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Nanoreporters tell 'sour' oil from 'sweet'

Rice University scientists have created a nanoscale detector that checks for and reports on the presence of hydrogen sulfide in crude oil and natural gas while they're still in the ground. The detection method is sensitive enough to detect low concentrations, making it an important tool for improving safety and efficiency in oil fields.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 22, 2014

Study: Centuries of sand to grow Mississippi Delta

Researchers found that the river's supply of sand, a key ingredient for rebuilding marshlands, will remain constant for at least 300 years. The study suggests that despite reduced sediment loads, the abundance of sand in the lower Mississippi River channel will continue to replenish wetlands.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 21, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Rice U. study: Performance measures for CEOs vary greatly

A new study by Rice University and Cornell University shows that S\/P 500 companies have tied CEO compensation to performance with varying performance measures. On average, firms rely mostly on accounting-based performance measures, but larger firms and growth-oriented firms tend to use market-based measures.

SourceRice University·JournalReview of Finance·DateApr 16, 2014

Synthetic collagen promotes natural clotting

Researchers at Rice University have developed a synthetic collagen, KOD, that mimics the body's natural collagen to promote natural clotting and heal surgical wounds. Lab tests showed KOD hydrogel traps red blood cells to stop bleeding and binds platelets to form clots, improving upon commercial hemostats.

SourceRice University·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateApr 9, 2014

Scalable CVD process for making 2-D molybdenum diselenide

Researchers at Rice University and Nanyang Technological University have developed a scalable CVD process for producing one-atom-thick layers of 2D molybdenum diselenide, a highly sought semiconductor. The new method offers improved electronic properties compared to similar materials like graphene.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 8, 2014

Rice U. study: Creativity and innovation need to talk more

A new study by Rice University finds that businesses and academia are not sufficiently integrating creativity and innovation, which requires skillful leadership to maximize benefits. The study proposes 60 research questions and 11 themes for future studies to improve understanding of workplace creativity and innovation.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Management·DateApr 8, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Synthetic gene circuits pump up cell signals

Researchers at Rice University have designed a sophisticated synthetic genetic circuit that signals increases in the degradation of proteins by the cell's ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). The Deg-On circuit produces a green fluorescent signal linked to UPS degradation, allowing researchers to monitor proteasomal activity.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2014

Study: Black carbon is ancient by the time it reaches seafloor

A recent study by Rice University and colleagues analyzed the environmental fate of black carbon in deep ocean sediments. They found that more than half of black carbon never reaches the bottom, but instead stays dissolved in seawater or gets trapped in particles before sinking to the seafloor.

SourceRice University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 8, 2014

Rebar technique strengthens case for graphene

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new hybrid material by combining carbon nanotubes with graphene, resulting in improved electrical and mechanical properties. The 'rebar graphene' technique enables large, flexible, conductive sheets of graphene to be manipulated more easily, making it a potential replacement for indium ti...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 7, 2014
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.

Diamonds are an oil's best friend

Rice University scientists have found that a mixture of diamond nanoparticles and mineral oil outperforms other types of fluid in heat transfer applications. The researchers tested the nanofluid at concentrations up to 0.1 percent weight and found significant improvements in thermal conductivity, while maintaining a usable viscosity.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 31, 2014

Academic workplace bias against parents hurts nonparents too

A new study from Rice University found that university workplace bias against scientists and engineers who use flexible work arrangements may increase employee dissatisfaction and turnover, even for those without children. The research suggests that flexibility stigma can lead to a toxic culture that affects department productivity.

