Add BrightSurf on Google Email

When the world of nanotechnology and microbreweries meet

A Quebec research team has successfully synthesized carbon quantum dots from brewery waste, offering a biocompatible alternative to traditional materials. The eco-responsible approach uses microbrewery waste as a source material, reducing the need for pure chemicals and toxins.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalRSC Advances·DateJun 22, 2022

Sniffing out your identity with breath biometrics

A team of researchers from Kyushu University has developed an olfactory sensor capable of identifying individuals by analyzing the compounds in their breath. The system, combined with machine learning, achieved an average accuracy of over 97% in authenticating up to 20 individuals.

SourceKyushu University·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Plant stress transformed into rapid tests for dangerous chemicals

Researchers have developed innovative tests for multiple chemicals using plant-based molecules that can detect synthetic cannabinoids and banned pesticides. The system uses a simple and inexpensive approach to quickly signal the presence of nearly 20 different chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 21, 2022

Quantum sensor can detect electromagnetic signals of any frequency

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to enable quantum sensors to detect any arbitrary frequency without losing nanoscale spatial resolution. The new system, called a quantum mixer, injects a second frequency into the detector using microwaves, enabling detection of signals with desired frequencies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 21, 2022

Blood pressure e-tattoo promises continuous, mobile monitoring

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M have developed an electronic tattoo that can deliver continuous blood pressure measurements with accuracy exceeding most available options. The device uses graphene bioimpedance analysis to take precise readings, promising a significant improvement in mobile health monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 20, 2022
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.

‘E-nose’ sniffs out mixtures of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Researchers have developed an electric nose using porous metal-organic framework films to distinguish between xylene isomers in mixtures. The MOF-based e-nose achieved 86% and 96% accuracy for detecting xylene at low concentrations, paving the way for improved environmental monitoring and diagnostic health testing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateJun 8, 2022

Nano-sensor detects pesticides on fruit in minutes

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed nano-sensors that can detect pesticide residues on fruit surfaces in just five minutes. The sensors use flame-sprayed nanoparticles made from silver to increase the signal of chemicals, overcoming high production costs and limited batch-to-batch reproducibility.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 7, 2022

Breakthrough paves way for photonic sensing at the ultimate quantum limit

A team of physicists has developed a way to perform high precision measurements without relying on special entangled states of light. The breakthrough uses ring resonators, which can be mass manufactured using standard processes, and enables the creation of chip-scale photonic sensors operating at the quantum limit.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 7, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Tracking sleep with a self-powering smart pillow

A new study presents a self-powering smart pillow that tracks head movement during sleep using triboelectric nanogenerators. This system could improve the accuracy of sleep monitoring and have uses beyond tracking sleep, such as monitoring patients with cervical spondylosis or detecting early warning signs for falls.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 2, 2022

MIT engineers boost signals from fluorescent sensors

The MIT team developed wavelength-induced frequency filtering (WIFF), a novel photonic technique that dramatically improves fluorescent sensor signals. This allows for the implantation of sensors as deep as 5.5 cm in tissue, enabling applications such as tracking specific molecules inside the brain or monitoring drug effects.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 30, 2022
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.

Secrets of tree hyraxes in Kenya uncovered with new research techniques

Researchers from the University of Helsinki used new techniques to observe tree hyraxes in Kenya's Taita Hills, finding that they are social animals with specific habitat preferences. The study estimated a population size of no more than 2,000–4,000 individuals, shedding light on the behavior and conservation of these unique mammals.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 25, 2022

Acoustic sensors pinpoint shooters in urban setting #ASA182

Researchers developed an approach to predict shooter localization accuracy using geometric considerations, sensor characteristics, and urban environment. The prediction is represented as an ellipse-shaped area around the true shooter location, with smaller areas indicating higher accuracy.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 23, 2022

Staying flexible

Scientists at Osaka University have invented a flexible sheet sensor that can detect changes in water temperature and presence of contaminants without disrupting the flow. The technology uses an embedded carbon nanotube film as a photodetector layer, enabling continuous monitoring and non-disruptive sampling.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New study of train travel pre- and during Covid-19 suggests three ways to make commuting less stressful

A new study by Dr. Marin Marinov at Aston University proposes three solutions to make train commuting less stressful: purchasing tickets on smartphones, removing ticket gates and installing sensors, and implementing one-way flow systems in station concourses. These changes could reduce queuing times and promote social distancing.

