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Helpful, engineered 'living' machines in the future?

Researchers created a soft mechanical metamaterial that can compute digital logic computations using binary inputs and outputs. The material thinks by reconfiguring its conductive polymer network in response to mechanical force and electrical signals.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021

Resilience against replay attacks in computer systems

Researchers from the University of Calabria developed a predictive control scheme that can identify and protect against replay attacks in distributed networks. The approach uses a 'receding horizon' model to predict future system behavior and detect unexpected events, allowing for swift protection against malicious actors.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 10, 2021

Why our brains miss opportunities to improve through subtraction

A study by University of Virginia researchers reveals that people systematically default to additive strategies, overlooking subtractive ideas. This habit can lead to missed opportunities to improve the world through subtraction, with implications across various contexts, including engineering and policy.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021
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.

What can stream quality tell us about quality of life?

Researchers found a strong correlation between stream conditions and human demographics, particularly along racial lines. Stream quality is linked to mortality rates and cancer rates, highlighting the need for environmental justice. Understanding how people interact with nature is crucial to drawing conclusions about health outcomes.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Indicators·DateMar 5, 2021

Can bacteria make stronger cars, airplanes and armor?

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering used living bacteria to create new materials with superior mechanical properties. These materials exhibit exceptional strength, fracture resistance, and energy dissipation, making them suitable for aerospace panels, vehicle frames, body armor, and defense applications.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 22, 2021

Engineers earn NASA grant to enable flying taxis

A team of US engineers has received a $5.8 million NASA grant to create computational design tools for air taxi designs. The project aims to develop safe, quiet, and affordable eVTOL aircraft using advanced design optimization algorithms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 12, 2021

New technology to detect bitter almonds in real time

A new system developed by the University of Córdoba's research groups can predict levels of amygdalin in almonds and classify sweet and bitter ones on an industrial scale. The portable equipment uses Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to analyze nuts quickly and non-invasively.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·DateJan 29, 2021

Experts reduce search times for novel high-entropy alloys 13,000-fold using Cuckoo Search

Researchers at Lehigh University and Iowa State University have developed a hybrid Cuckoo Search algorithm that accelerates computational modeling of complex alloys by reducing search time up to 13,000-fold. This breakthrough enables the creation of physically realizable systems that can be directly compared against experimental samples.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Computational Science·DateJan 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.

Xu developing tool to support resilient power grid

Researchers are developing a flexible simulation-based outer-loop application tool for resilient power grid planning and optimization. The tool leverages scalable parallel processing, adaptive computing budget allocation, and scientific machine learning to predict and respond to disturbances.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateDec 11, 2020

Outside Oz, GLINDA reports on tornado acoustics

A new system called GLINDA allows researchers to capture the unique sound signature of a tornado, improving understanding of its behavior and potential impact on false alarm rates. By measuring infrasound at close range, scientists can gain valuable insights into tornado production and reduce the number of deaths caused by these deadly...

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 7, 2020

Optimizing complex modeling processes through machine learning technologies

The study uses data-driven techniques and machine-learning architectures to improve the accuracy and efficiency of modeling processes. The researchers found that convolutional neural networks (CNN) and physics-informed neural networks (PINN) have potential in optimizing modeling processes for specific aspects of the solution process.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Mechanical Design·DateNov 23, 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.

Enzymatic breakdown of PET plastic

Researchers successfully degrade PET plastic using a two-enzyme system and engineered chimeric enzyme that works synergistically to break down the plastic pollutant. The discovery could lead to new methods for plastics depolymerization, offering an alternative to traditional recycling methods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2020
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.

Beating noise via superposition of order

Researchers at UQ and Griffith University use quantum superposition of order to successfully transmit information through two noisy channels. The technique, which can nullify the effect of one noisy medium on another, has potential applications in satellite communication and secret sharing.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateAug 25, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A storage battery for the entire world

Researchers at the University of Freiburg are developing a new storage concept that balances power density with affordability, recyclability and ease of use. The 'Plug-In' project aims to create a scalable and intelligent battery system for decentralized electrification in rural areas.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·DateJun 2, 2020

A stitch in time: How a quantum physicist invented new code from old tricks

A quantum physicist at the University of Sydney has invented a new type of error-correcting code for quantum computers that will free up more hardware to do useful calculations. This approach allows companies like Google and IBM to design better quantum microchips, enabling the development of large-scale quantum technology.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 22, 2020
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.

Jones named fellow of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers

Erick C. Jones, a renowned researcher at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE). He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work on radio-frequency identification technologies, Lean Six Sigma Quality Management, and autonomous inventory ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMay 13, 2020

Researchers present a microbial strain capable of massive succinic acid production

A research team has developed a microbial strain capable of producing succinic acid with the highest production efficiency to date. The strain, isolated from a Korean cow's rumen, was engineered through systems metabolic engineering and enzyme engineering to produce 134 g per liter of succinic acid.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 6, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

Development of new system for combatting COVID-19 that can be used for other viruses

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have created a reverse genetic system for SARS coronavirus 2, allowing for quick development and evaluation of vaccines and diagnosis of infected patients. The system enables high-throughput testing in 12 hours, significantly reducing turnaround time compared to conventional methods.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 6, 2020
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.

Lunar lasers and cosmic crops: NASA funds UArizona space exploration missions

Researchers at the University of Arizona are working with NASA to develop new methods for harvesting water from the lunar surface using lasers. The mission aims to create a system that can efficiently extract water and nutrients from the lunar environment, enabling sustainable food production in space. With the help of tiny satellites ...

