News on the grants and awards that fuel scientific work. Covers federal grants, foundation awards, gene-editing and disease programs, and shifts in funding policy.
Researchers will investigate sleep patterns in adolescents with TBI, explore behavioral changes in individuals with spatial neglect, and develop a caregiver training program for TBI care. The studies aim to improve treatment outcomes and rehabilitation experiences for individuals with traumatic brain injury.
A Weill Cornell Medicine study found that over 15-fold more Haitians have early-onset heart failure than previously thought, with elevated blood pressure being the leading risk factor. The research suggests a shift in focus to early prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in low-income countries.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst study is tracking over 300 infants and preschoolers to assess the importance of napping on brain development. The research aims to identify the bioregulatory mechanisms involved in napping and its impact on memory, with findings expected to inform nap policies for young children.
The event, part of CoARA Boost project, examines current research assessment practices that perpetuate a 'publish or perish' culture. Discussants explore efforts such as DORA, FOLEC-CLACSO, and CoARA to promote openness, integrity, and equity.
The American Thoracic Society has recognized 15 individuals with the 2024 Respiratory Health Awards for their outstanding contributions to lung disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. These awards acknowledge leadership in research, education, or clinical care, as well as exemplary professionalism and humanism.
A George Mason University researcher is creating a website to tell the story of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) at its 50-year milestone. The website will feature oral history interviews, annotated photographs, and other resources documenting AISES's growth and impact.
Four Mason researchers are partnering with community stakeholders to create a transformative model for research translation, leveraging higher education resources to address climate change resilience. The project aims to develop sustainable and equitable communities across Virginia, utilizing $5.54 million in NSF funding.
A recent study published in Attention, Perception & Psychophysics found a correlation between pupil dilation and working memory. Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington discovered that individuals with better working memory had larger pupil dilations during tasks, indicating improved focus and attention.
Xianjun Hao has received a $50,000 grant from Riverside Technology, Inc. as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) AMSU-A CDR Products Support project. The funding will support research activities between February 2024 and February 2025.
A 23-year 'megadrought' in the western US is being studied by WVU researcher Steve Kannenberg to understand its effects on natural ecosystems, agricultural systems and human water resources. The research aims to identify areas with depleted groundwater and soil moisture, as well as assess carbon capture and storage in dryland plants.
The WVU Research Experience for Undergraduates program aims to solve real-world problems in Appalachia using mobile robotics. Students will conduct independent research in areas like drone navigation and swarming behaviors, focusing on enabling change with robotics tools.
Researchers led by Gavin Sacks found that molecular sulfur dioxide levels are key to preventing the rotten egg smell in canned wine. The team recommends maintaining low levels of SO2 and using epoxy liners to minimize hydrogen sulfide production. This could improve the aroma and lifespan of canned wines.
George Mason University Professor John Turner will receive $248,460 in funding from the Israel Institute to support a postdoctoral teaching fellow for three academic years. The grant aims to address a significant gap in curricula about modern Israel and its importance in contemporary politics and conflict.
A new international research project, RoboSapiens, aims to make industrial robots more adaptable and reliable by utilizing artificial intelligence. The project, led by Aarhus University, will focus on four use-cases: autonomous ships, human-robot interactions, warehouse robots, and laptop refurbishment.
Dr Emmanuel Defay has received an ERC grant to develop highly efficient technology converting waste heat into 100 watts of electrical power. The project aims for a 50% energy efficiency rate, applicable to various industries with high-quality or lower temperature waste heat.
Researchers will study wearable robotic assistance for chronic SCI, new assessment tools for spatial neglect, and a web-based job interview training tool for autistic youth. The studies aim to improve upper extremity movement function and employment outcomes for individuals with autism.
A new series of studies will test the effectiveness of PATCH, a USC-designed wearable device that accurately captures everyday activities. The device integrates multiple sensors to measure physical activity, sedentary time, and sleep in children.
The project, AI STORIES, aims to understand how artificial intelligence creates new narratives and challenges dominant American narratives. The research will test the hypothesis that AI-generated responses mimic sci-fi stories where AI gains human emotions.
A new study by Kessler Foundation scientist Glenn Wylie will independently investigate brain networks associated with 'state' fatigue in MS. The research aims to validate 'state' measures of fatigue and offer a more accurate assessment of primary fatigue, potentially improving the quality of life for individuals living with MS.
Researchers visualize chiral interface state at atomic scale for the first time, allowing on-demand creation of conducting channels. The technique has promise for building tunable networks of electron channels and advancing quantum computing.
