The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has approved funding for a Center for Reproduction and Infertility Research at the University of Illinois. The center will support research on maternal-fetal interactions during early pregnancy and identify factors underlying infertility in women with endometriosis.
Carbon nanotubes have shown significant advantages in high-speed analog electronics, and researchers built the world's first all-nanotube transistor radios to prove it. The radios demonstrate the growth technique's success and pave the way for practical implementation of carbon-nanotube materials.
A new study challenges the assumption that all measures of well-being go up as happiness increases, finding that moderately happy individuals may outperform those who are extremely happy in some areas of life. Happiness generally correlates with positive measures such as success in money, employment and relationships, but overly high l...
Researchers found that microbial communities change the rate of calcium carbonate precipitation, which can affect the chemistry and shape of crystals. This discovery could help date certain sequences of sedimentary rock and search for evidence of life on other planets.
A team of scientists has developed an economical approach to breeding maize with higher provitamin A levels, which can combat vitamin A deficiency. By identifying a naturally mutated enzyme, they can now inexpensively screen different varieties and breed those that contain it.
Research team finds PCBs and DDE in Chicago night-heron eggs, but no negative effects on reproduction. Populations remain stable amidst ongoing contamination from Lake Michigan.
Researchers developed a temperature-independent pH buffer to maintain sample stability during freezing and thawing. The new buffer showed minimal pH changes, even after repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have achieved optical waveguiding of near-infrared light through self-assembled, three-dimensional photonic crystals. By using multi-photon polymerization and a laser scanning confocal microscope, they created optically active crystals that can produce low-loss waveguides and low-threshold lasers.
The Argentine ant's invasive success is attributed to its adaptability and ability to outcompete native ants. As it displaces native species, the ants begin foraging lower on the food chain, exploiting honeydew excretions of aphids and scale insects.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a method for sequencing DNA using nanopores, which could lead to a device that reads human genomes quickly and affordably. The technique produces an electrostatic fingerprint that can be used to read the genetic sequence, enabling precise diagnosis and tailored treatment procedures.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new model that takes into account nitrogen dynamics to better understand how plants and soils interact with climate change. The model reveals that nitrogen availability influences carbon dioxide uptake, potentially leading to overestimations of forest carbon sequestration.
Astronomers at the University of Illinois have discovered a stellar cradle where planets and moons are believed to form. Located 800 light-years away in the constellation Cepheus, the object is an enormous flow of shocked molecular hydrogen gas erupting from a young protostar's magnetic poles.
A team from the University of Illinois identified SgrS, a 200-nucleotide-long RNA molecule, which performs two functions to regulate glucose metabolism in bacteria. The molecule binds to messenger RNA to inhibit new glucose transporter production and codes for a protein that retards existing transporter activity.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have created novel biomimetic membranes that can efficiently transport water, making them ideal for desalination and wastewater purification. The membranes' high permeability and selectivity could also be useful for drug delivery applications.
A new study by University of Illinois researchers found that grape-seed extract is a viable natural alternative to synthetic ingredients for preserving meat quality in pre-cooked meals. The extract's phenolic compounds have been shown to be effective antioxidants in slowing the oxidation of fats.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new, catalyst-free approach to create self-healing materials that can repair cracks in composite materials. The new system uses chlorobenzene microcapsules to restore structural integrity, with fracture tests showing a 82% recovery of original fracture toughness.
Researchers have found a way to help health-care providers and social workers understand the stages that abused women go through when deciding to leave their partners. The study identifies five stages, including precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance, with key turning points for women's empowerment.
A lead-specific DNAzyme uses the 'lock and key' reaction mechanism, but switches to 'induced fit' in the presence of zinc or magnesium. This discovery could lead to faster and more sensitive sensors.
University of Illinois researchers successfully simulated every step of the photosynthetic process using a computer model that mimics evolution. The new findings suggest that by rearranging the investment of nitrogen, they can almost double efficiency in plants. This could lead to increased crop yields and improved plant productivity.
Geologists at the University of Illinois report a direct relationship between magma production and tectonic plate convergence rates in a Caribbean submarine volcano. Analyzing rock samples from Kick'em Jenny, they found a higher protactinium-to-uranium ratio indicative of slower melting rates due to slow subduction rates.
A University of Illinois professor argues that the educational and psychosocial benefits of online communication for teenagers far outweigh potential dangers. Online discussions enable critical thinking, argumentation, and support from peer groups, while also providing a safe space to explore identity and sensitive issues.
Researchers develop unconventional metal hydrides to produce water through oxygen reduction, a process essential for making water. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient hydrogen fuel cells and lower production costs.
Research by University of Illinois soil scientists found that nitrogen fertilizers lead to a decline in soil organic carbon, even after decades of use. The study's findings have troubling implications for corn production and highlight the need for site-specific soil testing to optimize fertilizer rates.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found a common nervous system receptor that inhibits its binding protein, leading to abnormal neuron growth and development. This unusual mechanism directs the formation of tens of thousands of neurons vital for odor detection.
A team of researchers proposes a new hypothesis on human migration from Asia to the Americas, suggesting that ancestors remained isolated in Beringia for 15,000 years before entering the continent. The study's findings contradict previous theories and provide insights into the peopling of the New World.
