News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A new engineering strategy introduces photo-controllable profragrance nanoparticles with flash nanoprecipitation technology, allowing for tunable particle size and precise control over fragrance release. This innovation enables the scale-up of profragrance fabrication and has potential for industrial applications.
A team of researchers created particles with an off-center core that can be tracked under a microscope to study rotational dynamics. Their findings show that neighboring spheres rotate coupled and move in opposite directions, like meshed gears, and that there is a relationship between local crystallinity and rotational diffusivity.
Researchers developed a new transparent material that captures and removes droplets and aerosols from indoor air, effectively eliminating potential sources of transmission. The coating can be applied to various surfaces and is compatible with antiviral materials.
Scientists have developed an inexpensive transparent coating that can capture airborne aerosol droplets, reducing the spread of respiratory diseases. The coating, made from common cosmetic ingredients, was tested on various surfaces and found to trap nearly all incoming aerosols.
Researchers found that adding a new outlet can modestly benefit existing locations in markets with few same-brand outlets, leading to increased revenues and profits. The study's findings suggest prioritizing markets with few same-brand outlets, newer brands, cross-brands, and online travel agency sales channels for expansion.
The University of the Basque Country's research team has created mortars and concretes with optimal thermal and mechanical efficiency, replacing natural materials with industrial by-products. The new materials have good thermal conductivity and are suitable for use in radiant floor heating systems, reducing CO2 emissions.
Researchers found that tiny hairs on honeybee abdomens reduce friction during movements, conserving energy and reducing wear. This discovery could inspire the design of longer-lasting moving parts.
Researchers have discovered the VFD's capabilities in controlling chemical reactivity, materials processing, and probing self-organised systems. The device has shown promise in synthesizing various compounds and could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly production methods.
Using high-performance computing (HPC) and experiments, researchers continue to develop more efficient methods for producing graphene at the industrial scale. The team used GCS HPC resources to run simulations of graphene formation on liquid copper, aiming to create a faster and cheaper method for large-scale production.
A study by SMU researchers found that corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities have a positive impact on future operating performance, but only in tangible asset-intensive industries such as manufacturing and utilities. For companies in intangible asset-intensive sectors like technology, there is no significant beneficial effect.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore launches a $2 billion green investments program to promote environmentally sustainable projects. The Singapore Green Finance Centre, launched by SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business and Imperial College Business School, aims to build a new ecosystem for sustainable investing in Asia. Researchers wil...
Scientific papers suggesting nicotine has a protective effect against COVID-19 were funded by the tobacco industry. Studies have since found that smoking increases the risk of COVID-19-related death. The BMJ investigation reveals undisclosed financial links between authors and the tobacco industry.
Dr. Caroline Krejci is developing a new system that allows farmers to choose trusted drivers, providing more control and autonomy at lower costs. The project aims to reduce fees paid to middlemen and increase convenience for farmers.
Experts identify four under-researched areas critical to advancing symptom management in progressive MS, including fatigue, mobility impairment, pain, and cognitive impairment. Rehabilitative therapies show promise for managing these symptoms and improving physical and cognitive function.
Researchers developed a mathematical model SSSAFE to predict landslides by analyzing slope stability over time. The model successfully predicted the 2017 Xinmo landslide, highlighting significant movement 10 months before the disaster occurred.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to compare the performance of different wind turbine designs, using machine learning and social science analysis. The study found that this technique can provide a robust and accurate way to determine the merit of competing technologies.
Researchers discovered high concentrations of mercury in Greenland glacial meltwaters, comparable to those found in industrial China. This finding raises concerns about the impact on coastal ecosystems and the seafood industry, which is a significant export for Greenland.
Researchers discovered high concentrations of mercury in Greenland glacial meltwaters, exceeding typical river levels by up to 1500 times. This finding raises questions about the impact of glacial melting on aquatic ecosystems and food chains.
Scientists at Osaka University employ machine learning algorithms to assess the remaining useful life of mechanical rolling bearings, which may lead to industrial cost savings and fewer discarded parts. The new method improves prediction accuracy by about 32%.
A team of researchers at the University of Ottawa has developed a new pathway to transform CO2 gas into solid carbon forms that emit light, creating a low-energy alternative. The breakthrough uses visible light to initiate dissociation in carbon dioxide molecules on a nanostructured silver surface.
