News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A Michigan State University study found that high-performing companies are more likely to engage in illegal behavior, such as fraud and environmental violations, due to unrealistic expectations and external pressures. The researchers argue that regulators should monitor both high- and low-performing firms to detect illicit activity.
A study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly investigates how the gender-typing of an industry affects the evaluation of teams led by men and women. The research shows that people have higher expectations for the performance of teams when their leaders' gender is consistent with the industry's gender typing.
Experts suggest replacing industry sponsorship with a dedicated tax modelled on tobacco to fund healthy community activities. They argue that current practices encourage unhealthy drinking among sportspeople and fans, citing a 2008 study's findings.
Researchers from Australia and the UK call for a new approach to sports sponsorship debates, shifting the burden of proof to the alcohol industry. They argue that the industry should show that sponsorship does not cause unhealthy alcohol use among adults or encourage children to drink.
Researchers aim to develop low-cost devices that can monitor building energy consumption and provide suggestions for optimization. The project will use data from various residential buildings, including those operated by non-profits, to inform energy-saving decisions.
Scientists have analyzed the genome structures of bioethanol-producing microorganisms, uncovering genetic clues that will be critical in developing new technologies needed to implement production on a global scale. The studies identified genomic properties of industrial fuel yeasts that likely gave rise to more robust strains.
A recent study found that laser etching does not facilitate decay in laser-labeled grapefruit and can even reduce water loss. The technology provides a safe alternative to adhesive sticker labeling, maintaining high fruit quality during storage.
Fewer investigators report industry connections, but companies still seek out highly productive researchers. Industry-funded scientists were more likely to report trade secrets and delayed publications, yet patenting and trade secrecy rates doubled among those without corporate sponsorship.
Robert Street has been recognized by the American Institute of Physics (AIP) with a $10,000 Prize for Industrial Applications of Physics. He developed flat-panel digital X-ray detectors, which have replaced traditional film X-ray machines in many medical applications.
A new analysis by Oregon State University researchers highlights the scope of the US groundwater crisis, which threatens drinking water for half the world's population. Experts say lessons from the oil industry could help manage this crisis through techniques like unitization and maximizing water value.
A new endowment fund will support ICT research at CSIRO Australia, enhancing the nation's wireless technologies capabilities. The fund will also provide scholarships and fellowships for students across various disciplines, addressing key skills shortages.
Georgia Institute of Technology receives a five-year, $12 million Track 2 award to develop and deploy two heterogeneous HPC systems for various research projects. The project aims to demonstrate unprecedented performance on computational science applications while addressing energy efficiency challenges.
A €4.8 million European research project is using computer modelling and laboratory experiments to develop a predictive, cost-effective tool for welding deep-sea gas and oil transportation systems. The MintWeld consortium aims to save lives and money by understanding the process of weld failures.
A study by Ascensión Riva and colleagues reveals that darker fabric colors offer superior UV absorption, with deep blue shades providing the highest level of protection. This research could lead to more affordable and effective sun-blocking fabrics for consumers.
Researchers will develop a system for conducting climate-impact assessments for international market systems, focusing on the tart-cherry industry. The study aims to provide detailed information for industry stakeholders to plan for future investments.
The UK is launching seven new research projects to combat obesity and heart disease, using a combination of public and private sector funding. Researchers will explore the role of probiotics, polyphenols, and cognition in diet-related health issues.
Researchers developed a simple computer model that can predict specific outcomes for a given bank with minimal data demands. The model uses Locally Weighted Scatter Plot Smooth to identify potentially troubled banks by comparing their performance with similar peers.
The University of Washington's Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory focuses on short-term industry-driven testing of new materials in real-world scenarios like bird strikes, lightning, and crashes. The lab aims to advance carbon fiber composite technologies for high-performance industries.
Kansas State University assistant professor George Cai has received a $225,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to study supply chain management for the travel industry using online retail outlets like Priceline.com. The research aims to help suppliers and retailers determine optimal pricing and revenue management strategies.
The Arthritis Foundation of India Trust has won the prestigious IOF Linda Edwards Memorial Award for its innovative campaigns to raise awareness about osteoporosis. The organization, established in 2002, has been recognized for its efforts to improve bone health and patient care across India.
