A compromise in air quality can pose a tremendous risk to public health. Current methods to identify airborne chemicals use time-consuming analysis techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which can take hours or days to deliver results. In emergency situations such as gas leaks or natural disasters, instant identification of airborne chemicals is necessary to identify and mitigate risks.
Using structural DNA nanotechnology, researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) have developed an ultrasensitive method for detecting dengue virus (DENV) in humans — a five-pointed star DNA structure that binds to DENV and fluoresces in its presence.
Breweries often struggle to deal with large volumes of brewer’s spent grain (BSG), the main waste product of barley processed during beermaking. BSG consists predominantly of lignin, which can be difficult to break down. Most of the waste ends up in landfills, where it ultimately decomposes and releases greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide.
More than two billion people are affected by micronutrient deficiency worldwide. Inadequate intake of nutrients such as iron, vitamin A, and vitamin D can increase the risk of anemia, blindness, and cognitive defects.
Transforming a Carbon-Based Economy; DNA Star Sensor Detects Dengue Virus; Combating Micronutrient Deficiency on a Microscopic Scale; Researchers Establish World Record for Converting Heat to Electricity; Converting Beer Waste into Activated Carbon; Platform Rapidly Identifies Harmful Gases; The Toilet: An Unlikely Solution for Reducing Water Waste
January
2020
You would expect that replacing an old piece of equipment with a new, seemingly identical one would result in better performance and higher efficiency. But that is not always the case. When it comes to reboiler tubes, old is sometimes better than new.
January
2020
The skills that make engineers and scientists successful in a technical role are not the same as those required by leadership positions. To be effective leaders, technical experts must expand their skillset to manage time efficiently, communicate clearly, and overcome conflict.
January
2020
Many factors — both work-related and personal — can cause workers to become fatigued, which can contribute to safety incidents. A strategic approach to fatigue-hazard identification and risk mitigation can prevent or reduce adverse outcomes.
January
2020
Working remotely is a growing trend — 70% of workers worldwide perform tasks remotely at least one day a week (1), and approximately 3.5% of the workforce in the U.S. works remotely more than half of the work week (2) . Younger generations’ appeal...
