Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Starting a fluorescent biosensor revolution

A novel synthetic biology platform enables rapid and cost-effective transformation of protein binders into high-contrast nanosensors for various applications. The platform uses fluorogenic amino acids to increase fluorescence up to 100-fold, enabling the detection of specific proteins, peptides, and small molecules.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2024
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.

Improving access to heart-failure screening with saliva

A new biosensor prototype can measure biomarkers for heart failure in saliva, promising a more accessible and affordable way to screen for the condition. The device, which resembles a COVID-19 test, could enable people with limited access to medical facilities to check on their health regularly.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2024

Advanced biosensor uncovers role of gibberellin in integrating light signaling and stem growth in plants

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that gibberellin hormone plays a crucial role in integrating light signaling and stem growth in plants. Using advanced biosensors, they found that gibberellin levels are higher in longer cells and that a specific enzyme called GA20ox1 produces a gradient that controls cell elon...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

Next generation biosensor reveals gibberellin’s critical role in legume nitrogen-fixation – paving the way for more productive legume crops and self-fertilizing cereals

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that the plant hormone gibberellin is essential for legume nitrogen-fixing root nodule formation and maturation. The study used a highly sensitive next-generation biosensor to visualize GA accumulation in specific zones of the root, revealing its critical role in nodulation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 23, 2024

Visualizing addiction: How new research could change the way we fight the opioid epidemic

A new technological breakthrough has enabled scientists to visualize opioid signaling in the brain in real-time, providing a deeper understanding of how opioids affect the brain. This breakthrough has opened up new avenues for developing more effective and safer therapeutics for pain management and mental health disorders.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microbeads with adaptable fluorescent colors from visible light to near-infrared

The team created microbeads that emit various colors of light depending on the illuminating light and bead size, offering a wide range of applications. The use of plant-derived materials allows for low-cost and energy-efficient synthesis, making them an attractive alternative to conventional luminescent devices.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Progress in development of a new high-tech kidney disease urine test

Researchers have developed a novel metasurface platform with aggregation induced emissions (AIE) biosensors to enhance human serum albumin detection in urine tests. The system improves readings and reduces consumption, making large-scale surveys more accessible.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024
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.

Plants utilize drought stress hormone to block snacking spider mites

Researchers discovered that plants employ ABA to close stomata, obstructing spider mites' entry points and significantly reducing pest damage. The closure of stomata also coincides with the production of ABA, a hormone linked with drought response.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Scientists solve chemical mystery at the interface of biology and technology

Researchers at the University of Washington have solved a long-standing chemical mystery in organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), which allow current to flow in devices like implantable biosensors. The study reveals that OECTs turn on via a two-step process, causing a lag, and off through a simpler one-step process.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2024

The Lundquist Institute receives $2.6 million grant from U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity to develop wearable biosensors

The Lundquist Institute has been awarded a four-year, $2.6 million grant to develop wearable multiplex biosensors that can monitor exacerbation risk in COPD. The proposed sensors have the potential to revolutionize COPD management and transform chronic disease management by providing real-time, non-invasive monitoring.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·DateApr 24, 2024

Rapid, simultaneous detection of multiple bacteria achieved with handheld sensor

A handheld device developed by Osaka Metropolitan University's team can detect multiple bacterial species within an hour, including disease-causing E. coli and salmonella. The sensor uses organic metallic nanohybrids to distinguish electrochemical signals on the same screen-printed electrode chip.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2024
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.

Optical microcavities empowered biochemical sensing

Optical microcavities empower biochemical sensing by increasing photon lifetimes and optical field energy density, fostering enhanced sensitivity. Recent advancements have led to breakthroughs in detecting biomacromolecules, cells, and solid particles, with emerging development trends outlined.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·DateMar 21, 2024

Hitting this stretchy, electronic material makes it tougher

A new material has been developed with adaptive durability, meaning it becomes stronger and more conductive when subjected to impact or stretching. The material's conductivity is also improved by adding a small amount of PEDOT:PSS, making it suitable for wearable devices and personalized medical sensors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 20, 2024
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.