Biomimetic nanoparticles are degraded by cathepsin L when entering human cells, compromising their potential to deliver therapeutic proteins. Researchers have developed methods to measure nanoparticle location and state, aiding the design of nanodevices that overcome this degradation.
Researchers at NIST developed a new reference material, Beryllium Oxide Powder (SRM 1877), which mimics the form of beryllium to which workers are exposed, enabling more representative toxicological studies and sensitive monitoring. This will facilitate effective clean-up of contaminated areas and aid in contamination control.
A new report reveals that aquaculture accounts for 50% of global fish consumption, driven by demand for omega-3 fatty acids. This strain on marine resources can be mitigated by reducing fish oil in farmed fish diets and developing alternative feedstuffs.
A survey of 3,080 life-science faculty at 50 top-funded universities found that one-third conduct basic science research, while translational researchers are more likely to have industry relationships.
The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has published a policy on managing conflicts of interest to ensure responsible partnerships with industry and promote patient care. The policy provides guidelines for medical societies and industry to advance research and education.
A NIST research team has figured out why a metal-organic framework can safely store acetylene at low pressure, leading to potential substantial savings in transportation costs. The discovery could also help scientists better understand MOFs and develop new materials for storing other substances.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new method to produce lower-cost solar cells using nanoparticle inks that can be printed like newspaper or painted onto surfaces. The goal is to reduce production costs by one-tenth, making solar energy more competitive with fossil fuels.
Researchers found that ads for beer, spirits, and alcopops aired more frequently when more teens were watching, with a 7% increase in each 1-percentage-point increase in adolescent viewership. The study suggests that the alcohol industry's voluntary self-monitoring is not effective in reducing adolescent exposure to ads.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a method to produce up to 30 grams of butanol per liter, doubling the current amount. This breakthrough could pave the way for butanol to replace gasoline in conventional automobiles.
New study reveals the potential of plant essential oils as insecticides, offering a safer and more environmentally friendly option for organic farmers. Researchers have identified several spices, including rosemary, thyme, and clove, that can be used to control agricultural pests.
Researchers found high concentrations of phytoestrogens, hormone-mimicking compounds, in the wastewater discharged from eight industrial sites. Phytoestrogens can be removed through standard treatment, but levels may still harm fish at certain thresholds.
A chemical found in blueberry leaves has shown a strong effect in blocking the replication of the Hepatitis C virus, which affects 200 million people worldwide. The compound, proanthocyanidin, is similar to chemicals found in grapes and wine and is considered safe as a dietary supplement.
Scientists can now drill to the Earth's mantle with reduced environmental impact. The technology allows for investigation of subseafloor areas in great depths, where oceanic crust may be thinner.
A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota has developed a new, energy-efficient method for chemical separations using zeolite membranes. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the energy used in producing biofuels, such as ethanol and butanol, and enable higher production rates.
A US-based research team has assessed potential invasive snail and slug species threatening US agriculture and the environment. The study identifies key pests that could have significant impacts if introduced nationally.
Researchers at the University of Bath are constructing a two-storey BaleHaus made of prefabricated straw bales and hemp cladding panels to test the sustainability of straw houses. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and provide eco-friendly housing options.
Gellman is leading a research team to create solid surfaces that can select between 'left-handed' and 'right-handed' versions of complex molecules, improving efficiency in chemical processes. The goal is to control chemical reactions to yield only the desired product, reducing waste and environmental impact.
A study published in JBC found that mice with defective mitochondrial protein MCLK1 lived longer and aged slower than normal mice. Despite high levels of oxidative stress, their inefficient mitochondria produced less energy and fewer oxygen radicals, accumulating less damage over time.
A study by UFZ researchers found that air pollution caused by industry has more severe effects on children's health than vehicle exhaust fumes. The research revealed that around a quarter to a third of children in industrial areas experience respiratory problems, compared to half as many in suburban and rural areas.
