A study by researchers at the University of Illinois found that premature infants have a lower chance of developing a secure attachment with their mothers. The study observed infant-mother interactions and found that 75% of full-term babies were rated as secure, but only 50% of premature babies shared this level of security.
A University of Illinois professor and his students have developed a power-tracking circuit that maximizes electrical power-conversion process efficiency. The circuit automatically adjusts to provide maximum energy out of solar cells for various applications, including large home appliances.
Archaeologists found that prehistoric Indian villagers in southeastern Iowa consumed knotweed and little barley seeds, which were rich in carbohydrates. The discovery sheds light on the diet and agriculture practices of the Oneota Culture, a Native American tribe that lived from 1580 to 1640.
Researchers discovered a genetic basis for the hormonal mechanism regulating drone development in male honey bees, which accelerates their growth and allows them to mature early. The findings provide evolutionary insight into the mechanisms controlling worker bee behavior and could lead to new tools for brain research.
A study by University of Illinois researcher Peter Mulhall found that middle-school-age latchkey youth are three times more likely to say they have ever been drunk, and almost four times more likely to drink in the past month. The study also reveals higher rates of marijuana use and smoking among latchkey youth.
A robot has been taught to play air hockey, a step towards developing intelligent robots that can perform complex tasks. The robot's ability to sense its surroundings and react accordingly opens up new horizons for robotic applications.
The digital hard hat combines functions of a camcorder, tape recorder, notepad, and digital camera into one device. It allows workers to collect, store, receive, and transmit construction-project information via text, images, sound, and video.
Researchers highlight the ongoing threat of ice on small plane wings, which can compromise control and safety. Despite a redesigned deicing 'boot', other aircraft and severe icing conditions remain a concern.
Researchers found that seed corn growers in Illinois using irrigated sandy soils can increase profits by cutting back on nitrogen fertilizer use. Excessive nitrogen application leads to organic nitrogen accumulation in soil microorganisms, hindering crop growth.
A recent University of Illinois study found that using starter fertilizer on no-till corn fields can increase yields by up to 14 bushels per acre. This technique provides early nutrient availability, which is particularly beneficial for no-till farming due to cool and wet soils during the initial growing season.
Researchers found that liquids behave like soft solids when squeezed into thin films, with implications for fields like tribology, geology, and biology. This understanding could lead to the development of more effective lubricants and insights into natural phenomena like earthquakes.
Research finds that boys who experience conflict in friendships exhibit higher levels of loneliness and adjustment difficulties, unlike girls. Children who perceive support from friends tend to enjoy school more and perform better academically.
Breast-cancer researchers at the University of Illinois have identified four critical amino acids in the binding of estrogen and anti-estrogen hormones to receptor proteins. This discovery may lead to the development of more tissue-selective therapies for breast cancer treatment, addressing resistance to current treatments like tamoxifen.
Researchers identified specific receptors for interleukin-1 on somatotrope cells in the pituitary gland, suggesting a direct link between the immune and endocrine systems. This discovery may help understand how the immune system regulates animal growth and disease.
A study of postmenopausal women found that soy protein increased bone-mineral density, suggesting a potential role for isoflavones in maintaining bone health. The researchers also observed significant improvements in blood cholesterol profiles, with LDL cholesterol dropping by about 8% and HDL increasing by 4.5%.
A new study by the University of Illinois found that children's withdrawal from family life between 5th and 12th grades is not a reflection of family turmoil. Despite this, parents can expect to spend less quality time with their kids as they enter adolescence.
A team of University of Illinois researchers has developed a new, cost-effective way to filter pollutants from the environment using activated glass fibers. The fibers offer improved contact efficiency, self-containment, and ease of reactivation compared to traditional activated carbon granules.
A multiyear project may provide ecological insights for animal conservation, as tiny prairie voles adjusted to both immigration and emigration among different habitats to maintain a stable overall population. The study found that birth and death rates compensated for movement among habitats with varying environments.
Scientists used a scanning tunneling microscope to visualize the porous microstructure within an activated carbon fiber and relate it to its adsorption properties. The findings reveal that pore size, shape, and surface chemistry play a crucial role in determining absorption capabilities.
A historian's research reveals that physicians' campaigns to control midwives were driven by stigmatization and a desire to suppress abortion. The campaign successfully restricted midwifery practices in the US by the early 20th century, despite the role of physicians in illegal abortions.
A genetic analysis by University of Illinois researchers reveals that Illinois Prairie Chickens have lost significant genetic diversity due to population decline, affecting their fitness. The study suggests introducing birds from neighboring states may help restore the species' numbers and health.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a monoclonal antibody-based ELISA test that can detect small amounts of alpha toxins produced by Clostridium perfringens in food samples. This method has great potential for the meat industry, allowing for early detection and prevention of illness.
Research suggests that mountains are key to determining the location of severe winter storms. The Rocky Mountains and Tibetan Plateau influence storm tracks over North America and Asia. Understanding these dynamics can lead to more accurate weather predictions and insights into the Earth's atmosphere.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have invented a faucet that drips automatically to relieve pressure and prevent pipe bursts. The design is centered on southern states where subfreezing temperatures are rare, and construction lacks attention to protecting pipes from outside temperatures.