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Tiny quantum sensors watch materials transform under pressure

Scientists at Berkeley Lab developed a tool to harness atomic flaws in diamonds to create ultrasensitive sensors for measuring electric and magnetic fields. They successfully measured phase transitions and pressure-induced phase changes, opening up new avenues for materials research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

Site search: A digital approach to proteins and cancer

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a digital approach called Site search that enables scientists to study specific protein sites linked to serious diseases. The software, NmrLineGuru, supports fast simulation and analysis of protein interactions with drugs.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 11, 2019
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.

Chip-based optical sensor detects cancer biomarker in urine

A new chip-based sensor can detect very low levels of a cancer protein biomarker in urine, paving the way for non-invasive and inexpensive disease diagnosis and monitoring. The sensor's high sensitivity enables detection of minute biomarker concentrations, making it a promising tool for personalized medicine.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateDec 4, 2019

Mental practice may improve golfers' putting performance

Researchers found that kinaesthetic imagery ability enhances golf putting performance, and mental practice can improve a golfer's putting ability even if they already have a good feel for the game. The study suggests that this technique may reduce a golfer's handicap and is crucial in determining earnings on the PGA Tour.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·DateNov 27, 2019

Smart buildings face challenges but have plenty of potential

Researchers identified 120 publications on occupant-centric control (OCC), but only 42 studies included field implementation. OCC's reliance on data raises technological and privacy issues, including secure data storage and whole-building approaches.

SourceConcordia University·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateNov 20, 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.

UCLouvain strengthens connectivity of 1 in 8 of world's smartphones

UCLouvain's research developed Multipath TCP to support expanding global internet traffic, improving Wi-Fi and mobile network switching. The protocol is used by 800 million iPhones and has won international awards, enhancing connectivity in rural areas and offering a win-win for subscribers and telecom operators.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·DateNov 18, 2019

Magnetic skin ensures the force is with you

Researchers at KAUST have developed a wearable, flexible magnetic skin that can remotely control switches and keyboards without wired connections. The innovative technology has potential applications in human-computer interfaces for people with paralysis, gaming, sleep pattern analysis, and noninvasive biomedical device localization.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateNov 12, 2019

A cheaper way to scale up atomic layer deposition

Scientists at EPFL have developed a cheaper way to scale up atomic layer deposition, reducing costs and increasing precision. The new liquid-phase method uses standard lab equipment and achieves coatings that are not possible with gas-phase ALD.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 11, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Illinois researchers to develop smartphone diagnostics lit for infectious diseases

Researchers at the University of Illinois are developing a smartphone-based diagnostic system that can detect pathogens in less than 30 minutes using a single drop of blood. The system, which will be handheld and cost less than $10, has the potential to provide fast and affordable results for patients in developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateNov 8, 2019

Intuitive in the virtual reality

Researchers developed an electronic sensor that can process both touchless and tactile stimuli, enabling seamless interaction in virtual reality scenarios. The sensor's flexibility allows it to register a clear shift from touchless to tactile interaction, allowing for selective control of physical and virtual objects.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 29, 2019

DESI's 5000 eyes open as Kitt Peak Telescope prepares to map space and time

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) has begun testing its capabilities, capturing light from distant galaxies and preparing to map 35 million galaxies across 1/3 of the sky. DESI aims to study 10 million stars in our galaxy, the Milky Way, tackling one of physics' most profound problems: the nature of dark energy.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateOct 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.

Applying structural monitoring technology to the human spine

A team of researchers has developed an implantable, self-powered spinal fusion sensor to monitor the health of the spine after surgery. The sensor will provide continuous and long-term monitoring, eliminating the need for costly imaging appointments and exposing patients to radiation.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 26, 2019

Scientists in New York City discover a valuable method to track rats

Researchers developed a new tracking method for urban rats using pheromones, revealing sex-specific scent preferences. This finding could aid in urban wildlife management and development of novel control tools, such as bait deployment or immuno-contraceptives.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Urban Ecology·DateSep 17, 2019

Measuring ethanol's deadly twin

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a handheld device that can detect methanol in alcoholic beverages and diagnose poisoning by analyzing exhaled breath. The device uses a small metal oxide sensor to distinguish between methanol and ethanol, with detection limits down to the legal limit.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 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.

