Researchers used a novel technique to study the diets of ancient humans, Australopithecus africanus and Paranthropus robustus. The analysis revealed significant overlap in their diets, with P. robustus consuming both hard and tough foods.
A study by Dr. Mihai Covasa and colleagues found that a high-fat diet can reduce the body's sensitivity to cholecystokinin, a hormone that helps regulate appetite, in rats. This reduced sensitivity leads to increased overconsumption of highly palatable foods high in dietary fat.
The Penn State Regional Center will conduct research on climate change's effects on regional terrestrial ecosystems, including the Northeast region with high population density and urbanization. The center aims to develop models predicting climate change impacts and analyze carbon exchange between ecosystems and the atmosphere.
Researchers tested a new software called R-CAST in a military command-and-control simulation, where human teams made incorrect decisions under pressure. The software improved team performance by sharing information and identifying key information quickly, enabling humans to maintain acceptable decision-making levels.
A study by Penn State researchers found that invasive brushy honeysuckle hybridized with the Rhagoletis pomonella fruit fly, creating a new insect species. The discovery suggests that hybridization is a common mechanism for speciation in animals, similar to what occurs in plants.
Despite similar educational backgrounds, IT women earn on average $15,000 less than men and are 2.5 times more likely to leave the industry. Organizations need to recognize these differences and provide support for part-time work arrangements, job sharing, and child-care subsidies.
A new artificial intelligence-based drying process for wood products could significantly reduce energy costs and improve product quality. The proposed method analyzes the kiln environment to predict optimal conditions and minimize deviations, potentially saving the $250 billion US wood industry millions of dollars.
The 'Deep Impact' collision released tens of thousands of tons of material, enough to bury a football field under 30 feet of comet dust. Scientists are analyzing X-ray data to better understand the evaporation process on comets and their interaction with solar wind.
Researchers found that providing nutrition information at point-of-selection increased sales of lower-fat and calorie foods. Students opted for healthier options, such as plain cheese pizza instead of pepperoni, and chose dishes with fewer calories but similar fat content.
A study found significant variation among pediatricians in interpreting 'reasonable suspicion' for child abuse, with varying thresholds and inconsistent responses. This discrepancy has profound implications for victims, families, and caregivers, emphasizing the need for standardized guidelines and training.
Swift detected a quick rise in ultraviolet light after the Deep Impact probe struck a hard surface on the comet, revealing secrets about the impact.
A new Penn State study found that a balanced diet with both polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) is essential for lowering cholesterol levels. The study compared two heart-healthy oils, sunflower oil and olive oil, in a diet designed to reduce blood cholesterol.
Researchers can analyze patient demographics, clinical data, and gene expression using the online toolbox. The platform enables integrated analysis of diverse data sets, potentially leading to better disease diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new type of ultrathin film made from spherical cages of carbon atoms, which can enable more precise patterning of electronic and sensing devices. The material's unique properties allow for easier replacement of molecules, expanding the range of molecular components that can be incorporated.
Researchers have found that adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) can selectively kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact. The study suggests that AAV2 recognizes abnormal cancer cells and induces apoptosis, making it a promising candidate for an anti-cancer therapy.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that individuals with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels cannot lower their LDL-cholesterol numbers with a Step 1 diet, even when soy protein is added. The study suggests that habitual consumption of a Step 1 diet may be beneficial for those with low CRP levels but delete...
The new assessment tool, ADAPT, provides a platform for tracking participant data by demographics, activities, and institution data warehouses. The researchers found that comprehensive assessment techniques can help evaluate and revamp existing programs, leading to better outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
A team of researchers found that plant-insect interactions were diverse and abundant in Patagonia 52 million years ago. The study reveals a legacy of ancient biodiversity that will help understand modern South American diversity.
A recent study by Penn State researchers found that senior citizens are becoming more supportive of educational spending, defying expectations. The data contradicts long-held assumptions about the role of aging and retirement in shaping attitudes towards school funding.
Researchers found that women who exercised during and after chemotherapy had improved activated lymphocytes and reduced inflammation. The exercise program improved physical functions and overall quality of life compared to non-exercisers.
A study by Penn State researchers found that 80% of participants preferred organic search results over sponsored links. Despite identical content, participants rated sponsored links as less relevant due to biased perception. To address this, businesses should prioritize organic visibility alongside paid advertising.
A study of 589 college students found that parents are the primary source of information about credit cards, with a significant negative relationship between parental influence and credit use. Educational institutions can reassess their personal finance education to better prepare students for managing credit.
Penn State researchers are using neutron activation analysis to measure gold in tree rings and link them to volcanic eruptions. By analyzing the rings' chemical composition, they can identify patterns and correlations with known volcanic events.
Researchers monitoring two PennDOT-installed data loggers measure high salt levels in runoff wetland, reaching half the salinity of seawater. The effects on species and soil quality are still unknown but may include decreased midge populations and increased algae growth.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new ceramide-based therapy that targets and destroys breast cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The treatment uses liposomes to deliver ceramide to the tumor, where it disrupts mitochondria and causes cell death.
Researchers at Penn State are developing new approaches to integrating control and condition monitoring systems for Intelligent Vehicle Health Management. This will enable equipment to continue operating when something breaks or is about to fail, reducing the need for human intervention on long, unmanned deep space missions.
