Astronomers have discovered that the most powerful fast radio burst (FRB) ever observed originated from a rare compact group of at least seven interacting galaxies. This finding challenges scientific models of how FRBs are produced and may indicate that star formation triggered the burst.
A new two-year study will examine the impact of environmental factors on children's health, including those with disabilities. The researchers aim to recruit a diverse population of pregnant people and their children to understand the bidirectional relationship between mother and child.
Researchers developed a synaptic transistor capable of higher-level thinking and performing associative learning, categorizing data, and retaining information at room temperature. The device operates fast, consumes low energy, and is ideal for real-world applications.
Researchers developed a physics-based metric to predict aortic aneurysm development, measuring 'fluttering' in blood vessels. The 'flutter instability parameter' forecasted abnormal growth three years prior to occurrence with 98% accuracy.
A Northwestern University study found that nearly two-thirds of patients discontinue or change their medication within a year, highlighting the need for better understanding of barriers to treatment adherence. The high discontinuation rate for GLP-1 RAs may be due to gastrointestinal side effects.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed virtual reality goggles for mice, allowing them to study responses to overhead threats for the first time. The new system enabled more accurate and precise neural circuitry analysis by simulating natural environments, reducing training times compared to traditional VR systems.
A new catalyst developed by Northwestern University chemists can break down Nylon-6, a common plastic found in fishing nets, carpet, and clothing, in just minutes. The process does not generate harmful byproducts and is practical for everyday applications.
Researchers characterized nearly 600 microbial genomes, revealing two types of microbes: minimalists and maximalists. Minimalists share resources with friends, while maximalists can produce energy and transform biomolecules, offering insights into life in the Earth's crust and potential on Mars.
A new AI tool combines cancerous and non-cancerous cell patterns to predict breast cancer outcomes, allowing for more precise treatment plans. This could lead to reduced chemotherapy duration and intensity for some patients.
Researchers developed a flexible new platform that solves part of the daunting delivery problem in cell and gene therapies. The workhorses behind this platform are extracellular vesicles, which bind to target cells and effectively transfer drugs inside.
Researchers analyzed the chemistry of distant teenage galaxies, finding they are unusually hot and contain unexpected elements like nickel. The study provides insight into galaxy formation and evolution, shedding light on why some galaxies appear 'red and dead' while others continue to form stars.
Researchers developed soft, miniaturized wearables that continuously track subtle body sounds wirelessly across the body. The devices offer new functionalities and provide highly accurate, real-time evaluation of patient health.
A Northwestern University study identified a brain pathway that responds to rapid thermal change in fruit flies, priming behavior for escape. The researchers found that flies react more quickly to rapid heat changes than slow ones, and that this reaction is mediated by a specific circuit in the fly brain.
Northwestern University researchers have created a new perovskite solar cell that achieves a National Renewable Energy Lab certified efficiency of 25.1%, surpassing earlier records. The breakthrough is made possible by a combination of two molecules, one addressing surface recombination and the other disrupting interface recombination.
A new study by Northwestern University found that immigrants living in the US have lower preterm birth rates than native-born individuals, with Black people born in the US experiencing the highest rate. This disparity highlights the importance of considering nativity as a social determinant of health.
A new study from Northwestern University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that reducing sodium intake by just one teaspoon a day can lower systolic blood pressure by about 6 millimeters of mercury, comparable to the effect produced by commonly used first-line medication for high blood pressure. The study involved middle-a...
Researchers constructed the most complete map yet of the microbial communities in Yucatán's underwater caves, revealing distinct patterns and a core set of organisms performing key roles. The study found that Comamonadaceae, a family of bacteria typically found in groundwater systems, lived in several niches across the cave system.
A Northwestern University study found that consumers are more willing to accept automated vehicle delivery than drones or robots as a substitute for human drivers. However, tech-savvy consumers and those who prioritize speed and efficiency are more accepting of these technologies.
A novel device, ecO2, produces oxygen at the site to keep cells alive for up to a month in vitro or weeks in vivo. This innovation improves the outcomes of cell-based therapies for diseases and injuries by increasing metabolic demand.
A Northwestern University and University of Copenhagen study reveals that Greenland's thousands of peripheral glaciers have rapidly retreated over the past two decades. The research team combined satellite images with historical aerial photographs to document changes in over 1,000 glaciers over a century.
A new Northwestern University study estimates that approximately 171,000 premature deaths per year are linked to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exposure, with a disproportionate number occurring in marginalized communities. The study found that NO2 pollution affects predominantly Black census tracts 47% higher than the national average.
A study led by Northwestern University found that a Chicago-based community violence intervention program reduced gun violence involvement by over 73% among participants. The program's alumni showed the best outcomes, with a significant decrease in assaults, robberies, and other gun-related violence.
A new survey from Northwestern University found that dads working from home during the pandemic reported twice as much parenting stress as those who worked onsite. The study suggests that societal expectations on men to prioritize work over family may contribute to this increased stress.
A team of researchers has developed a novel methodology to engineer colloidal quasicrystals using DNA-modified building blocks, revealing new avenues for nanoscale design. The study demonstrates the programmable nature of DNA to design and assemble quasicrystals deliberately.
A Northwestern Medicine study found that postpartum individuals living in states with generous mandated paid family and medical leave are more likely to breastfeed and less likely to experience postpartum depression symptoms. Lower-income populations covered by Medicaid saw the greatest benefits, with a 32% greater likelihood of breast...