Turbo-charging pharmaceutical biotechnology simulations

A new simulation software aims to enhance process knowledge and speed up biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Christian Witz's software shortens simulation times from months to hours, enabling more efficient troubleshooting and insights into processes.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateSep 12, 2019

Can a high-tech sniffer help keep us safe?

Researchers developed a portable PLOT-cryo device to screen cargo for hazardous materials. The instrument can detect low concentrations of chemicals and requires minimal sniffing time, making it suitable for busy port inspections.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateSep 11, 2019

Artificial intelligence used to recognize primate faces in the wild

A new AI software developed by University of Oxford scientists can recognize individual chimpanzee faces in the wild, allowing researchers to track behavior over long periods. This technology has potential for conservation efforts and animal behavior research, offering a sustainable solution to monitor species.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 4, 2019
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.

Science to reveal how long highway construction should actually take

A Purdue University team is developing sensors to track concrete strength development in real time, allowing for more precise data on when traffic can use new concrete pavement. This technology has the potential to save millions of dollars each year and reduce traffic by providing engineers with accurate information on concrete maturity.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 29, 2019

Stretchable wireless sensor could monitor healing of cerebral aneurysms

A stretchable wireless sensor can monitor the healing of cerebral aneurysms by detecting changes in blood flow. The sensor, fabricated using aerosol jet 3D printing, can be seamlessly integrated onto existing medical stents and measures an incoming blood flow to determine how well the aneurysm is healing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 28, 2019

Engineers make transistors and electronic devices entirely from thread

Researchers at Tufts University developed transistors made from linen thread, enabling the creation of fully flexible devices with superior flexibility and material diversity. The device can be woven into fabric or worn on the skin, allowing for seamless integration with biological tissues.

SourceTufts University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 20, 2019

Wearable sensors detect what's in your sweat

Researchers developed wearable skin sensors that can detect sweat rate and electrolytes, providing real-time updates on health problems such as dehydration or fatigue. The sensors were found to be reliable and reproducible, enabling continuous data collection from different parts of the body.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 16, 2019

Monitoring the Matterhorn with millions of data points

The PermaSense project has recorded a unique 10-year record of high-resolution data on the Hörnli ridge of the Matterhorn, offering a better understanding of processes that can lead to rock destabilization. The data set includes measurements of temperature, seismic activity, and deformation of the mountain ridge.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEarth System Science Data·DateAug 13, 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.

The first metal-organic coordination polymers were synthesized at the Samara Polytech

Scientists at Samara Polytech have synthesized the first metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with unique properties, including magnetic susceptibility, luminescence, and electrical conductivity. The resulting nanostructured materials demonstrate record sorption characteristics for various volatile substances.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalChemical Science·DateAug 13, 2019

UBC-developed sensor provides next-generation ice detection

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a new sensor that can detect the precise moment when ice begins to form on a surface, using microwave resonators. The device has high sensitivity, low power consumption, and is easy to fabricate, making it ideal for improving airline safety and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateAug 8, 2019

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, August 2019

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed dynamic vision sensors that can interpret live information in real-time, revolutionizing robotics and autonomous vehicle sensing. Additionally, researchers are using additive manufacturing techniques to unlock new potential in tungsten for fusion energy, while also ...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 1, 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.

Technological developments in radiation detectors enhance global nuclear security

Researchers identify hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite as prime compound candidate for room temperature semiconductor radiation detectors, offering cost efficiency and rapid synthesis. Improved detectors will enable better detection, identification, and prevention of radioactive threats, enhancing global nuclear security.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 30, 2019

Making blockchain transactions secure and private

TU Wien's blockchain research lab has developed a software tool called Coinshuffle to collect and merge transactions, creating anonymous Bitcoin transactions. The lab also solved scalability issues in Lightning Networks, enabling private transactions without compromising security.

SourceVienna University of Technology·DateJul 25, 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.

