News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
Tibotec presents data from the OPERA-1 Phase IIa trial showing dose-dependent antiviral activity of TMC435, with mean reductions in HCV RNA of 2.63 and 3.47 log10 IU/mL. Nearly 90% of patients achieved undetectable viral load within 28 days of combined treatment with standard care.
Research suggests that most individuals' end-of-life treatment preferences do not change over three years, regardless of physical or mental decline. However, those who initially desired aggressive care and lacked advance directives showed the greatest changes in their wishes.
Researchers are developing methods to model pathways, interpret data, and derive therapeutic targets from biological networks. Biological systems are governed by vast networks of interacting molecules, and scientists are investigating signaling pathways for receptor tyrosine kinases.
The sensors can be buried in a grid pattern and relay data to a central computer, providing real-time high-resolution data for farmers and researchers. This technology aims to maximize yields, minimize environmental impacts and provide more accurate crop growth predictions.
Researchers will build bridges between complex systems and engineering fields to design and control large-scale nonlinear networked systems. The project will also develop an agent-based intelligent distributed control scheme for microgrids operated by retail markets.
Takeda's investigational PPI TAK-390MR demonstrates higher healing rates than lansoprazole among patients with more severe grades of erosive esophagitis. The drug combines dexlansoprazole with a Dual Delayed Release formulation, designed to provide extended duration of acid suppression.
Researchers are developing nanofiber-based probes for medical diagnostics, which may save time and money compared to traditional methods. The probes, 10 times smaller in diameter than a human hair, can extract tiny samples from biological fluids.
EPA's STAR fellowship program supports promising masters and doctoral candidates, such as Matthias Fripp, who are developing sustainable energy solutions for America. The program also recognizes the work of former fellows, including Toiya Goodlow and Dr. Brandon Jones, who now work at EPA.
Research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood found that an infant diet including fish before 9 months significantly cuts the risk of developing eczema. The study also discovered that owning a pet bird was associated with a reduced risk of the condition.
The Stevens Institute of Technology team will conduct a 24-month research project to develop an image-fused multi-wavelength sensor system for target acquisitions and tracking. The proposed system combines different energy spectrums to produce superior resultant images, increasing the war fighter's lethality.
Nakhiah Goulbourne's NSF CAREER award aims to develop specific models and experiments for heart stent sensors. The goal is to create diagnostic tools that can dynamically monitor the mechanical state of the stented artery, reducing implant failures and improving cardiovascular flow.
The Woods Institute has awarded five faculty planning grants to develop long-term research programs at Stanford, focusing on solving the world's water demands. The grants aim to identify promising solutions to freshwater challenges and facilitate partnerships among academics, businesses, and policymakers.
The J. Paul Sticht Center on Aging at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center has been renewed as one of 11 nationwide Claude D. Pepper Older American Independence Centers. The center will receive almost $1 million each year to support clinical research in aging and promote functional independence among older adults.
A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine tracked 500 older runners for over 20 years, finding that regular running delays disability and reduces the risk of early death. The study's findings support the theory that 'comparing morbidity' - compressing the period of declining health - can extend high-quality life.
Clinician-scientists in the UK are struggling with a lack of career support, limited research training opportunities, and significant medical school debts. However, new funding and mentorship programs may help alleviate these challenges and preserve this vital profession.
A research team at Georgia Tech is developing foundational research in massive data analysis and visual analytics. The project aims to improve the visual analytics of massive data sets through machine learning, numerical algorithms, and optimization.
The Iowa Corn Promotion Board and NJIT have jointly agreed to license four patents for corn-derived isosorbide, a chemical with applications in plasticizer, UV-absorbing product, and epoxy coating. This alternative has been shown to be safe for use in baby bottles, infant toys, and other children's products.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have won two R&D 100 Awards for their work on ultra-high power lithium-ion batteries and ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) mechanical seals. These innovations demonstrate the scientific know-how and innovative spirit of Argonne researchers.
A new study by researchers at the University of Utah found that Colombian children living in war zones exhibited a complex moral understanding, with most rejecting theft and harm but accepting it as a means to an end. The study highlights potential vulnerabilities in children's moral lives during times of conflict.
