Articles tagged with Rice
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A new study found that male professors gave over twice as many talks as female professors at top 50 US universities during the 2013-2014 academic year. Despite equal levels of perceived importance and acceptance rates for speaking invitations, male speakers dominated departmental talks.
A recent study by World Weather Attribution found that climate change increased the likelihood of extreme rainfall events like Hurricane Harvey. The research suggests that storms like Harvey are now three times more likely in today's climate.
Researchers found individual prey had a roughly 40% likelihood of being consumed regardless of habitat complexity, but predators preferred certain prey in open environments. Habitat complexity dampened selection and equalized predation risk among active and sedentary prey.
A study by Rice University researchers found that soil charcoal behaves differently than other forms of soil carbon, becoming more patchy and concentrated in low-lying areas. Charcoal's benefits as a soil amendment include reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide and improving crop productivity.
Researchers at Rice University have created an asphalt-based sorbent that can capture more than twice its weight in carbon dioxide from natural gas, outperforming traditional methods. The new material features the selectivity of amines but requires no thermal source and has negligible degradation over multiple testing cycles.
Rice University statisticians developed a method to integrate neuroimaging scans to identify patients at high risk of continued seizures before surgery. The study found a subgroup with 5.8 times greater odds of postoperative seizures due to differences in brain networks.
Rice University physicists have successfully created a previously unseen state of matter, the excitonic insulator, which could be used to form component of topological quantum computer. The device uses braided qubits and has inherent topological signatures that could enable fault-tolerant qubits.
Researchers at Rice University found that purified carbon nanotubes enhance wheatgrass growth by up to 13% in water solutions. However, contaminated particles can concentrate toxins and hinder plant development. The study highlights the need for understanding nanomaterials as part of a system rather than in isolation.
Scientists discovered a rare form of nitrogen gas in Earth's atmosphere, which is more abundant than expected. The discovery provides clues about the composition of life-supporting planets and their atmospheres.
A clinical study validated the effectiveness of NEST360°'s low-cost jaundice detector, BiliSpec, which accurately diagnoses bilirubin levels with comparable accuracy to expensive laboratory tests. The device's affordability could bring testing for jaundice within reach for cash-strapped hospitals in sub-Saharan Africa.
Researchers decode interactions between materials and structures in nature-inspired composites like nacre and tooth enamel. The model reveals key factors influencing composite properties and provides insights into designing lightweight, multifunctional structural composites.
Researchers at Rice University have refined a method to train robots to collaborate with humans through gentle physical feedback. The approach allows robots to adjust their trajectory in real-time and learn from human interaction, enabling more efficient and effective collaboration.
Researchers at Rice University and MD Anderson Cancer Center use fluorescent carbon nanotube probes to locate specific tumors in the body. The noninvasive technique achieved first in vivo success in detecting small concentrations of nanotubes inside rodents with high accuracy.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that borophene, a two-dimensional boron material, can emit visible and near-infrared light by activating its plasmons. This property makes it a promising candidate for plasmonic and photonic devices such as biomolecule sensors, waveguides, nanoscale light harvesters, and nanoantennas.
A team of scientists from Rice, UCLA, Michigan State, and UNM discovered a significant enrichment of heavy nitrogen molecules in the Earth's atmosphere. This finding suggests that life on Earth is locked in a tug-of-war with the deep Earth and upper atmosphere over the presence of these rare molecules.
Rice researchers successfully printed complex schwarzite structures with computer algorithms and 3-D printers, showcasing their strength, lightness, and durability. The discovery may lead to high-load-bearing components for buildings, cars, and aircraft, as well as nanoscale electronic devices and battery components.
A recent study by Rice University sociologists found that over a third of Latino respondents believe science education may negatively impact their children's faith. The study aimed to understand the relationship between STEM education and religious faith among blacks and Latinos, two groups with high levels of religiosity.
Researchers at Rice University and Northwestern University have developed a method to use nanoshells to deliver high doses of cancer-killing drugs inside tumors. The approach uses laser-activated gold nanoparticles to release approved drugs in laboratory cultures, demonstrating clinical applicability.
A new study from Rice University reveals that nearly 80% of undocumented Mexican immigrants living near the California-Mexico border have a lifetime history of traumatic events. Clinically significant psychological distress affects around 50% of these individuals, with many reporting domestic violence, poverty, and material deprivation.
