News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A research partnership between RIT and Monroe County assesses the performance of E85 flex-fuel vehicles, analyzing their environmental and economic benefits. The study aims to reduce fossil fuel reliance and costs to taxpayers while promoting alternative energy implementation in public vehicle fleets.
A Kansas State University researcher has created a way to make fiber-enriched flour that tastes like regular flour, enabling the production of healthier snacking alternatives. The process uses extrusion processing to add varying levels of bran, resulting in improved dough quality and increased soluble dietary fiber.
Himanshu Jain's work on 'jellyfish fluctuations' in super-cold glass has been recognized with the Otto Schott Research Award. His theory proposes that a group of atoms wiggles like a jellyfish, generating electrical conductivity and having important applications in devices like cell phones and satellites.
Researchers have identified Interleukin-12 (IL-12) as a vital molecule for resistance to food allergy. By delivering an allergen in the presence of IL-12, allergic reactions could be brought under control, potentially providing a new treatment option.
The University of Georgia has received a $20 million funding from the Department of Energy for its role in the Bioenergy Science Center. The center aims to reduce plant cell wall resistance and develop consolidated bioprocessing methods to convert biomass into biofuels.
The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center aims to develop cellulosic ethanol and other biofuels, creating momentum for a green future in renewable resources. The center will focus on breeding new varieties of bioenergy plants, developing processing techniques, and improving microbial processes.
The Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) will focus on biofuels derived from plant matter, with UC Davis' expertise in deciphering plant cell walls and microbes. The $125 million center aims to achieve measurable success within five years by tackling scientific problems hindering cost-effective conversion.
The University of Georgia is partnering with Mexican universities to develop innovative technologies for generating biofuels from agricultural waste. This initiative aims to support rural economic development and environmental sustainability by providing training, internships, and exchanges between UGA and Mexican academics and profess...
A special issue of Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology explores the global impact of cities, showcasing their role in driving environmental changes. The study reveals that cities produce greenhouse gases with worldwide effects and stimulate resource extraction beyond city borders.
The research provides the first synoptic view of industrial logging in Central Africa, enabling conservation agencies and governments to better gauge its impact on forests and their inhabitants. The expansion of logging poses a significant threat to biodiversity and climatic change.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method to compact carbon nanotubes into dense bundles, which could outperform copper as an electrical conductor. The process boosts the density of these bundles by five to 25 times and is expected to play a critical role in the development of 3-D computer chips.
The QUT microgravity tower will enable scientists to study diverse phenomena in reduced-gravity environments, including nanomaterials and combustion. This facility will be one of only a few in the world and provide an attractive alternative to costly space testing methods.
A study by Prashant Malaviya reveals that ad repetition can improve product evaluation through item-specific and relational elaboration. However, expertise-related consumers may perform relational elaboration without repetition, making it less effective for industry-specific trade publications.
A new research center at the University of Cincinnati is uniting biomedical competitors to fund medical technology development. The Minimally Invasive Medical Technologies Center (MIMTeC) will focus on translational research that enables U.S. companies to bring next-generation minimally invasive technologies to market.
A new report by former EPA assistant administrator J. Clarence Davies calls for immediate action to address the challenges of nanotechnology. The report recommends over 25 steps to improve oversight of nanotechnology, including launching a voluntary program to collect risk information and setting up an interagency regulatory coordinati...
A cooperative research program between fishermen, scientists, and industry has successfully reduced halibut bycatch in the Gulf of Alaska trawl fishery by 52%. The modified excluder device, designed to slow water flow through the net, shows promise in reducing losses of larger cod.
A RAND Corporation study finds that women-owned small businesses are underrepresented in more than half of industry categories when measured by total contract awards. However, their representation is not significant when measured by dollar value of contracts awarded.
A study found that virtually all practicing physicians in the US have relationships with pharmaceutical manufacturers, often through food or prescription samples. The extent and nature of these relationships vary by practice type, specialty, and patient mix.
The UCLA Mathematics Department has been recognized by the American Mathematical Society for its outstanding program in mathematics education, with a focus on undergraduate and graduate training programs, precollege mathematics education, and research initiatives.
Researchers at CSIRO have found the genetic mutations that occurred thousands of years ago to give us white grapes. They discovered two genes involved in grape color that were mutated in white varieties, leading to over 3000 different white grape cultivars.
