A new study led by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that one year of moderate physical exercise can increase the size of the brain's hippocampus in older adults. The increased hippocampal size is associated with improved spatial memory function. The researchers also discovered a correlation between increased hippoca...
Scientists have identified 27,755 potential enzyme genes and found 57% to be active against cellulosic plant material. The bovine rumen is a promising habitat for finding plant-degrading enzymes for second-generation biofuels.
University of Illinois researchers developed a simple method to create intricate lattice structures using triblock Janus spheres. The innovative material exhibits self-assembly capabilities, enabling the creation of porous sheets with tailored properties for specialized filtering applications.
Researchers have discovered a new species of giant crayfish, Barbicambarus simmonsi, in Tennessee and Alabama, which is at least twice the size of its closest relative. The species was found under rocks in a creek and has distinctive 'bearded' antennae with setae that enhance sensory function.
Scientists have determined the structure and mechanism of a key enzyme in Staphylococcus aureus that produces cholesterol and a virulence factor. This breakthrough could lead to new cholesterol-lowering drugs and antibiotics against staph infections, as well as treatments for parasitic diseases.
Scientists have created tiny spheres that can form unusual structures by attracting and repelling each other in water, leading to the discovery of a new class of smart materials. The researchers hope to explore colloid properties and engineer more unnatural structures.
Researchers observe fractional vortex state in strontium ruthenium oxide, potentially providing basis for topological quantum computing. The discovery may offer the first experimental evidence for an exotic state of matter predicted theoretically for over 30 years.
Researchers used brain imaging techniques to analyze patterns of brain activity in the basal ganglia, predicting individual learning success in a complex task. The method showed powerful predictive power, connecting brain patterns to performance differences among participants.
A team of researchers has successfully demonstrated the molecular evolution of two competing functions from a single gene, AFP III, which helps Antarctic fish survive in frigid waters. The study confirms the ancestry of antifreeze proteins and validates a decades-old hypothesis about gene duplication.
A new study finds that outsourcing can lead to softened competition among firms, resulting in higher prices for consumers. The practice also leads to lost jobs for workers. Businesses may outsource to reduce costs, but the savings are often not passed on to consumers, instead being used to maintain profit margins.
Researchers estimate that marginal land around the globe can produce grass crops for biofuels with minimal impact on agriculture or the environment. The study suggests that low-impact high-diversity perennial grasses could produce bioenergy while maintaining grassland's natural land cover.
University of Illinois researchers create an acoustic cloak that hides underwater objects from detection, using metamaterials to manipulate sound waves. The technology has potential applications in military stealth, soundproofing, and medical imaging.
A large-scale study has found major declines in US bumble bee populations, with four species experiencing a 96% drop in relative abundance and a 23-87% loss of geographic range. The researchers attributed the decline to low genetic diversity, high infection rates with the parasite pathogen, and climate change.
A newly engineered yeast strain can simultaneously consume glucose and xylose, reducing inefficiencies in current biofuel production methods. The new strain produces more ethanol and consumes less time than existing strains, making it a significant breakthrough in cellulosic biofuel production.
Researchers at University of Illinois found that soft gel substrates promote homogeneous pluripotent stem cell cultures without expensive growth chemicals. This discovery has huge applications in regenerative medicine, offering a step toward understanding the basic biology of stem cells.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a simpler method to add iron to tiny carbon spheres, creating catalytic materials that can remove pollutants. The new technique uses ultrasonic spray pyrolysis and produces ash-free, inexpensive materials with potential applications for fuel cells and environmental remediation.
Research reveals that technology companies are targeting the US International Trade Commission (ITC) over federal district courts for smart-phone patent disputes due to its speed and expertise. The ITC's specialization in patent issues and streamlined procedure make it an attractive option for companies seeking a quick decision.
New research confirms that actively controlling learning situations boosts ability to remember information. Brain imaging revealed that the hippocampus is more engaged when individuals have control over their learning environment.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a new microscopy technique that can identify cancer cells with over 99% confidence in under five minutes. The technique uses nonlinear interferometric vibrational imaging to analyze molecular composition and produce color-coded images, providing clear tumor boundaries.
A centralized reference pool could help employers and workers by providing a legal safe harbor for employees and allowing them access to references while also enabling recourse through a neutral third party. This system would promote the flow of accurate information with low transaction costs, making labor markets more efficient.
A new study reveals that tundra fires in Alaska's North Slope are linked to rising Arctic temperatures and nonlinear climate conditions. The research found a dramatic relationship between temperature and frequency of fires, with temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius increasing fire occurrence.
A new study presents the first geological evidence that the ancestors of C4 grasses emerged millions of years earlier than previously established. Researchers analyzed carbon isotope ratios in individual grains of grass pollen, finding unequivocal evidence for C4 grasses in southwestern Europe by the Early Oligocene.
University of Illinois researchers developed microsensors that can track individual cells' masses and divisions over time. They found that cells grow faster as they grow heavier, rather than at a fixed rate throughout the cell cycle. The sensors also allow for imaging and tracking of cellular processes in conjunction with changes in mass.
A railroad bypassed the first black-founded town in the United States, New Philadelphia, Illinois, to avoid expensive iron rails. The town's location proved more favorable for a straight route, but a shallow creek required a curved detour that increased construction costs.
Researchers found that miscanthus has a high yield, up to three times higher than switchgrass in the Midwest, but also a higher initial cost. Biofuel grasses could be viable under certain conditions, with potential benefits for energy security and climate change mitigation.