SourceRice University·JournalWork and Occupations·DateMar 31, 2014

US clean-air efforts stay on target

A Rice University analysis of state implementation plans reveals that most urban areas have met the next benchmark for reducing airborne particulate matter. The study found that PM 2.5 concentrations declined by an average 2.6 micrograms per cubic meter in regions that filed SIPs to attain the standard by 2009.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateMar 27, 2014

Cancer researchers find key protein link

Researchers found a previously unknown binding interface between Bcl-2 and NAF-1 proteins, which could be addressed by medication. The study's findings have implications for treating cancer and age-related diseases.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2014

Rice U. study: Don't shop for travel at work

A study from Rice University found that consumers who shop for leisure travel during business hours tend to select higher quality hotels but are less satisfied with their stay. Consumers who book earlier and pay in advance also tend to be more satisfied.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMar 26, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice study: Simple changes to homework improved student learning

A Rice University and Duke University study found that modifying homework procedures improved exam scores without changing the course curriculum. The study used cognitive science principles, including repeated retrieval practice, spacing, and immediate feedback, to develop inexpensive yet effective educational changes.

SourceRice University·JournalEducational Psychology Review·DateMar 18, 2014

Incentives needed to improve grain markets in India

Researchers found that grain farmers in India face regulatory barriers and lack of incentives to invest in on-farm storage, hindering market integration. Small innovations can encourage independent traders to enter the market, benefiting farmers with access to better prices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014

Big data tackles tiny molecular machines

Biophysicists at Rice University developed a computational technique that combines genetic and structural data to analyze complex molecular machines. The technique, called DCA, reveals previously unknown details about protein transitions between functional states.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 14, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Malnourished children are better fed when mothers have network of peers

A University of Illinois study found that mothers participating in a vocational training program gained a network of peers, leading to increased bargaining strength and improved children's consumption of rice and dairy. The program empowered women, allowing them to exert more say over household resources.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateMar 10, 2014

Liver metabolism study could help patients awaiting transplants

A Rice University-led team of researchers found that liver cells up-regulate glycolytic pathway to produce more energy in response to disease, leading to net gain in metabolic output. The study suggests new treatments to delay liver failure by boosting glycolytic energy production.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Herpetology·DateMar 3, 2014

We want to save water, but do we know how?

A national survey by Indiana University researcher Shahzeen Attari found that nearly 43% of participants cited taking shorter showers, despite toilets using the most water daily. The study highlights the importance of efficiency improvements like replacing toilets and retrofitting washing machines to conserve water.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Nanotracer tester tells about wells

A Rice University lab has invented a tabletop device to evaluate the efficiency of oil and gas wells by analyzing nanoparticle movement. The device simulates the long path nanoparticles travel through deep rock formations, providing valuable information for producers.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science Processes & Impacts·DateFeb 24, 2014

Caps not the culprit in nanotube chirality

Rice University researchers conducted a two-year census of 4,500 possible cap formations for nanotubes, finding that the elastic energy landscapes involved in cap formation do not dictate the nanotube's chirality. Instead, other factors such as catalyst interaction and energy landscape play a crucial role.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 17, 2014

Misconceptions of science and religion found in new study

A new survey of over 10,000 Americans found that nearly 50% of evangelicals believe science and religion can work together, contrary to public perception. The study also showed that scientists are more likely to practice their faith than the general population, challenging conventional wisdom.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 16, 2014
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.

Rice's carbon nanotube fibers outperform copper

Carbon nanotube-based fibers have been shown to carry electrical current up to four times that of copper wires of the same mass. The fibers' ability to transmit current makes them ideal for lightweight power transmission in aerospace applications, where weight is a significant factor.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 14, 2014

Is height important in matters of the heart? New study says yes

A new study from Rice University and the University of North Texas suggests that physical similarity is not the dominant rule in human mating when it comes to height preferences. Women prefer taller partners mostly for protection and femininity, while men prefer shorter women but not extremely short ones for intimacy purposes.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateFeb 10, 2014

Quick test finds signs of diarrheal disease

Researchers have created a rapid, affordable diagnostic test for cryptosporidiosis using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) technique. The test can detect the presence of even one parasite in a sample, with high accuracy rates, and requires minimal equipment.

