A team of University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers successfully reprogrammed human skin cells into cells indistinguishable from embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough could revolutionize the field of stem cell biology and provide a new source of stem cells for medical research.
Researchers have discovered that chimpanzees in a savanna environment use bark and stick tools to exploit underground food resources, challenging the notion that this behavior is uniquely human. This finding supports the idea that chimpanzees can serve as models for understanding early human behaviors and adaptations.
A new study suggests that climate change will primarily impact the world's poor, who are least responsible for the problem, highlighting an ethical crisis. The research, led by Jonathan Patz, quantifies the relationship between carbon emissions and disease burden, revealing stark contrasts between developed and developing countries.
A recent study found that forest fires in boreal forests have a greater direct impact on carbon emissions than climate change. The researchers used a computer model to simulate the carbon balance of one million square kilometers of Canadian forest over the past 60 years, determining that fires are the primary driver of carbon emissions.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison study examines the global potential for biodiesel production from vegetable oils and animal fats, ranking countries by their ability to manufacture biodiesel at low cost. The top-ranked developing nations include Malaysia, Thailand, Uruguay, Colombia, and Ghana, which are well-positioned due to stron...
A team of researchers has demonstrated how a single gene in yeast divides and adapts to improve its environment, showcasing the driving force of natural selection. This study provides the most basic view of how organisms evolve to better adapt to their environments.
A team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison identified a single change in a viral protein that facilitates the H5N1 avian flu virus's ability to infect the upper respiratory system in mammals. This adaptation enables efficient transmission through coughing and sneezing, potentially setting the stage for a pandemic.
Researchers found that symptoms can improve with age, particularly in individuals who are not classified as having mental retardation. The study, which followed over 400 adolescents and adults with autism for five years, revealed significant improvements in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors.
University of Wisconsin-Madison engineers successfully blended modern semiconductor tech and nanomachines, opening doors to new tiny mechanical devices. The new work enables sensors capable of measuring single biological molecules and has implications for solar energy cells, battery technology, and highly sensitive light-emitting diodes.
New nonviral gene delivery systems utilizing transposons provide a safer alternative to viruses, with potential benefits for treating fatal conditions such as cancer. The technology has shown promise in achieving stable expression of genes in animal cells and minimizing insertional mutagenesis risk.
A new study reveals that the CRF2 hormone receptor system is involved in both feeding behavior and stress responses, suggesting it may not be an ideal target for obesity treatments. The researchers found that stimulating this receptor increased stress-like behaviors and reduced food intake, but not without inducing anxiety-like effects.
A study in primates suggests that infants and children carrying a specific gene variant may be more vulnerable to the effects of fetal alcohol exposure. The research identifies a potential genetic marker for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, which can help recognize susceptible individuals early on.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Institute for Clinical and Translational Research (ICTR) has received a $41 million NIH grant to build a network of partners across campus and around the state. This initiative aims to accelerate biomedical discoveries into practical healthcare applications, with a focus on community-based research...
Researchers at UW-Madison developed a novel enzyme that can decorate chemical molecules with natural sugars, altering their biological effects. The new enzyme has the potential to create a range of therapeutic agents for cancer treatment and infection prevention.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that Viagra significantly boosts the release of key reproductive hormone, offering potential new insights into male fertility and sexual health.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that people with clinical depression have abnormal brain activity in emotional control circuits. Consciously regulating emotions increased activity in prefrontal cortical areas, but didn't quell negative responses in depressed individuals.
Researchers have identified common attributes in viral replication machinery that could be vulnerable to disruption, potentially leading to broad-spectrum antiviral agents. A study on flock house virus reveals a new compartment for RNA synthesis, where the virus can collect components and carry out processes efficiently.
A team of scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has shown that stem cells engineered to secrete a key growth factor can protect motor neurons characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but not restore muscle connections. The study demonstrates promise for cell-based therapies in diseases with few treatment options.
The Wisconsin Longitudinal Study has tracked over 10,000 graduates since 1957, providing unprecedented insight into how young people's experiences shape their lives as they age. Researchers have used this data to inform public policies and practices, and the study continues to be a model for long-term federal studies.
Researchers studying fantasy baseball aim to comprehend expert and novice players' approaches, as well as their learning processes. They analyze three leagues with varying levels of expertise, gathering insights into player strategies, community connections, and the role of technology in gaming.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that soil particles can increase the infectious nature of rogue proteins causing CWD. Binding to common soil minerals like montmorillonite significantly increases oral transmissibility, with a nearly 700-fold difference observed.
Scientists have discovered that mother-of-pearl's unique mosaic architecture, with non-aligned crystals, may contribute to its exceptional strength by preventing the formation of natural cleavage planes. Researchers aim to model and reproduce this process to develop new biomimetic materials with improved mechanical properties.
Researchers at UW-Madison create a two-stage process to turn biomass-derived sugar into 2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF), a liquid fuel with improved energy density and reduced environmental impact. The new fuel address limitations of current renewable liquids like ethanol.
A study by Deborah Carr and Dmitry Khodyakov found that education, religious beliefs, and personal experiences with loss are key factors in seniors' decisions to appoint a healthcare proxy. Most people choose a spouse or child as their proxy, but there are also idiosyncratic responses among those outside traditional relationships.
