Articles tagged with Bioengineering
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new modular soft robotic arm enables deep-sea researchers to interact with delicate sea life without damaging them. The system features a glove-controlled arm that can flex and move with unprecedented dexterity, allowing scientists to explore understudied ocean environments.
Limpets exhibit surprising sensory and self-healing abilities, detecting minor damage to their shells and remodelling them for strength. They actively repair structural weaknesses, restoring mechanical strength within a month.
Researchers create a digital microfluidics platform using soundwaves and oil to avoid contamination for reusable lab-on-a-chip devices. The technology enables programmable, rewritable biomedical chips with exponentially increased combinations of reagent inputs.
Researchers at Harvard University's Wyss Institute develop a novel, folding polyhedron sampler that safely traps soft-bodied sea creatures like jellyfish and squid. The RAD sampler uses a simple, modular design to capture organisms in their natural habitats without harm.
HAMR can walk on land, swim on the surface of water, and walk underwater for as long as necessary, opening up new environments for exploration. The robot uses electrowetting to break the water surface and can paddle its legs at a frequency of up to 10 Hz.
Researchers at Harvard have developed an oral delivery method that can effectively deliver insulin to the bloodstream, overcoming the major obstacles of protein degradation and absorption. The innovative formulation uses an ionic liquid comprised of choline and geranic acid, which is released in a controlled manner once ingested.
Researchers have identified a safer way to make rugby tackles by reducing the impact on the head. The recommended techniques include tackling at the lower trunk and avoiding high-impact tackles to the upper trunk. These strategies aim to minimize the risk of concussions and other head injuries.
Donovan Argueta, a UC Riverside graduate student, has won a $25,000 Ford Foundation fellowship to continue his research on the biological mechanisms driving increased eating behaviors in obesity. The one-year fellowship will allow him to complete his doctoral degree and pursue a postdoctoral position.
A study by the University of Illinois found that using the right blade is crucial for maximizing sugarcane harvesting. The researchers discovered that an angled blade caused the greatest damage to sugarcane stems and roots, while a serrated-edged blade reduced stem damage overall.
A Lehigh team, backed by the Canadian government and philanthropic foundations, is developing test strips for women's health issues in rural Africa. The project aims to quickly diagnose urinary tract infections and prevent premature labor, low birth weight, or spontaneous abortion.
Researchers at Harvard developed a novel 3D printing method that enables control of short fibers in polymer matrices, resulting in enhanced strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance. This breakthrough has broad applications in materials engineering.
The Manufacturing Immortality Project aims to create materials with self-healing properties, combining biological and non-biological components. Researchers hope to develop consumer goods like smartphones with self-healing screens within the next three years.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a novel surgical adhesive inspired by the elastic defensive slime of the Dusky Arion slug. The new sealant mediates strong interfacial contact, conforms to skin and tissue, and closes holes in heart tissue with high effectiveness.
The new RoboBee, 1,000 times lighter than previous robots, uses floating devices and an internal combustion system to stabilize on the water's surface before propelling itself back into the air. The robot can perform search-and-rescue operations, environmental monitoring, and biological studies.
Recent advances in engineering bacterial outer membrane vesicles have demonstrated protection against infection by various bacterial species in animal models. These biologically-derived nanoparticles could function as a platform technology for vaccine development and targeted compound delivery.
Researchers are developing a novel, non-invasive, infrared-light-based neuro-stimulation tool to map and image the effects of infrared light on the human brain. The goal is to modulate and improve brain waves and circuits, leading to potential improvements in memory and cognition.
Researchers have identified a particular type of bacteria that may help break down lactic acid, leading to reduced muscle fatigue and soreness after intense exercise. The team also found niche microbiomes for different sports, suggesting potential benefits for various athletes.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has renewed funding for the University of Pittsburgh's Cardiovascular Bioengineering Training Program, which educates students in cardiovascular research and prepares them for careers in basic and translational cardiovascular research. The program focuses on three areas: understanding native and ...
Researchers develop ultrafast scanning fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to observe membraneless organelles. The technique reveals low-density, permeable structures, contrary to expected dense packing.
Biological engineers at Utah State University have successfully decoded and reprogrammed fungal biosynthetic machinery to produce natural compounds with anti-cancer, anti-microbial and anti-cholesterol properties. The team has reproduced several bio-active compounds in engineered microbes, including beauvericin and bassianolide.
