News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
Aston University's Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies has received a £100,000 grant to support its research in food and agri-tech. The new equipment will enable the development of cost-effective photonic technology for quality control in food processing and manufacturing.
Scientists at Sandia National Labs invent a new yardstick for benchmarking performance of quantum computers. The mirror-circuit method is faster and more accurate than conventional tests, revealing the true potential and limitations of quantum processors.
Researchers at MIT developed a selective separation process using sulfidation to target rare metals like cobalt in lithium-ion batteries. The approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional liquid-based separation methods.
Scientists developed an all-season smart-roof coating that automatically switches between cooling and heating, outperforming commercial cool-roof systems in energy savings. The technology uses vanadium dioxide to regulate its rate of radiative cooling, overcoming the problem of overcooling in winter.
A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.
Research comparing site-specific nutrient management approaches to existing farmer fertilization practices shows SSNM improves average rice yield by 644 kg/ha, increases profitability, and reduces N losses. SSNM also promotes better nutrient balance and considers micronutrients like zinc and iron.
The University of Central Florida researchers have developed an alcohol-based power source for cars and other technology that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. The ethanol fuel cell has achieved a maximum power density and operation time of over 5,900 hours, making it a promising alternat...
Researchers discovered that blood stem cells use high-energy fatty acids from the body's fat stores to power up their response to infection. This finding could lead to new approaches in treating bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable and older individuals.
The Estée Lauder Companies has released its Green Score methodology to assess and measure the sustainability of ingredients and formulas based on green chemistry principles. The approach uses a quantitative tool to evaluate human health, ecosystem health, and environmental impact across its product portfolio.
Researchers developed an AI system to predict ICU admission for COVID-19 patients based on over 200 clinical data points. The system achieved greater than 95-per-cent accuracy in predicting ICU need for new cases and identified key factors driving its predictions.
A new study developed by researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that a simple, self-administered test can identify early signs of dementia sooner than the most commonly used office-based standard cognitive test. The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination (SAGE test) accurately identified patients with mil...
Researchers developed a new kind of organoid that grows both heart and gut cells together, mirroring their cooperation in embryonic development. This breakthrough could improve understanding of tissue communication and inform research into congenital disorders.
Researchers have developed a new two-photon microscope that provides subcellular resolution of multiple brain regions, enabling monitoring of neural circuitry in mammals. The microscope has the largest field of view and imaging speed to capture changes in neuron activity during behavior.
A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine showed that a fast-tracked stroke drug, 3K3A-APC, protected mice from injury to the brain's white matter, a leading cause of dementia. The drug may also be effective in slowing down progression of cognitive impairment.
A new study found that research and development on chemistry and materials science were key factors behind the significant cost decline of lithium-ion batteries. The analysis revealed that over 50% of the cost reduction came from R&D activities, with chemistry and materials research being the primary contributors.
UArizona researchers created osseosurface electronics, a wireless device that grows to the surface of bone to monitor health and healing. The thin structure allows for accurate measurements over long periods, enabling personalized orthopedic care.
Researchers discovered that a specialized form of vitamin D can reduce inflammation caused by T cells in lung cells, which may be relevant to severe COVID-19. The study suggests that adding this concentrated intravenous metabolite to existing treatments could help patients recover from COVID infections.
A team of scientists from Tokyo University of Science has developed a machine learning-based tool to predict thermoacoustic oscillations in engines. The tool uses dynamical systems theory and can classify combustion into three states, identifying pressure fluctuations that indicate future combustion oscillations.
Researchers developed a novel model to identify specific genes and genetic alterations in multiple myeloma, stratifying the cancer's severity via DNA and RNA sequencing. This model revealed diverse subtypes and high-risk patients beyond current classifications.
Scientists at the University of Fukui developed a new triboelectric fabric that generates electricity from body movement, maintaining flexibility and breathability. The fabric, called AF-TENG, can power low-powered devices like LEDs and calculators, demonstrating its potential in wearable technology.
A UT Dallas-led team of researchers has developed a new technique to deliver medication to the brain by temporarily opening the blood-brain barrier. The method uses light and nanoparticles to pry open tight junctions, allowing medication to reach its target with minimal disruption.
Researchers at Politecnico di Torino developed a new method for creating nanoresonators using 3D printing, achieving mechanical performances similar to silicon-based devices. The technique enables the creation of complex and miniature sensors with improved sensitivity and strength.