A new type of coronary artery stent is being developed with ultra-low profile struts and a smart surface that can help improve healing and prevent blood clots. The stents aim to reduce the risk of restenosis and thrombosis, which occur in 3-10% of cases.
Researchers have developed crystalline supermirrors with ultra-low optical absorption losses, opening up new applications in respiratory gas analysis, greenhouse gas detection, and molecular spectroscopy. These mirrors absorb less than 10 out of a million photons, significantly improving sensitivity for detecting trace gases.
A new study by University of Maryland researchers found that downloading a major hotel chain's app has a significant and negative impact on customer spending. Lower-level loyalty customers are more likely to shop around for better rates after downloading the app, decreasing their share of wallet.
Researchers at Hiroshima University engineered a new strain of heat-loving bacteria that thrive in high temperatures and produce acetone efficiently. This breakthrough could simplify and cost-effectively replace traditional methods for producing acetone, paving the way for more sustainable biofuel production.
A new study reveals that many UK farmers are not prioritizing adapting to the effects of climate change due to uncertainty and focus on short-term profitability. However, innovative practices such as improving soil health and adopting risk-spreading strategies can help build resilience within farming businesses.
The Ulsan 10,000 Genome Project has successfully completed the sequencing of 10,044 whole genomes, including 5,300 patients and 4,700 healthy individuals in Ulsan. This comprehensive genomic data will help accelerate the commercialization of genomic research in Korea.
Research from the University of Liverpool and Loughborough University has developed electrolyte formulations for lithium-oxygen batteries, significantly improving cycle stability. The technology could provide greater energy storage than conventional lithium-ion batteries.
A study analyzing 340 European soil samples reveals high levels of pesticide residues in conventional agriculture, while organic farming practices show lower contamination. The research emphasizes the need for regulations and reference points to protect soil biodiversity and quality.
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has announced the recipients of its scientific achievement awards, recognizing top researchers, clinicians, and educators for their contributions to advancing nutrition research, education, and practice. The awards will be presented virtually during NUTRITION 2021 LIVE ONLINE.
Scientists have developed a new method to extract metals like copper from their parent ore body using an electric field. This non-invasive technique has the potential to transform the mining industry by dissolving metals from previously inaccessible deposits.
Researchers studied Netflix expansion in 40 Asian countries and one restricted country, finding a 19.7% increase in pirated content search in the restricted country. Demand for pirated content is also higher for less dialogue-oriented content, particularly among non-English-speaking consumers.
Researchers found that older lithium-based batteries are safer due to reduced energy potential, leading to more efficient designs and improved safety. The study's results will aid in deriving safety factors for subsequent use of used batteries.
A new methodology developed by the UPV/EHU helps SME software departments create software services aligned with Industry 4.0, improving customer experience and after-sales support. The methodology uses semantic technologies and 3D visualization to analyze shortcomings and generate new services, enhancing customer loyalty.
Two compounds, (-)-geosmin and 3-methyl-1H-indole, are found to be primary contributors to the musty and moldy scents of cocoa beans. Measuring their amounts within cocoa beans could help detect off-putting scents and flavors.
Researchers identified a set of approaches to assess human-automation teams' communication, focusing on structure, emotion, and content. The 11-critical approaches aim to improve Soldier-robot interactions, enabling less manual input and more natural teamworking.
The University of Minnesota will host a new Organ and Tissue Preservation Center, focusing on technologies to rapidly rewarm cryopreserved organs. This center is part of the Biostasis Research Institute's 'Apollo Program' to develop new preservation methods for human organs.
A joint research project between Korea and UK successfully tested AR services on Seoul Subway Line No. 8, demonstrating immersive multimedia experiences with speeds up to 30 times faster than current transmission rates. The test utilized a 5G mobile backhaul network, enabling simultaneous use of AR-immersive services by 190 users.
A new Stanford University-led study uses AI and satellite imagery to locate and monitor hard-to-regulate industries, such as brick kilns in Bangladesh. The approach reveals that over three-fourths of kilns are illegally constructed near schools, and the government under-reports kilns with respect to regulations.
A systematic review found that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) significantly increase the risk of stroke, with a 86% increased risk compared to non-TBI patients. Stroke risk remains high for up to five years after injury.
Researchers at Monash University have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the deleterious immune response in rheumatoid arthritis. By examining the molecular and cellular levels of T cell recognition, the team identified an immune signature that may provide a potential avenue for diagnostic development or therapeutic inter...
