Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that cerium's electronic entropy is the underlying reason for its success in water-splitting technologies. Cerium's large entropy makes it ideal for hydrogen production, opening up possibilities for future work in creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly energy system.
Scientists used a novel gene editing technique to uncover the genetic basis of paraquat-induced Parkinson's disease. The study identified three genes - POR, ATP7A and SLC45A4 - that confer resistance to paraquat, suggesting these genes may be responsible for the toxicity.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a powerful RNA switch that can activate genes thousands of times better than nature, providing precise control over gene expression. This technology has potential applications in diagnostics, metabolic engineering, and regulating RNA networks.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a novel form of cancer therapy using RNA molecules that trigger self-destruction in cancer cells. The mechanism, called DISE, eliminates multiple genes required for cell survival, making cancer cells resistant to treatment.
A new study examining occupational licensing contradicts decades of research, finding that licensure may rigidify reward structures and enhance entry for historically disadvantaged groups. The study reveals that licenses do not limit competition or increase wages, but rather stagnate quality and widen wage inequality.
A Northwestern University research team found a conserved mechanism for nociception in planarian flatworms, fruit flies, and humans. The discovery could lead to new strategies for treating acute pain in humans by designing analgesic drugs targeting the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) receptor.
For the first time, scientists have detected the collision of two neutron stars using both gravitational waves and light. The historic discovery ushers in a new era in astronomy with multi-messenger astronomy, confirming theoretical predictions and providing new mysteries to understand.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that surface polarization in mixed media increases the attraction among rare earth elements. This finding could make rare earth recovery faster, easier, and less expensive. The study's results have implications for separating rare earths as well as other elements and nuclear waste removal.
Patients with bipolar disorder who received bright light therapy at midday experienced a higher remission rate of 68% compared to 22.2% on placebo, with significant reductions in depression scores and improvements in daily functioning.
Researchers have discovered a potential method to predict nearby strong earthquakes by analyzing deep tremors. The study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, found that changes in deep tremor patterns can signal an impending earthquake.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that the enzymatic function of the fly enzyme Trr may not be as crucial as previously thought, suggesting alternative explanations for its role in cancer development. The study found that knocking out Trr's catalytic activity did not affect flies' viability or gene expression.
Two Northwestern University studies uncover how egg cells use innovative strategies to detect and prevent division errors, leading to birth defects and miscarriages. The research identifies essential proteins for cell division and a backup process that ensures the correct number of chromosomes is received by the embryo.
A new code of ethical behavior for sharing plastic surgery videos on social media aims to curb vulgar content and prioritize patient safety. The guidelines, proposed by Northwestern Medicine authors, are based on four guiding principles of medical ethics and will be presented at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons annual meeting.
The Northwestern University Materials Research Science and Engineering Center has received a six-year, $15.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation to advance world-class materials research, education, and outreach. The center will support interdisciplinary research groups focusing on reconfigurable nanoelectronic materials...
Researchers found that Parkinson's disease may be caused by maladaptive brain rewiring in the subthalamic nucleus, leading to impaired movement. The study challenges the traditional understanding of brain dysfunction in Parkinson's disease.
A recent Northwestern University meta-analysis found striking stability in discrimination against African-Americans, despite a decline in Latino discrimination. Researchers analyzed data from field experiments of hiring between 1990 and 2015, finding that racial gaps in the labor force persist regardless of educational attainment.
Researchers have identified a toxic cascade in Parkinson's disease and found that treating dopamine neurons with antioxidants early on may prevent degeneration and improve neuron function. The study also highlights the importance of studying human neurons to develop new therapies.
Research reveals that prey use both speed of approach and proximity of predator to calculate best escape route, leading to a more nuanced understanding of self-preservation instincts. The study also sheds light on the neural mechanics that fuel this fundamental behavior in animals, including humans.
Researchers challenge traditional battery commercialization approach by incorporating lessons from the pharmaceutical industry. They propose a tailored proposal for entrepreneurs, investors, manufacturers, and policymakers to fuel battery innovation, including niche applications, strategic partnerships, targeted capital raises, and cus...
A Northwestern Medicine study reveals that many 'fragrance-free' and 'hypoallergenic' moisturizers contain allergens, making it difficult for patients to find affordable and safe options. The study found that only 12% of the top-selling moisturizers were free of common skin allergens.
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that DNA molecules move faster as they enter a nanopore and slower when exiting, due to buckling under compressive forces. This finding could inform the design of biosensors and have real-world applications in polymer properties measurement.
A biodegradable nanoparticle injection after a spinal cord injury prevents inflammation and scarring that inhibits repair. Mice with the treatment were able to walk better than those without, suggesting a potential new approach for human spinal cord injury treatment.
A Northwestern University study found that most Instagram providers marketing cosmetic surgery are not board-certified plastic surgeons, leading to patient harm and risk. Non-qualified providers include dentists, barbers, and hair salons, confusing patients and putting them at risk.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to track HIV infection by identifying individual viral particles associated with infection. The new method reveals that uncoating leading to infection occurs early in the cytoplasm, around 30 minutes after cell fusion.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a range of bioactive tissue papers made from materials derived from organs, which can potentially be used to support natural hormone production in young cancer patients and aid wound healing. The new biomaterials are thin, flexible, and pliable enough to fold into origami structures.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method that combines design and nanomanufacturing to create optimal nanostructured surfaces for solar cells. The technique uses mathematical functions and machine learning to fabricate quasi-random structures, resulting in increased light absorption and improved efficiency.
