Science and Technology

The NMDA receptor, a brain protein crucial for learning and memory, can function as a "frequency discriminator," translating stimulation frequency into current amplitude and possibly deciding whether the neuron will learn to become more or less receptive to future experiences, University of Buffalo biophysicists have revealed.

An exciting, new dual master's-degree program offered by the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning exemplifies the interdisciplinary exchange provoked by the effect of the digital technology revolution on the field of architecture.

A University at Buffalo research team has invented a new way to synthesize quantum dots -- luminescent nanocrystals made from semiconductor material that have the potential to be used to build exciting new devices for biological and environmental sensing, quantum computing, lasers and telecommunications.

An introductory course in biological sciences at the University at Buffalo that introduces non-science majors to the scientific method makes the sometimes dreaded laboratory experience more palatable by allowing them to decide where and when they want to do their required labs.

In an unprecedented decision, the Canadian Centre for Architecture (CAA) in Montreal, one of the most distinguished interdisciplinary architectural research centers and museums in the world, will present prestigious annual visiting fellowships to two faculty members at the same school -- the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning.

Be sure to pay attention to the suits that male swimmers wear when they compete in this year's Olympic Games. Swimmers wearing a suit covering their torso from shoulder to knee or ankle should have a performance edge over competitors wearing suits that provide less body coverage, a study conducted at the University at Buffalo has shown.

Approximately 12 miles of new fiber-optic cable has been constructed by the University at Buffalo and over the next few weeks will be "lit," enhancing high-speed data links between UB's campuses and with affiliated research institutions, an essential step toward creation of a life-sciences economy for the region.

Researchers from the Virtual Reality Lab at the University at Buffalo have developed a new tool for transmitting physical touch to the virtual world. Their virtual clay sculpting system enables users to replicate in real time on a personal computer the physical act of sculpting a block of clay or other malleable material.

A tarantula venom peptide, GsMTx4, known to affect many organs, can be manipulated to withstand destruction in the stomach, making it a promising candidate for drugs that could treat cardiac arrhythmias, muscular dystrophy and many other conditions, University at Buffalo biophysicists have shown.

"Vitruvius" is the name given to a new home designed by Heartland Homes in collaboration with the Research Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDEA Lab) in the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning.