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Robot trained to read braille at twice the speed of humans

Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a robotic sensor that reads Braille at twice the speed of humans, achieving 87% accuracy. The breakthrough uses machine learning algorithms to 'deblur' images and recognize letters, paving the way for potential applications in robotics and prosthetics.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJan 29, 2024

Sound-powered sensors stand to save millions of batteries

A new type of mechanical sensor, powered by sound waves, could monitor infrastructure and medical devices without battery replacement, reducing waste. The sensor can distinguish between different words and sounds, triggering processes or alarms.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A long-lasting neural probe

A team of researchers from Harvard and Texas developed a soft implantable device with dozens of sensors to record single-neuron activity stably for months. The device uses fluorinated elastomers and is 10,000 times softer than conventional flexible probes.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2024

Self-powered sensor automatically harvests magnetic energy

Researchers at MIT developed a battery-free sensor that can harvest energy from its environment, allowing for long-term data collection in remote settings. The sensor uses a network of integrated circuits and transistors to store and convert energy efficiently, eliminating the need for batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateJan 18, 2024

Higher measurement accuracy opens new window to the quantum world

A team at HZB has developed a new measurement method that accurately detects tiny temperature differences in the range of 100 microkelvin in the thermal Hall effect. This allows for the study of quantum materials and their exotic properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalMaterials & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2024

Dirt-powered fuel cell runs forever

A new Northwestern University-led fuel cell harvests energy from microbes in soil to power underground sensors, potentially offering a sustainable alternative to batteries. The technology outlasts similar technologies by 120% and can operate in both wet and dry conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2024
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.

Towards more accurate 3D object detection for robots and self-driving cars

Researchers developed a network that combines 3D LiDAR and 2D image data to improve small object detection accuracy. The model outperformed existing methods in various noise conditions, with average precision improvements of up to 7.18%.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2024

Ultrasensitive molecular sensing with synthesize complex-frequencey waves

Researchers demonstrate a new method to synthesize complex-frequency waves (CFW) to amplify molecular signals in graphene-based surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA). This approach increases the sensitivity of traditional SEIRA technologies, enabling the detection of trace molecules currently undetectable. CFWs enhance molecular...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateJan 8, 2024
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.

Harnessing sensors, smart devices, and AI could transform agriculture

Agricultural productivity growth has significantly contracted; researchers need collaboration to tap into new technologies like wearable sensors, IoT-enabled devices, and AI. These cutting-edge tools can enhance monitoring of food safety, quality, and plant health.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateJan 4, 2024
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 uncovers molecular interactions driving multiple inflammasome activation and inflammatory cell death

A team of researchers discovered a multiprotein complex involving NLRP3, AIM2, NLRC4, and Pyrin that drives PANoptosis, a type of programmed inflammatory cell death. The findings have implications for understanding inflammasome biology and identifying potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalCellular and Molecular Immunology·DateDec 27, 2023

Engineers develop a vibrating, ingestible capsule that might help treat obesity

The researchers designed a capsule about the size of a multivitamin, powered by a small battery, which vibrates to activate mechanoreceptors in the stomach. This activation stimulates hormone release patterns similar to those following a meal, reducing food intake and slowing weight gain by 40 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 22, 2023

Wireless tracking system could help improve the XR experience

A new wireless tracking system, developed by UC San Diego engineers, enables accurate localization of objects in dynamic environments. The system overcomes camera-based limitations and provides centimeter-level accuracy, opening up new possibilities for enhanced XR experiences.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateDec 21, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A new map showing all above-ground biomass in the Brazilian Amazon

A new map showing all above-ground biomass in the Brazilian Amazon has been published, derived from a study combining airborne laser scanning, satellite imagery, and forest inventories. The results show an average of 174 metric tons of biomass per hectare and a maximum of 518 tons per hectare.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Data·DateDec 19, 2023

Viral enhancement of nanomaterial cancer sensor improves early detection

Researchers developed a novel cancer sensor using viral enhancement and nanomaterials, achieving ultra-high sensitivity in detecting breast cancer cells. The new P-DBS technology outperformed existing electrical-based sensors in terms of sensitivity and signal contrast.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNanoscale·DateDec 18, 2023

Acid sensor and calcium store discovered in plants

Researchers have identified a previously unknown endogenous acid sensor in plant cells that responds to changes in pH levels. The acid sensor triggers the release of calcium ions from an endoplasmic reticulum, which activates cellular responses to external stimuli such as infections or drought.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

