News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
Researchers at Kyushu University analyzed the carbon footprint of building a wooden house in Japan, estimating 38 tons of CO2 emissions. The team identified electric power sector and steel manufacturing process as major contributors to total emissions.
A team of researchers discovered a line of chickens bred for water conservation that can thrive under heat stress while consuming significantly less water than standard broiler lines. The high water-efficient chickens showed a 32-point improvement in water conversion and six-point improvement in feed conversion.
Scientists studied the nickel-tungsten alloy interface to understand its properties and behavior. The research revealed the formation of intermetallic compounds and diffusion-induced recrystallization regions, which significantly impact the material's mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties.
Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute have precisely characterized the styrene oxide isomerase enzyme, enabling the production of valuable chemicals and drug precursors in an environmentally friendly manner. The enzyme's unique mechanism and high specificity make it a promising tool for green chemistry.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique that automates quality control during the finishing process of 3D printed metal machine parts. This approach allows users to identify potential flaws without removing parts from equipment, making production time more efficient.
A new, affordable sensor technology can detect lead concentrations as low as one part per billion, making it a significant step forward in addressing global health issues. The handheld device can be used for on-site monitoring and requires only a droplet of water.
A new study from the University of Surrey suggests that blockchain technology could eliminate traditional package holiday providers, slashing costs and giving property owners direct income. Customers would also benefit from greater control over their personal data thanks to enhanced security and privacy.
The team developed a deep learning AI technique to quantitatively analyze cation mixing using atomic structure images. This approach revealed that introducing metal dopants like aluminum, titanium, and zirconium into the transition metal layer fortified bonds between nickel and oxygen atoms, curbing cation mixing.
The book examines the influence of automobiles on ideas about the future, technology, entrepreneurship, risk, safety, showmanship, politics, sex, gender, business, and the state. Prof. Dimitry Anastakis's work addresses the intersection of business, the state, and politics in post-1945 Canada.
Researchers discovered that adding water-resistant materials to an electrode can dramatically speed up chemical reactions in water, known as 'fouling'. This process can increase reaction rates up to six times faster than traditional methods. By leveraging this method, the chemical industry may be able to reduce its reliance on fossil f...
LyoWave is commercializing microwave heating technologies developed at Purdue University, improving speed, cost-effectiveness, and product throughput. The company has entered a collaboration with Millrock Technology, applying its technology to boost freeze-drying systems' capacity for pharmaceuticals and diagnostic reagents.
The Academic Payvider model enhances value-based care by fostering improved coordination, reduced insurance hassles, and increased staff attention. This joint approach between payers and providers aims to drive complex care down through innovative reimbursement structures.
Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology develop a new nanotechnology method that enables the creation of uniform, wafer-scale nanoparticle assemblies in just seconds. The 'mussel-inspired' technique accelerates assembly by introducing excess protons to increase electrostatic attraction.
The American Society for Nutrition's NUTRITION 2024 will bring together thousands of experts to share emerging scientific and policy developments in food, nutrition, and public health. Over 1,600 original research studies will be presented during the meeting.
Researchers found better-than-expected life expectancy in two disadvantaged English areas, which is likely due to population changes. Local residents and professionals attribute the gains to factors such as increased housing affordability and town centre improvements, despite rising costs for existing populations.
Researchers developed a device controlling tiny magnetic states in ultrathin magnets using tunneling currents, enabling probabilistic computing. This breakthrough could lead to advanced memory devices and entirely new types of computers solving complex problems efficiently.
Researchers found that cranberry extracts can stimulate beneficial bacteria in the gut, reducing inflammation and improving the prognosis of chronic diseases. The study suggests that cranberries may be a useful addition to a balanced diet in preventing or managing conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a self-folding origami gripper that can be mounted onto drones, enabling them to grasp and hold objects. The gripper weighs only 5 grams but demonstrates grasping force equivalent to holding a 130-gram object.
Researchers found widespread data gaps on environmental effects, emphasizing the need for updated information requirements in REACH legislation. They propose utilizing cross-species knowledge and grouping substances to increase understanding.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new 3D microscope technology using an electronically tunable lens, which automates the focusing process and reduces costs. This innovation enables fast and high-quality 3D imaging, overcoming limitations of traditional microscopes.
Scientists have developed a method to accelerate spectroscopic analysis, enabling real-time measurements. The technique utilizes compressed sensing and strategically randomized measurement points to reconstruct signals with fewer data points, overcoming the challenge of temporal overlap between pulses.
