News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
SRI researchers conducted experiments to determine the risks associated with accidental hydrogen releases and subsequent combustion in a structure built to simulate a one-car garage. The study highlights important insights that will help consumers use hydrogen safely on a daily basis.
Researchers are studying skin's complex structure to create products that appeal to consumers, with a focus on lipid bilayers and ceramide molecules. The goal is to develop ingredients that improve skin's strength, elasticity, and overall feeling.
Research in nanoscience and nanotechnology found to be highly interdisciplinary, drawing on multiple areas of science and technology. The study analyzed over 30,000 papers with 'nano' themes, revealing diverse contributions from fields like clinical medicine, biomedical sciences, and physics.
The National Institutes of Health's Models of Infectious Disease Agent Study (MIDAS) has received new research expertise to simulate disease spread, evaluate intervention strategies and inform public health officials. New grants will support computational models of infectious diseases, including MRSA, flu, and seasonal illnesses.
Six NTU projects have received funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF) for research and innovation in wireless sensing, power converters, photonic micro electromechanical systems, electro-generated chemi-luminescence, antenna solutions, and anti-reflective coatings. The funded projects aim to develop core technologies for s...
A clinical trial of mifepristone is being conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in treating symptoms of Gulf War illness, a condition affecting 25% of veterans who served in the 1990-1991 Gulf War. The study aims to determine if mifepristone can improve physical and mental health outcomes in Gulf War veterans.
Researchers at Clemson University will receive $2 million from the NSF to mimic butterflies' suction mechanism for feeding. This method can be used in medical diagnostics and will help develop new fiber-based devices capable of probing hard-to-reach liquids.
Melanie Cooper, a Clemson University professor, has been recognized as an American Chemical Society Fellow for her contributions to chemistry education and research. Her research focuses on developing effective ways for students to learn science, including evidence-driven curricula like Chemistry, Life, the Universe and Everything (CLUE).
The National Institute of Statistical Sciences (NISS) has received funding to develop Bayesian methods for syndromic surveillance using conditionally auto regressive models. The research aims to provide quantified estimates of disease presence, characterize uncertainties, and implement computational methods at a nationwide scale.
The grant aims to support the development of a vaccine designed to protect pigs from novel H1N1 and other strains of influenza. Researchers at Iowa State University will test the technology against various strains.
The US Department of Energy's national laboratories have won 46 R&D 100 Awards for their exceptional work in technology transfer and innovation. These awards recognize the department's commitment to advancing energy security, environmental protection, and economic growth.
Lars Jansen, a young researcher from the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, has been awarded an EMBO Installation Grant to establish a new research group in Portugal. The grant provides funding and support to help him develop his research infrastructures and integrate into the European scientific community.
The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has awarded 16 fellowships to UK researchers, including the first-ever Diamond Fellowship. Professor So Iwata from Imperial College London will study human cell membrane transporters using high-quality x-rays produced by the Diamond Light Source.
GeoChip, developed by OU researchers, analyzes microbial functions and has been selected for the 2009 R&D 100 Award. The award recognizes innovative technologies with promising commercial potential.
PNNL has won two R&D 100 Awards for its PowerPuck technology, which harnesses environmental heat to create sustainable electrical power. The laboratory also developed an ultrasensitive ESI-MS Source & Interface, increasing sensitivity in human health studies and enabling precise measurements of chemical compounds.
Scientists have developed a more efficient method to produce a novel form of acetaminophen with reduced liver toxicity risk, offering a potential solution to the growing concern over the drug's effects.
Wake Forest University scientists have developed a new detection method for nitroxyl, which can strengthen canine heartbeats and has potential benefits for humans. The new tool will help answer questions about natural production of nitroxyl in the human body.
A new research impact analysis reveals a 194% increase in published articles from scientists in developing countries since 2002, with key partners including WHO, FAO, and UNEP. The Research4Life programmes have extended access to scientific literature, increasing researchers' opportunities to participate globally.
Concordia University has received a $3,348,402 CFI investment to support advanced research infrastructure, benefiting faculty members Suong Hoa, Lynn Hughes, and Ann English. The funding will enhance the university's reputation as an emerging leader in research across various fields.