New conductive, cotton-based fiber developed for smart textiles

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a single strand of fiber that combines the flexibility of cotton with the electric conductivity of polyaniline. The newly created material showed good potential for wearable e-textiles, including detecting hazardous exposures and tracking human vital signs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·DateDec 11, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Peptide power is ON

Scientists at IPC PAS create peptide-based sensors to detect inflammation and chronic diseases, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods. The study uses phage-display method to identify CRP-binding peptides, achieving higher affinity and detection efficiency than antibodies.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2023

How a failure to understand race leads to flawed health tech

A new study on wearable health monitors reveals that a failure to understand race leads to flawed technology, exacerbating existing racial health inequities. The researchers found significant challenges with 'race correction' in health technologies, which assumes biology over system racism.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHealth Equity·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 7, 2023

Brazilians create sensor to monitor levels of widely used antibiotic in water and food

Researchers at the Center for Development of Functional Materials created a sensor to monitor metronidazole levels in organisms and the environment. The sensor, combining magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles, showed good sensitivity and practical advantages, enabling real-time analysis and ease of handling.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Molecular Liquids·DateDec 7, 2023
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.

A color-based sensor to emulate skin's sensitivity

ChromoSense uses a translucent rubber cylinder with colored sections to detect changes in bending, stretching, compression, and temperature. The device has potential applications in wearable technologies and soft robots, offering a more targeted and information-dense sensing solution than traditional camera-based systems.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2023

Broadband buzz: Periodical cicadas' chorus measured with fiber optic cables

A new proof-of-concept study demonstrates the use of distributed fiber optic sensing to detect and analyze the sound of periodical cicadas. The technology shows promise for charting the populations of these famously ephemeral bugs, with potential applications in monitoring insect abundance across seasons and years.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

INU researchers develop novel deep learning-based detection system for autonomous vehicles

A new deep learning-based detection system has been developed by INU researchers to improve the detection capabilities of autonomous vehicles. The system, aided by IoT technology, generates bounding boxes and confidence scores for visible obstacles using point cloud data and RGB images as input.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

Photonic chip that ‘fits together like Lego’ opens door to semiconductor industry

Researchers at the University of Sydney have invented a compact silicon semiconductor chip integrating electronics with photonic components, significantly expanding radio-frequency bandwidth and filter control. The new technology has potential applications in advanced radar, satellite systems, wireless networks, and telecommunications,...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Gold now has a golden future in revolutionizing wearable devices

Researchers developed an integrated wearable sensor device using gold nanowires to measure multiple bio-signals simultaneously. The sensors demonstrated remarkable performance in detecting muscle tremors, heartbeat patterns, and body temperature changes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 20, 2023

Ingestible electronic device detects breathing depression in patients

Researchers developed an ingestible capsule to measure vital signs from within the GI tract, detecting sleep apnea episodes and breathing rate depression. The device shows promise for early detection of respiratory changes, including those caused by opioids or asthma/COPD.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDevice·DateNov 17, 2023
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.

Use it or lose it: New robotic system assesses mobility after stroke

A novel robotic system developed by USC researchers can help clinicians accurately assess a patient's rehabilitation progress. The method generates an 'arm nonuse' metric using machine learning and a socially assistive robot to track how much a patient is using their weaker arm spontaneously.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 15, 2023

‘Cutting the cord’ to advance ocean data collection

A team led by Lehigh University's Yahong Rosa Zheng is developing an Autonomous Observatory Node that can collect and transmit data from underwater sensors wirelessly, without the need for expensive subsea cables. The prototype aims to operate at depths of up to 1000 meters, enabling researchers to study extreme environments and detect...

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 13, 2023

Purdue sensors measure uric acid levels better than other noninvasive methods

Researchers at Purdue University have developed noninvasive wearable sensors that can measure uric acid levels in human sweat, offering faster and more accurate diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis for conditions like anxiety and hypertension. The sensors, called EPICS, have higher sensitivity and better wearability than traditional sensors.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNano Energy·DateNov 8, 2023
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.

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Screen printed electrodes for measuring endothelial barrier integrity

Scientists have developed a novel organ-on-a-chip device with customizable screen-printed electrodes for measuring endothelial barrier integrity. The device overcomes traditional electrode fabrication challenges, providing a reliable and accurate method for studying the crucial roles of endothelial barriers in healthy and disease states.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalBiomedical Microdevices·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2023

Vision via sound for the blind

Researchers developed 'acoustic touch' smart glasses that translate visual information into distinct sound icons, enhancing the ability of blind or low-vision individuals to navigate their surroundings. The technology significantly improved object recognition and reaching abilities, empowering independence and quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 25, 2023
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.