Researchers have discovered that bacterial biofilms adapt their surface texture to repel water, similar to leaves. The structure of these biofilms is influenced by nutrient supply, with some behaving like lotus leaves and others like rose petals.
Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences used mathematical models to determine the best way to throw an object at a target. They found that underhand throws are best for close, high targets and overhand throws are more accurate for targets below the shoulder.
Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered that collagen can get unraveled at a molecular level before complete failure of connective tissues, leading to common injuries such as ligament and tendon tears. This breakthrough allows for early detection and potential treatment using the CHP probe.
The Human Frontier Science Program has selected 10 researchers to receive the prestigious Career Development Award for their innovative projects. The award will provide $300,000 over three years to establish independent laboratories and promote intercontinental collaboration.
A new tool called MARGI identifies all RNA molecules interacting with a segment of DNA, as well as their locations. This breakthrough enables researchers to identify new gene functions and instructions encoded in the genome.
Scientists at Harvard and MIT have developed a new 3D printing method that can create lightweight structural materials with tunable porosity, inspired by natural cellular structures. The approach uses ceramic foam ink to produce materials with exceptional stiffness and multifunctional properties.
Researchers from Harvard have developed a general framework to design reconfigurable metamaterials. This tool allows for the creation of materials that can switch between multiple functions and shapes autonomously, enabling new possibilities in structural engineering, aerospace, and beyond.
Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that hair behaves differently depending on stretching speed, with faster stretches making it stronger. The team found a unique structural transformation allowing hair to withstand high stress without breaking.
Researchers developed a multiregional brain-on-a-chip to study how diseases impact different regions of the brain. The model characterized differences between neurons from distinct brain regions and mimicked system connectivity.
A team of scientists from France has developed a method to visualize ice crystals in three dimensions as they grow, providing new insights into their formation process. By using confocal laser scanning microscopy and image analysis, the researchers can capture rapid images of ice crystals growing and measure their expansion rates.
Researchers at University of Missouri have developed a new, low-cost imaging platform that enables single molecule imaging with ordinary microscopes. The patented method uses surface plasmon resonance to achieve super-resolution imaging down to 65 nanometers.
A new report calls for increased funding for convergence research, which merges approaches from engineering, physics, and life sciences to transform health research. Convergence-based research has already shown promise, with many universities adopting this approach, including MIT's Koch Institute and Harvard's Wyss Institute.
Researchers have developed a system that allows RoboBees to perch in flight, saving energy. The electrostatic adhesion mechanism attracts the robot to surfaces, enabling it to extend its operational life significantly.
A new paper-based test developed at MIT and other institutions can diagnose Zika virus infection within a few hours. The test distinguishes Zika from the similar dengue virus, making it potentially practical for widespread use.
Researchers at Northwestern University have stabilized exfoliated black phosphorus by covalently bonding a single-molecule-thick layer onto its surface. This enhances electronic properties and prevents degradation in open air, making it suitable for applications such as sensors, transistors, and optoelectronics.
Researchers have developed GeNemo, an innovative search engine for functional genomic data. This tool allows users to search inside the data using pattern matching, enabling discoveries of functional aspects in specific genome regions associated with normal physiology or disease.
A new research by L. Mahadevan and his team discovered a fundamental origami fold, the Miura-ori, that can be used to create almost any three-dimensional shape. The team developed an algorithm that can create certain shapes using the Miura-ori fold, repeated with small variations.
Researchers at Rice University have created a new tool to analyze DNA in its native conditions, reducing analysis time from months to hours. The method generates more accurate results and can be used to build a comprehensive database of thermal behaviors of genetic molecules.
A study published in Pediatric Obesity found that waiting 30 seconds between bites of food can help children realize they're no longer hungry and prevent overeating. The slow eating approach resulted in significant weight loss among participants, with some students losing up to 5.7% of their initial weight after six months.
