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.
Professor Ian Craddock discusses how IoT technologies can transform health care and reduce costs by managing chronic conditions outside the hospital environment. He will explore challenges, security concerns, and application scenarios for healthcare using his SPHERE project as an example.
The University of Southampton will host a new £36m National Infrastructure Laboratory in partnership with industry and government. The lab aims to develop new understandings of large structures and infrastructure engineering through research and teaching facilities.
The Power Over Wi-Fi system can wirelessly power low-power devices, such as cameras and wearable trackers. The technology attracts attention for its potential to enable Internet of Things development.
A promising new iron-based alloy has been discovered that can be used in next-generation cooling technologies, offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cooling methods. The alloy's use of magnetic fields to change refrigerant temperature holds potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
US fracking operations consume nearly 250 billion gallons of water between 2005 and 2014, which is lower than other energy-related extraction methods. However, in drought-stricken areas, local water shortages could limit future use of hydraulic fracturing.
A team of researchers from Pitt, Drexel, and NIH found that the Ebola virus can survive in detectable concentrations in wastewater for at least a week or longer. The study suggests that procedures for disposing of contaminated liquid waste might underestimate the virus' ability to persist.
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center collaborates with YYESIT LLC to develop a product offering innovative monitoring, interpreting, and reporting capabilities for healthcare safety and quality protocols. The partnership aims to advance NASA's work in image processing, computer vision, intelligent decision-making, and optimization.
A representative survey of Mogadishu's population used remote sensing and smartphone technology to gather data on household dynamics, access to electricity, and child education. The findings revealed significant challenges in collecting accurate data due to security concerns and fragmented authority structures.
Researchers found that using stainless steel containers and silverware for hot meals can decrease melamine levels in people's bodies by 41-92%. This practice could lower exposure to the industrial chemical, which has been linked to urinary stones and kidney problems.
Engineers at MIT have developed a model that predicts the force needed for robotic grippers to adjust their grasp on an object by interacting with the environment. This approach, called extrinsic dexterity, enables robots to perform more complex maneuvers without needing expensive and complex hand designs.
Researchers have developed a new model of survival that can predict the potential harm caused by thousands of chemicals used daily. By considering death as a continuum between random events and individual tolerance, scientists can analyze every chemical using high-throughput screening, paving the way for further testing.
The US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has found that butanol can be used as a safe and effective alternative fuel for recreational boats. This new blend, which includes 16% butanol, was demonstrated to outperform ethanol at 10% in terms of performance, efficiency, and emissions.
Researchers found that a common air filter, photocatalytic oxidation (PCO), releases more dangerous chemicals than it removes, raising concerns about indoor air quality. The study's authors aim to develop new testing methods and energy-efficient technologies to improve building ventilation.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Water found that decentralized water regulation presents a theoretical benefit, allowing different populations to tailor spending to their particular circumstances. The research suggests that local decision-making can promote good governance and improve outcomes for Canadians.
A study of travertine deposits in the Anio Novus aqueduct revealed an actual estimate of its flow rate, significantly lower than previous estimates. The aqueduct's average water level indicates it was almost always full of water, supplying Rome with a reliable water supply that enabled urbanization during the first century AD.
Researchers assess building collapse risk due to ground-shaking aftershock tremors after main earthquakes, considering factors like site-to-source distance and aftershock magnitude. The study introduces a logical method for predicting collapse probability based on these variables, allowing for quantification of risk.
Latrine odor can deter users, leading to open defecation. Perfume researchers identified key compounds causing the stench in Indian, Kenyan, and South African facilities. Understanding these sensory profiles is crucial to countering odors and making latrines more welcoming.
OU Professor Jizhong Zhou has been recognized for his outstanding contributions in environmental genomics and microbial ecology. He is being honored for developing innovative metagenomics technologies and groundbreaking discoveries about microbial systems in response to environmental change.
Indiana University is conducting a groundbreaking study to explore how environmental signals affect women's persistence and performance in STEM fields. The research, supported by the National Science Foundation, uses real-world data and behavioral experiments to validate its findings.
The National Science Foundation has announced 2015 Graduate Research Fellowship recipients, representing a diverse group of scientific disciplines and backgrounds. The awardees receive three years of financial support for graduate study leading to a research-based master's or doctoral degree.
A new study by MIT researchers finds that smarter programming of stoplights can reduce delays, improve efficiency, and lower emissions in urban areas. By combining vehicle-level data with city-level traffic patterns, the algorithm produces more accurate predictions and recommendations for optimizing traffic flow.
