Researchers have successfully thawed ice from Lake Vostok, an ancient lake beneath Antarctica, in search of microorganisms that may hold secrets to surviving in extreme environments. The team aims to gain insights into how these tiny organisms adapted to live in darkness and isolation.
Researchers, led by Liyun Wang, aim to shed light on how osteocytes sense external stimuli and communicate with surface cells. This study may lead to effective drug therapies for treating debilitating bone diseases.
Researchers at the University of Delaware successfully transport an electron's spin a marathon distance through a silicon wafer, confirming its potential for spintronics. The finding opens doors to cheaper, faster, and lower-power processing and storage of data.
The University of Delaware has been selected as a regional research site for the National Children's Study, which will follow 100,000 children from birth to age 21. Researchers will monitor child health and gather data on environmental factors to prevent and treat diseases such as autism and obesity.
Scientists have identified the toxin produced by Phragmites australis as 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, which causes structural protein disintegration in neighboring plant roots, leading to their death. The exotic strain releases higher concentrations of the toxin than native strains, contributing to its invasive success.
A University of Delaware-led team is working to advance scientific understanding of the rice epigenome, which regulates gene expression. The four-year project uses novel 'deep sequencing' technology to decode millions of DNA sequences and shed light on similar mechanisms in corn and other cereal grains.
Researchers have figured out how to train synthetic polymer molecules to self-assemble into long, multicompartment cylinders with potential applications in radiology and signal communication. The discovery, reported in Science, has the potential to provide sustained delivery of chemotherapy from a single injection.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have confirmed that a natural enzyme called phytase has helped Delaware chickens digest more phosphorus, reducing output in chicken manure. As a result, phosphorus loads to the environment have been reduced by some 2 million to 3 million pounds per year.
A new University of Delaware research project aims to engineer functional vocal cord tissue to replace scarred, rigid tissue. The team is developing novel biomaterials that mimic the molecular composition and mechanical responsiveness of natural extracellular matrices, with the goal of improving pliability and preventing scarring.
A landmark study found that adult Delawareans with disabilities have only fair to poor health, with high rates of obesity, diabetes, and secondary health conditions. The study also highlighted the importance of caregivers and the need for improved health education and awareness.
A University of Delaware-led team achieved a record-breaking combined solar cell efficiency of 42.8 percent from sunlight, surpassing the current record of 40.7 percent. The innovative technology incorporates spectral splitting optics with high-performance crystalline silicon solar cells.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new biomaterial that can be injected into wounds to deliver targeted payloads of cells and antibiotics, enabling repair and regeneration of damaged tissue. The hydrogels also display antimicrobial properties, making them suitable for treating infections.
The University of Delaware has received a $11 million grant from the NIH to conduct translational research on osteoarthritis, focusing on tissue mechanics and biomechanics. A unique mentoring program will also support women biomedical researchers at UD.
Researchers at University of Delaware and Delaware State University received nearly $1 million to develop blast-resistant materials and MIMO radar systems. The goal is to create a powerful tool for detecting bombs, enemy targets, and assisting rescue operations.
The University of Delaware is building 'IceTop,' a surface array of detectors for the IceCube project, which aims to detect high-energy particles from space. The telescope will provide new insights into cosmic events and reveal their inner workings.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have demonstrated the transport and coherent manipulation of electron spin in silicon, a crucial step towards harnessing its potential in spintronics. The discovery could lead to exponentially faster and more powerful electronics, including quantum computers.
The University of Delaware has been awarded a $1.9 million grant to establish a Center for Spintronics and Biodetection, which aims to harness the magnetic properties of electrons to encode and process data. The center will focus on developing highly sensitive sensors that can detect tiny magnetic fields generated by nanoparticles.
Xinqiao Jia is awarded a National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Award for her work on developing strong, yet soft and flexible biomaterials for engineering damaged tissues. Her goal is to create hybrid materials that can respond rapidly and reversibly to mechanical forces.
Thomas H. Epps III, a recipient of the prestigious Faculty Early Career Development Award from the National Science Foundation, is advancing the development of high-performance materials through his research on block copolymers. His five-year grant will support the creation of nanoscale materials with unique properties, potentially lea...
Michael Shay, a UD assistant professor of physics and astronomy, received an NSF Faculty Early Career Development Award to study magnetic reconnection and its impact on space weather. His research aims to predict solar storms and protect astronauts and satellites.
As people age, their neurons must speak more loudly to muscles to achieve precise control, leading to poorer physical responses and increased falls. Exercise, such as weight training, can increase firing rates and preserve motor capacity in older adults.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to simulate the hidden properties of water, resolving long-standing ambiguities in its structure and behavior. The study uses quantum mechanics to predict the properties of liquid water, opening up new avenues for understanding its applications in various fields.
Researchers at the University of Delaware will identify nano-sized catalysts to convert liquid fuels into hydrogen. The goal is to supply affordable hydrogen with reduced emissions for powering cars and heating homes.
Researchers estimate that thousands of wind turbines could generate up to 330 gigawatts of average electrical power off the Mid-Atlantic coast, reducing carbon emissions by 68% and greenhouse gases by 57%. The study's findings suggest a significant potential for offshore wind energy in the region.
A survey conducted by University of Delaware researchers found that over 90% of Delawareans support offshore wind power, even with increased electric bills. The study suggests that increasing public awareness and concern about climate change may contribute to this strong support.