Researchers have created a microbe-based solution to clean up leftovers from ethanol production, saving producers millions in energy costs. The technology can recycle 80% of the organic material, reducing waste and producing valuable co-products worth $400 million annually.
The partnership aims to improve decision-making by incorporating the value of ecosystem services into policy. Researchers will use computer models to predict impacts on ecosystem services from development options.
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev has reached a strategic cooperation agreement with Microsoft's R&D Center, enabling joint research projects and internships for outstanding students. The partnership aims to create a talented group of programmers and develop next-generation technology innovations.
The article proposes merging NOAA and USGS to create an independent Earth Systems Science Agency (ESSA) to address climate change, freshwater availability, and biodiversity loss. The new agency would have a comprehensive perspective on both environmental and resource systems.
Research using Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology has confirmed Huntington's disease before symptoms appear, allowing for early treatment. The study identified extensive white matter degeneration, a hallmark of the disease, which can help explain its complex motor and cognitive problems.
The US remains the dominant leader in science and technology worldwide, with 40% of global R&D spending, but faces challenges from increasing competition, particularly from China. The study recommends establishing a permanent monitoring body and improving K-12 education to maintain the nation's lead.
The Gerontological Society of America has selected twenty recipients for the 2008 Hartford Doctoral Fellows Pre-Dissertation Award. The awardees will receive funding and attend workshops to develop their research skills at the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting.
Alogliptin demonstrated significant reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly when used as monotherapy or added to existing oral anti-diabetic treatments. The study results suggest alogliptin is a effective treatment option for patients with inadequate blood sugar control.
Researchers develop model predicting disease outbreaks based on weather patterns and climate variability. The study shows an association between high temperature and daily incidence of cryptosporidiosis in Massachusetts, highlighting the need for better understanding of how climate affects disease spread.
A lifestyle intervention trial will determine optimal ways to translate research-developed programs to real-life settings in Chennai, India. The study aims to promote health behaviors, improved diet, weight loss, and increased physical activity to prevent diabetes in those at risk.
A pivotal Phase III clinical trial demonstrated that rivaroxaban was superior in preventing venous blood clots in patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. Rivaroxaban provided a statistically significant 31% relative risk reduction in total venous thromboembolism events compared to enoxaparin.
The L'Oreal USA Fellowships recognize women scientists conducting innovative research across various disciplines, including neuroscience, oceanography, and aerospace engineering. The recipients will receive $40,000 for independent scientific research and participate in professional development workshops.
Researchers found that Jewish and Arab teenagers who valued universalism and low power reported less violent behavior than their peers. In high-risk schools, these adolescents were relatively protected against engaging in violent behavior.
A new method for handling rape kit evidence developed by Jessica Voorhees Norris reduces DNA analysis time and improves sperm cell recovery rate by 100 percent. This could potentially reduce the nationwide backlog of unanalyzed samples in US forensic laboratories.
Researchers have identified a small molecule that can reversibly activate the human epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), leading to increased sodium flow and improved salt balance. This breakthrough opens avenues for developing drugs to treat conditions like hypertension, neonatal pulmonary edema, and renal salt wasting disorders.
The Miami Youth Development Project is a community-supported program that targets risky behaviors while promoting positive self-development. The research draws on Developmental Intervention Science, which aims to promote both short-term and long-term life course changes.
Researchers at Purdue University found that discrete skills like typing are controlled differently than continuous skills like scribbling. This discovery could have implications for physical therapy and humanoid robotics.
The University of Washington is leading a $6.25M project to develop an electronic Sherlock Holmes system for complex data analysis in the military. The system will integrate various types of sensor data to predict behavior and make decisions, addressing the challenge of handling high degrees of complexity and uncertainty.
Tanzania has made significant progress in reducing child mortality, with a 24% decline between 2000 and 2004. Key interventions such as increased funding for healthcare, decentralization of financing, and coverage of essential child-survival services have contributed to this success.
A clinical trial using IVUS technology found that Actos reduced the atherosclerotic burden in coronary arteries compared to glimepiride, and prevented progression. The study adds to the body of cardiovascular data for Actos, showing no evidence of increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
The George Institute is tracking global funding for R&D of neglected diseases in developing countries through a 5-year survey. The study aims to provide donors with an updated overview of investment gaps and prevent duplication of efforts.
