News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
Researchers at HortResearch have fine-tuned gene discovery to accurately determine fruit flavors and fragrances, enabling the creation of 'Nature Identical' compounds. Biofermentation techniques can produce desired compounds at low cost and environmental impact.
The US Department of Energy has released a research roadmap for developing cellulosic ethanol, a renewable and carbon-neutral fuel source. The plan aims to overcome challenges in producing low-cost, high-efficiency cellulosic ethanol from biomass.
The Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has won four prestigious R&D 100 Awards for its innovative technology advances, including a carbon-measuring instrument, high-efficiency solar cells, and neutron generators. These awards recognize the lab's efforts to enhance energy, economic, and national security.
The research aims to harness the body's natural regenerative abilities to heal limb wounds, using salamanders as a model. The goal is to develop techniques for restoring damaged or lost digits and limbs.
The Mount Sinai Global Health Center has received a $1 million grant to develop faculty and finance curriculum, conduct international research, and build partnerships with NGOs. The grant will help train medical students in global health and provide humanitarian aid support.
A new algorithm has been developed to improve mobile data retrieval efficiency, allowing users to access data more quickly without increasing power consumption. The technique uses parallel air channels to reduce channel switching and minimize battery drain.
Researchers will develop structural materials with chemical resistance, thermal stability, and fracture resistance, as well as transparent materials that are self-healing and anti-abrasive. The goal is to create lightweight, high-performance materials for ballistic resistant armor and vehicles.
A study of 97,000 Latin American deliveries found hospitals with high caesarean rates had higher rates of severe maternal illness, death, and antibiotic treatment. Rates of preterm delivery and newborn deaths also rose with increasing caesarean delivery rates.
A national survey of junior tennis coaches found that over half of parents have a positive influence on their children's development, but more than a third are harmful. Coaches identified excessive focus on winning, unrealistic expectations, and criticising as common problems, scoring them highly in terms of seriousness.
Researchers at Ohio University have successfully created the world's first synthetic nanoscale fractal molecule, which has potential applications in novel energy storage systems, photoelectric cells, and molecular batteries. The molecules are made of iron and ruthenium ions and form a hexagonal gasket.
NDRI researchers studied non-injecting heroin users transitioning to injection, finding it's not universal and influenced by individual characteristics and social networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
A study comparing therapeutic communities in the US, China, and Thailand will examine client and program characteristics to understand treatment effectiveness. The research aims to advance substance abuse treatment services globally by developing a standardized model.
The PACT software provides a framework that protects metadata while enabling semantic interoperation and sharing of information. It automatically regulates access to data, preserving security while allowing permitted access.
Researchers explored novel oil traits through genetic engineering to enhance biofuel performance. They identified a 'soybean event' with high oleic acid levels, which reduced saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Meanwhile, hydrogenated biodiesel fuels showed promise in reducing NOx emissions in light-duty diesel engines
Researchers have developed a method to rapidly diagnose bioterrorism-related diseases by analyzing gene patterns in white blood cells. This technology, which uses mathematical modeling tools, can identify specific changes in gene expression within 2 hours of exposure, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
The team's collaborative efforts led to near real-time determination of upper atmospheric density, improving geostationary satellite orbits. The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration praised this as the 'greatest improvement in atmospheric drag modeling over the last 30 years'.
Research reveals that reading and behavior problems are intertwined in boys, primarily due to shared environmental factors, not genetics. The study found that targeting either reading or behavior issues during early childhood can lead to changes in both behaviors.
Dr. Culbertson is developing universally applicable methods for detecting and identifying proteins and peptides in very small sample volumes without tagging molecules. His goal is to miniaturize chemical analysis instrumentation for point-of-care diagnostics, improving disease detection and treatment.
Minister Gehrer addresses key challenges in European R&D, including the timing of the new Framework Programme and the need for a strategy to stimulate innovation. She also emphasizes the importance of reducing red tape and promoting entrepreneurship and risk-taking through life-long learning.
A University of Kentucky researcher has identified bioactive fragments of complement C3 and C5 as causal markers of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progression. These components stimulate the development of wet AMD, and their presence in drusen may indicate high risk for progression.
