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Rutgers University


Rutgers engineers 3-D print shape-shifting smart gel

Researchers at Rutgers University have created a 4D-printed shape-shifting smart gel that can morph over time and temperatures change. The gel can provide structural rigidity in organs like the lungs and create new applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, and scaffolds for cell growth.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 2018

Rutgers scientists discover 'Legos of life'

Researchers identified four fundamental building blocks for all proteins, which can be stacked together to form energy-rich molecules available to humans and other living organisms. The discovery could lead to applications in biomedical engineering, therapeutic proteins, and industrial catalysts.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Depression in black adolescents requires different treatment

A new study led by Rutgers University-Camden researcher Wenhua Lu found that Black adolescents express depressive symptoms through complaints about interpersonal struggles and physical pains. This highlights the need for clinicians to tailor treatments such as interpersonal psychotherapy to address these unique expressions of depression.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of the Society for Social Work and Research·DateJan 5, 2018

Speaking up against bigotry can reduce bad behavior

Rutgers psychologists discover that confronting people about bigoted statements can lead to a lasting reduction in prejudice. Confrontation causes individuals to feel bad and consciously avoid repeating such statements, with effects persisting even a week after the initial encounter.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

Age and gut bacteria contribute to MS disease progression, according to Rutgers

A study by Rutgers University researchers suggests that gut bacteria at a young age contributes to the onset and progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study found that genetically engineered mice exposed to normal environment developed MS-like disease, highlighting the role of gut bacteria in triggering immune system changes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2017

How to control traffic on cellular highways

Researchers have identified enzymes that regulate the speed of protein cargo trucks on cellular highways, a discovery with implications for spinal cord and nerve injuries as well as neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that these enzymes, TTLL-11 and CCPP-1, work together to control traffic flow on microtubule highways.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 9, 2017

Taming 'wild' electrons in graphene

Researchers successfully controlled electrons in graphene using a high-tech microscope, paving the way for novel electronic devices. This breakthrough could lead to ultra-fast transport of electrons with low energy loss in applications such as transistors and sensors.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 23, 2017

A sea of spinning electrons

Scientists have discovered a 'chiral spin mode' - a sea of electrons spinning in opposing circles that can transport information with little energy dissipation. This breakthrough paves the way for building novel electronic devices such as computers and processors with reduced energy loss.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2017

Creating brain cells to detect Tourette's

Researchers at Rutgers University created brain cells from blood samples of individuals in a three-generation family with Tourette syndrome. The study found that a mutation in the PNKD gene is likely the cause of the disorder, which affects one in every 100-150 people in the US.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 25, 2017

Deep roots in plants driven by soil hydrology

A global synthesis study led by Rutgers University professor Ying Fan Reinfelder shows strong links between root depth and local soil and water conditions. Plants adapt to droughts by shifting to wetter environments through seed dispersal.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2017

Premature infants at greater risk of SIDS

Rutgers researchers found premature infants between 24-27 weeks have a three times higher risk of dying before first birthday due to SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths. Safe sleep practices, such as putting infants on their back to sleep, can help compensate for this risk.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 26, 2017

Reshaping Darwin's tree of life

Researchers from Rutgers University and international collaborators introduce the SYMPHY framework, which classifies life based on symbiotic relationships. This new approach could lead to breakthroughs in environmental issues, sustainable agriculture, and human health.