Protein-based microcapsule saves sensors and lives

Researchers developed protein-based microcapsules to enhance aptamer sensors, enabling direct detection of target molecules in biological samples. The system demonstrates robust protection against harmful proteins and simultaneous real-time sensing of multiple targets.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 4, 2024

Neurobiology: How bats distinguish different sounds

Scientists have discovered that the bat brainstem processes echolocation and communication calls differently, with a stronger response to less frequent calls due to better neural synchronization. The findings may also be relevant to medical applications in humans, such as understanding diseases like ADHD or schizophrenia.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2024

New approach to real-time monitoring after pancreatic surgery

Researchers developed a portable, droplet-based millifluidic device to monitor patients in the critical first days after surgery. The device measures drainage fluid's alpha-amylase activity in real time, reducing test duration from six hours to two minutes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Would you prefer a mammogram, MRI, or saliva on a test strip?

Researchers have developed a hand-held biosensor that can detect breast cancer biomarkers from saliva with high accuracy and efficiency. The device is portable, reusable, and cost-effective, making it an excellent choice for communities or hospitals without access to advanced technologies like MRI.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateFeb 13, 2024
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.

HZDR team develops a new approach for fast and cost-effective pathogen detection

A research team at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf develops a new approach for fast and cost-effective pathogen detection using miniaturized biosensor devices and systems. The system can simultaneously carry out up to thirty-two analyses of one sample, offering significant advantages over traditional electronic FET-based biosensors.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 7, 2024

Researchers develop rapid test for detecting fentanyl

University of Texas at Dallas researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind, handheld electrochemical sensor that can accurately detect fentanyl in urine within seconds. The device detects even trace amounts of fentanyl with 98% accuracy and could be used to test for the drug in saliva, helping first responders make treatment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
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.

How fruit flies smell CO2

Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum have identified molecules that block CO2 receptors in fruit flies, leading to potential insect repellents. The team's findings could also enable the development of a CO2 biosensor for detecting volatile substances.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2024

A molecular anchor

A team of scientists identified VAP as a molecular anchor that stabilizes mitochondria near synapses in dendrites, supporting memory formation and plasticity. The discovery links VAP to ALS-linked protein and suggests that mitochondrial stabilization is critical for neuronal function and health.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2024
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.

Swapping blood for spit — for convenient at-home health monitoring

Researchers have developed a device that detects glucose and adenosine monophosphate biomarkers in saliva with high sensitivity, enabling easy at-home health monitoring. The electrochemical aptamer-based biosensor is simple, accurate, and stable, making it suitable for use without laboratory equipment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 29, 2023
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.

Miniature device offers peace of mind for diabetics

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a miniature, injectable glucose biosensor and wearable device that enables user-friendly, minimally-invasive continuous glucose monitoring. The device addresses challenges associated with existing CGMs, including size and skin tone compatibility.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateNov 17, 2023

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Self-powered microbial fuel cell biosensor for monitoring organic freshwater pollution

Researchers from Ritsumeikan University developed a low-cost, self-powered biosensor for monitoring organic wastewater in freshwater lakes and rivers. The biosensor uses a microbial fuel cell to detect the level of organic contamination in water samples, providing an early warning system for water quality management.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalBiochemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023

To navigate the world, we all shimmy like these electric fish

Researchers discovered a wide range of organisms, including microbes and humans, exhibit similar movement patterns to navigate their surroundings. These patterns are thought to be linked to uncertainty management in the brain.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023
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.

Vision via sound for the blind

Researchers developed 'acoustic touch' smart glasses that translate visual information into distinct sound icons, enhancing the ability of blind or low-vision individuals to navigate their surroundings. The technology significantly improved object recognition and reaching abilities, empowering independence and quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 25, 2023

Plants transformed into detectors of dangerous chemicals

Researchers at UC Riverside successfully engineered a plant to turn beet red in the presence of a banned pesticide, enabling an environmental sensor without damaging its native metabolism. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for detecting other toxic substances like drugs and birth control pills in water supply.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 23, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology scientists develop deep learning-based biosensing platform to count viral particles better

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed a deep learning-based biosensing platform called DeepGT, which can accurately quantify nanoscale bioparticles, including viruses. The platform harnesses the advantages of Gires-Tournois biosensors and AI to refine visual artifacts and extract relevant info...

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Today·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2023

Researchers are creating a bio-nose that smells for real

A University of Maryland research team is developing a portable bio-nose device capable of identifying complex odors. The team has successfully created an insect-based cell line that can sense odors, and is now studying its responses to different liquids.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateOct 9, 2023
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.

