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University of Delaware


Moving munitions

UD researchers study how unexploded munitions move in muddy estuaries, discovering they don't move horizontally despite intense storms. The team used fabricated munition surrogates with sensors to track movement, finding smaller munitions were buried or stuck in scour pits.

Light wakes up freshwater bacteria

Researchers discovered that freshwater bacteria grow faster in daylight and use blue light absorption mechanisms to regulate growth. The study suggests that these bacteria have special genes that allow them to sense light and adjust their metabolism accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateFeb 27, 2019

The secret life of batteries

Researchers are working on developing faster-charging batteries for electric vehicles by understanding how lithium ions distribute within the electrode. They used X-rays to create a micron-scale movie of lithium distribution, revealing inhomogeneous movement similar to people spreading out in a room.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 18, 2019

Keeping things moving

A team of researchers has developed a strategy to produce renewable lubricant base oils from non-food biomass and fatty acids, offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional lubricants. The new method uses catalysis to synthesize the base-oils with tunable properties, making them suitable for a wide r...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 2019

Anemones are friends to fish

A study by University of Delaware researchers reveals that larger-bodied fish, like juveniles, associate with anemones for protection, while smaller species partner with them throughout their lives. This mutualistic relationship is driven by predation and helps fish avoid predators in ocean reefs.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 29, 2019

Advancing environmental research

The new grant will support activities at four partner institutions, including the University of Delaware, to build up the state's research expertise and workforce for future jobs. The project aims to improve water quality, focusing on salinization and its effects on drinking water and freshwater habitats.

A new way to use CRISPR

A team of UD engineers has developed a method to use CRISPR/Cas9 technology for conditional gene regulation, introducing a new functionality to the technology. This allows scientists to precisely target and edit DNA within living cells, which could help correct inherited diseases.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 18, 2018

A device that illuminates the invisible

Engineers at the University of Delaware have developed a camera-like device that generates and detects millimeter waves to 'see' through solid objects. The device can detect concealed objects and see through non-metallic objects, making it useful for military operations and improved security in various settings.

Breakthrough in blood vessel engineering

A team at the University of Delaware has pioneered methods to grow a self-assembling, functional network of blood vessels. The system works across centimeter scales, necessary for functional tissue replacement, and could someday be utilized for tissue and organ transplantation into humans.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 5, 2018

Gene therapy for blood disorders

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a novel approach to gene therapy using microparticles that deliver gene-regulating material to hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. This technology could potentially treat inherited blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia by altering the genetic defect in t...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2018

Discovering a new compound

A team of scientists has uncovered a new compound produced by the bacterium Chlorobaculum tepidum, which is found in volcanic hot springs. The discovery reveals that the microbe modifies a previously unknown thiol to produce a compound called N-methyl-bacillithiol, which plays a crucial role in the sulfur cycle. This finding has signif...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalmBio·DateNov 29, 2018

Faster-charging, safer batteries

Scientists at UD aim to improve battery performance by introducing tapers into polymer membrane electrolytes, increasing conductivity and processing speed. The goal is to create more impact-resistant and safer batteries for devices like cell phones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

Ocean warming

Researchers at the University of Delaware have found a previously unknown pathway for heat to travel from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean, bypassing the Indonesian Throughflow. This discovery has significant implications for climate change research and could inform scientists about global warming.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateNov 19, 2018

Cosmic fireworks

Astronomers have discovered a rare gamma-ray binary system, allowing for the study of particle acceleration in a unique environment. The system, consisting of a massive star and a rapidly rotating neutron star, was detected emitting high-energy particles accelerated by its strong magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 15, 2018

Blocking 'secondary cataracts'

Researchers are exploring ways to prevent secondary cataracts, a condition that occurs when scar tissue forms in the eye after surgery. Melinda Duncan's team has made several discoveries, including molecules critical for forming PCO scar tissue, and is working on a drug to block this potentially blinding condition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 13, 2018

From lotion to ocean liner

Researchers at RiKarbon create a bio-based oil from plant scraps and natural oils to replace petroleum-based products in cosmetics, lubricants, and renewable energy. This eco-friendly oil reduces carbon footprint and minimizes pressure on petroleum resources, offering a sustainable solution for industries.

Biodiversity for the birds

A recent study by University of Delaware researchers found that residential yards dominated by non-native plants have fewer arthropods, leading to a decline in bird populations. The research suggests that prioritizing native plant species can support biodiversity and sustain wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 23, 2018

Wind farms and reducing hurricane precipitation

A recent study published in Environmental Research Letters found that large-scale offshore wind farms can decrease hurricane precipitation onshore locations, while increasing it in offshore areas. The research used Hurricane Harvey as an example, showing a 30% reduction in precipitation inland due to the presence of wind farms.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2018

Young innovators

Day's research develops layer-by-layer assembled nanoshells to deliver tumor suppressor miR-34a into cells, reducing cancer cell growth. Gleghorn discovers TRPV4 regulates airway development in fetal lungs, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCellular and Molecular Bioengineering·DateOct 15, 2018

'Fudge factors' in physics?