Research has shown steady progress toward achieving large energy gain in fusion reactions, a crucial milestone for commercial fusion energy. Recent advancements in laser-driven devices and lower-cost private concepts have significantly increased performance thresholds, surpassing early tokamak designs.
The American Pediatric Society (APS) has named Dr. Megan A. Moreno the recipient of the 2022 Norman J. Siegel Outstanding Science Award, recognizing her significant contributions to pediatric science and adolescent health. The award acknowledges her pioneering work on social media research and its impact on adolescent wellbeing.
Researchers found that glatiramer acetate improved cognitive behavior and reduced amyloid plaques in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. This study suggests therapies targeting the immune system could be effective in treating the disease.
The Nordic countries' shadow education system has flourished due to a competitive global knowledge economy. Despite being underexplored, research provides insights into its emergence and sociocultural implications. The special issue sheds light on the Nordic model's erosion and persistence in the face of shadow education.
Researchers at Mount Sinai have developed a diverse library of well-characterized human induced pluripotent stem cell lines from clinically healthy individuals, offering valuable resources for studying normal human biology, evaluating drug responses, and disease modeling.
The new Atlantic Marine Energy Center, led by UNH, will focus on wave and tidal energy conversion, as well as ocean sensing and aquaculture. The center aims to advance marine renewable energy technologies through research, education, and outreach.
Researchers developed a viral panel that enables simultaneous testing for SARS-CoV-2 and common respiratory viruses, providing insight into coinfections and viral spread. The tool helps predict and mitigate future outbreaks by tracking novel viral variants and their patterns of spread.
A Northwestern University-led study found that while researchers' productivity levels have returned to pre-pandemic highs, scientists who did not pursue COVID-19-related research initiated 36% fewer new projects in 2020 compared to 2019. This decline suggests the pandemic's impact on science may be longer-lasting than commonly imagined.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers is using new technology and imaging strategies to improve impaired waste clearance of the brain due to sleep disruption. The project aims to enhance the natural system of brain cleansing that occurs during sleep.
SMART researchers have discovered a practical method to overcome current challenges in the manufacture of indium gallium nitride (InGaN) LEDs with considerably higher indium concentration. The new approach uses intrinsic defects in semiconducting materials to form quantum dots that emit long-wavelength light.
Texas A&M researchers are advancing technology to give touch devices the ability to mimic physical objects, enriching virtual environments and reducing audiovisual overload. The goal is to create predictive models for designing devices with maximum haptic effect and minimum sensitivity to users and environmental variations.
A new project aims to empower people who are blind to independently review and protect their personal visual content from accidental privacy leaks. Researchers have developed novel computer vision algorithms that can detect sensitive information in images and videos, allowing users to blur or remove private content before sharing.
Researchers found that somatostatin interneurons can cause seizures when they go haywire, disrupting the brain's balance. The study identified a rare epilepsy syndrome and developed mouse models to understand the neurological dysfunction, paving the way for new treatments.
A new instrument at the Advanced Light Source enables simultaneous measurement of crystal structure and optical properties during perovskite synthesis. This allows for real-time monitoring of material quality and performance, leading to potentially more efficient solar cells.
A novel computational platform called scAAVengr uses single-cell RNA sequencing to quickly evaluate viral vectors for delivering gene therapies to the retina with maximum efficiency and precision. This approach saves time and resources by identifying suitable candidates that can deliver therapy to affected parts of the retina accurately.
The study identifies promising topics for scientific collaboration, including medicine, engineering, computer science, and agricultural sciences. BRICS Plus countries have significant growth potential in research and development, with some already ranking among the top 30 countries globally.
The study found that a stack pressure of 350 kilo Pascal increases lithium particle deposition in neat columns, improving stability and reducing the risk of short circuits. Additionally, partial discharge during cycling can also boost performance without affecting the solid electrolyte interphase structure.
A new study found that translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) correlates with worse survival outcomes in male glioblastoma patients compared to females. The variation in the protein's structure is associated with shorter overall and progression-free survival times, suggesting its potential as a prognostic biomarker.
A new study examines vaccination misinformation on social media, revealing that fear-provoking messaging fuels its spread. The research team developed predictive models to identify true and false information on Twitter, categorizing messages as positive or negative cause-effect statements.
