News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A research team has developed a novel nano-micelle packaging method for delivering CRISPR/Cas9 components, allowing for efficient genome editing in the mouse brain. The optimized nano-micelles enable targeted and precise editing of genomic sequences with minimal off-target effects.
Researchers outline proposals for 'technosignatures' - evidence of technology use in other parts of the Universe- to search for intelligent extraterrestrial life. The study suggests searching for industrial pollution, large satellite swarms, and gigantic space engineering work as potential signs of civilization.
The University of Melbourne is establishing a Contemplative Studies Centre, led by Dr Nicholas Van Dam, with a focus on evidence-based research and guidelines for contemplative practices. The centre aims to bring together experts from around the world to critically assess practices and provide authentic experiences.
A new recycling method for carbon fibre composites has been developed by researchers from the University of Sydney, maintaining 90% of their original strength. The process uses a two-phase approach, including pyrolysis and oxidation, to preserve the functionality of carbon fibres.
A study found that multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains are spreading between pigs, farmworkers, and community residents in North Carolina, raising concerns about a potential emerging public health threat. The strains were closely related and carried genes conferring resistance to multiple antibiotics.
A new AI tool developed at the University of Gothenburg uses deep learning to analyse microscope images, extracting more details and information than traditional methods. The tool, called Deep Track 2.0, simplifies data generation and allows for real-time analysis and customised information retrieval.
Researchers developed a framework to detect and recover from pole-dynamics attacks (PDAs) in cyber-physical systems (CPSs). The approach uses software-defined networking (SDN) and a novel attack-detection algorithm, enabling real-time performance recovery and stable CPS operation.
NUTRITION 2021 LIVE ONLINE features leading scientists & the latest research on physiology & metabolism, clinical nutrition & food systems. The virtual meeting provides unparalleled access to a global community of nutrition experts.
A comprehensive study has been published in Nutrition & Diabetes that provides glycaemic index (GI) values for a variety of non-Western foods. The research aims to widen the application globally and provide ways to reduce GI of carbohydrate-rich staples.
The study provides important findings for the solar industry by analyzing solar cell processes at an ultra-fast scale. The researchers used time-resolved X-ray photoemission spectroscopy to identify a previously unobserved channel for charge separation, revealing new insights into quantum efficiency and optimization possibilities.
A new tool helps managers balance benefits and drawbacks of wildlife tourism, considering factors like conservation, animal welfare, and ecosystem impacts. The framework reveals the wholistic acceptability of white shark cage-diving and identifies areas for improvement.
A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that European unions have been practicing solidarity in many cases, improving working conditions for peripheral workers. In contrast, some unions have adopted a dualist approach, prioritizing their own members' interests over those of non-unionized workers.
Researchers developed polymeric nano-micelles that target specific levels of c-Myc expression, a key factor in cancer cell proliferation. The study showed varying efficacy depending on tumor c-Myc expression levels, with higher expression associated with better antitumor activity.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers argues that extreme climate forecasts can be counterproductive, leading to public distrust in climate science. The study analyzed 79 climate-caused apocalypse predictions and found that many have expired without consequence, undermining the credibility of such forecasts.
A new study found that whale sharks can heal from lacerations and abrasions within weeks, with partially removed dorsal fins re-growing. This knowledge provides a preliminary understanding of wound healing in this species, highlighting the importance of conservation management to minimize human impacts.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed graphene oxide nanofiltration membranes that can effectively recycle pulping wastewater while rejecting chemicals, reducing energy consumption and costs. The new technology has the potential to save the paper industry over 30% in energy usage.
Scientists have expanded their understanding of the hop genome, which could lead to the development of new hop varieties with desirable traits and improved production of compounds with potential health benefits. The research has implications for both the brewing industry and medical researchers studying hops.
Scientists have successfully demonstrated a quantum computer demonstrator using Rydberg atoms, which can perform computing operations with high precision and scalability. The research uses sophisticated laser systems to control and entangle qubits, paving the way for the development of a functional quantum computer.
Researchers have identified a candidate gene and two deleterious mutations underlying male sterility in sugi trees, enabling selective breeding to reduce pollen load. This breakthrough has the potential to alleviate pollen allergy issues in Japan and globally.
