Articles tagged with Environmental Engineering
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new $1.8 million grant will aid in developing personalized treatments for Crohn's disease through the use of a gut-on-a-chip system, which mimics human gut structure and function. The goal is to uncover triggers and develop more effective therapies, ultimately improving health outcomes.
Researchers developed a way to fill in gaps in connected car data, enabling transportation planners to create more effective traffic congestion mitigation strategies. The study used two-months of connected vehicle data from 2,800 cars to reconstruct missing location-duration-path choices, improving travel demand dynamics and reducing e...
Scientists at Estonian Research Council developed a new method for improving air purifier efficiency by analyzing oxygen adsorption. The research, published in Surfaces and Interfaces, found that oxygen plays a significant role in photocatalytic processes alongside UV radiation.
Researchers in Bangladesh found a way to reduce inorganic arsenic in rice by modifying parboiling methods, resulting in a 25% reduction and a 213% increase in calcium content. This new method also reduces potassium levels by 40%.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have created a new type of origami that can change its shape instantly, altering its structural characteristics. This hybrid origami allows for reprogrammable mechanical properties and customization possibilities, enabling new types of origami-based structures or metamaterials.
A new study found that reducing meat consumption could cut greenhouse gas emissions by the most, while also increasing use of animal byproducts. By combining various strategies such as eliminating waste and finding uses for byproducts, researchers estimate a 43% reduction in emissions from the meat supply chain.
Researchers will assess and monitor changes in microbial ecology, water chemistry and nutrient availability in Pittsburgh's water system after adding orthophosphate. The study aims to understand the impact of orthophosphate on aquatic ecosystems and provide insights for other cities implementing this treatment.
Researchers developed a new dose-response function to predict the probability of illness from low-dose exposures. This approach combines 'bottom-up' biologically-based modeling with 'top-down' statistical analyses, increasing efficiency in risk assessment.
Recent research reveals that pollutants can alter animals' immune responses and decrease their resistance to infectious diseases. Chemical exposure in the womb has also been linked to increased risk of illnesses in children.
Researchers found that PM2.5 pollution is disproportionately caused by the consumption of goods and services by the non-Hispanic white majority, but disproportionately inhaled by black and Hispanic minorities. This disparity is driven by differences in consumption patterns and exposure to pollution.
A new study by Iowa State University researchers suggests that requiring landlords to disclose recent bedbug infestations can lead to a reduction in infestations and lower costs for both landlords and tenants. This policy can create long-term savings for landlords and make life better for people affected by these pests.
Researchers tracked a new RNA pesticide in soils and found it degrades through enzymes and microbes, but also attaches to soil particles, slowing breakdown. The extent of this protection varies by soil type.
Researchers explore how arts and sciences collaboration can lead to increased discovery and innovation. A study found that patent production is correlated with metal- and wood-working practices among STEM professionals.
Researchers propose a novel technique called ExLL, which can reduce network latency and improve efficiency for 5G-based services. The new protocol is compared to Google's Biblio (BBR) and shows superior performance in reducing congestion issues.
Researchers have developed EmbryoPhenomics, a technology that captures detailed measurements of organism development, revealing sensitive responses to environmental stressors. The technology has the potential to be a game-changer in assessing climate change impacts and preserving biodiversity.
Researchers at NIST developed a measurement-based method for evaluating optimal antenna designs, reducing signal interference and delays. The method allows designers to select the best beamwidths for real environments, increasing network capacity and reliability.
Researchers found that burned forest material can sequester mercury, preventing its release into waterways. Black ash from low-intensity burns contained similar amounts of mercury as unburned vegetation and white ash from high-intensity burns had higher levels in a non-reactive form.
A new study by Indiana University scientists found toxic flame retardants in newly manufactured children's car seats, posing risks to children's health. The researchers detected high levels of emerging flame retardant chemicals, including cyclic phosphonate esters and polybrominated diphenyl ethers.
Craig H. Benson, UVA Engineering dean, has been elected AAAS Fellow for his pioneering work in geoenvironmental engineering and leadership in faculty development, advancing public understanding of science and fostering collaborations worldwide.
Researchers at UPV/EHU have created a starch and graphene hydrogel with electrical and antibacterial properties suitable for neural interfaces. The hydrogel was produced using click chemistry and is stable in an aqueous medium due to the addition of salvia extracts.