The collaboration aims to develop and field-test individual lessons/modules that can be incorporated within courses or used to support entire courses. The project's deliverables will benefit digital library users with improved understanding of those who build the next generation of digital library systems.
The US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has established five Regional Visualization and Analytics Centers to improve homeland security. Four universities will focus on developing techniques, tools, and collaboration to analyze large multimedia databases and extract relevant information.
Researchers will develop methods to derive and exploit information from diverse data forms, link this information with stored knowledge and analytical reasoning practices, and provide cognitive readiness support. The Penn State team will also apply a cognitive science approach to understanding visual tool usage, enhancing the role of t...
The Office of Naval Research has developed a technology that allows binoculars to transmit digital voice over long distances, up to five nautical miles. LightSpeed can also be used for communication between ships at sea and platforms in the air and on the ground.
A new study emphasizes the importance of standardized training for physicians during patient handoffs, highlighting the need for face-to-face interactions and effective communication to prevent medical errors. The researchers suggest that investing in additional physician training could be a cost-effective way to improve patient safety.
A European study found pramipexole significantly reduces RLS severity and improves quality of life, with notable improvements in Vitality and Bodily Pain scores. The treatment showed efficacy using two measurement criteria: IRLS and CGI-I scale.
Bar-Ness received the IEEE Communications Society Publications Exemplary Service Award for establishing and serving as editor of IEEE Communications Letters. The journal allows researchers to publish brief papers in a short turnaround time, enabling rapid knowledge sharing.
Brandeis University physicists Meyer and Redfield have been honored by the American Physical Society for their pioneering contributions to liquid crystals and biological physics. Their research has led to significant advancements in technologies such as LCD displays, with over 50,000 new liquid crystal materials developed.
A new UCLA study suggests that colonoscopy results do not reassure Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients, contradicting previous beliefs. The study found limited diagnostic value of colonoscopy in diagnosing IBS for patients under age 50.
The Florida State University magnet lab has collaborated with Keithley Instruments to develop a more accurate system for measuring extremely small currents and voltages. The new AC and DC Precision Current Source with Nanovoltmeter will help engineers create breakthrough consumer products and medical devices.
Brandeis will develop a program in quantitative biology to understand biological functions. The university will hire a new faculty member and provide funding for courses, seminars, and instrumentation.
The CD4 Initiative aims to create easy-to-use devices for measuring CD4+ T-lymphocytes in HIV+ patients, addressing the high cost and complexity of current technologies. The project will bring together industry know-how and scientific creativity to develop simple, rapid, and affordable tests.
A team of experts, including those from the NIH and the US Department of Justice, identified 850 of the 2,749 reported missing after the 9/11 attacks using DNA analysis. The panel's recommendations include improving forensic DNA typing systems and designing processes to test novel identification procedures.
Dr. Cavanagh's donation honors the contributions of Paul M. Bass and W. Plack Carr Jr., who made his past achievements possible. Dr. Cavanagh's research involves developing new contact lenses with improved oxygen flow, impacting millions worldwide.
The AAAS Science Journalism Awards honored outstanding science writers for their reporting on global warming, cystic fibrosis treatment disparities, and other scientific topics. Elizabeth Kolbert won the magazine award for her series on climate change, while Atul Gawande was recognized for his story on cystic fibrosis treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a heretofore unknown role for the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor INK4C in medulloblastoma development. The study found that Ink4c inactivation cooperates with mutations in Patched to stimulate medulloblastoma formation, even when p53 is intact.
Researchers developed nanorobot fabrication to build extremely small sensors, improving detection capabilities for aircraft carriers and mini-UAVs. The new technology is also being considered for breast cancer detection, enabling non-contact examinations.
Researchers develop wireless public transport network protocol allowing vehicles to create a communication network. The system can learn from user behavior and adapt to traffic conditions, providing a more attractive option for commuters.
A new report reveals women in 'male' careers still face significant barriers, including institutional sexism and lack of female scientist role models. The study found only one in ten women work in research and development jobs, compared to 60% of men. To address this, the report recommends establishing a platform for female scientists,...
The university will use the grant to enhance its Clinical Scholars Program, which supports young investigators in a three-year educational and training program. The initiative aims to create an environment for career development of young faculty in clinical research.
