Simulated map of missing satellite galaxies could answer dark matter puzzle
Chakrabarti's new study will create a simulated map of satellite populations from analyzing extended atomic hydrogen disks, which may answer the
Rochester Institute of Technology
Turning up the volume on prostate cancer
RIT professor Hans Schmitthenner is designing molecular imaging compounds that selectively target prostate cancer cells, using contrast dyes for improved detection. The preclinical phase project aims to enhance image-directed biopsies, potentially reducing pain and side effects.
Cyberheart research begins with virtual models, mathematics and NSF support
Rochester Institute of Technology professor Elizabeth Cherry is developing virtual heart models for cyber-physical systems as part of a five-year NSF project. The Cyberheart platform will analyze and simulate medical device interactions with patient-specific heart models, enabling safe and effective software for future medical devices.
RIT researcher wins NIH award for developing new atrial fibrillation solution
Behnaz Ghoraani's novel algorithm allows improved and patient-specific localization of electrical disturbance sites, enabling clinicians to better target the problem. The technology helps doctors 'see' what's going on in the atrium by analyzing patterns of electrical signals, guiding them to where they need to sense.
RIT scientist chosen as an Astronomy in Chile Educator Ambassador
Brian Koberlein, RIT's senior lecturer in Physics and Astronomy, will visit telescope sites in Chile from June 20-30 to learn about instruments and research. He aims to bring this connection to his students, highlighting US astronomy efforts and their impact on society.
Flip-flopping black holes spin to the end of the dance
Researchers at RIT studied binary spinning black hole interactions, revealing a long-term spin dynamic that continuously flips the spin until merger. This process may affect the growth of black holes surrounded by accretion disks and alter galactic and supermassive binary black holes.
Lifting the veil on a dark galaxy
Astronomers validate earlier prediction of dark-matter dominated dwarf galaxy's location by discovering young Cepheid variables in the Norma constellation. The discovery sheds light on the nature of dark matter and confirms Newton's theory of gravity.
'Smart dust' technology could reshape space telescopes
Scientists at RIT and NASA are exploring a new type of space telescope using swarms of particles controlled by laser to form large-aperture lenses. This concept could lead to unprecedented resolution and detail in astrophysical imaging and remote sensing.
Thomas Gaborski named 2014 Young Innovator by international Biomedical Engineering Society
RIT professor Thomas Gaborski is using ultra-thin nano-membranes and adipose stem cells to create functional vascular networks necessary in engineering tissue, skin, and organs. His research aims to address the critical shortage of donor organs and alleviate organ rejection by utilizing a person's own stem cells.
'Grapes of Wrath': Stomping out grape disease one vineyard at a time
Researchers create genetic profile of grape crown gall tumor disease, identifying core microbiome common to 52 sampled tumors. The study aims to improve disease management and crop production of all grape varieties.
Diving for pearls with the Hubble Space Telescope
A team of astronomers from RIT helped analyze data showing two elliptical galaxies coalescing in a dense galaxy cluster. The study reveals rare insights into elliptical galaxy mergers and finds a string-of-pearl star formation structure with 19 young blue clusters.
Imaging tools help radiologists diagnose lung cancer, save lives
Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology create algorithms to quantify lung nodule growth on CT scans, identifying small cancers and obviating risky biopsies. The software compensates for background factors and estimates nodule volumes, enabling accurate doubling time calculation and malignant growth detection.
Map of universe questioned; dwarf galaxies don't fit standard model
A new study questions the accepted model of galaxy formation, suggesting that dwarf galaxies may have formed from another galaxy through a tidal interaction. The research criticizes three recent papers that found satellite galaxies to support the standard model, instead finding 'serious issues' with their methods.
SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 11, 2014
RIT engineering team designs online math and science activities for K-12 community
The REMS Program provides a series of online STEM activities for elementary, middle, and high school students, featuring real-world scenarios and adaptations for different grade levels. The program aims to associate math and science with solving engineering problems, making it more engaging and relevant for students.
A cure for dry eye could be a blink away
Researchers studied the basic motion of tear film traversing the eye to develop a potential cure for dry eye. The simulation found that blinking is necessary to stop the thinning of the tear film, and flooding the eye with liquid does not relieve the issue.
RIT announces plans for a new school, degree programs devoted to health and nutrition
RIT is launching a new school of health and nutrition, which will focus on educating students on the role of nutrition, exercise and behavior modification in promoting healthy lifestyles. The school will also address critical health issues such as high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, and obesity.
NSF supports extreme black hole research at RIT with $525,000 grant
Scientists at Rochester Institute of Technology will simulate extreme black holes with support from a $525,000 grant. Their contributions will help advance the international effort to confirm the existence of gravitational waves and black holes, anticipating new field discoveries.
