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Rutgers University


The human sense of smell: It's stronger than we think

According to Rutgers University researcher John McGann, humans can detect and discriminate an extraordinary range of odors, rivaling that of rodents and dogs. The human olfactory bulb is similar in size and number of neurons to other mammals, challenging the long-held misconception about human sense of smell.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 2017

Zapping bacteria with sanitizers made of paper

A Rutgers-led team has invented a promising technology for killing microbes using paper-based sanitizers, which can eliminate more than 99 percent of bacteria cells. The devices consist of paper with thin layers of aluminum and hexagon/honeycomb patterns that produce plasma to kill microorganisms.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2017

Children experience long wait times for developmental and behavioral specialists

A Rutgers study finds that an estimated one in six US children have development disorders, but only 1,000 developmental pediatricians exist nationwide. The study also reveals a lack of programs offering accommodations for non-English speaking families, resulting in extended wait times and delayed diagnostic evaluations.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateMar 13, 2017

After Deepwater Horizon spill: Which animals weathered the disaster

A new study from Rutgers University reveals that killifish played a crucial role in the food web, while terns, gulls, and wading birds were highly sensitive to oil due to their extensive connections as prey and predator. The researchers identified blue crabs as key species for future research due to their importance in the ecosystem.

SourceRutgers University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 13, 2017

How evolution alters biological invasions

Rutgers scientists studied evolution in invaded ecosystems using glass jar experiments with thousands of microscopic organisms. The study found that microbes' interactions altered performance and led to differences in resident and invading species.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 13, 2017

Designing the future internet

Raychaudhuri's MobilityFirst project aims to rearchitect the internet with name-based routing, improving flexibility, security, and efficiency. The project has underway trials to deliver content closer to users, extend mobile services, and support targeted emergency messaging.

This little amoeba committed grand theft

Researchers have solved the mystery of how Paulinella, an amoeba, engulfed a bacterium and harnessed its genes for photosynthesis. The study reveals that microbial genomes can move genes between organisms according to need, and that this process allows for adaptation and evolution.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2016

Next century will bring deep water to New York City

Climate change and sea-level rise will increase the frequency of floods like Sandy's in NYC, with projected increases of up to 17 times more frequently. The study predicts that floods as intense as Sandy's will occur at least three times more frequently by 2100.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2016

Targeting brain cells to alleviate neuropathic pain

Researchers discovered that microglia brain immune cells play a major role in the initiation and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Targeting these cells within a few days after nerve injury can greatly reduce chronic pain in animals. This breakthrough could lead to more effective painkillers with fewer side effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2016

'Squishy' motors and wheels give soft robots a new ride

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a soft motor that enables torque without bending, making it suitable for search and rescue missions, deep space exploration, and manipulating objects during MRI. The squishy wheels allow for passive suspensions in wheeled vehicles, making the design simple yet effective.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 28, 2016

Experimental antibiotic treats deadly MRSA infection

Researchers successfully treat deadly MRSA infection in animals using the combination of antibiotic TXA709 with cefdinir, reducing potential resistance and side effects. The new treatment approach aims to develop a new class of antibiotics to combat rising antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 13, 2016

Pursuing the destruction of HIV-infected cells

Researchers at Rutgers University and Dartmouth College find that oral drug deferiprone kills HIV-infected cells in lab cultures and suppresses the virus in patients in a limited clinical trial. The treatment approach has potential as a new strategy for destroying the DNA harbored in HIV-infected cells.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 18, 2016

Does sexual aggression alter the female brain?

A Rutgers study found that prepubescent female rodents paired with sexually experienced males exhibited elevated stress hormones, reduced learning capabilities, and decreased maternal behaviors. This research sheds light on the consequences of sexual aggression in females, which is crucial for understanding its impact on women's mental...

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 19, 2016