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New robot can help treat rare birth defect

Researchers created a robot to aid in treating babies with oesophageal atresia, a rare genetic disease that affects the infant's oesophagus. The robot stimulates cells by gently pulling on tissue using sensors.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience Robotics·DateJan 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stingray soft robot could lead to bio-inspired robotics

Researchers developed a soft robot that mimics the stingray's flattened body shape and side fins, enabling the creation of bio-electromechanical systems. The robot features living heart cells, biomaterials, and flexible electrodes, allowing it to 'flap' its fins.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 12, 2018

Robotic weeders: to a farm near you?

Robotic weeders are being increasingly adopted by farmers due to their ability to efficiently control weeds in specialty crops like lettuce, broccoli, and tomatoes. While they have limitations, the technology is improving with advancements in programming and sensor technology.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateJan 10, 2018

Robot drummer posts pictures of jamming sessions on Facebook

A study by Queen Mary University of London researchers found that robot drummer Mortimer's social media posts sparked significant human interaction, particularly when accompanied by photos and comments. Music proved to be a key factor in establishing believability and long-term engagement with the robot.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalIEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems·DateDec 20, 2017

New study shows how birds work to sing together

Researchers discovered that songbirds may coordinate both vocally and visually to boost the effectiveness of their singing partners' responses. The study found that coordination of vocal and visual components of the Australian magpie-lark's audio-visual display enhances the receiver's responses.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateDec 18, 2017
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.

Robotics researchers track autonomous underground mining vehicles

Researchers have created a positioning system using cameras that can track the location of vehicles in underground tunnels with high accuracy. The technology increases efficiency and safety by allowing autonomous vehicles to operate without costly sensing or infrastructure modifications.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateDec 13, 2017

'Black box' recorder puts surgeons' robotic surgery skills under the microscope

Researchers at Keck Medicine of USC used a custom recording tool to evaluate surgeon proficiency in robotic-assisted prostate cancer surgery. The 'black box' recorder captured data on time, distance, and camera movements, allowing experts to identify novice and expert surgeons with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateDec 11, 2017

Robot learning improves student engagement

A study at Michigan State University found that online students using robot-learning technology feel more engaged and connected to instructors and fellow students in the classroom. The innovative system uses robots with video screens controlled by remote users, allowing for individualized interactions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalOnline Learning·DateDec 1, 2017

Amputees can learn to control a robotic arm with their minds

Researchers have discovered that amputees can rewire their brains to control a robotic arm through electrodes implanted in the brain. The study found that chronic amputees can create new connections between brain areas, even years after an amputation, and that these connections become more robust with training.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2017

Comparison of outcomes for robotic-assisted vs. laparoscopic surgical procedures

Two studies comparing robotic-assisted to laparoscopic surgical procedures found no significant differences in postoperative complications or quality of life for patients with renal mass or rectal cancer. Robotic-assisted surgery was associated with prolonged operating times and higher hospital costs, but not increased risk of major co...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 24, 2017
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.

New system proposed for logging physician experience in robotic surgeries

A new web-based program called RoboLog has been developed to improve the reporting of robotic surgeries performed by surgeons in training. The system provides detailed information about a resident's involvement in robotic surgeries, allowing for more accurate assessment of their competency and earlier identification of deficits.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Surgical Education·DateSep 26, 2017

Eight children born after uterus transplants

Eight children have been born to mothers who received fertilized eggs after a uterus transplant, marking significant progress in the field. A new project focuses on robot-assisted operations, aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·DateSep 18, 2017
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.

