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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau


Fitness counteracts cognitive decline from hormone-replacement therapy

A new study reveals that high fitness levels can enhance the effects of short-term hormone treatment and offset declines associated with long-term use. Researchers analyzed brain tissue volume in 54 postmenopausal women and found a significant association between higher fitness levels and greater tissue volume in key areas.

Bird flu poses threat to international security, Illinois scholar says

A University of Illinois scholar warns that avian influenza poses a significant threat to international security, citing the potential for human-to-human transmission and widespread economic disruption. The expert emphasizes the need for global coordination and increased surveillance to prevent the spread of the virus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDefense and Security Analysis·DateJan 24, 2006

Absence of critical protein linked to infertility

The study reveals that the transcription factor protein C/EBPb is necessary for decidualization and successful pregnancy in mice. In humans, its presence may become a vital gene marker for predicting uterine readiness for implantation. This breakthrough could potentially alleviate shortcomings in in vitro fertilization.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2006

Give a visiting ant a nice place to stay and it might stick around

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that nesting preferences are a crucial factor in determining whether an invasive ant species will establish itself. According to researchers, ground-nesting and arboreal ants with specific biological characteristics are more likely to succeed. The stu...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2005

Proofreading and error-correction in nanomaterials inspired by nature

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel method for proofreading and error-correction in nanomaterials, utilizing catalytic DNA to detect and remove incorrect particles. This approach mimics nature's accuracy mechanisms in protein synthesis and holds promise for precise control over nanoparticle assembly.

Beneficial effects of no-till farming depend upon future climate change

Researchers found that no-till farming can store up to 868 million tons of carbon in soil, which could help meet the US's goal of reducing carbon-dioxide emissions by one-fifth. Climate change affects soil carbon sequestration varying by region, with some areas experiencing increased storage and others reduced.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 13, 2005

Study: 'Run-down feeling' with illness may last longer as people age

Researchers found that older animals exhibited an exaggerated inflammatory response in the brain compared to younger adults when exposed to a peripheral infection. This led to prolonged sickness symptoms and cognitive disorders. The study suggests that normal aging may also prime microglial cells, making them overreact to infections.

Room-temperature transistor laser is step closer to commercialization

Researchers at University of Illinois have successfully demonstrated room-temperature operation of a light-emitting transistor laser, paving the way for high-speed applications. The breakthrough could lead to faster signal processing, large capacity seamless communications, and improved electrical and optical integrated circuits.

Researchers zero in on estrogen's role in breast-cancer cell growth

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that estrogen reduces levels of a crucial nuclear receptor corepressor, N-CoR, leading to increased breast cancer cell growth. The anti-estrogen drug tamoxifen can facilitate recovery of N-CoR, suggesting potential therapeutic implications for its use.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2005