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Green subsidies may have hidden costs, experts warn

A group of scientists and economists warn that green subsidies can have negative spillover effects and diminish overall effectiveness if not implemented cautiously. They suggest imposing time limits on subsidies to ensure they do not perpetuate harmful practices over the long term.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 3, 2024

Drivers of electric vehicles are more likely to be at fault in road traffic crashes than drivers of petrol and diesel cars

A comparative study by Lero reveals that electric vehicles have a higher chance of experiencing an at-fault insurance claim, with a 4% increase in crashes compared to internal combustion engines. The research also found that hybrids show no further increased risk, indicating EVs have a higher risk profile.

SourceLero·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Study: Conflicting goals, focus on economic development lead to underperforming streetcar systems

Cities with high-performing streetcar systems prioritize transporting people to desired locations, while those that focus on economic development often experience poor performance. The study highlights the importance of focusing on passenger attraction and coordinated fare policies for successful streetcar systems.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Auto plants grew their workforces after transitioning to electric vehicle production

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that US auto plants producing battery electric vehicles have required a larger workforce than traditional internal combustion engine plants. The study revealed that assembly jobs increased by up to 10 times during the ramp-up stages of transitioning to full-scale EV production, with one p...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

ZJU researchers address oxidation issue of copper by laser writing towards in-situ integrated sensing

Researchers from Zhejiang University have developed a hybrid laser direct writing technique that enables the creation of functional copper interconnects and carbon-based sensors within a single integrated system. The process allows for real-time temperature monitoring over extended periods, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 5, 2024

Children switch to walking and cycling to school after introduction of London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone

A new study found that four in ten children in Central London switched to walking or cycling after the ULEZ was introduced, while only two in ten in Luton made this switch. This shift is linked to reduced air pollution and increased physical activity, with benefits for children's health and development.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2024

Half of Uber, Lyft trips replace more sustainable options

A California study found that over 50% of ride-hailing trips replaced more sustainable forms of transportation or created new vehicle miles, highlighting the need to improve the sustainability of ride-hailing services. The study also identified disparities in trip cancellations among low-income and minority groups.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2024

Pusan National University researchers highlight the carbon-saving potential of compact cities

Researchers at Pusan National University found compact cities reduce consumption-based carbon emissions through efficient public transportation, mixed land use, and pedestrian-friendly communities. This study supports the argument that compact city development is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality.

SourcePusan National University·JournalEnvironment and Planning B Urban Analytics and City Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2024

New car smell reaches toxic levels on hot days

High levels of formaldehyde and aldehydes are emitted from new cars on hot summer days, exceeding national safety limits. A machine learning model has been developed to predict in-cabin concentrations of volatile organic compounds, potentially informing exposure assessments and intelligent car systems.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 23, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Trust, more than knowledge, critical for acceptance of fully autonomous vehicles

A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that trust in autonomous vehicles' reliability and performance plays a crucial role in improving perceptions of the technology's risk. Knowledge alone is insufficient to sway people's attitudes toward complex technology like autonomous vehicles.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Risk Research·DateJul 9, 2024

True scale of carbon impact from long-distance travel revealed

Long-distance travel has a substantial carbon footprint, with journeys over 50 miles accounting for 70% of emissions. Research suggests targeting long-distance travel may be more effective than current efforts to reduce emissions. Changing behavior and policy can maximize reductions in carbon emissions from passenger travel.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 2, 2024

Invasive ants spread by hitchhiking on everyday vehicles

Researchers found that ants need three main things to succeed when hitchhiking: climbing ability, foraging/colonizing behaviors, and temperature tolerance. The study tracked the spread of invasive ants through non-commercial transport on personal vehicles, highlighting a significant threat to native species.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Entomology·DateJun 27, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Wealthy Kiwis driving up transport emissions, study finds

A study found that people in affluent areas in New Zealand were contributing more than their fair share of greenhouse gas emissions from transport. They drove further and owned more cars, leading to higher emissions per week.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalTravel Behaviour and Society·TypeSurvey·DateJun 12, 2024

Study reveals high rate of drowsy driving by teens

A new study by the National Sleep Foundation finds that approximately one in six adolescent drivers have driven drowsy, leading to 1.7 million reported incidents and over 400,000 teens driving drowsy at least once a week. The majority of teens pointed to work or school schedules as factors preventing them from getting sufficient sleep.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·TypeSurvey·DateJun 4, 2024

Improving the safety and reliability of self-driving cars

Researchers aim to assess the reliability and robustness of perception modules in autonomous driving systems (ADSs), which are critical for safe operation. The project seeks to develop new technologies that can detect perception errors and mitigate their impact on other modules, ultimately enhancing the overall system.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateMay 31, 2024

Navigating the future of secure and efficient intelligent transportation systems using AI and blockchain

Researchers investigate traditional encryption limitations in practical communication scenarios, exploring the effectiveness of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) and Blockchain technology in autonomous vehicles. DRL and Blockchain integration improves performance, lowers training costs, and creates secure, globally accessible transport...

