News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
Researchers confirm that major methane increases near the end of the last Ice Age were due to wetland growth and associated methane releases, not sudden bursts of seafloor methane. The study's findings provide a significant relief as they largely rule out massive seafloor hydrate deposits as a source of methane.
Researchers have discovered that fish can harbour and spread PKD, a debilitating condition causing severe inflammation of the kidneys. The discovery paves the way for effective control measures against the disease, which has devastated the UK's fish farming industry.
A new grant-funded workshop series aims to recruit Ph.D.-level women scientists and engineers from industry into academic positions. Senior academics will provide guidance on job application, interviewing, and start-up negotiations.
Scientists at IBN have successfully converted carbon dioxide into methanol using organocatalysts, a novel approach that offers a low-energy and non-toxic process. This breakthrough has significant implications for the sequestration and conversion of greenhouse gases, providing a viable alternative energy option.
Researchers used mouse models to study Huntington Disease, finding significant protein alterations as early as 2 weeks before symptoms appear. These changes may affect late-stage disease by altering biochemical activity in the brain.
The University of Liverpool has secured funding to create a Knowledge Exploitation Laboratory, accelerating the transfer of research into industry. The lab will facilitate collaboration between academics and industrial partners, exploiting £43 million of EPSRC-funded research in molecular engineering, advanced manufacturing, and sensors.
A team of scientists at Aberystwyth University has created a Robot Scientist named Adam that independently discovered new scientific knowledge about the genomics of baker's yeast. The robot used artificial intelligence to hypothesize, test, and interpret results, demonstrating its potential for automating scientific processes.
A group of influential medical leaders propose curbing conflict of interest by reducing industry funding and eliminating ties. They advocate for a goal of $0 contributions from industry, excepting revenues from journal advertisements and exhibit hall fees.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a single gene responsible for controlling plant growth responses to high temperatures, which could significantly impact crop production as global warming increases. The study found that mutant plants deficient in the regulatory protein PIF4 display reduced growth and biomass.
Dr. Nick Harvey received the 2009 ESCEO-IOF Alliance for Better Bone Health Young Investigator Award for his study on indices of intrauterine growth predicting postnatal development of skeletal size and volumetric density. The award recognizes outstanding research based on fetal growth measurements made between 19 and 34 weeks gestation.
A new study found that many academic institutions lack clear policies covering IRB members' industrial relationships, leading to inconsistent reporting and handling of conflicts. The study suggests that more consistent policies and accountability are needed to ensure the integrity and safety of medical research.
A new anti-microbial catheter has been developed to improve treatment and quality of life for community-based dialysis patients. The catheter has shown the potential to ward off a wider variety of pathogens, protecting CAPD patients from infections for up to 100 days.
Researchers at Fraunhofer-Chalmers and ITWM developed a software program that enables designers to virtually install flexible components in new car models. The tool simulates assembly processes, providing concrete advice on component shape changes and optimal installation paths to minimize damage to the car body.
A new NSF-funded research group will integrate technology from Southern Methodist University, two other North Texas universities, and 11 industry partners to create net-centric solutions. The consortium aims to improve research capabilities in the US by combining academic expertise with high-tech companies.
Scientists have successfully replaced damaged brain tissue in rats with stem cells, filling cavities within 7 days. The new tissue interacts with the host brain and can be gradually replaced by natural processes.
Researchers developed a novel instrument, Multi-Axis Crystal Spectrometer (MACS), to explore promising materials' properties. MACS offers improved sensitivity and range compared to older spectrometers, enabling scientists to analyze small samples in various conditions.
A Kansas State University marketing professor says online shopping will borrow from Second Life, allowing shoppers to interact with virtual avatars and purchase items in a social setting. The future of e-commerce may also involve mobile devices, with research suggesting that gaming and chat features are key to attracting young customers.
The three-year project aims to develop cost-effective, reel-to-reel printable plastic solar cells that can be printed like money. The technology has enormous potential for the solar industry in Australia and could lead to a world-leading Australian industry in printable electronics.
The SAW project, led by Professor Anne Osbourn, combines scientific experimentation with art and creative writing to stimulate creativity and scientific curiosity. The initiative results in a positive view of science among young people, with stunning science images and artwork inspired by the projects.
