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Spider-inspired depth sensor

The spider-inspired depth sensor combines metalenses and nanophotonic parts for low-computation depth sensing, paving the way for microrobots and wearable devices. It reduces computation required compared to previous passive sensors, enabling future applications in various fields.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2019

Artificial intelligence system gives fashion advice

A University of Texas at Austin team developed an AI system named Fashion++ that analyzes outfits and suggests tweaks for a more fashionable look. The tool uses visual recognition systems to consider color, pattern, texture, and shape, offering alternative outfits to users.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateOct 23, 2019

Stem cell study offers new way to study early development and pregnancy

Researchers at Salk Institute create mouse blastocyst-like structures from single cultured cells, mimicking the natural developmental process. The blastoids can form a ball with an inner and outer layer, accumulating proteins that induce expression of proteins to build what could eventually become a placenta.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 21, 2019
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.

SciLifeLab and AstraZeneca use cryo-EM to advance biomedicine

A team of researchers from SciLifeLab and AstraZeneca have used cryo-EM to unravel the extracellular region of the receptor tyrosine kinase RET, which is involved in degenerative diseases. The study reveals how two large RET monomers dimerize on the membrane, leading to potential therapeutic targets for neuronal survival.

SourceScience For Life Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 2019

Photosynthesis olympics: can the best wheat varieties be even better?

Researchers conducted a 'Photosynthesis Olympics' study to identify the most efficient wheat varieties, finding that top performers were up to 90% better than worst ones due to genetic differences. The results have significant implications for breeders and farmers, offering potential for improved yields with reduced inputs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateOct 17, 2019

Image analysis to automatically quantify gender bias in movies

A KAIST research team developed an advanced system to automatically analyze visual information in films and quantify gender bias. The study found that female characters are often depicted in passive emotions and surrounded by specific objects, promoting public awareness of the importance of prudence when creating characters.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateOct 17, 2019

Blood-collection device makes radiation testing quick and easy

A new blood self-collection device has been developed to quickly estimate a person's exposure to radiation in the event of a nuclear accident or attack. The device, which can process samples in a centralized lab, could help triage emergency medical treatment and alleviate a sample collection bottleneck.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2019
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.

AFAR to lead national program office of new Clin-STAR coordinating center of the NIA

The Clin-STAR Coordinating Center, led by AFAR, will promote and enrich the career development of clinician-investigators across specialties and disciplines. The center aims to improve care for older adults through a multi-faceted national platform, leveraging the expertise of four principal investigators from Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Yale...

SourceAmerican Federation for Aging Research·DateOct 8, 2019
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.

New fluorescence method reveals signatures of individual microbes

Researchers at University of Tsukuba developed a new CRIF method to detect unique fluorescent signatures of individual microbial cells in mixtures. The non-destructive technique allows for realistic three-dimensional environments and can distinguish between different types of microbes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 3, 2019

ORNL develops, deploys AI capabilities across research portfolio

ORNL's labwide AI Initiative applies machine learning and deep learning to tackle complex problems in materials science, disease diagnosis, and cybersecurity. The lab's powerful computing resources and expertise enable researchers to develop new technologies and extract insights from massive datasets.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateSep 24, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

MIT's fleet of autonomous boats can now shapeshift

Researchers at MIT have developed a new algorithm that enables the 'roboats' to smoothly reshape themselves as efficiently as possible. The system, designed for Amsterdam's canals, allows groups of linked roboat units to unlatch from one another and reattach to form various structures, such as bridges and stages.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 29, 2019

Gene therapy reduces obesity and reverses type 2 diabetes in mice

A new gene therapy has been developed to specifically reduce fat tissue and reverse obesity-related metabolic disease in obese mice by targeting a fatty acid metabolism gene. The therapy resulted in a 20% reduction of body weight and improved insulin resistance and inflammation after just six weeks of treatment.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press·JournalGenome Research·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Color-changing artificial 'chameleon skin' powered by nanomachines

