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Editorial interview in IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics on the future of optical modulators and integrated photonics

Industry and academic experts discuss the potential of new materials, configurations, and integration technologies to overcome bandwidth limitations and operational robustness issues in silicon photonic modulators. These advancements are expected to impact emerging applications such as data centers, AI, quantum information processing, ...

SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 18, 2024
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.

Metalenses harness AI for superior performance

Researchers have developed a deep-learning-powered metalens imaging system that overcomes limitations of traditional metalenses. The system pairs a mass-produced metalens with an image restoration framework driven by AI to achieve aberration-free, full-color images while maintaining compact form factor.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateNov 15, 2024

MIT engineers make converting CO2 into useful products more practical

Researchers created a new electrode design that increases the efficiency of converting CO2 into ethylene, a valuable chemical product. The electrochemical system can now be scaled up for industrial applications without significant energy or cost losses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2024

A review of advanced field weakening control strategies of PMSMs

Researchers have summarized advanced field weakening (FW) control strategies for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), including offline calculation methods, online computational methods, and model predictive control (MPC)-related methods. The studies highlight the importance of balancing computational difficulty with control ro...

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 5, 2024
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.

Newly discovered cyanobacteria could help sequester carbon from oceans and factories

Researchers have discovered a novel strain of cyanobacteria that can grow rapidly in high-CO2 environments, sink in water, and produce valuable commodities. The 'Chonkus' strain has traits useful for biologically-based carbon sequestration and bioproduction.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2024

New solvent free 3D printing material could enable biodegradable implants

Researchers at Duke University have developed a polymer that can be used in commercial 3D printers without solvent, leading to major advantages across different applications. The new solvent-free material has been shown to improve mechanical properties while maintaining biodegradability.

SourceDuke University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 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.

Mizzou scientists create geochemical fingerprints

Scientists use modern technology to analyze ancient ochre samples, revealing the material's origin and history. This helps them understand how human cognition and social networks developed alongside early technological innovations.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2024

Towards implementing neural networks on edge IoT devices

A new training algorithm called ternarized gradient BNN (TGBNN) enables learning capabilities for binarized neural networks (BNNs) on IoT edge devices. The proposed MRAM-based CiM architecture achieves faster convergence and matching accuracy with regular BNNs.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 2024

Materials of the future can be extracted from wastewater

A team of researchers has developed a method to extract valuable materials such as biopolymers and phosphorus from wastewater treatment plants. These biomaterials can be used as sustainable alternatives to oil-based products in various industries, including paper production, building materials, and water purification.

SourceAalborg University·JournalCurrent Opinion in Biotechnology·TypeNews article·DateOct 18, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Artificial intelligence tools bring efficiency to the architectural process

The article discusses how AI tools are transforming the architectural design process, enabling faster production of options for clients. Startups like Arqgen and SleepUp are leveraging generative design techniques to create innovative solutions for interior design and real estate development, respectively.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateOct 16, 2024

A holy grail found for catalytic alkane activation

Hokkaido University researchers have developed a novel method to activate alkanes, making it easier to convert these building blocks into valuable compounds. The new technique utilizes confined chiral Brønsted acids, improving efficiency and selectivity in producing desired products.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2024

ASU-led initiative announces first decarbonization projects for US industry

The ASU-led initiative, EPIXC, aims to develop cost-effective technologies to replace fossil fuel-based industrial process heating with clean electricity. Five jump-start projects were selected to advance innovations in electrified industrial process heating, covering various sectors and temperature ranges.

SourceArizona State University·TypeNews article·DateOct 8, 2024

Revolutionizing textiles: Non-wood cellulose fibers take the spotlight

A recent study explores the feasibility of non-wood cellulose-based textiles, offering a promising direction for the industry. The research highlights the potential of agricultural residues and dedicated fiber crops as viable alternatives to wood-derived pulp.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 5, 2024

Sustainable solutions: The rise of cellulose in water remediation

The review highlights the potential of cellulose-based materials in purifying wastewater without causing environmental harm. Cellulose can be converted into valuable products like hydrogels, aerogels, and nanocellulose for sustainable water remediation.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 5, 2024
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.

