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SMART researchers discover novel way to perform ‘general inverse design’ with high accuracy

Researchers from Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have discovered a way to perform 'general inverse design' with high accuracy. This breakthrough enables the creation of materials with specific characteristics and properties, paving the way for revolutionizing materials science and industrial applications.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022

New journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis study shows novel strategy to improve quality checking of generic drugs

Researchers devised a novel approach to unify quality assessment of generic drugs developed through different processes. The 'population pharmaceutical quality assessment' method uses computational modeling to evaluate process information, providing a scientific tool for objective quality consistency evaluation.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 3, 2022
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.

Exposure to formaldehyde at work linked to cognitive problems later

A study of 75,322 people in France found a significant association between long-term formaldehyde exposure and lower levels of cognitive functioning. Workers exposed to formaldehyde for 22 years or longer had a 21% higher risk of global cognitive impairment compared to those who were never exposed.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 22, 2021

Giving bug-like bots a boost

Researchers at MIT have developed a new fabrication technique that enables the creation of soft actuators with 75% lower voltage requirements and 80% more payload capacity than current versions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of flying microrobots with improved performance and payload capabilities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 16, 2021
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.

3D printing leads to light-weight knee brace for the elderly

A lighter, more robust knee brace for the elderly has been developed through a collaboration between Delsson and Nanyang Technological University. The X-Brace uses lightweight plastic and assistive springs to reduce weight by 30%, making it easier for patients to walk with less pain.

SourceNanyang Technological University·DateDec 15, 2021

Creating the human-robotic dream team

A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has developed a system to enhance interactions between humans and robots in industrial settings. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to capture and analyze the environment, allowing robots to respond in a timely manner to ensure human safety.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalRobotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A step toward “living biotherapeutics”

The coating protects bacteria during the freeze-drying and manufacturing process, allowing them to be used therapeutically. The researchers tested the coating on a strain of E. coli and another species that aids in digestion of plant starches.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 10, 2021

Predictive analytics pays off with complementary investments

A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that predictive analytics can increase revenue by $500,000 to $1 million for manufacturers who invest in IT capital, educate their workforce, and implement high-efficiency manufacturing processes. The research team surveyed over 30,000 manufacturers and found that...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalBusiness Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Building better tools for biomanufacturing

A team of researchers has developed a Dynamic Sampling Platform to analyze cells in real-time, overcoming the time-consuming and expensive process of biomanufacturing. The platform provides insight into cell behavior and biochemical information needed for process control, potentially lowering the cost of cell therapies.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

World-first product will be a lifesaving traffic stopper

Researchers at University of South Australia are developing a world-first product to design traffic lights that absorb kinetic energy, stopping them from crumpling when hit by a vehicle. The technology has the potential to reduce road safety-related costs and injuries worldwide.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateNov 29, 2021

Getting quantum dots to stop blinking

A team of chemists at MIT has developed a method to control the blinking phenomenon in quantum dots using mid-infrared laser light, eliminating intermittency for precise applications. This technique may also be applicable to other materials, enabling new uses in biological research and quantum information science.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 22, 2021
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.

Chemistry breakthrough leads way to more sustainable pharmaceuticals

Scientists at the University of Bath have developed a new method for synthesizing primary amines, used in over half of all pharmaceuticals, significantly reducing energy usage and chemical waste. This breakthrough aims to speed up drug discovery by making it easier to synthesize new chemical structures for testing.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

New project focuses on rare categories

The new project aims to bridge the gap between complex rare category analysis and state-of-the-art techniques. It will focus on developing explainable methods for detecting defective silicon wafers and severe complications among diabetes patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateNov 16, 2021

Polymer discovery gives 3D-printed sand super strength

Researchers designed a novel polymer to bind and strengthen silica sand for binder jet additive manufacturing, creating structures with intricate geometries and exceptional strength. The study demonstrates a 300-times-weight limit for a 3D-printed sand bridge.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 2021

New scalable method resolves materials joining in solid-state batteries

Scientists at ORNL developed a scalable, low-cost method to improve materials joining in solid-state batteries, resolving one of the big challenges in commercial development. The electrochemical pulse method increases contact at the interface without detrimental effects, enabling an all-solid-state architecture.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021
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.

COVID-19: Governments must stop vaccine cost secrecy

A recent study estimates that the net manufacturing costs for 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine ready for shipping range from $0.54 to $0.98. Companies charge significantly higher prices, despite discounts and tiered pricing for low-income countries, which are likely to prolong the global pandemic.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2021

Research shows mass production can make customised PPE for healthcare workers

A team of researchers has successfully designed and manufactured customised respiratory protection for healthcare workers using digital facial capture. The technology, developed by the University of Birmingham and King's College London, provides a comfortable close-fitting seal suitable for nearly 90% of face shapes and sizes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2021
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.

