Researchers found that human activities drive disease distributions at local scales for diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease, while climate change impacts regional scales. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple spatial scales to understand human ecological impacts on biodiversity and disease emergence.
Researchers have developed a new method for detecting and diagnosing preclinical Alzheimer's disease using PET imaging with PiB, which binds to amyloid plaques in the brain. The study found that PiB retention was prominent in cortical areas of the brain, consistent with post-mortem studies of Aβ plaques.
Recent advancements in neuroimaging technology have led to better understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. These innovations enable clinicians to detect preclinical stages of AD through PET imaging, and also provide new therapeutic interventions.
Researchers from USF have isolated a natural product chemical from an Antarctic sponge that can eliminate over 98% of MRSA cells. The extract, named darwinolide, has shown promise in treating biofilm-based infections, which are resistant to current antibiotics.
A USF professor is investigating the possibility that CTE can start when an on-field collision generates a 'seed' that spreads protein abnormality in the brain. Similar processes may be at work for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
A new study by researchers from the University of South Florida found that certain types of training can improve driving skills in older adults. The training, known as SPT, improved mental quickness and attention, leading to increased driving frequency among participants.
University of South Florida researchers discovered a determining factor in red tide occurrences: coastal ocean circulation on the West Florida Continental Shelf. The Gulf of Mexico Loop Current's position determines the likelihood and severity of red tides.
Researchers are focusing on the key hormone 'aldosterone' and developing unique sounds to treat age-related hearing loss (ARHL). Studies will investigate its effects on mice and humans, with goals of slowing or preventing ARHL progression through hormonal intervention and brain training.
The NAI Conference featured presentations on the importance of invention in academic institutions and its impact on everyday life. The Special Section includes articles on the discovery of Lyrica and the commercialization process, while a new T&I feature profiles Nobel Laureate Steven Chu.
The APLU task force suggests that universities consider the value of technology transfer activities in tenure and promotion decisions, with a focus on merit-based recognition rather than requirement. The task force recommends flexibility in evaluating technology transfer work, weighing impact, quality, and societal benefit.
A recent issue of Technology & Innovation explores old issues in health-related environmental research and new trends. Researchers found significant asbestos exposure risks from motorcycle riding on contaminated soils, while studies on organic vs conventional foods concluded there's no scientific basis for a preference.
A new study finds that the influx of freshwater from Greenland is 'freshening' the North Atlantic Ocean and could disrupt the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), an important component of global ocean circulation. This could lead to changes in climate, including cooler winters and regional sea level increases.
Researchers found schreibersite, an iron-nickel phosphide mineral, could provide phosphate essential for prebiotic molecules. The mineral's phosphorylation reaction with early Earth water likely played a role in the emergence of metabolic molecules.
Researchers found that these animals move forward by sucking water towards them using low pressure, rather than pushing against it. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of evolutionary adaptation, functional ecology, and bio-inspired design.
Researchers from USF propose a new form of computing that leverages interaction-dependent state change of nanomagnets to solve complex functions significantly faster than traditional computers. The approach has been shown to be 1,528 times faster than IBM ILOG CPLEX on certain problems.
USF researchers received over $1.2 million in federal grants from NOAA to develop new technologies for predicting and identifying red tide. The research aims to improve forecasting capabilities, mitigate the effects of harmful algal blooms, and protect public health and marine life in the Gulf of Mexico.
The current issue of Technology and Innovation highlights the challenges of ensuring water security due to growing concerns over fresh water availability. Advances in analytical techniques, nanobiotechnologies, and monitoring methods are being explored to develop innovative solutions for water conservation and quality improvement.
A recent study found that Florida homeowners waste a significant amount of fresh water on their lawns, with some using as much as 64% or more. The main barriers to conservation are a lack of knowledge and pressure from Home Owner's Associations (HOAs) to maintain perfect lawns.
The University of South Florida has been named an I-Corps Site by the National Science Foundation, receiving nearly $300,000 to build and mentor teams of USF faculty and students to become successful entrepreneurs. The goal is to launch multiple successful start-up companies over the next three years.
The National Academy of Inventors has published a special issue of Technology and Innovation featuring presentations from the Third Annual Conference, including topics such as pharmacy and nanotechnology. The conference attracted 250 inventors and featured presentations by distinguished scientists and innovators.
The Patents for Humanity Awards recognize innovators developing life-changing technologies, such as a malaria-resistant drug, an electric-free fracture treatment, and solar-powered light bulbs. The awards aim to bring modern technology to the world's most underserved populations.
