News on R&D across science and industry. Covers R&D awards, applied studies, quantum institutes, and university research initiatives.
A study of 12,000 Canadian respondents aged 65+ found that socially independent older adults born in Canada are most satisfied when living solo, while socially dependent immigrants who live alone experience lower life satisfaction. Personality-based social dispositions play a key role in how older adults feel about their living arrange...
The NYU Abu Dhabi team has developed a new type of dual-faced membrane that effectively purifies water from contaminants and boasts strong antibacterial properties. The microwave-mediated synthesis method allows precise control over the membrane's properties, enabling efficient removal of pollutants.
Vilas Shinde, an MSU assistant professor, has received a $1.13 million NASA grant to develop a new simulation tool for designing hypersonic vehicles. The project aims to improve the accuracy of boundary layer transition predictions, crucial for aerodynamic design and space exploration.
A recent study found that cerebral palsy adults have a very high occurrence of pain, with 86.3% experiencing nociceptive pain and 45.8% experiencing nociplastic pain. Accurate identification of pain type and source is critical for proper treatment.
Researchers at Auburn University are developing a new instrument to characterize respiratory aerosols, which can transport viruses over longer distances. The technique uses fluorescence to analyze particles sensitive to pH, viscosity, and phase state.
Researchers have created nanoparticles that can release drugs in multiple stages, allowing for more precise targeting of specific sites in the body. This technology has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of therapeutics and reduce side effects, paving the way for new treatments and improved patient care.
Researchers are developing a framework to combine AI and human intelligence in process safety systems, aiming to enhance safety and efficiency. The study identifies challenges and benefits of using Intelligence Augmentation (IA) and proposes strategies for effective implementation to minimize risks.
Researchers created RoboFabric, a wearable fabric that can stiffen on demand for medical applications and soft robotics. The technology reduces muscle activity by up to 40% when assisting joints while lifting loads.
A UCLA-led team created a machine-learning model that can accurately predict short-term CRRT survival, providing a data-driven tool for clinical decision-making. The study aims to improve patient outcomes and resource use by serving as a basis for future clinical trials.
African American woman breast cancer survivor talking about her experience with breast cancer and the impact of breast cancer on women's lives. The American Cancer Society is a leading organization in cancer research, patient services, and advocacy.
A study by Pusan National University researchers found that repeated item development training enhances faculty members' accuracy in predicting and adjusting item difficulty levels, leading to better educational outcomes. The training improved the quality of MCQ assessments in medical education.
David Sarlah joins Rice University as a CPRIT-funded professor to contribute to the university's cancer research, focusing on natural product synthesis and total synthesis for cancer biology. His lab aims to streamline production of compounds used in cancer therapy.
Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a mechanical computer that uses a complex structure of rigid polymer cubes to store, retrieve and erase data. The system has reversible features allowing users to control when data editing is permitted.
A team at NICT set a new world record for data-rate transmission in a standard optical fiber, reaching 402 Tb/s and increasing the aggregate bandwidth to 37.6 THz. The demonstration used novel technologies to access new wavelength regions, enabling future optical communication infrastructure to meet growing demands.
The WVU researchers developed a non-invasive, at-home sleep apnea detection device that uses artificial intelligence technology to measure oxygen levels in the blood. Early detection can help prevent worsening of underlying comorbid conditions and reduce healthcare costs, according to Dr. Sunil Sharma.
A new version of the OPTIMADE standard enables easier access to large materials databases, facilitating AI modeling and prediction of material properties. The international collaboration involves over 30 institutions worldwide, aiming to advance materials research and development.
University of Texas at Dallas researchers develop AI model that can automatically reroute electricity in milliseconds to prevent power outages. The system uses machine learning to map complex relationships between entities in a power distribution network, enabling faster response times than human-controlled processes.
A platform called Open-ST enables scientists to reconstruct gene expression in cells within a tissue in three dimensions, capturing molecular and (sub)cellular structures. The platform was used to study cell types at subcellular resolution in tissues from mice brains, tumor tissue, and healthy lymph nodes, providing insights into cance...
Researchers investigate the effects of space travel on astronauts' eye health, specifically fluid shift and its relation to Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS). They examine potential countermeasures, such as lower body negative pressure, to combat microgravity-induced changes in ocular perfusion pressure.
Researchers are developing solutions to recycle solar panels and recover strategic metals like silver and copper, reducing waste and creating jobs.