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Transportation Journal·DateMay 22, 2024

A new Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China study unveils strategy for improving mechanical properties of aluminum composites

A new study from China reveals a novel strategy for enhancing the strength-ductility synergy of particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composites. The approach involves regulating the heterostructure of the matrix grain and particle distribution to achieve a balance between strength and ductility.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Study: You’re breathing potential carcinogens inside your car

A new study found that cars release harmful flame retardants into the air, posing a significant public health risk. The researchers detected these chemicals in 101 cars, including suspected carcinogens like tris (1-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate, and linked warmer weather to higher concentrations.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 7, 2024

This highly reflective black paint makes objects more visible to autonomous cars

Researchers developed a highly reflective black paint that improves detection of dark objects by lidar sensors in self-driving cars. The new paint, made with titanium dioxide, was tested on two types of lidar sensors and showed improved performance compared to traditional carbon-based paints.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 2, 2024

Under examination: Buckling – when structures suddenly collapse

Researchers have developed a theoretical equation to predict the average buckling strength of shells with geometric imperfections. The model, which considers shapes and distribution of imperfections, offers promise for creating lightweight and sustainable structures while ensuring structural reliability.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2024

Cars as particles

A mathematical model developed by Alexandre Solon and Eric Bertin describes the movement of particles in situations similar to cars on a road or bacteria attracted to a nutrient source. The model identifies conditions that favor traffic jams, including high vehicle density and driver inertia.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Retention ponds can deliver a substantial reduction in tire particle pollution, study suggests

A new study reveals that retention ponds and wetlands can significantly reduce the amount of tyre particles entering aquatic environments, with an average reduction of 75%. The research found that tyre wear particles outweigh other forms of microplastics, but are also removed in greater quantities.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2024

Has remote work changed how people travel in the U.S?

A new study finds that remote work has changed urban transportation patterns in the U.S., with significant variation across regions. The research reveals that remote work has reduced vehicle miles driven by about 1% per 1% decrease in onsite workers, but had a more substantial impact on mass-transit ridership.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Cities·DateApr 9, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

One-third of ride-share drivers have had a crash on the job, survey finds

A new study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that one-third of ride-share drivers have been involved in a crash while working. The survey revealed that drivers are uniquely susceptible to crashes caused by cellphone use, tiredness, and driving on unfamiliar roads.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Safety Research·DateApr 4, 2024

Over half of global commutes are by car, says study

According to a new study, around 51% of global commutes are made by car, varying greatly across regions. In contrast, cities like Copenhagen, Paris, and Utrecht rely heavily on cycling and public transportation. The US also shows minimal variation in modal share across cities, with nearly 92% of commutes made by car.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalEnvironment International·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 18, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Women involved in car crashes may be more likely to go into shock than men

Researchers analyzed trauma injury data from over 56,000 car crash victims and found that women have a higher shock index, indicating a greater risk of hemorrhagic shock. This suggests that female bodies may handle blood loss differently than male bodies, warranting further investigation into car safety design and first aid response.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 15, 2024

New traffic signal would improve travel time for both pedestrians and vehicles

A new traffic signal concept, known as the 'white phase,' uses autonomous vehicles to expedite traffic flow at intersections. The concept has been shown to improve travel time for both pedestrians and vehicles, especially when autonomous vehicles make up a higher percentage of traffic.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalComputer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 12, 2024

Study shows UK offshores emissions through used vehicle exports

A UK study using mandatory annual vehicle inspections found exported used vehicles generated at least 13-53% more carbon dioxide per mile than those on British roads or in scrap yards. The researchers called for the UK's world-leading vehicle emissions standards to be applied to all exported vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

WVU researcher determines ADHD gives entrepreneurs an edge

A study by WVU researcher Nancy McIntyre reveals that individuals with ADHD tend to use routines and patterns to store stimuli from their environment, allowing them to make connections and file away resources for future use. This helps entrepreneurs with ADHD excel in qualities such as alertness, adaptability, and entrepreneurial intent.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalInternational Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour & Research·DateFeb 6, 2024

Engineers develop hack to make automotive radar hallucinate

Researchers at Duke University create a system called MadRadar that can trick automotive radar sensors into believing anything is possible without prior knowledge. The technology can hide existing cars, create phantom vehicles, or make it seem like an actual car has changed course.

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2024

Car accidents, accidental overdoses account for majority of accidental deaths among U.S. soldiers deployed in Afghanistan/Iraq wars—but death rates differ by time since deployment, age, and gender

Rates of fatal motor vehicle accidents were highest among military members immediately following their return from deployment, while the highest rates of fatal accidental overdose deaths occurred later in postdeployment life. Younger soldiers between 18-24 years old were at highest risk for MVA and accidental overdoses.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

Cobalt-free batteries could power cars of the future

MIT researchers have developed a cobalt-free battery material that offers improved sustainability and comparable performance to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The new organic material can conduct electricity at similar rates, store capacity, and be charged faster than cobalt-containing batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 18, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Towards more accurate 3D object detection for robots and self-driving cars

