Treating COVID-19
MEDICINE
An analysis of clinical data from COVID-19 patients treated in 20 U.S. hospitals could help doctors predict the severity of an infected individual’s symptoms. Researchers at Drexel University’s College of Medicine contributed to a study that identified cellular and molecular factors associated with severe disease and death, which could alert physicians to high-risk patients.
Kids Help to Thwart Online Predators
COMPUTING & INFORMATICS
Young users of social media channels are helping to build a machine learning program that can flag unwanted sexual advances on Instagram while also protecting users’ privacy. The project, involving researchers in the College of Computing & Informatics and other universities, aims to curb sexual exploitation of children and teens that surged during the pandemic.
Ants Shed Light on Animal Responses to Climate Change
BIOLOGY
A study of army ants gave researchers in the College of Arts and Sciences abundant new insights about animals’ adaptation to extreme temperature change and an evolving habitat. Their findings included the discovery of great variance in colonies’ tolerance of minimum and maximum temperatures.
On the Trail of ‘Forever Chemicals’
ENGINEERING
The same microbes that break down biodegradable materials appear to play a role in releasing notorious per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into the environment, a team led by researchers in the College of Engineering have discovered. PFAS are chemicals widely used in consumer products that have been linked to cancers and other disorders. They never break down and can leach out of fertilizer made from recycled waste, aided by microbial decomposition, the researchers found.
Like an Eye Over Troubled Bridges
ENGINEERING
A solar-powered, wireless sensor system devised by researchers in the College of Engineering continually monitors the condition of bridges and could be used to alert authorities to structural deformation. Running on photovoltaic power, the system could help inspectors triage repairs for the nation’s bridges, 40% of which are more than 50 years old.
Energy Efficient Urban Planning Via Machine Learning
ENGINEERING
A model developed in the College of Engineering can reduce Philadelphia’s greenhouse gas emissions by anticipating how neighborhood change will affect energy consumption. The model helps planners compensate for the diversity of Philadelphia’s building stock, putting a city goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 within reach.
Screening Tool Proven Effective When Used as Intended
COMPUTING & AUTISM
After combing through two decades’ worth of studies, Drexel researchers confirmed that a tool developed and refined at the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute is reliable in identifying individuals with autism, provided that screeners follow recommended protocols.
AI Pinpoints Weakness in Aging Structures
ENGINEERING
By combining artificial intelligence with a classic mathematical method for quantifying web-like networks, researchers in the College of Engineering can interpret patterns of cracking to assess vulnerabilities in concrete structures. The methodology could speed and enhance inspections of aging bridges, roadways and buildings.