Spent nuclear fuel is anything but waste
The US lags behind other countries in nuclear fuel recycling due to unfounded concerns and myths. Reprocessing spent fuel can recover significant energy value and reduce high-level nuclear waste volume.
University of Texas at Austin
'Universal standards' for research integrity may have unintended consequences
Physicist Raymond Orbach criticizes the Singapore Statement on Research Integrity for its 'top-down' approach, which could lead to personal rights and responsibilities being misinvaded. He argues that the scientific community can police itself and notes the importance of context in evaluating research.
Men more likely to stick with girlfriends who sleep with other women than other men
A recent study from the University of Texas at Austin found that men are more than twice as likely to continue dating a girlfriend who has cheated on them with another woman. In contrast, women show the opposite pattern and are more likely to stay in relationships following a man's infidelity. The researchers suggest that this disparit...
Fluorescent color of coral larvae predicts whether they'll settle or swim
Researchers found that coral larvae with redder fluorescence are less likely to settle into polyps, while greener larvae tend to disperse. This discovery could help monitor corals' adaptation to global warming.
Distance may be key in successful negotiations, new study shows
Research from the University of Texas at Austin found that physical distance between people during negotiations can lead to better outcomes. Negotiators who were far apart scored higher on efficiency ratings than those who were nearby, but this advantage decreased when participants were focused on their high-level motives.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJan 18, 2011
Being poor can suppress children's genetic potentials
Research found that children from poorer families show almost no improvements in cognitive ability driven by their genes, while wealthier children have more opportunities to reach their potential. The study's findings suggest that environmental factors can help children begin to reach their genetic potentials at a younger age.
Sleepless honey bees miscommunicate, too, research at the University of Texas at Austin shows
Research at the University of Texas at Austin shows that sleep-deprived honey bees experience communication problems, advertising food sites less precisely to their fellow bees. This impairment in precision could lead to a less competitive colony and reduced efficiency in locating food.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2010
Plants 'remember' winter to bloom in spring with help of special molecule
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a long, non-coding RNA molecule, COLDAIR, that helps plants remember winter and bloom in spring. This process, known as vernalization, allows plants to recognize longer periods of cold and adjust their flowering schedules accordingly.
Declining energy quality could be root cause of current recession
A decade-long decline in the nation's energy supply quality may be the root cause of the current economic recession. The Energy Intensity Ratio (EIR) measures how much profit consumers get from their energy, and its decline is correlated with economic downturns.
Scientists reveal criminal virus spreaders using evolutionary forensics
Researchers used phylogenetic analysis to pinpoint the source of HIV infections in two separate cases, revealing that defendants knowingly spread the virus to multiple partners. The study demonstrates the potential for evolutionary forensics to exonerate falsely accused and convict those responsible.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2010
Insulin sensitivity may explain link between obesity, memory problems
A new study found that obese individuals exhibit lower functional brain response in one region and impaired insulin sensitivity compared to normal-weight peers. This suggests a potential link between midlife obesity and cognitive decline later on.
Tsunami risk higher in Los Angeles, other major cities
Research finds that tsunamis can be triggered by moderate earthquakes on strike-slip faults, posing a significant threat to coastal cities. In Haiti's case, three-quarters of tsunamis are generated by submarine landslides, unlike the previously estimated 3% globally.
New fossil suggests dinosaurs not so fierce after all
A new species of dinosaur, Sarahsaurus, discovered in Arizona suggests that dinosaurs did not spread globally by overpowering other species but instead took advantage of a natural catastrophe. The fossil, which lived around 190 million years ago, shows that sauropodomorphs started out small and later evolved to large size.
What mimicking one's language style may mean about the relationship
A study by University of Texas at Austin psychologists found that people match each other's language styles more during happier periods of their relationship. Style-matching scores were calculated between poetry written by two pairs of spouses, revealing changes in relationships over time.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 4, 2010
Fossilized giant penguin reveals unusual colors, sheds light on bird evolution
A 36-million-year-old fossil reveals that ancient penguins had reddish-brown and grey feathers, distinct from the black tuxedoed look of living penguins. This discovery provides insights into the early evolution of penguin feathers, coloration, and flipper shapes.
Placebo effect significantly improves women's sexual satisfaction, study shows
A recent study found that opening a new line of communication about sex can have a positive effect on many women with low libidos. Fifty women were given a placebo instead of a drug treatment for low sexual arousal, and on average, one in three showed an overall improvement.
Electron switch between molecules points way to new high-powered organic batteries
Chemists at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a new way to pass electrons between molecules, leading to the development of high-powered organic batteries. The system could be used to create artificial photosynthesis and store more energy than conventional batteries.
