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Touch your philodendron and control your computer

Researchers at Disney Research have created a technology called Botanicus Interactus, which enables plants to control digital devices with touch detection. This technology uses Swept Frequency Capacitive Sensing and machine-learning algorithms to recognize frequency changes associated with touches on the plant.

SourceDisney Research·DateAug 3, 2012

Study examines health-care expenditures after bariatric surgery

A new study examining the health-care expenditures after bariatric surgery found no significant association between the procedure and reduced healthcare costs. The research suggests that trends in adjusted total expenditures mirrored those of outpatient and inpatient expenditures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJul 16, 2012
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.

Standing for long periods during pregnancy may curb fetal growth

Research found that women who spent long periods standing during pregnancy had slower fetal growth rates, with an average head circumference reduction of 1 cm. Long working hours were not consistently associated with restrictions on fetal development or premature birth, but excessive work may impact birth weight.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJun 27, 2012

Research suggests denser development is good for single-family home values

A study by researchers at the University of Washington found that higher neighborhood density improves single-family home values. The study also discovered a positive association between proximity to retail and multifamily rental property values, highlighting the economic value of walkable neighborhoods.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalURBAN DESIGN International·DateJun 26, 2012

Berkeley Lab wins 4 2012 R&D 100 awards

Berkeley Lab's Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry (LAMIS) technology enables remote chemical analysis on other planets, while the Compact Variable Collimator (CVC) improves X-ray beam shaping for protein crystallography. The Multinozzle Emitter Array (MEA) accelerates biomedical research by analyzing biomolecules in microfl...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 20, 2012
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.

Argonne researchers receive 4 R&D 100 awards

Four Argonne National Laboratory-developed technologies have been awarded R dashD 100 honors, including Globus Online for big data research and three battery materials for plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJun 20, 2012
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.

Development of prosthetic hands stagnated for 20 years

A study by researchers from TU Delft and the University of Groningen found that contemporary body-powered prosthetic hands perform equally or less well than those from 1987, with insufficient grip strength required to operate them. The study suggests that user overload problems may be a result of excessive operating force, highlighting...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateJun 12, 2012

University of Arizona researchers awarded $3.6 million to design metaphorical cybersecurity map

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing a visualization system to detect suspicious network activity in real-time, using a geographic map metaphor to facilitate human analysis. The system aims to provide quick high-level information to non-experts and comprehensive data to experts, while also offering customization opti...

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJun 12, 2012

Weather patterns can be used to forecast rotavirus outbreaks

Researchers found that rotavirus incidence is higher during the coldest, driest months of the year in South Asia. They also discovered an association between rotavirus and vegetation density, suggesting a potential tool for disease surveillance and prevention.

SourceTufts University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 31, 2012

London researcher calls for new approach to regulating probiotics

A Category Tree system would categorize products based on tested human studies and health benefits, forcing companies to conduct research or change product labels. This system aims to improve transparency and facilitate further research in North America and Europe.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Tattoo-like devices for wireless pregnancy monitoring

A team of researchers, led by Professor Todd Coleman, has been awarded a Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop flexible tattoo-like devices for continuous pregnancy monitoring. The devices, which use skin-mounted electronics systems, aim to detect signs and symptoms of pre-term labor in a reliable and non-invasive manner.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMay 9, 2012

UC Riverside receives grant for global health and development research

The University of California, Riverside has received a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a low-cost method for detecting biotic stresses in maize crops. This project aims to use a simple, home pregnancy test-like technology to visually alarm farmers to take action against devastating losses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMay 9, 2012
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.

Happiness model developed by MU researcher could help people go from good to great

A new happiness model developed by a MU researcher identifies two key components: the need for new positive experiences and appreciation for what already exists. The model suggests ways to reduce the 'let down' from material purchases and helps individuals train themselves to stay at their highest possible range of happiness.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMay 7, 2012

New avocado rootstocks are high-performing and disease-tolerant

Three new rootstocks, Zentmyer, Steddom, and Uzi, have demonstrated superior tolerance to Phytophthora root rot (PRR), a devastating disease affecting avocado production globally. The rootstocks offer improved yields and salt tolerance, enabling growers to manage PRR effectively.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHortScience·DateApr 27, 2012

£6 million boost for UK space technology industry

The UK Space Agency has granted nearly £6 million to support four major research and development consortium projects led by Astrium Ltd, Avanti Communications Ltd, DMC International Imaging Ltd, and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. The projects focus on developing commercial products and services using space technology and data.

SourceUK Space Agency·DateApr 10, 2012
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.

Using Twitter to predict financial markets

A University of California, Riverside professor and researchers developed a model that uses Twitter data to predict traded volume and value of a stock the following day. The model outperformed other investment strategies by between 1.4 percent and nearly 11 percent.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 26, 2012

Significant global shortfall of trained eye doctors now and in future

The number of ophthalmologists worldwide is insufficient to meet the growing demands of ageing populations and developing countries. The global shortfall of trained eye doctors is a pressing concern, particularly in low-income countries where capacity is increasing faster than the population.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateMar 26, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New technology to aid crystallization prediction

Visual HABIT software helps predict crystal properties in different chemical environments, reducing early-stage laboratory research and development costs. The technology enables companies to adopt a 'bottom-up' approach to product design in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and fuel sectors.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMar 16, 2012

New research suggests cap and trade programs do not provide sufficient incentives for innovation

A new study by Margaret Taylor of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory finds that successful cap and trade programs often reduce incentives for innovation, as low-cost emissions reductions lead to lower allowance prices. This has significant implications for developing more effective pollution control targets.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2012
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.

Study shows that urinary mercury is not correlated with autism

A recent study of 56 children with autism spectrum disorders found no statistically significant correlation between urinary mercury levels and autism. The researchers suggest that mercury excretion rates are unlikely to have a clear causal link to autism spectrum disorders.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 15, 2012

From the University of Houston's Texas Obesity Research Center

The Texas Obesity Research Center (TORC) has developed a research group to examine three childhood obesity programs, including MEND and CATCH. TORC is also partnering with the community to improve health and end obesity through community-based participatory research methods.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 9, 2012

Carbonized coffee grounds remove foul smells

Researchers at City College of New York develop an eco-friendly filter to remove hydrogen sulfide gas from the air, using carbonized coffee grounds. The activated carbon boosts its smell-fighting power with nitrogen from caffeine, capturing pollutants like H2S and potentially separating other toxic substances.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateFeb 7, 2012
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.

Polarization imaging: Seeing through the fog of war

A new circular polarization filter developed by a collaborative team of scientists has the potential to enhance vision through dust and clouds, improve early cancer detection, and even enhance 3D movie experiences. The filter allows users to measure the polarization state of light quickly and efficiently.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateFeb 1, 2012
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.

High-tech models help guide restoration efforts to save threatened plants

Researchers developed topographic models using LiDAR data to predict habitat suitability for endangered plants in dry environments. The team plans to use satellite observations to create digital elevation models, guiding effective restoration efforts and identifying suitable areas for plant growth.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·DateJan 23, 2012

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter's LAMP reveals lunar surface features

The Lyman Alpha Mapping Project detects water frost and high surface porosities in lunar permanently shadowed regions, challenging previous assumptions about its loss and accumulation. This finding adds to the understanding of the Moon's water resources and supports future exploration and potential permanent base considerations.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateJan 13, 2012

Identifying sloth species at a genetic level

Conservation researchers at San Diego Zoo Global's Institute of Conservation Research have developed a low-cost, molecular tool for identifying two-toed sloth species. The technique uses a mitochondrial marker and restriction enzyme assay to distinguish between closely related species.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalZoo Biology·DateJan 3, 2012

New research platform paves way for future bio-based society

The University of Copenhagen has launched a new research platform aiming to develop hybrid technologies for more efficient production of biofuels. The platform will test dual-purpose crops that can provide both food and biomass for fuel and chemicals, aiming to reduce the industry's reliance on oil.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·DateDec 21, 2011
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Oxytocin helps people feel more extroverted

Researchers from Concordia University discovered that oxytocin increases a person's perception of themselves as more extroverted and open to new experiences. The study involved administering nasal sprays containing oxytocin to 100 young adults, who reported higher ratings of extraversion and openness.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateDec 9, 2011
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.

European consortium contributes to global standards for 4G technology

A European consortium, led by EUREKA, has developed global standards for 4G technology, which will enable new ecosystems for mobile systems and devices. The consortium brought together major telecommunications companies and research institutes to create faster and more reliable wireless internet connections on smartphones.

SourceEUREKA·DateNov 16, 2011

ONR maps long-term investment for future Naval requirements

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has released its latest science and technology strategic plan, emphasizing the importance of autonomous systems and speed-to-fleet in meeting future naval requirements. The plan also highlights initiatives to increase the talent pool of future naval scientists and engineers.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateNov 16, 2011

Boppart presents at Congressional briefing

Professor Boppart discusses the importance of federal funds for research in medical imaging, enabling diagnosis and improving healthcare. He highlights the potential of optical coherence tomography to reduce re-operations and develop compact imaging devices for primary care physicians.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateNov 15, 2011
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.

A KAIST research team has developed a fully functional flexible memory

A KAIST research team has developed a fully functional flexible non-volatile resistive random access memory (RRAM) that can be randomly accessed, written, and erased on a plastic substrate. This breakthrough overcomes cell-to-cell interference issues by integrating a memristor with high-performance silicon transistors.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNano Letters·DateNov 3, 2011

MIT: New algorithm could substantially speed up MRI scans

A new algorithm developed at MIT's Research Laboratory of Electronics can dramatically speed up MRI scans, cutting the time patients spend in the machine from 45 to 15 minutes. The algorithm uses information gained from the first contrast scan to produce subsequent images, significantly shortening the acquisition time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Medicine·DateNov 1, 2011
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Spray-on protective coating wins 'R&D 100' Award

The HybridSil Fire/Blast coating is a game-changer for military applications, offering blast- and fire-resistance to various surfaces. It was developed by ONR scientist Dr. Roshdy George S. Barsoum and can be applied like paint, with minimal surface preparation.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateOct 13, 2011