A new Northwestern University study found that enhancing the brain's immune cells can clear Alzheimer's plaques and restore a healthier brain environment in immunized patient brains. The findings could reshape the future of Alzheimer's treatments by shifting the focus from removing plaques to harnessing the brain's natural defenses.
A new Northwestern Medicine study suggests that muscle injuries heal faster when they occur during the body’s natural waking hours. The findings could have implications for shift workers and may also prove useful in understanding the effects of aging and obesity.
Researchers have directly observed water molecules flipping before splitting, which explains why the process requires more energy than expected. This finding could lead to new insights into increasing the efficiency of water splitting, a crucial step in generating clean hydrogen fuel and producing breathable oxygen.
Researchers found differences in genes and brain wiring between forest and desert flies, explaining how climate change impacts insects. Forest flies show increased avoidance of heat, while desert flies are attracted to warmer temperatures.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered iron oxides can drive phosphorus conversion at rates comparable to enzymes, unlocking access to essential nutrients for plant growth. The discovery could optimize agricultural soil use and improve crop yields.
A Northwestern University study discovered a region of the brain processes subtle changes in voice pitch, transforming them into meaningful linguistic information that guides human understanding. The findings challenge long-held assumptions about speech perception and have implications for speech rehabilitation, AI-powered voice assist...
Researchers have developed a highly sensitive water contamination detection tool using a cantilever-based test that can detect metals like lead and cadmium at concentrations down to two and one parts per billion. The technology merges synthetic biology and nanotechnology, enabling rapid detection of chemicals in water.
A recent survey by Northwestern University found that fathers who take at least two weeks of leave are more likely to report their infant being breastfed at eight weeks. Additionally, families where dads took at least two weeks off had a higher rate of continued breastfeeding at eight weeks compared to those with shorter leave.
Researchers found that brewing tea can adsorb significant amounts of toxic heavy metals like lead and cadmium from drinking water. The study revealed that steeping time played the most significant role in removing metal ions, with longer steeping times resulting in more effective filtering.
A new review of clinical trials found that single-session interventions can significantly improve mental health outcomes for both youth and adults, with 83% reporting positive effects. The approach is poised to fill gaps in the mental health care system, particularly for digital, self-guided therapies.
A new treatment for post-amputation pain may have reduced residual limb pain and opioid dependence, according to a Northwestern Medicine study. Hydrodissection, a simple procedure that injects fluid around nerves, showed significant improvements in pain relief and mental health benefits.
A Northwestern University-led team observed Sagittarius A*, the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, exhibiting a constant stream of flares with no periods of rest. The level of activity varies widely, from short interludes to long stretches, and appears to be random.
Researchers identified specific non-frontal brain areas involved in speech intent, which can be used to distinguish between language production and perception. This study is a crucial step towards developing a brain-computer interface to treat patients with Broca's aphasia.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that macrophages in newborns use a process called efferocytosis to produce thromboxane, which triggers the production of a bioactive lipid that signals heart muscle cells to divide and regenerate. This process is less effective in adults, leading to scar-tissue buildup and often heart failure.
Researchers discovered that mantis shrimp's armored clubs selectively block high-frequency sound waves to prevent damage. The layered patterns act as a shield against vibrations, enabling the shrimp to preserve its striking ability over multiple impacts.
Researchers successfully reversed existing inguinal hernias in male mice using an anti-estrogen drug, restoring their anatomy without surgery. Human tissue samples also showed identical molecular markers as in the mouse model, suggesting a promising treatment target for inguinal hernia repair.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a specialized sponge that can collect and release metals, plastics, and nutrients from stormwater pollution. The technology uses nanoparticles to attract pollutants and then releases them at different pH levels, making it a potential low-cost solution for environmental remediation.
A Northwestern University study found that a fiber-free juice diet can trigger shifts in gut and oral bacteria linked to inflammation and cognitive decline. The study suggests that juicing without fiber may disrupt the microbiome, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel high-performance organic electrochemical neuron that responds within the frequency range of human neurons. The device was integrated with artificial touch receptors and synapses to create a complete perception system, enabling real-time tactile signal sensing and processing.
A natural compound derived from gut-friendly bacteria significantly slows vitiligo progression and may restore pigmentation in mice. The findings could offer hope to millions affected by the autoimmune disease, which causes visible patches of skin discoloration and carries profound emotional and physical consequences.
Researchers propose a new strategy to stabilize quantum networks by rebuilding connections after each use, which leads to an eventual stable network state. The key is finding the optimal number of links to add, determined to be the square root of the number of users.
Astronomers have traced a fast radio burst to an ancient, dead, elliptical galaxy, shattering assumptions that these events solely emanate from young star-forming regions. The discovery hints at the possibility of diverse origins for FRBs.
A Northwestern University-led research team has developed a 2D mechanically interlocked polymer with exceptional flexibility and strength. The material's unique structure exhibits up to 100 trillion mechanical bonds per square centimeter, making it a promising candidate for high-performance body armor.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that medical school curricula often view disability as a problem, leading to negative assumptions and inadequate preparation for doctors. The study emphasizes the need for systemic reform in medical education to address ableism and promote disability-competent care.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that achieving equity in social drivers of health, particularly education, can nearly eliminate the gap in heart health between Black and white women. The study found that educational attainment had the largest impact on maternal cardiovascular health disparities. Improving access to healthy ...