Chemists, engineers craft adjustable arrays of microscopic lenses

Scientists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a system that can adjust the size, shape, and refractive index of microscopic lenses in real-time. The design uses hydrogels and polydimethylsiloxane to create a dynamic platform for soft robotics and liquid optics applications.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 23, 2023

Sustainable smart agriculture with a biodegradable soil moisture sensor

Osaka University researchers create a wirelessly powered, biodegradable soil moisture sensing technology that can be installed in high densities, enabling precision agriculture with minimized land and water use. The system achieves both electronic functionality and biodegradability, allowing for safe disposal of used sensor devices.

SourceOsaka University·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Miniaturized FSO breakthrough unlocks high-speed wireless communication anywhere

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a miniaturized FSO system achieving an astonishing 9.16 Gbps bandwidth over 1 km link using readily available commercial fiber transceiver modules. The system enables automatic tracking and precision acquisition, eliminating the need for optical amplification.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 17, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology scientists develop deep learning-based biosensing platform to count viral particles better

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed a deep learning-based biosensing platform called DeepGT, which can accurately quantify nanoscale bioparticles, including viruses. The platform harnesses the advantages of Gires-Tournois biosensors and AI to refine visual artifacts and extract relevant info...

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Today·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2023
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 world has a food-waste problem. Can this wireless tech help fix it?

A team from Princeton University and Microsoft Research developed a fast and accurate method to determine fruit quality using high-frequency wireless technology. This system promises to help reduce food waste by sorting good fruit from bad bunches and ripening fruits more efficiently, according to the new study.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2023

Extreme sports: How body and mind interact

A study published by Vienna University of Technology analyzed the effects of extreme physical and mental stress on a rowing athlete's body. The research found that the variability in heart rate, sleep quality, and regeneration during sleep phases were closely related to the athlete's psychological condition.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeCase study·DateOct 10, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sweet Victory: Sensor detects adulteration in honey

A team of scientists developed a microwave microstrip line planar resonator sensor to detect added water in honey. The sensor's resonance frequency shifts with increased water content, allowing for adulteration detection.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateOct 10, 2023

Wearable sensor to monitor ‘last line of defense’ antibiotic

Researchers have developed a wearable sensor patch capable of continuously monitoring vancomycin levels, a critical antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections. The sensor system detects changes in vancomycin concentration using aptamers and gold wires, providing real-time measurements for effective treatment.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023

Researchers monitor thermal runaway of lithium-ion cells using optical fibers

A team of researchers has created an optical fiber sensor that can detect thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, providing early warning and improving safety. The sensor measures internal temperature and pressure during the thermal runaway process, enabling battery safety assessment and warning.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

USTC explores exotic spin interactions at microscale using solid-state spin quantum sensors

The University of Science and Technology of China has made a significant breakthrough in exploring exotic spin interactions using solid-state spin quantum sensors. Their research findings provide valuable insights into these interactions, allowing for precise measurements of various spin phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2023

An effective method for face orientation estimation using depth–gyro sensor

Scientists from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a more precise approach to face direction detection, achieving remarkable performance through deep learning-based classification. The new method uses point cloud data and gyro sensors, reducing the need for large datasets and improving accuracy.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

Carnegie Mellon University sensor objectively measures scratching intensity

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a wearable device that can objectively measure the intensity of scratching, which could help evaluate the efficacy of medications meant to reduce itching. The device uses a contact microphone and accelerometer to detect high-frequency vibrations and correlates them with scratch i...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateSep 19, 2023
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.

Rutgers scientists develop method to detect deadly infectious diseases

Rutgers researchers have developed a method to detect the early onset of deadly infectious diseases using a test that can flag 'quiet infected' patients who don't exhibit symptoms. The ultra-sensitive biosensor combines nanoballs and advanced electronics to detect viral nucleic acid material, enabling early infection detection.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 19, 2023

Unveiling the invisible: a bioinspired CMOS-integrated polarization imaging sensor

A team of scientists has developed a chip-integrated metasurface-based Full-Stokes polarimetric imaging sensor inspired by the mantis shrimp eye, achieving high accuracy and large field of view. The sensor operates at visible wavelengths with ultra-compact footprint and CMOS compatibility.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 18, 2023

Movement sensors can detect disease in wild boar

Accelerometer sensors can detect sickness behavior in wild boar, allowing for early detection of African Swine Fever. The study found that infected boars were 10-20% less active daily than healthy ones, making this technology a potential tool for disease control and prevention.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2023
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.