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IRCM researchers uncover a new piece of the puzzle in the development of our nervous system

Researchers at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM) have made a breakthrough in understanding how neurons connect and communicate. Drs. Artur Kania and Tzu-Jen Kao discovered that axon guidance is modulated by ligands present within the same neuron, leading to increased diversity of neuronal connections.

NYU physicists develop potent packing process

New York University physicists have developed a method for packing microscopic spheres that can improve various commercial products, such as pharmaceutical lotions and ice cream. The researchers manipulated the properties of emulsions using statistical mechanics and depletion attraction to create materials with desired properties.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2011

Overfertilizing corn undermines ethanol

A new study by Rice University researchers reveals that overfertilizing corn crops for ethanol production can lead to decreased cellulose content in plant residues, making it more difficult to extract ethanol. The study suggests using less fertilizer can improve feedstock quality and alleviate environmental damage.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 25, 2011

New clues uncover how 'starvation hormone' works, investigators at UT Southwestern report

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a key mechanism by which the 'starvation hormone' adiponectin functions, promoting cell survival and inhibiting cell death in both pancreatic beta cells and cardiomyocytes. This finding has implications for treating conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 26, 2010

How do you cut a nanotube? Lots of compression

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to cut single-walled carbon nanotubes with precision, enabling the creation of higher-quality nanotubes for various applications. The technique involves sonicating the nanotubes in water, causing them to fracture due to compressive atom ejection.

Better batteries from the bottom up

Rice University researchers have developed microbatteries with nanowire 'hearts' that can store more energy and charge faster than traditional lithium-ion batteries. The batteries employ vertical arrays of nickel-tin nanowires encased in a PMMA polymer, which insulates the wires and allows ions to pass through.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 9, 2010

Not-so-confidential confidantes

Researchers found that as few as three co-located images at different times and places can predict high probability of two people being socially connected. This study uses Flickr data to demonstrate the power of online data in revealing social ties, with implications for online privacy.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2010

UNH researcher helps identify key reproductive hormone in oldest vertebrate

Researchers have identified the first reproductive hormone of the hagfish, a gonadatropin, which plays a crucial role in regulating sex steroid hormones and reproduction. This breakthrough helps unravel the mystery of hagfish reproduction, shedding light on their unique evolutionary position as the oldest living vertebrate.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2010

Technology transfer and postdoc entrepreneurs

A study published in the International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development found that postdoctoral researchers see technology transfer as important but few are actively preparing for self-employment. Initial wealth was a distinguishing factor among those who were self-employed.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Knowledge-Based Development·DateOct 4, 2010

Stretched polymer snaps back smaller than it started

A team of researchers at Duke and Stanford have found a polymer molecule that can trigger a chemical reaction when stretched, enabling it to build its own repairs. The molecule, called a gem-difluorocyclopropane (gDFC), snaps back smaller than before after stretching, potentially leading to the development of self-healing materials.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateAug 26, 2010

Brown University awarded $15.5-million math institute

The Institute for Computational and Experimental Research in Mathematics (ICERM) will leverage internationally recognized programs to create long-term research programs and scholarly conferences. The institute aims to solve new problems of critical importance and benefit to society through collaboration with industries.