Improving cotton the goal of $3.8 million grant to University of Texas at Austin plant geneticist
Dr. Chen and colleagues aim to understand fiber cell development and identify genes important for cotton fiber production, with potential applications to biofuels and sustainable textiles.
People learn new information more effectively when brain activity is consistent, research shows
Researchers found that people retain memories more effectively when their brain activity is similar each time they study the same information. This challenges the long-held belief that variable contexts enhance memory retention. The findings provide new insights into effective studying and cognitive processing.
Health IT program at the University of Texas at Austin receives $2.7 million in federal funding
The University of Texas at Austin's Health Information Technology program has received $2.7 million in federal funding to support its launch. The program graduated its first class of 54 students this summer, and the university will establish four programs in health information technology with the new funding.
Home foreclosure symptom, not cause for increased crime rates, research shows
A new study by researchers David Kirk and Derek S. Hyra found that foreclosures do not independently lead to increased crime rates in communities. The study suggests that both foreclosures and crime are products of similar community-level factors, including poverty, segregation, and political clout.
'Fused' people eager to die and kill for their group, research shows
A new psychology study found that individuals with strong ties to their groups are willing to sacrifice themselves to save fellow compatriots. The study, published in Psychological Science, showed that 75% of 'fused' respondents would jump to their deaths to save five group members.
Research of cell movements in developing frogs reveals new twists in human genetic disease
Researchers discovered that mutations in the 'Fritz' gene can cause cell movement problems and cilia malfunctions, leading to conditions such as mental retardation, obesity, and blindness. The findings shed light on mechanisms regulating cellular machinery during embryonic development and its link to human disease.
Geoscientists find clues to why first Sumatran earthquake was deadlier than second
Geologists found a lower density fault zone in the 2004 Sumatra earthquake, allowing it to slip over a longer segment and reach closer to the seafloor, generating larger tsunami waves. The study's findings could help improve hazard assessment and mitigation for this region.
Ticking biological clock increases women's libido, new research shows
New research reveals that women's libido increases as they age due to declining fertility, leading to more adventurous sexual behavior. Women aged 27-45 experience a heightened sex drive and are more willing to engage in casual sex.
University receives $19 million to monitor carbon storage project
The University of Texas at Austin will design and oversee a monitoring plan for a carbon capture and storage demonstration project in southeast Texas. The project aims to reduce emissions of CO2 from a coal-fired power plant and demonstrate advanced technology for enhanced oil recovery.
Highly efficient solar cells could result from quantum dot research
Scientists have discovered a method to capture higher energy sunlight lost as heat in conventional solar cells, potentially increasing efficiency to over 66%. Quantum dots made of lead selenide have been found to transfer hot electrons to an electron conductor, enabling the capture of this energy.
Adolescent brains biologically wired to engage in risky behavior, study finds
New research from a University of Texas at Austin psychologist identifies biological motivations behind adolescent risk-taking behavior. The study found that teenagers' brains are overactive in the mesolimbic dopamine system, driving them to seek rewards and engage in risky behaviors.
Planetary scientists solve 40-year-old mysteries of Mars' northern ice cap
Researchers have reconstructed the formation of two curious features in Mars' northern ice cap, including Chasma Boreale and spiral troughs, revealing that wind shapes polar ice caps over millions of years. The study provides new evidence of climate change on Mars and vindicates an early explanation for the spiral troughs.
Physicists prove Einstein wrong with observation of instantaneous velocity in Brownian particles
Researchers have directly observed the instantaneous velocity of tiny Brownian particles, contradicting Einstein's long-held prediction. This breakthrough uses optical tweezers to trap and measure glass beads suspended in air, validating the equipartition theorem.
Researchers get $3.3 million grant to investigate language outcomes of bilingual children
A new study will examine speech and language development in bilingual children to identify patterns of language use in those with and without delays. The researchers aim to develop more accurate measurements of language ability, leading to improved interventions for children with language impairment.
Convenience drives US women to buy over-the-counter contraception in Mexico, study finds
Researchers found that US women living along the US-Mexico border prefer buying over-the-counter oral contraceptives from Mexican pharmacies due to their convenience and affordability. The study also showed that older women and those born in Mexico were more likely to take advantage of this option.
Philosopher brings human values to environmental decisions
Sahotra Sarkar, a philosopher at the University of Texas at Austin, is working with Conservation International and energy companies to develop environmentally conscious development plans. His approach prioritizes local values and biodiversity protection, rejecting the 'fortress model' of preservation.