Researchers from UNC and Dana Farber Cancer Institute found that industry-funded breast cancer trials are more likely to have positive outcomes compared to non-pharmaceutical funded studies. The study also revealed significant differences in clinical trial design and outcome between industry-supported and non-industry studies.
The Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation (MCAF) presents its cooperative research programs at the AAAS conference, focusing on improving fishery sustainability. The initiatives include reducing seabird mortality by over 80% and developing excluder devices to minimize bycatch.
Researchers, led by Kristy Tiampo, are working on a new approach to earthquake forecasting that can provide 10-year forecasts for several countries. They aim to pinpoint locations with high earthquake risk and inform government spending and preparations.
The International Research Network, ECSAW, aims to improve air quality and water treatment by reducing NOx emissions and developing new fuels for fuel cells. The four-year collaboration will also focus on decontaminating air and water using photocatalysis and green chemistry.
Researchers develop a set of 13 leading indicators to predict complex system performance, helping managers make real-time adjustments. The indicators cover various aspects of system management, including risk handling, interface trends, and technology maturity.
A team of researchers at Delft University of Technology used HREM to observe collective transport of gold atoms in a thin layer. The findings demonstrate a rapid progress in real-time nano-microscopy, enabling the precise positioning of atoms with accuracy.
Researchers have identified two ancient genes, Nax1 and Nax2, that enable salt tolerance in wheat by excluding salt from roots and leaves. The discovery paves the way for developing more resilient crop varieties to stabilize soil and provide income for farmers affected by salinity.
The Commonwealth Fund Health Care Opinion Leaders survey found that expanding coverage for the uninsured (88%) and moderating rising healthcare costs (81%) are top priorities. Experts also suggest increasing recommended care levels and reducing inappropriate services to achieve a high-performance healthcare system.
The partnership aims to reduce fossil fuel power plant water withdrawal and consumption, leading to more efficient use of water and energy. Advanced technologies will be developed to minimize environmental impacts and lower treatment costs.
A survey of IRB members found that over one-third have financial relationships with commercial firms, which could compromise the review process. The study highlights the need for clearer policies and more oversight to address these conflicts of interest.
The EPRI and Argonne analysis will evaluate PHEVs, hybrids, and conventional vehicles from environmental, cost, design, and marketing perspectives. The research project aims to provide a balanced study of the advantages and challenges of PHEV design and commercial production.
The University of Manchester won a $500,000 prize for its innovative approach to knowledge transfer and collaboration with industry. The university's Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences was awarded the grant to support concept studies, short projects, and an incubator scheme for companies.
Researchers from Delft University of Technology successfully measured transport through a single atom in a transistor, offering insights into the behaviour of dopant atoms in silicon. The individual behaviour of dopant atoms is a stumbling block to further miniaturisation of electronics.
Rice University chemists have successfully created and grown carbon nanotube seeds, which can be used to produce large quantities of pure nanotubes. The breakthrough offers significant potential for various materials applications, including energy storage and electronics.
A recent paper identifies Five Grand Challenges for research on nanotechnology risk to meet the full potential of the technology. The challenges include developing a universal aerosol sampler, assessing fiber-shaped nanoparticles' health hazards, and engineering safe-by-design nanomaterials.
A comprehensive survey of nanotechnology workplace safety practices found that many companies and laboratories are using conventional EHS practices despite the potential for nanoparticles to pose specific environmental and health risks. The survey, conducted by Rice University's International Council on Nanotechnology, collected data f...
Dr. Andrew Z. Fire's article in November MCP explores the development of an assay to observe protein interactions in vivo, confirming previously documented interactions and discovering new ones in C. elegans. The study also identifies key associations between RNA interference and nonsense mediated decay pathways.
A review study identifies 202 industrial chemicals that can damage the developing brain, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. The researchers urge a precautionary approach for chemical testing and control to protect children's brains from toxic effects.
A special issue of Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology highlights the most impactful products on the environment, with 70-80% of damage attributed to automobiles, air transport, food, and energy use. The research informs environmental improvement programs and policy decisions globally.
The International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON) has reviewed existing efforts to develop best practices for handling nanomaterials in the workplace. The Phase 1 report highlights the need for better information on industry practices, with some documents not publicly available.
Scientists developed a DNA chip to monitor Atlantic salmon health and performance, identifying genes that influence key traits such as disease resistance, oil production, and growth efficiency. The chip will help farmers assess stock accuracy and conservationists sample wild populations.