The study introduces a novel surface micromachined accelerometer leveraging a silicon carbide-carbon nanotube (SiC-CNT) composite to offer unprecedented durability and performance in harsh environments. The SiC-CNT composite enables high aspect ratio structures crucial for MEMS devices' sensitivity and efficiency.
Scientists from Kessler Foundation received significant research grants to explore the social determinants of health among racial/ethnic groups during wheelchair breakdowns. The studies aim to understand the impact of transportation insecurity on individuals with chronic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI).
Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, enabling secure data transfer over long distances. The new method uses Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution to distribute quantum-encrypted keys via fibre optic cables, paving the way for a quantum-secure internet infrastructure.
Researchers from UNC-Chapel Hill develop a process using semiconductors and organic compounds to convert CO2 into carbon monoxide, producing a less harmful greenhouse gas. The method uses artificial photosynthesis and achieves 87% efficiency in converting CO2 into carbon monoxide.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a novel therapeutic strategy using existing medications to inhibit bone metastasis in breast cancer patients. The combination of drugs improved survival rates and reduced bone metastases in animal models and human tissue samples.
A long-term study found that coronary heart patients who live in greener areas have a significantly lower risk of mortality after undergoing bypass surgery. The study, which followed over 3,000 patients for 14 years, found that living in a green environment was associated with better chances of survival.
Researchers will explore health effects of fire exposure in the wildland-urban interface, measuring exposure risk and evaluating effective interventions such as rapid reporting of data and improved personal protective equipment. The study aims to reduce firefighter health risks and improve overall public health responses.
Kessler Foundation has received two grants to improve cognitive assessment for traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) patients and pilot-test a nationwide personal assistance services survey. The grants will support innovative research, including a hands-free eye-tracker-based cognitive assessment and a survey to assess the impact of perso...
The University of Leeds says Africa needs significant investment in scientific infrastructure and science careers to adapt to climate change. Gaps in understanding the science behind tropical weather systems hinder African weather forecasting, leaving half the population without early warnings.
The UK has committed $58.8 million to support the development of the EIC's detector and accelerator infrastructure, a seven-year international collaboration. The EIC aims to study the building blocks of nature, including quarks and gluons, to gain insights into the universe.
A recent Johns Hopkins Children's Center study reveals a significant negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth minority mental health. The research found increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among adolescents in racial and ethnic minorities, with Black females showing a 90.2% increase in suicidal thoughts.
Dr. Chana Sacks is the new Editor-in-Chief of NEJM Evidence, focusing on providing high-quality, practice-changing evidence for medical professionals. The journal aims to change how medical professionals think about generating evidence while making clinical learning engaging and fun.
Researchers found a 32% vaccine uptake among patients asked about receiving the flu shot and a 41% uptake for those who received a pamphlet, watched a video, and were told about benefits. The study suggests a systematic approach to increase vaccine uptake among underserved populations.
Leading investigators are creating a one-stop resource for human pancreatic data, standardizing and disseminating curated information on the human pancreas to foster collaborative and reproducible diabetes research. The PanKbase program aims to provide machine-actionable data following FAIR principles.
The EvidenceNOW initiative, launched by AHRQ in 2015, aimed to improve cardiovascular care in small and medium-sized primary care practices. The program provided external quality improvement support and funding to seven regions across the US, resulting in improved quality of care and heart health outcomes.
Scientists have found that climate change is altering the timing of plant and soil processes in the Alps, leading to disruptions in nutrient cycling and potentially threatening biodiversity. The high mountains are warming at a faster rate than surrounding areas, resulting in reduced snow cover and changes in vegetation patterns.
Developed by scientists from the University of Oxford, the LungVax vaccine uses technology similar to the highly successful Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine will train the immune system to recognise and attack abnormal lung cells with neoantigens.
The Integrating Finance & Biodiversity for a Nature Positive programme aims to build knowledge, tools, and collaboration to support sustainable investments. By incorporating biodiversity impact into financial decision-making, the programme seeks to reduce the global economy's damage and improve sustainability.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine research team found a cell surface protein that senses odors and chemicals may be responsible for the long-known difference in blood pressure between females and males. The study, published in Science Advances, used data from mice and humans to investigate the link between an odor sensor and blood pressure.
A researcher at the University of Arizona is using a $750,000 NIH grant to develop methodology for reducing asthma risks among nurses. Preliminary survey data suggest that nurses prioritize lower asthma risks over increased infection risks.
