Xiaohu Xia's research focuses on enhancing diagnostic efficacy of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing using specially tailored nickel-platinum nanoparticles. His goal is to improve disease detection accuracy by more than 300 times, enabling early diagnosis of cancers like prostate and colorectal cancer.
A research team led by UCF's Mário Nascimento De Prá and Noemí Pinilla-Alonso discovered carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices on 59 trans-Neptunian objects using the James Webb Space Telescope. The findings suggest that carbon dioxide was abundant in the protoplanetary disk, while the origin of carbon monoxide remains uncertain.
UCF assistant professors Li Fang and Fan Yao have been awarded the 2024 NSF Faculty Early Career Development program award for their research projects. Fang is studying photo-induced ultrafast electron-nuclear dynamics in molecules, while Yao is identifying lapses in computer processing security at the micro level.
A UCF researcher is developing algorithms to track space objects and predict their orbits, which will also aid in maritime domain awareness. The computational framework will enable spacecraft to operate autonomously without intervention from Earth.
A UCF student's study of 25 members of the Erigone family of primitive asteroids has provided context for further research into the solar system's history. The data analysis suggests that these asteroids carry traces of their origins and may have delivered water to Earth, with implications for future NASA missions.
The University of Central Florida is establishing itself as a leader in hypersonics and space propulsion research with substantial new funding from the US Department of Defense. The funding will support the construction of a hypersonic testing facility, flight experiments and further advancements of the technology.
A new therapy has been identified that can penetrate the slime protecting drug-resistant bacteria, allowing it to be killed by the body's immune system or antibiotics. The antimicrobial peptide, derived from cow peptides, targets sugar connections in the slime structure, damaging its integrity and allowing entry.
A computer vision researcher has developed privacy software for surveillance videos that obscures identifiable information such as faces and clothing in real-time. The software, funded by the National Science Foundation's Accelerating Research Translation program, aims to balance surveillance needs with privacy concerns.
A team of UCF researchers is exploring the use of gold to develop a novel method to rid drinking water of harmful algal blooms, which produce toxic effects on humans and wildlife. The project aims to remove microcystins, toxins linked to liver damage, kidney failure, and allergic reactions.
A team of UCF researchers has received a $1.5 million grant from the US Department of Energy to develop a novel metallization process for solar cells. The goal is to increase efficiency and lower production costs, making solar energy more accessible.
A team of UCF scientists used the James Webb Space Telescope to analyze the elemental composition of a binary duo in the Kuiper Belt, revealing clues about Neptune's formation. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamical history of Neptune and its neighboring objects.
A UCF-developed technology uses a plasmonic platform to detect the chirality of molecules with high precision, enabling more accurate drug development and therapies. The platform improves upon current methods with sensitivity nearly 13 orders of magnitude greater.
A team led by UCF College of Nursing Professor Victoria Loerzel developed an innovative educational game for older adults with cancer, simulating symptoms and self-management. The game was successful in increasing the use of preventative strategies among participants, reducing symptom severity and hospital admissions.
A new UCF study found that the 2018 Florida red tide bloom caused $2.7 billion in losses to tourism-related businesses, with low concentrations having a significant economic impact. The research highlights the importance of risk management tools for individuals and businesses affected by harmful algae blooms.
The UCF PRINT project has received national funding to digitize migrant communication networks and explore the history of early modern migration in the Atlantic world. The project will map the connections between European religious minorities and their influence on migration patterns.
A new technique for photon detection has been developed by UCF researcher Debashis Chanda, offering ultra-sensitive detection at room temperature. The method uses a phase-change material to modulate the frequency of an oscillating circuit, paving the way for low-cost, high-efficiency uncooled infrared detectors and imaging systems.
A new study by UCF researcher Jeff Gish found that former entrepreneurs can successfully transition into employees, especially in roles harnessing their entrepreneurial spirit. Identity conflict between old and new selves was associated with burnout and lower boosterism levels.
Researchers will incorporate advanced semiconductor technologies and AI into a millimeter-wave radio system to increase bandwidth while reducing energy consumption. The project aims to save tens to hundreds of terawatt-hours of energy per year, contributing to climate change mitigation.
The University of Central Florida has been awarded $50,000 each by the NASA Minority University Research and Education Project Partnership Annual Notification (MPLAN) awards. The research focuses on developing wireless multimodal sensors and studying sustainable aviation fuels to reduce environmental impact.
The project, funded by a $927,203 grant, uses virtual reality and machine learning to identify misconceptions in quantum information science. UCF will develop desktop and smartphone versions of QubitVR for broader impacts, aiming to empower students and professionals to harness the power of quantum computing.
Researchers at UCF developed a new class of optical modulators to address limitations in data transfer over optical fiber communication, reducing lag and improving reliability. The technology uses phase diversity and differential operations to ensure accurate and efficient transmission.
Dr. Hung Nguyen is studying how medium chain fatty acid foods like coconut oil and avocados affect GVHD severity and mortality in transplant patients. His goal is to develop a dietary approach that reduces inflammation and corticosteroid use, improving patient outcomes for blood cancers.
A new study found that a deadly frog disease, Perkinsea, is more widespread in Central Florida than expected, infecting over a third of sampled frogs. The disease is linked to cooler temperatures and higher precipitation, posing a concern for threatened species like the gopher frog.
A new Naval Research Laboratory-funded project led by UCF researcher Kareem Ahmed aims to create a morphing hypersonic engine that can optimize performance and travel distance. The $450,000 grant will develop an adaptable engine configuration that can self-optimize its surfaces for maximum performance power, thrust, and travel distance.