SourceAston University·JournalUrban Rail Transit·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 13, 2022

Teaching underwater stingray robots to swim faster and with greater precision using machine learning

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design developed a new machine learning approach to model underwater robot dynamics, allowing for efficient swimming in complex environments. The approach, published in IEEE-RAL, uses deep neural networks to predict required flapping motions for a set of given propulsive force targets.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMay 11, 2022

Live monitoring of brain metabolism with fluorescence

A new sensor technology allows for real-time monitoring of lactate levels in the brain, providing insights into energy metabolism and potential applications in cancer detection. The sensors corrected for hemodynamic artifacts using MRI-informed corrections enable accurate cell-specific lactate level recordings.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMay 10, 2022

Wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system developed for ammonia-energy ships

Researchers have developed a full-set wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system for ammonia-energy ships, which includes a honeycomb triboelectric nanogenerator-based power generation system and a carbon nanotube doped polypyrrole-based ammonia detection system. The system exhibited good performance with low detection limits...

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNano Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 6, 2022
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.

‘Smart’ diaper for bedside urine testing

A flexible sensor embedded in a diaper measures multiple components in urine, sharing results over Bluetooth for fast bedside analyses. The technology has potential to provide quick and painless urinalysis for incontinent, elderly or infant patients.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMay 5, 2022

A new wearable technology — for plants (video)

Researchers have created a wearable sensor for plant leaves that wirelessly transmits data to a smartphone app, allowing for early detection of water loss and remote monitoring of drought stress. The device has the potential to save resources and increase yields by providing reliable data on plant health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 4, 2022

Future wearable health tech could measure gases released from skin

A new study suggests that a wearable sensor can detect the gases released from a person's skin to monitor biomarkers related to metabolic disorders. The technology has the potential to track long-term changes in metabolic rates and could also be used to detect signs of liver disease.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2022

Engineers at UBC get under the skin of ionic skin

Researchers at UBC create ionic skins made of flexible hydrogels that use ions to carry an electrical charge. These hydrogels can generate voltages when touched, producing a piezoionic effect that allows them to detect pressure and other stimuli. The technology has potential applications in prosthetics, wearable sensors, and body impla...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022
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.

Electronics can grow on trees thanks to nanocellulose paper semiconductors

Osaka University researchers have created a nanocellulose paper semiconductor with 3D network structures that can be tuned for use in various sustainable electronic devices. The treatment process allows for heat-induced conductivity without damaging the nanostructure, enabling flexible macro-scale structures and detailed designs.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2022

Sapphire fiber could enable cleaner energy and air-travel

Researchers have developed a sensor made of sapphire fibre that can withstand temperatures over 2000°C, enabling significant improvements in efficiency and emission reduction in aerospace and power generation. The technology has potential applications in space and fusion power industries.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022

Nanoparticles could enable a more sensitive and durable rapid COVID-19 test

Researchers have developed a rapid COVID-19 test that uses molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles to detect SARS-CoV-2. The new test is more sensitive and works under extreme conditions than existing antibody-based tests, with preliminary results indicating it can detect a 6,000-times lower amount of the virus.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateApr 13, 2022

Innovative technology will use smart sensors to ensure vaccine safety

Researchers developed innovative smart sensors to test new vaccines, revealing significant discrepancies between subjective self-reports and objective measurements. The study found that side effects escalate over the first 48 hours and then stabilize, with parameters returning to pre-vaccination levels.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateApr 10, 2022
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.

