Researchers at KAUST developed semiconductive photocatalysts that efficiently absorb solar energy, reducing the energy required for a bioelectrochemical process to convert CO2 into valuable chemicals. The technology has the potential to reduce carbon emissions while generating useful products.
Researchers at KAUST developed a cost-effective, ultrathin SRS lens using laser-based 3D printing, inspired by lighthouse design. The new lens rejects cross-phase modulation background signals, improving imaging efficiency for biological processes like cancer cell growth.
Researchers from KAUST analyzed fonio millet genomes to identify genes that could lead to higher yields and larger grains. The study found two genes, DeGs5-3A and DeSh1-9A, which were artificially selected for their larger grain size.
Researchers have designed a synthetic molecule that mimics the function of zaxinone, a natural growth-promoting plant metabolite, to improve root growth and limit Striga infestation in rice plants. The new molecule, MiZax3, has shown excellent activity and stability, with two mimics performing even better than zaxinone itself.
KAUST researchers developed a statistical model providing the best wind forecast yet for Saudi Arabia, aiming to increase renewable energy in the grid and reach 9 gigawatts of installed wind energy by 2030. The model uses advanced statistical approaches to jointly model wind speed and direction, showing improved prediction performance.
A new simulation approach has enabled faster computation of complex airfoil noise characteristics under extreme conditions, accelerating the development of quieter designs. The method uses a wall-modeled large-eddy simulation to model near-surface flows at high resolution while reducing computational intensity.
Researchers at KAUST have developed graphene-based sensors to monitor multiple environmental variables in extreme conditions. The sensors can withstand temperatures of up to 650 degrees Celsius and offer increased sensitivity in temperature sensing.
KAUST scientists propose a roadmap for molecular ecologists, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate on DNA-based approaches for marine monitoring. DNA barcoding and metabarcoding can save time and money by identifying species from small DNA fragments.
Scientists investigate how perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells perform in sunny and hot environments, finding that the perovskite bandgap gets larger as the device heats up, allowing more stable compositions to be used.
Researchers have developed a simpler detection procedure to identify and purify specific proteins from complex mixtures. The new method uses a UV-excitable fluorophore that binds to polyhistidine tags, allowing for easy detection of tagged proteins in gel electrophoresis.
A study by researchers at KAUST reveals that image artifacts from astigmatism can misidentify crystal phases in 2D semiconductors, affecting the accuracy of scanning transmission electron microscopy. The team demonstrated that these effects can be mitigated using specific beam configurations.
Researchers at KAUST developed a novel approach to grow single-crystal transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanoribbons using surface templates and ledge-directed growth. The resulting TMD nanoribbons exhibited defect-free structures and could be transferred onto new substrates without damage.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have developed a new method to directly convert methane into commercial products, bypassing multiple energy-intensive stages. The breakthrough uses a molybdenum-zeolite catalyst and identifies two potential activation pathways for carbon-hydrogen bonding.
Gallium nitride is a flawed water splitting photocatalyst due to photocorrosion damage. Combining it with iron oxide improves its working lifetime and hydrogen production rate by five times.
Researchers at KAUST have developed an approach to detect rare gene mutations in a pool of cells, which is crucial for early cancer detection and evaluating CRISPR/Cas9 editing outcomes. The technique, called IDMseq, accurately detects single mutations and analyzes large DNA deletions with high accuracy and sensitivity.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology developed ultrathin organic solar cells using inkjet printing, achieving a power conversion efficiency of 4.73 percent and paving the way for flexible, lightweight energy harvesting in various applications.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that analyzes molecular structure to predict enthalpy of formation with better accuracy than traditional approaches. The model's accuracy improves with more data, enabling the development of fully automated algorithms for predicting complex chemical phenomena.
Researchers at KAUST propose vast greenhouse complexes using energy-efficient solar panels, air-cooling technologies, and salt-tolerant agriculture to grow food and crops. This concept aims to provide sustainable, local crop growth on a large scale in coastal desert regions.
Researchers have developed a way to solubilize metal organic frameworks (MOFs) to create liquid-like materials. These MOF dispersions can separate gas mixtures with high efficiency and selectivity, making them suitable for industrial applications.
Scientists have identified a highly conserved envelope protein in both SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-1, which could be targeted with existing drugs to prevent acute respiratory distress syndrome. Researchers plan to conduct trials using FDA-approved medications and aim to utilize their data for vaccine design.
A comprehensive blueprint for Saudi Arabia's national wind energy strategy has been developed, aiming to reach 16 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2030. The plan leverages high-resolution modeling, unique wind and weather observations, and cost analysis to guide the optimal buildout of wind turbines.
KAUST researchers used high-speed imaging to observe collisions between air bubbles and water surfaces, finding that the air-water interface is more mobile than expected. The team also developed a method using thin films of fatty acids to immobilize free water surfaces, drastically reducing bouncing.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed a new model for positioning tethered unmanned aerial vehicles (TUAVs) to improve cellular phone and internet networks. The study shows that TUAVs can outperform free-flying UAVs in most scenarios with longer tethers.
Researchers discovered a phase transition in quantum dot films, where conductivity increases when linker molecules replace long capping molecules. This breakthrough could lead to better solar panels and digital displays.
Researchers at KAUST developed a new fluorescent multiplex cell rolling assay (FMCR) to analyze cell adhesion, speeding up the process and enabling analysis of multiple cell types. The technique has applications in studying cellular processes in inflammation or cancer cell metastasis.
