News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
Researchers will develop multiscale molecular models to design new classes of artificial materials with bioinspired dynamic properties. The project aims to explore new ways to build bioinspired materials with unprecedented dynamical properties, active materials able to perform complex functions.
The AF-369 VHF/UHF terrestrial antenna increases useable bandwidth by 80%, providing accurate direction finding across a wide frequency range. This innovation reduces the overall cost and complexity of monitoring systems, enabling critical spatial awareness for intelligence analysts.
Researchers at KAIST developed AI technology that automatically detects safe moments for AI agents to provide conversation services to drivers. The technology was tested on a real-world driving dataset and demonstrated an accuracy of 87% in determining opportune moments for driver interruption.
Ghost imaging allows forming images with lower light levels but has been limited to stationary objects due to blurring from movement. Researchers developed a new method combining blurry image information with object location data to capture high-quality images of moving objects using ghost imaging.
Researchers developed SleepFit, a new app to monitor Parkinson's disease, which showed good agreement between prospectively and retrospectively collected data. The study found that patients with higher disagreement tended to have more advanced disease or worse sleep quality.
Researchers have identified a key difference between SMAD2 and SMAD3, revealing that SMAD2 binds to DNA and activates gene expression. This finding refutes the theory that SMAD2 does not bind to DNA.
Researchers used a dataset to model primary care networks and found that removing critical fractions of PCPs can lead to significant weakening of the network. This can result in inadequate coverage for patients, even when critical thresholds are not reached.
The Texas Heart Institute is developing a novel pacemaker system that is both leadless and wirelessly powered. The new pacemakers allow simultaneous pacing and sensing from multiple sites in the heart to help reduce complications associated with traditional pacemakers.
Research published in JNeurosci found that fetal brains possess adult-like networks by 20-40 weeks gestation. The study discovered a 61% overlap in motor, visual, auditory, and cognitive functions between fetal and adult connectomes.
Researchers at Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth have developed an approach for detecting a speaker's intent to mislead, which could be used to extract opinion from 'fake news.' The framework uses universal features of deceptive reasoning and has been shown to outperform models based on verbal changes and personal differences.
A two-legged robot named Little Hermes has been developed to walk, run, jump and interact with the environment synchronously with a human operator. The robot is guided by a person from a remote location who feels the same physical forces as the robot.
The spider-inspired depth sensor combines metalenses and nanophotonic parts for low-computation depth sensing, paving the way for microrobots and wearable devices. It reduces computation required compared to previous passive sensors, enabling future applications in various fields.
JST announces success in developing mass production equipment for ultra-low loss nano crystal ribbon, a new material that minimizes electrical energy loss. The technology has potential uses in electric vehicle motors and is expected to have a wide range of practical applications.
A University of Texas at Austin team developed an AI system named Fashion++ that analyzes outfits and suggests tweaks for a more fashionable look. The tool uses visual recognition systems to consider color, pattern, texture, and shape, offering alternative outfits to users.
Researchers at Salk Institute create mouse blastocyst-like structures from single cultured cells, mimicking the natural developmental process. The blastoids can form a ball with an inner and outer layer, accumulating proteins that induce expression of proteins to build what could eventually become a placenta.
A team of researchers from SciLifeLab and AstraZeneca have used cryo-EM to unravel the extracellular region of the receptor tyrosine kinase RET, which is involved in degenerative diseases. The study reveals how two large RET monomers dimerize on the membrane, leading to potential therapeutic targets for neuronal survival.
A KAIST research team developed an advanced system to automatically analyze visual information in films and quantify gender bias. The study found that female characters are often depicted in passive emotions and surrounded by specific objects, promoting public awareness of the importance of prudence when creating characters.
Researchers conducted a 'Photosynthesis Olympics' study to identify the most efficient wheat varieties, finding that top performers were up to 90% better than worst ones due to genetic differences. The results have significant implications for breeders and farmers, offering potential for improved yields with reduced inputs.
A new blood self-collection device has been developed to quickly estimate a person's exposure to radiation in the event of a nuclear accident or attack. The device, which can process samples in a centralized lab, could help triage emergency medical treatment and alleviate a sample collection bottleneck.
Marshall University has received a five-year, $17 million award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to continue its biomedical research efforts in West Virginia. The WV-INBRE program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity and provide access to resources for undergraduate students.