Turning autism upside down: When symptoms are strengths
A novel approach to treating autism spectrum disorder teaches affected children to control their autonomic nervous system using computerized biofeedback and clinical hypnosis. The method recognizes symptoms as an effort to self-regulate inner turmoil, allowing children to feel better and be more socially engaging.
SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Hypnosis·DateNov 25, 2013
Rwandan teens learn mapping skills with smart phones and tablet PCs
A community-mapping project in Rwanda provides high school students with spatial-thinking skills using tablet computers and smart phones. The project aims to train 225 students in natural resource mapping and synthesize data about local agriculture, weather, water quality, and infrastructure.
Starting from scratch: RIT program teaches first-year students how to learn
RIT's Project IMPRESS aims to teach students self-reflection and self-assessment skills to improve success rates. The program uses a three-pronged approach, including a summer experience and learning assistant role.
NASA-led study explains decades of black hole observations
A new NASA-led study confirms the production of high-energy X-rays from gas spiraling into a black hole. The research models the complex motions and turbulent magnetic fields in the accretion disk, reproducing important features long observed in active black holes.
RIT researchers develop advanced video and image processing
Researchers at RIT are developing advanced intelligence processing technologies to handle large volumes of high-resolution, remotely sensed images. They aim to distinguish objects, scale, complexity and organization using topological features and segmentation methodologies.
RIT scientists decode 3 bacterial strains common to grapevines and sugarcane
Scientists at Rochester Institute of Technology have published the whole genome sequence of three bacteria associated with Jamaican sugarcane and Riesling grapevines. The genomes reveal genetic instructions that make up individual organisms, providing data for the prevention or management of diseases afflicting crops.
Advanced manufacturing venture highlights region's economic prospects
The university will utilize new state-of-the-art equipment to develop applications such as smart sensors and biomedical devices. Researchers aim to transform the manufacturing industry through applied research, education, and industrial outreach.
RIT receives $3.2 million award from the NSF to advance female faculty
Rochester Institute of Technology has received a $3.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to improve gender equity for female faculty. The project, CONNECT@RIT, aims to address issues of recruitment, retention, and advancement through new initiatives and policies.
RIT professor studies connection between child, mother mortality
A new study co-conducted by RIT researcher reveals a significant link between the death of a child and increased mother mortality, with mortality rates rising 133% within two years of a child's passing. The study analyzed over 69,000 mothers and provides insights for public health policy and early intervention strategies.
Sweeping X-ray imaging survey of dying stars is 'uncharted territory'
A team of astronomers, led by Joel Kastner from RIT, has conducted the most comprehensive X-ray survey to date for planetary nebulae using Chandra's exceptional 'X-ray vision'. The study reveals new insights into the violent processes of stellar death and wind collisions in X-rays.
RIT leads development of next-generation infrared detectors
Researchers at RIT and Raytheon are developing larger, cheaper infrared detectors grown on silicon wafers. This technology could enable more scientists to access infrared astronomy, find exoplanets, and study the universe's acceleration. The new detectors may also advance remote sensing and medical imaging.
RIT professor receives National Science Foundation grant to improve on-chip networks with wireless technology
Researchers at RIT are working with Washington State University and Georgia Tech to develop a new infrastructure that could increase computing speed and reduce power usage in chip processors. The goal is to integrate wireless technology with copper wiring, allowing multiple processing engines to communicate simultaneously.
Grant awarded to help improve problem-solving skills for deaf and hard-of-hearing students
Researchers at RIT are developing experiential learning modules to address barriers faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing students in STEM fields. The three-year project aims to enhance problem-solving skills, teamwork, and process improvement through immersive hands-on activities.
Taking the pulse of an iceberg -- scientists simulate laser imaging for NASA missions
A team from RIT and UB is simulating laser imaging for NASA's ICESat-2 mission to better interpret changes in polar ice. The technology will create three-dimensional renderings of ice sheets and glaciers, allowing scientists to measure annual changes in ice-sheet thickness with high accuracy.
Use of technology-rich learning environment reveals improved retention rates
Researchers found that technology-rich environments, including tablet PCs and collaborative software, improved retention rates and reduced student withdrawals. Students preferred the interactive approach over traditional lectures, leading to better understanding and retention of technical information.
Opening the data bank -- scientists try to match new protein structures
Researchers at RIT and Dowling College are working on a three-year study to match the protein to its job in the human body. They will use a library of 400 protein motifs associated with known functions and compare proteins from the Research Collaboratory for Structural Biology Protein Data Bank with existing active-site templates.