Toddlers get nearly half their calories from ultra-processed foods

A new study led by UCL researchers found that UK toddlers obtain nearly half of their calories from ultra-processed foods, with this ratio increasing to 59% by the age of seven. The most common ultra-processed foods consumed were flavoured yoghurts and wholegrain breakfast cereals.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateOct 3, 2024

Ultrasound technology accelerates drying of renewable cellulose nanocrystals

A novel multi-frequency ultrasonic drying technology accelerates the drying of renewable cellulose nanocrystals by up to 50% while minimizing energy consumption. This method demonstrates superior stability in aqueous solutions and aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2024

Revolutionizing waste management: Citrus waste to biopolymers via cavitation

Researchers introduce a novel, green approach to convert citrus waste into bioactive pectin and micronized cellulose using cavitation. The process, termed CytroCav, offers a circular economy practice requiring only water and electricity.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2024

Graphene spike mat and fridge magnet technology to fight against antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a graphene-based, ultra-thin antibacterial material that can kill 99.9% of bacteria on surfaces, including medical devices and implants. The new technology uses fridge magnet technology to control the orientation of graphene flakes, making it possible for practical applica...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Elucidating the process of smart livestock technology adoption by livestock farmers

The study reveals that farmers' decisions to adopt smart livestock technologies are driven by their understanding of the technology's benefits, ease of use, and financial resources. A generational divide is also identified, with younger farmers being more open to adopting new technologies.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2024

Low-carbon ammonia offers green alternative for agriculture and hydrogen transport

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a low-carbon approach to producing ammonia, which is used in fertilizers and as a carrier for hydrogen. The new method uses liquid metal catalysts, reducing energy consumption by 20% and carbon emissions by 98%. This could significantly reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and sup...

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2024

Scientists say we have enough evidence to agree global action on microplastics

A new report by international experts urges a collective approach to tackle plastic pollution, citing over 7,000 research studies on microplastics. The need for global reduction in plastic production and emission of microplastic particles is emphasized to avoid irreversible environmental damage.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 19, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Vegans’ intake of protein and essential amino acids is adequate but ultra-processed products are also needed

Researchers found that Brazilian vegans' diets consisted mainly of unprocessed foods, with a significant reliance on ultra-processed proteins like textured soy protein to meet their protein needs. The study's findings contradict the stigma surrounding veganism and its ability to provide adequate nutrition.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 19, 2024

Study outlines cost-effective paths to eliminating greenhouse gas production

A new study identifies multiple technologies to cost-effectively decarbonize the energy system, prioritizing their adoption and transition. The findings suggest a range of options to achieve near-cost-optimal futures, emphasizing research and development investments.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 18, 2024

Innovative copper-based catalyst paves the way for sustainable ammonia production

Researchers at Tohoku University's AIMR have developed a copper-based catalyst for nitrate reduction to ammonia, achieving a significant enhancement in yield and Faraday efficiency. The catalyst's performance is attributed to structural and phase changes during the electrochemical reduction process.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 2, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from deadly tick-borne disease

A new vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from bovine anaplasmosis, a devastating tick-borne disease causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses. The vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month and is being discussed with industry partners for future distribution.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVaccine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

U.S. capable of achieving seafood independence, new study shows

Researchers found the US can meet its entire seafood demand through domestic production, but current exports and imports limit self-reliance. Increasing consumption of lesser-exported species like herring and anchovy could strengthen the domestic supply and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

SourceUniversity of Maine·Journalnpj Ocean Sustainability·DateAug 15, 2024

Reducing operation qualification time and cost in additive manufacturing

A research project, ACCELERATE, aims to significantly reduce operational qualification time and cost in additive manufacturing by improving validation through detailed tasks and documentation. The project will tackle various aspects of AM operations, including facility controls, operator training, software configuration, and process mo...

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 13, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Reduce, reuse, reflycle

Scientists at Macquarie University propose using genetically engineered black soldier flies to transform waste management and sustainable biomanufacturing. The flies can consume large volumes of waste quickly, producing valuable industrial inputs such as enzymes and lipids.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 13, 2024

Rice-built reactor yields green ammonia and purified water

A Rice-built reactor system can convert nitrates into green ammonia and purified water, decarbonizing ammonia production and treating nitrate-contaminated water. The innovative three-chamber system uses recyclable ions to improve reaction efficiency and eliminates the need for high concentrations of supporting electrolytes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 12, 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.

Urban concrete mines

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to combine old concrete with carbon dioxide to create a new, durable material called calcium carbonate concrete. The process involves grinding the old concrete into powder, reacting it with CO2 from the air, and then heating it to form the new block.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Is that glass bottle of OJ better for the planet than a plastic container?

