News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A new platform has been developed that provides suppliers with a certain amount of choice, improving supply and demand matching for underutilized resources. The approach was found to perform better than existing methods, especially when there is limited information about the supplier's preferences.
The Regional Nutritional Information Program was a key component of the U.S. Sugar Association's public relations campaign, designed to promote sugar's safety and benefits in a balanced diet. The program involved dietitians hosting workshops, influencing dental professionals' attitudes towards sugar, and shaping oral health messages.
The study found that indoor tanning is often free at secondary facilities, especially apartments, and offers discounted rates at primary tanning salons. Marketing strategies like unlimited tanning packages and time-limited price reductions appeal to young adults.
A recent study by Swansea University highlights the persistent gender pay gap in the airline industry, with women facing lower salaries and higher work insecurity due to their roles. The research finds that UK airlines lag behind European counterparts in terms of pay equality.
Researchers at Harvard University have synthesized sufficient quantities of the potent anti-cancer agent E7130 to enable rigorous studies of its biological activity, pharmacological properties, and efficacy. The team's achievement is a landmark in drug discovery, providing new insights into the molecule's complex mode of action and pot...
Researchers have developed a two-step process to more efficiently break down carbohydrates into their single sugar components, producing bioethanol or biobutanol for use as fuel. The process produces about 30% more sugars than traditional methods and has the potential to commercialize green fuel production.
A study analyzed green industry firms' online marketing adoption rates, finding that smaller businesses invest more in online ads after initial hesitation. The investigation highlights the need for education programs to help green industry businesses integrate online advertising into daily operations.
The new framework helps government and industry organizations visualize their ability to out-maneuver attacks by scoring their agility. Researchers used a honeypot system to attract and analyze malicious traffic, allowing them to better understand how cyberattacks evolve over time.
A machine learning platform called AirSurf-Lettuce uses computer vision and deep learning to categorize lettuce crops in fields, measuring quantity, size, and location. This technology can help reduce yield loss up to 30% by providing precise harvest times and improving crop management decisions.
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) has developed the first cyber agility framework to score the agility of cyber attackers and defenders. This framework uses a honeypot to analyze malicious traffic over time, allowing defenders to visualize how well they out-maneuver attacks.
Foam collapse occurs via two distinct mechanisms: 'propagating' mode, where a film is absorbed into the surrounding liquid, and 'penetrating' mode, where droplets release from a rupture event break other bubbles. Understanding these mechanisms can help tailor foams to specific applications.
Commercial fishers believe they can play a key role in reducing marine litter, with many already participating in initiatives like Fishing for Litter. The study found that fishers are passionate about their seas and believe collective action is needed to address the issue.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a faster and more efficient way to build amino acid chains, known as polypeptides. This breakthrough could enable mass production of protein chains used in various industries, including chemistry and biology.
A new research collaboration aims to develop detection and monitoring devices for smartphones and wearables, enabling real-time health data collection and improving health outcomes. The partnership will create state-of-the-art personal medical devices that can measure a wide range of biomarkers.
Researchers at Swansea University have developed a 3D printed thermoelectric device that converts heat into electric power with an efficiency factor of up to 1.7, significantly higher than the previous best for printed materials. The breakthrough could boost energy efficiency in industries with high temperatures, such as steelmaking.
A €17 million fund has backed 170 innovative projects aiming to revolutionize medical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and manufacturing processes. Breakthrough concepts include single-photon visible light image sensors, spectroscopy-based cancer detection, and smart devices for climate change mitigation.
A UCI-led study analyzes global water usage trends from 1980 to 2016, identifying hot spots of stress and opportunities for conservation. The researchers propose strategies to build resilience in the face of climate change, including dry cooling technologies and improved management practices.
A recent study has uncovered how a non-profit research organisation has been deployed by its corporate backers to push industry-favourable positions to policymakers and international bodies. The International Life Science Institute (ILSI) analysed over 17,000 pages of emails obtained through Freedom of Information requests.
A new survey found that around one in five doctors are aware of patient feedback about their care online, while the majority did not encourage patients to leave feedback. The study also revealed that GPs view online feedback as mostly negative, particularly on social media.
Fishing workers in England and Wales experience poor general health, with 2.8% reporting 'bad' or 'very bad' health and 10.3% limited by long-term illness. The industry is facing social, environmental, and political change, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Researchers introduce an electrically-driven steam methane reforming (SMR) process that maximizes methane conversion while limiting carbon byproducts. The approach could eliminate nearly 1% of global CO2 emissions if implemented globally.
