News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
Researchers incorporated nanocrystals of iridium into flash memory designs, demonstrating excellent memory properties and thermal stability. Iridium's high work function and melting point make it an attractive option for improving nonvolatile memory with enhanced trapping ability.
Scientists from Technical University of Munich are investigating how robots can help workers pack large TV sets, reducing costs and improving competitiveness. The CustomPacker project aims to create a safer and more efficient packaging station through human-robot cooperation.
A New Delhi study found that 76.7% of hip fracture patients were vitamin D deficient, with elevated PTH levels also common. The research suggests vitamin D levels may be a useful index for assessing hip fracture risk in elderly people.
A new study confirms a rapid rise in hip fractures in Beijing, with significant increases in rates for older adults. The research reveals that the growing elderly population and increasing sedentary lifestyles are major contributors to this trend, posing a serious socio-economic challenge for healthcare systems.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has presented its Young Investigators Awards to researchers from China, India, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Taiwan, highlighting the need for osteoporosis awareness in the region. The awards recognize outstanding research on hip fractures, falls, and vitamin D deficiency, promoting education, innovati...
The WHO Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) has been released for Singapore, enabling health professionals to accurately assess the absolute risk of osteoporotic fractures. The online calculator, available in 27 country models, provides a 10-year probability of hip fracture and major osteoporotic fractures based on clinical risk factors.
Researchers at UCLA are developing spin-transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-RAM) with great potential over current memory technologies. The technology has achieved densities comparable to dynamic random access memory and speeds comparable to static random access memory.
The University of Manchester has established the UK's first Centre for Doctoral Training in Computer Science, receiving a £2.2m grant from EPSRC. The centre will admit at least 75 students over five years and provide training in research problem-solving, collaboration with industrial users, and real-world impact.
The EUREKA ITEA 2 project developed advanced technologies to exploit multicore architectures, enabling substantial performance improvements for high-performance computing. The ParMA technology has established new goals in modelling and simulation, accelerating research in various domains.
Researchers use earthworms to treat wastewater and soil contaminated with nickel, chromium, vanadium, lead, arsenic, and mercury. The method shows promise as an inexpensive alternative to industrial cleanup methods.
The study used an extensional rheometer to measure flow properties of complex fluids, revealing intriguing effects depending on concentration and velocity. At high speeds, the fluid can fracture like a solid, behaving like a jammed system with clusters locking together.
A new study measures the spatial expansion of global fisheries, revealing a nearly five-fold increase in catch from 1950 to 2005. The study's findings indicate that fisheries have expanded at an unsustainable rate, leaving no room for further expansion.
Researchers are improving rain gardens to reduce runoff and filter pollutants, keeping toxic metals out of storm drains. Scientists have found that biochar-activated carbons can attract heavy metals, leading to more effective filtration.
Ananth Annapragada, a professor at UTHealth School of Biomedical Informatics, has been inducted into the AIMBE College of Fellows for his innovative research and entrepreneurial endeavors. He is being honored for his work on glucose-sensing technology and contrast agents for medical imaging.
The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) presented a record-breaking turnout of 22 scientific posters on cutting-edge salivary diagnostics research. Key findings included emerging technologies and translational applications in the field, marking a significant milestone for the organization.
A University of Cincinnati assistant professor spent 11 months researching face-to-face casting interviews to explore how casting agents consider race, transformation, and selling an image. The study found that many agents are critical of the fashion industry's expectations around race and authenticity.
Bioscience researchers have developed a new approach to breeding resistance to late blight in potatoes, using genetic analysis to identify inherently resistant plants. This breakthrough could lead to more durable disease resistance and the creation of GM varieties that can combine resistance to both blight and nematodes.
A University of Edinburgh study reveals that nanoparticles used in various products can cause distinct lung injuries in rats, with some triggering asthmatic reactions and others leading to severe damage. Researchers emphasize the need for improved testing methods to assess nanoparticle risks.
USDA researchers are developing constructed soils to build better, less-costly sports fields, raingardens, and lawns on degraded land. The most promising mixture includes quarry byproducts and composted chicken litter, which reduces rain runoff and erosion.
McGill researchers develop method to evaluate pork quality using light waves, enabling more accurate sorting of meat according to export markets. The technique has potential to improve industry workers' jobs and production quality.