The project aims to create a comprehensive software framework that combines cyberinfrastructure, GIS, and spatial analysis and modeling capabilities to tackle complex problems in various fields. CyberGIS has the potential to advance scientific breakthroughs with broad societal impacts, particularly in disaster preparedness and response.
A new research center will study the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates on infant and adolescent development, cognition, and behavior. The center aims to determine if exposure to these chemicals alters hormone signaling and affects sex differences in brain development and behavior.
A new study of student reactions to campus shootings found that online activities neither helped nor harmed long-term psychological health. Students reported feeling better after participating in online memorials and communications, but these effects did not translate into long-term change.
Researchers developed a simple sensor to detect triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a high-powered explosive used in shoe bombs. The colorimetric sensor array can quantify TATP vapor at very low levels, making it suitable for luggage and passenger screening at airports.
A diet rich in luteolin reduces inflammation in the brain and related memory deficits. Luteolin improves cognitive health by acting on microglial cells to reduce inflammatory cytokine production.
Researchers studied peptide hormones in planarian flatworms to understand their reproductive output and potential link to parasitic diseases. The study found that disrupting neuropeptide processing in sexually reproducing planaria causes reproductive organs to regress.
A low-cost spectrometer built with a cell phone can help high school students grasp chemistry concepts. By analyzing light spectra, students learn about material properties and critical thinking skills.
Researchers used DNA from century-old specimens to identify the passenger pigeon's closest living relatives, revealing a unique bird with a distinct place in the evolutionary history of pigeons and doves. The study found that the passenger pigeon was not closely related to the mourning dove as previously thought.
Researchers have found wind farms' effects on local temperatures and proposed strategies for mediating those effects, increasing the potential to expand wind farms. The study identified two possible mediation strategies: low-turbulence rotors or locational deployment in regions with natural mixing in the atmosphere.
Research by University of Illinois finance professors Murillo Campello and Heitor Almeida finds that small firms face higher costs of financing when economic conditions worsen. They often re-invest profits before paying off creditors, leading to increased debt and potential financial distress.
University of Illinois researchers have created a tiny needle that can deliver quantum dots directly into a cell's nucleus, allowing for the study of internal environments and cellular processes. This breakthrough technique uses electrical potential to control the release of molecules and offers precise monitoring capabilities, opening...
Researchers found that long noncoding RNA MALAT1 plays a key role in regulating pre-mRNA splicing, a critical step in protein production. This study suggests that MALAT1's regulation of splicing factors may contribute to cancer development.
The University of Illinois Center for One Health Illinois is tackling the gap in surveillance by recruiting experts to build a system for sharing environmental and health data. The center has funded several small-scale research projects and is seeking to fund new studies that integrate human, animal, agricultural, and ecosystem health.
Research at University of Illinois found that physically fit children have a bigger hippocampus and perform better on tests of memory. A study using MRI measures found associations between aerobic fitness and improved cognitive tasks in pre-adolescent children.
Research suggests that the current six-month rotating vaccine stockpile policy may not be optimal for achieving herd immunity. A new stochastic model proposes flexible policies to minimize vaccine shortage risks while maintaining coverage rates. The study's findings highlight the need for differentiated stockpile levels based on diseas...
A team of researchers from the University of Illinois will investigate the health effects of botanical estrogens, including phytoestrogens from soy and other plants. The study aims to determine whether these compounds have beneficial or detrimental effects on human health.
Researchers found that individuals maintain attachment to their old team or city as a way of asserting their identity after relocating. Nostalgia for the old hometown also plays a role in consumption choices among fans. The study's findings have implications for sports broadcasting and fan engagement.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new target for cancer therapy in dogs and tested a compound that arrested tumor growth and induced partial remission. The study suggests that the treatment could be effective and safe, potentially adding to existing lymphoma treatments.
A study found that moderate exercise, such as walking, enhances brain circuit connectivity, combating age-related declines in brain function. This improved connectivity is associated with better performance on cognitive tasks like planning, prioritizing, and multitasking.
Researchers have revealed the mechanisms of the DNA-regulating enzyme PcrA, which controls recombination by removing recombination proteins from the DNA. By combining structure-specific binding and motor function, PcrA reels in DNA and kicks off recombination proteins.
Researchers found that altering a honey bee's perception of distance alters its brain gene expression, particularly in the optic lobes and mushroom bodies. This study provides new insights into how bees process spatial information and communicate through dance language.
Researchers found that children with a specific serotonin transporter gene variant are more likely to exhibit psychopathic traits if they grow up poor. These traits include lack of empathy, arrogance, and deceitfulness. The study suggests that socioeconomic environment influences the expression of this genetic trait.
Research by University of Illinois sports economist Scott Tainsky reveals that winning teams, long-standing market presence, and prime-time games positively impact NFL TV ratings. TV ratings serve as a proxy for consumer demand in both home and road markets.
Researchers have discovered that Helicobacter pylori's CagA protein disables the tumor suppressor protein RUNX3 in host cells, leading to gastric cancer. The interaction between CagA and RUNX3 causes degradation of the protein via ubiquitination, promoting aberrant cell growth and cancer development.
A study by the University of Illinois research team found that generational gaps in workplaces cannot be solved with broad stereotypes or age-based solutions. The researchers identified three primary factors that contribute to generational factions: significant life events, work tenure, and job duties.