Research by Cornell University's ILR School found that collaborating with a star employee reduces non-star employees' credit and gains in professional status during successful collaborations. However, it can mitigate or outweigh the loss of professional status associated with collaborative failure.
A Cornell University study reveals that increasing the length of an initial job candidate shortlist can help hiring managers consider female candidates more, supporting gender equity efforts. By extending this list, it can increase the consideration of female candidates in male-dominant domains.
Researchers David Rode and Paul Fischbeck argue that decision sciences can play a crucial role in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. They emphasize the importance of collecting accurate data on population infection rates to inform decision-making and policy development.
The EINST4INE project aims to develop new methods, skills, and concepts to guide businesses through digital transformation. The initiative will recruit 15 early-stage researchers to tackle real-world challenges faced by industry.
Researchers are studying ways to reduce waste in the seafood industry by using market incentives, with a focus on Mexico's SmartFish program. The study found that while the model improved sustainability, it also introduced new points of waste, including plastic packaging.
A team at Tokyo Metropolitan University studied liquid foams and found that bubble movement was qualitatively different depending on the range of bubble sizes present. They discovered a 'relaxation' phenomenon where bubbles rearranged themselves to reach a new stable state, leading to unique correlated motion observed in hexagonal foams.
Researchers developed low-cost artificial robotic skin with vision-guided sensing, enabling large-scale tactile sensing technology. The system can process tactile information and determine contact force and geometry.
GlycoNet invests $1.3 million in new sugar research projects to tackle unmet needs in national healthcare, aiming to deliver made-in-Canada solutions and protect Canadians' lives. The funding supports various projects, including the development of gene therapies and enzymatic tools for blood supply innovation.
Researchers are developing fast, energy-efficient optical hardware alternatives to meet AI's data processing challenges. The PHOENICS project aims to create photonic neuromorphic processors that inspire from the human brain, providing unparalleled computing power and energy efficiency.
The February edition of SLAS Technology features a special collection on Artificial Intelligence in Process Automation, highlighting its applications in drug discovery, automated gene editing, and machine learning. The issue also celebrates the top 10 most-cited articles within the journal's history.
The February edition of SLAS Discovery explores the use of hit discovery methodologies and technologies in both small molecule and large molecule drug discovery. The issue features nine articles of original research, including those on high-throughput screening, mass spectrometry, and AI-driven screening.
Students from lower socio-economic groups are less likely to participate in sport or physical activity at university due to cost and time constraints. Those with prior experience in sport before starting university are more likely to continue participating.
Assistant Professor Chenyun Pan is exploring alternative materials and geometric structures to enhance efficiency in intermediate-length interconnects. His research aims to alleviate the limitations of traditional copper-based interconnects and deliver improved chip performance.
A new system developed by the University of Córdoba's research groups can predict levels of amygdalin in almonds and classify sweet and bitter ones on an industrial scale. The portable equipment uses Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to analyze nuts quickly and non-invasively.
A study by NTU Singapore found that the Singapore public is more accepting of drones in industrial zones than residential areas. The research team identified fears and concerns, such as privacy loss and misuse of drones, as key factors influencing public acceptance. To improve acceptance levels, policymakers and regulators should adapt...
Researchers at ETRI developed a software that can accurately predict the level of VR sickness based on artificial intelligence technology. The technology analyzes the correlation between VR elements and sickness using machine learning and biomarker pattern detection.
Researchers have developed a new reaction, called ASHA ligation, for efficiently forming amide bonds under mild aqueous conditions. This method is fast, chemoselective, and broadly applicable, opening pathways to new approaches in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.
Researchers developed a 5G indoor DAS technology that can receive millimeter wave-based broadband signals and transmit them into buildings. The technology significantly improves transmission capacity, equipment size, and deployment cost compared to conventional systems.
Researchers at Graphene Flagship partner Fraunhofer ISI predict that graphene will be commercially available for various industrial applications, including batteries, solar panels, electronics, and medical technologies. By 2025, market demand is expected to quadruple, with graphene being incorporated into ubiquitous commodities.
Researchers have found that three ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons are being emitted globally, including one recently discovered. The majority of these emissions originate from Asia and southeastern France, suggesting a link to the fluorocarbon industry.