Researchers developed artificial 'chameleon skin' that changes color when exposed to heat or light using nanoparticles coated in a polymer shell. The material's color-changing abilities rely on light-powered nano-mechanisms, similar to nature's chromatophores, allowing for dynamic displays and active camouflage.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateAug 21, 2019

Physicists use light flashes to discover, control new quantum states of matter

Researchers at Iowa State University have made three groundbreaking discoveries about non-equilibrium quantum phase discovery via non-thermal ultrafast quench near quantum critical points. These findings could lead to the development of new technologies such as optical computing, novel sensors and high-speed communication capabilities.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 20, 2019

Data analysis tool to help scientists make sense of mouse's calls

A new computer tool can reveal valuable insights into rodents' communication patterns and is more reliable than existing methods. The system analyses audio recordings of ultrasonic vocalisations to determine different types of sounds, standardizing interpretations for direct comparisons.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2019

Sorting out who needs a pill sorter

A new study has found that pharmacies are giving out twice as many pill organisers as ten years ago, which can cause harm to some patients. The research team developed guidelines for healthcare teams to identify patients who may benefit from using a pill organiser or alternative solutions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateAug 7, 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.

Development of flexible sensors mimicking human finger skin by DGIST

Researchers at DGIST developed flexible sensors that can detect pressure and vibration similar to human skin, with more sensitive detections. The sensors mimic 'Slow Adaptive' and 'Fast Adaptive' receptors, enabling accurate classification of fabric roughness and potential applications in artificial skin grafting and VR experiences.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 6, 2019

DOE announces $6.5 million for isotope R&D and production

The DOE has allocated $6.5 million to advance isotope research and development, focusing on cancer diagnostic and therapeutic agents, as well as improving production techniques. This funding will enhance isotope availability and purity for US applications in science, medicine, and industry.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·DateAug 5, 2019

Brain reorganization predicts language production

Research in four-year-old children found that the right hemisphere can take over language functions when the left hemisphere is damaged early in development. This flexibility of the brain offers insight into typical language development and recovery from injury.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateAug 5, 2019

Manufacture of light-activated proteins

A new strategy for designing light-sensitive proteins has been developed by researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum. They combined computer-aided and experimental methods to create a more targeted approach, enabling the manipulation of protein building blocks without impairing function.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemBioChem·DateAug 2, 2019

Argonne-led center receives award for pivotal discovery in battery technology

The Argonne-led Center for Electrochemical Energy Science has developed two new electrode technologies that use graphene to improve lithium-ion battery properties. These advancements have led to increased power, lifetime, and safety, as well as the ability to function at low temperatures, critical for electric vehicles in cold regions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Chameleon-inspired structural color soft robot can interact with environment

A novel soft robot with color-changing capabilities has been developed by mimicking the chameleon's skin cells. The robot can sense its environment and exhibit dynamic color change in response. Its unique properties make it suitable for sensing, communication, and disguise in soft robotics.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateJul 31, 2019

75% of asthma sufferers unable to work to their full potential

A new multi-national survey found that nearly one-tenth of work hours are missed by asthma sufferers, resulting in significant productivity loss. Additionally, workers reported feeling embarrassed, ashamed, and inferior when using inhalers at work.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Asthma and Allergy·DateJul 30, 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.

MSU receives $2.5 million for less commonly taught languages

Michigan State University has received a $2.5 million grant to develop the teaching of less commonly taught languages, particularly Indigenous languages, through a multi-university initiative. The project will create sustainable models of instruction and promote language proficiency to deepen cultural understanding.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJul 29, 2019

The role of racial discrimination in alcohol abuse

A University of Houston researcher is studying the impact of racial discrimination on moderate-to-heavy drinking adult Latinxs, revealing higher rates of anxiety and excessive drinking. The study aims to raise awareness about sociocultural experiences that increase risk for addiction.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJul 22, 2019

AI radar system that can spot miniature drones 3 kilometers away

A new AI radar system developed by DGIST can detect subminiature drones flying as far as 3km away, thanks to the use of super-resolution algorithm and AESA radar signal processing technology. The system also integrates GANs-based drone cognition technology for real-time detection and identification.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters·DateJul 17, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Two GW researchers receive prestigious presidential award