Novel device combines nanopores with electronic signals for disease detection

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have created a device that mimics biological channels to detect biomolecules indicative of human disease. The bioprotonic system uses electrical currents of protons to translate biomolecule presence into electronic signals, with potential applications for in-vitro and clinical settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2023
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.

Researchers engineer bacteria that can detect tumor DNA

Researchers have engineered bacteria that can detect tumor DNA in a live organism, using CRISPR technology. The bacteria, Acinetobacter baylyi, were designed to respond to specific DNA sequences associated with cancer, allowing for early detection and potentially preventing disease progression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023

Latest in body art? ‘Tattoos’ for individual cells

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed nanoscale tattoos that can stick to live cells, allowing for the first time to monitor and control individual cell health in real-time. This technology bridges the gap between living cells and conventional sensors, enabling early disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2023

Insulin-like hormones critical for brain plasticity

Research reveals a local mechanism in neurons that enables insulin-like growth factors to facilitate brain plasticity. IGF release is necessary for activating the IGF1-Receptor during synaptic plasticity, leading to neuron growth and strengthening.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2023

Scientists develop breath test that rapidly detects COVID-19 virus

Researchers at Washington University have developed a breath test that can quickly identify those infected with COVID-19, providing accurate results in under a minute. The device uses an electrochemical biosensor to detect the virus, which has potential applications for use in doctors' offices and public events.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

A butterfly effect

Researchers at MPFI discovered Protein Kinase C delta's (PKCd) role in regulating cell-wide gene expression through synaptic plasticity. The study found that PKCd activates biochemical reactions that spread throughout the neuron, influencing gene transcription and memory formation.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Detection of bacteria and viruses with fluorescent nanotubes

Researchers developed modular optical sensors capable of detecting viruses and bacteria using fluorescent carbon nanotubes with DNA anchors. The sensors showed high reliability and selectivity in detecting SARS-CoV-2 protein, offering advantages for complex environments and future diagnostic applications.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 21, 2023

A new device records brain activity from inside blood vessels

A new device, pioneered by Anqi Zhang, can record brain activity without harming neural tissue, using the passageways of blood vessels. This innovation overcomes previous limitations, enabling precise recording from individual neurons in living animals.

SourceStanford Wearable Electronics Initiative·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023

A varied life boosts the brain’s functional networks

A mouse study using novel biosensing technology reveals that enriched environments increase neural connections and boost brain function. The findings could lead to new AI methods inspired by brain plasticity.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Air monitor can detect COVID-19 virus variants in about 5 minutes

Researchers created a real-time air monitor that can detect SARS-CoV-2 variants in about 5 minutes, with potential applications for hospitals, schools, and public places. The device uses an ultrasensitive biosensing technique and aerosol sampling technology to quickly identify airborne virus concentrations.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023
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.

Researchers make major strides toward an all-purpose biosensor chip

The researchers have demonstrated significant improvements for chip-based sensing devices that can detect or analyze substances across widely varying concentrations. They developed signal-processing techniques that enable seamless fluorescence detection of a mixture of nanobeads in concentrations across eight orders of magnitude.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJun 22, 2023
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.

Scientists develop novel biosensing-membrane for glucose detection and monitoring

Researchers have developed a three-dimensional mesoporous biosensing-membrane with neighborhood nanostructures, exhibiting excellent sensitivity and long-term stability. The membrane uses a ternary coating to assemble Prussian blue and glucose oxidase, improving cascade reaction efficiency and sensing stability.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 14, 2023

Designing synthetic receptors for precise cell control

Researchers have developed a novel computational approach to design protein-peptide ligand binding complexes that can trigger complex cellular responses. The new biosensors can sense flexible compounds and provide optimal sensing of molecular signals, potentially leading to improved therapeutic applications.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2023
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.

Novel living yeast-based dual biosensor for detecting peptide variants

Researchers developed a living yeast-based dual biosensor that can detect peptide variants with a visible readout, enhancing the capabilities of their original biosensor. The new sensor can distinguish between specific peptide variants using a protease-cleaving catalytic enzyme.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2023

Antibody alternatives for biosensing

Researchers developed an electronic biosensor using DNA aptamers to detect biomarkers in whole blood samples. The biosensor successfully detected clinically relevant levels of a marker protein for cardiovascular disease without further sample preparation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023