A comprehensive workplace wellness program, iThrive, was found to have no significant effect on employee health measures or medical use. However, it did improve self-reported health beliefs and the proportion of employees reporting having a primary care physician.
A new review links dozens of environmental chemicals to changes in the gut microbiome, associated with health challenges such as reproductive defects, Type 2 diabetes, and poor immune function. Exposure to bisphenols and phthalates has been linked to altered hormone metabolism and microbial shifts.
A new study suggests that corn was not grown in Cahokia until between A.D. 900 and 1000, a relatively late date corresponding to the start of the city's rapid expansion. The researchers analyzed charred corn kernels and carbon isotopes in human teeth and bones, revealing a sudden increase in corn consumption around this time.
Researchers identify critical components for finding environmentally sustainable solutions to food security in the face of climate change. A better representation of physiological responses and crop management are essential for simulating crop growth under stressed conditions accurately.
Researchers confirm that the Earth's inner core is rotating, contradicting previous studies suggesting it was stationary. The new evidence comes from analyzing seismic data from repeating earthquakes and precise arrival time analysis.
Researchers developed a compound that significantly reduced amyloid plaques, lessened brain inflammation, and diminished molecular markers of Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that drugs targeting different regions of amyloid-beta protein fragments and metal ions could improve outcomes for people with Alzheimer's.
Researchers at the University of Illinois used nanostimulators to boost stem cells' regenerative powers, increasing blood flow and oxygen levels in ischemic limbs. The treatment showed improvements in mobility and strength, offering a promising approach for muscle repair.
Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed spinobots that can walk using a rat muscle and spinal cord tissue. The integration of the spinal cord gives them a natural walking rhythm, which could have implications for neurocomputing and restorative medicine.
Researchers found that IAPV-infected honey bees are more likely to be accepted by foreign colonies, engaging in increased trophallaxis with guards. The infected bees also exhibit distinct chemical profiles, suggesting a changed behavior meant to appease the guards.
A new study suggests that interventions targeting biological, social, environmental and mental health obstacles are most effective in helping individuals overcome non-medical drug use. For alcohol addiction, simple interventions focusing on alcohol use yield the best results.
A new, $50 smartphone-based testing device can detect viral and bacterial pathogens in under 30 minutes, providing a rapid solution for pandemic testing. The device uses a small cartridge containing reagents that break open the pathogen's outer shell to gain access to its RNA.
A new study finds that cultural orientation significantly affects how individuals perceive the relationship between power and status. In cultures with a vertical collectivist orientation, powerful leaders are often seen as having high status, while in horizontal collectivistic cultures, high-status individuals are viewed as powerful. T...
A new study reveals that cicada wings are coated in a stew of hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and oxygen-containing molecules, which contribute to their ability to repel water and kill microbes. The ratio of surface chemicals differs between two cicada species, and altering the surface chemicals changes the nanopillar structure.
A new study finds that a type of fungus can cut the soybean cyst nematode's reproductive success by more than half, reducing yield losses of over $1 billion annually. The fungus, Funneliformis mosseae, reduces nematode egg hatching and juvenile nematode populations, making it a potential tool for controlling the pest.
Researchers developed graphene-based sensors to measure oxygen transport in bovine lung tissue, revealing that a surfactant called cardiolipin disrupts oxygen balance in pneumonia patients. The study also found damaged spots in diseased tissue, which may be responsible for increased oxygen transfer.
Researchers found that stroke survivors who engaged in light physical activity reported fewer physical limitations than their more sedentary peers. Light physical activity was associated with improved performance on routine physical tasks and daily activities.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that physical forces alone can activate genes in human cells, leading to increased gene expression. The researchers discovered that histone proteins play a key role in determining which genes are responsive to stretching forces.
Red-winged blackbirds respond aggressively to a specific 'seet' call from yellow warblers when they detect the presence of brown-headed cowbirds. The birds also respond to other calls that signal general danger to their nests, including blue jay and cowbird chatter.
The researchers have developed a computational model of a human cell that simulates its behavior for up to 15 minutes, revealing the effects of spatial organization on genetic processes. The study provides new insights into how genes are regulated and developed, and how diseases such as cancer are formed.
Researchers at University of Illinois and Mie University discover salt-loving bacteria secret a peptide that rapidly kills lung cells, leading to acute exacerbation. The finding offers a potential new target for treating pulmonary fibrosis, a disease affecting millions worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Illinois created a crumpled graphene sensor that detects ultra-low concentrations of disease markers in blood or serum, improving sensitivity ten thousand times over current designs. This breakthrough enables rapid diagnosis and could lead to portable, handheld devices for monitoring various biomarkers.
The study reveals arginine vasotocin increases aggression, while isotocin boosts egg care, offering insight into vertebrate behavior. The findings have implications for understanding parental care and behavior across the animal kingdom.
A graduate student at the University of Illinois has discovered a new treehopper species named after Lady Gaga, showcasing the diversity of this bug group. The newly identified species, Kaikaia gaga, features unusual characteristics, including horned thoraxes and leg hairs, which differentiate it from other treehoppers.
A 12-week study found that daily avocado consumption improved attention in adults with overweight or obesity, as measured by the Flanker task. However, there was no significant impact on other cognitive tests or lutein levels
Researchers found that participants who consumed a meal while playing a computer game ate significantly less than those who ate without distractions. The study also showed that the effect of distraction on food consumption can persist even after the initial distracted eating experience.
