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North Carolina State University


Inhalable COVID-19 vaccine shows promise in rodent model

Researchers developed an inhalable COVID-19 vaccine that targets the lungs specifically and effectively, allowing for self-administration via an inhaler. The vaccine prototype, RBD-Exo, elicited production of antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in rodent models, offering a promising solution to improve vaccine delivery.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2022

Fish cannibalism rare in wild, study finds

A study of over 12,000 fish across 17 species found that cannibalism is extremely rare in the wild, occurring in less than 0.30% of cases. The researchers identified population density and resource availability as key drivers of cannibalistic behavior, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 2, 2022

New tech aims to drive down costs of hydrogen fuel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

Study finds soil composition isn’t key to southeast Raleigh flooding

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that soils in the Walnut Creek watershed can absorb over 99% of precipitation events, contradicting previous studies. The study suggests that urban planners address flooding problems by considering the amount and location of paved surfaces rather than soil composition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022

Study finds realism a key factor in driving engagement with virtual reality videos

A recent study at North Carolina State University found that realism is a key factor in determining viewer engagement with virtual reality (VR) videos. The researchers discovered that viewers who enjoyed their VR experiences were more likely to want to watch additional VR videos in the future.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Sugar aversion hampers cockroach coupling

Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered that female German cockroaches averse to glucose reject male offers of body secretions containing sugars and fats. The study shows that glucose-averse females sense a bitter taste when mixing their saliva with the male secretions, ending the courtship ritual.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Quantifying cognitive decline in dogs could help humans with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers have developed a multi-dimensional approach to quantify cognitive decline in aging dogs, which may also inform human Alzheimer's disease treatment. The method combines physical exams, lab tests, and cognitive assessments to provide a more complete picture of canine cognitive function.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

Researchers find way to make traffic models more efficient

A new method reduces computational complexity of traffic models, making them operate more efficiently. The modified algorithm breaks down complex forecasting questions into smaller problems that can be solved in parallel, significantly reducing run time. This approach also allows for a good enough solution within an error bar, rather t...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2022

Study finds offshore wind could drive down energy costs in New England

A new analysis found that offshore wind power in New England could reduce wholesale electricity prices by $28.81 megawatts per hour, while lowering emissions consistently. However, extreme winter storms may cause temporary losses of power due to high wind speeds, but these events are rare and do not break the system.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnergy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 21, 2022

Study finds empowering workers can backfire

A new study found that empowering workers can lead to better job performance and creativity, but only if institutional obstacles are removed. However, when empowered employees face hindrance stressors, they may become morally disengaged and engage in unethical pro-organizational behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2022

Quantum ‘shock absorbers’ allow perovskite to exhibit superfluorescence at room temperature

Researchers at NC State University discovered that built-in thermal shock absorbers in perovskites protect dipoles from thermal interference, enabling room-temperature superfluorescence. The 'Quantum Analog of Vibration Isolation' mechanism creates a filter that allows synchronized emission of photons.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

‘Self-driving’ lab speeds up research, synthesis of energy materials

Researchers at NC State University have developed a 'self-driving lab' that uses artificial intelligence and fluidic systems to advance our understanding of metal halide perovskite nanocrystals. The technology can autonomously dope MHP nanocrystals, adding manganese atoms on demand, allowing for faster control over properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

Vehicles Play Important Role in PRRSV Transmission

Researchers from North Carolina State University found that trucks transporting pigs and farm workers can spread porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) among farms. The model estimated that vehicle movements contributed up to 20% of PRRSV transmissions, highlighting the importance of enhancing biosecurity measures ...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 7, 2022

During droughts, thirstier mountain forests could mean less water downstream

Higher elevation mountain forests are using more water on average during droughts, reducing water availability downstream for cities and wildlife. Researchers found that these forests tend to be located above 3,280 feet and have increased water use due to rising temperatures and changes in tree species composition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLandscape Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022