Researchers at UD University discovered a new class of polymers that can be transformed into ultra-thin films with potential applications in coatings, optics, and electronics. The discovery was made possible by a novel polymerization technique developed by the team, which eliminates the need for solvents.
Researchers have confirmed that veins stiffen as we age, a change that may contribute to high blood pressure. Regular exercise training may help maintain vein flexibility. The study, led by William Farquhar from the University of Delaware, recruited healthy young and older adults and monitored their blood flow.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a method to detect defects in composite materials using a network of carbon nanotubes. The discovery has significant implications for predicting the lifespan of composite materials and ensuring their safety in various applications, including commercial airliners.
Researchers discovered that a dissolved form of manganese can keep toxic hydrogen sulfide zones in check by reacting with oxygen and hydrogen sulfide. This finding alters the understanding of manganese aqueous geochemistry and has implications for waterways like the Black Sea and Chesapeake Bay.
Researchers have developed a method to detect super-salty, submerged eddies called Meddies using sensor data from U.S. and European satellites. These warm, deep-water whirlpools play a significant role in carrying salty water from the Mediterranean Sea into the Atlantic, affecting global ocean circulation and climate change.
University of Delaware researchers have developed a new therapeutic agent called 'nanobombs' that use carbon nanotubes to selectively kill cancer cells. The nanobombs are created by bundling carbon nanotubes and can be triggered by light, causing microscopic explosions that target specific areas within the body.
Researchers from the University of Delaware made a breakthrough in studying small RNAs by applying Massively Parallel Signature Sequencing (MPSS) to Arabidopsis. The study identified over 75,000 different small RNA sequences and provided quantitative information on their abundance and regulation.
Researchers found that public opposition to offshore wind projects is driven by concerns about the ocean's aesthetic value and emotional connection. The study suggests that a better understanding of these values can inform a more effective policy framework for offshore wind development.
The University of Delaware has launched a new, 146-foot coastal research vessel to replace its aging ship, Cape Henlopen. The vessel will feature state-of-the-art modular design and clean operation, meeting international underwater noise standards.
Researchers track freshwater discharge from Arctic Ocean to North Atlantic, measuring ocean currents, temperature, and salinity. The study, funded by $2 million NSF grant, aims to understand the crucial role of Arctic freshwater in controlling Earth's climate.
An international team conducted genetic tests of bacteria thriving in Antarctica's Dry Valleys, a frigid desert with no recent rainfall. The research aimed to understand how these microbes survive and shed light on the possibility of life on other planets.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a portable detection platform that can detect chemical and biological weapons using infrared spectroscopy. The device, about the size of a large shoebox, can identify even small amounts of agents in solid, liquid or vapor phases.
A new study by Valerie Hans reveals that potential jurors are skeptical of people who file whiplash lawsuits, leading to doubts about the legitimacy of claims. The research found that 92% of respondents believed frivolous lawsuits are common, resulting in lower settlements and more jury trials.
Researchers have developed an electrochemical analyzer to detect sulfur-rich compounds at deep-sea vents. The sensor may help identify ancient bacteria and unlock important information about vent life.
University of Delaware scientists, including Craig Cary, embark on the first deep-sea dive of the new century to explore extreme organisms and understand life's origins. They will collect samples of toxic chemicals, organisms, rocks, and minerals using special instruments like deep-sea sensors.
Researchers at UD's Bartol Institute are using a new parallel computing facility to simulate coronal heating, a phenomenon that affects satellites and life on Earth. The simulations provide insights into the fundamental nature of space physics and plasma properties.
Cooperative Extension specialists from the University of Delaware discussed the scope of issues surrounding genetically modified foods, including science, ethics, and production. They addressed concerns about resistance to GMOs in European Common Market and debated how to advise farmers on planting GMO crops for next year's harvest.
Researchers investigate plant microbiome interactions to optimize nitrogen uptake, reducing fertilizer needs. Janine Sherrier's presentation at UD explores symbiotic relationships between legumes and soil bacteria.
Researchers are developing a new sandwich structure made from lightweight honeycomb core and curved composite panels, which can contribute to faster boats and fuel-efficient airliners. The key attribute of the material is its light weight, resulting from the honeycomb-like design of the inner core.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new artificial hip design that reduces stress shielding and prevents bone atrophy in younger patients. The design is based on an analysis of real loading conditions within the human hip region and has been shown to consistently perform better than conventional designs.
Researchers have developed a new membrane-based system that can separate proteins from impurities in a single step, potentially reducing production costs and increasing efficiency. The technology, known as the 'salt cloud' concept, exploits the natural charge on proteins to improve separation rates.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have created a porous, rainbow-colored metal that acts like a prism, diffracting a spectrum of colors. The material's tiny holes are 20,000 times smaller than existing metal meshes and could be used to steer light in photooptic computer components.
Outbreaks of toxic Pfiesteria microorganisms in recreational waterways can have significant impacts on summer tourism and seafood sales. According to a survey of 3,500 coastal residents, a Pfiesteria outbreak could reduce tourism by at least 40% and lead to nearly two-thirds of respondents eating less locally harvested seafood. Consume...
Researchers are developing tiny, chip-based laboratories to speed up the search for new medicines by analyzing thousands of compounds simultaneously. This microscale analysis will enable faster, more cost-effective discovery in the fields of materials science and chemistry.
A new material featuring 'buckyball shards' has shown promise for chemical separations, suggesting a cheaper method for generating enriched oxygen and nitrogen. The material could be useful for the biotechnology industry to concentrate proteins in watery broths.