Scientists find new genes for cancer, other diseases in plants, yeast and worms
Researchers found genes in yeast that help form veins and arteries in humans, while also fixing cell walls in response to stress. They identified eight genes that contribute to blood vessel formation in animals and several of these genes are also linked to human breast cancer.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2010
Texas mathematician John Tate wins Abel Prize, highest distinction in mathematics internationally
John Tate has made significant contributions to the field of algebraic number theory and arithmetic geometry. His work has resulted in the creation of fundamental concepts and the development of lasting impact on modern mathematics.
Experts reaffirm asteroid impact caused mass extinction
The asteroid impact hypothesis has gained overwhelming acceptance within the scientific community, and new evidence from ocean drilling and continental sites confirms its validity. The Chicxulub impact in Mexico is believed to have caused an abrupt and major decrease in productivity and species diversity at the K-Pg boundary.
Dinosaurs might be older than previously thought
The discovery of Asilisaurus kongwe, a dinosaur-like animal, pushes back the age of known dinosaurs by 10 million years. Fossil evidence suggests that silesaurs, close relatives of dinosaurs, may have diverged from common ancestors by 240 million years ago.
Recently analyzed fossil was not human ancestor as claimed, anthropologists say
A newly analyzed 47-million-year-old Darwinius fossil was found to not be a human ancestor, contrary to previous claims. The fossil is now believed to be a forebearer of modern-day lemurs and lorises, according to two papers published in the Journal of Human Evolution.
Rapid response science missions assess potential for another major Haiti earthquake
Scientists are conducting three expeditions to Haiti to assess the potential threat of more large earthquakes and understand which segments of the fault ruptured during the Jan. 12 quake. The expeditions aim to collect valuable geologic evidence and provide insights to prepare communities for future hazards.
Scientists identify Ecuador's Yasuni National Park as one of most biodiverse places on earth
Scientists have documented unprecedented biodiversity in Yasuní National Park, including 596 bird species, 150 amphibian species, and over 1,100 tree species. The park's extraordinary diversity is threatened by proposed oil development projects.
New meat-eating dinosaur alters evolutionary tree
The discovery of Tawa, a new meat-eating dinosaur, has resolved a long-standing debate about the evolutionary relationships between dinosaurs. The fossil remains reveal that Tawa shares characteristics with both theropod and non-theropod dinosaurs, confirming Herrerasaurus as a member of the theropod lineage.
Facebook profiles capture true personality, according to new psychology research
Research from University of Texas at Austin psychologist Sam Gosling finds that Facebook profiles accurately reflect users' actual personality characteristics, rather than idealized versions. This discovery challenges the assumption that people present a curated version of themselves online.
Sleep deprivation negatively affects split-second decision making, study shows
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that moderate sleep deprivation can lead to a decline in information-integration thought processes, critical for quick decisions. This affects individuals who shift from an automatic process to a more controlled approach, leading to negative effects on performance.
Caught in the act: Butterfly mate preference shows how 1 species can become 2
Researchers found a population of tropical butterflies exhibiting diverging color patterns and reproductive preferences, suggesting the potential emergence of two distinct species. The study provides insights into the earliest stage of ecological speciation, where natural selection drives the divergence of populations into new species.
Professor receives grant to develop more rapid technology for screening blood samples
Dr. Jennifer Brodbelt receives $734,068 NIH grant to develop chip-based method for rapidly analyzing blood samples. The new approach could identify patterns correlated with aging and obesity.
First impressions count when making personality judgments, new research shows
Researchers found that observers can accurately judge some major personality traits from full-body photographs, especially with naturally expressive behavior. Altering one's appearance can influence how others perceive their personality, according to the study's findings.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 3, 2009
Professors receive $4.6 million to study impact of climate change on potential biofuel source
Scientists will study switchgrass varieties under drought conditions to improve forecasts on productivity and identify genetic mechanisms of drought tolerance. The research aims to develop models predicting how climate change affects switchgrass production in North America.
West Antarctic ice sheet may not be losing ice as fast as once thought
Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin and other institutions have made new ground measurements that suggest the West Antarctic ice sheet is losing ice slightly more slowly than estimated. The findings could improve estimates of ice mass loss and provide a clearer picture of Antarctica's contribution to rising sea levels.
Discovery of enzyme structure points way to creating less toxic anti-HIV drugs
Scientists have discovered the atomic structure of an enzyme responsible for DNA replication in human mitochondria, which can cause harmful drug side effects. By targeting a different region of the enzyme, researchers aim to design more selective and less toxic anti-HIV drugs.
Global seed banking milestone celebrated by wildflower center, 122 other organizations
A decade-long effort by international partners has resulted in the collection and freezing of thousands of seeds from nearly 25,000 native plant species. The Millennium Seed Bank project aims to conserve an additional 15% of world's plant species by 2020.