Mysterious absorption lines could illuminate 90-year puzzle
Astronomers have identified 13 new diffuse interstellar bands with the longest wavelengths to date, which could help explain the presence of large organic molecules in space. The discovery supports recent ideas that these molecules, or 'carriers,' are hidden in interstellar dust clouds.
Outsmarting algae -- RIT scientist finds the turn-off switch
Researchers have deciphered the structure of an essential enzyme in photosynthetic organisms, a target for algaecide development. This discovery could lead to the creation of compounds that block the enzyme's function, inhibiting algae growth without harming other plant life.
Benchmarking a slice of Africa; preserving biodiversity through science
A multidisciplinary team led by RIT professor Anthony Vodacek is conducting a comprehensive survey of Lake Kivu to understand the interplay between volcanism, faulting, and biological processes on the region's biodiversity. The study aims to provide scientific data for informed decision-making on land use and preservation in Rwanda.
Model developed to improve combination vaccine accessibility worldwide
A mathematical approach has been developed to make complex combination vaccines more affordable for developing countries. The model considers key factors in providing accessible vaccines, including production capacity and pricing strategies.
Study: Abuse rates higher among deaf and hard-of-hearing children compared with hearing youths
A new study reveals that deaf and hard-of-hearing children are more likely to experience abuse and neglect, with higher rates of depression and post-traumatic stress in adulthood. The research found that having a deaf parent or family member did not reduce the risk of childhood maltreatment.
Pushing black-hole mergers to the extreme: RIT scientists achieve 100:1 mass ratio
Researchers have simulated the merger of two black holes with vastly different sizes, achieving a 100:1 mass ratio for the first time. This breakthrough allows for more realistic astrophysical scenarios and prediction of observational effects.
Scientists use light signatures to track merging supermassive black holes
Researchers are tracing electromagnetic signatures back to the impact of colliding black holes to detect them with ordinary visible light. They're creating a detailed blueprint for future scientists and simulating mergers to aid in gravitational wave discovery, proving general relativity.
RIT receives federal grant to construct new sustainability research facility
The Rochester Institute of Technology will construct a new green facility housing the Golisano Institute for Sustainability, utilizing the award to promote sustainable processes and serve as a model for other universities. The institute conducts cutting-edge research in nanotechnology, alternative energy development, and sustainable de...
Research team assesses environmental impact of organic solar cells
A research team from Rochester Institute of Technology conducted a life-cycle assessment of organic solar cells, revealing lower embodied energy compared to conventional inorganic devices. The study also found potential benefits for manufacturing, including low-cost solution processing.
Enigmatic star devours companion; possibly pregnant with second-generation planets
Astronomer Joel Kastner finds evidence that a variable star in the Pisces constellation is a one billion-year-old red giant that has swallowed a companion star, forming an orbiting disk that may contain second-generation planets. The star's extreme properties and X-ray production rate point to its advanced age.
What the doctor prescribes: Customized medical-image databases
A customized medical-image database is being developed with input from dermatologists and incorporating novel eye-tracking techniques to identify critical regions in images. The project aims to bridge the semantic gap in content-based image retrieval by leveraging end-user knowledge and expertise.
Detector technology could help NASA find Earth-like exoplanets
Rochester Institute of Technology scientist Don Figer is developing a new detector technology that can directly image and characterize exoplanets, potentially finding smaller, rocky planets like Earth. This technology could reduce detection time by one-third and overcome current limitations.
Supermassive black holes may frequently roam galaxy centers
A team of researchers discovered that a supermassive black hole at the center of the most massive local galaxy, M87, is displaced from its expected location. The finding suggests that supermassive black holes may be commonly offset from their host galaxy centers due to previous mergers or interactions with jets.
New study examines use of social media in the classroom
A recent study by Rochester Institute of Technology found that using social media in classrooms has little effect on building student connections and social capital. The research used course management systems and discussion groups to enhance instruction, but results showed no measurable impact on students' social networks.
E20 fuel reduces carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions in automobiles
A new study by the Rochester Institute of Technology indicates that E20 fuel blends reduce tail pipe emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide without impacting vehicle drivability. The research found an average emissions reduction of 23% for carbon monoxide and 13% for hydrocarbon emissions compared to conventional gasoline.
Early warning system would predict space storms on Mars
A new monitoring system developed by RIT professor Roger Dube will predict space storms on Mars and provide early warnings for the critical infrastructure on Earth. The system uses artificial intelligence to recognize signs of a dangerous flux of particles, enabling at least three days' advanced warning for people living on both planets.
RIT captures Haiti disaster with high-tech imaging system
The Rochester Institute of Technology is using a high-tech imaging system to map the damage in Haiti and provide critical insight for recovery efforts. The system, which combines thermal imaging and LIDAR technology, is being used to detect fires, chemical spills, and surface contamination.