A team of Penn State students developed a multi-pronged data analysis approach to improve IoT device security. They applied statistical data, machine learning, and other methods to identify potential security breaches and develop predictive patterns to anticipate attacks.
Researchers found that young infants with fevers are more likely to develop serious bacterial infections. Infants under eight weeks old have a doubled risk of developing such infections. Parents are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention if their child develops a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
The economic cost of natural disasters has increased disproportionately for major events like hurricanes and tornadoes, while lesser events have seen less growth. Climate change is driving these increases, with the top 1% of damages estimated to rise by $26 million annually.
Scientists have observed a rare instance of interspecific feeding among songbirds, where an adult male Eastern bluebird is caring for the young of another species, the tree swallow. The unusual behavior is thought to be caused by the bluebird's confusion and 'place-based decision' to care for the wrong chicks.
A team of researchers led by Penn State's Ming Xiao is studying the effects of permafrost degradation on Alaskan communities and the world. The project aims to understand how ground changes, infrastructure, and social systems interact as temperatures rise.
A team of researchers is working on understanding the agility of hummingbirds to develop robotic systems that can mimic their complex escape maneuvers. By studying the aerodynamics, perception, motion planning, and control of hummingbird flight, the team hopes to create robots that can achieve high agility in fluid environments.
A comparative analysis of 60 municipal smart-city plans reveals four major types: Essential Services Model, Smart Transportation Model, Broad Spectrum Model, and Business Ecosystem Model. These categories offer targeted suggestions for implementing smart-city components, tailored to each city's socio-economic circumstances.
Researchers found that individuals with generalized anxiety disorder were more sensitive to emotional shifts and experienced anxiety during relaxation exercises. This sensitivity was linked to feeling anxious while being led through relaxation sessions.
Researchers have developed a method to transfer information using surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), enabling faster signal propagation in microelectronic chips. The technique, which uses multiple snapshots of electromagnetic fields, can potentially solve the problem of shrinking electronic components and improve the speed of chips.
A team of Penn State researchers developed a model that can accurately predict wind farm energy production and location. The model provides a probability curve for wind production, allowing companies to make informed decisions about investing in wind farms.
Researchers Keefe Manning and Yong Wang propose a new method of surface modification of nanoparticles for local drug delivery to prevent thrombosis in medical devices. The goal is to develop a solution that would reduce side effects and increase drug concentration without frequent administration of antithrombotic drugs.
Researchers will investigate factors contributing to successful post-adoption development in children adopted from the child welfare system, focusing on household dynamics and physiological mechanisms.
Researchers found that dads' childcare activities are more likely to be recreational and take place on the weekend, while mothers' activities involve infants and solo parenting. The study suggests that parents' happiness and stress levels depend on the type of childcare activity and context in which it takes place.
A new AI tool will predict near-term crop productivity for African farmers, providing insights into drought tolerance and suitable crops. The app, developed by Penn State researchers, aims to help farmers adapt to climate change through behavioral changes and best practices.
Researchers have designed a new class of modified pantothenamides that stop malaria parasites from replicating in humans and preventing transmission to mosquitoes. These compounds are effective against malaria parasites resistant to currently available drugs.
Researchers found that exposure to BMAA, a toxin produced by algae, can alter the structure of protein SOD1, leading to neurodegenerative disease ALS. The study suggests that studying patterns of SOD1 modifications may aid in developing lifestyle and preventative interventions for sporadic ALS.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming four servings of cheese per day alongside a high sodium diet may protect blood vessels from damage. The researchers discovered that antioxidants in cheese may play a role in preserving vascular health, providing an alternative strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Students in CTC participating districts showed significant reductions in marijuana, cigarette, alcohol use, and delinquent behavior compared to non-CTC districts. The study highlights the effectiveness of evidence-based programs in promoting healthy youth development.
Researchers have developed a brain-inspired, analog neural network that provides probabilistic responses for complex decision-making. The device is more energy efficient and produces less heat than current computing architectures.
A recent study found that rabbit and mouse papillomaviruses can be transferred by blood to their respective hosts, raising the possibility of human papillomavirus (HPV) transmission through blood in humans. The researchers also detected HPV sequences in mucous membranes like the tongue and genitals, as well as in the stomach.
Researchers have developed a new gene therapy that converts glial cells into neurons, improving motor function in mice and potentially treating stroke. The treatment uses the NeuroD1 gene and has been shown to increase neuronal density and reduce brain tissue loss in mouse models of stroke.
Researchers found that bus drivers who received a serving of fresh fruit in addition to their box lunch experienced significantly decreased depression levels and increased self-efficacy. These small gestures can make a big difference in improving worker performance and health.
Researchers at Penn State developed a new method to measure network changes over time, revealing key insights into the world economy's response to the 2008-2009 financial crisis. The study found significant rewiring in the global economy during this period, and its impact on countries' economic growth rates.
Research by Penn State scientists found that some ash trees have varying degrees of resistance to the emerald ash borer, allowing them to survive longer. The study suggests that genetic variation among trees could ensure the survival of the species.
A new study reveals that livestock managed in a system where they are the sole source of an owner's livelihood are more likely to become infected with PPRV. Herds from pastoral villages had 3.8 times the risk of becoming infected compared to agropastoral villages.
A new study by Penn State researchers proposes an updated biochemical pathway explaining how Methanosarcina acetivorans uses iron to produce methane and carbon dioxide. The microorganism can now be manipulated to alter greenhouse gas production, offering potential for climate change mitigation.