Pillared graphene's thermal transport was found to be faster with wrinkles due to reduced phonon scattering. The optimal configuration involves three octagons instead of six heptagons, facilitating a smoother turn without significantly stressing the graphene.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a novel gene cluster in Mycobacterium dioxanotrophicus PH-06 that expresses an enzyme capable of initiating dioxane biodegradation. This finding could lead to the development of a cost-effective tool for treating contaminated groundwater sites.
Using computer models, researchers analyzed epigenetic marks to predict how chromosomes fold in three dimensions. By training a neural network on these marks, they were able to identify the structural types of chromatin and validate their findings with additional data.
Rice University scientists invented a bifunctional recognition system called NanoDeg to target specific proteins and regulate their degradation. This plug-and-play system allows for precise control over protein expression levels, enabling the study of cellular dynamics and synthetic gene circuits.
A new study by Rice University found that nearly a quarter of Mexican immigrants living near the California-Mexico border without legal authorization have a mental disorder, with major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder being the most prevalent. The study's findings highlight the need for culturally s...
Researchers found that microscopic defects in electrodes enable lithium to hop inside the cathode along multiple directions, increasing reactive surface area and allowing for more efficient exchange of lithium ions. This discovery challenges traditional thinking on how electrode shape should be optimized for battery performance.
A probe invented at Rice University has identified a specific binding site on the amyloid beta peptide, which is suspected to cause Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to the development of photodynamic therapy for Alzheimer's disease.
Recent research reveals that some infant rice cereal samples tested for high amounts of methylmercury, posing health risks to babies who consume them. The study found rice-based cereals had significantly higher levels of the substance compared to products with no rice.
Researchers at Rice University developed nanotube fiber antennas that match the performance of traditional copper antennas but weigh significantly less. The flexible fibers offer practical advantages for aerospace and wearable electronics applications, where weight and flexibility are crucial factors.
Research from Rice University found that individuals with depressive symptoms before a disaster experience increased inflammation, a major risk factor for heart disease. The study tracked participants' health markers after the 2005 Texas City petrochemical refinery explosion and found a significant increase in inflammatory markers.
Researchers at Rice University have developed microfluidic devices to study the interaction between asphaltene and dispersants, revealing that smaller particles are more likely to stick together. The study found that dispersants can break down deposits by increasing repulsion between aggregates, creating softer asphaltenes.
Rice University researchers have identified a specific binding site on the amyloid beta peptide, which could facilitate the development of better drugs to treat Alzheimer's disease. The probe uses light activation to catalyze oxidation of the protein, preventing it from aggregating in the brains of patients.
Researchers and experts are concerned about the collection, sharing, and storage of personal health data by health and wellness apps. Kirsten Ostherr, a Rice University professor, notes that many unregulated apps capture tons of personal data, including potentially classified as personal health information.
A new study by Rice University researchers reveals a strong negative correlation between the brain's flexibility and modularity, with highly modular brains showing low flexibility. The study presents a theoretical framework to explain this relationship, suggesting that flexibility and modularity tap into different cognitive processes.
Scientists discovered fossil evidence of punctuated bursts of sea-level rise in coral reefs offshore Texas, which poses a significant risk to coastal communities. The findings suggest that sea level may not rise steadily but rather in sharp bursts, with potential implications for future study and preparation for inundation.
Researchers created a computational model to improve the efficiency of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing by allowing off-target cuts, which may help on-target cutting be faster. The model suggests that proteins can correct mistakes and tolerate minor mutations, potentially leading to more precise gene editing.
Researchers at Rice University have advanced the art of making nanotube-based materials by characterizing and purifying long nanotube wires and films. The study found that longer nanotubes yield stronger and more conductive fibers, with an average tensile strength of 2.4 GPa and electrical conductivity of 8.5 megasiemens per meter.
A recent expedition to the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary revealed a 10% drop in salinity levels due to Hurricane Harvey's floodwater plume. The team hopes to track the plume as it migrates through the Gulf, aiming to understand its impact on the reefs' health.
Rice University researchers have found that placing gold nanodisks into groups can selectively alter their vibrational frequencies, a discovery that could lead to new ways of converting light energy into mechanical energy. The study's findings show promise for applications in secure communications, sensing, and other fields.
A study found that evangelical and black Protestants, and Mormons, are more likely to consult religious sources for scientific questions. However, the general population is still more likely to seek answers from scientific sources.