That's one small step for a DNA robot, one giant leap for mankind

Researchers have created miniature DNA robots that can pick up particles and deliver them to different areas using origami tracks. The robots, which move randomly along the track, have an 80% chance of successful delivery and can perform tasks such as assembling chemical compounds or rearranging nanoparticles on circuits.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2017

Self-folding electronics could enable advanced robotics (video)

Researchers have developed a way to print electronics that can fold themselves into desired shapes, addressing limitations of traditional 3D printing. The new ink-based method uses residual stress to create self-folding devices without additional processing steps or stimulus.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 13, 2017

'Seeing' robot learns tricky technique for studying brain cells in mammals

A team of scientists at Imperial College London has developed a robot that can guide tiny measuring devices to specific neurons in live mice brains, recording electrical currents without human intervention. This automated platform accelerates the study of brain function and brain disorders like Alzheimer's.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNeuron·DateAug 30, 2017
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 fleeting blue glow

A team of UCSB astrophysicists observed a supernova colliding with a nearby companion star, revealing surprising information about the mysterious star. The study demonstrates that the supernova collided with a non-white dwarf companion, implying the white dwarf was stealing matter from a larger companion to explode.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 14, 2017

Robot-driven device improves crouch gait in children with cerebral palsy

A robotic training method improves posture and walking in children with crouch gait by strengthening extensor muscles, particularly the soleus, against a downward pull. The device enhances muscle coordination, resulting in improved walking features such as step length and toe clearance.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 26, 2017

New 3-D technique uses water and robotics to reconstruct complex objects

Researchers developed a technique that uses robotic arms to immerse objects in water, measuring volume displacement for volumetric shape representation. This method achieves more accurate 3D scanning than current methods, particularly for complex objects with hidden parts.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateJul 26, 2017

Making telescopes that curve and twist

A new tool allows users to design collapsible telescoping structures from any 3D shape, enabling compact mechanisms and deployable structures. The research, led by Carnegie Mellon Professors Stelian Coros and Keenan Crane, successfully prototyped flexible robot arms and tent-like structures.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 11, 2017

Milking it: A new robot to extract scorpion venom

A new robot designed by Mr Mouad Mkamel and his team can extract scorpion venom without harming the animal or risking life-threatening electrical shocks. The VES-4 device uses electric stimulation to collect venom droplets, which are then stored safely, offering a safer alternative to traditional manual methods.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 2017
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 new virtual approach to science in space

Researchers suggest using telepresence technology to reduce communication delays in space research, enabling scientists to conduct scientific investigations more quickly. This approach could expand the number of destinations where humans can do great science, including those currently inaccessible due to safety concerns.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 21, 2017

Combatting weeds with lasers

Scientists at the University of Bonn have created a robotic system that uses short laser pulses to weaken weed vitality, eliminating the need for herbicides. The innovative technology has the potential to transform the field of sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·DateJun 7, 2017

Tracking cancer's signaling pathways

A new robot technology reveals that the ADAM10 signalling pathway is activated during melanoma transformation, enabling a better diagnosis and potential simplification of detection methods. The research suggests avoiding cosmetic products with aluminium, which can activate this pathway.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 23, 2017

Large multicenter study shows high success rate for robotic PCI procedures

The PRECISION trial demonstrated clinical and technical success for patients undergoing robotic percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using radial or femoral access. Technical success rates were higher for transradial access procedures, while clinical success rates showed similar outcomes between both approaches.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 12, 2017
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.

Type of treatment for prostate cancer affects quality of life

The study found that sexual function declined after all treatments, with robotic surgery patients regaining function closest to brachytherapy and radiation levels. Urinary incontinence also decreased most for surgical patients, with robotic surgery showing slight improvement over open surgery.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateApr 20, 2017

Researchers to develop 'wearable' robotic tools for surgery

A team of researchers is developing a wearable robotic system for minimally invasive surgery, which will offer surgeons natural movement and the ability to sense, see, control, and safely navigate through the surgical environment. The system will be equipped with exoskeletons that fit over the surgeon's hands, smart glasses with real-t...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMar 14, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Prosthetic arm technology that detects spinal nerve signals developed by scientists

Researchers have created sensor technology for a robotic prosthetic arm that detects signals from nerves in the spinal cord, enabling users to control the device with phantom limb movements. This breakthrough could lead to more functional and user-friendly prosthetics, potentially revolutionizing the lives of amputees.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

Complete sanitation of robotic surgical instruments virtually impossible

A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that robotic surgical instruments are difficult to clean completely, with a protein residue remaining despite multiple cleanings. The researchers suggest establishing new standards for cleaning these instruments using repeated measurements of residual protein.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 31, 2016
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.

