News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
This special issue highlights photonics developments in Latin America, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, India, and China, showcasing regional growth and progress. The papers emphasize the importance of global cooperation and collaboration to address challenges and seize opportunities in the field.
Researchers have developed VECSELs with record output power and absolute frequency stability, overcoming the hurdle of spectral differences between glass fibers and quantum bits. These lasers enable low-loss transmission and precise frequency conversion for quantum internet applications.
The review article explores China's orchid industry, tracing its cultural connections to ancient times and highlighting modern advancements in cultivation. Key findings include the discovery of SNP markers contributing to orchid diversity research and the potential of molecular marker-assisted breeding.
A team of researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has successfully developed a high-power, narrow-linewidth solid-state deep ultraviolet laser at 193 nm using LBO crystals. The generated DUV laser exhibits an average power of 60 mW and a linewidth of approximately 640 MHz, setting new benchmarks in efficiency values.
Researchers discovered compounds with untapped therapeutic potential for treating BPH, melanogenesis, and nerve damage. Metformin restored sex hormone homeostasis, epimedin B stimulated pigmentation function, and hydralazine suppressed ferroptosis to aid in axon regeneration.
A team of researchers from Kyushu University has developed a novel iridium-based compound that can efficiently store electrons from hydrogen in a solid state. The stored electrons can be extracted and used to catalyze useful chemical reactions, such as cyclopropanation, with significant advantages over conventional techniques.
Researchers found that trying to stifle boredom prolongs its effects and that alternating boring and meaningful tasks helps prevent the negative impact on productivity. Boredom serves an important purpose, signaling the need for change, but ignoring it can lead to decreased productivity.
Researchers have developed two innovative methods for mass-producing metalenses, reducing production costs by up to 1,000 times. The team achieved successful creation of large-scale infrared metalenses with high resolution and exceptional light-collecting capabilities.
Scientists at Tohoku University create a tiny spot in glass using a tailored laser beam, enabling precise processing at scales below 100 nanometers. The breakthrough opens up new possibilities for laser nano-processing in various industries and scientific fields.
A brief intervention based in an emergency department, comprising advice and e-cigarette starter kit, can help smokers quit. After 6 months, the intervention group showed a 76% higher rate of continuous abstinence compared to those signposted to smoking cessation services.
Researchers have developed a simple and sustainable method for monitoring and degrading a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water. The new approach uses excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy and photochemical systems to achieve efficient degradation, outperforming traditional methods like chromatography.
Belgian scientists developed AI models to predict beer ratings and aroma compounds, improving beer quality. The study analyzed hundreds of beers and used machine learning to connect chemical concentrations with appreciation scores.
Researchers have developed a scalable, fully-coupled annealing processor that outperforms simulating a fully coupled Ising system on a PC by 2,306 times. The processor incorporates 4096 spins and uses parallelized capabilities for accelerated problem-solving.
Researchers are exploring engineered geothermal systems and innovative drilling technologies to unlock superhot rock energy. However, significant gaps in research and development need to be addressed to achieve temperatures over 375°C.
A study found significant decreases in average nitrogen dioxide concentrations and social inequities in California's air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Non-urban areas saw a 17% decrease, while urban areas experienced a 50% reduction, primarily due to reduced traffic.
Researchers have proposed an innovative quantum algorithm that effectively solves combinatorial optimization problems with constraints in a short time. The pVSQA algorithm uses a quantum device to generate a variational quantum state and transform infeasible solutions into feasible ones, achieving near-optimal performance.
A new study published in Stroke found that exposure to artificial, bright outdoor nighttime light may increase the risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke. The research, which analyzed data from over 28,000 adults living in China, suggests that higher levels of outdoor light pollution at night may be a risk factor for these conditions.
Researchers at MIT have developed a method to analyze the behavior of granular materials, revealing their internal forces and shapes in 3D detail. This breakthrough may lead to better understanding of landslides and industrial processes.
A WVU study found that treating work like a game improves workers' productivity and engagement, but also increases stress levels. Gamification can boost completion times for repetitive tasks, but may push employees past their tolerance threshold, leading to frustration and physical demands.
A study by NTU Singapore researchers found that cool paint coatings can reduce city heat by up to 2 degrees Celsius, improving pedestrian thermal comfort levels. The coatings reflected sunlight and absorbed less heat, resulting in cooler temperatures and reduced indoor air-conditioning energy consumption.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable chitosan-based composite film reinforced with lignin-rich nanofibers extracted from rice husks, reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices. The material showcases improved strength, durability, and unique properties like UV-blocking capabilities.