Researchers present a novel protocol structure for achieving global/semi-global finite-time consensus in multi-agent systems. The protocols use a hyperbolic tangent function to guarantee consensus and provide explicit calculation of settling time, making them practical for real-world applications.
Research from the University of South Australia found that people with knee OA unconsciously believe exercise is dangerous, despite medical advice. The study developed a tool to detect and evaluate these implicit beliefs, suggesting they can be a better predictor of actual behavior than reported attitudes.
Dr. Jeetain Mittal's NIH grant will support multiscale computational models investigating phase separation in biology, particularly heterochromatin formation and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. The research aims to elucidate the molecular origins of phase separation using innovative models and methods.
A novel mechanical metamaterial, 'Chaco,' exhibits history-dependent behavior, allowing it to remember the sequence of actions performed on it. This property enables potential applications in memory storage and robotics.
A study of 370 patients undergoing elective surgery found that those with higher levels of awareness about anesthesia had better understanding of general and local anesthesia. Patients who underwent surgeries related to eyes, nose, and throat scored higher on the knowledge test due to limited sources of information.
Dr. Ifana Mahbub and her team are developing far-field wireless power transfer technology to enable drones to recharge without landing. The technology uses phased-array antennas to steer electromagnetic waves along a targeted path, minimizing signal loss.
Dr. George Bray's paper tracks the development of obesity research over 100 years, from early explorations to modern medication interventions. The study highlights the chronic and relapsing nature of obesity as a disease process.
A team of researchers has developed a new human implantable, wireless, health monitoring electronic suture system to accurately monitor the recovery process. The system combines a medical needle and thread to close wounds while performing functions as an electronic device.
Researchers have introduced iso-propagation vortices, offering a solution to increasing information processing capacity while overcoming traditional vortex beam limitations. IPVs exhibit OAM-independent propagation, allowing for consistent beam size during free-space propagation.
Researchers found that longer sprint interval training protocols, such as SIE20, outperform shorter protocols like SIE10 in increasing peripheral oxidative metabolism. This study's findings suggest that less-than-15-minute exercise regimens can provide significant health benefits.
Scientists have developed a functional model of thoracic aortic aneurysm using human cells in laboratory rats, offering new avenues for drug development and effective screening. The model successfully mimics dilation of the human aorta and has potential applications for treating this potentially fatal condition.
Researchers have developed new optical tweezers that can stably trap large and irregularly shaped particles using contour-tracking technology. This advancement could expand light-based trapping to a wider range of objects, including groups of cells, bacteria, and microplastics.
A new soft multi-electrode system for electroretinography has been developed to overcome the limitations of traditional devices. The system uses a commercially available soft disposable contact lens with gold mesh electrodes, allowing for simultaneous measurement of electrical potentials from different regions of the retina. This innov...
A Swansea University-led study investigates the impact of omega-3 supplements on children's behavior, mood, and mental wellbeing. The research aims to identify which children may benefit most from supplements and how they can be best identified.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are working on a decision-support system to help clinicians navigate conflicting clinical trials. The system will use artificial intelligence to analyze study results and provide recommendations, aiming to improve patient outcomes and inform treatment decisions.
A large-scale study revealed a profound link between dietary patterns and brain health, with a balanced diet associated with better mental health, superior cognitive functions and higher grey matter in the brain. The researchers suggest that gradual dietary modifications can lead to healthier food choices and improved wellbeing.
Researchers at PNNL have developed a simple, water-based solution to separate and purify rare earth elements from e-waste. The new process uses the unique properties of metals to form solids at different rates, resulting in nearly pure minerals recovered in hours rather than days.
A rapidly spreading virus is attacking cacao trees in Ghana, resulting in harvest losses of between 15-50%. Researchers have developed a new strategy to combat the spread of the disease using mathematical data to determine safe planting distances for vaccinated trees.
A new study published in npj Mental Health Research reveals three distinct language comprehension mechanisms in autistic children, challenging the common linear trajectory of language development. The findings support the idea that intensive language therapy should start earlier and highlight the importance of improving language compre...
Researchers have developed a pressure-alternating shoe insole that provides periods of rest to the soft tissues, thereby reducing the risk of diabetic foot ulcers. This innovative technology aims to mitigate the risk of complications from poor circulation and foot sores.