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateMar 6, 2020

Speak math, not code

Using Euclid's algorithm as an example, Dr. Lamport showed how a precise mathematical formula can be used to specify an algorithm, making it more efficient and easier to debug. By using math instead of code, developers can reduce the size of their programs by up to ten times and make debugging easier.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateMar 1, 2020

Off-grid sanitation systems show promise, despite toilet paper

Researchers from Duke University have conducted field trials of their off-grid sanitation system, finding that critical components lasted longer than expected. However, the system still requires improvement in nutrient removal processes and addressing cultural practices to ensure sustainability.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateFeb 17, 2020

Developed a band-aid-like sensor to detect human body conditions in real-time

Developed a patch-based health diagnosis sensor system that collects various health information in real-time by monitoring biosignals and certain movements. The sensor's stable structure mimics snake motions, spider webs, and paper craft, making it durable despite intense body movements.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateJan 8, 2020
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.

New system transmits high-speed unrepeated signal over 520 kilometers

Researchers successfully transmitted a signal over 520 km at 200 Gbps using commercial cables and stimulated Raman scattering effect, increasing signal-to-noise ratio. The system uses remote optically pumped amplifiers to amplify the signal along the link without electrical power sources.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalIEEE Photonics Technology Letters·DateDec 16, 2019

Nature might be better than tech at reducing air pollution

Restoring native vegetation could cut air pollution by an average of 27 percent, according to a new study published in Environmental Science & Technology. The research found that nature-based solutions might be cheaper options for cleaning the air near industrial sites and other pollution sources.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 6, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Choose your own adventure

A novel player trait model has been developed to evaluate individual gaming preferences, enabling the creation of tailored experiences. The five-trait model assesses social, aesthetic, challenge, goal, and narrative elements to provide personalized game recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateSep 25, 2019

Engineers demonstrate key step in robotic disassembly

Engineers have designed a robotic system to automate the disassembly of component parts, a key task in remanufacturing. The new process can reduce energy and raw materials usage by up to 90% and CO2 emissions by over 80%.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Tel Aviv U and Technion researchers wrest control of one of world's most secure PLCs

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Technion Institute of Technology discovered critical vulnerabilities in the Siemens S7 Simatic programmable logic controller. They successfully reverse-engineered the proprietary cryptographic protocol and gained control of the PLC's operations, demonstrating how a sophisticated attacker can a...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateAug 8, 2019

OSC paper earns honors at research computing conference

A new framework for software management was recognized for its potential impact on computation-based science, enabling the Ohio Supercomputer Center to efficiently install and test applications for a wide range of users. The framework leverages automated tools and continuous integration to streamline the process.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateJul 30, 2019
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.

Why some cities turn off the water pipes at night

A new paper proposes a simple yet powerful model to understand why some water suppliers turn off their supply at certain times, highlighting both benefits and drawbacks of intermittent systems. The model can help guide global efforts to meet UN's Sustainable Development Goals and its Human Right to Water.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJul 2, 2019

New platform flips traditional on-demand supply chain approach on its head

A new platform has been developed that provides suppliers with a certain amount of choice, improving supply and demand matching for underutilized resources. The approach was found to perform better than existing methods, especially when there is limited information about the supplier's preferences.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalTransportation Research Part B Methodological·DateJun 19, 2019

Self-repairing batteries

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a material that can significantly extend battery life and increase capacity. The oxygen redox-layered oxide (Na2RuO3) material, when used in lithium-ion batteries, enables self-repair due to its stronger coulombic attraction force, reducing degradation from charge and discharge cycles.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2019

Bioengineers program cells as digital signal processors

Researchers have developed a system that allows living cells to perform analog-to-digital signal processing, enabling precise control over cellular responses. This breakthrough expands the toolkit for synthetic biologists, who can now use genetic circuitry to process complex signals and make informed decisions.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

Inducing immune tolerance to autoimmune targets

A Phase 1b clinical trial successfully induces immune tolerance to autoimmune targets in patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. The treatment involves introducing peptide-loaded tolerogenic dendritic cells, which stimulate the production of IL-10 and promote immune tolerance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 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.

New way of designing systems against correlated disruptions uses negative probability

Researchers have developed a new method to design systems with greater disaster resistance and resilience by incorporating negative probability. This method models correlated disruptions as independent impacts on virtual supporting stations, reducing complexity and enabling easier calculation of probabilities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalTransportation Research Part B Methodological·DateMar 28, 2019

Taking up the charge to modernize energy grid software

A Lehigh University team led by Frank E. Curtis is developing new algorithms to improve resilience in the Department of Energy's Grid Optimization Competition. The goal is to address complex optimization problems, such as the SCOPF problem, and develop more flexible and resilient grid software.

SourceLehigh University·DateMar 20, 2019
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.

Exposing flaws in metrics for user login systems

Researchers found that 94% of recent authentication systems have flaws in their reported performance metrics, leading to potential security consequences. A novel solution proposes combining two metrics to measure the success of user login systems.

SourceRutgers University·DateFeb 26, 2019

What happens when bombs explode?

Engineers at the University of Sheffield are developing more effective bomb protection systems by studying explosions in detail. The project aims to provide a better understanding of blast loading and its effects on structures, enabling the design of safer buildings and materials.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateJan 14, 2019
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.