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Hassles with child car seats linked to unsafe child passenger behaviors

A study published in Academic Pediatrics found that parents who reported more child car seat hassles were less likely to follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations on child passenger safety. Parents who identified more hassles were more likely to have their children travel unrestrained or not use a car seat consistently.

Spicy perfection isn't to prevent infection

A new study from Australian National University suggests that spicy foods are more commonly used in hot climates, but finds no clear reason for this trend. The researchers analyzed over 33,000 recipes and found a significant relationship between spice use and life expectancy, as well as other health outcomes.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateFeb 4, 2021

How to get more electric cars on the road

A new study from MIT researchers reveals that installing charging stations on residential streets and adding high-speed charging stations along highways can greatly increase the adoption of electric cars. The findings suggest that making convenient charging options available to people, especially those with limited access to garages or...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 21, 2021

Super surfaces

The development of programmable metasurfaces at Princeton University has the potential to significantly increase data transmission rates in wireless systems. The technology uses terahertz waves to focus transmissions in specific directions, overcoming challenges such as obstacles and distance limitations. This breakthrough could enable...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Electronics·DateJan 4, 2021

Studying trust in autonomous products

A Stanford University study reveals that users' moods play a significant role in shaping their trust in smart technologies. The research found that participants trusted devices more when they were in a positive mood, regardless of the experiment's intent. However, user trust also differed by age group, gender, and education level, with...

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of Mechanical Design·DateDec 8, 2020

How automated vehicles can impede driver performance, and what to do about it

A University of Toronto study found that drivers can become over-reliant on automated vehicle displays, leading to decreased monitoring of the road. In contrast, an in-vehicle display system providing information on surrounding traffic showed promise in ensuring driving safety by keeping drivers engaged and attentive.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateDec 1, 2020

New graph-based statistical method detects threats to vehicular communications networks

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a cost-effective way to detect security threats in vehicle networks using graph-based anomaly detection techniques. This simple method requires less energy than machine learning or AI methods and can be easily adapted by car manufacturers.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateNov 24, 2020

The chemistry behind self-driving cars

A new article explains how chemistry can help develop materials necessary for fully autonomous vehicles, including efficient batteries and structural materials. Safety features such as sensors and nonstick coatings are also crucial to reducing maintenance and enhancing safety.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 28, 2020

Rice rolls out next-gen nanocars

Researchers at Rice University have designed new nanocars with permanent dipole moments to increase their speed and drivability on a gold surface. The cars, weighing 114 atoms, will be driven via the internet by teams worldwide, competing in the 2022 international Nanocar Race.

Subsidized cars help low-income families economically, socially

A study published in the Journal of Planning Education and Research found that subsidized car ownership has a transformative impact on low-income families, allowing them to access better education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The research also highlighted the importance of considering the broader social benefits of car ow...

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·DateOct 2, 2020

The accident preventers

Researchers at TUM have developed a software module that analyzes and predicts events while driving, ensuring the vehicle will not cause accidents. The system determines movement options and emergency maneuvers to prevent collisions, using simplified dynamic models for swift calculations.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateSep 16, 2020

Predicting the slow death of lithium-ion batteries

A new algorithm developed by Stanford University scientists can accurately predict the remaining storage capacity and charge level of lithium-ion batteries in real-time. This innovation has the potential to enable smaller battery packs and greater driving ranges in electric vehicles, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceStanford University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology·DateSep 14, 2020

Comprehensive look at US fuel economy standards show big savings on fuel and emissions

The US fuel economy standards have been effective in reducing reliance on foreign oil and greenhouse gas emissions, saving consumers $5 trillion in fuel costs. The standards also prevented 14 billion metric tons of carbon from being released into the atmosphere, equivalent to eliminating all US emissions for nearly three years.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnergy Policy·DateSep 3, 2020

Idle threat

Researchers aim to curb idling, a main source of pollution, by using displays similar to speed limit signs. The system will collect and integrate air-quality measurements, local weather conditions, and thermal images to provide feedback to drivers.

Do bicycles slow down cars on low speed, low traffic roads? Latest research says 'no'

A study by Portland State University researchers reveals that the presence of cyclists does not significantly slow down cars on low speed, low volume urban roads without bicycle lanes. The 1 mph differential in speed caused by cyclists was found to be negligible from a practical perspective.

SourcePortland State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJul 23, 2020

Selling something? Tap into consumer arrogance

A new study from Michigan State University found that consumer arrogance drives both positive and negative word-of-mouth communication, with consumers bragging about their purchases to show off their superiority. The research suggests that tapping into this phenomenon can be a key strategy for marketers on social media.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·DateJun 25, 2020

Virtual demolition

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a system that can virtually remove buildings, trees, or moving objects from real-time landscape simulations using deep learning and video game graphics engines. This technology may become standard for urban planning in busy areas with many distractions present, allowing for the visualizati...

SourceOsaka University·JournalEnvironmental Modelling & Software·DateJun 17, 2020