Researchers at Iowa State University are developing an integrated system of thermochemical and catalytic technologies to efficiently produce ethanol from plant biomass. The new nanotechnology-based catalyst addresses selectivity and control issues in the old chemistry, enabling efficient production.
A study published in Contraception reports that the Standard Days Method brings new women to family planning, with over half having never used a method before. The method's effectiveness and ease of use led to increased contraceptive use among participants.
A new technique called Scan and Solve uses 3-D data analysis to predict stress points in objects like Michelangelo's David and human bones. The approach could aid engineers in developing protections for heavily used components, such as ancient artifacts and implants.
A recent survey reveals that 22% of new R&D centres will be located in China and 19% in India, as multinational firms tap into emerging economies' resources and markets. This trend raises significant challenges, including managing research and development in foreign countries.
Erin Lavik, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering at Yale University, was recognized as one of the Connecticut Technology Council's 2008 Women of Innovation. Her research focuses on developing new therapeutic approaches for spinal cord injury and retinal degeneration.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new anode coating strategy that significantly enhances the efficiency of solar energy power conversion. The breakthrough could lead to cheaper, more manufacturable, and easily implemented solar cells, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions.
A new study reveals that zigzagging provides the most efficient way for humans to ascend steep slopes, with a mathematical model supporting its advantages. The research suggests that this pattern of movement emerged as a compromise between energy efficiency and the physical limitations of human physiology.
Dr. Caroline Wagner discusses how self-organizing networks have transformed scientific research, enabling global collaboration among researchers with complementary skills and expertise. Her work emphasizes the importance of adaptability and flexibility in institutions and knowledge systems.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new type of sensor that uses T-rays to detect explosives and poisons. The technology guides the radiation along a specially designed surface, increasing detection sensitivity and potentially revolutionizing security screening.
The MIT Energy Initiative has partnered with ABB to develop green technologies and improve energy efficiency. The five-year, $5-million partnership will support research in areas like nanofluids, power electronics, and intelligent robotics.
The AAAS analysis reveals that Congress inserted nearly $4.5 billion in federal research and development earmarks in spending bills for fiscal year 2008. The earmarks totaled 2,526 projects, with $939 million allocated to non-defense projects and $3.5 billion to Defense Department projects.
The National Nanotechnology Initiative has released a new strategic plan aimed at achieving growing economic benefits and improved quality of life for US citizens. The plan reflects the consensus of participating agencies and provides guidance for investments and activities in nanotechnology R&D.
Researchers from IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS have discovered a method to stop and revert idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in animal models using pneumocytes transplantation. A clinical study will soon be conducted in humans to test the treatment.
Researchers found that prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to a preference for alcohol's taste and smell, making young people more likely to abuse it. Prenatal exposure also affects the development of the olfactory system, which enhances the sensory impact of alcohol.
The new NIST program will ensure that accredited laboratories perform tests on personal body armor in a reliable manner, reducing the risk of inaccurate or ineffective protection. Laboratories must submit applications and complete an assay process to demonstrate proficiency before receiving accreditation.
New software helps NASA's Spirit rover find a safe winter haven on Mars, called Von Braun. However, the path to get there is too treacherous, with no suitable bail out spots along the route. The software uses satellite images and rover images to map features on the surface.
Researchers at MIT have developed a system that uses beams of light to sort cells, allowing for precise separation based on specific cell characteristics. This technology could enable genetic screening, clinical testing, and cloning research with increased efficiency and reduced costs.
Carnegie Mellon's National Robotics Engineering Center has won a $14.4 million contract to develop an advanced, autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) for the US Army. The UGV will utilize lessons learned from the successful 'Crusher' platform and incorporate latest suspension, vehicle frame, and hybrid-electric drive technologies.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that a pedometer program that counts every step, regardless of duration, is more satisfying for people with diabetes. This approach led to increased walking and better adherence compared to structured goals.
Researchers found significant developmental variation in vulva development across nearly 50 species of roundworms. The results show that evolutionary changes are unidirectional and orderly, contradicting the idea of random evolution.