SourceRice University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2014

Diamond film possible without the pressure

Scientists at Rice University and Russia have calculated a road map for creating ultra-thin diamond films without high pressure. The 'phase diagram' outlines conditions necessary to turn stacked graphene sheets into flawless diamond lattices, with potential applications in nanocapacitors, electronics, and nano-optics.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 3, 2014

Rice lab clocks 'hot' electrons

Researchers at Rice University measured the speed and efficiency of excited 'hot' electrons drawn from gold nanoparticles into a sheet of graphene. They found that graphene accelerated damping of plasmons, shortening its lifetime, and calculated the electrons' transfer time.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 30, 2014
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Clinical study finds 'bubble CPAP' boosts neonatal survival rates

A clinical study published in PLOS ONE found that the low-cost 'bubble CPAP' device increased neonatal survival rates by 27% compared to standard care, saving an estimated 178,000 lives annually. The technology, developed by Rice University students, is a cheaper alternative to conventional CPAP machines.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Don't forget the customers after mergers

A recent study found that companies that successfully achieve a dual emphasis of improving efficiency and customer satisfaction experience the highest increase in long-term financial performance. The research suggests that ignoring customers during mergers can lead to missed opportunities and decreased value for firms.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateJan 29, 2014

Researchers tune in to protein pairs

Rice University scientists create method to quantify how mutations affect protein pairs' ability to transmit signals. The new metric helps understand crosstalk and specificity in two-component systems, essential for bioengineering applications.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2014

Better protein capture a boon for drug manufacturers

Researchers create method to pinpoint locations for single proteins and improve chromatography process, leading to faster and cheaper drug production. This breakthrough could widen bottleneck in pharmaceutical industry and expand application to other industries.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2014
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.

New test targets salmonella

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel biosensor that can detect multiple strains of salmonella pathogens in food quickly and easily. The sensor uses microcantilevers decorated with peptides to identify the presence of specific bacteria, delivering results within minutes and outperforming existing standard tests.

SourceRice University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2014

Researchers 'detune' a molecule

Researchers at Rice University found that they can control the bonds between atoms in a molecule by applying a voltage and running an electric current through a single buckyball. The effect appears when the buckyball attaches to a gold surface, causing its internal bonds to undergo a subtle shift.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2014
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.

Some motor proteins cooperate better than others

Researchers at Rice University have found that motor proteins cooperate differently, with myosinVa producing more force than kinesin-1. This cooperation is crucial for regulating the transport of organelles within cells, and breakdowns in motor function are implicated in human diseases.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2014

Synthetic genetic clock checks the thermometer

Researchers created a robust synthetic genetic clock in E. coli bacteria to regulate protein production accurately across a wide temperature range. The breakthrough resolves a long-standing problem in synthetic biology and has potential applications in biotechnology and reprogramming cellular regulatory mechanisms.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2014

RAMBO a small but powerful magnet

RAMBO allows researchers to run spectroscopy-based experiments in pulsed magnetic fields of up to 30 tesla on a tabletop. The device enables direct optical access to the sample and combines ultrastrong magnetic fields with short and intense optical pulses.

SourceRice University·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 6, 2014

'Superbugs' found breeding in sewage plants

Scientists have discovered 'superbugs' carrying multidrug-resistant bacteria in treated wastewater from two plants in northern China. The study reveals the microbes breed and spread their dangerous cargo, highlighting a significant public health risk.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 16, 2013
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.

Graphene nanoribbons an ice-melting coat for radar

Rice University scientists have developed a spray-on coating made from graphene nanoribbons that can melt ice on sensitive radar domes without interfering with radio frequencies. The material is also transparent and durable, making it a promising competitor to existing deicing technologies.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 16, 2013

Ethanol blends carry hidden risk

Researchers at Rice University found that blending more ethanol into fuel can lead to the release of toxic or explosive gases, which can accumulate in buildings and pose health risks. The study highlights the need for new thinking on managing vapor-intrusion risks due to fuel spills.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 13, 2013

Light and sound fire scientists' imaginations

Researchers have discovered new abilities to manipulate light and sound using structured polymers, which could lead to breakthroughs in computing, sensing technology, and soundproofing. The findings suggest the potential for creating thin soundproofing materials that can guide rather than absorb sound.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 12, 2013
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.