The Southeast Regional Sun Grant Center has awarded grants totaling over $2 million to support six research projects aimed at developing sustainable, bio-derived products. These projects will provide new insights and materials for the southeastern US bioeconomy, creating essential information for future economic growth.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a theoretical model to predict the formation and size of large cavitation bubbles in hydraulic systems. The model helps engineers design safer systems and guidelines to minimize wear and tear, reducing major failures.
An international team validated five commercial assays for tumour DNA sequencing, detecting late-stage cancer with 0.5% circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) sensitivity. The study outlines best-practice guidelines and future development priorities for ctDNA assays in cancer diagnostics and monitoring.
The April issue of SLAS Technology explores the therapeutic potential of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in applications ranging from wound healing and hair growth enhancement to cancer treatment and stem cell differentiation. However, limitations in controlling the temporal pattern of ROS release hinder their clinical translation.
The April edition of SLAS Discovery features research on PROTACs, targeting protein degradation, and kinase family profiling. Authors apply the Four Pillars Framework to expedite PROTAC development and inform pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic understanding.
Scientists at the University of York highlight the need for more research into the environmental impact of sunscreen on coral reefs. The study reveals that UV-filter compounds have toxic effects on marine organisms and that current research has significant gaps, particularly in understanding climate-related risks.
A new study from MIT-led researchers found that people living in industrialized societies have gut bacteria that swap genes at much higher rates. This phenomenon occurs more frequently due to specific diets and lifestyles, potentially leading to intestinal health issues.
Arash Ajoudani has made a significant impact on the field of human-robot collaboration and telerobotics with his research. He has contributed to several successful European projects, including ERGO-Lean and SOPHIA, which aim to develop collaborative robotics systems capable of anticipating human behavior.
Researchers developed an antibacterial gel bandage using durian husk, which works even at freezing temperatures and contains natural antimicrobial compounds derived from yeast. The organic gel is non-toxic, biodegradable, and has a smaller environmental footprint than conventional synthetic bandages.
Researchers have developed small, swimming robots that can magnetically heal themselves on-the-fly after breaking into two or three pieces. The strategy could be used to make hardier devices for environmental or industrial clean up.
Researchers in Italy and UK developed an automatic process to assess nanofiber fabrication quality, achieving 92.5% accuracy. The new system reduces the need for human inspection and minimizes anomalies, improving uniformity and quality.
Researchers at the University of Toronto found that the food industry interacted with government more than 80% of the time regarding Bill S-228, a failed bill to limit marketing to Canadian children. The study analyzed over 3,800 interactions and found that industry stakeholders dominated discussions on children's marketing and policy.
The REMi system, featuring innovative sensor tech developed by RMIT University, has been launched to deliver real-time and non-invasive resident monitoring and alerts. It enables the aged care workforce to non-intrusively monitor residents during the night and receive alerts at critical moments.
A recent study by University of California San Diego researchers identified 12 essential attributes that explain why commercial carbon capture and sequestration projects succeed or fail in the US. The credibility of revenues and incentives is crucial, with policies like the 45Q tax credit providing a guaranteed revenue stream.
The partnership aims to drive digital innovation in the region through three major projects: AI Innovation Park, semiconductor industry development, and smart healthcare research. The initiatives are expected to foster education, research, and entrepreneurship based on AI and Big Data.
A study found a significant increase in boys born with undescended testicles in France between 2002 and 2014. The researchers identified clusters of cases in areas with high levels of environmental pollution from industries such as coal mining and metal works.
A new study by Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine has found that women veterinarians earn an average of $100,000 less than their male counterparts annually. The disparity affects recent graduates and the top half of earners, with partnerships proving more beneficial for women's income earning potential.
A study by NTU and WeBank found that mobile banking security, service quality, and system quality are the top factors influencing customer loyalty. The results showed that a multi-level approach is needed to build customer trust, including providing multiple security features and user-friendly interface design.
Dr. Kelly Haas is studying the structure, stability, and resilience of the hand microbiome in collaboration with GOJO Industries. Her goal is to understand how the hand microbiome responds to hand hygiene events and develop new products that minimize the trade-off between public health and personal hand health.
The UK Soft Drinks Industry Levy led to a 10% decrease in sugar purchased in soft drinks, with households consuming 30g less per week. The levy incentivised manufacturers to reduce sugar content without affecting overall volume sales.