A new study by Rice University researchers found that customers who participate in firm-sponsored surveys after a service experience may delay their next purchase. However, the study also found that these surveys can have net positive effects on customer behavior over time.
A special issue of Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology examines innovative ICT applications for energy efficiency, smart irrigation, and carbon reduction. The research assesses the environmental impacts of ICT and entertainment sectors, estimating their net environmental impact and potential for reducing carbon emissions.
Research finds that mandatory limits on processed food salt content could reduce cardiovascular disease by 18% compared to voluntary curbs. Voluntary industry restrictions are cost-effective but would only cut ill health from cardiovascular disease by 1%.
The University of Houston is developing new technologies for the alternative energy industry with a $1.2 million grant from the Office of Naval Research. Researchers will focus on improving thin-film solar cell efficiency and developing nanosensors for wind turbine blades to monitor structural health.
Researchers developed a non-intrusive load monitoring system to track electricity consumption in single-family homes, providing households with a more accurate picture of their energy usage. The system uses machine-learning algorithms to identify appliances and reduce energy waste, potentially leading to cheaper bills and greener homes.
A study published in Academic Medicine found that NIH's stricter ethics rules have reduced industrial relationships without affecting research productivity. However, respondents reported both positive and negative effects of the conflict-of-interest policies, with many feeling the rules are too restrictive and impeding the NIH's scient...
The USDA has awarded $3.8 million to Virginia Tech to improve grape and wine quality in the eastern US through research-based practices. The project aims to create a robust and sustainable industry by integrating research with market drivers, focusing on challenges such as unpredictable weather and high production costs.
Researchers have discovered that eggshell membranes can absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, with one study showing absorption of up to seven times the membrane's own weight. This finding presents a promising approach for mitigating climate change by utilizing waste eggshells as a carbon capture material.
A team of scientists at Alcatel-Lucent Bell Labs has found that energy efficiency gains in communications equipment are not keeping pace with traffic growth, leading to increased power consumption. The study predicts a seven-fold increase in power per user over the next decade.
A new handheld device measures corrosion on machine parts using a simple, quick and cheap method. This enables the degree of corrosion to be easily measured, improving the manufacturing sector by preventing wear and tear.
A new report highlights the severe impact of spinal fractures, which can lead to stooped back, acute and chronic back pain, loss of height, and premature death. The IOF calls on health professionals to recognize signs of these fractures in their patients.
The USDA is spotlighting the success of ChoiceBatter, a low-oil-uptake batter made from rice flour, developed through its Agricultural Technology Innovation Partnership program. The product has shown significant economic impact in five states and has enabled CrispTek to commercially develop and sell the rice batter.
A new report highlights the severe impact of spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis, with millions at risk of further fractures and long-term disability. Experts call for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent devastating consequences.
Researchers investigate a massive salt industry in Belize's Paynes Creek National Park and its submergence by sea-level rise. They aim to reconstruct the ancient landscape and explore possible inland supply routes for the Maya civilization.
Iowa State University researchers estimate a new fisheries system will reduce fishing costs by up to $22 million annually. The system uses tradable permits to control catch amounts, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency in the fishing industry.
The Water Tunnel of the Americas (WTAPC) will be the largest and most advanced facility, enabling researchers to test models of structures and determine forces of extreme weather on buildings and structures. The 'green' project uses a blow-down water tunnel design generating power from the Panama Canal.
A new study by the American Society for Horticultural Science warns of a devastating impact on Florida's $54 million avocado industry due to invasive diseases. The potential loss could range from $183 million to $356 million, highlighting the need for urgent action.
The Webinos project aims to create a universal application platform for cross-platform use of services and technologies across mobile, PC, TV, and in-car devices. The consortium is developing an open source platform and software components that will enable industry-wide collaboration and eliminate economic barriers.
A Mayo Clinic study of 4,400 medical students reveals that burnout is widespread and associated with dishonest behavior in patient care. Burned-out students were less likely to hold altruistic attitudes towards their role in society.
Dr. Bogdan Strimbu, a Louisiana Tech University professor, organized a technical session at the IUFRO's XXIII World Congress in Seoul, South Korea. The session focused on the significance of mixed species forest ecosystems in social, economic and environmental areas.
