Tag Research
Mouse genome sequences reveal variability, complex evolutionary history
September 15, 2011The genome of even a single organism is packed with information. A new paper, building on recent advances in sequencing capability, now reports the complete genomes of 17 different strains of mice, creating an unparalleled genetic resource that will aid studies ranging from human disease to evolution.
Interim chancellor’s memo to lawmakers regarding proposed fetal tissue ban
September 14, 2011Here is the text of a memo sent by UW–Madison Interim Chancellor David Ward to all members of the state Legislature regarding a bill that would ban the acquisition and use of fetal tissue in scientific research.
Study: Wisconsinites have mixed views on ethanol
September 12, 2011A majority of Wisconsinites support the use of ethanol blends if it keeps dollars and jobs in the United States and reduces air pollution, according to a new study by University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers.
Study reveals critical similarity between two types of do-it-all stem cells
September 11, 2011Ever since human induced pluripotent stem cells were first derived in 2007, scientists have wondered whether they were functionally equivalent to embryonic stem cells, which are sourced in early stage embryos.
NSF renews, expands mission of UW–Madison materials research center
September 9, 2011With $18 million over six years, the National Science Foundation is expanding the mission of one of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s most prolific and prestigious interdisciplinary research centers.
Parents’ stress leaves mark on the DNA of children
August 30, 2011Parents who are stressed during their children's early years can leave an imprint on their sons' or daughters' genes - an imprint that lasts into adolescence and may affect how these genes are expressed later in life, according to a study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin and the University of British Columbia.
In cell culture, like real estate, the neighborhood matters
August 28, 2011Ever since scientists first began growing human cells in lab dishes in 1952, they have focused on improving the chemical soup that feeds the cells and helps regulate their growth. But surfaces also matter, says Laura Kiessling, a professor of chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, who observes that living cells are normally in contact with each other and with a structure called the extracellular matrix, not just with the dissolved chemicals in their surroundings.
New study will explore impact of exercise on pulmonary hypertension
August 26, 2011For sufferers of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), maintaining healthy heart function isn't as simple as going for a jog every morning. Patients need to do all they can to slow damage to their heart, and exercise can improve potentially improve their quality of life.
Irrigation’s impacts on global carbon uptake
August 25, 2011Globally, irrigation increases agricultural productivity by an amount roughly equivalent to the entire agricultural output of the U.S., according to a new University of Wisconsin–Madison study.
Human gait could soon power portable electronics
August 23, 2011If the vision of Tom Krupenkin and J. Ashley Taylor comes to fruition, one day soon your cellphone - or just about any other portable electronic device - could be powered by simply taking a walk.
Poverty and national parks: Decade-long study finds surprising relationship
August 22, 2011If so many poor people live around national parks in developing countries, does that mean that these parks are contributing to their poverty? Yes, according to the conventional wisdom, but no, according to a 10-year study of people living around Kibale National Park in Uganda that was published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
500 years ago, yeast’s epic journey gave rise to lager beer
August 22, 2011In the 15th century, when Europeans first began moving people and goods across the Atlantic, a microscopic stowaway somehow made its way to the caves and monasteries of Bavaria.
Sweet insight: Discovery could speed drug development
August 21, 2011The surface of cells and many biologically active molecules are studded with sugar structures that are not used to store energy, but rather are involved in communication, immunity and inflammation. In a similar manner, sugars attached to drugs can enhance, change or neutralize their effects, says Jon Thorson, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Pharmacy.
UW-Madison expert: Cancer rates show it’s time for a global asbestos ban
August 18, 2011The use of asbestos building materials in developing countries results in millions of preventable cancer cases, a University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health epidemiologist reports in the coming issue of Annals of Epidemiology.
Climate change could drive native fish out of Wisconsin waters
August 16, 2011The cisco, a key forage fish found in Wisconsin's deepest and coldest bodies of water, could become a climate change casualty and disappear from most of the Wisconsin lakes it now inhabits by the year 2100, according to a new study.
Surgeon to be next UW–Madison vet research dean
August 15, 2011Longtime professor Dale Bjorling has been named associate dean for research and graduate training at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.
DOE awards UW–Madison spinoff $1.5 million for dual-fuel engine optimization
August 15, 2011A spinoff company created by two University of Wisconsin–Madison Engine Research Center (ERC) faculty members was awarded $1.5 million from the US Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Wednesday.
New neutrino detection experiment in China up and running
August 15, 2011Deep under a hillside near Hong Kong, a pair of new antineutrino detectors are warming up for some serious physics.
Expert available to media on flexible electronics
August 11, 2011A new development in the field of flexible electronics could allow hospitals to monitor patient vital signs without bulky cables or uncomfortable electrodes. In a paper published in the online edition of Science, a team at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign reports developing a new electronic "skin" that can cling to the body and detect physiological data such as heart rate or blood pressure.