Researchers at MIT created electronic maps of cellphone use in Graz, Austria, tracking tens of thousands of people using anonymous data. The project showcases the dynamics of a city in real time, opening up new possibilities for urban studies and planning.
The Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research aims to recognize and reward innovative contributions to human health, as identified by a six-member international selection committee. The first Award will be presented in September 2006, with a $100,000 prize and global recognition for the recipient.
The Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute has funded 12 projects to improve healthcare delivery, governance, and policy formulation. The projects aim to enhance the collaboration between hospitals, general practice, and community care organisations to provide better health outcomes for Australians.
A novel artificial kidney utilizing nanotechnology may eliminate dialysis needs for millions worldwide. The HNF system features a wearable design with double the filtration rate of conventional hemodialysis.
Researchers at VCU demonstrated that a cytokine called interferon gamma can induce the death of developing mast cells in a mouse model system. This finding may lead to the development of new treatments for allergy and inflammatory responses in diseases such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and heart disease.
The ACS Honors 2005 Heroes of Chemistry, who developed treatments for psychosis, myeloid leukemia, and dental disease. They also created cleaner gasoline and materials for smaller computer chips.
SINTEL aims to provide automated, real-time situational information for ship crews, including threat assessment and decision aids. The lab will test and analyze threat scenarios in the NY Harbor environment using a combination of E/O and IR sensor modeling systems.
Dr. Jon Meilstrup and Dr. Mel Stratmeyer received the Presidential Recognition Award from AIUM for their intense participation, teaching, and leadership roles in the organization. The entire AIUM staff also received a surprise award for outstanding contributions to advancing ultrasound in medicine.
The Jefferson Lab FEL has been recognized as one of the top 100 most technologically significant products of 2005. It provides a scaleable path for high laser output power and enables new applications in materials science, national security, and more.
The Eye Saver provides 40 percent more surface illumination on work and reading surfaces, reducing eyestrain by lowering glare. This innovative light bulb is suitable for people of all ages and particularly useful for those afflicted with age-related macular degeneration.
A team of scientists from K-State and Brookhaven National Laboratory has developed a compact, high-resolution gamma ray detector that is cheaper to produce than existing devices. The invention, which uses a patented design by McGregor and McNeil, can be used for homeland security purposes, medical imaging, and radiation monitoring.
Scientists at IGER have created a genetic map of pearl millet DNA, enabling the rapid development of downy mildew-resistant plants. This approach allows for faster breeding techniques than traditional methods, benefiting farmers in Africa and India.
ORNL's national lab-leading total increases to 122 with three new R&D 100 awards. The innovations include the compact and energy-efficient SEMCO Revolution rooftop air conditioner and SensArray Integrated Wafer for precise semiconductor temperature control.
The Rutgers, NEI Corp., and Indian materials center partnership aims to develop nanoparticle-infused materials for various industries. The researchers will explore ways to use nanosized particles to increase the wear-resistance of metals, ceramics, and protective coatings.
A new study developed a predictive profile of children likely to respond to Pivotal Response Training (PRT), a child-directed behavioral intervention. The study successfully matched autistic children with an appropriate therapy, leading to significant gains in language skills, play skills, and social behaviors.
A magnitude 7.2-7.5 earthquake on the Puente Hills fault could result in 3,000-18,000 deaths and up to $250 billion in property damage, according to a study by the USGS and USC. The disaster would be the costliest in U.S. history due to the fault's location under Los Angeles County and adjacent areas.
Research reveals children's increasing recognition of emotional satisfaction from following rules and considering future consequences. By age 7, kids acknowledge that willpower makes people feel good, even if they don't get what they want.
The study found that classification of research and development in the services sector has become increasingly difficult due to blurring lines between manufacturing and services. The researchers make recommendations for improved definitions and revised wording of questions to improve accuracy.
PNNL's ecological dock design reduces harm to nearshore marine life, while a new system tracks juvenile salmon behavior, aiding restoration of critical habitats. The lab also developed a cost-effective nanomaterial to remove mercury from industrial wastes, significantly reducing production costs.
The research aims to determine a biological sample's origin by identifying markers, such as metal and protein changes. The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate funds the project.