A recent survey conducted by University of Massachusetts Amherst found that consumers prefer glass packaging for orange juice due to its perceived sustainability, but surprisingly, it is actually among the least sustainable options. The study ranked cartons as the most sustainable followed by plastic, aluminum, and then glass.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalSustainability·TypeSurvey·DateJul 30, 2024

Balancing the seesaw: Simultaneously enhancing strength and elongation in metallic materials

A team of researchers from POSTECH has introduced a novel approach to balance strength and elongation in metallic materials. By using periodic spinodal decomposition, they created an alloy that boasts both high strength and high elongation, achieving a yield strength of 1.1 GPa with nearly the same elongation as before.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 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.

New additive process can make better — and greener — high-value chemicals

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed an eco-friendly method to precisely mix fluorine into olefins using natural enzymes and light, offering a more efficient strategy for creating high-value chemicals with potential applications in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable fuels and more.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Tackling industrial emissions begins at the chemical reaction

Researchers at the University of Sydney have proposed a new way to reduce industrial emissions by utilizing liquid metals in chemical reactions. This approach aims to decrease energy requirements and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2024

Good lives can be provided to the whole world’s population while reducing environmental damage

A new study suggests that ending mass human deprivation and providing good lives for the whole world's population can be achieved while reducing environmental damage. The research proposes that only 30% of current global resources and energy use are required to provide universal access to basic goods and services.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalWorld Development Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 25, 2024

Materials developed to improve hydrogen production from water using microwave radiation

A team of researchers has developed materials that significantly improve the production of green hydrogen through redox cycles. The process uses microwave radiation to obtain hydrogen from renewable electrical energy, reducing CO2 emissions and increasing efficiency. The study, published in Advanced Energy Materials, demonstrates the s...

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 23, 2024

Rising antimicrobial resistance in certain Salmonella serovars isolated from retail chicken meat

Emerging antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella isolates found in retail chicken meat poses a significant threat to public health. The study found a dramatic increase in multidrug-resistant S. Infantis, which has been linked to high levels of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalFood Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 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.

Producing hydrogen and fertilizer at the same time

A research team at Ruhr University Bochum has developed a catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen and nitrite, producing both a clean energy carrier and a fertilizer precursor simultaneously. The process doubles the hydrogen yield while minimizing nitrogen production.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 15, 2024

A better way to make RNA drugs

A team of scientists at Harvard University developed a new RNA synthesis process that produces RNA with efficiencies comparable to current industry standards. The novel method can incorporate all common molecular modifications found in RNA drugs, expanding the RNA therapeutic design space.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Living near oil and gas activity linked to poor mental health during preconception

A new study suggests that people trying to conceive living close to oil and gas development sites experience heightened risk of developing adverse mental health outcomes. High perceived stress was elevated among those living just 1.25 miles away from the activity.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 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.

MIT engineers find a way to protect microbes from extreme conditions

Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to make microbes hardy enough to withstand industrial processing, high temperatures, radiation, and long-term storage. The method involves mixing bacteria with food and drug additives, resulting in stable formulations that can be used in various applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 5, 2024

Why the U.S. food system needs agroecology

The US food system is dominated by industrial agriculture, which perpetuates global challenges like food insecurity and biodiversity loss. Agroecology offers a solution, prioritizing ecological and social sustainability without sacrificing one for the other.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Food·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 5, 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.

How to avoid wasting huge amounts of energy

Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology have developed a technology that can harness surplus heat from industrial processes to produce drinking water and generate electricity. The technology, called membrane distillation, uses thermal osmosis to separate water from impurities.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalDesalination·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2024

Farm-to-table study reveals why whole grains are healthiest

A new study reveals that whole wheat retains major minerals and trace minerals better than refined flour during milling and baking. The study also found that vitamin E levels dropped substantially with each processing step, regardless of the type of flour used.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 1, 2024

Novel method optimizes extraction of antioxidant and colorant from jabuticaba peel

Researchers at UNICAMP and UCA optimize anthocyanin extraction from jabuticaba peel, achieving a higher yield than traditional methods. The novel method uses biosorbent material derived from the residue, resulting in an efficient and environmentally friendly process.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Food Composition and Analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Involving workers essential to ensure industrial policies serve the public interest

A new study finds that Brazilian industrial policies are more effective when involving workers and civil society. Researchers analyzed policy plans and found that those with stronger labor union involvement outperformed weaker ones, highlighting the importance of societal participation in shaping national development goals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDevelopment and Change·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 26, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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