The new center combines multiple research areas, including molecular devices, nanofabrication, and selective chemistry. Regular seminars feature the researchers of the Center for Nanoscale Science.
A team of researchers reanalyzed the data from Boas' 1912 study on cranial measurements, finding that genetic factors dominate variation in head shape. The study's results contradict Boas' claims that environmental influences are the primary driver of cranial plasticity.
A recent study by Penn State found that disabled seniors formerly on SSDI spend significantly more on prescription drugs than the rest of the Medicare population. The study discovered that nearly half of these seniors spent 10% or more of their income on medication, highlighting a pressing concern for this vulnerable population.
A virtual stomach simulation reveals how pills break down and release medication in the stomach, with key findings including three distinct zones and effects of buoyancy on mixing and drug release. The technology aims to improve extended-release tablet formulations and shed light on diseases involving stomach motility.
A team of researchers led by A. Welford Castleman Jr. has discovered exactly how an acid compound dissolves molecule by molecule using water molecules as a solvent. The study found that the interaction of four surrounding water molecules with the hydrogen-bromide molecule tips the energy balance, triggering its eventual dissolution.
A new software-based approach developed by Penn State engineers allows subscriber signals to be processed ahead of others experiencing strong co-channel interference, improving efficiency and minimizing interference in wireless local loops.
Key findings from a study suggest that patients prioritize personal service, therapist listening skills, and clear explanations over facility amenities. Researchers surveyed over 1,868 participants and found that adequate time spent on individual patient care is vital for patient satisfaction.
Researchers developed a new circuit that harnesses vibrations to generate up to 50 milliwatts of power, surpassing the output of simple energy harvesting circuits. The adaptive piezoelectric energy harvesting circuit can be used in various applications, including wearable devices, sensor networks, and smart home security systems.
Active mountains, despite constant uplift, do not get taller because of erosion forces balancing uplift and sediment transport. Researchers found that river erosion rates closely match the rate at which rocks move up, with abrasion by suspended particles doing most of the down cutting.
A study found that mentally ill individuals are vulnerable to victimization in conflict situations, particularly those with substance abuse disorders or delusional beliefs. Counseling services can help family members and professionals cope with these individuals while avoiding conflicts.
A new class of composites has been developed that can store electric charge more efficiently, enabling the creation of artificial muscles and tendons with improved motion. The material also has potential applications in microfluidic systems for drug delivery and smart skins for drag reduction.
A new study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that oral contraceptive use during adolescence is not associated with weight gain or increased body fat. Researchers monitored 66 female participants, aged 16-21, for four years, tracking their blood lipid patterns and body composition.
Researchers at Penn State have identified a protein, km23, that is defective in nearly half of human cancer tissues. Alterations in this protein disrupt cell signaling, leading to tumor growth and spreading. The team hopes to develop drugs targeting km23 to prevent tumor progression and diagnose specific cancers.
Scientists at Penn State have developed a voltage-controlled, two-color bipolar LEC that can produce yellow and red light, paving the way for efficient and stable full-color displays. The technology has high luminance intensity, efficiency, fast response time, and long-term stability, making it suitable for flat-panel applications.
A study of Puerto Rican women found that their level of satisfaction with obstetrical care is significantly influenced by institutional settings, medical staff characteristics, and the continuity of care. Latino physicians are culturally sensitive, but their ethnicity does not affect patient satisfaction.
In 19th century US, religion was used to justify white superiority, fueling Manifest Destiny and racial hierarchy. This 'double fantasy' of common identity and divine mission ultimately clashed with social realities, revealing the complexities of White American identity.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a system to remove hydrogen odorant using adsorbers, enabling the use of pure hydrogen in fuel cells. The system also addresses hydrogen storage concerns by utilizing a metal hydride system based on magnesium, which is stable up to 554 degrees Fahrenheit.
A recent study by Bridget Goosby suggests that maternal mental health and warmth can mitigate the negative effects of poverty on adolescents, while education plays a role in promoting self-worth. The study found that experiencing poverty between ages 0-4 has the strongest impact on early adolescent self-worth.
The study found that many low-income single parents experience close to full-time jobs with brief periods of lay-off or lower hours. They often struggle to make ends meet due to limited benefits from their employers, leading to a weaker safety net for children.
The study highlights how low-income families struggle with health problems that significantly impact their ability to transition from welfare to permanent work. The researchers found that caregivers often neglect their own health needs to care for family members, and there are gaps in coverage and access to services.
A study found that husbands attach a higher probability to working full time after age 62 compared to wives. Wives' pension wealth is less, but marriage provides financial security, influencing their retirement decisions.
Scientists have discovered a chain of cellular events that occurs in plant cells when exposed to environmental stress, ultimately leading to the production of protective proteins. The research, led by Sarah M. Assmann, found that a hormone called abscisic acid regulates the processing of RNA molecules involved in stress response.
Researchers found that mycorrhizal fungi can increase nitrogen fixation in legumes, improving soil fertility for corn production. Legumes like lablab show promise as a solution to enhance soil fertility without fertilizers.
A study by Penn State researchers found that jet contrails altered the average daily temperature range in the United States during a three-day commercial air shutdown in September 2001. The diurnal temperature range increased by 1.8 degrees Celsius, with daytime temperatures being higher and nighttime temperatures lower without contrails.
