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Rice engineer wins grant to study temperature and coronavirus

Daniel Preston, a Rice engineer, has received a National Science Foundation grant to investigate the effect of varying temperatures on SARS-CoV-2. His project aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for PPE sterilization and predict virus lifetime in different climates.

SourceRice University·DateMay 14, 2020
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.

2D oxide flakes pick up surprise electrical properties

Researchers at Rice University found evidence of piezoelectricity in lab-grown molybdenum dioxide flakes due to trapped electrons in defects. The material exhibits strong piezoelectric response comparable to conventional materials like molybdenum disulfide.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 7, 2020

Building blocks of the cell wall: pectin drives reproductive development in rice

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that pectin plays a vital role in plant reproductive development, particularly in female reproductive tissues. The study revealed that the OsPMT16 gene is crucial for normal pistil development, leading to increased fertility and improved breeding potential.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 7, 2020

Water-splitting module a source of perpetual energy

Rice University researchers have created a self-sustaining system that splits water to produce hydrogen fuel using solar power, with an efficiency of up to 6.7%. The device uses perovskite solar cells and catalytic electrodes to convert sunlight into electricity, which drives the electrochemical reaction to produce hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 4, 2020

Federal grant bolsters Rice eye research

Peter Lwigale has been awarded a four-year, $1.5 million NIH R01 grant to investigate the function of Npnt, a protein abundant in the cornea's extracellular matrix. The study aims to inform therapies for malformed eyes and injuries.

SourceRice University·DateMay 4, 2020

Hidden symmetry found in chemical kinetic equations

Rice University researchers have discovered a hidden symmetry in the chemical kinetic equations used to model biological processes. This discovery has significant implications for drug design, genetics, and biomedical research, as it reveals that errors are controlled by kinetics rather than thermodynamics.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2020
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 engineers: Make wastewater drinkable again

Researchers at Rice University developed a plan to recycle wastewater, reducing the need for surface water by 28%. The 'direct potable reuse' method could also improve water quality and travel times, providing a more efficient and sustainable water supply system.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 27, 2020

Rice researchers look to 'trap and zap' coronavirus

Rice University researchers have won a National Science Foundation RAPID grant to upgrade their wastewater-treatment technology. They aim to develop a system that can selectively adsorb viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, and disable them using photocatalytic disinfection.

SourceRice University·DateApr 23, 2020
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.

Actin 'avalanches' may make memories stick

Researchers at Rice University have simulated a complex network mechanism by which the brain retains information. The study suggests that cytoskeletal avalanches within neurons' dendritic spines may be one way they retain new information.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Tight spaces tip presence of petrochemicals

Researchers at Rice University have found that the size of the space trapping petrochemicals is the primary factor behind puzzling NMR signals, leading to better interpretation of logs in unconventional shale formations. The discovery is crucial for extracting oil and gas safely and economically.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateApr 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice chemist wins grant to simplify drug design

László Kürti, a Rice University chemist, has received a prestigious grant to speed up drug design by simplifying the synthesis of essential precursors. The five-year grant will support research into amines and their derivatives, which are present in most drug molecules. This could lead to more environmentally friendly drug development.

SourceRice University·DateApr 8, 2020

Better plant edits by enhancing DNA repair

A new genome editing system has been developed to enhance the efficiency of an error-free DNA repair pathway, which could help improve agronomic traits in multiple crops. The system uses Cas9 and VirD2 to facilitate homology-directed repair, increasing the rate of precise genetic modifications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 7, 2020

Rice University emergency ventilator plans now online

The Rice University team has developed an automated bag valve mask ventilator unit that can be built for less than $300 in parts. In lab tests, the device delivered nonstop air for 24 hours, showing its potential to help critically ill COVID-19 patients.

SourceRice University·DateApr 3, 2020

Rice insight gives Large Hadron Collider better eyesight

Rice University researchers are receiving $3 million to upgrade sensors for the Large Hadron Collider. The upgrades will enable the collider to discover even deeper truths about elemental matter. The research team is responsible for designing and managing the installation of next-generation sensors in the Compact Muon Solenoid.

SourceRice University·DateApr 1, 2020
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.

Double-walled nanotubes have electro-optical advantages

Researchers at Rice University have discovered that double-walled carbon nanotubes can create a staggered band alignment, allowing for more efficient separation of positive and negative charges in photovoltaic applications. This effect is caused by the interplay of different curvatures between the inner and outer walls of the nanotube.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 27, 2020

Coral tells own tale about El Niño's past

A study in Science reveals ancient coral records that show no correlation between volcanic eruptions and El Niño events. The analysis of oxygen isotopes in corals provides a high-fidelity record of ocean temperatures, spanning over 500 years of the last millennium.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Weedy rice is unintended legacy of Green Revolution

A new study reveals the extent to which high-yielding rice varieties favored in the Green Revolution have evolved into weedy populations worldwide, outcompeting cultivated varieties. The scientists found that over a third of Asian weed strains originated from elite cultivars developed during this era.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGenome Biology·DateMar 25, 2020
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.