UGA team develops faster, cheaper COVID tests

The UGA team developed a rapid test for COVID-19 with high sensitivity and specificity, detecting the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. The test has a detection time of less than 10 minutes and can detect all COVID-19 variants.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·DateApr 7, 2022

The side effects of quantum error correction and how to cope with them

Researchers found that quantum error correction can distort the output of quantum sensors and lead to unphysical results due to non-commuting actions. However, they provide procedures for restoring correct results through post-processing and devising ideal sensing protocols.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 6, 2022

With a whiff ‘e-nose’ can sense fine whisky

A new e-nose prototype, NOS.E, can distinguish between six whiskies by brand names, regions, and styles in under four minutes, with 100% accuracy for region detection and 96.15% for brand name identification. The technology has applications beyond whisky, including counterfeiting detection in perfume and wine.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022

Control of MEMS lidar mirrors enables steady pictures in shaky environments

A team of researchers has developed a MEMS scanning lidar that can detect objects reliably even in shaky environments. The long-range MEMS lidar prototype uses a digital controller to suppress errors caused by vibrations, allowing for stable 3D imaging and object detection.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateMar 29, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Folding design leads to heart sensor with smaller profile

Researchers developed a foldable sensor sheet using kirigami principles, enabling wearable devices to conform to the human body and detect electrocardiographic signals. The sensor measures 200 square millimeters and can accurately relay heart data across multiple people, making it suitable for early diagnosis of disease.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateMar 29, 2022

Quantum sensors: Measuring even more precisely

Physicists at the University of Innsbruck have developed a programmable quantum sensor that can measure with even greater precision, using tailored entanglement to optimize performance. The sensor autonomously finds its optimal settings through free parameters, promising a significant advantage over classical computers.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022

Photonic encryption platform in the ultraviolet and visible

A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an optical encryption platform that works in both the visible and ultraviolet regimes. The platform uses metasurface technology to display unique product numbers and improve encryption security.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 17, 2022

Tiny battery-free devices float in the wind like dandelion seeds

Researchers developed tiny sensor-carrying devices inspired by dandelion seeds to monitor environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. The devices can travel up to 100 meters on a breeze, share data wirelessly up to 60 meters away, and power themselves using solar panels.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2022

A fabric that “hears” your heartbeat

A new fabric developed by MIT engineers can detect subtle heartbeat features and the direction of sudden sounds, enabling real-time monitoring of vital signs. The fabric works like a microphone, converting sound vibrations into electrical signals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Warning: Objects in driverless car sensors may be closer than they appear

Researchers at Duke University have demonstrated a new attack strategy that can deceive industry-standard autonomous vehicle sensors into believing nearby objects are closer or further than they appear. This vulnerability highlights the need for additional redundancy and data sharing between vehicles to protect against such attacks.

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022

Paper discs that can pick up hydrogen peroxide

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has developed a paper-based sensor that can detect tiny volumes of hydrogen peroxide using UV light. The intensity of the light emitted is directly proportional to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, making it possible to visualize the emission with the naked eye.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Sensors·DateMar 9, 2022

The rare discovery of a protein function universal to bacteria and humans

Researchers found a human receptor protein detecting amino acids in the same way as bacteria, leading to potential enhancements of GABA-based drugs. This discovery adds to the sparse evidence of commonalities between bacteria and humans in sensing essential components.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2022

Sensor breakthrough announced in Nature paves way for groundbreaking map of world under Earth surface

Researchers from the University of Birmingham have successfully used a quantum gravity gradiometer to detect an object hidden below ground, marking a significant milestone in the development of this technology. The breakthrough could lead to faster, cheaper, and more comprehensive underground mapping, with potential applications in ind...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022
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.

Remote sensing technology reduces urban air pollution

A new study found that Hong Kong's remote sensing enforcement program significantly reduced harmful chemicals at the roadside and in the atmosphere. The program led to a 22-39% reduction in total hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitric oxide emissions from high-emitting vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2022
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.