Acute sleep loss in mice increases dopamine release and enhances synaptic plasticity, leading to a rapid reversal of depression for several days. The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in this process, with neurons forming tiny protrusions that change in response to brain activity.
Scientists developed a synthetic melanin that accelerates wound healing and protects against sun damage. The cream also quiets the immune system, allowing for continuous repair and reducing inflammation.
Researchers at Northwestern University and Field Museum analyzed lunar crystals to determine the Moon's age, finding it to be approximately 4.46 billion years old, 40 million years older than previous estimates. This discovery sheds light on the Moon's formation and its impact on the Earth's planetary system.
Northwestern University engineers developed a nanoelectronic device that can perform accurate machine-learning classification tasks in real time with reduced power consumption. The device can be deployed directly in wearable electronics for real-time detection and data processing, enabling more rapid intervention for health emergencies.
A new study by Northwestern University found that syphilis rates are nearly twice as high among transgender women and Black gay and bisexual men compared to white gay men. The study suggests that preventing and treating syphilis requires outreach to key populations, particularly those from communities of color.
A new study found that pre-pregnancy obesity is a primary driver of future cardiovascular disease risk, rather than pregnancy complications. The research followed 4,216 individuals from early pregnancy to postpartum and found those with overweight or obese BMI had a higher risk of developing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.
A study has identified genetic markers that can predict whether rheumatoid arthritis will improve or worsen during pregnancy. These markers were found in white blood cells and genes related to B cells, and may help women plan their treatment and avoid unnecessary medication exposure.
A new study found three genes strongly linked to vegetarianism, including those involved in lipid metabolism and brain function. The study suggests that genetics play a role in determining whether someone can stick to a strict vegetarian diet.
A team of researchers at Northwestern University developed an AI capable of intelligently designing robots from scratch, compressing evolution into lightning speed. The AI designed a successfully walking robot in mere seconds, with a novel structure and three legs, fins along its back, and a flat face.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel approach to capture carbon from ambient environmental conditions, using innovative kinetic methodologies and a diversity of ions. The 'moisture-swing' technique captures CO2 at low humidities and releases it at high humidities, enabling carbon removal from virtually anywhere.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed Lattice, a device that simulates human disease in multiple organs to analyze interactions and test new drugs. The technology can replicate complex disease processes, allowing scientists to study the effects of obesity on endometrial cancer, for example.
A Northwestern University-led team of astrophysicists has discovered that young galaxies appear brighter than anticipated due to irregular bursts of star formation. This finding explains the puzzling appearance of massive galaxies too soon after the Big Bang, fitting within the standard model of cosmology.
Researchers studied ancient aquatic plant waxes to understand how global warming affects methane production in Arctic lakes. They found that past warming led to an intensified methane cycle lasting thousands of years, and that ongoing warming could lead to previously under-appreciated fluxes in methane emissions.
A new study by Northwestern University found that Chicago's West Side experiences significantly elevated nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air pollution compared to other areas. The study used three state-of-the-art datasets and consistently identified the West Side as a hotspot in both February and August, affecting approximately 501,000 people
A Northwestern University study reveals that black holes devour gas at a much faster rate than previously believed. The simulations indicate that the inner regions of the accretion disk are destroyed and replenished, explaining the drastic variation in quasars' brightness and fading patterns.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that a dysfunction in the neuron's synapses leads to deficits in dopamine and precedes neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. The findings suggest targeting dysfunctional synapses before neurons degenerate may represent a better therapeutic strategy.
A study published in Sleep Medicine found that arousal disorders, including sexsomnia and sleep eating, often go untreated due to a lack of consensus on best treatments. Cognitive behavioral therapy and sleep hygiene have shown effectiveness in managing these conditions, which can result in injuries or weight gain.
Replacing combustion engines with electric vehicles in Chicago would significantly reduce air pollution, especially in predominantly Black, Hispanic, and Latinx neighborhoods. The study found that electrification of all on-road vehicles could save over 1,000 lives and $10 billion annually.
A Northwestern University study found that endogenous cannabinoid molecules released by the brain during stress can calm it down. These molecules activate the same receptors as THC and may provide a natural coping response to stress.
A hybrid catalyst made of zinc and copper produces critical fertilizer and cleans wastewater, reducing carbon footprint and supplying a potential revenue stream. The process involves converting carbon dioxide and waste nitrogen using the hybrid catalyst, achieving an optimal performance ratio.
A new device developed by Northwestern University researchers can detect temperature irregularities associated with inflammation and other body responses that arise with transplant rejection. This allows for earlier intervention, improving patient outcomes and increasing the odds of preserving donated organs.
A new Northwestern University-led study finds that electrifying 30% of heavy-duty vehicles in the lower Great Lakes region, including Chicago, would significantly reduce pollution and save hundreds of lives annually. The benefits are largely concentrated in disadvantaged communities, where residents face disproportionate health burdens.
A team of astrophysicists at Northwestern University has successfully simulated the process of a black hole-neutron star merger, which is believed to have produced the unprecedented gamma-ray burst GRB211211A. The simulation reveals that the post-merger black hole launches jets of material from the swallowed neutron star.
A Northwestern University study reveals how the NEK1 gene mutation affects neurons, causing instability in microtubules and disrupting nuclear import. This discovery suggests anti-cancer drugs could be used to treat ALS by stabilizing microtubules.
A new Northwestern Medicine study measures resilience in biomedical scientists during COVID-19, revealing that resiliency did not guarantee career advancement. The study found that women scientists faced greater household responsibilities and social pressure to advance their careers, leading to significant career setbacks.