The Neurophotonics Research Center aims to develop a two-way fiber optic communication link between prosthetic limbs and peripheral nerves, enabling realistic movement and 'feeling' sensations. Successful completion will allow for revolutionary freedom of movement and agility for amputees.
A validated new model can predict postmenopausal osteoporosis incidence and prevalence in different national settings, providing a powerful tool for health policy decision making. The model was developed using Swedish data and showed a 5% margin of error compared to published data.
Researchers have developed a new device that can eliminate phase noise and cross talk in optical communication networks, enabling improved data transmission. The device uses phase sensitive amplification and regeneration to restore signal quality, allowing for increased network capacity and reduced energy consumption.
Researchers have identified mechanisms allowing a common soil bacterium to recover precious metals from industrial waste. The discovery of 'BioPd' has great potential for generating clean energy and cleaning pollutants.
The Virtual Mission Operations Center (VMOC) enables approved users to request satellite services instantly, prioritized based on operational intent. The system reduces the need for a 'man in the loop', improving satellite utilization and command speed.
A University of Alberta study finds that inorganic elements toxic at low concentrations are being discharged into the air and water by oilsands mining and processing. The research reveals that pollutant concentrations were highest near industry sites, contradicting claims of natural sources.
University of Houston chemists Rigoberto Advincula and Mamie Moy received ACS Fellowships, recognizing their outstanding contributions to science and the chemistry profession. Their research focuses on polymer and nanomaterials, with potential applications in chemical sensors, energy transfer, and more.
Researchers found that white population shifted from central city to outer ring suburbs, but minority representation was relatively flat across suburban rings. The study suggests a radial pattern of minority movement out from the central city rather than filling in inner suburbs.
A recent study found Texas petrochemical emissions are down, but still significantly underreported. Researchers took airplane measurements to compare with industry inventories and found discrepancies in pollutant levels. The findings highlight the need for improved monitoring and regulation.
A Penn State study found that home health aides who received training had lower injury rates and higher job satisfaction. Training also reduced turnover intentions, benefiting both employees and organizations. Employees' perceptions of their training and workplace played a crucial role in their risk of injury.
The American Ceramic Society has announced two new Distinguished Life Members, L. David Pye and Louis J. Trostel Jr., who have made significant contributions to the field of ceramic and glass materials. The organization also elevated 19 new members to Fellow status, recognizing their expertise in academia, research labs, industry, and ...
USDA scientists create a new sustainable potting medium called WholeTree, made from thinned pine trees. The material can replace costly and time-consuming materials like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
HokieSpeed is expected to deliver 35 times better peak performance and 70 times better power efficiency than System X, Virginia Tech's previous supercomputer. The instrument will enable researchers to perform in-situ visualization for rapid data analysis, making complex problems tractable.
New research reveals that reforestation of damaged rainforests captures more carbon than softwood monoculture plantations. Restoration projects store significantly more carbon in above-ground biomass compared to monoculture and mixed-species plantations.
A meta-analysis of social relationships and mortality risk found that individuals with adequate social connections have a 50% greater likelihood of survival. The study's results suggest that reducing mortality through enhancing social relationship factors may be a major opportunity to improve both survival and quality of life.
A research team from UNC Charlotte and Y-12 National Security Complex developed a method to eliminate long, dangerous strips of metal (chips) in machining ductile materials. The 'Modulated Tool-Path (MTP) Chip Breaking System' produces user-selectable chip lengths and workpiece finishes, preventing injuries and reducing costs.
The new ARC Center of Excellence in Plant Cell Wall Biology will enhance biotechnologies for crop industries, associated food industries, and renewable transport fuels. The center will be led by the University of Adelaide and involves collaboration with international partners to develop new technologies and processes.
The adoption of digital patient records, increased regulation, and provider consolidation highlight the need for better information security in healthcare. Patient concerns about sharing medical information online are common, with a recent survey showing three-quarters of patients worried about health websites breaching their privacy.
Researchers identify parietal cortex as key brain region combining touch and limb position to create 'body map' of space. The discovery has implications for understanding developmental coordination disorders and improving motor skills.
The new partnership aims to address the need for smart alternative energy sources and prepare students for the emerging industry. The Smart Grid Research Center will focus on developing reliable, affordable, secure, clean, and efficient energy systems.