A team of scientists from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an artificial vitreous body based on alginate to treat retinal detachment. The hydrogel maintains vision post-surgery and regulates fluid dynamics within the eye, preventing recurrence and air bubble formation.
Researchers at University of Liège have developed an innovative process for producing isocyanate-free, recyclable and biobased polyurethane (PU) foams by using rapid foaming technology from room-temperature formulations. This innovation offers a cutting-edge alternative to traditional toxic isocyanates-based processes.
Researchers at WVU are developing solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, with the goal of cutting production costs to $1 per kilogram. The projects focus on improving SOEC design and manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Researchers at Tohoku University's AIMR have developed a novel approach to electrocatalytic ammonia synthesis, utilizing transition metal disulfides as catalysts. The breakthrough relies on the in-situ generation of S-vacancies on the catalyst surface, significantly enhancing nitrogen reduction activity.
A new study published in Nature Sustainability suggests that decommissioned offshore structures may only provide limited long-term ecological benefits. The research analyzed over 530 scientific studies on the effects of marine artificial structures and found no conclusive evidence to support their use as artificial reefs.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science found that rose essential oil increases the transcript levels of PIR1 and PIN2, key plant defense genes, in tomato plants. The study also showed that REO reduces leaf damage caused by pests and attracts beneficial predators to protect against herbivores.
Researchers have developed a vascularized organoid model (VOM) that accurately replicates the actual vasculature and environment of gastric cancer, enabling patient-specific predictions of response to anticancer drugs. The VOM demonstrates high cell viability rates and similarity to actual gastric cancer conditions.
A study found that days above 32°C during the mating week caused a 2.1 million fewer lambs produced in Australia each year. If global warming increases by 1°C or 3°C, annual losses could increase to 2.5 million and 3.3 million, respectively. The research also found that heat stress can reduce lamb birthweight by 0.6-1.4kg.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs by harnessing AI in metamaterials research, leading to faster device development and more precise data analysis. This convergence of AI and metaphotonics has the potential to transform various domains, including diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and security.
Researchers review advances and challenges in applying SLA to evaluate unconventional reservoirs, highlighting its simplicity and convenience. The study proposes modifications to address reservoir heterogeneity and suggests combining SLA with machine learning algorithms for improved accuracy.
A new multitasking substance has been identified to prevent and treat both flu and COVID-19 infections concurrently. The long-acting recombinant cytokine protein rhIL-7-hyFc demonstrated therapeutic and preventive effects against various respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus.
A team of Rice University researchers has developed an analytical model that can predict the curing time of platinum-catalyzed silicone elastomers as a function of temperature. The model could help reduce energy waste and improve throughput for elastomer-based components manufacturing, enabling more efficient soft robotics design.
A new technique for producing polymer solid electrolytes has been developed, eliminating the need for vacuum heat treatment and increasing production speed by 13-fold. This method ensures consistent thickness and surface quality of polymer solid electrolytes, ideal for battery production.
Researchers at Jefferson Lab and industry partners aim to develop compact SRF accelerators for wastewater remediation, breaking down PFAS in drinking water. The project involves adapting lab-born technology with new components, such as niobium-three-tin coatings, to make it operable by industry staff.
A study by MIT scholars finds that workers in lower-paying firms are highly susceptible to underestimating wages at other companies. Providing correct information about salaries can increase the likelihood of workers leaving their current jobs and improve wages.
Researchers at UBC Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute will develop a state-of-the-art crystal growth facility with new high-pressure synthesis apparatus. This enables the discovery and characterization of novel quantum materials, crucial for technological development.
Communications of the ACM has been revamped as a web-first, open-access publication, enabling rapid article publication and enhanced reader experience. The new model aims to increase engagement with the broader computer science community, expand author reach, and showcase cutting-edge ideas and research.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology created a novel catalyst that enhances the efficiency of reactions using contaminated municipal sewage to produce hydrogen. The catalyst, called nickel-iron-oxalate (O-NFF), successfully lowers the voltage required for hydrogen generation and promotes the urea oxidation reaction.
A research team developed an anode protection layer to prevent random electrodeposition of lithium, promoting stable 'bottom electrodeposition' and reducing unnecessary consumption. The breakthrough results in all-solid-state batteries with stable electrochemical performance over extended periods using ultrathin lithium metal anodes.
