Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Building bacteria to keep us well

Researchers have genetically engineered bacteria to detect specific chemicals in the gut, which can help maintain balanced neurotransmitter levels. The bacteria, called Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, produce enzymes that degrade or synthesize target chemicals, potentially alleviating mental health issues.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021

Rutgers researchers find links to genetic disorders in walking patterns

Researchers at Rutgers University have linked Fragile X and SHANK3 deletion syndrome, both associated with autism and health problems, to walking patterns. The study used motion-sensored sneakers to detect gait problems 15-20 years before clinical diagnosis, offering a potential framework for early intervention.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 22, 2021
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.

Tracking muscle activity with clothes on your back

Researchers developed a wearable, biocompatible, and low-cost biosensor that measures electromyography signals in muscles. The sensor uses a gold-silver nanocomposite printed onto fabric, providing a comfortable and effective way to track muscle activity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateSep 28, 2021

Ultrasensitive detection of endocrine disruptors via superfine plasmonic spectral combs

A team of scientists developed a simple-to-implement plasmonic optical fiber biosensing platform to detect estrogenic endocrine disruptors. The platform can detect EEs down to 1.5 ng L^-1 estradiol equivalent concentration, the lowest limit of detection for any estrogen receptors-based detection reported to date.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 23, 2021

Antibiotic levels measurable in breath for first time

A team of engineers and biotechnologists has developed a biosensor that measures antibiotic levels in breath, mirroring blood concentrations. This breakthrough enables on-site, personalized dosing to minimize resistant bacteria strains.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 21, 2021

Aptasensors helpful in detection of mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemosensors·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 8, 2021

Optical techniques offer fast, efficient COVID-19 detection

Researchers developed lab-on-a-chip optical biosensors for real-time COVID-19 detection, overcoming low viral load challenges. These sensors utilize light beam interactions to detect viruses, enabling faster diagnosis and controlling outbreaks.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateSep 7, 2021
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.

Making patient care easier: Self-powered diaper sensors that monitor urine sugar levels

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Biosensor permits ultra-fast and cheap detection of SARS-CoV-2

A new genosensor, developed by a Brazilian research team, can detect the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva or other body fluids with high sensitivity. The device can analyze samples in 30 minutes for a cost of less than $1 per genosensor.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·DateAug 10, 2021

Biosensors: Transforming the diagnosis of infections in newborns

Researchers review advancements in biosensing technologies for neonatal sepsis diagnosis, highlighting the need for faster and more accurate methods. Biosensors offer a promising solution, detecting multiple parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and accuracy.

SourceShoolini University·JournalClinica Chimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Amperometric biosensors used to control diclofenac content in food

Researchers developed amperometric biosensors to determine diclofenac levels in food, improving detection limits and accuracy. The study found that diclofenac inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, enabling its detection in milk and other dairy products.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Analytical Chemistry·DateJul 5, 2021

Face masks that can diagnose COVID-19

Researchers have developed wearable biosensors that can be integrated into standard face masks to detect SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens. The technology, called wFDCF, involves synthetic biology reactions embedded in fabrics, providing rapid detection with accuracy comparable to PCR tests.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 28, 2021

Printable Purdue biosensor simultaneously records, makes images of tissues and organs

A new biosensor developed by Purdue University can record and image tissues and organs simultaneously during surgery, allowing for accurate localization of critical regions. The sensor's unique design and soft bio-inks enable seamless interfacing with the curvilinear surface of organs, making it suitable for various sizes and shapes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2021

Thin, stretchable biosensors could make surgery safer

A research team from Los Alamos National Laboratory and Purdue University developed bio-inks for biosensors that can localize critical regions in tissues and organs during surgery. The new biosensors allow for simultaneous recording and imaging, which could be useful during heart surgery to guide surgical interventions.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2021
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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIST study suggests how to build a better 'nanopore' biosensor

Researchers at NIST and VCU have developed a new approach to building better 'nanopore' biosensors by measuring the energy required for molecules to interact with these sensors. This laser-based heating method enables faster and more accurate measurements, potentially revolutionizing disease detection and treatment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2021

New biosensor makes control hormone auxin visible in cells

Scientists have developed a novel sensor that makes auxin visible in living plants, providing new insights into plant development and growth. The sensor allows for real-time detection of changing environmental conditions and the influences of external stimuli.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Study could help develop biosensors for non-invasive diagnosis of diseases

A study from Brazil's University of São Paulo used self-assembled molecular monolayers to create biosensors for detecting the gene PCA3, which is specific to prostate cancer cells. The technique can also be used to diagnose infectious diseases like COVID-19, offering a non-invasive alternative to current methods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMar 22, 2021
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.

