Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new way to decrease zinc oxide's thermal conductivity without reducing its electrical conductivity by adding aluminum. This innovation could lead to new technologies for harvesting waste heat and creating energy-efficient systems, such as cars, aircraft, and power plants.
A new study reveals that tobacco companies were aware of cigarette radioactivity since the 1950s and conducted research on its effects. The industry used misleading statements to suppress information, including a technique that could have eliminated radioactive particles from tobacco.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a new catalyst that transforms amides into desired chemical products efficiently and safely, producing no by-products or hazardous waste. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the chemical industry from an economic and green perspective.
Researchers found elevated levels of radioactivity in San Francisco Bay area rainwater after the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant accident, but at non-health-risking concentrations. The study collected samples from March 16th to March 26th and detected above-normal radioactivity starting on March 18th.
The researchers have received two grants to further develop the steam hydrogasification process that turns waste from food, yards, and other sources into transportation fuels or natural gas. The process has been found to be 12% more efficient and 18% less expensive than other mainstream gasification technologies.
An international research team has shown that an investigational agent that sticks onto the surface of tumor cells can effectively image tumors. The 'antagonist', 111In-DOTA-BASS, outperformed the widely used 'agonist' agent, OctreoScan, in detecting neuroendocrine tumors.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory detected radioactive materials from Fukushima in the US, providing insight into the disaster's magnitude. The findings demonstrate huge advancements in nuclear monitoring technology.
Researchers at UNH's Space Science Center are developing a highly sensitive instrument to detect illicit radioactive materials with pinpoint accuracy. The Portable Neutron Spectroscope can identify hazardous nuclear materials by analyzing radiation patterns and velocity.
The system produces enough electricity to power 35 homes for a year and prevents the release of greenhouse gases equivalent to nearly 5,000 metric tons of CO2 per year. The pilot project demonstrates how hog farms can manage waste, reduce emissions, and generate on-farm renewable power.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have developed a new material, SLUG-26, that can trap negatively-charged pollutants from water. The material, which has a high capacity for holding onto negative ions, could be used to treat polluted water through an ion exchange process.
Digital waste in computers can deplete storage space and slow down systems. Researchers suggest a five-tier pyramid of options to curb the clutter: reduce, reuse, recycle, recover, and dispose. By applying real-world trash management tactics, computers can be cleansed of unnecessary data.
A recent study by Dr. Andrea Ballabio and colleagues discovered a key role for transcription factor EB (TFEB) in regulating lysosomal exocytosis, which can rescue cells from toxic waste buildup. The findings suggest an innovative approach to treating metabolic disorders associated with lysosomal storage diseases.
A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that thyroid cancer treatment varies greatly depending on where patients receive care. Radioactive iodine treatment is being used more frequently overall, but hospital factors play a significant role in its use, accounting for 29% of variation.
A study found a significant increase in use of radioactive iodine after surgery for well-differentiated thyroid cancer, with variation in practice patterns among hospitals. The use was more common in younger patients without comorbidities and those with lower tumor stages.
Researchers measured a spike in radioactive sulfur in the air, revealing that 400 billion neutrons were released per square meter surface of cooling pools between March 13 and March 20, 2011. The levels reached California coast, but posed no threat to human health.
A Kansas State University physicist led a team gathering precise measurements of the Earth's radioactivity, revealing that radioactive decay is responsible for about half of the planet's heat. The study provides insight into the Earth's interior and helps geologists understand models for plate movement, magnetic fields, and volcanoes.
Researchers at MIT have developed tiny robots to inspect underground pipes in nuclear reactors, detecting corrosion and radioactive leaks. The robots can withstand extreme environments and transmit images in real-time, enabling safer operation of aged reactors.
KamLAND collaboration measures radioactive decay of uranium, thorium, and potassium in Earth's crust and mantle to estimate heat energy. The new estimate is precise enough to aid in refining accepted geophysical models, suggesting that radioactive decay supplies only about half the Earth's heat.
Wake Forest University and Fisk University have partnered to create crystals that can accurately detect nuclear threats, radioactive material, and chemical bombs. The $900,000 grant will support research in radiation detection, leading to improved detector devices for screening cargo and passengers.
The EUREKA project BIO-EXPERTISE has developed a methodological guide to biomethanisation, allowing for more efficient waste treatment in Spain. The research improved the treatment of urban waste, increasing biogas production and electricity generation.
