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Northwestern University


Political beliefs shape whether we notice social inequality

A new study from Northwestern University found that individuals' ideological beliefs about equality significantly impact their perception of social inequality. Egalitarians are more likely to notice disparities affecting disadvantaged groups, while anti-egalitarians are more tolerant of inequality between groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2021

Making plastics production more energy efficient

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method for producing propylene, a key component of plastics, that uses less energy. The technique, which involves the use of two catalysts, produces yields up to 30% higher than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for more energy-efficient plastics production.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 22, 2021

Pain hides in our data

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to mine physiological data from patients with chronic pain, detecting changes in pain levels and atypical fluctuations. The study aims to provide a more precise treatment method by supplementing subjective pain assessments with objective data-driven approaches.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Why odors trigger powerful memories

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a neural basis for how odors elicit powerful memories, with the olfactory areas connecting directly to the hippocampus. The study suggests that the sense of smell retains direct access to the hippocampus, unlike other senses like vision and hearing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProgress in Neurobiology·DateMar 8, 2021

Could catnip become the new DEET?

Researchers have discovered that catnip's active ingredient, Nepetalactone, activates the mosquito irritant receptor TRPA1, making it an effective repellent. This finding has significant implications for developing new, plant-based insect repellents.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 4, 2021

Peanut allergy affects even more U.S. adults than children

A new Northwestern University study found 2.9% of US adults have a current peanut allergy, with approximately one in five experiencing severe reactions each year. The study also revealed that patients who developed their peanut allergy after age 18 are less likely to report having an epinephrine auto-injector prescription.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 9, 2021

Shelf-stable vaccines avoid waste, expand access

Researchers developed a new manufacturing platform using freeze-dried components that can quickly make vaccines on demand. The platform eliminates the need for complex supply chains and refrigeration, making it ideal for low-resource settings. This innovation has the potential to expand access to life-saving medications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateFeb 3, 2021

Researchers design next-generation photodetector

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new approach to quantum device design, producing the first gain-based long-wavelength infrared photodetector using band structure engineering. The advanced photodetector offers enhanced sensitivity for next-generation LWIR photodetectors and focal plane array imagers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 2, 2021

Your toothbrush reflects you, not your toilet

A Northwestern University study found that bacteria on used toothbrushes reflect microbial communities in the mouth and skin, not the toilet. The research, published in Microbiome journal, suggests that microbes from the human body are transferred to toothbrushes through saliva and other bodily fluids.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMicrobiome·DateFeb 1, 2021

Cholesterol starvation kills lymphoma cells

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel therapy that uses synthetic nanoparticles to trigger the destruction of lymphoma cells by depriving them of cholesterol. This approach has potential for targeting other cancers with an appetite for cholesterol, such as kidney and ovarian cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2021

Deep sleep takes out the trash

A Northwestern University study finds that deep sleep has an ancient power to clear waste from the brain, including toxic proteins that may lead to neurodegenerative disease. This waste clearance process is substantially enhanced during deep sleep.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 20, 2021