Researchers at Brown University have created a new type of graphene nanochannel water filter that can efficiently remove contaminants from liquids. The VAGME membrane technology, developed by Robert Hurt and Muchun Liu, features narrow channels that allow small molecules to pass through while blocking larger ones.
A study in Plant Health Progress identified Fusarium flower blight and Helminthosporium leaf spot as prominent diseases in southeastern US hemp production. The research also found nutritional deficiencies, toxicities, and issues with excess water and herbicide injuries.
Researchers at the University of Bath developed a sustainable polymer using xylose, with applications in polyurethane, bio-medicine, and batteries. The polymer's properties can be easily controlled to make it flexible or crystalline.
Two ERC-funded innovation projects will develop nanometric sensors for brain surgery and flexible X-ray detectors for medical imaging. The projects aim to reduce damages and improve efficiency in healthcare and industrial non-destructive testing.
Scientists are developing new solutions for honeybee colony collapse, a threat to global food security. The University of California's four-campus network will use breeding programs, medications, and monitoring tools to combat the issue.
The University of Texas at Arlington has seen significant success with the Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship Program, with over 40 students earning merit-based awards in recent years. The fellowships are designed to attract top talent to the field of transportation and promote workforce development.
Researchers at Columbia University are developing a novel platform to enable factory workers to work remotely using a robot teleoperation system. The system will allow workers to specify high-level task goals without expert knowledge of the robot hardware and configuration, enabling greater job access for workers regardless of geograph...
A research team from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics regenerates deactivated catalysts in the methanol-to-olefins (MTO) process by transforming coke to active intermediates. This approach promotes light olefin formation and recovers catalyst activity, achieving high selectivity rates.
Researchers have created a millimeter-band signal propagation model that can predict wireless signal behavior in industrial environments. The study demonstrates the potential of Wi-Fi technology to replace cabled connections in manufacturing processes, enabling faster and more reliable data transfer.
A new model uses satellite data, machine learning, and human rights expertise to identify vessels at high risk of engaging in forced labor. Up to 26% of the global fishing fleet was found to be at high risk, with an estimated 100,000 individuals working on these vessels.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have identified a new mechanism for the formation of bastnèsite, a rare earth-bearing mineral essential for low-carbon energy generation and smart devices. The discovery has important economic implications due to the high demand for rare earth elements and their limited availability.
A new analysis of 2018 studies found that 13.4% of publications disclosed food industry involvement, leading to research findings nearly six times more favorable to industry interests. This study highlights the potential for industry bias in nutrition research and calls for exploring mechanisms to prevent such compromises.
Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a biodegradable film for food packaging made from bacterial cellulose scraps and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The product outperforms traditional films, with improved mechanical strength and reduced water vapor permeability.
Researchers at Imperial College London used AI to optimize plasma accelerator parameters, improving performance and reducing the need for human intervention. The algorithm achieved optimal results faster than human operators, paving the way for compact and affordable accelerators with various applications.
A novel cathode design concept has been proposed to improve the performance of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, which are considered attractive alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. The new design eliminates the polysulfide shuttle effect, reducing the battery's life cycle and increasing its energy density.
Researchers found that knee replacement surgery using a tourniquet increases the risk of serious complications by 73%, including blood clots, wound infections, and the need for further surgery. Patients who underwent surgery with a tourniquet reported an average 19% more pain after surgery compared to those without.
Researchers have made two discoveries that expand additive manufacturing in aerospace and other industries relying on strong metal parts. They presented a process map to help manufacturers avoid generating defects during laser powder bed fusion.
A new study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that stevia can disrupt communications between different bacteria in the gut microbiome. Stevia may not be as safe as initially thought, with potential implications for the food industry.
A comprehensive review of biosynthesis methods for diverse inorganic nanomaterials produced under mild conditions by microorganisms and bacteriophages, highlights strategies for improving producibility and crystallinity.
A study by MIT researchers suggests that industrial parks in China with strong political connections underperform their counterparts, leading to a 5.2% decrease in GDP per capita. The research found that about a quarter of provincial-level party secretaries have ties to city-level party secretaries, influencing economic decisions.
A recent study published in top journals found that noncompete agreements restrict workers' ability to switch jobs, leading to lower wages and reduced job mobility. The research also revealed that banning low-wage noncompetes leads to higher wages and increased job-to-job mobility for affected workers.