Researchers at UW-Madison have created a novel glass that is stronger and more stable than traditional glass using a new glass-making technique. The new glass has potential medical applications, including the development of pharmaceutical compounds previously unusable due to instability.
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers discovered novel functions of the Sen1 protein, which acts as a master regulatory switch in yeast. This discovery may help understand human neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and movement disorders.
A study by UW-Madison researchers found that the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) is essential for blocking interference in memory, which can lead to confusion. The technique of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) allowed them to temporarily disrupt the IFG and demonstrate its crucial role in controlling memory operations.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison team developed a map that incorporates environmental and human factors to pinpoint areas most vulnerable to devastating wildfires. The map highlights the critical role humans play in causing fires, particularly near wildland-urban interfaces.
Researchers have identified key genetic changes required for the H5N1 avian influenza virus to adapt to easily recognize human receptors. The study provides a molecular blueprint for these changes, which could help detect pandemic strains earlier and prepare public health officials and vaccine manufacturers.
A team of researchers identified a protein, Lck, that plays a crucial role in stimulating immune cells to recall past encounters with pathogens, enabling quick responses to reinfection. This discovery may aid in the development of vaccines against diseases like AIDS and autoimmune disorders.
Researchers at UW-Madison discover 2-deoxy-glucose blocks epileptic seizures in lab rats, a potential cure for up to half of all epileptic patients. The compound works by clogging cellular enzymes, allowing the body to use alternative energy sources.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found a link between dust storms and hurricane frequency in Atlantic, suggesting that dust may help suppress brewing hurricanes. The study suggests that long-term changes in hurricanes may be related to multiple factors.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a novel peptide that effectively blocks influenza viruses, including deadly avian influenza, from entering host cells. The new finding offers a potential tool for preventing and treating influenza, which is losing its potency due to evolution.
A new study suggests that earlier corn plantings in the US Corn Belt may lead to a decrease in crop yields in the future. Farmers have been planting seeds around two weeks earlier than they did 30 years ago, but this trend may not be sustainable due to seasonal limitations.
A failed experiment by University of Wisconsin-Madison bacteriologist Marcin Filutowicz led to the creation of a new biocontrol agent that destroys bacterial pathogens without triggering antibiotic resistance. The discovery has started a promising biotechnology firm, creating high-paying jobs for Wisconsin.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a new compound that inhibits angiogenesis, a process essential for tumor growth. The compound, called NK-B, works by preventing the production of vascular endothelial growth factor and reducing receptor molecules that respond to VEGF.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is leading a five-year, $30 million program to operate and expand the Open Science Grid, tapping into thousands of processors distributed across more than 30 universities and federal research laboratories. The project aims to lower the barrier to individual scientists using advanced computing.
A new study reveals that the world's most widely used organic insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis, requires the assistance of other microbes to perform its lethal work. The research demonstrates that the bacterium needs the presence of other bacteria in the insect gut to exert its influence.
A new generation of cartographers is emerging, thanks to innovative software programs that simplify map-making tasks. Dr. Mark Harrower's tools, such as Color Brewer and Map Shaper, empower users to create accurate and visually appealing maps, bridging the gap between scientific validity and artistic expression.
Researchers at UW-Madison have developed DNA-coated stents that release gene-based therapy to prevent restenosis, a common problem with metal stents. Additionally, they've created microwell arrays to grow undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells with defined sizes and shapes.
A viral target has been found to sustain EBV-related tumors, and blocking its activity breaks the virus life cycle. This discovery could lead to a drug that kills only EBV-positive tumor cells without harming other tissues.
Researchers found that anticipation can fire up two brain regions - amygdala and hippocampus - even before the event occurs, strengthening memories of disturbing events. This study has important implications for treating conditions like PTSD and social anxiety.
A team of Wisconsin scientists has found a simple process to expand on nature's chemical creativity, making critical anticancer agents and antibiotics. The discovery opens the door to a variety of new opportunities in the natural product drug arena.
The Wisconsin Emerging Scholars in Computer Science (WES-CS) program at UW-Madison is working to increase diversity in the field by recruiting underrepresented groups of freshmen and implementing parallel team-learning techniques. The program has seen success with its 'First-Year Interest Group' and innovative 'Digital Divide' course, ...
A declaration by top scientists states that mercury pollution poses significant risks to human health, particularly for children and women of childbearing age. The declaration also highlights the need for reduced mercury use and emissions, as well as careful fish consumption to minimize exposure.
Researchers have uncovered a genetic 'snooze button' that regulates when plants bloom in the spring, allowing them to compete for resources. The study's findings offer hints at precise control over flowering, essential for agriculture and plant reproduction.
A new book explores how primary-care doctors interact with patients, focusing on both physician and patient contributions. The research aims to understand the social organization of medical talk and improve doctor-patient relationships.
Researchers at UW-Madison presented studies on the ineffectiveness of fish advisories, the role of sulfate-reducing bacteria in mercury contamination, and the long-term consequences of in utero exposure to methylmercury. The findings highlight the need for improved communication, funding, and media coverage to address these issues.
Researchers have developed autonomous liquid microlenses that can adapt their focal length without external control. These smart lenses use hydrogels responding to physical, chemical or biological stimuli to enable new sensing methods in lab-on-a-chip environments and medical diagnostics.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison suggest a double whammy of intensive trapping and predator fish manipulation may rid lakes of the invasive species, restoring ecosystem balance. The two-pronged attack has shown promising results in reducing rusty crayfish populations on Sparkling Lake.