Researchers at Rice University have created a platform to study polymer folding dynamics using magnetic beads. The new method allows for the observation of complex behaviors, such as bending and coiling, in semiflexible fibers like actin and DNA.
Laurence Yeung, a geochemist at Rice University, has been awarded a 2017 Packard Fellowship to support his research on the atmospheric system. He plans to use the grant to take risks and explore new ideas in his field, including the development of a compact device for isotopic measurements.
Researchers at Rice University created ultraflat magnets with magnetic properties by adding rhenium to two-dimensional materials, expanding possibilities for spintronic devices. The discovery was made using chemical vapor deposition and doping techniques.
Ancient South Americans discovered how to manipulate wild rice, leading to the growth of bigger rice crops with larger grains. The research, led by Professor Jose Iriarte, sheds light on the importance of wetlands and tropical forests in providing food for early human settlers.
Scientists use single-molecule FRET imaging techniques to study the dynamics of NMDA receptor gates, which control chemical signals into electrical signals. The research reveals that these gates have multiple conformational interactions that improve or degrade signaling.
High-modularity brains excel at simple tasks, while low-modularity brains outperform on complex tasks. The study's findings suggest that brain modularity impacts cognitive function and has implications for understanding the brain as a network.
Researchers at Rice University and Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a technique to probe through tiny windows created by an electron beam and measure the catalytic activity of molybdenum disulfide, a two-dimensional material. The study found that most production of hydrogen is coming from the thin sheets' edges.
Researchers create nanostructures with aluminum core and metallic islands that capture light energy, enabling powered chemical reactions. The technique allows for customizable surface chemistry and reactivity in one material.
A Rice University-led study shows that kinesins ignore weak forces as they transport cargo in cells, with lead kinesins carrying 90% of the load. The research provides molecular-level details of how kinesins respond to external forces and confirms earlier experiments on team-based motor proteins.
Rice University scientists have created a new anode material made from asphalt that shows exceptional stability and can bring lithium metal batteries from zero to full charge in just five minutes. The finding has significant implications for high-power density devices, including rapid charging capabilities.
Rice University scientists developed a superhydrophilic membrane that can remove more than 90% of hydrocarbons, bacteria, and particulates from contaminated fracking water. The filter keeps emulsified hydrocarbons from passing through, allowing for reuse and reducing the need for storage or transportation.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a four-component alloy with tunable optical properties, which could lead to more efficient solar cells and light-emitting diodes. The alloy's optical bandgap can be altered by changing the growth temperature, making it a promising material for various applications.
Researchers create a superhydrophilic filter that can remove greater than 90% of hydrocarbons and all bacteria from contaminated water produced by hydraulic fracturing operations. The filter significantly cuts the amount of water that needs to be stored or transported, making it ideal for reusing in fracking operations.
A new paper by Rice University sociologist Craig Considine reveals that Islamophobia is not just religious bias but also racism and cultural intolerance. Incidents of Islamophobia increased by 57% in 2016, and over half of hate crimes were linked to a race/ethnicity/ancestry bias.
Researchers at the University of Illinois study relationship maintenance strategies, finding that threats and relationship enhancement are intertwined. Couples can use individual or interactive approaches to mitigate conflicts and foster growth in their relationships.
A Rice University and Texas A&M-Galveston study found that FEMA's 100-year flood plain maps failed to capture 75 percent of flood damages from five serious floods. The research suggests that innovative computational tools can build more predictive maps, improving flood risk assessments.
A Rice University study has found that the aspirin-like drug diflunisal blocks the action of prestin, a key protein required for hearing. The research suggests potential repurposing of diflunisal as a treatment for cancer and amyloid polyneuropathy.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new computer model that accurately simulates the interactions between water and alkanes, a family of hydrocarbons. This breakthrough could have far-reaching implications in fields such as energy production, environmental systems and biology.
Researchers have developed motorized molecules that can target and destroy specific cells using ultraviolet light. The nanomachines can be designed to deliver drugs or disrupt cell membranes, showing promise for treating diseases like breast tumors and melanomas.
Rice University scientists have developed a method to efficiently modify natural antibodies that can deliver drugs to target cells by adding rhodium, a rare transition metal. The new technique allows labs to test the relative function of various antibody sources and antigen targets to see which will work best on tumor cells.
Seismologists have discovered that processes beneath the Andean Plateau produce far more continental rock than previously thought. The findings suggest that mountain-forming regions could create larger volumes of continental crust in less time, leading to significant changes in our understanding of Earth's geological history.