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New polymer mixture creates ultra-sensitive heat sensor

Scientists at Linköping University have developed an ultra-sensitive heat sensor based on a polymer mixture that uses ions as charge carriers, resulting in a signal 100 times stronger than traditional materials. The new material has potential applications in wound healing, electronic skin, and smart buildings.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2019

Reducing water consumption in mining

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have developed a new procedure to optimize water usage in mineral beneficiation technology. By using process simulation, the team was able to significantly reduce water consumption, from 4,000 litres per tonne of ore to below 1,000 litres per tonne. This innovation has the potential t...

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateMar 28, 2019

Sweat holds most promise for noninvasive testing

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have created a continuous-monitoring device that tests sweat as effectively as blood, providing data over time to track health trends. This breakthrough technology holds promise for noninvasive testing and personalized care, paving the way for more accurate diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 15, 2019

Machines whisper our secrets

A team of researchers at the University of California, Riverside, has developed a method to reconstruct what a researcher is doing with a DNA synthesizer by recording its sounds. The technique uses machine learning algorithms to identify patterns in the sound signals and can detect the type of DNA being produced with high accuracy.

Longer siesta on bright days

Research by neurobiologists at the University of Würzburg reveals that high-intensity light extends sleep duration and delays evening activity in Drosophila. The study's findings suggest a molecular mechanism involving photo receptors and neuropeptides that regulate the circadian clock.

Blast to the future

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory are developing a machine learning-based framework called BLAST to accelerate and simplify materials modeling and simulation. This software will enable companies to quickly perform molecular dynamics simulations needed for new material vetting, with applications in polymers and steel alloys.

Measuring the nanoworld

A global study standardizes FRET measurement technology to pinpoint molecular distances at the nanoscale. This breakthrough enhances understanding of molecular machines and processes that underpin life.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 4, 2018

If military robot falls, it can get itself up

Scientists at U.S. Army Research Laboratory and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory develop software to analyze a robot's ability to self-right from any overturned orientation. The team evaluates the Advanced Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robotic System and determines it can right itself on level ground regardless of its ...

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateAug 28, 2018

Novel sensors could enable smarter textiles

Researchers at the University of Delaware developed flexible carbon nanotube composite coatings on various fibers, enabling the measurement of a wide range of pressure. The technology has potential applications in smart garments, sports medicine, post-surgical recovery, and assessing movement disorders in pediatric populations.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 16, 2018

Chips, light and coding moves the front line in beating bacteria

A multidisciplinary team of scientists from OIST has developed a novel tool to monitor biofilm growth, allowing for more efficient testing of replacement antibiotics. By using nanostructured chips and localized surface plasmon resonance, the researchers can observe bacterial cells growing without disrupting their test subjects.

Novel optics for ultrafast cameras create new possibilities for imaging

MIT researchers developed novel optics that capture images based on the timing of reflecting light inside the optics. This allows for new capabilities in time- or depth-sensitive cameras, such as capturing a trillion-frame-per-second video. The new optics architecture includes semireflective parallel mirrors that reduce focal length by...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 13, 2018