Researchers are developing methods to solve vibration problems in mechanical systems, a common issue in aerospace and construction industries. Mathematical modeling helps prevent resonance-induced failures.
The Clin-STAR Coordinating Center, led by AFAR, will promote and enrich the career development of clinician-investigators across specialties and disciplines. The center aims to improve care for older adults through a multi-faceted national platform, leveraging the expertise of four principal investigators from Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Yale...
Researchers at University of Tsukuba developed a new CRIF method to detect unique fluorescent signatures of individual microbial cells in mixtures. The non-destructive technique allows for realistic three-dimensional environments and can distinguish between different types of microbes.
A FSU research team has developed methods to manipulate polymers, changing their fundamental structure. This breakthrough enables potential applications in cargo delivery, recyclable materials, shape-shifting soft robots and antimicrobials.
Aalto University researchers have developed a natural wax coating that makes garments water-resistant and breathable, using carnauba wax and a cheaper, cationic starch alternative. The coating retains breathability and natural feel while being environmentally friendly.
ORNL's labwide AI Initiative applies machine learning and deep learning to tackle complex problems in materials science, disease diagnosis, and cybersecurity. The lab's powerful computing resources and expertise enable researchers to develop new technologies and extract insights from massive datasets.
Researchers created robots entirely from smaller robots called smarticles, unlocking a new locomotion technique. The smarticles can form structures and move in response to stimuli, allowing them to navigate mazes and even change their shapes.
Scientists are developing a highly sensitive detector capable of sensing single photons, which could be crucial for finding Earth-like planets around other stars. The detector leverages Quanta Image Sensor technology and has several advantages, including the ability to operate at room temperature and resistance to radiation.
The researchers designed a nanocube that can detect liquefied petroleum gas with high sensitivity and specificity, mimicking the way proteins and DNA put themselves together in living cells. The nanocubes are as sensitive as current gas detectors but have a unique specificity to LPG.
A new US study found that preschool-age children's persistence in the face of challenges is influenced by adults' actions, successes, and failures. When adults succeed at a task, speaking about the value of effort encourages persistence in children. Conversely, failure can discourage children from persisting.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation will conduct a comprehensive five-year study on the effects of robotic exoskeleton-assisted gait training in patients with stroke. The study aims to improve recovery of lost mobility and understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of exoskeleton-assisted gait therapy.
A new gene therapy has been developed to specifically reduce fat tissue and reverse obesity-related metabolic disease in obese mice by targeting a fatty acid metabolism gene. The therapy resulted in a 20% reduction of body weight and improved insulin resistance and inflammation after just six weeks of treatment.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new algorithm that enables the 'roboats' to smoothly reshape themselves as efficiently as possible. The system, designed for Amsterdam's canals, allows groups of linked roboat units to unlatch from one another and reattach to form various structures, such as bridges and stages.
The Indiana 5G Zone will drive the testing and development of 5G-enabled technologies, leveraging faster speeds, lower data latency, and increased reliability. Businesses and innovators can develop next-generation technological advancements in the Indianapolis-based site.
Researchers developed artificial 'chameleon skin' that changes color when exposed to heat or light using nanoparticles coated in a polymer shell. The material's color-changing abilities rely on light-powered nano-mechanisms, similar to nature's chromatophores, allowing for dynamic displays and active camouflage.
Researchers at Iowa State University have made three groundbreaking discoveries about non-equilibrium quantum phase discovery via non-thermal ultrafast quench near quantum critical points. These findings could lead to the development of new technologies such as optical computing, novel sensors and high-speed communication capabilities.
A new computer tool can reveal valuable insights into rodents' communication patterns and is more reliable than existing methods. The system analyses audio recordings of ultrasonic vocalisations to determine different types of sounds, standardizing interpretations for direct comparisons.
A new study has found that pharmacies are giving out twice as many pill organisers as ten years ago, which can cause harm to some patients. The research team developed guidelines for healthcare teams to identify patients who may benefit from using a pill organiser or alternative solutions.
Researchers at DGIST developed flexible sensors that can detect pressure and vibration similar to human skin, with more sensitive detections. The sensors mimic 'Slow Adaptive' and 'Fast Adaptive' receptors, enabling accurate classification of fabric roughness and potential applications in artificial skin grafting and VR experiences.
The DOE has allocated $6.5 million to advance isotope research and development, focusing on cancer diagnostic and therapeutic agents, as well as improving production techniques. This funding will enhance isotope availability and purity for US applications in science, medicine, and industry.
