A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that COVID-19 remains detectable for up to three hours in aerosols, up to four hours on copper, and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel. The virus can also be transmitted through casual contact, highlighting the importance of proper hygiene practices.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 20, 2020
A study published in Scientific Reports found that opening plastic packaging can generate small amounts of microplastics. The researchers monitored the generation of microplastics during tasks such as tearing open plastic bags and bottles, finding that different shapes and sizes of microplastics were produced.
SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 19, 2020
The study found that fish species and size affect the types and amounts of plastics ingested, with larger fish consuming more plastics. The research sheds light on how plastics enter marine ecosystems from urban watersheds and highlights the need for better understanding to reduce plastic pollution's impact.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 18, 2020
Researchers developed a biodegradable film from fish scales to create flexible electronic displays. The film was found to be transparent, flexible and environmentally friendly, dissolving in hot water and degrading within 24 days.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 18, 2020
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.
A study by Washington State University researchers reveals that over 90% of US tap water contains nanoscale plastics, with unknown health and environmental consequences. The team is now working on techniques to remove these plastics from water.
SourceWashington State University·JournalWater Research·DateMar 13, 2020
Researchers at NIST identified acetic acid as a prime suspect in accelerating the degradation of polyamide-based backsheets, which are common in solar panels. The study highlights the importance of interplay between solar panel components in determining their longevity.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateMar 10, 2020
Researchers found that sea turtles respond to odors from biofouled plastics in the same way they respond to food odorants. This 'olfactory trap' explains why sea turtles ingest and become entangled in plastic debris. Biofouling, the accumulation of microbes on wet surfaces, is a major factor contributing to this attraction.
SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 9, 2020
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.
Researchers have developed a new process to produce polyolefins with varying levels of branching, allowing for easier recycling and potentially reducing plastic waste. The method also enables the creation of plastics from natural oils and other substances, addressing environmental sustainability issues.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 9, 2020
Sea turtles eat ocean plastics due to their smell, which is caused by a coating of algae and microorganisms on the plastic. This can lead to blockages in their digestive systems and even illness.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 9, 2020
Research shows that microplastics are damaging to coral ecosystems, causing significant reductions in population size and cell size. The exposure of endosymbionts to microplastics led to elevated stress levels and reduced detoxification activities, highlighting the importance of minimizing plastic use to preserve the environment.
SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalChemosphere·DateMar 5, 2020
Researchers at Cornell University developed a new way to control the properties of high-density polyethylene, a type of plastic commonly used in containers. The breakthrough allows for improved processability and strength while reducing the energy required for production and recycling.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 4, 2020
Researchers have used X-ray analysis to study lignin, a byproduct of paper production, and its potential as a sustainable raw material for manufacturing bioplastics. The study reveals that different lignin fractions can be engineered to have varying properties, such as hardness or softness, making them suitable for specific applications.
SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateMar 3, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
An international team of scientists has made a breakthrough discovery using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, revealing one-dimensional defects in two-dimensional zeolite nanosheets that improve filtration properties. The findings suggest enhanced separation and catalysis capabilities for molecules based on size and shape.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 3, 2020
Researchers discovered that the transverse arch (TA) contributes significantly to the stiffness of the human foot, with half of its stiffness attributed to this structure. The study's findings have implications for understanding flatfoot disorder and the design of robotic feet.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2020
Scientists use a cheap technique to mimic neutrinos colliding with ice, detecting radar echoes that carry information about high-energy particles. The method could eventually allow researchers to expand the energy reach of IceCube without breaking the bank.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 25, 2020
The review highlights the global scope of microplastic pollution, affecting not just oceans but also land surfaces and the air. Researchers emphasize the need for holistic studies and improved analytical tools to understand microplastics' impacts on ecosystem health and human health.
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.
A study found that bisphenol S, a BPA substitute, causes changes in gene expression and neurotransmitter levels in the mouse placenta, similar to BPA. The findings suggest that BPS may be toxic to humans, despite some differences in human and mouse placentas
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020
Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.
SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateFeb 7, 2020
High self-control individuals experience food as tastier and more satisfying when touching food directly with their hands, eating more of it. Direct touch triggers an enhanced sensory response, influencing how people evaluate food. This effect persists even when self-control is primed or manipulated.
SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateFeb 5, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Jia Niu's NSF CAREER-funded project aims to grow polymer chains uniformly, creating degradable and sustainable plastics. His research focuses on addressing pressing needs in biomedicine, materials, and environmental sciences.
