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University of Delaware


For energy experts, new method is a gas

Researchers have created a novel non-invasive method to quantify untapped natural gas reservoirs by analyzing the compositional distribution on porous surfaces inside shale rocks. This method provides both average and deviation values of material properties, aiding decision-making in the industry.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2018

Catching up to brain cancer

Researchers create a computer program that predicts glioblastoma tumor growth with high accuracy, focusing on the role of L1CAM in accelerating cell spread. The model offers new opportunities for researchers to simulate various scenarios and test potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 15, 2018

Using technology to detect hidden threats

A team of researchers at the University of Delaware is developing an augmented reality system that can spot explosive hazards precisely and from a safe distance. The technology uses traditional cameras, thermal infrared sensing, and ground penetrating radar to detect IEDs up to 30 meters away.

Starving liver cancer

Researchers discover a two-step process to kill liver cancer cells by silencing an enzyme and adding metformin, potentially accelerating new treatments for this deadly disease. This approach has shown promise in treating liver cancer, where surgery is often not an option and available drugs are only moderately effective.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2018

Matchmaking for cancer care

A team of computer scientists has developed a new system to rapidly determine which cancer drugs are likely to work best given a patient's genetic markers. eGARD, the first publicly available system of its kind, can match genetic signatures with outcomes with 95 percent precision.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 6, 2018

Coastal water absorbing more carbon dioxide

Research by University of Delaware oceanographer Wei-Jun Cai and colleagues reveals that coastal water is taking up a larger portion of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The study's findings, published in Nature Communications, may have important implications for understanding the global carbon budget and predicting greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

City lights setting traps for migrating birds

Researchers found that city lights in metropolitan areas like Boston, New York, and Philadelphia attract large densities of migratory birds, even from far away. This can lead to increased mortality risks from collisions with buildings, vehicles, and predators like domestic cats, as well as resource depletion.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 19, 2018

Sandy claws

Research by University of Delaware scientist Danielle Dixson and her team found that decorator crabs primarily decorate their arms and legs first, which helps them hide from predators. The study also showed that habitat presence affects decorating patterns, with crabs decorating faster in the absence of a shelter.

Communicating at the speed of light

Tingyi Gu, an assistant professor at the University of Delaware, has received a $450,000 grant from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research to develop high-speed and low-power optical interconnects. Her research aims to improve the performance and scalability of devices made with two-dimensional materials.

Reducing phosphorus runoff

A recent study published in the Journal of Soil and Water Conservation found that farmers prefer cash payments with insurance or tax credits over certifications, but may require more money for these incentives. Researchers met with 49 farmers in northwest Ohio to test different incentives and gather insights on best management practices.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateNov 22, 2017

Research aims to help renewable jet fuel take flight

University of Delaware researchers have developed catalysts that transform lignocellulosic biomass into high-carbon molecules suitable for jet fuel, enabling cost-competitive and sustainable production. The process operates at low temperature and is scalable, addressing the need for non-petroleum-based fuels for aviation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalChemSusChem·DateOct 30, 2017

Examining the lifestyles of microbes

University of Delaware researchers studied microbes from James Cameron's Deepsea Challenge Expedition, revealing a new branch on the microbial family tree. The Parcubacteria were found to have a simple metabolism but with extra features, indicating they may be able to perform anaerobic respiration and adapt to cold environments.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateSep 27, 2017

A sweeter way to make green products

University of Delaware researchers develop a one-step technology to extract sugars from wood chips and other organic waste, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and high processing costs. The innovative method results in a 95% theoretical yield of sugars and enables the economical production of feed streams for bioproducts.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalChemSusChem·DateSep 8, 2017

More durable, less expensive fuel cells

The University of Delaware team developed a new technology that can make fuel cells cheaper and more durable. They created a catalyst of tungsten carbide nanoparticles, which improves water management and reduces the burden on the humidification system in fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

Acid zone in Chesapeake Bay identified

A 'pH minimum zone' of acidic water has been discovered at depths of 10-15 meters in the Chesapeake Bay. This increase in acidity is attributed to toxic hydrogen sulfide and ammonia produced when bottom waters mix upward, threatening shellfish like oysters and clams.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2017

Digging in the dirt

University of Delaware researchers have developed new methods to evaluate the risk of subsurface phosphorus losses in US croplands, particularly in flat and artificially drained areas. The study uses soil data to improve existing phosphorus index models and provides a more accurate assessment of subsurface phosphorus risks.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 17, 2017

