News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
The University of Leeds team has secured a £2 million grant to study the changes in behavior and properties of nano-scale systems within the terahertz region. By examining these systems with terahertz radiation, the researchers aim to develop new nano-scale electronic devices for sensing, imaging, and spectroscopy applications.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded up to $3 million in funding to four industry teams as part of its Therapeutics Development Initiative, focusing on treatments targeting alpha-synuclein toxicity, chronic inflammation, trophic factors, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The grants aim to accelerate the development and delivery of tr...
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine developed an AMD animal model using oxidative chemicals, which closely represents the disease in people. This breakthrough could lead to better treatments and potentially a cure for age-related macular degeneration, affecting millions of Americans.
Researchers at Frankfurt's Research Center for Neurotechnology have developed new artificial vision systems using neural organization principles. These systems aim to combine individual functions to form a functioning whole, leading to potential applications in intelligent security and autonomous vehicles.
Since the Soviet collapse, Russian women's smoking rates have more than doubled, with men's rates also increasing. The researchers blame privatization of the tobacco industry and industry lobbying for this alarming trend. The study used data from over 7,000 individuals, showing that the least educated are disproportionately affected.
Carbon nanotubes have shown significant advantages in high-speed analog electronics, and researchers built the world's first all-nanotube transistor radios to prove it. The radios demonstrate the growth technique's success and pave the way for practical implementation of carbon-nanotube materials.
The FIBER e-journal aims to assist the fashion and apparel industry in learning about emerging world markets and sharing best practices for working internationally. The journal highlights critical apparel production centers and emerging markets, including Guatemala, China, India, Thailand, and Italy.
The MIT Energy Initiative has partnered with ABB to develop green technologies and improve energy efficiency. The five-year, $5-million partnership will support research in areas like nanofluids, power electronics, and intelligent robotics.
Researchers at Princeton University found a highly simplified model molecule that behaves in much the same way as water, challenging conventional wisdom. The discovery may have implications for industrial or pharmaceutical research.
The Advanced Energy Consortium aims to improve oil and gas production by developing intelligent subsurface micro and nanosensors. The technology will help characterize reservoirs in three dimensions, increasing recovery rates of existing and new hydrocarbon resources.
Researchers found Celecoxib reduces heart rate and increases irregularities, but not through COX-2 inhibition. Drosophila model reveals a direct effect on potassium channels generating heartbeat.
The Rutgers University Wireless Information Networking Laboratory has established a unique facility for testing new mobile computing and communications technologies. The ORBIT Open Access Radio Grid Testbed features a 400-node programmable radio transceiver emulation laboratory and an outdoor field trial system.
New research in Journal of Consumer Research reveals a significant difference between how men and women view stories about protagonists who overcome challenges. Men enjoyed stories more when they were specifically told that they are fictionalized, allowing them to relax emotion norms and become more involved in the story.
The US ranks last among 19 industrialized countries on preventable deaths, with a 4% decline compared to an average of 16% for other nations. If the US had performed as well as top performers France, Japan, and Australia, there would have been 101,000 fewer deaths annually.
A new study by the Commonwealth Fund found that the US ranks last among 19 industrialized countries in preventable deaths. If the US had performed as well as France, Japan, and Australia, there would have been 101,000 fewer deaths annually by the end of the study period.
A RAND Corporation report finds that the financial services industry has become increasingly complex, with broker-dealers and investment advisers becoming more inter-related and difficult to distinguish for individual investors. The study suggests that this complexity is due in part to the blurring of boundaries between these two types...
The National Nanotechnology Initiative has released a new strategic plan aimed at achieving growing economic benefits and improved quality of life for US citizens. The plan reflects the consensus of participating agencies and provides guidance for investments and activities in nanotechnology R&D.
A new analysis found that US drug companies spent $57.5 billion on promotional activities in 2004, compared to $31.5 billion on industrial pharmaceutical research and development. The study confirms the public image of a marketing-driven industry and argues for transforming the industry towards more research and less promotion.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that poultry workers in the US are 32 times more likely to carry gentamicin-resistant E. coli bacteria than others outside the industry. The study highlights the importance of non-hospital environments in the origin of drug-resistant infections.
A recent study assesses global brain-computer interface (BCI) research, finding that BCI technologies are rapidly growing and approaching first-generation medical practice. The report predicts significant influence on the medical device industry and accelerated growth in non-medical arenas, including gaming and robotics.
