Researchers have developed a novel approach to detect non-uniformities in 2D materials, enabling the creation of new medical sensors that can detect cancer treatment drugs like doxorubicin. The sensor material combines multiple signals from graphene and molybdenum disulfide to accurately measure analyte concentration.
A team of Penn State researchers developed a transparent, biocompatible ultrasound transducer chip for easy cell culture and stimulation. The chip enables high-resolution imaging and reproducible results in stem cell, cancer, and neuroscience research.
Researchers found that longer and hotter roasting conditions can reduce bitterness in unsweetened chocolate, making it more palatable for health-conscious consumers. The study involved 145 participants who evaluated 27 different chocolate samples, with the most acceptable being made from beans roasted at 340°F.
New Penn State research found that the maximum wet-bulb temperature for humans is lower than previously thought, at around 31°C in warm-humid environments. This finding has significant implications for planning and preparing for extreme heat events.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that children do not eat what they dislike, but rather choose to avoid foods they don't like. The study, involving 61 children ages 4-6, revealed a strong correlation between consumption and the foods children said they didn't like.
A recent study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found a genetic mutation in a specific gene associated with perceived inadequate milk supply (PIMS) in women. The researchers identified this mutation, MFGE8, as a key predictor of low milk production and shorter breastfeeding durations. By screening for this mutation combined with mat...
A multi-university team will develop and implement a virtual reality system to create a personalized, collaborative VR platform for use in the classroom. Students will use headsets and hand controls while learning, enabling 3D interactions and simulations.
A new study by Penn State researchers predicts reduced corn production due to climate change, with irrigated yields blunted. Rainfed corn yields are projected to decline up to 40 bushels per acre, while irrigated yields face a 19-bushel-per-acre decline.
A study by Brandi Rollins and Lori Francis found that early positive interactions with caregivers can reduce the risk of childhood obesity. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 mother-child pairs and discovered that children's early exposures to family psychosocial assets protect against obesity.
A long-term study of children's insomnia symptoms reveals that many persist into young adulthood and are more likely to develop an insomnia disorder. The research suggests that early intervention is crucial, and behavioral therapies may be effective in addressing chronic sleep issues.
A $3.9 million research project will examine COVID-19's impact on pregnancy, maternal health, and infant development in diverse communities across Pennsylvania. The study aims to identify associations between COVID-19, psychological distress, and long-term maternal health outcomes.
A study found that supermarkets provide the healthiest assortment of foods, followed by grocery stores, while convenience stores have lower availability and higher prices for fruits and vegetables. The research has important implications for regions with high obesity rates and limited access to healthy food options.
Researchers aim to eliminate respirable coal mine dust toxicity with chemical additives, targeting ultrafine particles and quartz. The project will investigate particle surface chemistry and aging effects on toxicity, with potential applications in metal, non-metal mining, and construction.
Researchers have developed two new gene editing methods for ticks, allowing scientists to alter parts of the tick genome involved in harboring and transmitting pathogens. The methods use CRISPR/Cas9 technology and could lead to the development of new control methods for diseases like Lyme disease.
A field study in South Korea has provided valuable tests of photochemical models' ability to represent atmospheric chemistry, especially in polluted environments. The analysis of airborne measurements of hydroxyl radical and other chemical species showed agreement with model values when uncertainties are considered.
Researchers developed a methodology to compress extensive genetic data libraries, reducing their size while preserving essential information.
Prunes have been found to help prevent or delay bone loss in postmenopausal women by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. This is due to their potential to alter the gut microbiome, which can lead to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of oxidative damage.
A nationwide study is exploring how genomic ancestry, genomic variation, and environmental variation interact to produce traits important for forest tree fitness. Researchers are using whole-genome sequencing data with large-scale networks of replicated common garden experiments.
A team of researchers used advanced dating techniques to determine that the subduction of continental material occurred after the obduction of the Samail Ophiolite, contradicting previous estimates. The study provides new insights into subduction zones and their formation.
Engineers from Penn State assessed structural damage and resilience in Mayfield, Kentucky, after the December 2021 Midwest Tornado series. They collected data through door-to-door assessments, drone evaluations, and photographs to understand community recovery and design more resilient structures.
Research by Penn State found that intensive soil tillage can significantly reduce the availability of ergothioneine in crops. Ergothioneine is an amino acid produced by certain fungi and bacteria, which has potent antioxidant properties and is linked to long-term human health.
Researchers are developing novel biomaterials to promote new blood vessel and axon formation after a stroke, aiming to improve neurological conditions. The project targets post-stroke immune response and aims to enhance the healing process.
Research shows that couples who took Family Foundations classes 10 years ago had more positive family relationships during the pandemic. They reported lower levels of negative mood, behavior problems, and sibling conflict in their children.
A team of researchers from Penn State has developed a method to optimize acoustic and structural properties of concrete floor slabs. The study found that shaped structures can improve sound insulation performance while reducing embodied carbon emissions.
Researchers created a stable surface with exceptional points, demonstrating perfect light absorption in a coherent system. The discovery enables the investigation of new physics and potential applications for better sensors and novel ways of controlling light-matter interaction.
Researchers have imaged an enzyme involved in carbapenem biosynthesis, shedding light on the process of creating a potent side chain that makes these antibiotics effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The discovery could lead to improved antibiotics and new strategies for combating bacterial resistance.