A new study suggests that romantic crushes can evoke a desire for increasing variety in purchases, as people seek to reassert control. The findings have implications for marketers, who could target those with a crush with promotional campaigns involving high variety options.
The 'smart skin' technology uses fluorescing carbon nanotubes to reveal stress in aircraft, bridges, or pipelines over entire surfaces or microscopic levels. It enables two-dimensional mapping of accumulated strain that can't be achieved by other non-contact methods.
Researchers have developed flexible, semi-transparent films that block electromagnetic interference while allowing light to pass through. The films, made from a combination of carbon nanotubes and MXene, demonstrate high strength, flexibility, and conductivity, making them suitable for use in devices with display screens.
Researchers from Georgia State University discovered arid conditions in East Africa around half a million years ago, which may have influenced human evolution and the development of stone technology. The findings provide insights into how environmental changes impacted early human ancestors.
A research team, led by Anil Misra from the University of Kansas, is developing a center to advance basic science for next-generation transport technology. The team aims to create intelligent infrastructure for safe, efficient mobility, reducing accidents and pollution.
NCALM has made significant contributions to the field of Earth science, using lidar technology to map terrain and create detailed topographical maps. The center's work has also had practical significance, including assessing earthquake and landslide risks.
A team of scientists from Newcastle University has discovered three new species of snailfish in the Atacama Trench, a record-breaking 8000-metre-deep location. The fish, which are part of the Liparidae family, are highly adapted to living in extreme pressure and cold conditions.
The TCS SP8 FALCON system enables fast fluorescence lifetime imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, allowing scientists to investigate protein environments with high accuracy. This technology facilitates advanced techniques in protein biology, including dynamic maps of protein interactions in living cells.
Jizhong Zhou receives the 2019 American Society for Microbiology Award for Environmental Research for groundbreaking discoveries in microbial ecology and environmental genomics. His work has transformed our understanding of microbial biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
A new wireless location system has been developed to drive future wireless innovation, providing control over disparate radio and network technologies. The system's integration with WiSHFUL architecture allows for experimental investigation of network applications using real-time location data.
A new technology to detect corrosion and erosion in pipelines can prevent catastrophic explosions at power plants. Dr. Piero Rizzo's project aims to develop a device that monitors pipeline conditions continuously and remotely.
A new study found that air pollution shortens human lives by over a year globally, with better air quality potentially extending lifespans. The researchers analyzed data from 185 countries and quantified the national impact of PM2.5 air pollution on life expectancy.
A new review questions the usefulness of wearable devices in providing medical insights, citing limited formal validation and potential risks of misinterpretation. The study highlights concerns about concussion detection technologies and the need for rigorous evaluation and regulation of the growing industry.
A new imaging technology is being developed to enable more targeted Earth observation, allowing for the monitoring of climate change and ocean activity. The technology, which could be mounted on many nanosatellites, would enable continuous global coverage and more efficient data collection.
Researchers have found that traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM) contains high levels of mercury and methylmercury, with Tibetans exposed to 34-fold higher daily intake than in regions specializing in mercury mining. This exposure results in the release of significant amounts of total mercury into municipal sewage and the environment.
Professor Sarah Kang receives the 2018 Kamide Award for her pioneering contributions to atmospheric sciences, identifying mechanisms of high-latitude climate change on tropical precipitation. Her work blazed a trail in climate dynamics, revealing correlations between high and low latitude zones.
Researchers at UTA will work with Boeing to create new learning environments where humans collaborate with bots, robots, and AI. The goal is to reskill employees and prepare them for an increasingly automated workforce.
A team led by CSU researcher Jason Quinn will evaluate the feasibility and benefits of wireless electric vehicle charging. The project aims to reduce emissions and cost associated with traditional charging methods.
Scientists detected airborne polychlorinated biphenyl compounds in kitchens, linked to sealant decomposition. Higher levels were found in newer homes and emanated from finished cabinetry.
A comprehensive study of China's STEM research environment has found that the country's educational system stifles creativity and critical thinking, and rewards quantity over quality. The study, published in PLOS ONE, gathered data from 731 surveys completed by STEM faculty at top Chinese universities.