Researchers developed ultra-thin defect-free semiconducting fibers, over 100 meters long, which can be woven into fabrics. The fibers demonstrate excellent electrical and optoelectronic performance, enabling various applications such as wearable electronics and sensors.
A new AI-powered tool developed by the University of Copenhagen and 3Shape predicts how teeth will move, allowing orthodontists to ensure braces are neither too loose nor too tight. The tool uses scanned imagery of teeth and bone structures to simulate how braces should fit, reducing trial and error.
Researchers used HLRS's Hawk supercomputer to generate valuable thermodynamic data for chemical engineering research. The simulations provide insights into ammonia's fundamental properties and how they change when mixing with other molecules.
Cranfield University has secured over £25 million to establish two new Centres for Doctoral Training, focusing on advancing water security and net zero aviation. The centres will equip students with high-level skills and technologies to drive positive change in these critical areas.
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a significant reduction in natural snow cover days globally, with popular ski hubs moving to remote areas. The European Alps, Australian Alps, and Japanese Alps are expected to experience the most decline, threatening local livelihoods and ecosystems.
The roadmap outlines six themes focusing on technical capacity, products and production methods that capitalize on engineering biology to reduce carbon intensity. It aims to limit harmful anthropogenic impacts, enable adaptation to climate change and create sustainable alternatives.
A team of researchers developed a time-optimal control method for autonomous ships, optimizing maneuvering performance in dynamic sea conditions. The new control system accounts for various forces affecting ship movement and can improve efficiency and safety, reducing shipping costs and carbon emissions.
A novel S. cerevisiae yeast strain has been successfully developed to selectively overproduce carotenoids, overcoming the challenges of extraction and purification from natural sources. The optimized strain can increase carotenoid output by 5-fold and store carotenoids within the yeast microorganisms.
A recent study successfully transferred ECF switches from Escherichia coli to Sinorhizobium meliloti, demonstrating high transferability and functionality across species. The findings suggest that these bacteria could serve as universal hosts for synthetic biology applications.
Researchers at UNIST have developed a groundbreaking technology that enables the real-time display of colors and shapes through changes in nanostructures. Utilizing block copolymers, they achieved the self-assembly of photonic crystal structures on a large scale, mimicking natural phenomena observed in butterfly wings and bird feathers.
Researchers at Tohoku University have created a tuneable terahertz wave filter that can achieve higher transmission rates and better signal quality than conventional systems. The new filter uses Fabry-Perot interferometry to control the filtering effect, enabling selective transmission of desired frequencies.
A new study published in The Plant Cell has identified a genetic element controlling cold-induced sweetening (CIS) in potatoes. CIS is a major production problem for the potato processing industry, causing undesirable dark brown-black color when potatoes are fried.
Researchers have developed a copper(II)-alkylperoxo complex that can selectively oxidize unactivated alkanes, showcasing exceptional reactivity and paving the way for sustainable technology. By manipulating the solvent environment, the team uncovered the unique properties of their catalyst.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective method to create waterproof and grease-resistant paper coatings using extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from anaerobic granular sludge. The study found that EPS derived from waste sludge can improve paper coating properties, including water/grease-proofing behaviour.
A research team has synthesized a cutting-edge manganese-fluorine catalyst with exceptional oxidizing power, capable of extracting electrons from compounds. The catalyst facilitates efficient electron loss from toxic toluene derivatives, marking a significant breakthrough in catalytic research.
The team's innovative design enables ultra-compact quasi-true-time-delay technology, increasing data rate and channel capacity by nearly doubling that of conventional wireless arrays. This breakthrough could lead to faster service and more data transmission for cellphone users.
Researchers developed imaging technique with 800nm spatial resolution to measure three-dimensional temperature distribution inside industrial zeolite-catalyst particles. The technique revealed utilization of active sites and evolutions of reaction intermediates during MTO reactions.
Researchers found that firms with mismatched positioning strategies, functional capabilities, and governance modes experience reduced innovation outcomes. Strong marketing capabilities are associated with increased innovation performance in joint development agreements for high differentiation-oriented firms.
Researchers at UNSW Sydney have developed a new technology offering test strips for rapid, on-the-spot disease detection. The test strips are accurate and cost-effective, making them suitable for various applications including public health, environmental diagnostics, and cancer cell detection.
Agricultural activities in Lombardy have a significant impact on PM2.5 concentration, comparable to other known sources of pollution. The study used innovative GEOAI models to analyze the relationship between land use and air pollution, providing new insights into agricultural pollutants.