Researchers analyzed data on nearly 3,000 hospitals from 2006 to 2011, finding that financially weak and safety-net hospitals struggled to recover from the recession. Despite rebounding by 2011, these institutions continue to face significant financial gaps with non-safety-net hospitals.
A new measurement model reveals that human rights are actually improving, contrary to common claims. The model takes into account changes in data collection and categorization, showing more countries with better human rights records.
Research indicates that coyote predation on fawns in the East may not be significant enough to cause deer population decline, especially with reduced doe harvests. In contrast, extremely low doe survival rates combined with high fawn mortality support stabilization of Eastern deer populations.
Researchers have developed conducting polymer films decorated with biomolecules to facilitate cell growth, adhesion, and manipulation. The films are created through hydrogel stamps and can be tailored to various shapes, sizes, and surface properties.
Researchers discovered a fungus that can completely eradicate tree-of-heaven plants, including sprouts. The treatment has shown promise as a bio-control agent to combat the invasive species' rapid spread across the US.
Sprites form at plasma irregularities in the lower ionosphere, a phenomenon that can be useful for remote sensing of the region. The researchers used high-speed videos and fluid models to study sprite dynamics and determine the origin of the irregularities.
Researchers found that top-rated health and fitness apps typically use fewer than four behavior-change techniques, with most focusing on instruction, feedback, and goal-setting. The study highlights the need for developers to incorporate more effective techniques in their apps.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new metamaterial with high absorption over broad bandwidth, providing better protection against electromagnetic radiation. The material is designed using genetic algorithms and can be easily manufactured due to its simple layer structure.
A team of researchers found a strong correlation between the number of insect species and the types of damage they cause to leaves in modern tropical forests. The study also compared these findings with fossil data from ancient settings, showing consistency in how insects have divided up their leaf resources over time.
Scientists have discovered several new species of Sub-Saharan African Ensign wasps that exhibit transverse fore wing folding, a unique mechanism previously seen only in earwigs, cockroaches, and beetles. This discovery has potential applications in aerospace and bio-inspired technologies.
A team of researchers led by David Hughes is studying the role of group size, complexity, and connectedness in driving infectious disease transmission. By analyzing ant colonies, they aim to develop strategies to reduce the spread of diseases, including those affecting humans in schools, hospitals, and farms.
Researchers developed antimicrobial edible films using pullulan and essential oils, which significantly inhibit bacterial pathogens in meat and poultry. The films provide immediate and sustained kill of bacteria, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
Researchers at Penn State found that smokers who gained weight in past attempts to quit are less likely to seek treatment. Clinicians can address concerns about weight maintenance in treatment plans, suggesting a targeted approach to support quitters.
Penn State researchers found that older adults fear companion robots will negatively affect young people, leading to design challenges for developers. To address this concern, robot designers may need to include parental controls to monitor children's use of robots and prevent dependency.
Research suggests that social media companies can reduce stress and defections by giving users more control over new interfaces. Users who feel in control adapt better to changes by focusing on solving problems rather than emotions. Companies can improve site longevity by being responsive to user feedback.
Researchers found that mobile users tend to distrust sites with instant gratification messages, and are more willing to share sensitive information after viewing security alerts. This phenomenon suggests that users prioritize privacy over convenience in digital interactions.
Astronomers have discovered the coldest known brown dwarf star, located just 7.2 light-years from our solar system. The object, named WISE J085510.83-071442.5, has a temperature between -54 and 9 degrees Fahrenheit, making it even colder than previous record holders.
A team of astronomers has developed a viable model for the planetary system orbiting the star 55 Cancri, solving long-standing mysteries about the masses and orbits of its two giant planets. The study reveals that their particular masses and orbits are preventing the system from self-destructing anytime soon.
Researchers found that Partnering for Health Services, a clinic in Pennsylvania, saved $201,414 annually by lowering emergency room visits and admissions. The clinic's model also showed improved patient outcomes due to more frequent care visits.
Researchers found that different LED light sources render white differently, affecting product appearance. Participants struggled to distinguish between cards under blue-pumped LEDs, highlighting the need for spectrum engineering to accurately render whiteness.
A recent study found that severe droughts and repeated fires in the Amazon lead to high tree mortality rates, with 60% of trees dying in a single experiment. The researchers warn that climate change will exacerbate this issue, making it essential to implement policies and programs to control forest fires and prevent deforestation.
Scientists discover the first Earth-size planet in the habitable zone of a different star, confirming that planets like Earth exist elsewhere. The newly discovered planet, Kepler-186f, is 10% larger than Earth and located comfortably in its star's habitable zone, where liquid water could potentially exist on its surface.
Researchers found East African honeybees resistant to invasive parasites, but preliminary data suggests habitat loss and drought may be major factors driving colony declines. The study recommends protecting nesting habitats and native flowering plants to maintain healthy bee populations.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to manufacture porous silicon using solar energy, which can generate hydrogen from water when exposed to sunlight. The material's high surface area and nanoscale size enable it to act as an effective catalyst, aiding in the production of hydrogen gas.