Shadows reveal how insects walk on water (video)

Researchers study water strider legs to understand how they can walk on water without displacing it, shedding light on a long-standing scientific mystery. By analyzing the shadows cast by their legs, scientists have confirmed key parameters that allow them to perform this remarkable feat.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateOct 19, 2016

Startup earns commercialization grant for new technology

GuidaBot is developing a robotic system that enables doctors to perform biopsies while the patient remains within an MRI machine, allowing for faster and more precise procedures. The company has received a $225,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support ongoing research and testing of prototype systems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 2, 2016

Virtual peer pressure works just as well as the real thing

Researchers at NYU Tandon found that virtual peer pressure can influence behavior among citizen scientists, with groups performing better when competing against a virtual peer. The study used an experiment with Brooklyn Atlantis, a citizen science project where participants view and tag images of the Gowanus Canal.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalJournal of the Association for Information Science and Technology·DateAug 25, 2016
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.

Study examines different types of surgery for kidney cancer

Robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) has shown excellent patient outcomes compared to traditional open partial nephrectomy (OPN) for endophytic kidney tumors. The study found shorter hospital stays, lower blood loss, and fewer blood transfusions in RPN patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateAug 1, 2016

Robot would assemble modular telescope -- in space

A new concept in space telescope design proposes a modular structure and an assembly robot to build extremely large telescopes in space. The robotic system would enable tasks to be performed without astronaut fatigue.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

In obese prostate cancer patients, robotic surgery reduces risk of blood loss

A Loyola Medicine study found that robotic-assisted surgery to remove the prostate reduces the risk of blood loss and prolonged hospital stays in obese prostate cancer patients. Compared to open surgery, robotic-assisted surgery was associated with a 83% lower rate of blood transfusions and a 72% lower rate of prolonged hospital stays.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalCurrent Urology·DateMay 20, 2016

Shape-shifting modular interactive device unveiled

The Cubimorph modular interactive device can change shape on-demand, featuring touchscreens on each of its six faces and a hinge-mounted turntable mechanism. Researchers from the University of Bristol presented their design rationale and prototypes demonstrating key aspects at ICRA 2016.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMay 17, 2016

Robot's in-hand eye maps surroundings, determines hand's location

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a method that incorporates the robot's arm as a sensor to improve the accuracy of environmental mapping. This approach enables robots to precisely locate their hands, which is crucial for tasks like inspection and manipulation.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMay 16, 2016
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.

How does robotic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery compare to VATS for treating lung cancer?

A new study published in Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques shows that robotic video-assisted lung resection achieves comparable outcomes to conventional VATS and preserves more healthy lung tissue. The robotic approach allows for fewer conversions to open thoracotomy and more lymph nodes retrieved for testing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateMay 10, 2016

Study reveals safety and feasibility of robotically assisted PCI in complex cases

A new study has demonstrated the safety and feasibility of robotically assisted percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with complex coronary lesions. Similar clinical outcomes were achieved compared to manual PCI procedures, with no increase in resource utilization or patient radiation exposure reported.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 4, 2016

Amping antimicrobial discovery with automation

Researchers adapted high-throughput screening technology to identify effective antimicrobial compounds against the bacterium Streptococcus mutans. The automated system delivered results indistinguishable from human-led experiments and reduced testing time by a third, paving the way for potential new antibiotics.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAMB Express·DateMar 16, 2016
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.

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.

Self-calibration enhances BrainGate ease, reliability

A new study improves BrainGate's user experience and performance with three software innovations, allowing users to control electronic devices without frequent recalibration. The advancements enable longer use sessions and improved accuracy, paving the way for a practical BCI assistive technology.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 11, 2015

Soft robot changes color as it grips and walks (video)

A new advancement in soft robotics has been reported, enabling elastic material to change color when stretched. This feature can help robots camouflage themselves, indicating areas of vulnerability, while also allowing for potential applications in medicine delivery and repair.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 14, 2015
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.

New smart robot accelerates cancer treatment research

A new smart lab robot system optimizes cancer treatment by finding the best combination of drugs to kill cancer cells without harming healthy ones. The robot is part of a broader effort to improve cancer treatment research and find new drug compounds for resistant cells.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 22, 2015