September 2010
Hepatitis C virus faces new weapon from Florida State scientists
In recent human trials for a promising new class of drug designed to target the hepatitis C virus (HCV) without shutting down the immune system, some of the HCV strains being treated exhibited signs of drug resistance.
Talking while walking puts Parkinson's patients at risk for falls
We've all heard the saying about people who can't walk and chew gum at the same time, but it turns out that walking and talking is difficult enough, especially for people with Parkinson's disease who are at increased risk for falls with injury.
Florida State scientist joins global study of decomposing permafrost
Florida State University oceanographer Jeff Chanton is part of an international team embarking on a new study of permafrost decomposition in arctic Sweden. What he and his fellow researchers discover there may be critical given the permafrost's key role in climate change, and vice versa.
Ruby Diamond Auditorium's Grand Reopening to feature new works, Florida State ensembles
Soon the curtains will rise and music will fill the air once again at Ruby Diamond Auditorium now that a two-year-long renovation and expansion has transformed it from a general-purpose venue to a world-class performance hall.
Florida State's Abele, one of nation's most highly regarded provosts, to step down
Lawrence G. Abele announced today that he will step down from the position of provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs at The Florida State University at the end of the fall semester. At that time he will devote his full attention to the Institute for Academic Leadership, a statewide program for new academic administrators.
Researchers to study exploded stars
A pair of Florida State University astrophysicists have received new three-year grants totaling $738,000 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to advance their research on space phenomena known as supernovae. Such research could yield new understanding of a mysterious force known as dark energy that is believed to account for the vast majority of the energy in the universe.
Researchers team up with teachers on web-based system for math, science instruction
A doctor records his patients' symptoms on a tiny laptop computer, receiving instant, expert feedback for his diagnosis. A police officer gets a suspect's rap sheet in minutes, thanks to the cruiser-installed computer connecting her to critical public safety data. Even the cashier at the fast-food joint uses a high-tech system to process your order of burger and fries.
Agreement inked on innovative carbon nanotube technology; could lead to cheaper, more efficient fuel cells
A Florida State University engineering professor's innovative research with nanomaterials could one day lead to a new generation of hydrogen fuel cells that are less expensive, smaller, lighter and more durable — advantages that might make them a viable option for widespread use in automobiles and in military and industrial technology.
Mazza named dean of College of Social Work
Florida State University Provost and Executive Vice President Lawrence G. Abele has announced the appointment of Nicholas Mazza as dean of the College of Social Work effective immediately.
How cells manage genes is focus of new NSF-funded study
In a field of maize, no two leafy stalks of multicolored corn will look exactly the same, even though they grew from seed cells with identical genetic material.
Tuition hikes won't cut access for students in financial need, Barron says
When it comes to higher education, there are two major issues in the news: first, the rising cost of education, with the need to keep tuition and fees under control, and second, the view that higher tuition will make college less accessible to our students.
NSF funds next-generation wind tunnel for aviation research
A multi-university research center headquartered at The Florida State University has received a major grant that will enable it to pursue advances in aviation and aerospace technologies.
Florida State University researchers taking lead on Gulf oil spill studies
Two groups of Florida State researchers have won grants to study different aspects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Florida State criminologist leads analysis of DNA impact on grades
The academic performance of adolescents will suffer in at least one of four key subjects — English, math, science, history — if their DNA contains one or more of three specific dopamine gene variations, according to a study led by renowned biosocial criminologist Kevin M. Beaver of The Florida State University.
Researcher wins $1.8M grant to find out why anxiety targets women
Anxiety disorders afflict women twice as often as men, but estrogen might not be the reason. Testosterone, though, could be.