Researchers from UH and Rice University collaborated to engineer a synthetic gene circuit that compensates for temperature changes. The team used mathematical modeling to design the plasmid and created a genetic clock with a stable period across various temperatures.
Researchers are studying ways to selectively use high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete in buildings, exploring its potential to improve strength without increasing costs. The approach focuses on using advanced materials only at vulnerable joints, such as beam-column connections, to enhance structural resilience.
A team of researchers has won a $779,000 grant to develop a new way to rehabilitate deteriorating reinforced concrete structures using shape memory alloys. The approach aims to confine the structure all the time, preventing damage and improving strength.
Matthew Burton, a University of Houston industrial design student, has developed an adapter system called 'Connect' that makes inserting and removing plugs easier for people with disabilities. The system recently earned first place in the International Housewares Association's 2014 Student Design Competition.
Researchers at the University of Houston are developing a low-cost GPS-based system to provide real-time alerts to pipeline owners and excavator operators when digging near pipelines. The system, supported by a $700,000 grant, aims to reduce accidents caused by excavation damage.
A study by University of Houston researchers found that Google Flu Trend overestimated flu cases in the US by up to 50% and failed to accurately predict levels in previous seasons. The researchers suggest combining big data with traditional methodologies for a more accurate understanding of human behavior.
University of Houston researchers create a system to diagnose diseases in real time using smartphones and $20 lens attachments. The device uses gold nanoholes to detect chemical interactions between disease-causing agents and antibodies, providing quick and affordable readouts.
Margaret Cheung, a UH physicist, has been awarded the American Physical Society fellowship for her work on biophysics and its applications to cancer and Alzheimer's research. Her research focuses on understanding protein behavior in cells to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
University of Houston scientists identify AMPK enzyme's role in prostate cancer progression and metabolic changes. Their findings suggest that targeting metabolic pathways could lead to more effective cancer treatments.
Researchers investigate the impact of Saharan dust on ground-level pollution in Houston, with a focus on regulatory limits and measurable air quality. They plan to use samples collected in Barbados and Houston to confirm previous findings.
A University of Houston researcher is working on developing plant-based plastics that can match the strength, flexibility, and durability of petroleum-based polymers. The goal is to create biodegradable materials with better mechanical properties and a reduced environmental impact.
Researchers at the University of Houston and Universite de Montréal have developed a new theoretical model that may improve the efficiency of solar cells. The model explores quantum-mechanical effects in polymeric semiconductors, which could lead to more efficient materials with blends of semiconducting polymers and fullerenes.
University of Houston researchers have developed a new stretchable and transparent electrical conductor that could bring bendable cell phones and foldable flat-screen TVs closer to reality. The gold nanomesh electrodes demonstrate good electrical conductivity, transparency, and flexibility, with potential applications for biomedical de...
A University of Houston study found that anonymous online comments are more likely to be vulgar, racist, or hateful than those posted by non-anonymous users. Non-anonymous commenters were nearly three times as likely to post civil comments following news articles, with only 15% of anonymous commenters exhibiting civil behavior.
University of Houston researchers aim to develop a method to convert methane, the main component of natural gas, into more valuable chemicals like methanol, ethane, or ethylene. The breakthrough could have significant economic and industrial value.
A study published in Oncogene found that androgens hijack the AMPK signaling cascade to increase prostate cancer cell growth. This metabolic switch has significant implications for understanding early and late-stage prostate cancer progression.
Scientists at the University of Houston are studying E. coli evolution to understand how bacteria adapt to changing conditions. By analyzing genetic changes over 7,000 generations, they aim to predict which bacterial strains will become resistant to antibiotics, ultimately leading to better vaccines and treatments.
Researchers from the University of Houston have discovered a catalyst that can quickly generate hydrogen from water using sunlight, producing twice as much hydrogen as oxygen. The technology has potential as a clean and renewable source of energy, but its efficiency rate is still too low to be commercially viable at present.
Four University of Houston researchers have been elected National Academy of Inventors Fellows for their groundbreaking work in cancer treatment and materials science. The new fellows include Rathindra Bose, Dmitri Litvinov, Zhifeng Ren, and Venkat Selvamanickam, who collectively hold over 5,600 US patents.
Zhifeng Ren, a University of Houston physicist, has been honored with the Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award in Science from The Academy of Medicine, Engineering & Science of Texas. He is recognized for his seminal contributions to carbon nanotubes, thermoelectrics, hierarchical zinc oxide nanowires, high temperature superconductivity, an...
Physicist Zhifeng Ren has been recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to five scientific fields: carbon nanotubes, thermoelectrics, hierarchical zinc oxide nanowires, high temperature superconductivity, and molecule delivery/sensing. His work on waste heat recovery and immunosuppressant medication detection has shown significa...
A University of Houston-led international expedition drilled into the lower crust of the Pacific Ocean, revealing new discoveries about the Earth's development. The team found substantial amounts of the mineral orthopyroxene in gabbros, challenging existing theories on the formation of the lower ocean crust.
A new project at the University of Houston aims to incorporate art into STEM education to increase the quality of STEM graduates. Jay Young's research focuses on how creativity can be used to solve problems in math and science, with findings suggesting that artistic endeavors are essential for better problem-solving skills.
Researchers at UH have discovered that a specific protein inhibits gamma lobe neurons, which are involved in forming memories. This finding has implications for treating dementia by understanding how memories form.
The University of Houston will be part of a new Ocean Energy Safety Institute that aims to provide reliable knowledge about critical safety issues. The institute will develop programs of research, technical assistance, and education to support ultra-deep exploration and production.