Researchers at KAUST developed a block copolymer membrane with nanoscale holes, demonstrating molecular selectivity and increased water flux. The new method overcomes practical challenges in fabricating porous membranes, enabling efficient filtration of pollutants from liquids.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a new fabrication process that cuts the time needed to make high-tech flexible sensors in half. The new process uses a peel-and-stick medium and allows for mass-market manufacturing, making it possible to monitor vital signs and brain activity more easily.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have found that lithium chloride can increase the size of primary cilia, disrupting Hedgehog Signalling and potentially treating osteoarthritis. This discovery may lead to new treatments for arthritis and other conditions.
Researchers at Harvard's John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have created a flying, swimming robotic bee that can transition between air and water. The microrobot, smaller than a paperclip, uses flapping motions inspired by puffins to propel itself through both mediums.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new tool to identify DNA and RNA sequences, which will help detect diseases and design therapies. The method allows for the simultaneous observation of multiple biomarkers by adjusting the brightness of fluorescent probes.
Research reveals that insecticide-treated bed nets function as human-baited insecticidal traps, delivering insecticide quickly to reduce mosquito activity. The study uses infrared video tracking technology to understand how mosquitoes interact with nets and inform future LLIN designs.
Researchers developed a theoretical model to explain the origins of self-replicating molecules. Their work suggests that complex polymers can form rapidly through a template-assisted ligation mechanism, which would have allowed early life on Earth to emerge.
BEACON researchers explore evolutionary dynamics of disease, antibiotic resistance, and climate change using digital organisms, aiming to develop robust solutions for industrial and societal problems. The grant renewal enables further breakthroughs in understanding and harnessing evolution in action.
Assistant Professor Ryan Hartman is awarded $501,000 to research methane's carbon-hydrogen bonds at moderate temperatures. His work could lead to more efficient synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, as well as innovative approaches to remote K-12 student engagement.
A recent study published in the journal Science suggests that seahorse tails' square prism shape offers a functional advantage over cylindrical shapes. This unique design could inspire new forms of armor and lead to the development of search-and-rescue robots with improved control and versatility.
The seahorse tail's square shape provides better resistance to twisting and grasping control due to increased contact area. Its resilience is attributed to gliding joints, making it a valuable inspiration for designing search-and-rescue robots and other technologies.
The new membranes show comparable performance to existing commercial membranes but with greater resistance to chlorine-containing chemicals. This technology can reduce operating costs and prevent decreased water flow due to biological fouling.
Researchers developed PolySTAT, an injectable polymer that strengthens blood clots, reducing bleeding in battlefield injuries and traumatic accidents. The synthetic polymer outperforms natural clotting factors and has the potential to treat hemophilia and improve hemorrhaging treatments.
Scientists at UT Arlington discovered that optogenetically stimulating a small area of the brain, specifically the anterior cingulate cortex, can significantly reduce pain behavior in lab mice. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for managing chronic pain and improving our understanding of pain pathways.
Researchers have developed a new technique to capture real-time 3D images of living organisms, such as zebrafish and fruit flies, allowing for the visualization of their anatomy and functions. This breakthrough uses Optical Projection Tomography, enabling the creation of three-dimensional images up to three millimeters long.
A new framework by UW-Madison engineers helps plot the future of solar fuels by accounting for general variables and big-picture milestones. The tool is designed to remain relevant as researchers experiment with new technologies and ideas, and can be adapted for other energy-related processes.
A Northwestern University study reveals an automated method of analyzing movie citations outperforms human critics and crowd wisdom in predicting a film's significance. The researchers analyzed over 15,000 movies and found that the number of references by other movies is the best predictor of inclusion in the National Film Registry.
A new vaccine technology aims to provide a nonsurgical method for spaying and neutering dogs and cats, potentially reducing the number of animals in shelters and preventing euthanizations. The vaccine targets gonadotropin-releasing hormone, crucial for reproduction in mammals.
The President awarded the nation's highest science and technology honors to 10 individuals who received NSF funding at some point in their careers. Many recipients have made lasting impacts on US competitiveness and quality of life.
The CURF Technology Maturation Fund supports the development of Clemson technologies, increasing the likelihood of commercialization. Five Clemson researchers received funding ranging from $20,000 to $36,000 each.
Engineers at Harvard University have created an untethered soft robot, measuring over half a meter in length, which can carry up to 7.5 pounds on its back. The robot, designed using composite silicone rubber and Kevlar fabric, has withstood extreme conditions such as snow, water, flames, and being run over by a car.