Ensuring accuracy in 3D-printed jet engine parts

A team of engineers at the University of Arizona is using machine learning methods to monitor and mitigate defects in additive manufactured metal parts designed for use in extreme environments. The system combines data processing, process optimization, materials analysis, and machine learning to predict defects.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateNov 1, 2021

Four reasons why businesses won't adopt reusable packaging – and one way to address them all

A new study by Lancaster University identifies four major concerns that hinder the adoption of reusable packaging: affordability, digitalization challenges, regulatory hurdles, and data collection limitations. To address these concerns, researchers propose implementing a track and trace system using unique barcodes to enable businesses...

SourceLancaster University·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2021

Magnetic material 3D-printed from nonmagnetic powder

Researchers at Skoltech and their colleagues have successfully created a magnetic material by 3D printing a gradient alloy from nonmagnetic powders. The resulting alloy exhibits ferromagnetic properties, opening up potential applications in machine engineering, such as electrical motors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Processing Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

SMART researchers discover new way to generate light through use of pre-existing defects in semiconductor materials

SMART researchers have discovered a practical method to overcome current challenges in the manufacture of indium gallium nitride (InGaN) LEDs with considerably higher indium concentration. The new approach uses intrinsic defects in semiconducting materials to form quantum dots that emit long-wavelength light.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalACS Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Nanotwinned titanium forges path to sustainable manufacturing

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have discovered a new path forward for processing titanium. Cryo-forging at ultra-low temperatures produces extra-strong nanotwinned titanium with improved strength and ductility. The material maintains its structure and properties at extreme temperatures, demonstrating its versatility.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

New technique paves the way for perfect perovskites

A new instrument at the Advanced Light Source enables simultaneous measurement of crystal structure and optical properties during perovskite synthesis. This allows for real-time monitoring of material quality and performance, leading to potentially more efficient solar cells.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Accelerating the discovery of new materials for 3D printing

Researchers at MIT develop a data-driven process using machine learning to optimize new 3D printing materials with multiple characteristics. The system lowers costs and lessens environmental impact by reducing chemical waste and suggesting unique chemical formulations that human intuition might miss.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2021
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.

Lack of power grids sealed fate for early electric cars

A recent study from Lund University reveals that inadequate infrastructure hindered the adoption of electric cars in the early 20th century. Electric cars were cheaper to drive and emitted less CO2 than gasoline cars, but access to local electrical infrastructure was a major factor in their popularity.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 13, 2021

New images lead to better prediction of shear thickening

Shear thickening occurs when particles in a low-viscosity solution behave like a solid under stress. Researchers at North Carolina State University captured microscopic images of particles as they underwent shear thickening, revealing complex networks formed between particles and their shapes dependent on particle roughness.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 7, 2021

‘I saw cancer cells just popping up at me’

La Trobe University researchers developed a smart microscope slide that can detect cancer cells using enhanced color contrast. The technology uses nanoscale modifications to distinguish cancer cells from normal tissue, making early diagnosis more efficient.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2021
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.

University of South Carolina researcher to advance smart manufacturing with help from National Science Foundation

A new $3.8 million NSF EPSCoR RII Track-2 grant will enable the expansion of Future Factories Lab at the UofSC McNair Aerospace Center, investigating interactions between humans and automation in manufacturing facilities. The project aims to create a manufacturing resilience ecosystem with significant workforce development opportunities.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·DateSep 23, 2021

Researchers mimic how water and wind create complex shapes in nature

Researchers at Aalto University created intricate shapes like letters by manipulating tiny metal balls with vibrating plates and energy fields. The smart algorithm efficiently guided the particles to achieve desired shapes, inspired by natural phenomena like wind and water.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 22, 2021
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.

Model advances understanding of incorporating 3D printing into supply chains

Researchers developed a computational model to optimize the use of additive manufacturing in spare parts supply chains, finding that centralized systems are more efficient for less frequent demand with high variability. The study's findings provide a step forward in understanding how to incorporate AM technologies into supply chains.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Defense Analytics and Logistics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2021

Yeast and bacteria together biosynthesize plant hormones for weed control

Scientists have developed a method to produce strigolactones, a group of plant hormones that prevent excessive budding and branching. By combining yeast and bacteria, researchers can synthesize these hormones from microbes, providing a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021

Scientists explore method to produce composites with ‘shape memory’

Researchers investigated glass fiber-reinforced epoxy-based flat laminates with pultrusion, a fast and versatile composite manufacturing process. The study found significant promise for structural applications of these 'shape memory' composites in various industries.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalComposites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

