University of Rhode Island

Cancer

Homing missile molecule eradicates even advanced cancers in mice

Researchers have demonstrated a new technique to fight cancer by attaching immunotherapy drugs to a molecule that seeks out the acidic environment of cancer cells. In tests in mice, a single dose was enough to eradicate even advanced tumors.

One of the "smart" bandages, which could be manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes

Body and Mind

Smart bandage would use light to indicate infections

While it's important to check wounds for infections, removing the dressing in order to do so can be disruptive to the healing process. A new smart bandage could help, by "glowing" in a certain way if an infection is beginning.

The sediment cores taken from the seafloor, which were found to contain living bacteria from 100 million years ago

Science

Scientists revive 100-million-year old microbes from deep underground

In what sounds like the opening of a sci-fi movie, scientists have revived microorganisms that have laid dormant for 100 million years. These microbes were found deep beneath the seafloor, where they’ve been slumbering since the age of dinosaurs.

Lasers have been found to make effective scarecrows against birds such as starlings and red-winged blackbirds

Environment

Laser scarecrows helps keep cornfields clear of bird pests

A new laser "scarecrow" is helping farmers to protect their sweetcorn crops from marauding birds.

Extracts from summer or fall red maple leaves have been formulated into a powder that could be incorporated in skincare products to prevent wrinkles

Wellness and Healthy Living

Maple leaves may hold the key to wrinkle-prevention

As we age, an enzyme in our skin known as elastase breaks down the elasticity-maintaining protein elastin, causing wrinkles to form. Now, however, scientists have developed a natural product that may keep this from happening – and it utilizes maple leaves.