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Smart soil can water and feed itself

A newly engineered hydrogel-infused soil system has been developed to capture water from the air and release nutrients, resulting in larger, healthier plants using less water and fertilizer. The technology has shown promising results in experiments, with a 138% increase in stem length compared to regular soil.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Materials Letters·DateJul 17, 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.

A hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis by preventing retrograde menstruation and acting as a barrier to sperm. The implant can be easily destroyed and is compatible with native tissue, offering a promising non-surgical solution for women suffering from the condition.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 17, 2024

Groundbreaking study reveals insights into Alzheimer's disease mechanisms through novel hydrogel matrix

Researchers have developed a multi-component hydrogel scaffold to mimic the amyloid-beta containing microenvironment associated with AD. The study found elevated levels of neuroinflammation and apoptosis markers in healthy neuronal progenitor cells cultured within this environment.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalActa Biomaterialia·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Novel 3D hydrogel culture to study TB infection and treatment

Researchers have designed a novel 3D hydrogel culture system that accurately mimics the mammalian lung environment, allowing for the study of tuberculosis bacteria infection and therapeutics. The system successfully tracks infection progression and demonstrates the efficacy of pyrazinamide in clearing out TB bacteria.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJun 25, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3D thymic-like hydrogels for T-cell differentiation

A new study published in GEN Biotechnology describes the establishment of a 3D hydrogel-based platform for producing functional T-cells from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The platform was engineered with key thymic components to direct T-cell development, producing cytokine-producing T-cells.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGEN Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2024

Novel strategy proposed for all-climate zinc-ion batteries

Researchers propose a novel hydrogel electrolyte formula that effectively interrupts water clusters and enhances water covalency, resulting in an expanded voltage stability window. The design improves the battery's climate adaptability by regulating Zn solvation and interfacial adhesion.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2024

Harnessing intratumoral microbiome against colorectal cancer

Researchers developed an oral inulin-based hydrogel targeting colorectal tumors, which released oxaliplatin and modulated the microbiota to generate anti-tumor immune responses. The treatment showed improved chemotherapy efficacy and reduced tumor progression.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2024

3D bioprinting for an advanced gut-on-chip model

Researchers have developed a highly versatile 3D bioprinted gut-on-chip model with integrated electrodes, capable of simulating the formation of the intestinal barrier in real-time. This innovative device has potential applications in disease modeling and drug screening.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalBiofabrication·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2024
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.

Virginia Tech physicists propose path to faster, more flexible robots

Researchers discover a microscopic phenomenon that enables hydrogels to swell and contract quickly, improving the flexibility of soft robots. This breakthrough could lead to faster and more agile robots with applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and search and rescue operations.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 17, 2024

Healing faster: Unveiling the future of tissue & organ repair

A team of scientists at the University of Ottawa has developed a novel peptide-based hydrogel that can be used for on-the-spot repair to damaged organs and tissues. The material shows great potential for closing skin wounds, delivering therapeutics to damaged heart muscle, and reshaping and healing injured corneas.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

Aligned peptide ‘noodles’ could enable lab-grown biological tissues

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel fabrication process to create aligned peptide nanofiber hydrogels, which can guide cell growth in a desired direction. The study revealed that cells need to be able to 'pull' on the peptide nanofibers to recognize alignment, and excessive rigidity can prevent this.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

NJIT engineers muffle invading pathogens with a 'molecular mask'

Researchers at NJIT are developing a hydrogel therapy that prevents viruses like SARS-CoV-2 from attaching to and entering cells. The peptides in the gel form a 'molecular mask' that muffles the virus's action, providing a potential first line of defense against biological threats.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 23, 2024
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.

Novel hydrogel removes microplastics from water

Researchers at IISc developed a novel hydrogel that can remove 95% of polyvinyl chloride and 93% of polypropylene microplastics from water. The hydrogel uses UV light irradiation and has a durable structure, making it suitable for repeated use.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNanoscale·DateApr 12, 2024

Synthetic platelets stanch bleeding, promote healing in animal models

Synthetic platelets made of hydrogel nanoparticles mimic the size and shape of human platelets, promoting clotting and healing. The innovative device has shown promising results in animal models and is being developed for clinical use to treat various medical conditions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2024

Treatment for blindness-causing retinal detachment using viscous seaweed

A team of scientists from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an artificial vitreous body based on alginate to treat retinal detachment. The hydrogel maintains vision post-surgery and regulates fluid dynamics within the eye, preventing recurrence and air bubble formation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 25, 2024

3D images reveal link between crack complexity and material toughness

Researchers at EPFL's EMSI lab discovered a positive correlation between crack complexity and material toughness, revealing that more energy is required to advance complex cracks than simple ones. This finding could improve materials testing and development for safe and cost-effective composite materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2024
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.

