Neal F. Lane will receive the SURA Distinguished Friend of Science Award for his efforts to strengthen research in the Southeast and nation. The award honors Lane's contributions to increasing research funding, particularly in the physical sciences.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to pinpoint the amount of methane hydrates trapped under the seabed using shallow core samples. The technique, which analyzes transition zones between methane and sulfate, can aid in selecting deep drilling sites for expensive exploratory drilling.
Researchers aim to create bacteria that form geometrical patterns to understand stem cell behavior. By modifying E. coli with genetic circuits, they hope to unlock the genetic programming behind complex cellular structures.
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Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method to create synthetic collagen, which forms from a liquid in just an hour and has properties similar to native collagen. The material may be used as a scaffold for regenerating tissues and organs using stem cells.
Researchers at Rice University have successfully powered a fluorescent light bulb using a cable made of carbon nanotubes, which is six times lighter than copper and silver. The new material shows great promise for use in applications where weight is critical, such as airplanes and automobiles.
Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough that could allow wireless phone companies to double throughput on their networks without adding a single cell tower. The new 'full-duplex' technology uses an extra antenna and computing tricks to enable simultaneous transmission and reception on the same frequency.
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Astronomers using Hubble Space Telescope images have created time-lapse movies revealing dynamic behavior of stellar jets. The studies show clouds of dust and gas within the jets move at different speeds, challenging existing understanding of star birth processes.
A new study from Rice University reveals that gold nanowires less than 20 nanometers wide can become brittle-like under stress, exhibiting unique properties on the nanoscale. Researchers found twins in nanowires to be a key factor in reducing ductility, leading to premature fracture.
Rice University scientists have developed a solid-state, nanotube-based supercapacitor that combines the benefits of batteries and capacitors. The new device is stable, scalable, and suitable for extreme environments, with potential applications in electronics, sensors, and renewable energy systems.
Rice University researchers developed a method to rapidly convert glucose into biofuels and petrochemical substitutes by reversing the beta oxidation cycle in bacteria. They produced butanol, a biofuel, about 10 times faster than previously reported organisms, using cheap feedstocks like glucose and mineral salts.
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Researchers found a direct relationship between chemical synthesis conditions and graphene alloy electronic properties. This discovery enables precise prediction of final product's properties using well-understood chemical procedures.
Researchers demonstrate that any carbon source can be converted into high-quality graphene, a material with numerous applications. They tested various materials, including food, insects, and waste, to produce graphene, showcasing its potential for widespread use.
Researchers at Rice University have created a hybrid graphene film that combines conductivity and transparency, potentially replacing indium tin oxide as a transparent conductive coating in displays. The material outperforms ITO in terms of transparency and conductivity, and is environmentally stable.
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Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to transform sheets of graphite oxide into functional supercapacitors by writing patterns into them with a laser. The devices exhibit good electrochemical performance without the need for chemicals, comparable to existing thin-film micro-supercapacitors.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a hybrid energy storage device packed into a single nanowire, which shows promise as a rechargeable power source for nanoelectronics. The devices have good capacity but require further optimization to improve performance.
A team of engineers from four US universities aims to create a prosthetic arm that can be controlled by brain signals, allowing amputees to perceive tactile sensations. The project combines noninvasive neural decoding, direct brain control, and sensory feedback to improve the user experience.
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A Rice University study reveals that European house mice have developed resistance to warfarin through two distinct processes: point mutation and horizontal gene transfer. Algerian mice, a desert-dwelling species, are believed to have passed the resistant genome into house mice in Spain or North Africa.
Researchers have defined the atomic structure of astrovirus, which causes juvenile diarrhea, identifying potential targets for vaccine development and antiviral drugs. The study may help block the virus before it becomes infectious and reduce the risk of dehydration in children.
Rice University scientists have developed a cable made of metallic nanotubes that can carry electricity with minimal loss. The 'amplified' nanotubes are created by chemically attaching an iron/cobalt catalyst to the ends of nanotubes and fine-tuning the temperature and environment for amplification.
Rice University researchers have created a metallic molecule that becomes strongly photoluminescent when it attaches to amyloid fibrils, which form plaques in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. This breakthrough technique has the potential to improve the design of medications to treat the devastating disease.