A new UCF project aims to examine a method to keep carbon from escaping soils and trapping heat in Earth's atmosphere. Researchers will focus on histosols in the Everglades Agricultural Area, adding fine minerals to prevent carbon release.
A UCF researcher is developing a new antibiotic to treat tuberculosis and related lung infections. The team aims to create potent antimycobacterial agents that can be administered orally and target drug-resistant strains.
Researchers are creating synthetic microbiomes to protect aquatic environments from bacteria, improving shrimp health and reducing the risk of disease in aquaculture farms. The team is collaborating with farmers in Ecuador to develop new microbial communities that will increase resistance to pathogenic bacteria.
A University of Central Florida engineer is leading a $3.3 million ARPA-E funded project to develop simulation software for floating offshore wind turbines. The goal is to improve turbine design and increase their use as a renewable energy source. The software will be licensed or commercialized and can be hosted on a university web page.
A new UCF study found that insurance coverage of extended-release buprenorphine injections is lacking, with only 46% of commercial plans and 19% of Medicare Advantage plans covering it. Prior-authorization requirements also pose a barrier to access, particularly for Medicaid plans.
Researchers have identified anti-malarial properties in cancer drugs, offering a potential solution to the growing crisis of drug-resistant malaria. The study found that certain protein kinase inhibitors exhibited strong anti-malarial effects, highlighting a new approach to accelerating drug discovery.
The University of Central Florida has launched a five-year program to increase diversity among student researchers focused on health disparities in aging. The INTREPID program aims to provide hands-on learning, promote an affinity toward older adults, and create a sense of community through socialization.
UCF researcher Dr. Justine Tigno-Aranjuez has discovered a new receptor that recognizes house dust mite allergens, opening up potential for broad-spectrum therapy. The finding could lead to improved treatments for common allergies, including asthma.
Scientists have developed an innovative platform using engineered human tissue to study how pathogens carried by mosquitoes impact and infect human cells. This breakthrough holds promise for studying other disease vectors like ticks, which spread Lyme disease.
A UCF research team, led by Jill Viglione, has developed evidence-based guidelines for community supervision agencies to use in public health crises. The guidelines aim to ensure people on probation and parole receive necessary help while maintaining public safety.
A new study reveals that asteroid Dinkinesh is remarkably small, making it the smallest asteroid to be approached by Lucy. It is a stony, S-type asteroid composed mainly of silicates and some metal.
A team of scientists, including a University of Central Florida researcher, is developing oyster-based shoreline protection for U.S. coastlines. The project aims to create self-repairing reef-mimicking structures to mitigate coastal flooding and erosion.
A new immunotherapy treatment developed by UCF researchers uses targeted IL-2 to fight respiratory viral infections with improved outcomes in animal studies. The treatment promotes an antiviral inflammatory response and reduces bronchial inflammation.
Researchers identify OmpU protein variants associated with antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Understanding the evolutionary origins of AMR can inform the development of effective therapeutics against resistant infections.
The University of Central Florida has developed the Virtual Experience Research Accelerator (VERA), a large-scale system for extended reality human subjects research. This project aims to facilitate human subjects research and improve extended reality technologies, making them more inclusive for underrepresented groups.
Limbitless Solutions has been selected as one of eight winners for the 2023 Unity for Humanity Grant. The organization will use $85,000 to develop its video game Quantum's Pursuit, which aims to empower children and adults with limb differences to learn how to use their bionic arms in a fun and engaging way.
A team of UCF College of Medicine researchers created a digital topographical map of the cardiac sympathetic neural network, controlling heart rate and 'fight-or-flight' response. The map will guide treatments like neuromodulation therapy for hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart failure.
A UCF research team, in partnership with the City of Orlando, aims to prevent falls among older adults through a low-cost, portable technology-based intervention. The project seeks to address public health disparities and support the development of affordable housing options.
A University of Central Florida professor led a study identifying six challenges humans must overcome to ensure reliable, safe, trustworthy, and compatible AI. The challenges include responsible design, privacy protection, and respectful interaction with human cognitive capacities.
A team of UCF researchers is working on a new project to educate the next generation of nurses, nurse practitioners, and social workers to improve heart health in medically underserved communities. They are using high-fidelity simulation scenarios to foster inter- and intradisciplinary care.
A UCF researcher has developed the first environmentally friendly, multicolor alternative to pigment-based colorants using structural colors from butterflies. The new plasmonic paint is lightweight, non-toxic, and reflects the entire infrared spectrum, promising significant energy savings and reduced global warming.
The UCF Advanced Air Mobility Conference aims to generate knowledge on the significance and feasibility of AAM, exploring law's impact on its development and potential benefits for urban mobility. Researchers will discuss issues such as property law, jurisdiction, safety, and social equity.
Researchers seek to develop algorithms providing meaningful explanations for AI decision-making, enabling higher human trust and adoption in fields like science. The project focuses on symbolic reasoning and estimating explanation accuracy, addressing the need for transparent AI systems.
A new study by University of Central Florida researchers found that people who are more environmentally friendly and satisfied with their life are more likely to cycle post-pandemic. The survey analysis of over 7,000 respondents showed a significant increase in cycling intentions among women without vehicles and full-time employees.
Assistant Professor Samik Bhattacharya is studying bird wing morphing to engineer stable solutions for unmanned aerial vehicles and micro air vehicles. His research could lead to improved control during airflow disturbances, reducing anxiety for pilots.
A UCF cancer researcher is studying the molecular causes of Alzheimer's disease by examining a protein deficiency in the brain. His research may lead to new targets for therapy and earlier diagnosis. The study focuses on KLF8, a protein important for brain function that has been recorded as deficient in patients with Alzheimer's.