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Life Sciences

Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.

447,757 articles | 2542 topics

Health and Medicine

Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.

431,843 articles | 751 topics

Social Sciences

Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.

260,756 articles | 745 topics

Physical Sciences

Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.

257,913 articles | 1552 topics

Applied Sciences and Engineering

Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.

225,386 articles | 998 topics

Scientific Community

Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.

193,043 articles | 157 topics

Space Sciences

Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.

29,662 articles | 175 topics

Research Methods

Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.

21,889 articles | 139 topics

Mathematics

Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.

3,023 articles | 113 topics

Rice, Northwestern find new ways to image, characterize unique material

Scientists at Rice and Northwestern universities have developed a method to image and characterize 2D borophene crystals, which can exhibit unique lattice configurations that determine their characteristics. The research could help manufacturers incorporate borophene into products with desirable electronic, thermal, optical properties.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Study: How will tropical mammals react to rising temperatures?

A study of 400,000 camera-trap records from 36 mammal species on three continents found that tropical mammals respond to changing local temperatures and other species nearby. Temperatures did not increase drastically overall during the study period, but micro habitat use changed over time due to temperature fluctuations.

'Deep learning' casts wide net for novel 2D materials

Rice University engineers employ neural networks to rapidly model the characteristics of new 2D materials, significantly reducing computational time. The technique enables accurate predictions with minimal data, facilitating bottom-up design and discovery.

Rusted root: Weedy rice repeatedly evolves 'cheater' root traits

Researchers found that weedy rice has evolved a root growth strategy that minimizes below-ground contact with other plants, allowing it to exploit the nutrient-sharing soil environment of rice fields. This 'cheater' root trait enables weedy rice to outcompete cultivated rice for essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous.

Digital device overload linked to obesity risk

Research from Rice University links digital device overload to obesity risk, finding media multitasking associated with increased susceptibility to food temptations and lack of self-control. The study suggests a possible link between media multitasking, higher body mass index, and greater percentage of body fat.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New 'blue-green' solution for recycling world's batteries

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries using an environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvent. The solvent successfully extracted over 90% of cobalt and significant amounts of lithium from powdered compounds and used batteries, making it a promising approach to curtail hars...

Odd reaction creates a stir in the lab

Researchers at Rice University discovered that PTFE stir bars react with chemicals in an unexpected way, affecting the modification of nanotubes. This discovery highlights the importance of choosing inert materials in laboratory settings.

Five new frog species from Madagascar

Scientists have named five new species of tiny frogs found across the island of Madagascar, belonging to the 'narrow-mouthed' frog family. These miniature frogs are remarkable for their extreme miniaturization, with some species reaching lengths as small as 7.7 mm.

3D printed tissues may keep athletes in action

Researchers at Rice University have created 3D-printed scaffolds that can mimic the physical characteristics of osteochondral tissue, a hard bone beneath a compressible layer of cartilage. The scaffolds are designed to promote healing and potentially treat common sports injuries.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Matter waves and quantum splinters

Researchers at Rice University and Austria's Vienna University of Technology shatter ultracold BECs, revealing two distinct phenomena depending on the frequency of shaking. The team observes grains of varying sizes in some experiments, attributed to quantum correlations that challenge standard theories.

Chemicals induce dipoles to damp plasmons

Researchers at Rice University discovered that molecules on the surface of gold nanorods induce dipoles, scattering enough energy to dampen plasmon signals. This finding enhances catalysis applications and challenges previous explanations for signal loss via plasmon damping.

Bacteria bide their time when antibiotics attack

Researchers at Rice University suggest that fluctuating growth rates of bacteria can increase the time it takes to eradicate a bacterial infection, giving the surviving bugs a better chance to develop resistance. This approach could lead to more accurate dosing and improved treatment outcomes.

Grow a better jawbone in your ribs

Researchers developed a technique to grow live bone in the rib area using 3D-printed bioreactors and stem cells. The new method aims to replace current reconstruction techniques that use harvested bone tissues from different areas, promoting natural healing powers.

Defects help nanomaterial soak up more pollutant in less time

Rice University researchers developed a novel molecular sieve that can remove perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) from polluted water more efficiently and effectively than current technologies. The nanomaterial features random, large-pore defects that improve its adsorption capacity and fast-adsorption kinetics.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Rice U. study highlights danger of vitamin B12 deficiency

A Rice University study found that a B12-deficient diet harms nematodes' health, reducing their ability to metabolize branched-chain amino acids and leading to mitochondrial damage. This increase in mitochondrial toxicity also enhances resistance to multiple stressors and pathogens.