A biosensor for measuring extracellular hydrogen peroxide concentrations

Researchers developed a sensor to quantify hydrogen peroxide concentrations near cell membranes, providing insights into cellular processes and potential therapeutic strategies. The biosensor uses surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy to detect changes in molecular signatures.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 8, 2021

Attachable skin monitors that wick the sweat away?

A new silicone-based patch fabrication technique fabricates thin patches that rapidly wick water away from the skin, reducing skin irritation caused by wearable biosensors. The technique was developed to improve comfort and performance of wearable bioelectronics.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2021
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.

Biosensors monitor plant well-being in real time

Researchers at Linköping University developed implantable biosensors that monitor sugar levels in plants in real-time. This technology has the potential to optimize crop growth and quality, as well as guide the production of new plant varieties that can thrive in challenging conditions.

SourceLinköping University·JournaliScience·DateFeb 11, 2021

Biosensors to detect P. jirovecii, responsible for Pneumocystis pneumonia

Researchers developed more sensitive and efficient biosensors to detect specific sequences corresponding to P. jirovecii using nanotechnology and capture probes. These sensors can detect the fungus in real time without prior amplification steps, enabling a reliable diagnosis of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalJournal of Fungi·DateFeb 5, 2021

Biosensors require robust antifouling protection

Despite advances in biosensor antifouling approaches, further development is needed to increase our arsenal of robust antifouling protection methods. Researchers have developed various techniques such as physical barriers, chemical treatments and selective membranelike coatings to protect biosensors from fouling.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateFeb 2, 2021

Improved understanding and treatment of inflammatory diseases

The SciFiMed project develops a multiplex detection system to examine the functional activity of seven complement factor H related proteins in patient samples. This technique helps diagnose inflammatory diseases such as macular degeneration with higher accuracy.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·DateJan 13, 2021
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.

Cracking the code of a shapeshifting protein

Scientists discovered molecular basis for how shapeshifting immune system protein XCL1 evolved, outlining principles for designing metamorphic proteins as transformers. These principles can be used to develop biosensors, build nanoscale machines, and even create therapeutics.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2021

A semiconductor chip detects antigen concentrations at 1 parts per quadrillion molar mass

A semiconductor chip has been developed to detect antigen concentrations as low as 1 part per quadrillion molar mass, enabling ultra-sensitive detection on a portable scale. This technology uses organic nanosheets and can detect biomolecules in real-time, paving the way for quick disease diagnosis and telemedicine applications.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020

Affinity vs. cooperativity

UC Santa Barbara researchers develop a method to increase both affinity and cooperativity in aptamer-based biosensors, allowing for fine-tuned regulation of receptor properties. This approach enables precision biosensing applications, such as detecting low concentrations of target molecules like chemotherapy drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2020

This red light means 'go' for medical discoveries

Scientists at UVA Health System created a simpler, more effective method to convert green fluorescent biosensors to red, improving their ability to monitor multiple targets and peer into tissues. This innovation has the potential to accelerate research in fields such as insulin secretion control and neural activity patterns.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 20, 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.

Lab-on-paper strip: Small, inexpensive platform for diagnosing tropical fevers

A team of scientists has developed LAMDA, a compact lab-on-paper strip that can diagnose mosquito-borne diseases in under an hour. The device uses Loop-mediated isothermal amplification to detect viral RNA and has great potential for resource-limited clinics and point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateSep 11, 2020

Pot of gold engineered to help with early disease detection

The new diagnostic technique allows direct detection of disease-specific miRNA, breaking through current limitations in early disease detection. The technology is expected to be available to medical practitioners in the next five years, offering a cost-effective solution for rapid and early diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Protocols·DateAug 24, 2020

Lipid-Oligonucleotides (LONs) --- Promising materials for bioapplications

LONs have shown outstanding properties in designing membrane-anchored biosensors and synthetic membrane channels due to their information-transfer and self-assembly abilities. They also have great potential in making contributions to developing new therapies and controllable nanoreactors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 20, 2020