The innovative Integrated Virtual Care (IVC) program successfully connected residents with family physicians in Renfrew County, addressing the rural shortage of primary care providers. Over 2,800 unique patient appointments were conducted, with 70% done virtually, offering comprehensive team-based primary care.
A new prediction strategy helps investors forecast myopic marketing spending up to a year in advance, allowing for portfolio optimization and improved returns. The study found that using this method yields additional 6.44% returns over four years, compared to existing methods.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a process to create solid sulfide electrolytes with world-high sodium ion conductivity and glass electrolytes with high reduction resistance. This breakthrough enhances the practical use of all-solid-state sodium batteries.
Researchers developed a compact swept-source Raman spectroscopy system for identifying both chemical and biological materials. The portable system addresses limitations of bulky dispersive Raman spectrometers, providing accurate results comparable to conventional systems.
The digital twin of a railway wireless network uses scenario modeling, radio wave propagation characterization and integrated operation platforms to improve safety and efficiency. The study introduces key technologies such as ray tracing and AI-based super-resolution to achieve accurate deterministic modeling of wireless channels.
Scientists have successfully converted methane (CH4) into formic acid (HCOOH) using oxygen (O2) at room temperature through an electrochemical process. The high-pressure electro-Fenton strategy achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 81.4% with an ultra-low cathodic overpotential of 0.38 V.
Researchers at University of Missouri are developing software that allows drones to fly independently, perceiving and interacting with their environment while achieving specific goals. This technology has the potential to assist in mapping and monitoring applications, such as 3D or 4D advanced imagery for disaster response.
Researchers have proposed an innovative quantum algorithm that effectively solves combinatorial optimization problems with constraints in a short time. The pVSQA algorithm uses a quantum device to generate a variational quantum state and transform infeasible solutions into feasible ones, achieving near-optimal performance.
Researchers are exploring engineered geothermal systems and innovative drilling technologies to unlock superhot rock energy. However, significant gaps in research and development need to be addressed to achieve temperatures over 375°C.
Researchers are evaluating two prototype placebo rings in a study to determine their safety and usability for women. The goal is to inform the final design of a dual-purpose ring that can prevent both HIV and unplanned pregnancy for a month at a time.
Researchers developed a novel machine learning-based depth estimation technique for satellite-derived bathymetry, improving accuracy in coastal regions with unique characteristics. The model demonstrated generalizability and potential for enhancements through incorporation of additional seabed spatial data.
A new AI tool can predict which breast cancer patients are at risk of chronic arm swelling after surgery and radiotherapy. The tool, developed by international researchers, uses machine learning algorithms to analyze patient data and provides easily understandable explanations for doctors and patients.
The T2oFu method offers a new approach to quantitative phase and polarization-sensitive tomography, enabling high-contrast images of muscle fibers with implications for diagnosing skeletal myopathies. The technique has been successfully tested on heart tissue samples with cardiac amyloidosis, providing promising results.
Researchers at UNIST have unveiled a new principle of motion in liquid crystals, where objects can move in a directed manner by changing their sizes periodically. The discovery has far-reaching implications for the development of miniature robots and advances research in complex fluids.
Researchers developed RedirectedDoors+ to overcome VR door-opening challenges, providing users with realistic haptic feedback and guiding them around real walls. The system has been successfully tested in various environments, reducing physical space size by up to 50%.
A team of researchers at Tohoku University's Advanced Institute for Materials Research has made a breakthrough in understanding the relationship between catalyst structures and their reactions. By studying the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) in Tin-Oxide-based catalysts, they uncovered the active surface species responsi...
The new skin demonstrates excellent mechanical performance, self-adaptive camouflage capabilities, and long-term stability. It can quickly recognize and match the background by modulating optical signals in response to external stimuli.
Researchers have developed a new compound using MXenes, which can be used to create lightweight and efficient telecommunication antennas. This innovation has the potential to transform satellite communication and replace traditional manufacturing methods.
Rice researchers developed a rapid and accurate point-of-care malaria test that is 12 times faster and easier to use than traditional tests. The device can detect asymptomatic infections and predict disease outcomes, leading to early identification and treatment of severe cases.
Researchers developed an AI-driven lab called Fast-Cat that uses artificial intelligence to provide in-depth analyses of catalytic reactions. The tool conducts high-temperature gas-liquid reactions and analyzes results to determine how different variables affect the outcome of each experiment.