When green 'fixes' actually increase the carbon footprint

A study by University of Pennsylvania sociologists found that high-income residents moving into tech-enabled neighborhoods increase carbon emissions, displacing low-income populations. The research highlights the need for affordable housing and sustainable planning to counteract gentrification's negative effects.

Embryos' signals take multiple paths

Researchers found that stem cells are sensitive to the speed of signaling molecule delivery, not just its concentration. This discovery highlights the dynamic interactions between morphogens and cells during embryonic development, allowing for more precise control over cell fates and potentially leading to new ways to drive cellular di...

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Looks matter when it comes to success in STEM, study shows

A Rice University study reveals that students who look more racially stereotypical are more likely to persist in STEM fields, while those who do not fit the mold face higher drop-out rates. Asian students who look more like their racial group are more likely to complete a STEM degree, but black students who do so are less likely.

Step right up for bigger 2D sheets

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theory explaining why monolayer crystal islands align on vicinal substrates, allowing for large-scale growth of 2D materials like graphene and h-BN. The 'digital filter' mechanism helps to overcome small indentations in the steps, enabling seamless merging of the crystals.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Embryos' signaling proteins go with the flow

Researchers discovered that the WNT signaling pathway is more dynamic than previously thought, with different cell types responding differently to the same signals. They found that cells can tune the dynamics of this pathway to perform different functions in different contexts.

Be yourself at work -- It's healthier and more productive

A new study from Rice University found that people with non-visible stigmas, such as sexual orientation or health problems, who live openly at work are happier and more productive. Workers who expressed their stigmas experienced decreased job anxiety, improved job satisfaction, and increased commitment to their position.

2 Rice faculty members awarded Sloan Research Fellowships

Two Rice University faculty members, Mark Torres and Ming Yi, have been selected as 2019 Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellows for their work in ocean sciences and physics. The fellowships provide $70,000 in funding to support fundamental research by early-career scientists.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Dose of vitamin C helps gold nanowires grow

Rice University scientists have developed a method to produce valuable gold nanowires from short particles using vitamin C. The process, which is fully controllable and reversible, allows for the production of nanowires of any desired length, making them suitable for sensing, diagnostic, imaging, and therapeutic applications.

Kaden Hazzard wins NSF CAREER Award

Rice University physicist Kaden Hazzard has won a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to create algorithms that aim to advance the creation of novel quantum matter. He will investigate new ways to simulate states of matter at extreme cold temperatures, as close as possible to absolute zero.

Can we trust scientific discoveries made using machine learning?

Genevera Allen, a Rice University statistician, emphasizes the need for machine learning systems to question their predictions and assess uncertainty. She argues that current ML techniques often rely on uncorroborated data-driven discoveries, leading to reproducibility issues in fields like precision medicine.

Shaping light lets 2D microscopes capture 4D data

Rice University researchers have developed a method to capture 4D data using 2D microscopes, enabling scientists to visualize molecules' locations and movements in living cells. The technique uses custom phase masks to manipulate light and separate spatial and temporal information.

Better red than dread: Barrier keeps batteries safe

Rice University researchers have created a new method to detect and mitigate lithium dendrite growth, which can cause battery failure. A layer of red phosphorus acts as a signal to shut down charging when dendrites approach the separator.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Laser-induced graphene gets tough, with help

Researchers at Rice University have developed composites of laser-induced graphene that can be used for wearable electronics, heat therapy, water treatment, anti-icing, and antimicrobial surfaces. The new composites were created by infusing LIG with materials like plastic, rubber, and wood, and show improved mechanical robustness.

Lefty or righty molecules lend a hand to material structures

Researchers at Rice University have created chiral polymers that can enable materials with unique properties, such as optical and sensing capabilities. The discovery could lead to the creation of metamaterials with tunable properties, including tough-but-flexible compounds with distinct functions.

Working proteins make good use of frustration

Researchers surveyed known enzyme structures and found that active sites often have conflicting instructions, allowing for a balance between stability and functionality. This 'extended frustration' extends beyond the first shell of amino acids, supporting catalytic ability and enabling enzymes to modify target molecules efficiently.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Rice U. lab adds porous envelope to aluminum plasmonics

Scientists at Rice University have developed a new method to create porous envelopes around light-powered aluminum nanocatalysts using pseudomorphic replacement. This process enables the creation of greener catalysts that use solar energy and are made from abundant metals, reducing energy burden and environmental impact. The study demo...

Nitrogen gets in the fast lane for chemical synthesis

Rice University scientists have developed a novel method to incorporate nitrogen into molecules, bypassing traditional multi-step processes. This breakthrough enables the quick and efficient production of valuable alpha-aminoketones, which are crucial for drug design and synthesis.