Watching changes in plant metabolism -- live

Researchers at the University of Münster used a new method to monitor plant metabolic processes in real-time, revealing key mechanisms in energy metabolism and their connection to environmental factors. The study provides new insights into plant responses to stressors like light, temperature, and pest infestation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 14, 2020

Liquid metal synthesis for better piezoelectrics: Atomically-thin tin-monosulfide

A new study applies liquid-metal synthesis to create atomically-thin tin-monosulfide with excellent electronic and piezoelectric properties, enabling flexible nanogenerators for wearable electronics and biosensors. The resulting material displays high durability and flexibility, making it suitable for commercial implementation.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2020
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.

BU researchers design artificial genes to sense cellular responses to drugs

Boston University researchers have developed artificial genes called biosensors that can detect changes in signaling molecules, which are molecular on/off switches inside cells. These biosensors have the potential to improve drug development by allowing researchers to study G-proteins more accurately and easily.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJul 6, 2020

New optical biosensor system may help round-the-clock management of gout

Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a minimally invasive biosensor system to monitor urate levels, which can help patients with gout manage their symptoms better. The technology uses benzoporphyrins and is designed for personal management of gout, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSensors·DateMay 11, 2020
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.

Blood and sweat: Wearable medical sensors will get major sensitivity boost

Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology propose a radically new biosensor design that could increase detector sensitivity many times over, making it suitable for mobile and wearable devices. The new layout aims to make biosensors easier to manufacture, cheaper, and more responsive.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalSensors·DateFeb 13, 2020

Plastic biosensor finds sweet success

Researchers at KAUST have developed a plastic biosensor that can power itself using glucose, enabling continuous monitoring of key health indicators like blood sugar levels. The device uses an electron-transporting polymer and glucose oxidase enzyme to drive its circuitry, offering an ideal alternative to current implantable devices.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 16, 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.

Pacifier biosensor could help monitor newborn health

Researchers have developed a pacifier-based biosensor that tracks real-time glucose levels in saliva, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of newborns. The device could help diagnose and treat diabetes in infants, providing an alternative to continuous glucose monitoring currently only available in hospitals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 23, 2019

Big data technique reveals previously unknown capabilities of common materials

A new big data technique has revealed the previously unknown properties of nickel, enabling applications in data storage, biosensors, and quantum computing. Researchers discovered that nickel can produce a huge magnetic field when made into single-crystal nanowires and subjected to mechanical energy.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateOct 18, 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.

Modified lactides promise new implementations in pharmacology and catalysis

The study introduced macrocyclic rigid structures that improve polymer properties, allowing for the creation of hybrids with biopolymers and self-assembling capabilities. These hybrids were applied in prototypes of chemical and biochemical sensors, offering good prospects for creating new smart drugs and systems.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalFrontiers in Chemistry·DateAug 15, 2019

Will your future computer be made using bacteria?

Scientists have developed a method to produce graphene materials using bacteria, overcoming a major hurdle in adopting this revolutionary nanomaterial. The bacterially-produced graphene material retains its amazing properties, making it suitable for innovative technologies such as field-effect transistor biosensors and conductive inks.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalChemistryOpen·DateJul 10, 2019

Take two E. coli and call me in the morning

Researchers developed a bacterial memory circuit that can detect and report disease signals in the gut, enabling non-invasive diagnosis. The system uses E. coli bacteria with synthetic trigger elements to identify potential biosensors, showing promise for long-term digestive health monitoring and treatment.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalmSystems·DateJun 28, 2019
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.

A rapid, easy-to-use DNA amplification method at 37°C

Researchers have developed L-TEAM, a low-temperature DNA amplification method that works at body temperature, enabling highly sensitive nucleic acid detection. The method reduces non-specific amplification errors, making it suitable for disease diagnostics and biosensors.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·DateJun 14, 2019

Wristbands do a health check while you work out

A wearable system developed at KAUST can detect glucose and lactate levels in sweat, providing insights into blood sugar problems and oxygen deficiencies. The device uses a stretchy patch with MXene-based electrodes that can be repeatedly swapped out for improved detection accuracy.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalSmall·DateApr 25, 2019