Guoquan Wang, a UH professor, has received an $168,000 NSF grant to develop GPS and LiDAR education at the university. The project includes creating an upper-level applications course and augmenting field methods courses with real-time GPS and seismic instruments.
Scientists at the University of Houston develop technology to etch silicon wafers with atomic precision, overcoming industry challenges and enabling the creation of radically smaller and more powerful integrated circuits. By controlling ion kinetic energy, they can selectively etch materials like silicon and silicon dioxide.
Researchers are developing a new class of molecules called peptoids that can alter zeolite growth, changing the shape of these crystals from cylinders to flat platelets. This improvement will significantly extend the lifetime of catalysts, enabling companies to carry out processes more efficiently and at lower costs.
Researchers will investigate the mechanism of estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) in colon cancer development, with a goal to develop novel prevention and therapy strategies. The study aims to clarify how estrogen influences colon cancer development using unique models and data.
A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research examines the relationship between proximity to tobacco retail outlets and smoking cessation. The research suggests that limiting access to tobacco products near residential areas may help smokers quit more effectively.
Researchers at the University of Houston will gain faster data upload and processing capabilities, enabling innovation in education and healthcare. The upgrade aims to facilitate the creation, sharing, and analysis of large datasets.
C-Voltaics, a University of Houston nanotech company, has won the $50,000 Goradia Innovation Prize for its commercially viable nano-coatings that protect various products from environmental hazards. The company's win is confirmation of market demand for its product, which was launched this fall in the Energy Research Park.
The UH Graduate College of Social Work program is recognized for its international contributions to social work education and programming. The program has been involved in various global initiatives, including the China Collaborative Project and certification training in Hong Kong.
Researchers will explore ways to use existing catalysts like platinum and palladium, altering ratios and thickness to optimize performance. The goal is to develop catalytic converters that can treat lower-temperature exhaust gas and meet environmental regulations.
A University of Houston researcher has won a $330,000 NSF grant to develop signal-processing techniques that interpret electrical activity recorded by deep brain stimulation probes. This technology aims to provide real-time feedback to neurosurgeons, allowing them to guide probe placement and perform surgeries faster and more accurately.
Claudine Giacchetti, UH professor of French, is being recognized for her efforts in promoting the French language and culture. She has expanded traditional programs to include francophone studies and business classes.
A month-long study by University of Houston aims to enhance air quality forecasting using satellite data and numerical models. The team collected extensive data from mobile labs, aircraft, and satellites to develop more accurate pollution sensors.
A $451,000 US grant will fund research on the Chaman Fault in Western Pakistan to improve earthquake prediction and mitigation. The study aims to determine fault movement speed and activity levels to reduce casualties and economic losses.
The University of Houston has received a $4 million grant from the Welch Foundation to establish a Center of Excellence in Polymer Chemistry. This will support fundamental chemistry research and collaboration with petrochemical companies to develop new polymer products and technologies.
C-Voltaics, a University of Houston start-up, won the Young Technology Award for its nanotechnology-based coatings that protect various products from environmental hazards. The company's product has shown significant potential for investment returns and audience interest.
Researchers from the University of Houston have discovered the largest single volcano ever documented on Earth, dubbed Tamu Massif, covering an area roughly equivalent to the British Isles. The volcano, located off the coast of Japan, is nearly as large as Mars' Olympus Mons and features a unique shield-like shape.
Physicists at the University of Houston have discovered a non-toxic material that can convert waste heat from vehicle tailpipes, industrial smokestacks, and power plants into electricity. The new compound, tin telluride with indium, shows promise in boosting vehicle mileage by up to 5% and power plant efficiency by as much as 10%.
A new research study aims to identify key points for engaging young people in mental health treatment. The study will explore the factors that contribute to episodes of crisis care for young adults, with a focus on improving treatment engagement.
The University of Houston College of Pharmacy has received a national award for its work in providing essential health care services to Houston's homeless population. The clinic serves over 3,000 patients and will use the grant to expand its pharmacy supply.
The project aims to perfect a non-invasive brain-machine interface technology that allows patients to control robotic legs and neuroprosthetic limbs with their thoughts. Researchers have begun initial testing at UH, with broader clinical trials planned for Methodist Hospital.
A University of Houston professor is studying the impact of Saharan dust on Houston's air quality, finding that the dust can vary in toxicity and affect people with asthma. The team used scientific detective work to determine the 'fingerprint' of African dust, allowing them to differentiate it from other pollutants.
Undergraduate students at University of Houston are conducting research on Alzheimer's diagnostics, breast cancer treatment, and fruit fly courtship patterns. Their projects aim to develop new diagnostic methods and treatments, while exploring adaptations to environmental changes.
The University of Houston has received a $675,000 grant to investigate the effectiveness of transdiagnostic cognitive behavior therapy for smoking cessation among individuals with anxiety disorders. The study aims to reduce tobacco use and develop an effective smoking cessation treatment that targets people with anxiety disorders.
The University of Houston has selected two students, Antonia Caliboso and Jag Maturi, to lead health-related service initiatives for underserved communities through the Houston-Galveston Albert Schweitzer Fellowship Program. The programs aim to address social determinants of health and promote healthy lifestyles.
The University of Houston has received a $1 million endowment from ExxonMobil to train secondary science and math teachers through its teachHOUSTON program. The program provides teaching opportunities throughout four years at UH, producing well-suited STEM teachers.