University of Illinois food scientists create water-resistant, plastic-like containers using zein and fatty acids, which can be naturally decomposed. The new process produces biodegradable plastics from corn gluten meal, addressing the global demand for eco-friendly packaging materials.
Researchers analyzed obsidian blades from workshops in Mexico, finding that the number and type of mistakes made can indicate a craftsman's level of skill. By ranking workshops according to their aggregate skill, archaeologists can better understand the economic complexity of ancient societies.
Researchers have developed methods to improve efficiency and stability of amorphous silicon solar cells, enabling mass production. Stacking solar cells on panels has increased conversion of sunlight to power, with efficiencies reaching over 14 percent.
Studies found that certain oligosaccharides in fruits and vegetables can enhance digestion, increase beneficial bacteria, and prevent bowel disease. Researchers suggest these compounds may serve as a substitute for dietary fiber, offering potential health benefits without the need for high-fiber diets.
The discovery of an ancient Peruvian obsidian quarry provides evidence for long-distance trade in the Americas as far back as 2,500 B.C. The quarry, found by University of Wisconsin-Madison geographer Sarah Osgood Brooks, contains nearly 75% of artifacts identified as coming from a single source.
The University of Illinois is using satellites and sensors to monitor crop yields, soil moisture, and pest infestations. This technology aims to improve agricultural efficiency while reducing chemical runoff and soil erosion, benefiting the environment.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers presents compelling evidence of global warming in the tropics and subtropics, with melting ice caps and rising temperatures in alpine regions. The findings suggest that these areas will face significant challenges due to water stress and population growth.
Researchers at Stanford University propose using tiny jet turbines to create a system that prevents aircraft wings from stalling. This approach uses massively parallel mechanical systems, enabling the creation of large numbers of small devices for improved power density and reliability.
A recent study by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) found that women using N-9 film with condoms had an overall rate of HIV transmission of 6.7%, significantly lower than previously estimated rates in this population.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a simple and inexpensive process to equalize charge in rechargeable batteries, doubling their life. The technique uses capacitors and transistorized switching networks to shift charge among adjacent cells, balancing overall battery performance.
Researchers found exercise had a significant impact on anxiety levels compared to sitting still, contradicting the notion that distractions can reduce stress. The study involved 34 college students who exercised in various settings and reported lower anxiety after exercise, with a peak at 15 minutes post-exercise.
A recent analysis suggests that developed countries will win while underdeveloped countries lose $82 billion and $40 billion annually respectively due to global climate change. Countries such as Canada, the US, and China are expected to benefit from a shift in climate conditions.
A new ultrasound technique has been developed to improve food inspection by spotting defects as small as 10 microns in size, which is one-fifth the diameter of a human hair. The technology allows for the non-destructive detection of voids, air, water, or protein strands in plastic-sealed containers.
The NICHD study found that high-quality child care in the first three years of life is positively related to early cognitive and language development. Children in center care with positive caregiver-child interaction performed better on cognitive and language measures.
A study comparing cephalopod and gastropod nervous systems reveals that cephalopods have more rapid-acting electrical firing systems, enabling their high-speed swimming behavior. The key element of the findings involves sodium channels in motor neurons used for jet-propelled swimming.
Resources for the Future (RFF) is studying the economic implications and commercial possibilities of satellite remote sensing. The research aims to find a reliable way to measure the value of NASA's technology transfer to the public and private sectors.
Researchers have successfully demonstrated intersubband stimulated emission in an actual device structure, showing the potential for a tunable, mid-infrared solid-state laser. The new design is simpler and more efficient than previous concepts, with the ability to be tuned to specific wavelengths.
A promising hepatitis-based gene therapy has been developed to target and eliminate liver cancer cells. The treatment, created by a team of physicians, recruits the body's immune system to attack and wipe out cancerous tumors.