Three studies highlight significant shifts in climate, tool-making, and trade in East Africa around 300,000 years ago. The region underwent transformations from floodplains to grasslands, driving human mobility, information gathering, and potentially trade.
Jizhong Zhou, a renowned researcher at OU, has made significant contributions to understanding the role of microbes in environment, climate change. He is recognized by the ESA Fellowship, reflecting the quality of OU's faculty, students, and staff.
Researchers at Concordia University developed a method to optimize energy consumption in buildings, reducing carbon emissions by 59% while cutting costs by 75%. The study used hydro-powered heat pumps and lake cooling as renewable energy sources, demonstrating the potential for net-zero energy usage.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute will collaborate with private sector companies and local transportation agencies to develop changes in freight demand patterns and reduce energy use. The project aims to test new ideas, collect data, and inform research on energy-efficient transportation technologies and systems.
The 'microscale magnetic tumbling robot' can traverse uneven surfaces and climb steep inclines in both dry and wet environments. Researchers developed the bot using standard photolithography techniques and explored its performance in fluid media to address unique challenges at the micro-scale.
A recent study by UCI researchers found that the severity of hottest days has increased faster than global average temperature rise, with cities amplifying heat island effects. The accelerated growth in short-term extreme-heat events has severe human tolls, including lost lives and damage to infrastructure.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new transient electronics architecture that can remotely vaporize itself, offering benefits for data protection and environmental monitoring. The technology uses radio waves to trigger a thermal reaction, releasing chemicals that decompose the electronics.
Engineers at Iowa State University have developed a new type of wearable sensor for plants, using graphene technology to measure water use in crops. The sensors are made by patterning and transferring graphene-based nanomaterials onto tape, allowing for precise measurements of transpiration from leaves.
Researchers have created an environmentally friendly red light flare using a lithium-based pyrotechnic composition, avoiding hazardous elements like strontium and chlorinated organic materials. The new formulation shows high color quality and purity, and the team plans to further optimize its luminosity.
A study by Ca' Foscari University and CNR found that autumn leaves in Italian woods can contaminate soil with high levels of hydrocarbons, up to four times the legal limit. The researchers identified natural sources of these hydrocarbons, including plant origin, but emphasized that even low concentrations may pose a toxicity risk.
Researchers developed a molecular printing technique, 3DEAL, to create complex hydrogel environments with controlled chemical composition. This allows for the design of new drug screening platforms and tissue-engineered constructs with spatially controlled gradients or patterns.
Researchers decode interactions between materials and structures in nature-inspired composites like nacre and tooth enamel. The model reveals key factors influencing composite properties and provides insights into designing lightweight, multifunctional structural composites.
Researchers found elevated levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and transition metals, including hexavalent chromium, on the Red Line. This led to a ten-fold increase in cancer risk compared to government safety thresholds.
An Army scientist has discovered a new pattern in thunderstorms that can help predict how weather and environment affect unmanned aerial systems on the battlefield. Strong downdrafts and super-cooled raindrops pose significant threats to UAS, but current models struggle to accurately predict these factors.
The University of Texas at San Antonio researchers aim to identify specific DNA markers that indicate fecal contamination, evaluate its level, and locate its origin. The project will also educate the public on ways to keep local water resources safe from contamination.
The invasive South American palm weevil is killing California's iconic palm trees and threatening the state's $89 million-per-year date industry. Researchers are developing semiochemical formulations to monitor and control populations in an effective, economical, and environmentally-friendly manner.
A University of Delaware research team is studying how people adapt to power outages and water shortages after disasters. The project aims to optimize risk management strategies and improve societal needs through a multifaceted approach combining engineering modeling techniques, social science methods, and real-world case studies.
Researchers found triclosan accumulates in nylon bristles and is easily released when switching toothpaste types, exposing users to unregulated doses. Other chemicals like BHT and methyl salicylate also accumulate in toothbrushes.
Researchers found that triclosan accumulates in toothbrush bristles and elastomer parts, releasing it when switching toothpastes. This could lead to prolonged exposure to triclosan and its potential transformation products.
University of Houston researchers are part of a $5.3 million NSF-funded effort to better understand disasters like Hurricane Harvey. Steven Pennings will examine mangrove protection, while Hanadi Rifai will characterize chemical and microbiological contamination in Houston waterways.