Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Researchers recreate living 3D displays

A team of researchers has developed a smart skin that can change shape and texture using artificial muscles, mimicking the cephalopod's ability to morph its structure. This innovation enables lightweight and flexible displays, interfaces for the visually impaired, and drag reduction on marine vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateSep 23, 2019

Distracted drivers 29 times more likely to wreck in a highway work zone

Researchers at the University of Missouri found that drivers who are distracted while driving in a highway work zone are 29 times more likely to be involved in a collision or near-miss. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 drivers and provides recommendations for behavioral countermeasures to reduce injuries and fatalities.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMar 5, 2019

Weather-responsive intersections could ease traffic congestion

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that adjusting traffic light timing in response to weather conditions can significantly reduce intersection delays. By analyzing video data and running computer simulations, they determined that weather-responsive signal plans could ease congestion and improve safety during snowstorms.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering·DateMar 5, 2019

Getting behind the wheel on opioids: could be a road to tragedy

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that driving while on prescription opioids significantly increases the risk of fatal motor vehicle crashes. The study analyzed data from over 18,000 fatal car crashes and found that drivers who tested positive for prescription opioids were more likely to be involved in fatal crashes.

Small flying robots haul heavy loads

Researchers at Stanford University have developed small flying robots called FlyCroTugs that can pull objects up to 40 times their weight using advanced gripping technologies. The robots' ability to anchor themselves to various surfaces using gecko-inspired adhesives and microspines enables them to navigate through snug spaces and inte...

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Robotics·DateOct 24, 2018

Individuals shot by police exhibit distinct patterns of recent prior hospitalizations and arrests

A study found that individuals shot by police have arrest histories similar to those involved in assaults and homicides, and medical histories similar to those with self-inflicted firearm injuries. The study identified patterns among intent-specific firearm injuries, including increased risk of interpersonal and self-directed violence,...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 16, 2018

Weather and daily governance

A study analyzed weather data from various sources in the US from 2000 to 2017, revealing links between temperature and risk of fatal crashes, food safety violations, and police stops. Climate projections suggest future warming may impact regulatory oversight, with potential implications for governance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2018

Mission: Possible -- mapping dangerous terrain

Researchers are creating self-guided packages made of biodegradable materials to map coastlines and sea bottoms. These devices aim to dissolve upon reaching shore, providing up-to-date information on potentially hostile regions. Additionally, a swarm of drones will be developed using cameras, sonar, and sensors to evade tracking, with ...

Teen crash risk highest during first three months after getting driver's license

A study by the NIH found that teenage drivers are eight times more likely to be involved in a collision or near miss during their first three months of independent driving. During this period, teens also exhibit four times more risky behaviors, such as rapid acceleration and hard turns.

Intelligent drone swarm

Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have developed a multi-agent robotic system for flying a swarm of intelligent drones. The drones can synchronize their movements, reconfigure their flightpath, and land with high accuracy, avoiding obstacles up to 5 meters away.

Improving drone performance in headwinds

Researchers from Tohoku University found that angling quad-rotor rotors by 20 degrees can reduce pitching by a quarter, improving stability in heavy winds. The study also identified the effects of rotor tilting on pitching moment generation, with outward tilting reducing pitch by 26%.

SourceTohoku University·JournalInternational Journal of Micro Air Vehicles·DateFeb 8, 2018

Multifunctional platform for the delivery of gene therapeutics

Researchers have developed a multifunctional vehicle using gold nanoparticles to transport and release the CRISPR-Cas9 system for targeted gene editing in tumors. The platform combines hyperthermal cancer therapy with genetic modification, offering a promising approach for tumor therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 22, 2018