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Butterfly wings inspiring next-gen technological innovations

Researchers have successfully fabricated various sensor and energy systems inspired by butterfly wings, including thermal, medical, and vapor sensors, anti-counterfeit security devices, and photovoltaic systems. These systems demonstrate competitive efficiency and performance to similar systems inspired by other natural species.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 14, 2020

Algorithmic autos

Researchers at the University of Delaware have optimized vehicle dynamics and powertrain operation using connectivity and automation to reduce stop-and-go driving and travel time while ensuring energy efficiency. The algorithms achieved a 30% increase in energy efficiency in real-world testing, surpassing simulation predictions.

Portable, reusable test for COVID-19

University of Utah engineer Massood Tabib-Azar has developed a portable, reusable test for COVID-19 that works with cellphones. The sensor uses just a drop of saliva and can produce results in a minute, and is designed to be reused multiple times by destroying the previous sample.

Software flaws often first reported on social media networks, PNNL researchers find

Research shows that software vulnerabilities are more likely to be discussed on social media before being reported on official databases, highlighting the potential for early warning systems. The study also found that nearly all commercial codebases contain at least one vulnerability, with an average of 64 vulnerabilities per codebase.

Two is better than one

A team of scientists has developed a new 2D catalyst that can improve the efficiency of water purification using hydrogen peroxide. The catalyst, composed of two co-catalysts on one nanosheet, was designed to increase the efficiency of the process without additional chemical treatment.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2020

Graphene heterostructures with black phosphorus, arsenic enable new infrared detectors

Researchers developed photodetectors using graphene layers with varying proportions of black phosphorus and arsenic, achieving lower dark currents and high photosensitivity. These sensors can enhance the performance of infrared telescopes and replace existing detectors, benefiting various scientific and technological applications.

What can you do with spiral graph? Help understand how galaxies evolve

The Spiral Graph project uses a tracing method to accurately measure the winding of spiral galaxies' arms. This approach outperforms automated methods and can estimate parameters like black hole mass and dark matter content. By enlisting citizen scientists, researchers aim to better understand galaxy evolution.

SourceNorth Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 13, 2020

Pill-sized 'heater' could increase accessibility in diagnosing infectious disease

Researchers developed a pill-sized 'heater' that regulates temperature of biological samples through different stages of diagnostic testing, increasing accuracy and accessibility. The device can be used in various settings to detect viruses without electricity, reducing the need for specialized training and costly lab equipment.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2020