Houston's population growth was the highest in the US, with a whopping 1.2 million new residents added over the past decade, outpacing New York and Chicago combined. The city's growth can be attributed to its proximity to Latin America, business-friendly policies, low cost of living, and significant job growth.
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Researchers developed a supramolecular system combining single-walled carbon nanotubes with porous silicate materials, enabling the study of interactions between carbon nanotubes and a wide range of photoluminescent molecules. The platform holds promise for applications in catalysis, artificial photosynthesis, and hydrogen splitting.
A study from Rice University and Italy's Eugenio Medea Scientific Institute has shed light on the biochemical workings of atlastin, a protein linked to HSP. The research suggests that atlastin plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of long nerve cells affected by HSP.
A new study from Rice University and Louisiana State University reveals the Antarctic Peninsula was ice-free and forested during its warmest period 55 million years ago. The research provides a detailed reconstruction of the climatic history of the peninsula, shedding light on how the continent's ice sheets formed and evolved over time.
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Researchers found that job satisfaction and emotional well-being are better predictors of turnover in long-term care facilities. Certified nursing assistants were more likely to switch jobs due to lower emotional distress and greater job satisfaction after switching, even if it meant taking a pay cut.
Research found that plant growth retardants had no effect on plant growth rate or stem length when used with a rice hull substrate, similar to a traditional peat and perlite mix. The study suggests that producers can employ PGR drench strategies without worrying about reduced efficacy due to the presence of rice hulls.
Research by Rice University and colleagues found that men who flaunt expensive items like Porsches are perceived as more desirable for short-term flings, but not for marriage. In contrast, owning a non-luxury item had no significant advantage in the eyes of potential partners.
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Rice was domesticated at least twice, with substantial gene sharing between the southern and northern varieties, challenging long-held theories. Researchers found that certain traits were borrowed extensively from one another, leading to a reevaluation of rice's origins.
A new study from the University of Missouri found that CEOs who prioritize employee job satisfaction can significantly improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. The researchers discovered a strong link between high employee satisfaction and customer loyalty, with twice as strong a positive impact compared to low employee satisfaction.
Two renowned physicists and a chemist will collaborate on cancer research at Rice's BioScience Research Collaborative. They plan to apply physical principles to understand complex biological systems and develop new approaches to treat cancer.
Rice University is hosting 25-30 Japanese students for a summer research program amid the country's recovery from the March 11 earthquake and tsunamis. The Reverse NanoJapan program offers labs in Japan the opportunity to send students to Rice for three months.
Research from Rice University and the University of Delaware found that unverifiable information like personal stories enhances lending decisions. Borrowers who explain their circumstances but deny details have poor loan performance. Using a 'trustworthy' identity can lower costs by almost 30% and save $375 in interest charges.
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A new study found that rice-based liquid smoke has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help fight off diseases. The researchers discovered that it could prevent inflammation without triggering allergic responses.
Researchers discovered that married couples tend to select partners based on their social and political attitudes rather than physical traits or personality. This finding suggests that people place more emphasis on finding a kindred spirit for politics, religion, and social activities.
A Rice University study found that daily deal promotions can be effective for retail startup businesses in local markets, increasing profits by up to 30% when unredeemed Groupons are accounted for. The promotion also brought greater exposure, earning revenues almost 140% higher than expected.
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A new study from Rice University found that 72 scientists, many of whom identify as atheist, possess a spirituality consistent with science. These 'spiritual atheist' scientists believe in a core sense of truth generated by their work as scientists, and see both science and spirituality as meaning-making without faith.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new technology that could dramatically improve solar energy panels by merging nanoscale antennas with semiconductors. This technique allows the capture of infrared light's energy, which is currently unable to be converted into electricity in silicon-based solar cells.
A team of genome researchers has concluded that domesticated rice may have first appeared as far back as approximately 9,000 years ago in the Yangtze Valley of China. The study used large-scale gene re-sequencing to analyze the evolutionary history of domesticated rice.
A team of scientists led by Rice University geologist Alan Levander has figured out why the Colorado Plateau is rising even as parts of its lower crust appear to be falling. The region's uplift is caused by magmatic material from the depths slowly rising to invade the lithosphere, causing layers to peel away and sink.
Rice University bioengineering students collaborate with the Texas Heart Institute to create unique AED pads that allow rescuers to try again without losing valuable time. The pads have been tested with 100% success rate and are being patented, with hopes of being picked up by an AED manufacturer for FDA approval.