The national nursery survey report highlights distinct regional variations in nursery production practices and technology adoption. Regional differences were found in areas such as labor usage, integrated pest management, and computerization adoption.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have proven that graphene's edge structure significantly influences its electronic properties. The discovery has major implications for transistor fabrication and requires controlled engineering of the graphene edge structure.
Researchers will analyze the genome of five wheat varieties using new DNA sequencing technology to generate tools for breeders to select key agricultural traits. This project aims to speed up current breeding programs by highlighting natural genetic variation between wheat types.
Drummond Rennie receives AAAS Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award for his efforts to promote integrity in scientific publishing and research. He is recognized for his advocacy on issues such as publication bias, conflicts of interest, and compulsory registration of clinical trials.
A new study at Queensland University of Technology identified the origin and identity of tiny, potentially hazardous particles emitted from common laser printers. The research found that these ultrafine particles form from vapours produced when toner is fused to paper, posing a risk to human health.
The Arctic region is at risk of maritime accidents and oil spills due to limited infrastructure and increasing ship traffic, according to a new report. The report calls for strengthened international cooperation, improved logistical support, and updated weather data to mitigate these risks.
The UK has launched a £27M bioenergy research centre to develop sustainable fuels and reduce carbon emissions. The centre will focus on improving crop yields, changing plant cell walls, and analyzing the economic life cycle of bioenergy sources.
A new, higher-yielding rice plant is being developed through a global consortium of scientists, which aims to increase yields by 50% while reducing fertilizer and water usage. The project has received a $11 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and has the potential to benefit billions of poor people worldwide.
Researchers found that long-chain fats like oleic acid in olive oil increase intestinal absorption of pro-inflammatory lipopolysaccharides (LPS), promoting inflammation. This study suggests a potential link between dietary fat intake and inflammatory bowel disorders.
A new study reveals that a Philip Morris scientist established close connections with the Chulabhorn Research Institute in Thailand, which is designated as a WHO Collaborating Centre. This link raises concerns about the tobacco industry's ability to influence medical research and teaching at an academic institution allied with the WHO.
The partnership aims to explore innovative solutions in transportation using $200,000 annual grants for two years. Researchers from both institutions will work together to achieve commercialization and attract external funding.
Thomas R. Kurfess, Clemson University BMW Endowed Chair, was recognized as a Fellow of the American Association for Advancement of Science for his work on advanced production systems and process control. His research focuses on ensuring vehicle performance through prognostics and diagnostics.
The center is researching ways to reduce carbon emissions from biofuels, develop economic models for industry costs, and assess the impact of land-use changes on greenhouse gas emissions. The center aims to support interdisciplinary research and provide policy-relevant insights for the biobased industry.
Researchers found contaminated offspring with underdeveloped brains, inadequate energy supplies, and dysfunctional livers. The study's findings have implications for human health, as the estuary is a primary water source for California.
Scientists at A*STAR have found imidazolium salts with powerful antioxidant properties that could fight diseases. They also efficiently convert carbohydrates into versatile chemical compounds for biofuel production.
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) has published a brochure on applied mathematics and computational science careers outside of academia. The brochure answers questions about career opportunities and features profiles of professionals at top companies like Google, IBM, and NSA. It aims to increase interest in mat...
A statewide survey of snail and slug invasions in Hawai'i has found 29 alien species, including five previously unreported, with most introduced to Oahu before spreading to other islands. The study highlights the need for greater awareness among nurseries and quarantine officials to prevent further environmental impacts.
Researchers are developing a new high-speed environmentally-friendly packaging process that uses recycled materials and reduces plastic waste. The project aims to cut landfill waste by 13% and save over 39,000 tonnes per year.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing automated farming systems using sensors, autonomous vehicles, and data analysis to monitor tree health and crop status. The systems aim to provide growers with early warnings of diseases and insect infestations, as well as continuous updates on crop status.
Rutgers University has developed a new cranberry hybrid called Crimson Queen, which helps growers increase production and improve fruit quality. The hybrid meets growing year-round demand for juices, fruit drinks, and "craisins", reducing the need for herbicides and pesticides.
Researchers at Ames Laboratory are developing nanocoatings to reduce friction and extend tool life, leading to a 31 trillion BTU annual energy savings by 2030. The coatings have shown exceptional hardness and can be applied to various industrial applications, including pumps and cutting tools.