Researchers from Penn State College of Medicine developed a new measurement technique to assess norepinephrine release in tissues adjacent to blood vessels. This improvement allows for more accurate data on the hormone's role in vasoconstriction and maintains adequate blood pressure when standing up.
The consortium aims to reveal secrets of the Archaea domain, a grouping thought to include organisms with ancient evolutionary lineages. Researchers will study the structure and function of genes and proteins in this domain.
Scientists at Penn State University have identified a new gene essential for pollen production in flowering plants. The team used genetic techniques to discover the gene, which is necessary for the formation of cells required for pollen production.
Recent research suggests that West Antarctic ice streams are experiencing normal variability, contrary to predictions of imminent shutdown and sea-level rise. The study found that local conditions, such as geothermal heat and frictional forces, drive the slowdown or speeding up of ice streams.
Researchers have developed a computer model to visualize gravitational waves produced by black-hole mergers, providing insight into Einstein's theory of general relativity. The model predicts that the waves will be relatively weak until moments before the merger, culminating in a thunderous impact.
Researchers found that blocking interleukin-1 can prevent additional brain tissue damage, suggesting a new potential treatment for traumatic brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases. By inhibiting IL-1, macrophage activation is reduced, leading to less inflammation and cell death.
A study by Penn State researchers found that deformed frogs are linked to the combination of parasite infection and pesticide exposure. The research, which included experimental studies in ponds where the animals live, may help explain how environmental stress affects disease outbreaks in frogs.
Agricultural plastics, such as mulch films and nursery pots, are difficult to recycle due to their varied types and dirtiness. Penn State researcher James Garthe has developed a method to convert these plastics into plastic nuggets that can be burned with coal, producing energy 20 times greater than conventional recycling methods.
A two-year survey of nurses' unions and associations in 76 countries found that understaffing is the most frequently cited work-related problem. Nurses worldwide rank improved patient care and salaries as their top priorities, with stress, workplace bullying, and violence being significant concerns.
A study by Dr. Eileen Trauth found that women in IT face unique challenges depending on their cultural background, family support, and personal experiences. The researcher suggests that respecting individual differences and providing tailored encouragement can help women resist social shaping and succeed in the field.
A CDC report confirms that residents of Appalachia, particularly those in rural areas, face higher risks of dying from cancer. The study, conducted by the Appalachian Cancer Network, shows significantly higher death rates for lung and cervical cancers in rural Appalachia compared to the national average.
These sensors can detect temperature changes, stress, viscosity, liquid density, and surface tension without wires or connectors. They use magnetoelastic thin-film technology to generate harmonics that change as the environment around them alters.
Working parents spend the same amount of time physically present in school as non-parents, but find ways to care for their children by reducing personal time and leisure activities. Teachers with older children also contribute to childcare by taking on extra duties.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have discovered that a protein previously thought to be in the nucleus resides in the cytoplasm, correcting a scientific theory since 1992. This finding offers new parameters for understanding gene switches and their role in human diseases.
Research suggests that wives' full-time employment increases marital stability, contrary to common assumptions. The study found no negative impact on marital happiness but a decrease in risk of subsequent marital disruption.
Astronomers at Penn State have discovered three faint dwarf stars orbiting nearby bright stars, marking a new era in imaging faint objects. The discovery uses an infrared camera with a specially shaped pupil mask, allowing for improved contrast and revealing the dim companions.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to increase hydrogen production from fermentation by 43%, utilizing industrial wastewater as feedstock. This approach can potentially make hydrogen a cheaper fuel alternative to gasoline, while also reducing costs for wastewater treatment plants.
Researchers analyzed seismic activity from six stations in West Antarctica, discovering a significant number of small earthquakes. The study confirms that West Antarctica is prone to earthquakes due to its rift-like nature.
Scientists have developed new methods to characterize diamonds, allowing them to link the stones' properties to their mine of origin. This study aims to shed light on plate tectonics, the Earth's formation, and processes deep in the Earth.
Researchers aim to better understand West Africa's climate trends and model potential impacts on the region's water resources, agriculture, and energy sector. The study's findings could help inform regional plans for adapting to climate change and ensure the long-term sustainability of hydroelectric power.
Research by Penn State's King found that ever-divorced grandparents live farther away from their grandchildren than married grandparents. Grandfathers report less contact and higher conflict with grandchildren compared to grandmothers. However, a good parent-grandparent relationship can mitigate the negative influence of divorce.
A study by Dr. Scott Myers and Dr. Alan Booth found that sons rely on more factors than daughters to become forerunners, with early family life in a two-parent household playing a crucial role. In contrast, women tend to develop egalitarian attitudes through education and entering the workforce.
A recent study by Penn State researchers found that urban forest fires have led to increased tree density of specific species in New York City's undeveloped parklands. In contrast, an old-growth urban forest in Cleveland, Ohio, has remained stable with no history of forest fires since 1935.
A study of older brother/sister twin pairs found that men and women had similar numbers of illnesses, with the exception of very life-threatening conditions. Women reported more total health problems and physical symptoms, while men had more cardiovascular conditions.
The Odor Index is a new tool that relates the concentration of odorants to human perception, providing a comparative scale for measuring odors. The technology has shown significant reductions in odors in wastewater treatment plants and other industries.
A recent genome study by Penn State researchers overturns a popular hypothesis on species relationships between humans, fruit flies, and nematode worms. The classic Coelomata hypothesis was based on the comparison of structural similarities among these species, but the new findings support this long-standing theory.