Researchers have developed a method to make ceramic materials more plastically deformable at room temperature by introducing high-density defects through preloading at high temperatures. This approach has been validated in various ceramic systems and shows promise for improving the industrial applications of ceramics.
Researchers from NTU Singapore have created a smart, reusable adhesive more than ten times stronger than a gecko's feet adhesion. The adhesive uses shape-memory polymers that can stick and detach easily when needed, making it ideal for robotic grippers and climbing robots.
A new method recovers phosphorus from sewage sludge ash through chemical and heat treatment, providing a valuable resource for industries. The process can be implemented with lower energy requirements and costs than conventional technologies, making it an attractive solution for addressing the depletion of phosphorus ores.
Researchers led by POSTECH Professor Yong-Young Noh discovered that tellurium oxide can function as a p-type semiconductor in oxygen-deficient environments. They successfully engineered high-performance amorphous p-type oxide Thin-Film Transistors (TFTs) with exceptional hole mobility and on/off current ratio.
Disposable vape sales quadrupled in the UK between 2022 and 2023, contributing to e-waste accumulation. The technology contains valuable resources like lithium, but recycling is often difficult due to lack of clear instructions. Experts call for urgent reform of disposable electronics practices to protect the environment.
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic develop a new, sustainable feed alternative for farmed Asian seabass, reducing reliance on wild-caught fishmeal. The single cell protein is cultivated from soybean processing wastewater, offering a promising solution to the aquaculture industry's environmental challenges.
Researchers at TU Wien have created a nanofabric filter using waste cellulose that can efficiently remove hazardous dyes from water. The filter, called 'nanoweb', uses a high surface area to bind organic dye molecules, resulting in a 95% removal rate.
Research at Tampere University aims to develop adaptable safety systems for autonomous off-road mobile machinery. The framework focuses on ensuring public safety without compromising technological advancements, incorporating a human-in-the-loop safety option.
A new study outlines the effects of temperature, humidity, and moisture content on molded fiber products' mechanical properties. The research provides mathematical models to describe these changes, helping improve MFP design and application.
The Alzheimer's disease treatment landscape is experiencing a significant shift, with numerous potential drugs making their way through clinical trials. Biomarkers have also emerged as a key area of focus, providing valuable information on the drug's impact and allowing for more precise guidance in future trials.
SMART researchers develop a nanosensor that selectively detects salicylic acid in live plants, vital for stress response. The sensor combines sensors for H₂O₂ and salicylic acid, enabling simultaneous monitoring of plant hormones and aiding in early diagnoses to improve crop resilience.
Researchers have discovered that bismuth alloys can provide a better seal than traditional cement plugs, reducing the risk of leaks and greenhouse gas emissions. The innovative solution has the potential to save Norway billions of dollars in plugging costs, with reduced installation time and no need for rigs.
The alliance aims to advance silicon carbide research, development, and workforce training in the US. It will focus on developing efficient and sustainable energy infrastructure, including electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.
Researchers found that continuous, real-time eco-feedback technology reduced shower water runtime by 77 seconds (25.79%) and raised over £1 million in investment for smart water saving solutions.
The partnership aims to advance carbon research and evaluate the impact of Morgan's carbon material products on SiC wafer fabrication. The initiative will create a new five-year, multimillion-dollar program to explore next-generation SiC crystal research and workforce development.
Scientists at Salk Institute explore the clinical potential of cannabinol (CBN) in treating traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. They identify four CBN analogs with improved neuroprotective ability and drug-like efficacy.
A new study developed two machine learning models to quantify CD8+ cell positivity and classify the immunophenotype of cancer specimens in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The models hold promise for identifying patients who may benefit from immunotherapy.
A Japanese research team analyzed oxygen and nitrogen stable isotope ratios in nitrate to differentiate between sake breweries. The study found a distinct N isotope signature across various types of sake within a single brewery, which could be used as a marker for authentication.
A study published in BMJ Open suggests that efforts to keep hospital clinicians in post need to be tailored to age and profession, rather than applying a 'one-size fits all' approach. The findings indicate that better reward systems are needed to boost staff retention and ensure the sustainability of the NHS.