A multidisciplinary team will collect water and biological samples, take ocean current measurements, and analyze radionuclides to understand the impact of radiation on marine life and human health. The expedition aims to establish a baseline for radioactive contaminants in the ocean.
Researchers found that women with estrogen receptor negative cancers who did not receive radiation were 91% more likely to die from breast cancer. There is a corresponding increase in the use of radioactive implants for these patients.
E-waste has been linked to adverse effects on human health, including inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and cancer. Researchers found significant increases in inflammatory response and oxidative stress markers in lung epithelial cells exposed to e-waste air samples.
A novel way to immobilise radioactive forms of iodine using a microwave has been discovered by Professor Neil Hyatt at the University of Sheffield. The method uses Pb5(VO4)3I, a solid material that can safely contain radionuclides like iodine-129, reducing long-term health risks from environmental release.
Researchers analyzed 198 cases of differentiated thyroid cancer patients in Japan and found that delaying treatment beyond 180 days increased mortality risk. The Society of Nuclear Medicine supports maintaining current regulations, citing existing scientific evidence as safe for patients and the public.
The US EPA is collaborating with the United Nations University to develop strategies for managing electronic waste (e-waste) in Africa and Asia. The five-year agreement will support research, tracking, data collection, analysis, and information sharing to improve e-waste refurbishment and disposal.
New studies on Fukushima's aftermath might uncover more accurate estimates of health consequences of nuclear power plant accidents, including thyroid cancer risks for children and young adults. The authors also highlight the psychological burden of nuclear disasters on those affected.
Researchers used data mining to analyze the corrosion-resistant properties of Alloy 22, a key material for nuclear waste containment. They found that the alloy can predict future corrosion patterns under similar environmental conditions.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a material that can bind and trap radioactive iodide in drinking water, making it safe for human consumption. The material, which combines hemicellulose and chitosan, can also extract heavy metals from water, providing a sustainable solution for desalination.
A new study reveals that concentrated fish farm waste plumes do not consistently dilute immediately in open water. The research found that tides, currents, and the earth's rotation can dramatically affect how far waste plumes travel from their source.
Researchers use Closterium moniliferum algae to remove strontium, a major component of nuclear waste, by sequestering it in solid crystals. The algae's ability to differentiate between strontium and calcium can help isolate highly radioactive 'high-level' waste from 'low-level' waste.
Scientists have developed a new process that converts used motor oil into gasoline-like fuel using microwaves, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. The new method has excellent potential for commercial use and could help solve the problem of improper disposal of waste motor oil.
The University of Cincinnati has developed a highly sensitive sensor combining electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and selective partitioning to detect compounds in low concentrations. The three-mode sensor has been tested in various settings, including nuclear waste storage tanks and superfund sites.
Green rust, a type of clay, has been found to effectively capture and contain neptunium, a radioactive waste product that poses a serious health risk. The discovery offers new insights into the disposal of radioactive waste and could lead to safer storage solutions.
A new device called the in situ sampler (IS2) is being used to monitor waste in groundwater without generating significant amounts of hazardous waste. The IS2 boasts extremely low detection limits and produces no wastewater, making it a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods.
The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) has developed a primary standard for the measurement of short-lived radioactive thoron, allowing for accurate calibration of thoron measuring instruments. This enables the estimation of risks associated with thoron exposure through its progenies.
The US lags behind other countries in nuclear fuel recycling due to unfounded concerns and myths. Reprocessing spent fuel can recover significant energy value and reduce high-level nuclear waste volume.
Despite minimum recycling targets, Spanish cities struggle with paper and container waste separation. Only glass meets the 60% requirement, while plastic and metal waste are far below target. The study highlights the need for more efficient collection systems to increase recycling rates.
A team of researchers from Denmark and Japan have developed a new technology to convert waste heat into electricity using oxide materials. The project aims to integrate the technology into existing systems and reduce CO2 emissions, potentially enabling the use of thermoelectric material in various applications such as cars and stoves.
The SRNL filter design uses a patented rotary microfilter to separate solid material from radioactive liquid waste, reducing costs and infrastructure for high-level waste disposal. The adapted system is now being tested at the Hanford Site and made available for other potential users.