Research suggests that optimized work schedules can lead to less stress, better patient care, and reduced turnover in nursing homes. The study found that facilities using the 'Work-Life Needs' method showed a link between improved scheduling and fewer pressure ulcers in patients.
A new analytical tool for ultra-trace ratiometric detection of capsaicinoids has been developed, enabling the quick and reliable quantification of spicy tastes in kimchi. The method uses a combined technology of endogenous fluorescence imaging techniques and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy.
The DGIST-ETH Micro Robot Research Center won 6 awards, including 3 golds and a special award from the Taiwan Invention Association, at The 47th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva. The center's inventions featured innovative technologies such as magnetic control and video systems for surgical applications.
A study found that Coca-Cola's contracts allow the company to 'quash' health research findings at public universities. The researchers argue that this suppresses critical health information and contravenes the company's commitment to transparent support for science.
The Australian Centre for Innovative Manufacturing (ACIM) at Flinders University aims to create jobs and promote growth in strategic industries. The facility will explore the application of advanced technologies like automation, robotics, and digital assembly.
Airbnb's flexible lodging capacity can help stabilize demand during peak travel seasons, offsetting higher hotel prices. The platform disrupts traditional pricing strategies in some markets, minimizing seasonal pricing needs. Higher-end hotels are most affected by Airbnb's business traveler targeting
Researchers suggest new smartphone apps and social media can help traditional weavers in Malaysia connect directly with customers, reducing exploitation. Digital technology can increase visibility and access to less exploitative transactions, improving weavers' livelihoods.
Researchers at NIST have collected accurate and comprehensive data on the fundamental aspects of laser welding, enabling better computer simulations. This improved understanding could give industries more control over laser welding processes, leading to faster production times and reduced energy consumption.
The study proposes strategies for hotels to cope with competition from Airbnb, including abandoning seasonal pricing and adjusting rates. Hotels in cities with high demand for leisure travel and low-end options may need to re-evaluate their pricing strategies.
Researchers have identified areas with persistent seismic signals caused by industrial processes using a dense sensor network spanning the US. The map, developed by Los Alamos National Laboratory, pinpoints prominent sources of industrial activity, including wind farms and large water pumping stations.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a new technique to produce microscopic 3D images of tissue inside the body using existing optical fibre technology. This approach enables clinicians to examine living tissue in real-time, paving the way for minimally-invasive 3D optical biopsies.
A new research paper proposes an alternative technology - renewable electrosynthesis - to replace fossil fuels in the production of chemicals, plastics, clothing, and fertilizers. The process uses CO2 from the air, renewable electricity, and innovative catalysts to create carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative products.
A study by Florida State University found Airbnb's exponential growth is devoureding hotel revenues and driving down room prices and occupancy rates. The company's listings have grown over 100% a year, significantly affecting hotels' room prices and revenues.
Researchers have developed a new type of carbon-based catalyst made from natural bacterial cellulose, showing high specific surface areas and large pore volumes. The catalyst exhibits versatility in accelerating various important reactions, outperforming state-of-the-art catalysts in some cases.
HRL Laboratories' breakthrough alloy is the world's first printable high-strength aluminum, registered with the Aluminum Association. The registration validates its commercial value and enables companies to access the alloy through specific powder numbers.
Australia has launched a $245 million national research hub to develop new generation satellite technologies, projected to boost its space industry from $3 billion to $12 billion by 2030, generating 20,000 jobs.
An interdisciplinary research group at KIT is developing an agile production system that autonomously adapts to changing product specifications using multi-modal sensors and artificial intelligence. The system aims to improve remanufacturing processes, enabling the reuse of electric motors from the automotive industry.
Researchers at RMIT University developed a new method to track sludge flow during thermal treatment, enabling real-time monitoring of process performance. The technique enables engineers to design better wastewater treatment plants and boost biogas production by tracking how sewage sludge flows.
A recent study found that nearly a quarter of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK view Brexit as a major obstacle to their success, with investment and exporting being significantly affected. SMEs are disproportionately impacted by uncertainty and have lower resilience to unexpected shocks.