Researchers find that widely-used correction methods are based on a faulty assumption, potentially leading to inaccurate predictions. The team proposes new universal method for prediction that works for the right reasons.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 11, 2018

Quantum momentum

The University of Delaware is leading the charge in quantum technology research with a $1 million NSF grant. The team aims to develop quantum electronics that can process information faster and with greater accuracy, enabling next-generation technologies for communication, computing, and sensing.

Wind holds key to climate change turnaround

Scientists have discovered that westerly winds strengthen ocean acidification in Southern Ocean, which is critical for predicting its impact on marine life. The study sheds light on the mechanisms driving this process and provides insights into improving prediction models.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 9, 2018

Big discoveries about tiny particles

Researchers have discovered that polymer nanoparticles exhibit distinct characteristics compared to larger particles of the same material, including surface mobility and elastic modulus. The findings could improve the performance of materials used in various applications, such as filter membranes and sound wave propagation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2018

A big spark for energy research

The University of Delaware has secured a four-year funding renewal from the U.S. Department of Energy for its Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation, advancing processes for converting biomass into chemicals and fuels. The center has contributed to over 340 publications and trained more than 350 students in sustainable technologies.

Could bacteria fuel the future?

Researchers at the University of Delaware will study clostridium bacteria for biofuel production, aiming to create sustainable energy from renewable resources. The project seeks to demonstrate that using multiple complementary microorganisms can improve process yields and create valuable chemicals.

New details of HIV life cycle

A multi-institutional team has revealed new details about the HIV virus capsid structure and its role in the life cycle. Researchers found that a naturally occurring small molecule called IP6 plays an important part in both immature and mature phases of the HIV life cycle, making it a potential target for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2018

Food security under changing climate

A team of researchers has developed a new approach to improve crop resilience under changing climate conditions, using advanced imaging techniques and bioinformatics. The project aims to understand the molecular basis of pollen development and male fertility in key crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.

Fuels without fossils

Researchers at UD are developing a solar-driven carbon dioxide utilization technology to produce chemicals and fuels without using fossil sources. The system aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing carbon-neutral solar electricity.

What do ducks hear?

Researchers are testing pinger systems to deter diving ducks from gill nets, a major threat to sea bird populations. The study aims to determine the optimal frequency for these devices, which could save hundreds of thousands of birds annually.

Transforming carbon dioxide

Researchers at the University of Delaware's Center for Catalytic Science and Technology have developed a novel two-step process to convert carbon dioxide into smaller molecules, increasing efficiency and producing ethylene and ethanol. The technology has the potential to drive chemical processes more affordably and environmentally-frie...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Catalysis·DateSep 25, 2018

Novel sensors could enable smarter textiles

Researchers at the University of Delaware developed flexible carbon nanotube composite coatings on various fibers, enabling the measurement of a wide range of pressure. The technology has potential applications in smart garments, sports medicine, post-surgical recovery, and assessing movement disorders in pediatric populations.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 16, 2018

Play-Doh helps plant research

Researchers at the University of Delaware discovered that plants emit scent cues when under attack by insects, recruiting birds to provide a food source while defending crops. The study used Play-Doh larvae and dispensers to replicate plant volatiles, finding that birds were attracted to these cues more strongly than to a control measure.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateAug 15, 2018

Deep data dive helps predict cerebral palsy

A recent study published in BMC Bioinformatics has found that DNA methylation patterns in circulating blood cells can help identify children with spastic cerebral palsy. The researchers used next-generation sequencing data to analyze these patterns and identified distinct markers that distinguish children with CP from those without it.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBMC Bioinformatics·DateJun 21, 2018

Fungi in fashion

Researchers at the University of Delaware created a biodegradable shoe using mushrooms, chicken feathers, and textile waste. The shoe's sole is made from a bio-composite material that can be composted, reducing waste in the fashion industry.

New weapon in fight against dementia

A University of Delaware researcher is studying a naturally occurring dietary supplement, nicotinamide riboside (NR), to boost nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels and potentially treat age-related cardiovascular dysfunction. The study aims to improve physiological function in humans by reversing age-related declines in NAD+.

Programming DNA to deliver cancer drugs

A research team at the University of Delaware has developed technology to program strands of DNA into switches that turn proteins on and off. The technology could lead to the development of new cancer therapies and other drugs by activating non-toxic cancer prodrugs into their therapeutic forms.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 19, 2018

Bullying based on stigma has especially damaging effects

A recent study by University of Delaware professors found that while interventions for stigma-based bullying have increased, their implementation and evaluation need improvement. The researchers suggest increasing the capacity of school health professionals to address LGBTQ bullying and developing strategies to reduce stereotypes and p...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalDevelopmental Review·DateMar 8, 2018

Smart glass made better, and cheaper

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new type of smart glass that is more transparent in its transparent state and more reflective in its reflective state. The panels, made from two sheets of plastic separated by a thin cavity, can switch between allowing light in and blocking it out with just the press of a button.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 7, 2018