A recent study found that Adélie penguin populations on Antarctica's Beaufort Island have increased by 84% as ice fields retreated between 1958-2010. The population density within the colony also increased, leading to altered dynamics of the population studied.
African lion populations face extinction due to human-lion conflicts. Fencing can protect people and wildlife; a global funding agency could fund large-scale fencing projects. The 'Marshall Plan' for African wildlife conservation is proposed by the leading lion researcher.
Candida albicans, a common human fungus, has been found to possess the ability of sexual reproduction through haploid isolates. This breakthrough could provide insights into how it evolves and transform from harmless to deadly. The discovery also paves the way for genetic studies and potentially modified diploid strains.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota created an artificial enzyme through directed evolution, a method that mimics natural selection and evolution. The new enzyme functions similarly to its natural counterparts despite its unusual structure and dynamics.
Researchers found triclosan and its derivatives in lake sediments, with higher concentrations in small lakes with wastewater input. The study's results raise concerns about the environmental impact of triclosan, a common antibacterial agent used in soaps and other products.
The University of Minnesota has been awarded a $28 million grant to develop next-generation microelectronics, including spin-based computing and memory systems. The Center for Spintronic Materials, Interfaces, and Novel Architectures (C-SPIN) will bring together top researchers from across the nation to advance this technology.
A study published in Nature Communications found that 24-39% of harvested areas experienced stagnation or decline in maize, rice, wheat, and soybean yields between 1961 and 2008. The findings highlight the need to shift focus from meat and biofuel production to food security, particularly for staple crops like wheat and rice.
The University of Minnesota will lead an international research network, Linked Institutions for Future Earth (LIFE), focusing on the impacts of climatic and human stresses on landscapes. The project aims to inform policymakers and practitioners with research that advances understanding and promotes landscape sustainability.
Seven University of Minnesota faculty members have been named AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking research and innovative efforts in science. They were recognized in four different sections, including geology, physics, pharmaceutical sciences, and biological sciences.
A new framework developed by researchers at the University of Minnesota provides a tool for assessing and valuing the services clean water provides, including recreation, beauty, navigation, and hydropower. The framework can be applied to on-the-ground decisions around water issues, yielding a more accurate picture of costs and benefits.
A University of Minnesota scientist contributed to a landmark study mapping the barley genome, providing valuable tools for improving crop yields, resistance to pests and diseases, and nutritional value. The research will accelerate breeding efforts to help barley adapt to climate change, making it more resistant to drought and efficie...
A new research project led by University of Minnesota scientists could lead to the development of sustainable, drought-resistant turf grasses. The project, funded by a $2.1 million grant, aims to breed low-input grasses that require less water, fertilizer, and pesticide.
A University of Minnesota study found that plants' ability to absorb CO2 may be restricted by nitrogen availability in typical soils. The research, published in Nature Climate Change, used a 13-year experiment at the Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve and suggested that limited fertility can reduce carbon sequestration capacity.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a unique microscale optical device that can amplify optical signals, potentially increasing internet download speeds and reducing power consumption. The device uses the force generated by light to control a mechanical switch, enabling high-speed data transmission.
Scientists at the University of Minnesota developed a new genome editing technology called TALENS to genetically modify livestock animals. This technique allows researchers to study human diseases in animal models, potentially leading to cure development.
Researchers will examine climate-water-land use interactions in the Minnesota River Basin to predict and mitigate changes. The project aims to develop a framework guiding decision-making toward a resilient environment.
A University of Minnesota research team is developing a biodegradation technology using naturally-occurring bacteria to remove contaminants from fracking wastewater. The goal is to make the water suitable for re-use in fracking and significantly reduce industry's water usage.
Researchers found that closing the yield gap on underperforming lands could boost production significantly, while also reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. The study suggests that more strategic use of fertilizer and water could lead to substantial gains in crop production and reduced adverse environmental impacts.
Researchers at University of Minnesota develop new non-invasive brain scan technique to study seizures immediately after they occur. The method could lead to breakthroughs in identifying the brain regions responsible for seizures and finding effective treatments.
The University of Minnesota has been awarded two grants from the US Department of Energy to fund research on capturing greenhouse gases and improving solar energy conversion. The grants will support the development of new materials and software tools for these applications.
A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that reducing desire for unhealthy foods through monitoring quantity can lead to self-control. Researchers discovered that people with high self-control eat less when consuming unhealthy foods due to increased satiation, allowing them to stop enjoying the experience faster.
The University of Minnesota has licensed its Clinical Decision Support technology to Omicron Health Systems, enabling improved coordination of patient care and research activities. The technology helps standardize medical records, facilitating communication and targeted treatments among clinicians and researchers.
Researchers create ultra-thin zeolite nanosheets catalyst for faster chemical reactions in industries; increased efficiencies could lower costs for consumers. The discovery improves production per manufacturing dollar, leading to potential cost drops for gasoline and other products.
A recent study found that gecko toepads evolved multiple times in response to habitat changes. The researchers constructed the most complete gecko family tree ever made and discovered that sticky pads appeared independently in over 11 different gecko groups, while also being lost in at least nine others.
A new University of Minnesota study reveals that each species plays a crucial role in maintaining a productive ecosystem when considering long-term effects. The research found that increasing plant diversity led to gradual increases in both soil fertility and biomass production over a 14-year period.
