MU RESEARCH NEWS
The Food and Drug Administration shifted its stance on bisphenol A (BPA) and said that exposure to the chemical is of “some concern” for infants and children. Previously, the agency’s stance was the chemical posed no risk to humans; this stance was consistent with the chemical industry’s stance. Today, FDA officials declared that more research was needed and suggested reasonable steps to reduce exposure to BPA. Frederick vom Saal, a University of Missouri scientist, says that this stance is a step forward but more steps need to be taken. Read Story »
For about a million active people in the United States every year, tearing the meniscus in their knee can mean the end of participation in the activities they enjoy. For NFL football players, it can mean the end of their careers if not diagnosed and treated efficiently and effectively. Currently, diagnosing meniscal problems most often involves a combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy done days to weeks after injury – this process is time-consuming, expensive and invasive. Now, University of Missouri researchers are working on developing a technique for “on-the-field” diagnosis of meniscal tears. Read Story »
Neuroscience research can contribute to helpful treatment and detection for many widespread neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, autism and schizophrenia. Now, a new Brain Imaging Center at the University of Missouri offers state-of-the-art technology to advance studies in several scientific fields. Recently, the MU Department of Psychological Sciences in the College of Arts and Science celebrated the dedication of this center that is unique in mid-Missouri. Read Story »
Pairing a new approach to prepare ancient DNA with a new scientific technique developed specifically to genotype a cow, an MU animal scientist, along with a team of international researchers, created a very accurate and widespread “family tree” for cows and other ruminants, going back as far as 29 million years. This genetic information could allow scientists to understand the evolution of cattle, ruminants and other animals. This same technique also could be used to verify ancient relatives to humans, help farmers develop healthier and more efficient cattle, and assist scientists who are studying human diseases, according to the research, which is being published in this week’s edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). Read Story »
Batteries can power anything from small sensors to large systems. While scientists are finding ways to make them smaller but even more powerful, problems can arise when these batteries are much larger and heavier than the devices themselves. University of Missouri researchers are developing a nuclear energy source that is smaller, lighter and more efficient. Read Story »
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