Researchers in India have found that various kitchen waste water filtration systems can produce clean water suitable for agricultural or horticultural use. Ceramic microfiltration membrane systems with physicochemical treatments such as biotreatment and adsorption showed promising results, removing up to 98% of BOD and 99% of COD.
The measured magnetic field strength of 25 Gauss is significantly stronger than the 5-Gauss weak field or the 100-Gauss strong field that would imply large radioactive decay contributions. The result constrains heat sources in the core, with the outer core likely producing 60% of the planet's power.
A study found that plants growing in contaminated soil near the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant adapt by altering certain proteins involved in cell signaling, allowing them to thrive in highly radioactive environments. Only about five percent of proteins were altered, suggesting a surprising resilience.
A study reviews nuclear power economics and concludes that the current fuel cycle is unsustainable due to uncertainty about waste management. Reprocessing and recycling of spent fuel is an alternative, but its implementation is controversial due to proliferation risks and high costs.
Researchers have trained bacteria to efficiently convert sugars in agricultural bio-wastes into valuable chemicals for bioplastics. The optimized process enables the production of high-quality bioplastics from waste materials, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
A new international population study led by the University of Cincinnati examines the human developmental effects of environmental exposure to complex metal mixtures found in electronic waste. The research aims to identify potential preventative measures to reduce human exposures, particularly for pregnant women and young children livi...
University of Maryland researchers developed a scheme to detect concealed radioactive material without searching containers one by one. The concept uses gamma-ray emission from the material ionizing the surrounding air, facilitated by high-power, coherent terahertz or infrared radiation.
Researchers propose that Enceladus' libration, a slight wobble as it rotates, could be responsible for generating heat and keeping its ocean liquid. This finding is significant in the search for life, as it suggests that the moon's environment may be stable enough to support development.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new method for converting waste vegetable oil into biodiesel fuel, using a single reaction vessel and environmentally friendly catalysts. The process is six times faster than current methods, consuming less energy and reducing the use of toxic chemicals.
Researchers tested the hypothesis that solar radiation affects radioactive decay rates and found no detectable effect. The study used radioactive gold-198 in two shapes to compare neutrino emission rates, ruling out solar neutrinos as a factor.
Researchers found that plants growing in contaminated soil near Chernobyl have limited biochemical changes, suggesting adaptations to withstand radiation. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms enabling plant survival in highly radioactive environments.
Scientists warn of a global shortage of medical isotopes, used for diagnostic and treatment procedures, putting patient care at risk. The lack of these life-saving materials could lead to less accurate tests, higher radiation doses, and increased healthcare costs.
Researchers found that solar flares can affect the decay rate of certain radioactive elements on Earth. This effect is likely caused by solar neutrinos emitted by the sun. The study's findings could lead to a new method for predicting solar flares and protecting satellites from damage.
A global shortage of medical isotopes, used in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, poses a threat to patient care and may force doctors to use less accurate tests. The shortage is attributed to the unexpected shutdown of major isotope production facilities, leaving only 10-15% of isotopes produced domestically.
A special White House panel on high-level radioactive waste needs to focus more on social and political acceptability. Public mistrust has fueled failed attempts to effectively work with those affected, and addressing this is crucial for developing a publicly acceptable solution.
A renewed federal effort to fix the nation's stalled nuclear waste program is focusing too much on technological issues, neglecting public mistrust. Social science experts warn that ignoring these concerns increases the chances of repeating past failures, such as Yucca Mountain.
Researchers at Risø National Laboratory are producing radioisotopes for medical diagnostics and therapy, as well as research and development of new technologies. The production has increased significantly due to growing demand from PET-CT scanning, with seven cyclotrons operating in Denmark.
Researchers developed a new radiotracer, florbetapir F18, to distinguish between Alzheimer's disease patients and healthy volunteers on brain scans. The compound has a longer half-life than previous options, allowing for more widespread use and potential applications in diagnosing dementia and tracking disease progression.
The developing world is projected to generate twice as much electronic waste (e-waste) as developed countries by 2030, with 400-700 million PCs discarded annually. Technological advances have led to a rapid decline in consumer electronics lifespan, prompting concerns about environmentally safe disposal methods.
Researchers developed a method to measure the stability of organic waste using respiration indices, which can predict biodegradable content and facilitate efficient treatment facility design. The study applies this methodology to various types of organic wastes, including food and garden waste, municipal solid waste, and sludge.