Researchers at Ohio University have created an effective interface between a semiconductor and ferromagnetic metal, nearly eliminating intermixing of the two layers. The new magnetic-semiconductor bilayer operates at room temperature, solving a long-standing problem in spintronics technology.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed stronger and less expensive wood-plastic composites that can use inexpensive plastics found in old carpet fibers. These new products have the potential to capture 20% of the decking market by 2010, reducing waste disposal concerns.
Scientists at Lehigh University are studying single-walled CNTs wrapped with single-stranded DNA to improve sorting and placement. The DNA-CNT hybrid has proven effective in dispersion and holds promise for aiding in the critical task of placing tubes on substrates.
A UK case control study found that living near heavy industry sites for over 25 years increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Women living in areas with high rates of poverty and industrial activity were more likely to develop the disease.
The Academy of Finland is funding 12 research consortia and three individual projects to develop new eco-efficiency indicators and model an eco-efficient biorefinery. The goal is to create a more sustainable future through the recycling of raw materials, waste reduction, and innovative production methods.
The CSIRO has signed a three-way coal research and development Joint Statement with Japan Coal Energy Centre (JCOAL) and Australian Coal Research Ltd (ACARP). The agreement aims to improve coal production technology, mine safety and coal utilization. This collaboration will enhance the capabilities of both countries in these areas.
Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of Koi herpesvirus in controlling Australian carp populations. The virus has shown promise in overseas studies and could provide an alternative to existing pest control methods.
The article highlights the importance of reliable estimates of global demand for an HIV vaccine in achieving various policy objectives. These objectives include convincing governments and industry to invest more in research and product development, guiding government planning of HIV vaccination programs.
A study found that managers in the UK food industry prioritize consumer concerns about food safety and hygiene risks over rules and regulations. The survey of 204 individuals across various businesses revealed a high degree of confusion about state regulators and their roles, with locally-based environmental health officers perceived a...
Researchers are investigating whether a pint of English cider can provide health benefits similar to apples, thanks to its high levels of phenolics. A three-year study is underway to analyze how humans absorb these compounds and explore ways to adapt production methods to maintain high phenolic levels.
A Rutgers research team has been awarded a three-year, $599,436 National Science Foundation grant to collaborate with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on improving port competitiveness. The project aims to develop tools for analytical group decision-making and improve security at the nation's ports.
Researchers at Queen's University have devised a novel approach to creating emulsions, which can be used for various industrial applications such as cleaning up oil spills and extracting oil deposits from tar sands. The new 'green chemistry' solution uses a reversible surfactant that can be activated by carbon dioxide or air, allowing ...
The new $4 million collaboration will develop a cybernose using sensor proteins from insects and nematodes, allowing for more accurate smell detection in the wine industry. The technology has potential to detect pests and diseases, boosting Australia's biosecurity.
Dr. Frank M. Richter is recognized for his contributions to solving geologic problems through physics and chemistry applications. His work on mantle dynamics, thermal evolution of Earth, and fluid dynamics has defined the state-of-the-art in the field.
Researchers have successfully boosted the vitamin C levels in blackcurrants by altering starch deposits, which could lead to more nutritious fruit with improved taste. The study, funded by £1.2M, aims to accelerate the breeding of super blackcurrant bushes with enhanced health benefits.
Dr. Michael J. Shelley received the SIAM's Julian Cole Lectureship for his work on mathematical modeling and scientific computation in fluid dynamics and other fields. His research focuses on flow-body interactions, complex fluids, and visual perception using modeling and simulation.
Dr. Peter Kloeden received the 2006 prize for his fundamental contributions to the theoretical and computational analysis of differential equations. He made significant advancements in random attractors and the preservation of synchronization in the presence of noise.
UCLA's Xinwei Yu received the DiPrima prize for his dissertation on 3D incompressible Euler flows and related equations, demonstrating new necessary conditions for blowup of solutions. The prize recognizes Yu's outstanding research in applied mathematics and acknowledges his work as a young scientist.
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics awarded the George Polya Prize to Gregory F. Lawler, Oded Schramm and Wendelin Werner for their groundbreaking work on stochastic Loewner evolution (SLE). Their research established the existence and conformal invariance of critical scaling limits of several 2D lattice models.