Academic technology transfer has a transformative impact on universities, fostering entrepreneurship, student success and real-world research participation. It also generates public benefits, economic development and increased funding opportunities.
This special issue of Technology and Innovation explores the benefits of tech transfer to universities and its impact on rural regions. Key findings include the use of information technology in rural health care organizations and precision agriculture in the Northern Great Plains, which improves crop management and reduces waste.
The paper argues that universities should value faculty patents and commercialization activities equally in decisions related to tenure and academic advancement. The authors suggest that encouraging innovation and supporting bright young faculty can lead to a culture change that recognizes the value of these activities.
A USF study found that compromised blood-brain barrier integrity in cerebral areas distant from initial ischemic insult can lead to chronic post-stroke deficits. Restoring endothelial and/or astrocytic integrity towards BBB repair is proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy.
Researchers at USF Health have found that a combination of human umbilical cord blood cells and granulocyte colony stimulating factor significantly reduced TBI-induced loss of neuronal cells in the hippocampus. The therapy also showed beneficial results in animals with experimental TBI, with G-CSF alone producing short-lived benefits.
Researchers have developed advanced prosthetic and orthotic devices that allow users to participate in a wider range of daily activities, exercise, and sports. The new technologies include adjustable ankle units for sub-freezing temperatures and multifunction prostheses for adventure-type activities.
The conference showcased innovations in areas such as Vitamin D analogues, camera technology, and wireless communication. Researchers discussed commercialization strategies, patent development, and the application of technology to healthcare and education.
The cost of university research is rising due to a significant funding gap, making it difficult for institutions to maintain aggressive research agendas. The authors propose exploring external revenue sources and administrative financial support to address this issue.
An innovative device evaluates spinal movement, reducing X-ray testing and potential healthcare costs. The electrogoniometer measures three-dimensional spinal movement, allowing for earlier patient recovery and cost savings.
A human clinical study has demonstrated that participants taking Natura Therapeutics' NutraStem Cardio showed a significant increase in cognition compared to age-matched individuals taking a placebo. The results improved decision-making speed across a two-month test period.
Researchers used GIS to better understand relationships between populations and resources in Alaska, Texas, and Nepal. GIS identified spatial patterns and barriers to healthy food access in rural areas.
Brain training programs, such as MyBrainSolutions, improve measured scores in anxiety, stress, and depression. The BRAINnet Foundation uses standardized protocols to pool data across mental disorders, sites, and studies, aiming to understand mental illness as a brain disease.
This special issue of Technology and Innovation explores transformative health care technologies, reducing costs and improving outcomes. Researchers have developed automated educational interventions to analyze prescription data, creating health outcomes indices to measure patient outcomes over time.
The National Academy of Inventors inaugural conference showcased innovations in job creation through entrepreneurship and global patent harmonization. The conference featured presentations on efforts to harmonize patent offices worldwide, emphasizing the need for standardized methods of measuring patent quality.
A study by USF and VA researchers found that traumatic brain injury leads to progressive brain deterioration, causing elevated inflammation and suppressed cell regeneration. Therapeutic intervention can still help prevent cell death in the chronic stage of TBI.
Fifteen University of South Florida faculty were named AAAS Fellows this year, recognized for their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts. The university was among the top ten organizations worldwide with the most AAAS Fellows, alongside universities such as Michigan and California-Davis.
Researchers unveil creative technologies to capture kinetic energy in Florida's oceans, convert waste thermal energy to electricity, and develop nanophosphor-based grow lights. These innovations could change our sources of energy and improve indoor agriculture.
The University of South Florida has been awarded a $1 million grant by the U.S. Commerce Department to support new web and mobile app ventures, aiming to create hundreds of high-wage jobs in the region. The grant will also help at least 50 Florida-based startup companies secure early-stage funding.
The USPTO has implemented the America Invents Act, a significant reform of US patent law, allowing for public input and feedback throughout the rulemaking process. The act introduces a new framework for patents, with a focus on balance and collaboration between the agency and various stakeholders.
Researchers study Bolivian and Paraguayan families' medical travel experiences seeking pediatric oncology care in Argentina. Medical travel can be a strategy for economically challenged patients to save their lives, but it also carries challenges like relocation uncertainty.
The National Academy of Inventors congratulates 11 top universities for their 2011 patent success, including the University of South Florida. The list includes American universities and Chinese institutions, with the University of California System holding the most patents awarded.