Researchers will study amounts and types of aerosols influencing cloud formation in the Amazonia region. The three-year project aims to understand how the Amazon rainforest influences storm formation and internal water cycling.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that breast cancer cell subpopulation cooperation can lead to increased tumor growth. The study discovered that two distinct subclones within mammary tumors relied on each other to expand, with one producing a protein called Wnt1 that promoted tumor growth.
Researchers at Penn State have redefined the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), finding that its true signal was likely in a cooling phase in recent decades. This shift may have offset some of the anthropogenic warming, resulting in a temporary slowdown in global warming.
A study found that restaurant chefs and food purchasing managers prefer buying local foods with quick response times, accurate labeling, and training staff on local food handling. This was revealed in a Penn State research project investigating management's attitudes toward purchasing locally grown foods.
Researchers will investigate a gut parasite that negatively impacts honey bees, analyze pesticide effects, and model ecosystem stability in response to extinctions and invasions.
Researchers have developed a saliva-powered, micro-sized microbial fuel cell that produces nearly 1 microwatt of power. The device uses graphene and bacteria from the natural environment to create energy, paving the way for portable biomedical devices with built-in power sources.
A study found that popular students are more likely to be bullied and experience severe consequences, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Meanwhile, girls who date are at increased risk of physical violence, highlighting the complexities of social dynamics in bullying cases.
Researchers found that customers perceive restaurants as socially responsible when provided with nutrition facts and healthful options, leading to increased patronage. Highly health-conscious individuals are more likely to favor such restaurants, regardless of the presence of nutrition information.
A study by Penn State researchers found that when cereal flakes are reduced in size, participants pour a smaller volume but still consume more calories. The researchers tested the influence of food volume on calorie intake and found that subjects underestimated their calorie consumption despite consuming larger volumes.
A mathematical model developed by Penn State researchers can accurately predict blood glucose levels of individuals with type 1 diabetes up to 30 minutes in advance. This allows for timely action to be taken and reduces the risk of hypoglycemic events, which can be life-threatening.
Researchers found that adult day care services increase DHEA-S levels in caregivers, a protective response to chronic stress and disease. This study suggests that using adult day care services may help reduce the negative effects of caregiving on physical health.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that school hearing tests cannot effectively detect noise exposure-induced high-frequency hearing loss in adolescents. The tests primarily focus on low-frequency hearing loss and may not accurately identify hearing issues caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new method to link genetic markers with facial features, allowing for the extraction of individual gene effects on facial shape. This breakthrough could lead to improved forensic analysis and better understanding of human genetics.
Researchers suggest active mediation and monitoring online behavior over blanket rules to guide teens in making safe moral decisions. Parents who learn about technology can better engage with their children, while those with lower digital literacy may rely on restrictions.
A study published in Agricultural Systems found that planting cover crops increases eight of eleven ecosystem services, including carbon and nitrogen retention, erosion prevention, and weed suppression. The research highlights the importance of considering temporal dynamics when assessing management system effects on ecosystem services.
The new Center for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics expands research capabilities with industry partners, focusing on high energy-density capacitors, flexible electronics, and piezotronic transistors. The center will leverage partnerships to support new products and processes.
A study found that adolescent girls who avoided painful thoughts and emotions were more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after child maltreatment. In contrast, those who openly discussed their experiences had lower PTSD symptoms.
Apert syndrome is caused by FGFR2 mutations, leading to early bone fusion, mid-facial deformation, and cognitive impairment. Researchers found that 3D imaging can estimate growth patterns and anticipate surgical outcomes, potentially improving patient-centered care.
Research found that people with math anxiety struggle to comprehend messages about genetically modified foods, while those with high math skills and confidence can better understand. The study highlights the importance of improving math skills and building confidence in math abilities.
Overweight pregnant women who believe they are 'eating for two' tend to experience excessive weight gain, while those with a goal-oriented approach and healthy habits gain appropriate weight. Monitoring weight gain during pregnancy can help prevent future complications and obesity.
Researchers at Penn State have identified major protein components in brown marmorated stink bug saliva, revealing distinct profiles for watery and sheath salivas. This breakthrough may lead to new pest control methods by targeting specific factors essential to feeding behavior.
Researchers at Penn State used a real-time convection-permitting hurricane analysis and forecasting system to accurately predict Hurricane Sandy's path, intensity, and rainfall. The system compared favorably to operational global models, showcasing its potential for improving storm prediction.
A study published in The Gerontologist reveals that parents' attitudes towards giving help to their grown children can impact their mental health. Researchers found significant interactions between tangible support and feelings of reward, as well as nontangible support and stress, in explaining parents' depressive symptoms.
A team of scientists at Penn State University has detected water vapor in the atmosphere of a hot-Jupiter exoplanet, tau Boötis b. This discovery could help researchers understand how many planets like Earth exist throughout the universe and provides new insights into the formation and evolution of exotic hot-Jupiter planets.
Researchers have discovered a key protein, AP2-G, essential for the development of male and female sexual forms of the malaria parasite. The protein triggers the production of gametocytes, which are infectious to mosquitos, offering clues for identifying transmission mechanisms.
Researchers found that a two-way approach can be more effective in reducing health disparities due to social stigma. Interventions at the individual level, such as educational approaches, can be combined with structural changes, like legislative reforms, to achieve better outcomes.