Research suggests that focusing monitoring on companies using the most environmentally damaging technologies can encourage investment in cleaner technology, leading to increased emissions reductions. This approach maximizes net benefits to society while reducing monitoring costs.
A comprehensive analysis of 66,101 health-care facilities in 54 low- and middle-income countries found that 38% lack an improved water source, 19% lack improved sanitation, and 35% lack soap for hand washing. This compromise basic health-care services like child delivery, posing infection risks to patients and staff.
A partnership between a cognitive scientist and an environmental scientist has enhanced high school students' learning of basic spatial reasoning, as well as solving complex problems involving climate change and other STEM subjects. The program uses computer-based layered maps to facilitate visualization and reasoning.
The Air Force Office of Scientific Research has awarded approximately $16.6 million in grants to 57 young investigators from research institutions across the US. The recipients will conduct basic research in areas such as dynamical systems, quantum processes, and energy, with a focus on advancing the Air Force mission.
The EPA's proposed rule aims to disclose all pesticides' inert ingredients, but consumer advocates argue it doesn't go far enough to protect human health and the environment. The fight over regulations dates back nearly a decade, with advocacy groups claiming that many inert ingredients are hazardous to people's health.
Researchers found three chemicals in swimming pool water: DEET, caffeine, and TCEP. The detection of these chemicals highlights the potential for uncontrolled releases into swimming pools, which can pose risks to swimmers through inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption.
The VuePod allows users to explore 3D environments created from point data, including images captured by LIDAR and drones. This enables engineers to detect changes in natural landscapes and monitor infrastructure more effectively.
A global fleet of composite planes could reduce CO2 emissions by 14-15% if introduced widely, thanks to fuel savings. However, the aviation industry's overall emissions reduction will be lower due to a mix of new and old aircraft in service.
The NSF is investing $16M to build two new supercomputing systems, Bridges and Jetstream, which will expand computational capacity and capability for researchers nationwide. The systems will provide cloud-based and data-intensive advanced computing resources, enabling a broader swath of researchers to use advancing computing.
A new study published by the American Chemical Society finds that switching to cleaner heating oils could prevent up to 290 premature deaths and 550 emergency room visits in New York City annually. The study estimates that emissions reductions would benefit high-poverty neighborhoods the most.
Antonio Luque will receive the Karl W. Börner Solar Energy Medal of Merit at a ceremony on March 13, 2015. Luque is being recognized for his work in developing high-efficiency solar cells and stimulating the adoption of renewable energy in Spain.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict which chemicals people are exposed to the most, ranking nearly 8,000 substances. The study aims to help prioritize future efforts to understand potential health risks of thousands of chemicals.
A new study examines the trajectory of emerging chemical threats to human and environmental health over 30 years. The research reveals a common pattern of emergence, rising to peak concern within 14 years before declining, and identifies potential stages of concern related to these chemicals.
Researchers at Plymouth University have identified a method to reduce styrene emissions in the manufacturing process by up to 98%, improving workplace conditions and environmental impact. The new technique uses in-mould gel-coating, which significantly reduces volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a novel method for studying plant growth using LEGO bricks, creating controlled micro-environments that can be easily replicated worldwide. The innovative approach allows for the simultaneous testing of various environmental factors, such as nutrients, water, and oxygen gradients.
A new method of wormlike motion allows gels to swim in water, expanding their potential applications as environmental and biotechnological tools. This breakthrough was achieved by a UC undergraduate student with the help of his advisers, enabling soft materials to explore new areas such as surface waters or cavities inside the human body.
Researchers are studying ways to selectively use high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete in buildings, exploring its potential to improve strength without increasing costs. The approach focuses on using advanced materials only at vulnerable joints, such as beam-column connections, to enhance structural resilience.
A team of researchers has won a $779,000 grant to develop a new way to rehabilitate deteriorating reinforced concrete structures using shape memory alloys. The approach aims to confine the structure all the time, preventing damage and improving strength.
A Concordia University study found that snowplows are the main culprit in erasing roadway markings, which can lead to traffic accidents. To address this issue, researchers suggest using more expensive and durable epoxy paint, which could save lives in the long run.
Traffic engineers at Wayne State University suggest metered roundabouts, or 'super circles,' as a solution to alleviate rush-hour congestion and enhance safety in the US. The proposed system utilizes stop lights to control peak hour traffic flow, reducing capacity issues and promoting safer intersections.