Research in four-year-old children found that the right hemisphere can take over language functions when the left hemisphere is damaged early in development. This flexibility of the brain offers insight into typical language development and recovery from injury.
A new strategy for designing light-sensitive proteins has been developed by researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum. They combined computer-aided and experimental methods to create a more targeted approach, enabling the manipulation of protein building blocks without impairing function.
The Argonne-led Center for Electrochemical Energy Science has developed two new electrode technologies that use graphene to improve lithium-ion battery properties. These advancements have led to increased power, lifetime, and safety, as well as the ability to function at low temperatures, critical for electric vehicles in cold regions.
A novel soft robot with color-changing capabilities has been developed by mimicking the chameleon's skin cells. The robot can sense its environment and exhibit dynamic color change in response. Its unique properties make it suitable for sensing, communication, and disguise in soft robotics.
A new multi-national survey found that nearly one-tenth of work hours are missed by asthma sufferers, resulting in significant productivity loss. Additionally, workers reported feeling embarrassed, ashamed, and inferior when using inhalers at work.
The University of Bern and Diabetes Center Berne create four tenure-track assistant professorships in diabetes technology and clinical research. The positions will focus on translating research into clinical use and improving patient outcomes.
Michigan State University has received a $2.5 million grant to develop the teaching of less commonly taught languages, particularly Indigenous languages, through a multi-university initiative. The project will create sustainable models of instruction and promote language proficiency to deepen cultural understanding.
Researchers developed a user-friendly, stretch-sensing data glove to capture real-time, interactive hand poses with precision. The gloves outperformed commercial products in most cases, and the team plans to expand to other sizes and shapes.
A University of Houston researcher is studying the impact of racial discrimination on moderate-to-heavy drinking adult Latinxs, revealing higher rates of anxiety and excessive drinking. The study aims to raise awareness about sociocultural experiences that increase risk for addiction.
A new AI radar system developed by DGIST can detect subminiature drones flying as far as 3km away, thanks to the use of super-resolution algorithm and AESA radar signal processing technology. The system also integrates GANs-based drone cognition technology for real-time detection and identification.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are developing novel expandable and programmable polymers that activate at high temperatures to strengthen wellbores. These smart materials will help reduce non-drilling time and improve drilling efficiency in geothermal wells.
The Bureau of Reclamation has awarded $5.1 million in research grants to develop new, cost-effective ways to desalinate and treat impaired water. Laboratory-scale projects will focus on determining the viability of novel processes and materials, while pilot-scale proposals will test larger-scale technologies.
Chunlei Liang and Volker J. Sorger are awarded PECASE for their outstanding research in fluid dynamics and photonic integrated devices. Their work has the potential to revolutionize software that predicts space weather and develop faster information processing systems.
The FY series satellite program has undergone four main stages, with recent advancements focusing on improved core data processing techniques. Chinese meteorological satellites are now a crucial component of the global observing system, providing stable and accurate measurements.
Researchers at US Naval Research Laboratory developed a new technique that enables precise control over quantum dot wavelengths, paving the way for breakthroughs in quantum information technologies and brain-inspired computing. This achievement could lead to new technologies that harness the strange properties of quantum physics for co...
Dual-polarization radars in China have improved understanding of precipitation microphysics and quantitative precipitation estimation. The data collected from these radars has been used to validate numerical models and improve hydrometeor classification.
Researchers developed a system of physics equations to model how water spills out over an earth dike, causing it to break and overflow. The new model takes into account the deformation of the dike's bed while water erodes it, providing more accurate predictions and improving flood safety.
Researchers have developed a novel method to detect defaulting participants in contract-based demand response programs by leveraging sparse reconstruction. By analyzing limited data from smart meters and applying an iterative improvement technique, the proposed method enables accurate detection of failure sources with minimal inspections.
NYU Tandon Professor Jin Kim Montclare has been awarded $400,000 by the Army Research Office for her work on bio-engineering proteins to develop wet adhesion in sealants and medical adhesives. Her team aims to create responsive biological adhesives that can interface with non-living materials.
A new study reveals that close-range blast exposure among Iraq and Afghanistan war vets may lead to degradation of white matter, a key factor in neurodegeneration. Veterans with the APOE ε4 allele, a well-known genetic risk factor for AD, are more susceptible to these effects.