Microwave ovens produce radio-frequency waves that cause the water molecules in an object to vibrate. This vibration causes friction, which allows the object to heat up to a temperature that can kill germs.

That's why microwaves are sometimes used to disinfect items such as a household sponge, as they are a hotbed for viruses and bacteria.

However, research has found mixed results on whether a microwave can effectively kill germs on a sponge, or even in food. Here's what you need to know.

The Ohio State University College of Nursing Associate Professor Timothy Landers, Phd, RN, CNP, CIC, FAAN, is currently the featured nurse leader on the American Academy of Nursing Website. Landers, a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, was recently awarded a Fulbright U.S.

Tim Landers, PhD, RN, CNP, CIC, associate professor in the College of Nursing, is the recipient of a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Grant by the U.S. Department of State. Landers will be affiliated with the University of Gondar in Gondar, Ethiopia, from August 2017–May 2018.

Tim Landers, PhD, RN, CNP, CIC, associate professor at The Ohio State University College of Nursing and chair of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) Research Committee is co-author of the article, “APIC MegaSurvey: Methodology and overview,” recently published in

Timothy F. Landers, PhD, CNP, assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Nursing, is one of just 12 outstanding nursing educators to win a competitive grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Nurse Faculty Scholars program this year. Landers will receive a three-year, $350,000 award to promote his academic career and support his research.