Quick COVID breathalyzer could allow mass screening in public places

Researchers have developed a rapid and accurate breathalyzer test that can diagnose COVID-19 in under 5 minutes, identifying asymptomatic carriers. The handheld device uses surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensors to detect volatile organic compounds exhaled by infected individuals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 2, 2022

Early humans placed the hearth at the optimal location in their cave – for maximum benefit and minimum smoke exposure

Researchers developed a software-based smoke dispersal simulation model to study prehistoric archaeology. They found that early humans placed their hearth at the optimal location in the cave, enabling maximum utilization of fire while minimizing smoke exposure. The study identified a 25sqm area as ideal for locating the hearth.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature·DateJan 31, 2022

Can wearable technology predict the negative consequences of drinking?

Researchers from Penn State's Department of Biobehavioral Health developed wearable sensors that can detect alcohol concentration in sweat, providing a more nuanced understanding of intoxication. The study shows that wearable technology can predict the negative consequences of drinking and help prevent alcohol-related harm.

SourcePenn State·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A bioelectronic tongue ‘tastes’ sweetness

Researchers have developed an ultrasensitive bioelectronic tongue that mimics human taste buds to measure sweetness. The device responds to sweet-tasting compounds at the 0.1 femtomolar level, making it a powerful tool for industries such as healthcare and food.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 26, 2022

‘Smart saddle’ could help equestrians hit their stride (video)

A team of researchers has created a prototype 'smart saddle' that utilizes self-powered triboelectric nanogenerators to analyze equestrian biomechanics. The device can detect subtle cues from the rider's posture, seat, and legs, as well as alert others in case of a fall.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 26, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New neutron-based method helps keep underwater pipelines open

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new neutron-based method to detect clogs in underwater pipelines non-destructively. This approach uses prompt gamma neutron activation analysis to measure hydrogen concentration, allowing for the detection of blockages and hydrate formation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNondestructive Testing And Evaluation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2022

An all-in-one approach to diabetes treatment

Researchers at MIT have developed an all-in-one approach to diabetes treatment, streamlining the process of blood glucose measurement and insulin injection. The new device can automate procedures such as pricking skin, collecting blood, calculating glucose levels, and dispensing insulin, reducing the need for multiple devices and makin...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateJan 20, 2022

Camels’ noses inspire a new humidity sensor

Researchers created a humidity sensor mimicking camel noses to detect moisture levels in industrial exhaust and human skin. The device responds to changes in skin perspiration and can even follow the path of a finger, suggesting a potential basis for touchless interfaces.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 19, 2022

New sensor grids record human brain signals in record-breaking resolution

The new sensor grids offer 100 times higher resolution than existing technology, allowing for more precise identification of seizure origins and preservation of healthy brain tissue. Longer term, the technology holds potential for permanent implantation to improve life quality for people with paralysis or neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022
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.

Pusan National University scientists develop simpler way to create common chemical detection platform

Researchers have created a new, simpler way to fabricate SERS nanostructures with superior stability and performance at low cost. By using a heat-resistant polymer called polyimide (PI), they can produce nanosurfaces with nanopillars that enhance signal intensity for efficient chemical detection. The new fabrication method has the pote...

SourcePusan National University·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022

Wearable air sampler assesses personal exposure to SARS-CoV-2

Researchers developed a passive air sampler clip to estimate airborne virus concentrations, detecting SARS-CoV-2 in five out of 62 volunteers. The device could serve as a semiquantitative screening tool for assessing personal exposure and identifying high-risk areas.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJan 11, 2022

Personalizing treatment for severe limb injuries

A team of scientists at the University of Missouri used small wearable sensors to gather data on how people with a traumatic hand amputation use a prosthesis versus a transplanted hand. The study found that hand transplant recipients exhibit a more balanced pattern of limb use, while prosthesis users rely heavily on their prosthetic hand.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNeurorehabilitation and Neural Repair·DateJan 10, 2022