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Cry me a river of possibility: Scientists design new adaptive material inspired by tears

Researchers at Harvard University developed a tunable material system that can adapt to different environments, functions like self-adjusting contact lenses, pipelines, and textile materials. The bioinspired material is a continuous liquid film that changes shape in response to deformation, offering fine control over various properties.

Harvard's Wyss Institute awarded DARPA contract to further advance sepsis therapeutic device

The Wyss Institute has received a $9.25 million contract from DARPA to advance its sepsis therapeutic device, which uses magnetic nanobeads to cleanse the blood of pathogens without removing human cells or fluids. The technology has shown promise in treating deadly bloodstream infections that kill critically ill patients and soldiers.

New player in electron field emitter technology makes for better imaging and communications

Scientists at NIST and University of Maryland have developed a practical high-efficiency nanostructured electron source, leading to improved microwave communications and X-ray imaging systems. The new technology offers faster response times, reliability, and reduced power consumption compared to traditional thermionic sources.

Atoms with quantum memory

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered an intermediate state between order and disorder in ultra cold Bose-Einstein condensates. This prethermalized state retains quantum memory for a surprisingly long time, characterized by a new length scale that emerges from the initial quantum gas.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013

Connecting the (quantum) dots

Scientists develop a method to preserve quantum bits (qubits) for longer periods, using hole spins instead of electron spins. This breakthrough brings the researchers closer to creating the first viable high-speed quantum computer.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 26, 2013

Extreme winters impact fish negatively

Research at Umea University found that extreme winter conditions impact fish negatively, particularly in streams and rivers with radical flow changes and anchor ice formation. The study highlights the need for more measurements and consideration of winter conditions in models to manage streams and rivers sustainably.

SourceUmea University·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 15, 2013

Stay cool and live longer?

Researchers discovered a genetic program that promotes longevity in roundworms at cold temperatures and found it exists in humans. The study links calcium signaling to aging for the first time, suggesting exposure to cold air or stimulation of this genetic program may promote mammalian longevity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell·DateFeb 14, 2013

Flexible classroom design saves money, improves flexibility, accessibility of instruction

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a flexible classroom design that slashes administrative costs while improving engagement and accessibility for students. The design allows instructors to adjust the layout according to student needs, making it easier for students with special needs to participate.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalComputers and Composition·DateFeb 5, 2013

Nanoparticles digging the world's smallest tunnels

Scientists at KIT and Rice University successfully dug the world's smallest tunnels into graphite samples, opening doors to structuring of materials on a nanometer scale. The creation of porous graphite with tailored pore sizes could enhance lithium-ion battery performance and enable long-term drug delivery in medicine.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2013

Fusion gene contributes to glioblastoma progression

Researchers identified a fusion between FGFR3 and TACC3 genes in human glioblastoma samples, which promoted tumor growth and progression in a mouse model. The fusion protein escaped regulation by miR-99a, indicating its potential as a prognostic marker and drug target for glioblastoma treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2013

Stretchable electronics

Stretchable electronics are being developed to enhance device durability and functionality. Bingqing Wei's research group has made significant progress in creating scalable, stretchable power sources for flexible electronics using carbon nanotube macrofilms, polyurethane membranes and organic electrolytes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 14, 2012

Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors name Environmental Engineering Science as its official journal

The Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors (AEESP) has selected Environmental Engineering Science as its official journal, promoting innovative solutions to environmental problems. The journal will publish state-of-the-art studies on air, water, and land contamination and waste disposal.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateDec 13, 2012

Mobile app boosts weight loss by 15 pounds

A new Northwestern University study found that a mobile app tracking calories and activity, combined with regular nutrition and exercise classes, helped participants lose an average of 15 pounds and maintain weight loss for at least a year. The technology alone was not enough to achieve significant weight loss.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 10, 2012