Researchers from UCLA's California NanoSystems Institute propose a method to produce graphene sheets in large quantities using hydrazine solution. This breakthrough enables the creation of the largest graphene sample reported, with applications in solar cells, sensors, and electronic devices.
T.P. Ma recognized for groundbreaking research in semiconductors, impacting high-tech industry and leading to practical applications such as flash memory. His work has been widely adopted by companies worldwide, including IBM and Intel.
Researchers convert olive stones into bioethanol using low-cost, eco-friendly process. Yields of 5.7kg ethanol per 100kg of olive stones reached in study published in Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology.
Researchers highlight the need for improved efficiency in nanomanufacturing to reduce energy use, emissions, and solid waste. Studies show that nanoscale production can have greater environmental burdens than conventional manufacturing methods.
The University of Illinois is receiving a $2 million NSF grant to develop sustainable biofuels infrastructure. Researchers will examine the engineering, social, environmental and economic constraints of building a sustainably-supporting bio-economy.
Elsevier announces a new partnership with Society of Powder Technology Japan (SPTJ) to publish Advanced Powder Technology, a bimonthly journal covering powder engineering and technology. The internationalization of the journal will expand its reach and contribute high-quality content to ScienceDirect.
New research suggests that the process of manufacturing nanomaterials can offset their environmental benefits, with some studies indicating life-cycle impacts 100 times greater than traditional materials. This challenges the assumption that nanomaterials will lead to reduced energy and resource use.
Researchers in Algeria have discovered that orange peel can effectively remove acidic dyes from industrial effluent, blocking sunlight and harming photosynthesizing plant species. The study found that absorption time depends on dye concentration and temperature, with strong dyes absorbed at up to 70 milligrams per gram of orange peel.
A study found that online gamblers think they're more in control of their behavior compared to casino gamblers, but this is not the case due to a lack of social connections and intense sensations., The researchers believe regulating online gambling could remove its excitement.
A recent Arizona State University study funded by an AT&T Industrial Ecology grant examines the social, economic, and environmental implications of evolving technologies. The research focuses on the shift from physical to virtual activity and its effects on transportation systems, workplaces, and consumer behavior.
Stevens Institute of Technology professor H. Quynh Dinh has been awarded a $50,000 Honda Initiation Grant to develop methods for detecting patterns in vector fields. The grant aims to improve engine design and traffic management through collaborations with researchers in automotive and ocean engineering.
Four Stevens Institute of Technology professors have received the Bright Idea Award for their groundbreaking research papers, with Christine V. Bullen, Ann C. Mooney, Patricia J. Holahan, and Peerasit Patanakul recognized for their work in Information Technology, Project Management, and Conflict Resolution.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a system that allows computer chips to work around all functional bugs, even those not yet detected. The 'semantic guardian' prevents a chip from operating in untested configurations, eliminating the risk of buggy hardware failure and protecting against potential security threats.
The new foam reactor design has a large surface area per reactor volume, increasing production efficiency. It outperforms traditional packed bed designs by 10 times in terms of energy efficiency.
A study by University of Iowa researchers found PCB11, a toxic substance linked to paint pigments, present throughout Chicago air. The compound was detected in 91% of samples collected between 2006 and 2007, raising concerns over human health implications.
Researchers discovered financial contracts between tobacco companies and Hollywood stars, revealing a commercial link between the two industries. The study found that studios controlled their stars' agreements and timed ads to promote specific cigarette brands.
Stevens will evaluate and demonstrate a novel microchannel reactor to reform pyrolysis oil into synthesis gas using reduced energy. The project is one of six university projects awarded by the DOE to develop biomass conversion technologies.
Physics aims to pull outstanding papers from the American Physical Society's peer-reviewed publications, including Physical Review Letters and the Physical Review series. The online publication features Viewpoints, Trends, and Synopses, providing in-depth commentary and summaries of exceptional research.
Two University of Leicester scientists, Dr Duncan Law-Green and Mr David Boyce, are designing microgravity experiments to study regolith on the Moon. The experiments could provide valuable information for future human missions to the Moon in 2020.
A landmark study reports a breakdown in the biotech patent system, citing a fixation on patents and privately-controlled research as a major obstacle to innovation. The authors argue that a more collaborative approach is needed to ensure that new ideas reach those who need them.