Cancer cells' plasticity makes them harder to stop

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a direct connection between gene regulation and metabolic pathways in cancer cells, enabling them to adapt to hostile environments. The study's findings reveal three stable metabolic states that cancer cells can adopt to evade therapies.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Nano-infused ceramic could report on its own health

Rice University researchers have developed a nano-infused ceramic that can act as a sensor for structures, monitoring their health and reporting damage. The ceramic's unique electrical properties make it suitable for self-sensing applications in buildings, bridges, and aircraft.

Quality of overall diet is key to lowering type 2 diabetes risk

Research from the Singapore Chinese Health Study found that high-quality diets rich in plant-based foods and low in red meat and sugar-sweetened beverages were inversely associated with risk of diabetes. Participants who followed these healthy dietary patterns had a 16-29% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

No sweat? That's an issue for home-schooled children

A Rice University study of home-schooled children aged 10-17 found that many fall short of daily exercise goals despite participating in organized activities. The researchers recommend increasing unstructured physical activity time to ensure children meet their fitness needs. Parents are encouraged to provide more opportunities for out...

Lettuce show you how to restore oil-soaked soil

Researchers at Rice University have fine-tuned a pyrolysis technique to remove petroleum contaminants from soil, restoring its fertility. The method uses gentle heat to preserve the soil's essential clays, eliminating 99.9% of total petroleum hydrocarbons and 94.5% of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Fiber composition in rice coproducts revealed in Illinois study

A University of Illinois study characterizes the chemical composition of fiber in rice and rice coproducts, which could lead to diet interventions for improved digestibility. The primary carbohydrates found were arabinoxylans, with varying ratios between arabinose and xylose influencing functionality.

Earth's continental nurseries discovered beneath mountains

Researchers at Rice University found that arclogites, leftover dross from volcanic activity, are responsible for the missing niobium in continental crust. This discovery provides crucial information about how continents form and grow, shedding light on Earth's history and making it more livable.

Plasmonic pioneers fire away in fight over light

Researchers at Rice University argue that photoluminescence, not Raman scattering, is responsible for the remarkable light-emitting properties of metal nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in solar-cell efficiency and the development of new biosensors.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

LGB and other sexual minorities face significant health disparities

Researchers found that LGB individuals are more likely to experience drug and alcohol use disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, and cardiovascular disease. The study used time-varying effect modeling to analyze data from over 30,000 participants and found age-specific disparities in health outcomes.

Worms can process rice straw, scientists discover

Scientists discovered that earthworms efficiently process rice straw, increasing its fertility and preventing the burning of crop residues. This method reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves soil health, making it a more sustainable alternative to current practices.

Planetary collision that formed the moon made life possible on Earth

A study by Rice University suggests that a planetary collision formed the moon and delivered life-essential elements to Earth. The research found that Earth's carbon and nitrogen content is consistent with a moon-forming impact involving a volatile-bearing, Mars-sized planet with a sulfur-rich core.

High-protein rice brings value, nutrition

Researchers developed high-protein rice lines with increased yield and improved grain quality, providing a solution to global protein deficiencies. The 'Frontière' line has a 53% higher protein content than original rice varieties, making it suitable for various applications such as specialty food products.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Feds, states can help biochar live up to its soil-saving potential

A study by researchers at Rice University shows that well-designed policy can support the use of biochar to enhance agricultural productivity, sequester carbon, and preserve valuable soil. The federal government has existing programs that promote biochar adoption, but more investment is needed in large-scale production.

Next up: Ultracold simulators of super-dense stars

Physicists at Rice University have successfully cooled a neutral plasma using lasers, a technique that could lead to new insights into exotic states of matter and potentially even breakthroughs in quantum computing. The achievement sets the stage for simulators of super-dense stars like Jupiter and white dwarf stars.

Cancer cells steer a jagged path

Researchers at Rice University and the Duke University School of Medicine have identified JAG1 as a key player in tumor mechanics. The study shows how cancer stem cells differentiate within tumors and spread through the interaction of JAG1 with a signaling pathway, enabling metastasis.

Mighty morphing materials take complex shapes

Researchers create a rubbery, shape-shifting material that can morph into complex shapes at room temperature and change back when heated. The material shows promise for soft robots and biomedical applications requiring pre-programmed shapes at body temperature.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Switch-in-a-cell electrifies life

Rice University scientists develop synthetic protein switches to control electron flow, enabled by chemical triggers. The discovery enables custom-designed switches for applications such as living sensors and electronically controlled metabolic pathways.