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Physicists at Rice University have detected the heaviest antimatter particle ever observed, antihelium-4, using a time-of-flight detector designed at the institution. The discovery provides new insights into the conditions of the early universe and the existence of antimatter galaxies.
A team of Rice University bioengineering students has developed a portable device that controls air around the eyes to help doctors diagnose dry eye. The ClimaTears device uses modified goggles with embedded data sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, and air flow, providing clues about treatment options.
The SSPEED Center will focus on four key areas: the Houston Ship Channel, Galveston Bay, Galveston city, and low-lying coastal lands. The goal is to develop and evaluate alternative concepts for protecting these areas in light of new regulations.
Despite economic anxiety, most Houstonians believe in an improving quality of life locally and consider the city a better place to live. They are also willing to support policies that moderate inequalities and nurture a more educated workforce.
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Scientists at Rice University and Texas A&M have developed a method to pattern active proteins into bio-friendly fibers. The new work simplifies the process of making materials with fully functional proteins, opening up possibilities for chemical catalysts, biosensors, tissue engineering, and more.
A team of bioengineers at Rice University is developing new materials to grow replacement heart valves using gel-like scaffolds that mimic the complex structure and physical properties of heart-valve tissues. The goal is to create living valves that use a patient's own cells, eliminating tissue rejection.
The updated studies will provide long-term projections and help researchers identify new trends using 2010 census data. This living resource will be available online and continuously updated to inform policymakers.
Rice University and nonprofit Technology For All launch free community broadband Wi-Fi network in East Houston neighborhood, providing underserved residents with reliable internet access. The network uses dynamic spectrum access technology to automatically shift between traditional Wi-Fi and unused TV channels for optimal coverage.
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A study from Rice University found that placing multiracial adults into single-race categories can alter patterns of racial health disparities. Multiracial adults are more likely to report poor health, despite identifying with healthier single-race groups.
Researchers used X-ray CT scanners to analyze rice plant traits, improving measurement accuracy and reducing costs. This technology aids in selecting plants with the best tillers, crucial for crop success.
Biocontainers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic containers, with rice hulls showing the highest vertical dry strength and lowest water loss rates. Researchers recommend selecting biocontainers based on specific physical properties to meet greenhouse needs.
Researchers will investigate how transposable elements in rice plants adapt to environmental changes, with implications for understanding TE impact on gene expression and organismal responses. The team aims to document the global impact of a TE burst in any organism and develop resources for tracking TE movement.
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Researchers at Rice University have created a synthetic material that gets stronger from repeated stress much like the body strengthens bones and muscles after repeated workouts. The team found that dynamic stress is necessary to improve the stiffness of the composite, unlike static loads.
The UK and Vietnam are collaborating on a major effort to improve flood, drought, salt and pest tolerance in rice, addressing growing population demands and climate change threats. The project will sequence the genomes of 30 rice varieties, developing an important genomics platform for breeding rice with improved traits.
Researchers used image-analysis methods to analyze microcinematic movies of bacteria forming aggregates, revealing that size matters most in predicting survival. The team found a signaling mechanism within the aggregate itself that trumps neighbor-related factors, contradicting existing theories.
A collaborative EUREKA project developed an integrated pest management system, reducing rice waste by over 95% through sustainable technologies. The system uses electronic insect traps, aeration, and modified atmosphere to protect rice during storage, improving quality and food security.
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Researchers at Rice University have developed a new pruning technique to trim away unnecessary circuits in computer chips, resulting in faster and more energy-efficient devices. The method uses probabilistic computing to boost performance while reducing power demands.
Researchers at Rice University and Georgia Tech found evidence for three distinct layers of working memory, including a core focusing on one active item and surrounding areas holding multiple items. Predictability can improve multitasking by automizing certain tasks, allowing individuals to effectively switch between tasks.
A new study by Rice University's Baker Institute found that US researchers who collaborate with international scientists receive more citations and greater recognition than their peers. This is particularly true when the US scientist is a corresponding author, with an average of 20.3 citations compared to 15.0 for independent publicati...
Researchers found that flood-tolerant rice plants with the Sub1A gene not only survive flooding but also recover well from drought, growing new shoots. This breakthrough could greatly benefit rice growers and consumers globally.