A new international research project, RoboSapiens, aims to make industrial robots more adaptable and reliable by utilizing artificial intelligence. The project, led by Aarhus University, will focus on four use-cases: autonomous ships, human-robot interactions, warehouse robots, and laptop refurbishment.
A team of researchers has successfully integrated a metasurface with photonic integrated circuits, enabling fast and tunable control over light manipulation. The device can shape any wavefront in reconfigurable arbitrary polarization states at speeds of up to 1.4 gigahertz.
A new study reveals that Global North countries' outsourcing of energy-intensive industrial processes to the Global South leads to greater carbon emissions and environmental damage. The researchers urge both regions to work together to address this issue, promoting energy equity and sustainability.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered a simple method to increase Euglena gracilis carotenoid content ratio by exposing it to strong red-light irradiation in bonito stock. The approach has potential to enhance the nutritional profile and scalability of this edible microalga.
Millions of gamers worldwide contribute to reconstructing microbial evolutionary histories using a minigame in Borderlands 3, significantly refining estimates of human gut microbes. This collaboration lays groundwork for improved AI programs and advances knowledge of the microbiome.
Dr Emmanuel Defay has received an ERC grant to develop highly efficient technology converting waste heat into 100 watts of electrical power. The project aims for a 50% energy efficiency rate, applicable to various industries with high-quality or lower temperature waste heat.
New study uses high-powered microscopy and mathematical theory to unveil nanoscale voids in three dimensions. The findings show a strong correlation between unique physical properties of random empty space and improved filtration performance.
Researchers from the University of Barcelona have designed a new system for fast and efficient 3D imaging of objects, exceeding current technological systems in terms of speed and spatial resolution. The innovation uses intelligent interrogation to reduce image acquisition time, enabling real-time characterization of dynamic processes.
Norwegian seafarers express strong doubts about the safety of autonomous ships, citing concerns about loss of job independence and reduced crew control. Researchers studied bridge officers' attitudes towards automation and found a link between professional pride and mistrust.
A new research project, PHOTOZYME, aims to develop photobiocatalytic tools to convert basic chemicals into chiral molecules. The project combines biocatalysis, photochemistry, and directed evolution to create sustainable molecular synthesis.
Two new Review articles explore AI's application in early cancer detection, highlighting its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve treatment selection. The articles emphasize the need for a robust, multi-disciplinary approach to integrate AI into medicine.
A new study from China found that higher GDP per capita and lower income inequality are associated with increased subjective well-being. However, when income inequality becomes too high, the link between economy and mental health disappears. The researchers advocate for a balanced approach to economic planning.
Researchers from NTU Singapore have created a method to extract over 80% of the available protein in grain leftovers from brewing beer, commonly known as brewers' spent grain. The extracted proteins could be used commercially to enrich human diets and cosmetic products, providing an eco-friendly alternative to conventional ingredients.
A recent study by academics from British and Finnish business schools has warned that organisations can be destroyed from within and without by 'institutional parasites' such as suppliers or employees. These parasites can initially benefit both the organisation and the parasite, but can ultimately cause significant harm if left unchecked.
Kobe University researchers develop a bacterial plastic factory that produces highly transparent, biodegradable plastics with improved properties. By blending polylactic acid with ultra-high molecular weight LAHB, they create a material that exhibits all the desired properties.
Researchers at The University of Manchester have developed a new ruthenium catalyst, proven to be long-term stable in air while maintaining high reactivity. This breakthrough enables the user to run simultaneous reactions, streamlining optimisation procedures and reducing waste accumulation.
A new statistical-modeling workflow can quickly identify molecular structures of products formed by chemical reactions, accelerating drug discovery and synthetic chemistry. The workflow also enables the analysis of unpurified reaction mixtures, reducing time spent on purification and characterization.
A researcher at West Virginia University is using 'reverse engineering' to study the structural characteristics of slot machines and their impact on players. The study aims to understand what makes these games immersive and how they interact with individual vulnerabilities, ultimately informing the development of safer gambling products.
Researchers developed novel optimal and robust-optimal controllers for the FDS model, achieving six-fold reduction in settling time and improved stability. The robust-optimal controller performed better than the optimal controller in simulations with noise, demonstrating its adaptability.
Researchers introduced a novel method for generating computer-generated holograms (CGHs) that significantly reduces computational overhead while maintaining high-quality 3D visualization. The approach leverages a split Lohmann lens-based diffraction model, enabling rapid synthesis of 3D holograms through a single-step backward propagat...