NSF CAREER award advances work in fundamental physics
Claudia Ratti receives $475,000 NSF CAREER award to study quark-gluon plasma state and promote STEM education.
University of Houston
Researchers report breakthrough in magnesium batteries
Researchers have discovered a new design for magnesium batteries, increasing storage capacity to 400 mAh/g compared to earlier versions. The breakthrough involves inserting magnesium chloride into a titanium disulfide host, allowing for faster diffusion and higher energy density.
Researchers report better way to create organic bioelectronics
A new fabrication method allows for precise control over electrical performance of neural probes, improving drug delivery and communication with the nervous system. Conducting polymers mimic biological tissue, promoting efficient signal transduction and biocompatibility.
Use of brain-computer interface, virtual avatar could help people with gait disabilities
Researchers demonstrate non-invasive method to control gait using brain-computer interface and virtual walking avatar. The study, funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke, shows increased activity in brain areas involved in motor learning and error monitoring.
UH receives $3.3 million from state cancer research program
The University of Houston has received a $2 million grant to recruit cancer researcher Rohith Reddy, who will focus on next-generation technologies for detecting gynecological cancers. The institution also received a $1.3 million grant to expand tobacco cessation programs in substance abuse treatment centers.
Signs of distracted driving -- pounding heart, sweaty nose
The study examined three types of distracting elements: sensorimotor, cognitive, and emotional. Researchers found that texting led to more dangerous driving, while a 'sixth sense' protected drivers from emotional upset or absent-mindedness.
Research-focused UH biotech program to expand nationally
The UH biotech program will expand to five colleges and universities nationwide, implementing its innovative approach to integrating classroom instruction and research. The program aims to demonstrate its effectiveness across various higher education institutions and has the potential to address real-world issues such as environmental ...
Decoding a treasure trove of data from the brain
A team of researchers will use new methods to analyze and interpret neural data, developing theoretical models to understand the underlying mechanisms. The project aims to improve understanding of brain function, even when only a small fraction of cells are directly observed.
Biofeedback technology helping improve balance in Parkinson's patients
Researchers developed a smartphone-based biofeedback rehabilitation system to guide patients through balance exercises, showing noticeable improvements in postural stability and reducing the risk of falls. The custom wearable belt uses vibrating actuators to provide personalized guidance, mapped in real-time on a smartphone application.
Artificial light from digital devices lessens sleep quality
A new study by University of Houston College of Optometry researchers found that wearing blue-light blocking glasses before bed increased nighttime melatonin levels by 58% compared to non-blocking glasses. Participants reported improved sleep quality, faster falls asleep, and longer sleep durations.
UH researcher working to make security cameras 'smarter'
A University of Houston researcher is developing a system that would allow security cameras to recognize and send an alert at the first sign of a threat to public safety. The project uses video analytics to build mathematical models that reflect human behavior and predict deviations from the norm.
New limits to functional portion of human genome reported
A recent study published in Genome Biology and Evolution proposes that only 10-15% or up to 25% of the human genome is functional, with the remaining portion consisting of non-functional 'junk DNA'. This finding contradicts previous estimates suggesting 80% of the genome has a biochemical function.
Does a candidate's religion matter to voters?
A new analysis by University of Houston political scientists found that party labels, not religious affiliation, are the most powerful predictors of how voters perceive candidates. Party brand matters more than a candidate's religious views when it comes to shaping voter beliefs about ideology.
Inexpensive organic material gives safe batteries a longer life
Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered a new class of material that addresses many battery concerns, including fire risk, cold weather performance, and lifespan. The quinones-based anode is inexpensive, chemically stable, and allows batteries to work across temperature ranges.
UH geochemist searches for answers on the sea floor
Researchers are still unsure how organic compounds form in hydrothermal vents on the sea floor, a key area of study as it may hold clues to the origin of life. A new NSF-funded project aims to bridge this gap by simulating conditions and generating compounds from inorganic components.
Under cyber attack: UH researchers look at how to catch a 'phisher'
A study by University of Houston researchers used publicly available emails from Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin to analyze the characteristics of phishing emails. The results showed that participants had a 52% accuracy rate in detecting real emails, while more complex grammar fooled 74% of them.
Researchers report new, more efficient catalyst for water splitting
Physicists at the University of Houston have discovered a highly active and stable electrocatalyst produced from ferrous metaphosphate on a nickel foam platform, outperforming traditional catalysts in efficiency and affordability. The breakthrough could enable large-scale water splitting to produce hydrogen for clean energy.