Obama's 2008 election improved mental health of black men, research shows

New research from Rice University found that Barack Obama's 2008 presidential election improved the mental health of black men, with an average decrease in poor mental health days from four to three. However, this benefit did not extend to black women, who reported a slight increase in mental health problems following the election.

SourceRice University·JournalSociology of Race and Ethnicity·DateMar 24, 2020

6,000-8,000 km round trip flight of migratory wading birds tracked

Researchers tracked the migration routes of little ringed plovers, a freshwater wader species, covering 3,108-4,226km over 32-136 days. The study found rice paddy fields to be their preferred wintering sites, with increased reliance during non-breeding seasons.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 18, 2020

Blacks' views on racism affect likelihood of self-employment

Research from Rice University found that working blacks with high awareness of systemic racism are seven times more likely to pursue self-employment. However, these individuals often experience worse financial situations and lower education levels than their counterparts. The study suggests racism's influence on career choices and fina...

SourceRice University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMar 18, 2020

Scientists optimize prime editing for rice and wheat

A research team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has optimized a prime editing system to create desired point mutations, insertions, and deletions in rice and wheat. The system, called PPE, has achieved efficiencies up to 19.2% with various types of mutations.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 16, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Natural bayou better when floods threaten Houston

Researchers at Rice University found that Buffalo Bayou's natural form is better at absorbing floodwater and preventing it from spilling over into heavily populated areas. The study shows that urban development in the Brays watershed increased the 100-year flood plain, making it more prone to flooding.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·DateMar 11, 2020

New nano strategy fights superbugs

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy to destroy antibiotic-resistant genes, known as superbugs, in sewage system wastewater. The nano technology traps and degrades these genetic remnants before they can infect other bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 11, 2020

Groovy key to nanotubes in 2D

Researchers found that the alignment of nanotubes in 2D films corresponds to parallel, submicroscopic grooves on the paper. The grooves likely form during the factory production process, and removing them allows for control over alignment direction.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 9, 2020

Strong signals show how proteins come and go

Bioscientists at Rice University have developed a novel system to amplify gene expression signals, allowing for more sensitive detection of target genes. The system, consisting of two modules, provides high-resolution dynamic information on gene expression dynamics, which are critical for understanding cell behavior.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 9, 2020
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.

Scientists create model to predict multipathogen epidemics

Researchers from Rice University and the University of Michigan created a model to predict the severity of multipathogen epidemics based on within-host pathogen interactions. The study used zooplankton as a model organism and found that altering the order of infection can change the course of an epidemic.

SourceRice University·DateMar 5, 2020

Tissue-digging nanodrills do just enough damage

Researchers have successfully tested molecular motors that can destroy diseased cells in worms, plankton, and mice. The nanomachines caused various degrees of damage to tissues, showing their potential for treating skin diseases such as melanomas and eczema.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 5, 2020
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.

A small step for atoms, a giant leap for microelectronics

Scientists at Rice University successfully grew atom-thick sheets of hexagonal boron nitride, a wide band gap semiconductor, to create perfectly ordered crystals for use in integrated circuits. The breakthrough enables the development of 2D layers with millions of transistors, potentially overcoming limitations in miniaturization.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

Genome editing strategy could improve rice, other crops

Researchers developed a new genome editing strategy using CRISPR to precisely target genes for desirable traits, such as high beta-carotene levels and disease resistance. This approach reduces the need for marker genes and allows for more complex trait clusters.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2020

Deep learning rethink overcomes major obstacle in AI industry

Rice University researchers developed a cost-saving alternative to GPU acceleration called SLIDE, which uses general-purpose CPUs without specialized hardware. The algorithm outperforms traditional back-propagation training with hash tables, reducing computational overhead and enabling faster deep learning on CPUs.

SourceRice University·DateMar 2, 2020

'Smart water' may aid oil recovery

Scientists at Rice University found that low-salinity brine can create emulsion droplets in crude oil, enhancing oil recovery. The research also revealed the wettability of rock determines how easily it releases oil.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2020
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.

Tyson Raper named Cotton Researcher of the Year

Tyson Raper has made significant contributions to cotton profitability through his research on high-residue cover crops and nutrient rate optimization. His work evaluating crop heat units for modern cotton varieties is also being recognized with the Cotton Researcher of the Year award.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateFeb 27, 2020

Rice scientists simplify access to drug building block

The Rice University team has introduced an inexpensive organic synthesis technique that catalyzes the transfer of nitrogen atoms to olefins, making valuable pharmaceutical precursors. The process combines nitrogen and hydrogen atoms in triangular aziridine products, which are readily available to react with other agents.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 24, 2020