The network, built by 41 organizations, allows for secure transmission of data beyond classical methods using quantum cryptography. The researchers achieved a record-breaking transmission capacity of up to 8 nodes with links ranging from 20 to 83 kilometers.
Anders Lindquist, a Swedish professor at the Royal Institute of Technology, will receive the W.T. and Idalia Reid Prize in Mathematics for his fundamental contributions to stochastic systems theory, signals, and control. The prize is awarded annually by SIAM to recognize outstanding work in differential equations and control theory.
The NCAR-IDB partnership aims to assess climate risks and develop response plans in Latin America and the Caribbean. Trained scientists will predict climate change impacts and help governments develop strategies to protect society.
Two NTU projects win up to S$4 million in research funds for fast and efficient detection of Cryptosporidium in water using genetic analysis and biophotonic chips. The technologies aim to enable prompt implementation of control measures, reducing time and manpower required.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are creating programming tools to enable defense engineers to leverage the processing power of GPUs without requiring specialized knowledge. This development aims to address computational bottlenecks in complex radar and sensor systems.
Researchers from Harvard School of Public Health found that tobacco manufacturers altered cigarette ingredients and design without disclosing these changes to consumers. The study suggests that this lack of transparency contributes to the continued harm caused by tobacco products.
The review article examines various ways nanomaterials interact with biological systems, highlighting the importance of understanding physical and chemical properties for safe use. It presents a roadmap for designing nanoparticle drug-delivery systems with targeted delivery and reducing potential hazardous interactions.
A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers predicts a 10-25% decline in US mollusk sales, worth $75-$187 million annually, and $1.4 billion by 2060. This decline could lead to economic hardships for fishing communities.
New research in Australia shows that alcohol advertising self-regulation is ineffective in protecting children and youth from exposure. The study found that underage teens were exposed to more TV ads than young adults, with popular branding tactics including animated characters and pop music.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has renewed funding for the 11 Regional Centers of Excellence, with a total of $455 million over five years. The centers will focus on developing countermeasures against emerging infectious diseases.
Researchers at Durham University found that rammed earth's strength is heavily dependent on its water content. The study aims to aid the conservation of ancient rammed earth buildings by understanding the source of their strength.
A Mayo Clinic study found that short preoperative team briefings can improve communication and reduce errors in cardiac surgery. The briefings were conducted prior to the first procedure of the day and resulted in a 53% reduction in miscommunication events.
A three-year research partnership aims to improve the characterization of Victoria's sedimentary basins, attracting investment and increasing resource estimates. The project will also enhance understanding of geological carbon dioxide storage and geothermal resources.
Researchers found that engaged workers are not necessarily committed to their organization. Engaged employees require resources to perform well and may leave if they don't receive necessary support. Managers must balance pressure from bosses with motivating and keeping employees engaged.
Researchers test blue-white lamp prototypes to regulate sleep-wake cycles in people with dementia. The study shows promise in raising activity levels during daytime hours and increasing sleep at nighttime.
A new system could use simple icons on TV screens to warn of future phases of a pandemic outbreak. The researchers emphasize the importance of rapid response and early detection in reducing the impact of a pandemic.
A recent study found that nearly one-third of cancer research published in high-impact journals disclosed a conflict of interest, with industry funding being the most frequent type. This suggests that researchers may be biased towards positive findings, and that public funding is necessary to minimize this bias.
A new UCSF study found that negative attitudes towards the tobacco industry are associated with lower rates of smoking among young adults. The study, which surveyed 1,528 people aged 18-25, suggests that anti-tobacco advertising campaigns can be effective in reducing smoking rates by portraying the industry in a negative light.
Physicists at UCLA have created the world's smallest incandescent lamp, utilizing a single carbon nanotube filament that is only 100 atoms wide. The tiny lamp can study black-body radiation and its structure was imaged using an electron microscope with atomic resolution.
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) has named 183 individuals as Fellows for their significant impact on the fields of applied mathematics and computational science. These professionals have made substantial contributions to various areas, including number theory, partial differential equations, and algorithm design.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have made significant contributions to optimization problems, dynamical systems theory, and climate change modeling. The duo was named Fellow by the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) for their work on software development and numerical methods.