A meta-analysis of 58 studies found that brachytherapy and Mohs surgery have better cosmetic outcomes than conventional excision and external beam radiation therapy. These treatments offer effective alternatives to surgery for patients, particularly those who may not be suitable for surgical options.
A new study by Penn State researcher Marc Abrams suggests that white-tailed deer browsing has not impacted forest canopies, but rather slowed the densification process. Forests are becoming increasingly dense due to a lack of fire and increased deer populations.
New research shows that particle transport in crowded cells can be faster than in non-crowded environments, especially when moving from densely crowded areas to less crowded ones. The study used microfluidics and tracer colloids to investigate the effects of non-uniformly distributed crowding molecules on particle movement.
Research reveals that giraffes with calves prioritize predator avoidance over food in areas with high lion populations. Human presence also plays a role, with giraffes seeking safety near traditional pastoralist compounds.
Research reveals that Christian churches can provide essential support to Chinese international students in the US, addressing cultural shock, language barriers, and academic challenges. The 'Chinese Home Church' community offers a welcoming environment for students to share their experiences and emotions.
Researchers trained an AI model using human-generated clickbait data, resulting in improved performance compared to other systems. The study found differences in headline creation between humans and machines, highlighting the need for high-quality training data to improve machine learning models.
Researchers identify VPS13A gene associated with migratory behavior in golden-winged and blue-winged warblers, shedding light on the complex genetic factors behind bird migration. The study's findings may have important conservation implications for declining populations of these species.
Penn State researchers developed a testing protocol using existing water chemistry tests to detect new methane gas leaks from oil and gas drilling. The study found 17 out of 20,751 samples showing possible signs of methane contamination, highlighting the potential for widespread methane migration.
Scientists have found that Wolbachia's ability to block virus transmission may be maintained by natural selection, alleviating concerns about its long-term effectiveness. The study identified a gene within A. aegypti mosquitoes involved in Wolbachia's blocking trait.
A new study led by Penn State researchers found that people with restless legs syndrome (RLS) have a nearly tripled risk of suicide or self-harm. Despite controlling for factors such as depression and insomnia, the study suggests that RLS may be an independent variable contributing to these mental health issues.
Researchers at Penn State found that harmless bacteria form biofilms that shelter Listeria monocytogenes in apple-packing facilities. This discovery may lead to alternative strategies for controlling foodborne pathogens.
A centuries-old Italian winemaking tradition is under threat from shifting rainfall patterns, leading to earlier grape harvests and reduced flavor complexity. Intense precipitation events are exacerbating the effects of global warming on premium wines.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered that the genomes of luminescent bacteria contain two copies of a gene required for the type VI secretion system (T6SS), which is used to kill neighboring cells. Disabling either copy of the gene still allows the T6SS system to function, but not both, revealing functional redundancy.
A new approach developed at Penn State's Center for Advanced Data Assimilation and Predictability Techniques can accurately forecast the intensity and trajectory of Hurricane Harvey. The method uses data from the GOES-16 satellite and Penn State's all-sky radiance technique, which more accurately models hurricanes.
A new study provides the most accurate estimate of the frequency that planets similar to Earth occur around sun-like stars, which will be important for designing future astronomical missions. The researchers' novel approach allows them to account for several effects not included in previous studies.
A three-site study in the Blue Marsh watershed found seasonal differences in microbial populations, with increases in warmer months and higher levels of nitrate and phosphate. The researchers used Biolog Ecoplates to test water samples, revealing changes in bacterial counts and chemical profiles linked to human activities.
A new study from Penn State found that simultaneous alcohol and marijuana use is associated with heavier drinking, more frequent consumption, and higher levels of sensation-seeking characteristics. Individuals who used both substances simultaneously were also more likely to experience alcohol-related problems.
Researchers found that wet basins are more effective at removing nitrate from the water by converting it to gaseous nitrogen. Designing basins to hold water from the beginning could decrease production of nitrous oxides and mitigate eutrophication in bodies of water.
Researchers found that Asian longhorned beetle larvae can consume tree tissues that their parents cannot, allowing them to thrive on a wider range of hosts. This discovery explains how the beetle expands its range and poses a threat to vulnerable species in North American forests.
New research from Penn State suggests that freedom songs sung by Black women helped empower them to lead others when formal leadership positions were unavailable. These songs, which originated in the 1920s or earlier, were altered to reflect the struggles of the time and became a powerful form of resistance.
Researchers recreated barn owl brain circuitry in electronics, mimicking the ability to locate prey using sound to within one to two degrees. The electronic circuit can supersede the owl's precision by orders of magnitude and may lead to more accurate and energy-efficient navigation devices.
Researchers found that men and women were more likely to question each other's sexual orientation if they engaged in non-conforming environmental behaviors. Women were also more likely to avoid men who preferred masculine behaviors. The study highlights the social consequences of gendered pro-environmental behaviors.
Researchers estimate that opioid misuse reduced state tax revenue by over $11 billion and increased Medicaid costs associated with opioid use disorder to more than $3 billion. The study also found significant costs to the child welfare system, criminal justice system, and education sector.
Tracy Langkilde has been recognized for her research on how animals adapt to changes in their environments. She has studied the behavior of lizards towards fire ants and explored the impact of noise pollution on frogs' communication abilities.