Researchers are investigating the best time to start hormone therapy, its impact on cognition and mood, and the most beneficial form of estrogen. The $3.4 million KEEPS study aims to clarify the safety and effectiveness of hormone therapy in perimenopausal women.
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a powerful analytical tool capable of measuring molecular structures quickly and accurately, capturing intermediate steps of protein folding and revealing clues to type II diabetes. The technique uses two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy and has potential applications in...
Researchers found that three months of Vipassana meditation improved ability to detect a second target within the typical attentional blink window. Meditation reduced brain activity associated with seeing the first target, allowing more resources for the second target.
A randomized, double-blind controlled trial is being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of topical honey in healing diabetic ulcers. The study aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to antibiotics, which are often ineffective against drug-resistant bacteria.
Researchers have discovered a way to induce slow waves typical of deep sleep using transcranial magnetic stimulation, which could lead to treatments for insomnia and improve memory consolidation. The study suggests that artificial slow waves may reduce brain overload and energy consumption during sleep.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have devised a method to tackle antibiotic resistance, identifying four promising new compounds with preliminary antibacterial activity. The compounds show promise against MRSA and other Gram-positive bacteria, but further research is needed to understand their mechanism of action.
Scientists have identified a key gene, LaeA, that governs the mold's ability to produce toxic compounds. The discovery opens new avenues for treating Aspergillus fumigatus infection, which has a 60-90% mortality rate in immunocompromised individuals.
A groundbreaking study found that genetic background influences the extent of young mice's gregariousness, with more socially predisposed animals seeking social interaction. The researchers also identified associations between mouse vocalizations and the nature of their social interactions.
Researchers have discovered that neural progenitor cells derived from human fetal stem cells can protect the vision of animals with degenerative eye disease. The new findings suggest novel ways to preserve vision in humans with no effective treatments.
Blind and visually impaired students can engage with nanoscience through tactile models, bridging the gap between observation and experimentation. The 3D models are created from data generated by tools like SEM and AFM, allowing for a more immersive experience.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have created ultrathin films composed of DNA and water-soluble polymers that allow controlled release of DNA from surfaces. These films could be used to deliver genetic material for gene therapy, potentially treating conditions such as cardiovascular disease by preventing smooth muscle...
A new study predicts the disappearance of several existing climates by 2100 due to global warming, with novel climate zones emerging on up to 39% of the world's land surface area. The models also foresee significant impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity, highlighting the importance of understanding and coping with climate change.
Researchers developed a new tumor targeting strategy that leverages one of the body's natural antibodies and immune responses. The approach recognizes and kills only cancer cells displaying high levels of integrins, reducing the risk of harming healthy cells.
A new study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Center of Excellence in Cancer Communications Research found that accessing high-quality health information online can improve breast cancer patients' opinions about their doctors. The study also discovered a positive correlation between using online services and patient satisfaction...
The University of Wisconsin is conducting a clinical trial using adult stem cells to treat severe coronary artery disease. The study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of blood-derived selected stem cells in improving symptoms and clinical outcomes in patients with chronic myocardial ischemia.
A worldwide general warning is warranted due to the significant health risks posed by mercury-contaminated fish, particularly for children and women of childbearing age. The Madison Declaration on Mercury Pollution highlights the need for effective national and international policies to combat this global problem.
A collaborative research project has sequenced and assembled the complete genome of Pichia stipitis, a native xylose-fermenting yeast. This breakthrough will increase efficiency and economic viability in bioconversion by enabling simultaneous fermentation of glucose and xylose.
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that warmer temperatures contribute to increased hurricane intensity in the Atlantic Ocean. However, this trend does not hold up in other oceans, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers at UW-Madison crack long-standing problem of mock theta functions using Harmonic Maass Forms. The discovery is invaluable in resolving open questions in number theory and enables applications to physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that deaf children with two cochlear implants can more accurately localize sounds over time. The study, led by Ruth Litovsky, suggests that having two implants allows children to better integrate sound information from both ears in their brain.
Scientists have created a quick, inexpensive, and efficient method to extract single DNA molecules and position them in nanoscale troughs or 'slits' for easy analysis and sequencing. This technology promises faster and more efficient genome analysis, potentially leading to customized DNA profiles for patients.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison devise approach to 'see' extra dimensions by deciphering cosmic energy released in the universe's violent birth. The method provides evidence for testing string theory's existence and predicts specific shapes for the six hidden dimensions.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist has proven that composite materials can be stable even if one component is unstable, allowing for a wider range of properties and improved overall performance. This breakthrough could lead to materials with virtually limitless performance capabilities.
Researchers found that the 1918 flu virus triggers a deadly respiratory infection by attacking the lungs, leading to death. The study provides insight into how the virus killed so quickly and efficiently, offering potential clues for developing novel antiviral strategies.
A new study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that breast cancer patients who pray in online support groups experience lower levels of negative emotions and higher self-efficacy. The study analyzed message transcripts from 97 patients and discovered a positive correlation between prayer and improved mental well-being.
New research reveals how botulinum toxin attaches to nerve cells, using a similar strategy as locating an airport. The study identifies the exact spot where the toxin binds, allowing for potential anti-toxins and new treatments for paralysis and dystonias.