A study published in The Lancet found that caesarean sections in low- and middle-income countries lead to significantly higher maternal and infant mortality rates. The analysis of 12 million pregnancies revealed that women undergoing emergency caesarean sections were twice more likely to die than those delivering by elective means.
Scientists at UC Davis and USDA's ARS developed a new approach to sequence walnut genomes, using long-read DNA sequencing and optical genome mapping. The resulting high-quality genome sequences can help breeders develop disease-resistant varieties.
Researchers at Saarland University have developed motorless pumps and self-regulating valves made from ultrathin electroactive silicone film. These devices can continuously vary flow rates or regulate performance, and indicate blockages in real-time. The technology offers significant energy efficiency gains over conventional components.
Researchers predict widespread adoption of magnetoresistive sensors in biomedicine for genetic disease detection and treatment, as well as in flexible electronics and human-computer interaction systems. By 2030, these sensors may enable wearable devices, smart homes, and autonomous vehicles with high accuracy and low power consumption.
A Lehigh University team led by Frank E. Curtis is developing new algorithms to improve resilience in the Department of Energy's Grid Optimization Competition. The goal is to address complex optimization problems, such as the SCOPF problem, and develop more flexible and resilient grid software.
The VA's 'whole health' model is a leading-edge effort to address social determinants of health and move from volume to value. The model features multimodal approaches in integrative health, including evidence-informed complementary and integrative approaches as part of a commitment to diminishing reliance on opioids.
Researchers at Swansea University are working on developing new products using micro and nano materials, including high-performance clothing for elite British athletes. The project aims to bridge the gap between concept and production, with a focus on market requirements.
Researchers have found that rogue waves are becoming more prevalent and severe, especially during winter months. The study used long-term data to investigate the behavior of these rare ocean phenomena, which can be hazardous for ships and coastal areas.
Researchers at Waseda University found that partnerships between research institutions and private firms are on the rise, leading to more joint patent applications and a sharp increase in innovation. The study suggests that encouraging collaboration can lead to breakthroughs in nanotechnology and improve technology transfer.
Researchers at Saarland University have created an ultrathin flexible film that can act as a sensor for innovative technologies. The smart glove uses tactile signals to provide real-time feedback and assistance to assembly line workers, helping to prevent costly mistakes.
Researchers discovered a bacterium in camel crickets that breaks down lignin, opening new pathways for biofuel production and chemical manufacturing. The study highlights the value of ecosystem analysis in identifying commercially valuable microorganisms with industrial applications.
Researchers at Saarland University develop robotic arms with flexible, shape-memory wires, allowing for greater agility and precision. These 'muscles' can be used to create large grippers or tiny endoscopes, enabling new applications in medical procedures.
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a film that gives touchscreens a third dimension, enabling virtual buttons to appear and disappear on demand. The technology uses electroactive polymer films to create tactile signals, opening up new possibilities for computer games, internet searches, and satnav devices.
Researchers have developed a method to extract rare-earth elements from phosphogypsum mining waste, a potentially game-changing solution to alleviate the world's REE supply shortages. The use of microorganisms to dissolve the elements has shown promise as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods.
A new sensor system is being developed to monitor the quality of hydrogen at hydrogen fuelling stations, ensuring safe and reliable operation of fuel cell vehicles. The system uses an infrared measuring cell that can detect contaminants in hydrogen, which can damage fuel cells and reduce power output.
Rosa Maria Rojas, a University of Arizona professor, has been awarded the Outstanding Young Professional Award by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration. She is the first Peruvian to win the award, recognizing her significant contributions to the minerals industry.
A University of Texas at Arlington project aims to help small-scale farmers in Texas reduce costs and increase efficiency in transporting their products to market. The study will focus on collaborative transportation and aggregation, potentially leading to better income streams for producers.
A research team at Saarland University has developed an environmentally friendly heating and cooling system that is two to three times more efficient than conventional devices. The system uses 'muscles' made from nickel-titanium alloy to transfer heat, avoiding the use of damaging refrigerants.
A Cornell University team found that the NYS apple industry generates an additional $2 billion in industry output and nearly 12,000 jobs due to its significant support of related industries. The new framework for economic impact analysis provides a more accurate picture of the industry's economic contribution.
Shipra Agrawal, assistant professor of industrial engineering at Columbia University, has developed new learning frameworks and algorithms to account for consumer behavior in product pricing and recommendation. Her research aims to improve matching supply and demand, benefiting both consumers and sellers.