Scientists have developed a new method to manipulate light using synthetic dimension dynamics, enabling precise control over light propagation and confinement. This breakthrough has significant implications for applications such as mode lasing, quantum optics, and data transmission.
The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researcher is working with the Tachyon Project to create surrogate machine learning models that can simulate and analyze particle physics data in real-time. This project aims to improve scientific discovery and workflow performance for scientists at Fermilab and ALCF.
A research team at Lehigh University has received a three-year, $2 million grant from the Department of Energy to develop an alternative concrete binder using low-temperature calcined clays. The goal is to produce a material with properties similar to Ordinary Portland Cement but without greenhouse gas emissions.
A phase 3 trial co-led by a University of Cincinnati researcher found that subcutaneous levodopa delivery through an infusion pump is safe and effective in reducing symptoms for longer periods. The study resulted in almost two hours of additional 'on time' compared to traditional oral medication, paving the way for potential FDA approval.
Recent advancements in terahertz radiation reveal the physical processes involved in quantum materials. The study highlights the exploration of THz emission in topological insulators and semimetals, multiferroics, and superconductors, shedding light on their fundamental physics.
The REMASS project aims to understand how crises impact resource consumption, sustainability, inequality, and social wellbeing. The team will analyze the adaptability of resource utilization and its impact on social wellbeing through a comprehensive database on society's metabolism.
Researchers at Cornell University found higher bacterial counts in single-serving milks packaged in small paperboard containers, particularly after seven and 14 days of storage. The study suggests that carton-filling machinery may contribute to these higher counts, highlighting the need for improved cleaning and sanitation protocols.
Scientists discovered a shift in gene regulation by enhancers during embryonic development, showing both 'instructive' and 'permissive' modes of regulation. The study found that developmental stage determines which mode is dominant, allowing for rapid gene expression changes and tissue-specific control systems.
A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has demonstrated a technique to study chemical properties of lithium-ion battery cells by exploiting the Peltier effect. This allows them to experimentally measure the entropy of the lithium-ion electrolyte, which could inform lithium-ion battery design.
Researchers have developed a copper(II)-alkylperoxo complex that can selectively oxidize unactivated alkanes, showcasing exceptional reactivity and paving the way for sustainable technology. By manipulating the solvent environment, the team uncovered the unique properties of their catalyst.
The study reveals insights into topological materials by visualizing the motion of coupled pendula, reproducing behaviors of electrons in periodic systems. The researchers directly measure Bloch oscillations and Zener tunneling phenomena, previously impossible to observe in quantum systems.
The lack of standardized controls in lifespan studies leads to misleading outcomes and makes it difficult to compare results. Researchers propose solutions for quality control by checking inter- and intra-study consistency of lifespan data.
A Texas A&M professor will lead a team in evaluating the distribution and potential hazard of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in East Palestine, Ohio, using a mobile platform. The research aims to inform response methods to measuring air quality following environmental disasters.
Nai-Hui Chia, an assistant professor of computer science at Rice University, has received a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to develop a new theoretical framework for efficient quantum algorithms. The grant aims to enhance the security of quantum cryptography and tackle complex problems in physics and machine learning.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin are exploring natural catalysts to produce hydrogen gas from iron-rich rocks without emitting CO2. This process, known as geologic hydrogen production, has the potential to significantly increase global hydrogen production and offer a low-carbon emission footprint.
Yonglong Xie, a Rice University assistant professor, has received an $888,555 NSF CAREER Award to explore magnon-based quantum technology. He aims to create synthetic matter and next-generation devices with unprecedented functionalities.
Dr. Pieter Gunnink receives a €190,000 grant to develop a theoretical framework for enhancing spin current transport in open magnon systems. This project aims to enable new information processing techniques using spintronics. The EU's Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program supports researchers at all career stages.
A Cancer Research UK-funded study uses AI to identify two distinct subtypes of prostate cancer, termed evotypes, which could lead to personalized treatments. The discovery has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes, saving thousands of lives in the future.
Researchers found that the SYNGAP1 gene has a dual function in regulating synapses and synaptic plasticity, which may lead to new treatments for children with SYNGAP1 mutations. The study suggests that targeting just one aspect of SynGAP's function is not enough to have a significant impact.
Researchers developed a deep learning algorithm to remove probe effects from AFM images, enabling the resolution of material features smaller than the probe's tip. This breakthrough allows for accurate three-dimensional surface profiles, crucial for nanoelectronics development and scientific studies.