Researchers used various models to recreate the rupture history and variation along the fault, revealing the earthquake's length, epicenter, and speed. The study provided valuable insights into one of the largest earthquakes recorded on modern equipment.
Researchers have developed a new purification process that combines high throughput with high selectivity, enabling more fine separations. By attaching a negatively-charged dye molecule to the protein of interest, retention is enhanced in higher proportion than when it wasn't tagged.
Researchers found that Varroa mites reduce bee immunity by suppressing the production of chemicals that sterilize honey, allowing bacteria to increase. This combination with deformed wing virus is causing two-week death collapses in hives across the US.
A new mathematical model, PSP, offers improved predictions of transistor behavior, particularly in high-frequency and miniaturized devices. The model, which focuses on surface potential at the silicon-silicon dioxide interface, has been successfully tested on simulations and measurements.
A recent study published in Diabetes journal found that minocycline limits retinal damage caused by microglia cells in diabetic rats. The antibiotic reduces neuroinflammation and activation of microglia, resulting in less nerve cell death and improved vision outcomes.
Proconsul, a 18 million-year-old creature, holds the key to human and ape origins. The book provides an insider's view on fossil discovery and interpretation, exploring Proconsul's anatomy, diet, and habits.
A new study found that spacing out insulin given by an insulin pump in two doses, one over eight hours, can keep glucose levels more favorable than a single dose or double dose taken over shorter periods. This method showed improved blood glucose control after a pizza meal without causing hypoglycemic events.
AESEDA aims to entice minority students to enroll in Penn State's College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, with a focus on Africa connection. The program involves partnerships with HBCUs and Nigerian universities to develop natural resources and energy management in Africa.
Dr. Chen will use his Guggenheim Fellowship to research the structures and properties of ferroelectric and multiferroic thin films with potential applications in various functional devices. He aims to develop theories and multiscale computational models for predicting their behaviors.
A study led by Penn State University assistant professor Theresa Vescio found that patronizing behavior, characterized by giving subordinates praise while withholding resources, can lead to negative performance outcomes for women. This subtle form of sexism may allow discriminatory practices to go unnoticed.
A new sensor system combining flame photometer, ion mobility spectrometer and surface acoustic wave array detects chemical vapors with high accuracy. The PSU-developed CINET software reduces false alarms by correlating data from multiple detectors.
A new microbial fuel cell process can produce high yields of hydrogen from biodegradable organic matter in wastewater. This technology uses a small amount of electricity to boost bacterial fermentation, overcoming the 'fermentation barrier' and producing clean hydrogen gas while simultaneously cleaning the wastewater.
Less competition in the healthcare industry is linked to improved health plan performance on measures such as women's care and member satisfaction. However, the relationship between competition and quality is complex and requires further research.
A study on the geography of education found that homeschoolers represent a significant segment of the education universe, estimated at 20% of privately-schooled population in the US. The number of homeschoolers has grown in states with low to moderate regulation, but data is still limited due to varying reporting requirements.
A warmer climate could lead to increased road salt use due to more precipitation falling as sleet and freezing rain, but this might also reduce ski traffic and winter economy. The study aims to model climate change impacts on salt and sand usage in the Adirondack Park.
The NASA-led Swift mission has successfully measured the distances to two gamma-ray bursts, both originating from over 9 billion light years away. These direct distance measurements, achieved with Swift's Ultraviolet/OpticalTelescope (UVOT), represent a major milestone for the mission since its launch in 2004.
A study conducted in South Africa found that mild iron deficiency in mothers can disrupt healthy mother/infant interactions. The research showed that mildly iron-deficient mothers were less sensitive to their baby's cues and appeared bored or distant more frequently, leading to changes in child behavior.
A Penn State-led education program has significantly reduced incidents of shaken baby syndrome in western New York, resulting in a 47% decrease in cases. The program, which costs less than $10 per infant, provides critical information to parents at the time of birth and is designed to be implemented with minimal time and resources.
The SAA's Book Award recognizes 'Ancient Mexico & Central America' for its impact on archaeological research and understanding of Mesoamerica's cultural history. The book, written by Penn State adjunct professor Evans, is an informative and fun guide to the region.
A new protocol provides incentives for federal agencies to trust each other and share accurate, complete information in a timely manner. This increases the efficiency of information sharing and builds trust between organizations.
Oaxacan migrants prioritize family and community over individual gain, using remittances to fulfill obligations and maintain social status. Most migrants return home for no more than a year to support households, construct homes, and pay for education.
A Penn State study shows that including spending in other service sectors reduces the between-community cost difference from 81% to 18%. The system of care approach also improves youth's chances of finishing high school and making a successful transition to adulthood.
Researchers discovered that targeting mutant B-Raf protein can prevent the spread of melanoma and halt tumor growth. Lowering mutant B-Raf activity reduced melanoma development in human cells, providing a potential breakthrough for treating this aggressive form of skin cancer.
Most cancer survivors can return to work after treatment, but a minority face ongoing problems requiring comprehensive support services. The study found that similar numbers of men and women stop working during treatment, with the lowest rates among those with certain types of cancer.