Personality factors are best defense against losing your job to a robot
A study published in the European Journal of Personality found that individuals with higher intelligence, maturity, extraversion, and interests in arts and sciences are less likely to lose their jobs to robots. The research suggests traditional education may not be enough to prepare people for future job changes.
Engineering cells to make immunotherapy more effective
A UH-led team is developing engineered T cells that can survive within a tumor despite limited nutrients. This innovative approach aims to increase the effectiveness of immunotherapy for cancer patients.
UH researcher seeks better understanding of China's air pollution
Researchers will study Chinese haze events and their sources using oxygen-isotopic compositions of sulfate and nitrate aerosols. The findings will aid development of air quality mitigation strategies in China.
UH graduate mathematics student earns DOE research award
Kyle Williams, a UH doctoral student in applied mathematics, has been selected for the DOE's Graduate Student Research Program. He will work at Sandia National Lab to further his research on computational fluid dynamics and Navier-Stokes equations.
Building a better battery
A University of Houston graduate student has been awarded a NASA fellowship to identify new materials for next-generation batteries. He plans to use a combined computational and experimental approach to investigate solid-state electrolyte materials for lithium batteries.
NSF CAREER award targets advanced microscopy techniques
Mini Das, assistant professor of physics at UH, aims to develop fast, low-radiation, high-resolution X-ray microscopy to study tissues and materials without slicing or killing samples. Her project will test new detecting methods, algorithms, and instrumentation.
Academia, industry collaborate on solutions to neural disease, injury
The BRAIN Center will focus on developing and testing neurotechnologies for a wide range of diseases and injuries, with the potential to save $400 billion in future costs. Researchers from ASU and UH, along with industry partners, will work together to speed technologies to market.
UH receives USDA grant to fight obesity in nearby neighborhoods
The University of Houston has received a $281,475 grant from the USDA to launch the HOUSTON Academy, providing fellowships to undergraduate students to address obesity and nutrition concerns. The program will focus on community outreach, food demonstration workshops, and health fairs to promote healthy lifestyles.
New technology could end costly crude oil pipeline blockages
A prototype device has been developed to remove asphaltenes from crude oil, addressing costly pipeline blockages. The device uses electrokinetics to attract and remove the solidified molecules, improving flow rates and reducing pressure requirements.
UH Physicist launches new journal for materials science
A new academic journal, Materials Today Physics, launched by UH physicist Zhifeng Ren will focus on thermoelectric and photovoltaic materials. The journal aims to speed the dissemination of crucial information about materials from discovery to application.
Halting nearsightedness epidemic goal of UH vision scientist
Earl Smith's research seeks to determine how visual experience affects refractive development and explore new pharmaceutical approaches to eliminate myopia. The goal is to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children, addressing a growing global epidemic that affects over two billion people.
MRI-powered mini-robots could offer targeted treatment
Researchers are developing control algorithms and imaging technology to harness MRI power for millimeter-sized robots to navigate the body's venous system. The goal is to use large numbers of mini-robots to target specific lesions, delivering chemotherapy or interventions.
UH chemist honored for research, STEM education
Ding-Shyue Yang, a UH assistant professor of chemistry, has been awarded a $570,332 NSF CAREER grant to further his research on the movement of energy and charge across material interfaces. He aims to improve imaging tools for ultrafast molecular studies using new technologies and experimental methods.
Study suggests polling is still best predictor of election outcomes
A recent study published in Science found that polling data is a reliable predictor of election outcomes around the world. The research used global polling data to predict up to 90% of election outcomes, including 10 out of 11 elections in Latin America.
UH research finds evidence of 2 billion years of volcanic activity on Mars
A Martian meteorite provides clues to the evolution of Mars, with evidence suggesting that some of the longest-lived volcanoes in the solar system are located on the Red Planet. The research offers new insights into the history of volcanic activity on Mars and confirms at least 2 billion years of volcanic activity.
Researchers report new understanding of global warming
Researchers have discovered a new explanation for climate change using long-term variations of the Lorenz energy cycle, a complex formula describing atmospheric interaction. The study found that Earth's global atmosphere is increasing in efficiency as a heat engine, leading to more potential energy converted to kinetic energy and great...