Magnet-controlled bioelectronic implant could relieve pain

A team of Rice University engineers has introduced the first neural implant that can be both programmed and charged remotely with a magnetic field. The integrated microsystem, called MagNI, incorporates magnetoelectric transducers that allow it to harvest power from an alternating magnetic field outside the body.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 19, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

CPRIT grant draws cell imaging specialist to Rice

Anna-Karin Gustavsson joins Rice University as a CPRIT Scholar, bringing expertise in single-molecule imaging to cancer research. She aims to develop 3D super-resolution microscopy techniques for understanding molecular mechanisms and potential targets for drug treatment.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 19, 2020

Rice University bioscientist Rosa Uribe wins NSF CAREER Award

Rosa Uribe's five-year grant will support the assembly of thousands of experiments on neural crest cells to understand their behaviors and characteristics. The research aims to map out various aspects of the early formation of the enteric nervous system, a complex mesh of nerves that regulates digestion and hormone balance.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 18, 2020

Rice boosts 'internet of things' security -- again

Rice University engineers have introduced a technique to make security for the 'internet of things' more than 14,000 times better than current state-of-the-art defenses. The new strategy leverages power regulators to obfuscate information leaked by encryption circuits.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 18, 2020

Heavy backpack? Good for you

A Rice University study found that public school students have healthier core strength than home-schooled children due to daily use of heavy backpacks. The research also revealed a disparity in push-up performance between the two groups, with public school students meeting requirements and home-schoolers narrowly missing them.

SourceRice University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Education·DateFeb 17, 2020
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.

Algae team rosters could help ID 'super corals'

Researchers have discovered that coral colonies with similar groups of algae survive better under stress. The study found that the symbiotic community diversity of dinoflagellates in good-performing corals is more constrained and works well together with their host, while poorly performing corals have less coordinated communities.

SourceRice University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Graphene forms under microscope's eye

Researchers at Rice University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a new method to produce laser-induced graphene (LIG) with features more than 60% smaller than traditional macro versions. This technique creates LIG with almost 10 times smaller dimensions, making it ideal for flexible electronics applications. The scientists su...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 12, 2020

Bayreuth researchers discover new arsenic compounds in rice fields

Researchers have developed a new measuring method to detect sulphur-containing arsenic compounds in rice soils, which have not been accounted for in health assessments. The study identifies the need for further research on the formation and transport of these compounds to assess health risks.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 11, 2020

Feds back Rice computer scientist's security strategy

Ang Chen, a Rice University assistant professor, has been awarded a $550,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop a new security strategy for future networks. His proposal, Poise, aims to make security an equally important goal as connectivity in the next-generation internet.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 10, 2020

No clear path for golden rice to reach consumers

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis reveals that many families at risk for Vitamin A deficiency can't grow Golden Rice, while commercial farmers won't plant it due to its breeding into existing lowland rice varieties.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalTechnology in Society·DateFeb 7, 2020
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.

Keeping a stiff upper lip can hurt your health following death of a loved one

A recent study from Rice University found that grieving spouses who expressed their emotions freely had lower levels of bodily inflammation than those who suppressed their emotions. The researchers also discovered that not all coping strategies are created equal, and some can backfire in intense emotional situations.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2020

NYU scientists sequence the genome of basmati rice

Researchers at New York University have sequenced the genome of two basmati rice varieties, including one with improved drought tolerance and resistance to bacterial disease. The study provides insights into the evolutionary history of basmati rice and its unique genetic traits.

SourceNew York University·JournalGenome Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Deep learning accurately forecasts heat waves, cold spells

Rice University engineers developed a deep learning system that uses capsule neural networks to predict extreme weather events, such as heat waves and winter storms, with high accuracy. The system achieves 85% accuracy in five-day forecasts by identifying patterns in pressure systems and regional areas.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·DateFeb 4, 2020

Grooves hold promise for sophisticated healing

Researchers at Rice University have created a grooved method to seed 3D-printed scaffolds with living cells, enabling the growth of different tissue types in a single platform. This innovative approach protects cells from heat and shear stresses, allowing for the creation of hard implants that can heal bone, cartilage, or muscle.

SourceRice University·JournalBioprinting·DateFeb 4, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Tumbleweeds or fibrils: Tau proteins need to choose

Tau proteins exhibit distinct aggregation behaviors, with phosphorylation influencing their formation of either solid fibrils or disordered clumps. The researchers' findings offer new insights into the causes of Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia, potentially leading to the development of therapeutic interventions.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020

Fed grant backs Rice earthquake research

Melodie French has earned a prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Award to support her research on the physics responsible for earthquakes. The grant will enable her lab to study rocks exhumed from subduction zones, characterizing the strength of rocks deep underground where plates meet.

SourceRice University·DateJan 31, 2020

Cells' springy coils pump bursts of RNA

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theoretical model explaining how RNA polymerase enzymes trigger bursts of RNA production in cells. The model suggests that DNA supercoils, like springs, are involved in the process, with RNA polymerases compressing and releasing tension to regulate protein production.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 30, 2020