A team of experts, led by The University of Nottingham, has unveiled a new set of high-resolution images revealing the plan of the Roman town of Venta Icenorum at Caistor St Edmund in Norfolk. The survey confirms street plan, water supply system, and public buildings like baths and temples.
A study from Vanderbilt University found that individuals with higher empathy levels were better at mentally transforming their body position to simulate another person's perspective. This suggests a link between spatial abilities and empathy, with implications for understanding the neural basis of emotional intelligence.
McGill University has received $63 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to support five research projects. These initiatives focus on green chemistry, broadband, embryology, cancer, and disease therapy, with world-class researchers exploring ways to address major public health problems.
Research reveals that teens are more likely to use drugs if their mothers have also used drugs and don't pressure them against it. Moms who admit to using drugs may be doing their kids a favor by opening up about the topic.
A new technique has been developed to evaluate basketball players' performance, using mathematical models that consider multiple factors such as points scored, rebounds, assists, and relative importance. The results show that certain players excel in specific positions, highlighting the need for more nuanced evaluation methods.
Dr. William Phillips emphasizes the importance of investing in basic research, citing ONR's support for his Nobel Prize-winning work on laser cooling and trapping of atoms. His lecture showcased the organization's commitment to innovative science and technology.
A new web-based program developed by University of Missouri researchers produces multiple alternative terrace layouts in a fraction of the time required for manual planning. The system considers factors such as water flow, land perimeter, and soil conservation techniques to create efficient and cost-effective designs.
Participatory Sensing enables individuals to identify, measure, and address problems such as air pollution and ecosystem damage using mobile phones. This platform presents scenarios for improving environmental protection and personal healthcare, leveraging the widespread access of mobile devices.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has awarded funding to nine new faculty research projects, valued at approximately $242,000. These initiatives focus on diverse areas such as health, energy, and sustainability.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati, in partnership with Hill-Rom Company, Inc., have developed a "Progressive Recovery Collection" of hospital gowns that cater to different patient needs. The collection features three options for patients who are seriously ill, somewhat mobile, and fully ambulatory, respectively.
SRI International has received a $100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop new antibiotics against antibiotic-resistant tuberculosis. The project aims to identify small organic molecule metabolites essential for bacterial growth and survival.
Researchers developed a new statistical model simulating human mobility patterns, with potential uses including land use planning and public health studies of epidemic disease. The model, called SLAW, represents regular movement patterns using statistical data.
Scientists have created a mouse model of Wolf-Hirschorn Syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by physical abnormalities and developmental delays. The model, which mimics the disease's effects on cardiac valves and facial structures, offers a valuable tool for researchers studying human development and disease.
Researchers developed a technology that detects damage to critical suspension components in military vehicles by driving over a speed bump-like cleat containing sensors. The system uses signal processing software to interpret sensor data and identify damage, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Recent observations from the USArray transportable array and EarthScope instruments have shed new light on seismic wave propagation and the evolution of the Yellowstone hotspot. The analysis suggests a common mantle source for the region's unique topographic features, providing valuable insights into geological processes.
Rutgers and Purdue universities will receive up to $30 million over six years to conduct research on information technologies for homeland security. The Rutgers team, led by DIMACS, will focus on data sciences, while Purdue's visualization sciences team will lead the other part of the center.
Jean Spitz, MPH, RDMS, receives the 2009 Distinguished Sonographer Award for her significant contributions to diagnostic ultrasound growth and development. She is recognized for her extensive work as an educator, researcher, and practitioner in obstetric and gynecologic sonography.
Dr. Sihoun Hahn received the 2009-2010 Luminex/ACMGF Award to promote safe and effective genetic testing and services. The award supports research guidelines and recognizes medical geneticists' role in translating genetic research into medical services.
CTIP2 is a transcriptional factor controlling skin development and lipid biosynthesis, potentially playing a role in skin disorders and wrinkling. Understanding its mechanisms may provide a solution to these issues.
A special issue explores how global institutions shape domestic R&D policies, and how international sourcing of technology impacts innovation. The articles present diverse methods and data to improve understanding of the interplay between national institutions and the globalized political economy.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel technique using spun-sugar filaments to create synthetic tubes that mimic natural nerves. The scaffolds can promote nerve regeneration by acting as bridges between severed nerves, and may also be used to repair blood vessels damaged by disease.