National Endowment for the Humanities supports work at UH
The National Endowment for the Humanities has awarded grants to University of Houston faculty members Rex Koontz and Julie Tolliver. Koontz will oversee a collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston to expand its digital archive of Latin American art, while Tolliver will complete her book on Francophone independence literatures.
UH receives $66 million in-kind software grant from Siemens PLM Software
The University of Houston has received a $66 million in-kind software grant from Siemens PLM Software to support its Industrial Design program. This grant provides students with access to advanced technology used by global companies, enhancing their training and employability.
DOE project to evaluate safety of transporting used nuclear fuel
A University of Houston engineer leads a multi-institution effort to develop monitoring techniques for stable fuel transport during transit and accidents. Researchers will study structural issues, risk analysis, and new sensing techniques to ensure spent nuclear fuel can be safely moved from temporary storage to permanent disposal sites.
UH team wins $50,000 to learn how to start innovative food safety business
A University of Houston team has developed a behavior-based educational toolkit system to improve safe food handling practices for restaurant and grocery store employees. The augmented reality technology streamlines food cleanliness practices for smaller operations, with the goal of enhancing food safety behavior.
DOE funds advanced manufacturing of superconductor wire for next generation machines
The University of Houston researcher will use the grant to reduce cost and increase performance of superconductor wire production, leading to significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The project aims to develop technologies that can significantly improve industrial motors, helping companies save energy and money...
Researchers report new thermoelectric material with high power factors
Scientists have created a new thermoelectric material that can convert waste heat into electricity at an unusually high rate, producing 22 watts per square centimeter. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient energy conservation and reduced CO2 emissions by harnessing abundant and free fuel sources.
Researchers discover new material to improve de-icing
A new material, MAGSS, can be applied to any surface to repel ice, outperforming existing technology in extreme environments. It has a lower freezing threshold than current technology, potentially improving safety in aviation and energy infrastructure.
People power: Technology allows smartphone-based water testing
Researchers at the University of Houston developed a smartphone-based water testing system using DotLens technology. The system uses commercially available test kits with a low-cost attachment that provides a narrow-band light source, allowing users to identify waterborne pathogens such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum.
Physicists induce superconductivity in non-superconducting materials
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a novel method to induce superconductivity in calcium iron arsenide, a non-superconducting compound. This breakthrough demonstrates a concept proposed decades ago and offers a new direction for finding more efficient and less expensive superconductors.
UH receives $1.45 million boost to prepare STEM teachers
The University of Houston is using a $1.45 million National Science Foundation grant to bolster its teachHOUSTON math and science teacher preparation program. The new program will offer scholarships, professional development, and mentoring to support future teachers in the STEM fields.
Competing attitudes about the homeless complicate public policy
Research shows that policies targeting the homeless, such as banning lying down in public, have significant support from the public. However, the same people also want government to spend a lot on helping the homeless, indicating a disconnect between attitudes and policy goals. Disgust plays a key role in this disconnect, with many peo...
Networking can cut 2 ways for employers, employees
Research found that internal networking behaviors promote job satisfaction and reduced turnover, while external networking increases the likelihood of leaving a company. Employers can increase opportunities for internal networking to retain talent, balancing work-life interaction.
Restoring sand dunes, one microbe at a time
Ecologist Kerri Crawford studies the impact of microbial communities on plant growth in restored sand dunes. Her research aims to develop strategies for promoting plant diversity and stability in these ecosystems.
Researchers report invention of glucose-sensing contact lens
Scientists have developed a glucose-sensing contact lens that utilizes surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy to detect glucose levels in tears. The device, built from multiple layers of gold nanowires, enhances the sensing properties by creating hot spots within the nanostructure.
Researchers discover more efficient way to split water, produce hydrogen
A team of researchers from the University of Houston has reported a more efficient catalyst for producing hydrogen gas by splitting water. The new hybrid catalyst requires significantly less energy than existing methods, making it a promising alternative to traditional platinum-based catalysts.
Startup earns commercialization grant for new technology
GuidaBot is developing a robotic system that enables doctors to perform biopsies while the patient remains within an MRI machine, allowing for faster and more precise procedures. The company has received a $225,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support ongoing research and testing of prototype systems.
Researchers report advance in low-cost clean energy generation
A new low-cost, nontoxic way to generate power has been demonstrated by combining concentrating solar power with segmented thermoelectric legs. The technology achieved an efficiency of 7.4% and is expected to be useful for isolated areas or small clusters of homes/businesses.