Researchers developed a network that combines 3D LiDAR and 2D image data to improve small object detection accuracy. The model outperformed existing methods in various noise conditions, with average precision improvements of up to 7.18%.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2024

A system designed at the UMA estimates the speed of vehicles driving on the same road

A computer vision system developed by University of Malaga engineers estimates vehicle speeds in real time using a single camera, reducing complexity and costs. The algorithm, published in Neurocomputing, aims to improve vehicle safety and has potential applications in autonomous driving and driver assistance.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNeurocomputing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2023

Free electric vehicle charging at work? It’s possible with optimum solar

Researchers propose optimising campus solar PV system to support over 200 electric vehicles with free or nominal charging facilities. This could reduce annual electricity costs by more than 9% while helping lower peak power demand by at least 12%.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalRenewable Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2023

Using machine learning to monitor driver ‘workload’ could help improve road safety

Researchers developed an adaptable machine learning algorithm to measure driver 'workload' using driving performance signals, enabling real-time adjustments to in-vehicle systems for enhanced safety and user experience. The system can respond to changes in the driver's behavior, status, road conditions, or characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Vehicles·DateDec 7, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New study finds electric vehicles are driven less than gas cars

A large study of used cars and SUVs found battery electric vehicles driven almost 4,500 fewer miles than gas cars annually. This challenges current assumptions about emissions savings from EVs, highlighting the need for better understanding of driver behavior to accurately predict emissions reductions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJoule·DateNov 6, 2023

Study: Underground car parks heat up groundwater

A study found that underground car parks in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland warm the groundwater throughout the year. The team proposes using geothermal energy and heat pumps to extract excess heat from the ground, which could supply sustainable heat to cities like Berlin.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2023

CityU joint research creates 3D-printed aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance

A team of researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a novel aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance using advanced 3D printing techniques. The new alloy, called NTD-Al, surpasses the fatigue strength of high-strength wrought Al alloys and conventional metals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Revolutionizing radar: Integrated THz emitter for precise rotating target detection

Researchers have developed an integrated THz vortex beam emitter to detect rotating targets with remarkable precision. The system uses spiraling electromagnetic waves with orbital angular momentum to accurately measure the speed of a rotating object, with a maximum margin of error of just around 2 percent.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 20, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New method helps AI navigate 3D space using 2D images

Researchers developed MonoXiver, a new method to help AI extract 3D information from 2D images, making cameras more useful tools for emerging technologies. The method significantly improves accuracy when used in conjunction with existing techniques, such as MonoCon.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2023

Ability to drive a car influences quality of life of older adults in Japan

A study by Waseda University researchers found that car ownership among older Japanese adults is associated with higher self-rated health status, greater independence, and a more positive attitude towards receiving help. The study suggests that autonomous driving may play a key role in improving mobility for older adults.

SourceWaseda University·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Cars, chlamydia and canines are biggest koala killers

A study analyzing data from KoalaBASE found that car strikes, dog attacks, and chlamydia-related illnesses are responsible for a significant number of koala deaths in South East Queensland. The research suggests that interventions such as road signs, overpasses, and information campaigns can help reduce these fatalities.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2023

Tracking drivers’ eyes can determine ability to take back control from ‘auto-pilot’ mode

A new method can detect drivers' attention levels from their eye movements, enabling the development of more effective takeover signals. The study found that drivers who are engrossed in on-screen activities take longer to respond to warnings, highlighting a potential safety concern.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCognitive Research Principles and Implications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

MU researchers study barriers and facilitators to accessing health care in rural Missouri

A recent MU study found that health and healthcare organizations are increasingly offering basic social services, such as transportation, housing, food, and mental health support, to address disparities in health outcomes. The research team explored innovative solutions implemented by care coordinators and social services to help overc...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProfessional Case Management·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2023

Self-driving cars can make traffic slower

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that connected vehicles improve travel time through intersections, but automated vehicles without connectivity actually increase wait times. The study suggests that incorporating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is crucial for optimizing traffic flow.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Child car seat installation errors common even with top-rated seats

Despite high ratings, child car seat installation errors are common, with most frequent errors found in seat belt installations and top tether usage. Certified technicians can provide guidance on correct installation and usage, ensuring optimal safety for young passengers.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·DateJul 21, 2023

Scientists developing way to make cheaper Lithium batteries

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to mix sodium with lithium in high-quality batteries, driving down costs and ensuring the supply. The technique uses a specialized technique to measure energetic stability, allowing for a more stable mixture of up to 20% sodium.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateJul 11, 2023

Leading the way to cyber safety on roads and highways

The University of Houston's CYBER-CARE research center aims to prevent cyberattacks that could compromise the safe movement of people and goods in the US. The center will focus on four goals, including exploring advanced theories to mitigate the impact of large-scale cyberattacks.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJul 6, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Testing real driverless cars in a virtual environment

The VVE method allows for testing of driverless cars in a perfectly safe environment, enabling the car to learn to avoid collisions and increase pedestrian safety. By replacing high-resolution sensor output with simulated data, researchers were able to show that the autonomous driving system behaves as if it's driving on real roads.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSensors·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2023