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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau


Biologically inspired sensors can augment sonar, vision system in submarines

Researchers have developed an artificial lateral line that mimics the functions of the biological system found in fish, enabling submarines to detect and track moving targets and avoid collisions. The device uses micro fabricated flow sensors integrated with metal-oxide-superconductor circuitry for on-chip signal processing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2007

Disposable sensor uses DNA to detect hazardous uranium ions

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a simple, disposable sensor for detecting hazardous uranium ions using DNA. The sensor provides fast, on-site testing for assessing uranium contamination and remediation strategies, with detection sensitivity rivalling sophisticated laboratory instruments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2007

Together, biological membranes prevail

A novel method developed by Illinois researchers allows for the visualization of individual membrane fusion events, revealing unprecedented details about this fundamental life phenomenon. The technique, based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), enables the study of SNARE-mediated membrane fusion at a single-vesicle level.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2007

Soil nutrients shape tropical forests, large-scale study indicates

A large-scale study reveals that soil composition significantly influences where certain tree species grow in tropical forests. Researchers found strong associations between tree species and nutrient distributions, suggesting differences in nutrient requirements among trees may help explain coexistence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2007

University of Illinois scientist helping processors keep E. coli out of meat

A University of Illinois food scientist has discovered that certain solutions used by meat processors to extend shelf life actually do double duty as antimicrobial agents, killing E. coli 0157:H7. The study found that some shelf-life enhancers, such as sodium lactate and sodium diacetate, are effective at reducing bacteria growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateNov 9, 2006

Faith-based youth groups stand out in fostering teens' growth experiences

A new study by the University of Illinois found that faith-based youth groups provide the highest rates of personal and interpersonal growth experiences for teens, compared to sports, performance and fine arts groups, academic clubs, and community-oriented activities. The study surveyed over 2,000 eleventh graders and found that teens ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateNov 1, 2006

It's 2006, but 'coming out' is still difficult for Korean American daughters

A University of Illinois study finds that Korean-American lesbian daughters often struggle with 'coming out' due to Confucian and Christian values imposed by their parents. The study, conducted by Ramona Oswald and master's degree candidate Grace Chung, aims to provide culturally competent support for these families.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of GLBT Family Studies·DateOct 12, 2006

Child custody with abusive ex-spouse? Study shows how women decide

A University of Illinois study explores how abused women decide on child custody arrangements, revealing the complex interplay between fear, practical considerations, and family ideology. The research highlights the need for tailored interventions to address the unique needs of parents with histories of violence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 5, 2006

U of I study: Parent's conversational style contributes to child's security

A University of Illinois study found that parents' conversational styles contribute to their children's secure attachment, sense of self-worth, and eventual social competence. Elaborative conversations, characterized by rich detail and background information, foster memory development and promote a sense of shared history with the parent.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAttachment & Human Development·DateOct 4, 2006