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North Carolina State University


A penny for your prions

Researchers discovered that prion proteins bind more stably to copper in human bodies, which may prevent their misfolding. The study suggests that copper binding could play a beneficial role in early stages of prion diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2009

Nontoxic hull coating resists barnacles, may save ship owners millions

Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a non-toxic coating that resists barnacle buildup for up to 18 months, saving ship owners millions in cleaning and fuel costs. The unique wrinkled topography of the coating prevents barnacles from latching on, a finding that could significantly reduce drag and fuel consumption.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 28, 2009

Beneficial plant 'spillover' effect seen from landscape corridors

Research by NC State University biologist Dr. Nick Haddad and colleagues found that landscape corridors connecting isolated habitat patches increased plant species beyond the area itself. The study showed that corridors caused a significant spillover effect, especially among bird-dispersed plants, leading to broader conservation benefits.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 20, 2009

'Beating' heart machine expedites research and development of new surgical tools, techniques

A North Carolina State University-developed machine allows researchers to test and refine technologies in a realistic surgical environment, saving time and money. The 'dynamic heart system' enables researchers to conduct 'proof of concept' evaluations before testing on live animals, making the development process more efficient.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 12, 2009

NC State study finds better way to protect streams from construction runoff

Researchers at NC State University have found an exponentially better way to protect streams and lakes from the muddy runoff associated with stormwater around road and other construction projects. The alternative method uses natural fiber check dams enhanced with polyacrylamide, significantly reducing sediment loss and pollution.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateApr 17, 2009

Device controls electron spin at room temperature

North Carolina State University scientists developed a GaMnN thin film-based device that manipulates both charge and spin of electrons at room temperature, surpassing previous devices which only functioned at -173°C. The new technology uses lower voltages to switch electron bias, improving semiconductor efficiency and speed.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 6, 2009

Shellfish and inkjet printers may hold key to faster healing from surgeries

Researchers have developed new medical adhesives using marine mussel glue and inkjet technology that are non-toxic, biodegradable and precise, promising improved wound repair and reduced scarring in surgeries. The adhesives could replace traditional sutures, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B Applied Biomaterials·DateMar 18, 2009

Grand prizes might help induce sports 'hot streaks'

A forthcoming study by North Carolina State University economists found that players who perform well early in the season have an incentive to maintain their high level of performance into the middle part of the season. This is because they are competing for a top-30 finish and a spot in the Tour Championship, which guarantees them mon...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Sports Economics·DateMar 17, 2009

Study to make public roads safer for farmers, drivers

A North Carolina State University study has identified five risk factors associated with farm vehicle crashes on public roads, including the use of non-English speaking drivers and young farm vehicle drivers. The study suggests that a comprehensive approach, including driver licensing, training, and monitoring, could reduce the risk of...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateNov 18, 2008

NC State study shows limits of using 'war on terror' to promote government policies

A new NC State University study reveals that ordinary people can work together to oppose the government's definition of a crisis and show how its actions undermine their American way of life. The study shows that defined as patriotic, common-sense citizens, opponents built a more credible connection to a patriotic American ethos.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSouthern Communication Journal·DateOct 22, 2008

New study finds first inhabitants of Caribbean brought drug heirlooms with them

A new study found physical evidence of ancient drug paraphernalia in the Caribbean, dated between 400 and 100 B.C., suggesting that the artifacts were transported to the islands as heirlooms. The research team used luminescence dating to analyze ceramic inhaling bowls, which indicated that they were not made using local materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateOct 20, 2008