Researchers found that high sugar consumption led to obesity, insulin resistance, and cognitive decline in mice. The study highlights the potential link between sugary drinks and Alzheimer's disease, a finding that could have significant implications for human health.
A new study published in the International Journal of Climatology found that urban snow conditions significantly impact skier activity in New England. Researchers discovered that attendees are more likely to visit ski areas based on Boston weather patterns rather than local conditions.
A recent study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry potential. With a 92% chance of profit margin, farmers can expect positive returns on investment, leading to increased production and job creation.
Citrus growers in eastern Australia can now export to Japan with greater market flexibility thanks to the development of cold storage regimes effective against fruit fly. The new method kills Queensland Fruit Fly in citrus stored for 14-16 days at temperatures of 2° or 3°C, reducing damage and improving fruit quality.
The Peking-Yale Joint Center will receive continued and expanded support from Monsanto, enabling graduate student exchanges and plant biology-related programs. The center aims to improve crop production by advancing understanding of plant biology.
Researchers at MIT have developed an electronic nose that can detect hazardous gases like carbon monoxide and explosives using a novel inkjet printing method. The sensor, which consists of thin layers of hollow spheres made of barium carbonate, has the potential to be mass-produced for widespread use.
Researchers have identified 20 major European carp breeding hot spots in Australia's Murray Darling Basin, which could be targeted for control measures to reduce carp numbers in regional waterways. The study found that heavy rain and floods enable the carp to disperse their larvae, supporting the larval drift theory.
CSIRO launches 'Terabyte Science' program to tackle massive data sets in astronomy, gene sequencing, and climate modeling. The initiative aims to develop new mathematical approaches and processes for scientists to stay competitive globally.
A new crop simulation model can predict the timing, quality, and weight of sweet corn crops, addressing seasonal production limitations and perishability issues. The model has significant promise for improving sweet corn production, with potential applications for producers, technical consultants, and the agricultural industry.
Scientists question mandatory folic acid fortification in flour, citing risks of unmetabolised folic acid entering the bloodstream and causing problems for people with certain medical conditions. The study suggests that even low doses of folic acid could lead to overconsumption and health issues.
Arizona State University has partnered with BP and Science Foundation Arizona to develop a renewable source of biofuel using photosynthetic bacteria. This project aims to produce sustainable high-energy fuel that can be used in conventional engines, reducing our transportation economy's dependency on oil.
Yi Hua Ma, a Worcester Polytechnic Institute professor, is honored for his research on hydrogen separation using ultra-thin palladium membranes. His work has reduced the cost of generating hydrogen pure enough to power fuel cells.
The upgraded system increases computing power by a factor of five, enabling researchers to explore complex systems at unprecedented scale and speed. With this boost, Argonne's leadership in petascale computing is solidified, paving the way for breakthroughs in materials research, medicine, and other fields.
The US government is facing criticism for its lack of oversight on nanotechnology products, with expert Andrew Maynard warning of potential risks to the environment, health and workers. Maynard recommends establishing a clear risk research strategy and allocating funding for safety research and oversight.
Researchers found that using 0-8 millimeter pumice in pots higher than 15 centimeters significantly increases yields for gypsophila and cucumber plants. The most balanced and safe type of pumice, the two finest grades, provide optimal moisture retention.
A University of Houston research team has discovered a method to make fuel cells more efficient and less expensive. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of fuel cell-powered vehicles, which are already two to three times more efficient than internal combustion engines.
A study at Mercy Medical Center found that implementing Six Sigma performance improvement practices reduced in-patient mortality, length of stay, and healthcare costs for patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The initiative also improved compliance with Joint Commission Core Measures.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that institutional academic-industry relationships are common and pervasive, affecting departmental activities. Nearly 460 department heads reported having some type of industry relationship, with most involving consulting or intellectual property.
A small-scale Mexican fishery has been found to kill as many critically endangered loggerhead sea turtles as all of the industrial fishing fleets in the North Pacific Ocean. The research led by University of California, Santa Cruz Ph.D. candidate Hoyt Peckham resulted in a voluntary turnaround in the fleet's fishing practices and the d...
A recent analysis suggests that the US hospitality industry can play a crucial role in shaping a 'new Cuba' by investing in the country's tourism infrastructure. By doing so, US companies can help dispel distrust of America among Cubans and promote economic growth.