Researchers have created a fireproof solid electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries that can function well even when exposed to flames. The new material provides an energy density and performance comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries while being significantly lighter.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 5, 2020
Researchers find wooden pallets have a slightly lower carbon footprint than plastic pallets on both one-trip and 100,000-trip basis. Heat-treated wooden pallets incur a 20-30% lower carbon footprint than methyl bromide-fumigated ones.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·DateFeb 4, 2020
Researchers discovered a substantial concentration of microplastics in the Delaware Bay, accumulating in hotspots driven by tidal, wind, and buoyancy variations. The study used field sampling and modeling to simulate microplastic distribution and found high concentrations near salinity fronts where surface currents converge.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 3, 2020
Scientists at the University of Bath have developed a new chemical recycling method that can break down plant-based plastics like PLA into their constituent molecules. This technology has the potential to create a circular economy by reusing carbon indefinitely, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalChemSusChem·DateJan 29, 2020
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.
A new soft and stretchable battery developed by Stanford researchers can store power more safely than conventional batteries, promising to enable the design of comfortable wearable electronics. The device maintains a constant power output even when stretched or squeezed.
SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2020
A new composite film made with an antimicrobial layer has shown promise in reducing the growth of harmful bacteria on packaged meat and fish products. The film, which contains a biopolymer called pullulan and an antimicrobial compound called Lauric arginate, was found to be effective in killing pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.,
SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateJan 21, 2020
A team from Nara Institute of Science and Technology has developed a method to embed information in 3D printed objects and retrieve it using a consumer document scanner. The technique uses Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) with modified layer thickness to hide data.
SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Multimedia·DateJan 16, 2020
A new project at Aarhus University aims to develop a standardized, documentable 3D printing filament from recycled plastics. The goal is to improve the industry's reliance on new plastics and reduce waste., This innovation has the potential to significantly impact the environment and climate in the long term.
Researchers at ETH Zurich develop a new form of 18-carat gold that weighs about five to ten times less than traditional gold, with a density of just 1.7 g/cm3. The lightweight gold is created by embedding thin discs of gold nanocrystals in a matrix of protein fibres and polymer latex.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 10, 2020
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.
A new study finds that low doses of DEHP impair egg production in roundworms by increasing DNA double-strand breaks and hampering repair systems. This can lead to chromosomal defects and embryonic development problems.
A new University of Guelph study finds that BPS can hinder heart function, especially in females, with effects occurring within minutes of exposure. The study's findings raise concerns about the safety of BPS as a replacement for BPA and suggest banning it from consumer products.
SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 2020
A longitudinal study of 209 New York City women and their offspring found a decrease in fine-motor functions among girls following prenatal exposure to specific phthalates. The analysis identified three phthalates most linked to the deficits: mono-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate, and mono-isobutyl phthalate.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironment International·DateJan 6, 2020
Researchers at Universidad Complutense de Madrid developed an AI-powered algorithm that uses deep learning to detect irregularities in rice labelling. The algorithm achieved precision models between 93 and 99%, showing potential for future applications in the food industry.
SourceUniversidad Complutense de Madrid·JournalFood Control·DateDec 20, 2019
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a method to turn plastic waste into valuable chemicals by harnessing sunlight, converting non-biodegradable polyethylene into formic acid, a chemical used in fuel cells and energy generation.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 11, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Scientists have introduced a new electrochemical method to produce ethylene from CO at room temperature and standard pressure, achieving high Faradaic efficiency and C2 selectivity. The technique uses a copper catalyst and optimized electrode structure, allowing for efficient separation of gaseous ethylene.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 11, 2019
The Society for Risk Analysis announced the 2019 winners of Best Paper and Best Poster awards. Terje Aven, Sayanti Mukherjee, Christian Blanco, Edward Oughton, and others won top honors for their significant contributions to risk analysis theory and practice.
Scientists have discovered a new function in a plant enzyme that can initiate a crucial chemical reaction, producing diols used in lubricants and plastics. The enzyme's unique dioxygenase chemistry has implications for designing greener industrial catalysts with less waste and toxic chemicals.
SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateDec 9, 2019
A new European research project, HOTMIC, aims to investigate the fate of microplastic in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study's lead researcher suggests that microplastic particles may be transported by microorganisms or marine animals, which could have a significant impact on the marine ecosystem.
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.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan and UVic have discovered a new 'hyper glue' formula that uses cross-linking technology to tightly bond plastics and synthetic fibers, making them stronger and more resistant to impact and corrosion.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScience·DateDec 4, 2019
A new study found that corals are more likely to eat microplastics when fed other food sources, but not when given microplastics alone. The research suggests that some coral species may adapt to life with microplastics, while others may be negatively impacted by chronic exposure.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 3, 2019
The Marine Biological Laboratory team has used innovative microscopy to reveal the structure of microbial communities coating microplastic samples from various ocean sites. These biofilms can influence the microplastics' fate and interact with other organisms, posing a threat to marine survival.
SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateDec 2, 2019
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.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a novel approach to improve perovskite nanocrystal durability by encasing them in a plastic and silica double-layer protection system. The new method enables high-quality, complex architecture perovskites with controlled dimensions and surface chemistry, unlocking potential for v...
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2019
A new study has found that babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are exposed to harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and parabens. These endocrine-disrupting compounds can lead to various health problems, including dysfunctions in children and adults.
SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 28, 2019
Researchers used Escher's woodcut to predict crystalline body deformation under external forces, revealing a connection between hyperbolic spaces and plastic deformation. The study proposes a new mathematical description of complex material deformation phenomena.
SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 21, 2019
OSU researchers aim to understand micro- and nanoplastic behavior in freshwater, estuarine, and marine systems. They will develop tools to identify these particles and investigate their effects on aquatic organisms, including oyster larvae and inland silversides.
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.
A new 3D printing technique harnesses the power of visible light to create 'living' 4D materials with controlled polymerisation, enabling objects to transform their shape in response to conditions. The technology has numerous potential applications, including recycling and biomedical uses.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 18, 2019
A Rutgers University study found that women exposed to stress and plastic additives during late pregnancy are at increased risk of premature birth. The research suggests that the third trimester is a critical window for this risk, with higher levels of phthalates in urine and reported stress during pregnancy also linked to preterm births.
A pre-clinical study suggests that bisphenol-s (BPS) and bisphenol-f (BPF), structural analogues of bisphenol-a (BPA), have less impact on heart electrical function, making them potentially safer for vulnerable populations. This finding could lead to the development of alternative medical products.
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.
A new PSU study found 11 microplastic pieces per oyster and nine per clam along the Oregon coast. Microplastics were found in both Pacific oysters and razor clams collected from all 15 sample sites.
SourcePortland State University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateNov 12, 2019
Researchers developed a new alloy with improved wear and corrosion resistance by adding copper to high-speed steel. The innovative approach significantly enhances the performance of super engineering plastics in industrial and automotive applications.
SourceTohoku University·Journalnpj Materials Degradation·DateNov 12, 2019
New research reveals that surface slicks in coastal waters of Hawai'i contain a high concentration of larval fish, as well as prey-size plastics. Larval fish ingesting these plastics may face development and survivorship impacts due to toxicity and malnutrition.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
Associate Professor Kohsaka and his team created a new polyester using DMDO, which reacts with chemicals and decomposes. The study demonstrated the feasibility of this plastic as a possible solution to the plastic waste problem.
SourceShinshu University·JournalEuropean Polymer Journal·DateNov 11, 2019
Researchers found that larval fish in ocean surface slicks ingest prey-size plastics, which could impact their development and survival. The study highlights the importance of understanding complex gradients in plankton and larval fish abundance to protect these vulnerable life-history stages.
SourceBangor University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
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.
Research finds that prey-size plastics are abundant in fish nurseries and outnumber larvae by 7 to 1. The discovery could impact marine ecosystems as these plastics may be ingested by larger fish.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
Larval fish from various ocean habitats consume plastic, affecting development and survival. Surface slicks act as nursery habitats, concentrating planktonic prey and plastics.
SourceArizona State University, Center for Global Discovery and Conservation Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
A recent study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found that simulated sunlight can degrade microplastics on the ocean surface. The research revealed that engineered polymer solutions degraded most rapidly under UV radiation, followed by polypropylene and polyethylene.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateNov 7, 2019
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have successfully created plastic collimators using 3D printing technology, which can replace metal counterparts in radiation therapy. The team used a numerical model and layer-by-layer deposition to manufacture the first products, finding optimal thickness for the plastic product.
SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalPhysica Medica·DateNov 6, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers have embedded high-performance electrical circuits inside 3D-printed plastics, increasing conductivity by 10-fold. This innovation could lead to smaller, more efficient drones and biomedical implants, as well as better-performing small satellites.
SourceRutgers University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateNov 5, 2019
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a new material that can be used to produce cheaper infrared plastic lenses. The lenses, made from a sulfur-based polymer, are stronger and more temperature-resistant than previous versions and can be produced at lower temperatures, making them more affordable.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 29, 2019
Researchers at KRICT developed a bio-polycarbonate that surpasses petroleum-based polycarbonate in terms of strength, transparency, and UV-resistance. The material exhibits exceptional performance due to the synergistic interplay between isosorbide and nanocellulose.
SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateOct 28, 2019