Aided eye: Neural network helps augment 3D micro-CT images of fibrous materials

Researchers from Skoltech and KU Leuven used machine learning to reconstruct 3D micro-CT images of fibrous materials, overcoming the difficulties faced by humans in analyzing these complex materials. The team employed GANs to fill a gap in available inpainting tools, enabling precise material analysis and simulation.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalComputational Materials Science·DateAug 18, 2021

Cooperation under pressure: Lessons from the COVID-19 swab crisis

A team from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center created all-new swabs for COVID-19 testing in just three weeks by leveraging open-source collaboration and 3D printing. The swab crisis highlighted the importance of cooperation, openness, and scalability in solving complex problems.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateAug 18, 2021

Scalable quantum computing research supported by $2 million grant

A UC Riverside materials scientist has received a $2 million grant to improve the scalability of quantum computers, allowing them to operate at room temperature. The project aims to create design guidelines and manufacturing strategies for hybrid organic-inorganic structures that can produce quantum computers on a larger scale.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 17, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

‘Missing jigsaw piece’: engineers make critical advance in quantum computer design

Quantum engineers at the University of New South Wales have discovered a new technique to control millions of spin qubits, a critical step towards building a practical quantum computer. This breakthrough uses a novel component called a dielectric resonator to focus microwave power and deliver uniform magnetic fields across the chip.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

Mathematical model of thermoplastic composite helps design and certify highly reliable structures

Researchers at Skoltech developed a mathematical model for thermoplastic composite materials, reducing conservatism in strength calculations. The model allows for virtual testing of structures, minimizing manufacturing costs while ensuring safety and quality requirements.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping·DateAug 10, 2021

Urgent global need for low-cost ventilators

A UK team developed a portable ventilator to treat COVID-19 patients in developing countries. The Field Ventilator can be used beyond COVID-19 to treat various respiratory diseases and patients needing respiratory support.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalHealth Science Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Brain-inspired highly scalable neuromorphic hardware presented​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a brain-inspired highly scalable neuromorphic hardware by co-integrating single transistor neurons and synapses. This innovation dramatically reduces hardware cost and accelerates the commercialization of neuromorphic hardware, enabling its application in mobile and IoT devices.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 5, 2021

Story tips: Sensing oil leaks, 3D prints in space, more fuel from ethanol, Arctic modeling boost, making isotopes faster and nano-enabled microscopy

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are advancing various technologies to minimize oil leaks, enable 3D printing in space, and increase fuel efficiency from ethanol. They have developed a quantum sensing system to detect pipeline leaks more quickly, built a thermal protection shield for a capsule launched into space, and creat...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

Siddha Pimputkar recognized for early-career success in crystal growth

Siddha Pimputkar, an assistant professor at Lehigh University, has received the American Association for Crystal Growth (AACG) Young Scientist Award for his outstanding contributions to crystal growth. His research focuses on synthesizing bulk and thin-film single-crystal nitrogen-containing materials.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 2, 2021
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.

£3 million grant to advance machinery design and performance

The University of Huddersfield's Centre for Precision Technologies will receive £3m funding to drive advancements in machinery design and performance. The project aims to grow the UK's advanced machinery capability to a £2 billion export capacity within ten years, creating over 30,000 high-value manufacturing sector jobs.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJul 28, 2021

Hybrid cars are twice as vulnerable to supply chain issues as gas-powered models

Researchers found hybrid electric vehicles have twice the vulnerability to supply chain disruptions as gas-powered models, due to volatile battery prices and scarce materials. Long-term supplier contracts and material substitution can mitigate these risks as manufacturers ramp up EV production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 28, 2021

Solving the plastic shortage with a new chemical catalyst

A new chemical catalyst has been developed to efficiently produce propylene from natural gas, which is used to make polypropylene. The catalyst, made of platinum and tin nanoparticles supported by silica, can make propylene at least 10 times more efficiently than current commercial catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateJul 8, 2021

Story tips: Powered by nature, get on the bus, accelerating methane and more

Scientists at ORNL developed a modular design for 3D printing power poles from bioderived materials, enabling quick restoration of electricity after natural disasters. Additionally, they demonstrated wireless charging technology on an autonomous electric vehicle, advancing the transportation industry towards a decarbonized future.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 6, 2021
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.

Engineer's graphene additive manufacturing research makes journal's cover story

The team has developed supercapacitors that have been tested for 10,000 cycles of charging and discharging cycles, demonstrating their reliability. Additionally, they have printed micro-supercapacitors on mechanically flexible surfaces using polyimide substrates, showcasing the versatility of these devices.

SourceKansas State University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJul 2, 2021