Pregnant job applicants can act to dispel discriminatory stereotypes

A study from Rice University found that pregnant women face more interpersonal hostility in the job search process than non-pregnant women. Addressing stereotypes, particularly inflexibility and commitment levels, can nearly triple their chances of avoiding such treatment.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateDec 11, 2013

Liquid to gel to bone

Researchers have developed a hydrogel scaffold that solidifies into a gel at body temperature, providing a platform for functional and aesthetic tissue regeneration. The material is intended as an alternative to prefabricated implantable scaffolds and can be injected to the point of need.

SourceRice University·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateDec 11, 2013

Scientists scale terahertz peaks in nanotubes

In a breakthrough discovery, Rice University researchers found that free electrons in metallic and doped carbon nanotubes create plasmons at terahertz frequencies, enabling the potential for advanced optoelectronic devices. This finding clarifies the origin of the previously observed terahertz peak in nanotubes.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 9, 2013

Morphing material has mighty potential

Researchers develop composite material that can change shape in response to temperature, enabling applications such as dynamic scaffolds and implantable materials. The material's reversible properties make it suitable for biomedical applications where shape changes need to be repeated.

SourceRice University·JournalSoft Matter·DateDec 9, 2013

Coal yields plenty of graphene quantum dots

Rice University scientists have discovered a simple method for producing graphene quantum dots in bulk from coal, opening up new opportunities for medical imaging, sensing, and electronic applications. The process allows for control over the size of the dots, which can be tuned to produce different fluorescent wavelengths.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2013
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.

Proteins' passing phases revealed

Rice University researchers have developed a new method to identify previously hidden details about proteins' structures, potentially accelerating novel drug design. By combining structural data and genomic analysis, the team predicted intermediate configurations of proteins that were hard to detect.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2013

Study shows how water dissolves stone, molecule by molecule

Scientists at Rice University and MARUM developed a new computerized model to simulate the complex chemistry at the boundary layer, where quartz and water meet. The model accurately predicts dissolution rates, which could revolutionize engineering calculations related to building materials and radioactive waste storage.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateDec 5, 2013

Rice U. study: It's not easy 'being green'

A new Rice University study explores the complex relationship between self-evaluations and supportive behaviors towards environmental issues. Researchers found that individuals who experience mixed self-evaluations, including both positive self-assets and negative self-doubt, tend to exhibit less extensive issue-supportive behavior.

SourceRice University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateDec 2, 2013

When aluminum outshines gold

Researchers at Rice University have discovered aluminum's valuable plasmonic properties, which make it suitable for harvesting solar energy and creating large-area optical devices. The study also found that aluminum exhibits quantum mechanical effects stronger than gold in certain nanomatryushka structures.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 2, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Flashes of brilliance

Researchers at Rice University discovered the mechanism behind superfluorescent bursts in quantum wells, enabling compact semiconductor devices to produce picosecond pulses of light. The discovery may lead to new telecommunications equipment and other devices transmitting signals at picosecond speeds.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 25, 2013

Dunn Foundation awards bioscience grants

The John S. Dunn Foundation awards seed grants to researchers at Rice University's BioScience Research Collaborative to support new collaborations in cancer diagnosis and treatment, vascular health, and plant-inspired energy conversion. The grants aim to foster interdisciplinary and multi-institutional research.

SourceRice University·DateNov 25, 2013

Rice scientists ID new catalyst for cleanup of nitrites

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new catalyst that can rapidly break down nitrites, a harmful contaminant found in drinking water. Gold-palladium nanocatalysts are up to 15 times more efficient than pure palladium nanocatalysts in breaking down nitrites.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateNov 25, 2013
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.