Adding silicon to soil to strengthen plant defenses

Researchers found that high levels of silicon concentrations decrease insect growth and root consumption by up to 71%. Silicon helps plants build phytoliths, making them less digestible to insects, and triggering an immune system response. This natural defense mechanism could provide a sustainable solution for crop protection.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateAug 15, 2017

Magic helps unmask how the brain works

Researchers at the University of Delaware used a new mirror box illusion to study how the brain processes multiple sensory inputs. The study found that the brain uses biomechanical constraints from the body schema to resolve conflicts between senses, with vision typically ruling but also considering additional information.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2017

Engineering on a blue streak

University of Delaware researchers have developed a novel method for creating interpenetrating polymeric networks using blue light, offering a more efficient and sustainable approach. This one-step process enables the formation of complex shapes without solvents or additives, resulting in enhanced toughness and reduced brittleness.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPolymer Chemistry·DateJul 28, 2017

Grant supports deep dive into microbes

The University of Delaware research team, led by Jennifer Biddle, will investigate how environmental factors affect gene expression in microbes. They aim to develop a new method for detecting epigenetic signals, which could have wide-ranging impact on human health and renewable energy.

Small scale, big improvements

Researchers developed a new method to study chemical reactions at atomic scale, allowing for real-time observations of the solid-liquid interface. This technique helps improve water purification methods and understand supercapacitor performance.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2017

Labeling a bacterial cell 'jacket'

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to label and visualize the sugar backbone of bacterial cell walls, also known as the 'cell jacket'. This breakthrough allows scientists to better understand how the immune system misidentifies beneficial bacteria, leading to chronic inflammatory diseases. By using th...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

Plants call 911 to help their neighbors

Researchers at the University of Delaware discovered that plants release airborne chemicals when injured, alerting neighboring plants to boost their defenses. The injured plant sends signals through volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which stimulate nearby plants to grow more robust roots and increase malate transporter genes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 16, 2017

Research reveals globe-trotting history of sika deer

A new study by University of Delaware researchers explores the history of sika deer in Dorchester County, Maryland, revealing a complex relationship with native white-tailed deer. The study suggests that sika deer may be outcompeting white-tails for resources, causing ecological concerns and challenging management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiological Invasions·DateMay 9, 2017

Bullying's lasting impact

A new study led by the University of Delaware found that kids who are bullied in fifth grade often suffer from depression and begin using alcohol and other substances a few years after the incidents. The study also shows that peer victimization has lasting effects on substance use five years later.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 8, 2017

Robots may bring reef relief

A study has mapped nearly two square kilometers of seafloor around the leeward side of Bonaire, revealing new details about mesophotic reefs. The data can help local conservation efforts by identifying areas worthy of further investigation and providing insights into reef dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMay 3, 2017

Methane emissions from trees

Researchers from the University of Delaware found that tree trunks in upland forests emit methane, while soils and coarse woody debris act as methane sinks. The study used state-of-the-art technology to measure fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide, revealing a previously unaccounted source of this potent greenhouse gas.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEcosystems·DateMar 30, 2017

Team highlights work on tuning block polymers for nanostructured systems

The Epps group has made significant strides in tuning and characterizing block polymers for various applications. They aim to optimize materials design by manipulating phase behavior, thermal transitions and mechanical properties. The goal is to create high-performance materials that reduce defects and mitigate environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 29, 2017

Making bones stronger

A mathematical model shows that injections of peptide CK2.3 can increase bone formation and decrease bone degradation, potentially treating osteoporosis. The researchers used a combination of biological and mathematical models to calculate ideal dosages for humans and mice, aiming to develop a promising remedy for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCPT Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology·DateMar 29, 2017

Healthy weight gain in infants

Research by Jillian Trabulsi and Julie Mennella investigates the effects of infant formula on infant weight gain. The study found that babies fed cow's milk formula gained weight faster than those fed hydrolyzed protein formula or breastfed, highlighting the importance of choosing a suitable formula for infants.

Unforeseen impacts of the fair trade movement

Research by Lindsay Naylor reveals fair trade certification has both positive and negative effects on coffee producers in Mexico. The program has assisted families but also limited their mobility, with many farmers making only $500-1,000 annually. Additionally, the power of coffee production is often used as a political weapon.