Scientists have successfully fabricated red LEDs using indium gallium nitride, a material that can emit green, yellow, and red light. The developed LEDs offer improved stability at high temperatures compared to current InGaP-based devices.
Researchers at KAUST discovered that giant clam iridocytes absorb UV radiation and re-emit it as useful light for photosynthesis. This photoprotective effect enables clams to live in shallow tropical waters with high UV radiation levels.
Researchers discovered that anammox bacteria can transfer electrons to solid-state matter outside their cells, bypassing traditional electron acceptors. This breakthrough has significant implications for sustainable wastewater treatment, energy production, and the global nitrogen cycle.
Researchers at KAUST used high-resolution modeling to show coral reefs play a crucial role in reducing wave heights by half along the Red Sea coastline, enabling safer coastal construction and reduced fill material costs.
Researchers from KAUST developed a simple and noninvasive treatment to optimize perovskite solar cell materials. A bromine vapor treatment penetrates the surface of crystals, removing defects and producing a dramatic increase in electrical conductivity and carrier mobility.
Researchers at KAUST studied Red Sea plankton communities, revealing seasonal fluctuations driven by top-down controls like viruses and heterotrophic nanoflagellates. The study provides insight into tropical marine ecosystems, shedding light on the impact of climate change on these vital regions.
KAUST scientists create first water-stable, n-type semiconducting polymer doped with ammonium salt, enabling stable conversion of ionic signals into electronic signals. The innovation has potential applications in glucose sensors, enzymatic fuel cells and monitoring ion channel activity.
Researchers developed a framework using graph theory to optimize digital communication networks, finding cliques within them for efficient data transmission and improvement in throughput by up to 30%. This approach has far-reaching implications for future networks, including the internet of things with larger volumes of data.
Researchers have developed an underwater wireless system that supports internet services using visible light signals, allowing for faster and more reliable data transmission. The Aqua-Fi prototype demonstrated a maximum data transfer speed of 2.11 megabytes per second and an average delay of 1.00 millisecond.
Researchers discovered Plasmodium parasites use internal clocks to regulate gene expression and cell cycle activities in response to host signals. The finding of a genetic metronome and SR10 receptor protein could lead to novel drug targets for combating malaria.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology devised a new analytical tool to predict flood risk by adapting a classical statistical model for analyzing extreme rainfall in large datasets. The model demonstrated potential in capturing observed patterns in northeast America, promising improved prediction capabilities.
A KAUST research team discovered that IQOS emits 62 compounds, 52 of which were not found in Philip Morris International tests, including diacetyl and potentially carcinogenic diethylhexyl phthalate.
Researchers at KAUST found that Jeddah's urban heat island effect enhances storm energy and blocks passage, leading to 26% more rainfall. The study suggests improved forecasting capabilities to mitigate damage from severe weather events.
A new technique uses magnetic core-shell iron nanowires to track live-cell location and migration in real-time over many days, with potential applications in cancer treatment and stem cell therapies. The nanowires can selectively kill cancer cells while also providing noninvasive medical imaging capabilities.
An international team studied the Pol δ-DNA-PCNA complex to understand DNA replication and how it can malfunction. The team found that PCNA acts as a platform for different processing enzymes, similar to a toolbelt with an array of tools.
A KAUST study investigates the insect's physical features and movement to evade sea dangers, revealing a highly water-repellant waxy coating and specialized body hairs. The team also discovers the insects' extraordinary acceleration, using it as inspiration for new liquid repellent technologies and materials design.
A novel gel-based cooling system developed at KAUST has improved the efficiency of a prototype solar panel up to 20 percent, consuming no external energy. The technology taps into the natural properties of the Earth's climate, utilizing atmospheric water generation to reduce temperatures and enhance heat transfer.
A team of electrical engineers at KAUST has successfully made pure red LEDs from nitride crystals, paving the way for improved display technologies and efficient lighting. The breakthrough utilizes metalorganic vapor-phase deposition to add indium and aluminum to the crystal, reducing defects and increasing voltage efficiency.
Researchers at KAUST developed a cost-effective approach to detect red palm weevil infestation using laser pulses and optical fibers. The system can identify larvae as young as 12 days old and provide noninvasive, 24/7 monitoring of large-scale farms.
A marine heatwave in 2015-16 triggered different genetic responses in five coral reef fish species, showing varying levels of vulnerability to climate change. The study found common molecular pathways associated with increased oxygen uptake and cellular stress responses among all species.
Understanding interactions between metal ions and peptides may lead to improved treatments for diabetes, Alzheimer's, and other diseases. Researchers found that copper can impede the aggregation of pramlintide, but not rat amylin.
A new genome editing system has been developed to enhance the efficiency of an error-free DNA repair pathway, which could help improve agronomic traits in multiple crops. The system uses Cas9 and VirD2 to facilitate homology-directed repair, increasing the rate of precise genetic modifications.
A landmark study published in Nature outlines a roadmap for rebuilding marine life to full abundance by 2050. The research identifies nine key components and six complementary interventions that can accelerate recovery within two to three decades, provided climate change is tackled.
Researchers at KAUST have developed a new method to separate xylenes from benzene derivatives using cucurbit[7]uril, requiring no heating or elevated pressure. The process has high efficiency and low energy consumption, making it suitable for industrial implementation.
Researchers at KAUST have developed a cellular model of neuronal development that relies on L1 retrotransposons to form dopamine-producing neurons. The study reveals the importance of L1 activation in successful reprogramming of skin cells into neuronal cells.