The new technology uses self-replicating RNA molecules to detect specific chemicals, allowing for precise measurements of drugs, toxins, and other substances. This method has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine, environmental monitoring, and molecular computing.
When reading sentences describing everyday actions, volunteers who read second-person statements (
A Brown University researcher has developed a user-friendly guide for doctors and patients on choosing high-quality hospice care. The guide emphasizes the importance of
A new study published in Child Development finds that preschoolers spend most of their day inactive, with 89% of physical activity characterized as sedentary. When balls and open spaces are made available, children become more likely to be active.
A comprehensive survey of global spending on neglected disease R&D found that just over $2.5 billion was invested in 2007, with HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria receiving nearly 80% of the total funding. Many neglected diseases are underfunded, with some receiving less than 4% of global funding.
Research suggests that US public funding for specialty crops is inadequate, with production value growth not matched by research spending. Increasing funding could lead to lower fruit and vegetable prices, promoting healthier diets among Americans.
A four-year prospective cohort study will examine the cognitive and affective consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Iraq and Afghanistan-era veterans. The study aims to provide evidence-based understanding of TBI's impact on veterans' quality of life, health care use, and community participation.
The Institute for Reproductive Health will make scientifically-based natural family planning methods available to Title X clients, testing strategies to overcome barriers and increase adoption. The Standard Days Method has been shown to be over 95% effective in preventing pregnancy.
A new test has been developed to detect a class of emerging endurance drugs called benzothiazepines, which can be used by athletes to gain a performance advantage. The test detects the core chemical structure of these compounds, allowing sports officials to screen for them and prevent cheating.
Dr. Joshua Maurer's research aims to unravel the tricks of neuronal wiring using zebrafish. He seeks to replicate brain-like interactions on a glass surface, allowing real-time observation of neuron growth and guidance. This knowledge could lead to better nerve repair strategies in humans.
Researchers have developed a trans-splicing system that uses RNA to inactivate genes and improve efficiency in correcting RNA sequences. This approach enhances the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes for spinal muscular atrophy, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects 1 in 6,000 live births.
The Partition Decoupling Method (PDM) is a new mathematical tool that can unscramble the underlying structure of time-dependent, interrelated complex data. The researchers applied it to the equities market, revealing both known structures and patterns as well as new ones.
Liverpool Associates in Tropical Health (LATH) has been awarded a £10 million contract to strengthen Malawi's health research capacity. The initiative aims to enhance institutional capacity for high-quality multi-disciplinary health research and improve the use of research in national policy and implementation.
Researchers at UC San Diego are creating a new imaging process, MoBI, to study human brain and body dynamics during natural activities. This technology combines EEG recordings with motion capture, allowing scientists to explore distributed brain dynamics supporting human behavior.
Jeannie Albrecht is heading one of 29 academic/industrial research teams working on prototypes to expand the security, manageability, and versatility of networking systems. The team aims to build a user-friendly experiment control and management framework called Gush to support large-scale network management.
Researchers have created a material that can reflect light from all angles, overcoming optical singularities. This breakthrough could lead to the development of perfect cat's eyes and invisibility devices. The discovery is based on transformation optics and has potential applications in wireless technology and radar.
UBC researchers have developed a new class of ultracold plasma made from molecules, which promises to revolutionize our understanding of plasmas and their properties. The technique creates plasmas three orders of magnitude denser than those made with trapped atoms, allowing for higher levels of correlation and potentially leading to ne...
Researchers have developed nematode-resistant varieties of bell peppers, such as Charleston Belle and Carolina Wonder, which can be used as viable alternatives to methyl bromide for managing southern root-knot nematode. These varieties are stable in sub-tropical climates and can increase the availability of parasite-resistant vegetables.
The AAAS Science Journalism Awards honored excellence in science reporting, including a series on memory and the brain, efforts to search for life elsewhere in the cosmos, and an investigation into the effectiveness of anti-cholesterol medications. The winners received $3,000 and a plaque at the 2009 Annual Meeting.
Yeheskel Bar-Ness, a prominent expert in wireless communications and signal processing, has been recognized with the Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award. His innovative work on MIMO-OFDM technology will facilitate the transport of five times more data traffic than today's most advanced networks.