A study by the University of Minnesota and UTSA found that when men are scarce, women are more likely to delay starting a family and instead seek high-paying careers. Women who judged themselves as less desirable to men were also more likely to choose career over family.
The University of Minnesota has developed an innovative isothermal compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology, licensed to SustainX. This solution can stabilize renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, making them more predictable and reliable.
A new study using high-resolution satellite mapping technology has counted over 595,000 emperor penguins in Antarctica, nearly double the previous estimate of 270,000 to 350,000 birds. The research provides an important benchmark for monitoring the impact of environmental change on these iconic birds.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered that cell phone networks leak user locations, allowing hackers to track their movements. The team used inexpensive phones and open source software to demonstrate the vulnerability on the GSM network.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota developed an antidote for cyanide poisoning called Sulfanegen, which can be administered rapidly by intra-muscular injection. The treatment could save lives in mass casualty emergencies and smoke inhalation incidents, where current treatments require medical professionals' expertise.
A University of Minnesota-led research team has proposed a mechanism for controlling embryonic stem cell proliferation and differentiation. The study reveals that two enzymes, ERK1 and ERK2, inactivate the protein Klf4, allowing cells to differentiate into adult cells.
The new Distraction Dodger video game, developed by the University of Minnesota ITS Institute, aims to teach young adults about the risks of distracted driving. The game simulates real-life scenarios, offering players a reality check on their driving habits and encouraging them to stay focused on the road.
Researchers have successfully replicated the evolution from single-celled organisms to multicellular clusters in a laboratory setting, mirroring the transition that led to life on Earth. The experiment involved natural selection and brewer's yeast, resulting in cooperative cell clusters that exhibit genetic similarity.
A study from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management found that when men perceive women as scarce, they become more impulsive, save less, and increase borrowing. This effect is seen in both laboratory experiments and archival data from over 120 US cities.
A new projection suggests global food demand could double by 2050, putting a significant strain on the environment. If poor nations adopt high-yielding technologies and efficient nitrogen fertilizers, however, this burden can be reduced to half a billion acres.
A new University of Minnesota study reveals that even treated municipal wastewater can contribute significantly to antibiotic-resistant bacteria in surface waters. Researchers found that quantities of these bacteria were typically 20-fold higher near the site where treated wastewater was released into Duluth-Superior Harbor.
Ecosystem services have declined by 60% due to land conversion for food and fiber production. Experts recommend market-based solutions, such as cap-and-trade policies and certification schemes, to incentivize sustainable supply of these services.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new type of molecular sieve that can speed up filtration processes and reduce energy consumption. The breakthrough uses ultra-thin zeolite nanosheets to create more efficient separation membranes, promising cost savings in fuel and plastics production.
A new online training program, Honor Our Voices, aims to elevate the voices of children of domestic violence, enabling service providers to better understand and respond to their needs. The platform presents information on child exposure to domestic violence through engaging stories and research-based practices.
Researchers at U of M Medical School used advanced MRI technology to develop a better approach to diagnosing epilepsy. The study revealed highly detailed images of brain tissue, allowing doctors to accurately locate scar tissue associated with the condition.
Researchers at University of Minnesota discovered a gene pattern in dogs that distinguishes between aggressive and less aggressive forms of bone cancer. The finding may lead to the development of laboratory tests to predict tumor behavior in humans, allowing for tailored therapy and potentially reducing side effects.
A University of Minnesota study found that chance consistently pushes wealth into the hands of a few individuals, leading to dramatic concentration of wealth over time. The researchers' model, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that high variation among individual return rates accelerates wealth concentration.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified a potential therapy to boost resistance against prenatal infections by manipulating an immune suppressive cell type. This approach allows pregnant women to more efficiently fight off infections without compromising pregnancy outcome.
A University of Minnesota study found that full moons signal increased lion attacks on humans in Tanzania, with over two-thirds of attacks fatal. The research analyzed nearly 500 lion attacks between 1988 and 2009, revealing a clear pattern of increased danger after the full moon.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new strategy to improve the development of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) by fusing two proteins. This approach increases efficiency and purity, decreases tumor formation risk, and simplifies the process, making it more feasible for human transplantation.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have made a key discovery showing that male sex must be maintained throughout life. The study found that removing the Dmrt1 gene causes male cells in mouse testis to become female cells, highlighting the importance of active maintenance of the original sex determination decision.
A new University of Minnesota project aims to refine successful farming techniques for corn and soybeans in anticipation of climate change. Scientists will investigate the benefits of precision zonal management, which enables crops to receive optimal nutrients while soil-building processes occur between rows.
Research from the University of Minnesota finds that people who grew up poor are more likely to take risks for immediate rewards when feeling threatened. In contrast, those raised in a more predictable environment respond by becoming more cautious.
A new global plant database, led by University of Minnesota researchers, offers trait data for 69,000 plant species, enabling more realistic models of terrestrial biodiversity. The database promises to support a paradigm shift in Earth system sciences and improve carbon cycle predictions.
Researchers develop multiferroic alloy that converts heat into electricity with no carbon dioxide emissions. The material can capture waste heat from various sources, including cars and industrial plants, to produce electricity.