A new MRI data-acquisition technique developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison enables clinics to image more patients with osteoarthritis-related knee problems in a shorter time. The technique delivers precise 3D images, allowing for better diagnosis and treatment options.
A study found that cancer patients who used information services and online support groups experienced improved learning outcomes. The analysis revealed that interactive services also predicted improved learning outcomes, while interacting with an online expert did not contribute to benefits.
A UW-Madison team has developed a new process to create thin-film semiconductors on flexible materials, enabling the creation of powerful, low-power electronic devices. The technique can be used to make wearable electronics, computer monitors that roll up like a window shade, and other applications for non-computer uses.
Researcher Joseph Newman challenges the loaded label of 'psychopath,' arguing it's applied too liberally without understanding key elements. His work suggests psychopathy is a learning disability that makes individuals oblivious to consequences, with significant implications for treatment and behavioral interventions.
A new process makes HMF from fructose, a compound used to make plastics, diesel-fuel additives, and diesel fuel. The method also offers environmental benefits by using carbon dioxide and modern solar energy that crop plants absorb.
A new study reveals that ADHD medications mainly affect the prefrontal cortex, a region linked to attention and decision-making. This finding could aid in developing more effective treatments.
Sirtuins have been implicated in the health benefits of calorie restriction, which is known to lengthen life span. The discovery reveals that sirtuins directly control specific metabolic enzymes called AceCSs, transforming them into a form that allows the body to utilize acetate as an energy source.
Scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison have made a fundamental discovery about RNA synthesis in E. coli, shedding light on how bacteria regulate gene expression. The study found that a specific region within DNA promoters makes contact with RNA polymerase, but not at promoters for genes involved in ribosomal RNA production.
Chemists have synthesized a new species of iron, designated as iron VI, which has two valence electrons and is highly reactive. This discovery adds to our understanding of fundamental iron chemistry and its catalytic properties, potentially leading to novel compounds for industry and biomedicine.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a new approach that tracks helium gas molecules in lungs to detect micro-structural changes in smokers. The technique has shown promise in identifying structural changes in asymptomatic smokers and may help screen for genetic predispositions to conditions like emphysema.
Researchers found that a single bout of overeating from supersizing a fast-food meal can result in significant hidden financial costs, including increased energy needs, medical care, and vehicle expenses. The study's findings suggest that these costs can outweigh the initial savings of upsizing a meal, making it a less affordable option.
Scientists at University of Wisconsin-Madison develop technique to time events at the atomic scale, enhancing understanding of material properties and enabling improved memory applications in microelectronics. The breakthrough uses X-rays from Argonne National Laboratory's Advanced Photon Source.
A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that a negative energy balance, induced by exercise and lower body weight, inhibits the growth of polyps in mice. The researchers also discovered that exercising mice had fewer polyps and less body fat compared to non-exercising mice.
Researchers found a gene in obese mice that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, which could lead to new drug targets and better diagnosis methods for humans. The study provides insight into how insulin-producing cells function and may help clinicians identify individuals at high risk of developing the disease.
A team of scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison has discovered a master molecular sensor embedded in spores of six related fungi that triggers their transformation into pathogenic yeasts. This finding could lead to new treatments and possibly vaccines for diseases caused by these microbes.
Researchers successfully removed up to 82,000 base pairs from E. coli's genome without compromising its functions, paving the way for more efficient production of useful proteins and drugs.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveal how evolution occurs at a fine level of detail, explaining molecular mechanisms behind animal adaptations. They show how fruit fly wing spots, which are driven by female preferences, can be gained and lost independently in different species.,
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that certain soil types serve as natural prion repositories, potentially contributing to CWD transmission. The study found that prions bind tightly to montmorillonite clay and remain infectious after boiling in a detergent solution.
Researchers develop a technique to fabricate flexible nanomembranes with tunable strain, retaining silicon's properties while controlling conductivity. The method enables the creation of faster electronics, novel photonic crystals, and lightweight sensors, with potential applications in flexible electronic devices and biological sensing.
A new study challenges the notion of an autism epidemic in the US, citing inconsistencies in special education data and diagnostic practices. Researchers argue that changes in how children are labeled as having special needs can lead to misleading trends and undermine efforts to accurately measure the scope of developmental disability.
Researchers argue that environmental pollution disproportionately affects minority groups, particularly African-American children in low-income families. The authors propose the creation and strict enforcement of effective public policies to address lead exposure and pesticide prevention.
A study published in Nature found that cells deep within the human respiratory system have surface molecules that allow the avian flu virus to enter and infect cells, but not easily transmit between humans. The discovery provides a possible explanation for why bird flu is rarely transmitted among humans.
A recent study published in Health Communication found that participation in computer-mediated support groups improved emotional well-being and reduced negative mood among breast cancer patients. The analysis of text messages revealed a higher percentage of insightful words associated with these benefits.
Scientists have nearly doubled the size of the IceCube detector under construction at the South Pole, adding 480 optical modules to the existing array. The detector will be capable of detecting high-energy cosmic neutrinos and shedding light on mysterious events like gamma ray bursts and dark matter.