Researchers describe cases of hearing loss in working dogs, highlighting the importance of noise protection. Hearing loss can be treated, and owners can adapt to help their pets thrive despite the condition.
35 coral species on Turks and Caicos Islands remained resilient during a severe global bleaching event. Corals that experienced bleaching quickly recovered, with some appearing healthier in 2017 than in 2014.
Researchers identified key features and events over four phases of recovery in mice with surgically narrowed arteries, creating signposts for understanding PAD and developing treatments. By using multiple imaging methods, the study aims to facilitate more optimal approaches to treatment and improve diagnosis.
A study by Yilan Xu shows that fracking-related trucking leads to a surge in road fatalities and severe accidents, with an additional 17 fatal crashes per year across sampled road segments. The researchers propose a tax or toll fee to internalize the costs of fracking-related trucking activities.
A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that myotonic dystrophy's genetic abnormalities lead to the overproduction of an alternative-splicing factor that regulates protein processing. This triggers abnormal splicing of proteins essential for heart cell function, causing cardiac conduction defects.
Scientists from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed a new CRISPR gene-editing methodology that inactivated a key gene responsible for ALS, slowing disease progression and improving muscle function. The treatment also increased overall survival in mice with aggressive forms of ALS.
Scientists have developed a new method to test microscopic aeronautical materials at ultra-high temperatures, using electron microscopy and laser heating. This breakthrough reduces the time and expense required for such tests, paving the way for the development of new materials for commercial applications.
Researchers have developed a method to accurately measure the volume of snow produced through cloud seeding using radar and other tools. The study found that cloud seeding produced about 282 Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of water in the form of snow, with snow falling from clouds for approximately 67 minutes.
A recent camera trap study in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in southern Sumatra has captured images of dozens of species, including critically endangered Sumatran tigers and Sunda pangolins. The study provides valuable insights into the habits and habitats of these rare beasts.
A new study found that two popular bariatric surgeries can change patients' sensitivity to alcohol, increasing blood alcohol concentrations by 50% after consumption. Some women experienced reduced sensitivity, reporting almost no sedative effects from alcohol.
Researchers developed a hybrid microscope that combines optical and infrared measurements with machine learning algorithms to create digital biopsies. The hybrid microscope closely correlates with traditional pathology techniques and outperforms state-of-the-art infrared microscopes in terms of resolution, consistency, and coverage.
Focusing on neutral details of a scene can weaken later memories of a disturbing event, according to a new study. The findings could lead to the development of methods to increase psychological resilience in people who experience traumatic events.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that tasting or consuming sucralose can affect blood glucose and insulin levels, even in healthy individuals. The study suggests that sweetness should be consumed in moderation regardless of calories.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has developed a game-based virtual archaeology field school to make the archaeological experience accessible to more students. Students learn archaeological techniques, dig in virtual caves, and conduct laboratory analyses using realistic tools and simulations.
The new technology uses self-rolled-up membrane technology to create compact magnetic induction devices with higher performance and reduced heat dissipation issues. Researchers have successfully boosted the performance of their 3D inductor technology, allowing for tens of millitesla-level magnetic induction.
New research shows that the slipperiness between droplets and solid surfaces is more critical for clearing condensation than previously thought. The findings could lead to cost-effective alternatives to water-repellent materials, such as ceramic or metal surfaces, which could last longer and be more durable.
Researchers developed a machine learning-based method to estimate life-years lost and cost associated with air pollution exposure. The study found that the elderly population is most vulnerable, with those with chronic conditions facing over 30 times higher mortality risk than typical Medicare beneficiaries.
A new device uses specialized polymer electrodes to reduce arsenic in water by over 90% while using less energy than traditional methods. The process is powered by electrochemical reactions, making it suitable for field deployment in areas with limited electricity.
Researchers developed a templating technique to instill order in self-assembling inorganic materials, forming new eutectic materials. The results show that these composites can have unique microstructures such as square, triangular and honeycomb-shaped structures with specific properties.
A new study suggests that luxury brands can overcome the clash between self-enhancement values and social responsibility by showcasing philanthropic activities of celebrities like Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie. This approach helps consumers reconcile their desire for status with a sense of altruism, leading to more favorable responses ...
Researchers have developed new drug compounds that inhibit the activity of FOXM1, a transcription factor that regulates cell proliferation and development. The compounds suppress tumor growth in human cells and mouse models of several types of breast cancer.
Researchers developed a technique for handling tiny, soft particles using precise fluid flows, allowing them to test the physical limits of these particles. The technique, known as the Stokes trap, was used to study the dynamics of vesicles and their deformation under different flow conditions.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a solid polymer-based electrolyte that can self-heal after damage and be recycled without harsh chemicals or high temperatures. The new material has potential as an effective battery electrolyte, but more work is needed to make it comparable to existing batteries.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technique to increase CRISPR-Cas9 efficiency, achieving up to five times higher rates of inserting genes into human cells. This breakthrough has significant implications for clinical gene-therapy applications and basic biological research.
A new study in rats suggests that caffeine may offset some of the negative effects of an obesogenic diet by reducing lipid storage and limiting weight gain. Caffeine decreased lipids in adipose cells by 20%-41% and downregulated genes associated with obesity.