Scientists identified three atmospheric phenomena orientations near the equator that increase US severe weather event probabilities three to four weeks later. Using machine learning, they found correlations between MJO fluctuations and U.S. severe weather weeks after the event.
Researchers at Northern Illinois University and NREL have developed a cost-effective Scotch-tape-like film that captures 99.9% of leaked lead from damaged perovskite solar cells. The film alleviates health and safety concerns without compromising performance or operation.
Researchers tested the 'Field of Dreams' hypothesis, finding plant diversity has limited effects on animal biodiversity. Management strategies, such as controlled burns and bison reintroduction, had stronger impacts on animal communities.
A new analysis identifies US states that make voting easiest and those that make it more challenging. States like Oregon, Washington, Utah, Illinois, and Maryland offer convenient options such as online registration, early voting, and mail-in voting.
A new study highlights the critical role of mangroves and coral reefs in protecting coastal communities from climate-related disasters. With over 8.5 million people benefiting directly from these natural defenses, conservation and restoration efforts are essential to address growing vulnerability across highly exposed regions.
A new study predicts a significant decrease in US snowstorms due to climate change, with a potential 28% reduction in frequency and size of snowstorms. The study suggests that winters will start later, end earlier, and experience fewer extreme snowfall events.
Scientists have developed a technique to sequester lead in perovskite solar cells, minimizing potential toxic leakage by applying lead-absorbing films to the front and back of the solar cell. The new approach has been shown to capture 96% of lead leakage under severe damage conditions.
A NIU psychology professor is studying the links between exercise and brain health in prairie voles. The researcher hopes to find how exercise can promote brain health and resilience to social stress that results in anxiety, depression and cardiovascular disease.
A team of scientists at Northern Illinois University successfully forecasted the nation's extensive tornado outbreak in late May 2019, three to four weeks before it occurred. The prediction used historical weather-pattern records and methodologies to predict severe weather across the continental United States with extended lead times.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that degraded rainforest habitats are having an unhealthy impact on at least one species of Madagascar's treasured lemurs. Despite moderate levels of habitat fragmentation and disturbance, some groups of sifakas showed substantial resilience to these changes.
The NIU FoodMASTER program uses food as a tool to teach mathematics and science, leading to increased student engagement and academic performance. The $930,000 NIH grant will expand the initiative to K-12 teachers and educators nationwide.
A new study reveals wide variations in voting ease among US states, impacting democracy and potentially affecting voter turnout. States like Oregon and Colorado rank high for ease of voting, while others like Mississippi face significant inconveniences.
A new study finds that US tornado frequency has increased in the Midwest and Southeast over the past four decades, closing the gap with traditional Tornado Alley. The trend is significant for understanding future tornado exposure and damage.
Scientists found that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) was smaller than it is today at some point between 14,500 and 9,000 years ago, but did not collapse. The loss of ice triggered uplift in the sea floor, leading to regrowth of the ice sheet.
A new study found that while ecosystems can bounce back from large-scale disturbances, complete recovery is elusive. Passive recovery, which involves halting damaging practices, may be a more effective strategy than active restoration, especially for systems that don't require significant added help.
A new study from Northern Illinois University predicts hailstorm likelihood with high accuracy, identifying a strong relationship between jet stream patterns and U.S. hail frequency.
A new study reveals nearly 500 finger and toe bones belonging to tiny early primates, some as small as a mustard seed, dating back 45 million years. The fossils, representing nine different taxonomic families of primates, provide evidence that early anthropoids were minuscule creatures.
Scientists have found evidence that the soil microbiome in restored Illinois prairies is recolonizing and recovering, closely resembling those in untouched natural prairies. This discovery suggests that restoration efforts are working at a foundational level, contributing to the health of people and the planet.
Researchers at Northern Illinois University found a significant correlation between bullying and whining in teams, negatively affecting group dynamics. The 'poor-pitiful-me' routine can disrupt decision-making groups, while both behaviors should be considered aggressive tactics that can derail meetings and lead to suboptimal decisions.
A new study published in Nature Communications estimates that the ancient network of valleys on Mars required at least 10 times more water than previously thought to carve out. The research suggests that Mars once had a warmer climate and active hydrologic cycle, with an ocean playing a key role in shaping the planet's landscape.
Scientists found strong evidence for geographic variation in six of nine life-history variables, including body size and litter sizes. The study suggests a one-size-fits-all conservation strategy is not appropriate, and assessments should account for geography to aid Eastern Massasauga recovery efforts.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and Northern Illinois University have created a new material, 'rewritable magnetic charge ice,' that allows for unprecedented control over local magnetic fields. This breakthrough could pave the way for new computing technologies with denser storage capabilities and added functionality.
A global study found that invasive mammal eradications on islands result in substantial conservation gains, benefiting 596 native species populations. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of this simple and cost-effective conservation intervention.
A nearly complete, articulated skeleton of a new tiny, tree-dwelling primate has been discovered in China, dating back 55 million years. The fossil, named Archicebus achilles, is one of the most primitive primate fossils ever documented and provides valuable insights into the evolution of primates.
Researchers found that Americans' hostility to the income tax is rooted in moral beliefs about hard work and personal autonomy. Interview respondents associated taxes with a loss of control over their time and work, viewing a flat tax on consumption as an improvement.
Researchers at Northern Illinois University have discovered a simple method for producing high-yield graphene using a new process that converts carbon dioxide into few-layer graphene. The technique is cost-effective and green, offering a promising alternative to existing methods.
A new study reveals a more extensive valley network on Mars, indicating the presence of an ancient ocean. The findings suggest that rainfall and precipitation played a major role in shaping the Martian landscape.
High school girls are bored, disengaged and stressed in science classes compared to boys. Class discussions are the only activity to score among the top three most engaging for both boys and girls. The researchers found that classroom discussions are a crucial way to connect with all science students.
Researchers discovered that adolescent tyrannosaurs, including the late juvenile T. rex Jane, engaged in intense combat, as evidenced by puncture wounds on her face. The injuries suggest that Jane was attacked by a fellow young dinosaur, possibly over dominance or territorial disputes.