Researchers developed a program to target vaccinations using digital contact tracing technology, which can almost halve the number of vaccines required to bring the pandemic under control. The new program prioritizes individuals with the most contacts for vaccinations while keeping personal data private.
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science has been awarded a $2 million matching grant to develop and open state-of-the-art wet lab space for collaboration with industry partners. The funding will also benefit Lake County communities by attracting biotech companies and creating new jobs, internships, and training programs.
A woman-owned spinout company, Chosen Diagnostics Inc, has received a $2.1M NIH grant to develop and commercialize a noninvasive diagnostic biomarker test for necrotizing enterocolitis. The test, called NECDetect, identifies 93% true positives and 95% true negatives in diagnosing the disease.
Researchers developed a simple screening tool for cervical myelopathy (CM) using machine learning and finger motion analysis with a non-contact sensor. The tool has shown high accuracy in detecting CM, outperforming specialist diagnoses based on physical findings.
Developed a highly efficient boiling immersion cooler using lotus metals, increasing critical heat flux from 200 W/cm² to 530 W/cm² or more. The technology is expected to solve the heat concentration problem of in-vehicle power semiconductors and be applied to CPUs for workstations and large-scale servers.
Researchers developed PocketView, a display technology that shows basic information like notifications and time through fabrics, offering versatility and ease of use. The technology is relatively inexpensive and can be incorporated into existing devices, making it a potential game-changer in wearable tech.
A new locally acting treatment aims to reduce the severity of post-transplant ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) without affecting the immune system. The treatment targets specific neoepitopes exposed on injured donor organs, reducing the risk of organ rejection and improving transplant outcomes.
The CARE Consortium has received $42.65 million in new funding to follow athletes for up to 10 years after concussive injury, examining the impacts of head injuries on brain health. The study aims to validate advanced biomarkers and identify neurobiological pathways contributing to long-term negative consequences.
Researchers at MIT develop RFusion, a robotic system that uses data from a camera and radio frequency antenna to locate and retrieve lost items. The system relies on RFID tags and machine learning algorithms to optimize the robot's trajectory and grasp the object.
A blockchain-based system allows leader robots to signal movements and add transactions to a chain, while malicious leaders forfeit tokens when caught in a lie. This limits the spread of incorrect information and enables follower robots to eventually reach their destination.
Dr. Gack's research focuses on identifying broad-spectrum antiviral drug targets and has implications for developing effective treatments against COVID-19 and other viral threats. The $5.6 million NIH grant will support her investigation into targeting human enzymes essential for virus replication.
MUSC researcher Haizhen Wang receives R37 grant to investigate CDK6's role in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a aggressive cancer. The research aims to understand how the immune system can be used to reduce leukemia progression.
Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel antibacterial material called NANO-LPPO that can prevent infection and facilitate treatment of skin wounds. The material combines lipophosphonoxins with a nonwoven nanotextile, which releases active substances in response to bacterial presence.
The Army has pledged $5.2 million to Rice University's research on flash Joule heating, a process that turns waste into graphene and other valuable materials. The technology can recover precious metals from electronic waste and toxic metals from contaminated soil.
Glyscend Therapeutics has initiated a phase 1 clinical trial in Australia investigating an oral polymer therapy that improves glucose homeostasis with weight loss in nonclinical models. The therapy targets mechanisms underlying bariatric surgery and aims to replicate its benefits without the need for surgery.
Researchers at RIT have developed a new method for detecting superfluid motion that is minimally destructive, in situ, and in real-time. The technique uses laser light to detect the frequency of superfluid rotation, enabling scientists to study superfluids without disrupting their motion.
China's space transportation systems have made significant leaps in recent decades, with advancements in launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and artificial intelligence. The country aims to become a powerful space nation by the mid-21st century, with plans for manned missions to the Moon and Mars.
Scientists at Aarhus University are working on a nano-sized brain-inspired computer that can harvest its own energy, making it the smallest and most efficient AI system yet. The project aims to reduce power consumption by 12 orders of magnitude compared to modern supercomputers.
A team of NTU Singapore scientists developed a predictive computer model called NSGA-II, which proposed strategies to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths by an average of 72%. The model recommended timely and country-specific advice on interventions such as home quarantines and social distancing measures.