A new high-efficiency cabin air filter (HECA) can reduce ultrafine particle (UFP) exposure by 93% and keep carbon dioxide levels low. Most modern car filters only block 40-60% of UFPs, but the HECA filter's smaller synthetic fibers can capture more particles.
A new study found that suburban households in the US account for approximately 50% of the country's total household carbon footprint. The researchers used an analytic model and national survey data to estimate average household carbon footprints for over 30,000 zip codes and 10,000 cities and towns across all 50 states.
Researchers from Duke University and Boston University found over 5,900 natural gas leaks under Washington, D.C., with concentrations as high as 500,000 parts per million. The leaks pose explosion risks and release high levels of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.
Researchers have created a way to clean dirty banknotes, removing accumulated sebum and motor oil without damaging security features. This process could save nearly $10 billion annually and minimize the environmental impact of currency disposal.
University of Minnesota researchers have developed a new approach for identifying potential environmental effects of releasing genetically engineered (GE) insects. The framework evaluates the entire range of potential effects, including those during transitory and steady state phases, providing improved guidance for ecological risk ass...
Researchers at the University of California, Riverside have redesigned battery component materials to create nanoparticles with controlled shape, resulting in smaller, more powerful and energy efficient batteries. This innovation could improve battery performance and reduce costs for electric cars and other applications.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that wealth inequality can promote cooperation when people are distributed a given total amount of wealth somewhat unequally, rather than fully equally. This is because rich benefactors promote cooperation that benefits themselves and their surroundings, leading to the spread of coop...
University of Cincinnati researchers have made early discoveries on converting waste coffee grounds into energy sources, including biodiesel and activated carbon. The process involves extracting oil, drying the grounds, and burning what's left as an alternative energy source, with promising results in reducing emissions.
This special issue of Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment brings together diverse perspectives on addressing global environmental challenges. The issue highlights socio-ecological drivers of environmental injustice, explores ways to encourage behavioral change, and emphasizes the role of religion in promoting Earth Stewardship.
A University of Houston professor is studying the impact of Saharan dust on Houston's air quality, finding that the dust can vary in toxicity and affect people with asthma. The team used scientific detective work to determine the 'fingerprint' of African dust, allowing them to differentiate it from other pollutants.
A new study has found that online tools, such as NEEShub and the project warehouse, are helping to accelerate progress in earthquake engineering and science. These platforms provide a centralized repository for experimental results, making them accessible to researchers, practitioners, and educational communities.
Scientists have developed a new technology that can convert CO2 into electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and producing over 1,570 billion kilowatts of additional power annually. The method uses CO2 from power plant smokestacks and other sources, eliminating the need for additional fuel to produce electricity.
Soft Robotics is a new peer-reviewed journal combining advances in biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and materials science to create robotic technology for interactive robots. The journal provides a forum for scientists and engineers across diverse fields to work together to build the next generation of soft robots.
A study of over 3,000 households found that only 21 percent accounted for 50 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Large living spaces and long commutes were key factors contributing to a disproportionately large environmental footprint.
Researchers at NC State University are using video game technology to remotely control cockroaches on autopilot. They use Microsoft's Kinect system to track the insects' progress and steer them along a digitally plotted path. This technology has potential for mapping dynamic environments, such as collapsed buildings, with rescue teams.
Sandia National Laboratories has developed the Capability Portfolio Analysis Tool (CPAT) to help the US Army analyze complex decisions for modernizing combat vehicles. The tool combines optimization, simulation, and modeling to balance goals and budget constraints, providing a more efficient decision-making process.
A new study by GW Professor Tianshu Li provides direct computational evidence that nucleation of ice in small droplets is strongly size-dependent. The team's findings demonstrate that water at the nanoscale can no longer be considered bulk water, with implications for climate research and atmospheric science.
The DOE JGI has established new partnerships to develop emerging technologies in genomics and single-cell analysis, including scalable DNA synthesis and high-throughput sequencing. These collaborations aim to enhance the Institute's capabilities and support DOE missions related to clean energy and environmental characterization.
A pioneering collaboration aims to develop a 24/7 digital home health assistant to address pressing healthcare issues. The SPHERE project will use non-invasive sensors to monitor patients' health and wellbeing, targeting obesity, depression, stroke, falls, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal diseases.