New sensor could shake up earthquake response efforts

A new optical sensor developed at Berkeley Lab can provide reliable information on building damage immediately after an earthquake. The Discrete Diode Position Sensor (DDPS) measures interstory drift and will speed up efforts to safely assess, repair, and reoccupy buildings post-quake.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJul 11, 2019

Empire State Development awards Center For Advanced Technology designation To CUNY

The City University of New York (CUNY) has been awarded a Center for Advanced Technology designation by Empire State Development, with nearly $8.8 million in funding over ten years. The new center will focus on developing next-generation sensor systems and applications, driving economic development and job creation in New York State.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·DateJun 27, 2019

Dung beetles use wind compass when the sun is high

Researchers discovered that dung beetles use a wind compass to navigate when the sun is high, complementing their sun compass. This flexible navigation system enables precise direction-finding at all times.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2019
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.

UTA working to develop longwave infrared photonic device technology

A UTA research team is working with the Army Research Laboratory to develop nanophotonic devices that can capture and release light in the longwave infrared spectral region. These devices have potential applications in thermal imaging, medical diagnostics, chemical analyses, and environmental monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 21, 2019

Using prevalent technologies and 'Internet of Things' data for atmospheric science

Researchers review existing works on using IoT and crowdsourced data for atmospheric research, highlighting its potential to improve weather forecasting and monitoring environmental processes. The innovative approach can provide valuable insights into atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and air pollution.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 13, 2019

Food freshness sensors could replace 'use-by' dates to cut food waste

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed affordable and biodegradable sensors that can detect spoilage gases in meat and fish products, reducing food waste and plastic pollution. The sensors, called PEGS, can be read on smartphones and are cheaper to produce than existing sensors.

SourceImperial College London·JournalACS Sensors·DateJun 5, 2019
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.

New 3D-printed technology lowers cost of common medical test

Researchers developed a 3D-printed pipette-tip test that leverages the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The new technology significantly reduces testing costs and time, allowing for faster diagnosis and potentially making medical testing available in rural or remote areas.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMay 22, 2019

Dog-like robot made by students jumps, flips and trots

The Stanford Student Robotics club developed an affordable, open-source quadruped robot called Stanford Doggo, which can perform acrobatic tricks and navigate challenging terrain. The robot's cost is estimated under $3,000 and all components can be bought online.

SourceStanford University·DateMay 20, 2019

A new sensor for light, heat and touch

Researchers at Linköping University developed a sensor that combines pyroelectric and thermoelectric effects with nano-optical phenomena, enabling rapid and stable detection of temperature variations from warm objects or sunlight. The sensor is also pressure-sensitive and can distinguish between different materials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 14, 2019
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.

Software library to serve for faster chemical reaction processing

A new software library CGRtools has been developed to improve chemical reaction processing by predicting reaction characteristics, finding optimal conditions, and detecting errors. The library is rich in functionality, supporting molecules and reactions as objects and offering transparent class inheritance.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateMay 13, 2019

Sensor can detect spoiled milk before opening

Researchers developed a sensor that can detect spoiled milk by reacting to gas produced by bacterial growth, changing color in the process. The breakthrough aims to improve food safety and shelf life by providing a more accurate expiration date system.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFood Control·DateMay 6, 2019

Tiny droplets open the doors to in-flight imaging of proteins

Researchers have developed a new instrument to create nanodroplets capable of delivering biological samples free from contaminants. This breakthrough allows for the first-time imaging of smaller proteins and structures, advancing the quest to understand dynamic biomolecules.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 3, 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.

Sand tiger sharks return to shipwrecks off N.C. coast

A new study reveals that female sand tiger sharks exhibit site fidelity to shipwrecks off the North Carolina coast, using them as rest stops or potential mates. The finding suggests that the wrecks are crucial habitats for this endangered shark species, which experienced significant population drops in the last century.

SourceDuke University·JournalEcology·DateApr 22, 2019

Pin-sized sensor could bring chemical ID to smartphone-sized devices

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a compact spectrometer that can integrate with smartphone cameras, enabling real-time chemical identification. The device boasts high resolution and low fabrication costs, paving the way for enhanced sensors in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Harnessing photonics for at-home disease detection

Researchers developed an ultra-thin optical chip that detects biomolecules in a sample and determines their location using metasurfaces. The technology uses image analysis to count biomolecules one by one and identify trends, demonstrating its potential for personalized medicine.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 2, 2019