A team of astronomers has discovered a superluminous supernova in a spiral galaxy, which is rich in elements heavier than hydrogen and helium. This discovery challenges current ideas about the origin of such powerful explosions.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that up to half of the Milky Way's matter may have originated from distant galaxies through intergalactic transfer. This phenomenon, identified in simulations, shows that gas flows from smaller galaxies to larger ones, such as the Milky Way, forming stars.
New research from Northwestern University suggests that children who live in neighborhoods with high rates of violent crime struggle more in school due to sleep disruption and increased stress hormone cortisol. The study found that violent crimes alter sleep patterns, leading to a negative impact on academic performance.
A new model suggests that police should use confrontational tactics in areas with high gang violence to deter crime, while avoiding them in areas with low community trust. The model also highlights vast racial disparities in police stops and arrests.
Researchers visualize how fruit flies sense and process both temperature and humidity through their brains, revealing a 'sensory map' that helps them avoid hot and dry conditions. This discovery could inform strategies to prevent mosquito-borne diseases by targeting the mosquitoes' own humidity receptors.
A new Northwestern University study suggests that paying people to conserve their trees could be a highly cost-effective way to reduce deforestation and carbon emissions. The program, known as Payments for Ecosystems, was found to have large impacts on forest cover in western Uganda.
Researchers used a new, non-destructive technology to access medieval texts hidden inside ancient bookbindings. By fusing visible hyperspectral and X-ray fluorescence imaging, they discovered sixth-century Roman Law code written in marginal comments.
Researchers found that thyroxine and metformin can repair memory and learning deficits caused by fetal alcohol exposure when given after birth. The study provides potential treatment for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
A study by Northwestern University researchers found that the concentration of ultrafine particles less than 50 nanometers in diameter rose when drivers switched from ethanol to gasoline, but decreased when they switched back. This shift had a significant impact on air quality, with potential health benefits
A new sub-population of immune cells plays a key role in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Targeting these cells could lead to new treatments with fewer adverse effects.
A new risk score app, CAR-OLT, has been developed to predict cardiovascular complications in liver transplant patients. The app uses a unique blood flow model and is intended for use in those ages 18 to 75 with liver disease undergoing evaluation for liver transplantation.
A proof-of-concept study demonstrates the potential of nanoparticles in delivering molecules that target specific genetic markers in glioblastoma brain tumors. The therapy stops tumor growth and extends survival when administered continuously through an implanted drug infusion pump.
A Northwestern University study has engineered a cost-effective laser design that outputs multi-color lasing, offering potential benefits in optical fibers, medical imaging, and sensing applications. The new technology allows for stable multi-modal nanoscale lasing with fine control over color and intensity.
New studies from Northwestern University reveal that high school and college students from low SES backgrounds are less motivated to overcome academic hardships when they doubt their chances of achieving upward mobility. The research highlights the importance of providing viable paths to future financial stability for these students.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a synthetic material that can trigger reversible cell signaling, enabling potential treatments for Parkinson's and other diseases. The material can be used to control stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and return to a proliferative state on demand.
A team led by Northwestern University's Erik Luijten and Steve Granick discovered a non-equilibrium system that quantitatively behaves like an equilibrium system. The finding could lead to a set of rules making it possible to predict the properties of non-equilibrium systems.
A Northwestern University study finds that having a purpose in life is associated with improved sleep quality, reduced sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome in older adults. The research suggests that cultivating purpose through mindfulness therapies could be an effective drug-free strategy to improve sleep.
A study published in PNAS found that early environmental exposures predict DNA methylation of inflammatory genes, leading to increased inflammation and disease risk in adulthood. Nutritional, microbial, and psychosocial factors in infancy are associated with epigenetic changes that shape inflammation and health.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that cosmetic complaints have more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, with hair care products being the biggest offender. The lack of regulatory scrutiny and poor reporting by consumers and manufacturers lead to significant under-reporting of adverse events, with only 200-400 reported annually
Researchers at Northwestern University have designed a sugar-coated nanomaterial that promotes bone regeneration by binding to growth factor BMP-2, reducing its need by 100 times. The biodegradable material functions as an artificial extracellular matrix, mimicking natural cell interactions.
Scientists discovered that nonclassical monocytes play a key role in driving primary graft dysfunction after lung transplantation. Targeting these cells could lead to novel treatments and potentially prevent death.
A large-scale study found that premature babies born at 23-24 weeks were ready for kindergarten on time, while those born 25 weeks or later performed only slightly lower than full-term infants. Nearly 2% of extremely premature babies achieved gifted status in school.
Scientists have developed a systematic approach to screen for molecules produced by molds, finding 17 new natural products in three species. The technology, called FAC-MS, uses genomics and data analytics to identify gene clusters that produce valuable chemicals.
Researchers have developed a novel material that rapidly removes perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) from water, achieving concentrations below 10 parts per trillion. The material, made from a networked polymer, has shown greater affinity for PFOA than activated carbon and can be regenerated multiple times.