Researchers developed a 'volume dial' to amplify weak signals in the human body and environment. The system, called ROSALIND, can detect contaminants like E. coli and heavy metals at lower concentrations than previous models.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed an efficient storage agent for sustainable energy solutions using triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), a well-known chemical byproduct. The team's 'one-pot' reaction method enables the transformation of TPPO into a usable product with powerful potential to store energy.
Researchers successfully transmit quantum information through a 30-kilometer-long fiberoptic cable carrying internet traffic, introducing a new possibility for combining quantum communication with existing internet cables. This breakthrough simplifies the infrastructure required for distributed quantum sensing or computing applications.
Researchers have discovered a mismatched composition of gases in the planet's atmosphere compared to gases within the disk. The study found that the ratio of carbon and oxygen gases in the planet is much lower than expected, suggesting that current models of planet formation may be too simplified.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals how metformin lowers glucose levels by targeting mitochondrial complex I in cells. The drug also improves COVID outcomes and reduces inflammation, suggesting that mitochondrial complex I inhibition may be a unifying mechanism behind its diverse effects.
Researchers have refined the timing and duration of Ocean Anoxic Event 1a, an extreme environmental disruption that caused significant extinction among plankton. The study determined OAE 1a lasted for just over 1.1 million years, providing valuable insights into Earth's climate and ocean system.
A new study by Northwestern University researchers found that breathing rhythms coordinate hippocampal brain waves during sleep, strengthening memory consolidation. This synchronization is critical for proper memory formation and retrieval, with implications for treating disordered breathing during sleep, such as sleep apnea.
A new AI tool called PlacentaVision can rapidly evaluate placentas at birth to detect abnormalities associated with infection and neonatal sepsis. This could lead to improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies, particularly in areas with limited medical resources.
Researchers found a powerful antioxidant in Deinococcus radiodurans that combines with manganese to protect against radiation damage. The discovery could lead to synthetic antioxidants tailored for human needs, protecting astronauts and preparing for radiation emergencies.
A new implantable device, inspired by a tree branch, uses DNA sensors to continuously monitor inflammation biomarkers in the body. The device accurately measures protein biomarkers of inflammation in diabetic rats and has potential applications for managing acute and chronic conditions.
A global survey of over 4,700 food allergy patients and families found airline travel to be a significant source of worry and anxiety. The study suggests that reasonable accommodations, such as pre-boarding and allergen-free zones, can reduce stress for travelers with food allergies.
A Northwestern University study found that gut microbes from large-brain primate species, such as humans and squirrel monkeys, can increase energy production in mice, while those from small-brain species like macaques store more energy as fat. This suggests a link between the microbiota and brain evolution.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found the 'lizard brain' is connected to newly evolved social cognitive network regions, which are involved in thinking about other people. This link helps shape the function of the social cognitive network by giving it access to the amygdala's role in processing emotionally important content.
A new study from Northwestern Medicine reveals a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity and birth complications in Illinois between 2016 and 2023. The findings highlight the impact of chronic health conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and mental health disorders on pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers developed a new amidinium-based coating that extends the life of perovskite solar cells, tripling their T90 lifetime and doubling their stability. The coated cells achieved a record-breaking 26% efficiency and withstood harsh conditions for up to 1,100 hours.
A new analysis reveals that zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technologies can increase water recovery from desalination while reducing waste, but at increased costs and energy consumption. The process poses tradeoffs between fighting future water scarcity and environmental effects.
A Northwestern University-led team developed a new haptic patch that delivers various complex sensations, including vibrations and twisting. The device has potential applications in gaming, virtual reality, healthcare, and sensory substitution, offering more realistic sensory experiences.
Scientists have developed a polymer-based therapeutic for Huntington’s disease, which disrupts protein interactions to preserve cell health. The treatment successfully rescued neurons and reversed symptoms in mouse studies, showing promise as a potential delay or reduction of disease onset.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new surface that prevents 100% of frost formation on flat areas for up to 160 hours. The hybrid surface combines a textured macrotexture with a thin layer of graphene oxide, offering a promising solution for various applications.
A team of researchers from Northwestern University has developed a novel machine-learning approach to accurately predict pneumonia outcomes by analyzing electronic health records. The study identifies five distinct clinical states in pneumonia, three of which are strongly associated with disease outcomes and two that can help physician...
A study by Northwestern University found that cross-talk between the hippocampus and cortex can predict chronic pain, with higher anxiety levels increasing precision. The researchers suggest targeting anxiety after injury to prevent chronic pain, paving the way for novel treatments.
A study found that 4.6% of Nigerian participants with COVID-19 experienced neurologic symptoms, with some still experiencing symptoms two years after their initial episode. Researchers plan to treat these patients using similar techniques used in the US, aiming to alleviate their suffering.
Scientists have discovered a long non-coding RNA called CHASERR that regulates the production of the CHD2 gene, which is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found that patients with a deletion of this RNA had excessive CHD2 protein production, leading to severe intellectual delays and other symptoms.
A new therapeutic approach combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lucid dreaming has shown promise in reducing nightmare severity and frequency in patients with narcolepsy. The study, published in the Journal of Sleep Research, found overall reductions in nightmare symptoms in all six participants tested.
Researchers have developed a new system for full-body motion capture that leverages sensors within consumer mobile devices. The app, called MobilePoser, tracks a person's full-body pose and global translation in space in real time with advanced machine learning and physics-based optimization.