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Complete filling of batches of nanopipettes

Researchers at Kanazawa University developed a method to fill nanopipettes using a temperature gradient, achieving complete filling of a batch with pore diameters below 10 nm. The 'air bubble' that typically remains near the pipette's pore end can be removed by applying the temperature gradient.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 8, 2020

Solving a combinatorial quandary

Lehigh University professor Brian Chen is developing software that can predict protein interactions, reducing the need for human interpretation. The software has already successfully demonstrated the ability to predict something completely unknown in a collaboration with Rutgers University.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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