University of Illinois scientist Karen Chapman-Novakofski conducted a nutritional study in Botswana, revealing that the elderly lack variety in their diet and have limited access to milk, fruits, and vegetables. The research aims to inform policy changes and support healthy eating habits for this vulnerable population.
Cosmology@Home allows people worldwide to participate in cutting-edge cosmology research by donating their unused computing cycles. Participating computers calculate the observable predictions of millions of theoretical models with different parameters, which are then compared with actual data.
A new study reveals that parasites play a pivotal role in the decline of species in fragmented forests. Red colobus monkeys were found to be infected with more human or livestock parasites than their black-and-white cousins, due to their varied diet and increased travel range.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that uranium's U-235 to U-238 isotope ratio varies significantly in Earth materials. The new findings are consistent with other high-mass isotope systems and may represent the first evidence of a nuclear field shift in nature.
Researchers have found that mate tea can increase HDL (good) cholesterol activity by up to 10% compared to other drinks. An international agreement aims to study 84 genotypes of mate tea, including cultivated and wild varieties, to identify the most nutritionally beneficial types.
In 1977, Carl Woese led a team that identified archaea as a unique domain of life, distinct from bacteria and other organisms. Their discovery opened up a new field of study and revolutionized biology, particularly microbial ecology.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that tropical maize can produce up to 25% sugar in its stalks, making it a promising alternative to corn for biofuel production. This could result in significant energy savings per acre and reduced nitrogen fertilizer costs.
Researchers have developed new sol-gel inks that can be printed into three-dimensional structures of metal oxides with nanoscale features. These inks enable the direct patterning of functional oxides at the nanoscale, opening up new avenues for functional devices.
Researchers created a hybrid device combining force and fluorescence to detect subtle conformational changes in biomolecules at extremely low applied forces. By probing the dynamics of Holliday junctions, they mapped transition states and deduced the structure of transient species.
Researchers compiled global census of protein architectures to plot evolution of Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya. The study found evidence that archaeal microbes emerged first as an evolutionarily distinguishable group, losing a fold in the process.
Children benefit when mothers and fathers react differently to their child's negative emotions, with one comforting and problem-solving while the other provides space. This helps gain experience in understanding and controlling emotions, developing complex thinking about emotions.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered a genetic link between maternal and altruistic behaviors in wasps, finding similarities with honey bee workers. The study suggests that eusociality may have evolved from maternal behavior in paper wasps, challenging Darwinian predictions.
A recent study at the University of Illinois found that improper handling techniques in catch-and-release fishing can increase the likelihood of released fish being caught by predators. The researchers recommend minimizing time spent angling and releasing fish quickly to reduce physiological stress.
Researchers at University of Illinois created nanowire that produces power through piezoelectric material, generating voltage when mechanically deformed. The breakthrough uses extremely sensitive and precise mechanical testing stage to accurately measure the nanowire's response to vibrations.
By placing quantum dots on a specially designed photonic crystal, researchers enhanced fluorescence intensity by up to 108 times. This breakthrough could lead to high-brightness light-emitting diodes, optical switches and biosensors for detecting DNA and other biomolecules.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that eye movement can influence problem-solving success. By manipulating eye movements, participants were able to outperform control groups in solving a problem. The findings suggest that eye movements can not only reflect but also affect cognitive processes.
Cystic fibrosis patients may benefit from a new therapeutic strategy that targets deadly bacterial infections by manipulating the binding of antimicrobials in mucus. By reducing the charge on lysozyme, researchers found it could float independently in the mucus and kill bacteria effectively.
Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism that could lead to the development of new, potent antibiotics. The compounds mimic natural peptides and create 'holes' in bacterial membranes, causing cell death.
Scientists have developed a technique to generate light and reduce damage in extreme ultraviolet lithography by adding a lighter gas to the plasma. This reduces the number and energy of xenon ions reaching the collector surface, extending its lifetime while maintaining minimal impact on light production.
The team's new e-jet printing process can produce lines as narrow as 700 nanometers and dots as small as 250 nanometers using electrically induced fluid flow and nanoscale nozzles. This technology has potential applications in large-area circuits, displays, photovoltaic modules, security, biotechnology, and photonics.
Researchers discovered that soy isoflavone genistin significantly reduced rotavirus infectivity by 33-74%, with the active component being genistin alone. The study found an effective range of concentrations, and the results held up even in high levels of rotavirus exposure.
A team of scientists has identified an odorant receptor that allows male honey bee drones to detect the presence of a queen up to 60 meters away. The receptor, which can detect the specific pheromone '9-ODA', is expressed in the antennae of male drones and plays a crucial role in their mating rituals.
Researchers developed a method for culturing mammalian neurons in small chambers, extending their lifespan to up to 11 days at low density. The technique, described in the journal Lab on a Chip, uses miniaturization and perfusion methods to increase purity and analyze cellular secretions.
A new study reveals that restless legs syndrome is common and troublesome in children and adolescents, occurring more frequently than diabetes and epilepsy. The condition, characterized by sensations in the legs, affects nearly 2% of US/UK children aged 8 to 17, with a significant proportion experiencing moderate to severe symptoms.
University of Illinois researchers warn that higher corn prices are causing some farmers to ignore integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which could undermine the effectiveness of technologies that sustain them. IPM is a set of principles developed to minimize ecological impacts of pesticides and transgenic crops.