Researchers at Penn State developed a computational optimizer to design a 3D unit cell with cube-shaped cavities that enables asymmetric transmission of linearly polarized light across a wide frequency range. The optimized design was successfully fabricated and tested, demonstrating robust optical properties.
A new technique combining microwave data with existing computer weather forecast models reduced forecast errors for Hurricane Harvey, improving track, intensity, and rainfall forecasts. This could lead to better warnings and preparedness for tropical cyclone-associated hazards.
Researchers from Penn State's Department of Biobehavioral Health developed wearable sensors that can detect alcohol concentration in sweat, providing a more nuanced understanding of intoxication. The study shows that wearable technology can predict the negative consequences of drinking and help prevent alcohol-related harm.
A recent study found that people with Parkinson's Disease who consume more flavonoids have a lower mortality risk than those who don't. The researchers discovered that higher flavonoid intake is associated with improved survival rates in both men and women, particularly when it comes to anthocyanin-rich foods like berries and red wine.
The Omicron variant diverged from previous variants through adaptive evolution, with more than 30 mutations in its spike protein. The team found evidence of positive natural selection and partial immune evasion contributing to its rapid spread.
A new Penn State study found that Black youth with high BMIs reported fewer weight concerns when they had a strong sense of racial identity. Fathers also played a role in shaping their daughters' body image, particularly when involved in teaching about Black culture. The findings suggest that services promoting youth racial identity an...
A recent study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that people with underweight who drink excessively may be at an even higher risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other causes. The researchers analyzed data on mortality risk among drinkers and non-drinkers using the CDC categories to define
Researchers developed a new flexible thermoelectric device that can wrap around pipes and convert wasted heat into electricity. The project is aimed at addressing climate change by increasing private forest owners' involvement in carbon offset projects.
A new device can wrap around pipes and hot surfaces, converting wasted heat into usable electricity more efficiently than previous devices. The flexible thermoelectric generator offers higher power output and efficiency, making it suitable for widespread utilization in waste heat recovery applications.
Researchers studied evacuees from Finland during WWII and found that cultural similarities, such as language and social networks, were crucial for successful migrations. Being younger, male, educated, and linguistically similar to the host population also increased the likelihood of staying in a new home.
A nationwide study found that weight loss prior to starting infertility treatments did not increase the chances of having a healthy baby. Women with obesity and unexplained infertility who lost weight before beginning therapy did not have a greater chance of delivering a healthy baby than those who did not lose weight.
Researchers at Penn State have been awarded a $3.4 million contract from the REMADE Institute to develop a flexible, two-stage chemical recycling process for mixed plastic waste. The process aims to decompose multiple types of plastic and convert them into valuable chemicals that can be used to create new products.
Researchers analyzing Martian sediment samples suggest three possible explanations for the carbon's origin, including cosmic dust, ultraviolet degradation of carbon dioxide, or biological activity. The findings provide insights into the ancient Mars' carbon cycle and its potential habitability.
A Penn State study integrates multiple models to capture climate-related interactions between water, power, and economic systems. Higher water temperatures can lead to a causal chain of events, including generator outages, higher costs, and productivity reductions.
Researchers found that women who experienced childhood sexual abuse developed blunted cortisol profiles, associated with health problems like depression and anxiety. Epigenetic age acceleration also contributed to these effects. The study aims to understand resilience to trauma and develop interventions for those affected.
Research led by Penn State found that minority individuals are more accepting of a combination influenza-COVID-19 vaccine than COVID-19 alone. The study suggests bundling vaccines may increase future uptake among minorities due to convenience.
A new study found that manufacturing facilities that use large amounts of water during periods of drought often streamline their processes to lower toxic emissions into water, lakes, and rivers. On average, these changes resulted in reduced toxic emissions by over 2.5%.
Penn State researchers found that public compliance with health measures correlates with COVID-19 case projections in nearby zip codes. A survey of over 10,600 people revealed areas where residents expressed less willingness to follow guidance had higher COVID-19 cases.
Researchers at Penn State developed a new risk score system that uses genetic data to predict obesity in young children. The scores, called polygenic risk scores, can be easily interpreted and have been shown to be effective in identifying children most at risk for developing obesity.
Researchers at Penn State will investigate ways to stimulate muscle growth by increasing ribosome production. Their goal is to find molecular targets that can be used to promote muscle growth without exercise or drugs. This study aims to prevent muscle loss due to aging, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
Researchers developed a new class of nanomaterials that capture chemotherapy drugs before they interact with healthy tissue, reducing off-target effects. The highly efficient approach captures DOX at a capacity more than 3,200% higher than other platforms.
Researchers developed propSym to calculate fundamental constants of solids, reducing redundant components and improving material modeling. The open-source software is adaptable to various physical properties, aiming to lower the entry barrier for analytical modeling.
A recent study suggests that dairy farmers in the Northeast can reduce environmental impacts and maximize revenues by implementing double cropping and subsurface injection of manure into the soil. These strategies reduced total nitrogen losses by 12-18% and total phosphorus losses by 16-19%.
Researchers found that community engagement is key to addressing risky health behaviors, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods. The study used a neighborhood mapping platform and in-person interviews to investigate how tobacco industry marketing affects neighborhoods of color.