A national survey of department chairs reveals over half report financial relationships with industry, including receiving support for research equipment and seminars. Clinical departments are more likely to receive industry funding, but many perceive no impact on professional activities.
The Department of Energy has made significant progress in deploying key scientific facilities to capture world scientific leadership. The updated Facilities for the Future of Science: A 20-Year Outlook highlights the agency's commitment to advancing research in fields like fusion energy, advanced computing, and materials science.
Research by NSW DPI has identified the Whitefringed weevil larvae as the culprit behind small holes in leaky irrigation pipes. The larvae can chew through plastic piping using their dark brown pincers, leading to significant yield loss and water waste for lucerne growers.
The University of Leeds is partnering with Dr Tony Marchington's M2 Ventures to offer outsourced research and development in membrane biology to industries. Membrane biology research plays a crucial role in developing pharmaceutical drugs, and the partnership aims to capitalize on this expertise.
Researchers at IBN, IMCB, and GIS successfully developed a miniaturized device to detect the H5N1 virus in less than half an hour, showing promise for pre-emptive surveillance of avian flu epidemics. The device integrates multiple workflows into a single droplet-based system, offering potential advantages over existing tests.
A new method using microwaves can determine the fat content of beef and other meat products, offering a fast and non-invasive alternative to current methods. The technology has potential to reduce waste, save energy, and improve food safety in the industry.
McGill University has been awarded $10.5 million in federal funding to support the work of 12 new and three renewed Canada Research Chairs. The chairs focus on various fields including green chemistry, biochemical pharmacology, international security, and ethnic conflict.
Year-round consumption of fresh leafy greens like lettuce poses challenges due to increased risk of E. coli contamination from field sources. New methods, including harvesting mowers and triple washing, are being used to address this issue.
Argonne has received $21.5 million in cost-shared DOE grants to develop flexible-fuel engines with ionization sensing technology, aiming for 30% higher efficiency and improved fuel economy. The lab will also explore the use of molybdenum disulfide as a lubricant additive to reduce friction and wear in industrial equipment.
University of Houston professor Dmitri Litvinov develops nanomagnetic computing systems that combine logic, memory, and data storage in a single system. This technology has the potential to revolutionize information processing with ultra-high density computing power.
A new analysis has identified cancer-causing compounds, air pollutants, and other substances of concern in the production of carbon nanotubes. Researchers are working with industry partners to develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing methods and filter systems to minimize hazardous by-products.
Researchers used sensors attached to 85 seals to track their movements and collect data about the marine environment. The results show that elephant seals adopted different strategies to find food, visiting colder waters nearer the continental shelf.
Eight scientists and one politician have been recognized by ASBMB for their groundbreaking work, advancing the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. The awards will be presented at Experimental Biology 2008 meeting in San Diego.
Researchers have discovered a new enzyme, UBE1L2, that plays a crucial role in protein degradation and is highly expressed in the testis. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that protein degradation is initiated by only one enzyme, suggesting a more complex process involving two proteins.
A recent study by UCLA researchers found that at least 100 of the 599 documented cigarette additives have pharmacological effects, including enhancing or maintaining nicotine delivery. The study highlights a need for regulation of these additives to address concerns over addictiveness and environmental impact.
Researchers have developed a 3D computer model to analyze the cranial mechanics and bite force of the Great White Shark. The study used high-resolution simulations to estimate the maximum forces that Great Whites can exert, with implications for protecting submarine cables and communication systems.
A recent study found that Latino immigrants working in low-wage jobs report infrequent work-family conflict due to their collective culture's emphasis on work as a means to ensure family well-being. In contrast, women from the same background experience higher levels of conflict due to societal expectations of their caregiving roles.
A large international study found that nurses are more than twice as likely to develop occupational asthma and cleaners face a 71% higher risk. Workplace conditions may be responsible for up to 25% of new asthma cases in industrialized countries.
A University of Delaware-led team achieved a record-breaking combined solar cell efficiency of 42.8 percent from sunlight, surpassing the current record of 40.7 percent. The innovative technology incorporates spectral splitting optics with high-performance crystalline silicon solar cells.
The European Patent Office has launched a patent information service in Russia, providing free access to millions of patent documents and stimulating competition and innovation. Russian researchers can now easily find state-of-the-art information, identify new research challenges, and collaborate with foreign partners.