Chunlei Liang and Volker J. Sorger are awarded PECASE for their outstanding research in fluid dynamics and photonic integrated devices. Their work has the potential to revolutionize software that predicts space weather and develop faster information processing systems.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateJul 12, 2019

New developments with Chinese satellites over the past decade

The FY series satellite program has undergone four main stages, with recent advancements focusing on improved core data processing techniques. Chinese meteorological satellites are now a crucial component of the global observing system, providing stable and accurate measurements.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 11, 2019
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.

US Naval Research Laboratory 'connects the dots' for quantum networks

Researchers at US Naval Research Laboratory developed a new technique that enables precise control over quantum dot wavelengths, paving the way for breakthroughs in quantum information technologies and brain-inspired computing. This achievement could lead to new technologies that harness the strange properties of quantum physics for co...

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 9, 2019

Equations help predict the behavior of water in rivers

Researchers developed a system of physics equations to model how water spills out over an earth dike, causing it to break and overflow. The new model takes into account the deformation of the dike's bed while water erodes it, providing more accurate predictions and improving flood safety.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Hydraulic Engineering·DateJul 2, 2019

An innovative method for detecting defaulting participants based on sparse reconstruction

Researchers have developed a novel method to detect defaulting participants in contract-based demand response programs by leveraging sparse reconstruction. By analyzing limited data from smart meters and applying an iterative improvement technique, the proposed method enables accurate detection of failure sources with minimal inspections.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalIEEE Transactions on Smart Grid·DateJul 1, 2019
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.

Now your phone can become a robot that does the boring work

A Purdue University researcher has developed an app that allows users to easily program robots to perform mundane tasks, such as picking up parts and delivering them. The app uses augmented reality and can be used for household chores, reducing the need for expensive software programmers or mobile robots.

SourcePurdue University·DateJun 18, 2019

New application can detect Twitter bots in any language

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland developed a machine learning-based application to detect Twitter bots across languages. The tool achieved high accuracy, classifying 15,000 tweets from Finnish, Swedish, and English, and can quickly process vast amounts of data.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·DateJun 13, 2019

New tool can pinpoint origins of the gut's bacteria

A UCLA-led research team developed FEAST, a faster and more accurate tool to determine microbiome origins. The software can analyze large genetic information datasets in just a few hours, offering insights into the unseen ecological processes affecting human health.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 12, 2019
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.

Talking to each other -- how forest conservation can succeed

A German research team developed a framework to classify conservation objectives, highlighting key areas of consensus and shortcomings. The study found that stakeholders agree on protecting diverse forest ecosystems and species, but there is room for improvement in abiotic resource conservation and socio-cultural considerations.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Conservation·DateJun 6, 2019

New research helping to reveal more about megaviruses

Researchers from Swansea University have published a study examining the unexpected genes carried by these giant viruses found inside amoebae. The findings provide valuable information on how these viruses may be linked to some forms of pneumonia, paving the way for new treatments and understanding their biology.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2019

New DOE program connects fusion companies with national labs, taps ORNL to lead

The Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) program aims to accelerate fusion energy development through research collaborations between industry and DOE's national laboratory complex. ORNL will manage the program, leveraging its expertise in plasma experimentation, materials development, and computer modeling of fusion systems.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 4, 2019

Networking with ghosts in the machine... and speaking kettles

The research team conducted 'talking head' interviews with household objects, including a smart kettle, to understand our relationship with networked technologies. The experiment aims to uncover new ways of thinking and create practical tools for making sense of the IoT.

SourceLancaster University·JournalThe Design Journal·DateJun 3, 2019
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.

Chasing species' 'intactness'

Researchers developed a new metric called The Last of the Wild in Each Ecoregion (LWE) to quantify ecologically intact ecosystems. However, testing LWE against another method found neither to accurately capture the abundance of large mammal species sensitive to human disturbance.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·DateMay 31, 2019