Revolutionary chronic wound treatment could help millions

A team of international scientists has developed an effective treatment for preventing infection in chronic wounds that does not involve antibiotics. The new method involves the plasma activation of hydrogel dressings, producing a unique mix of chemical oxidants that are effective in decontaminating and aiding healing.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Advancing tissue engineering with shape memory hydrogels

Scientists create a hydrogel system that can remember its shape, allowing them to control cell adhesion behavior. The elastic modulus of the hydrogel is adjusted by compressing it into different thicknesses at high temperatures.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

This injectable hydrogel mitigates damage to the right ventricle of the heart

Researchers have developed an injectable hydrogel that mitigates damage to the right ventricle of the heart in children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The treatment, made from cardiac extracellular matrix, improves heart function and slows tissue scarring, potentially increasing patient survival time.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2024

Scientists from IOCB Prague have improved materials for reconstructive and plastic surgery

Researchers from IOCB Prague and Ghent University have developed 3D-printable gelatin-based materials that can be easily monitored using X-rays or CT scans. This improvement enables the tracking of implant biodegradation and mechanical failures, allowing for tailored clinical requirements.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024
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.

Where neural stem cells feel at home

Neural stem cells developed into nerve cells when adhering to hydrogels with high positive charge, while those on lower positively charged gels became glial cells. The ability to influence differentiation could aid in nerve and glial cell regeneration and treatment of diseases like multiple sclerosis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

A new glue, potentially also for you

Researchers create a simple method to instantly bond layers made of the same or different types of hydrogels using a thin film of chitosan. The new approach has potential to broadly advance new biomaterials solutions for multiple unmet clinical needs, including regenerative medicine and surgical care.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2024

Giant step forward to help treat chronic wounds that affect millions

A team of scientists has developed a new treatment for chronic wounds that uses ionized gas plasma to decontaminate and heal wounds. The technology shows promise in treating diabetic foot ulcers, internal wounds, and potentially cancerous tumours.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2024

Rapid detection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria

A rapid diagnosis protocol using a luminescent paper-based platform has been developed to detect the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The approach uses a supramolecular hydrogel matrix containing terbium cholate that emits green fluorescence when UV light is shined on it.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 15, 2024

Can hydrogels help mend a broken heart?

Researchers have created a hydrogel that can be used to heal damaged heart tissue and improve cancer treatments. The gel is made from cellulose nanocrystals derived from wood pulp and has a nanofibrous architecture that replicates the properties of human tissues.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 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.

3D printed nanocellulose upscaled for green architectural applications

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new, sustainable architectural material by 3D printing nanocellulose and algae. The material's use could significantly reduce energy consumption in construction, aligning with the European Green Deal's goals.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMaterials & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2024

Injectable water filtration system could improve access to clean drinking water around the world

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin developed a portable and affordable water filtration system that can catch up to 100% of particles larger than 10 nanometers. The device uses low-cost, sustainable materials and is easy to use, making it an attractive solution for improving freshwater availability in remote regions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 23, 2024
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.

Scientists open door to achieving high-precision 'slippery structural hydrogel'

Researchers introduce trehalose into hydrogels to form hydrogen bond interactions, improving dehydration resistance, lubrication performance, mechanical properties, and manufacturing accuracy. This discovery proposes a new design principle for high-precision manufacturing of hydrogel materials.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 15, 2024

Unveiling the future of photonics: Hydrogel innovations pave the way

Researchers harness hydrogels to create dynamic photonic devices capable of substantial, tunable optical alterations. These advancements have the potential to transform our interaction with photonic devices, affecting technologies from everyday to specialized scientific equipment.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateJan 9, 2024

Scientists tackle difficult-to-recycle thermoset polymers

Researchers at the University of Bath and University of Surrey have developed a method to introduce degradable bonds into thermoset polymers, making them more easily recyclable. The study found that gels with breakable bonds retained their properties better when reformed after degradation.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 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.

Revolutionary seaweed and carbonated water based hydrogel for treating skin wounds

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel, low-cost hydrogel using seaweed extract that prevents wound expansion and promotes healing. The hydrogel demonstrates significantly lower adhesion and swelling compared to conventional hydrogels, making it an excellent alternative for treating skin wounds.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Harvesting water from air with solar power

Researchers have developed a promising new solar-powered technology to harvest water from air, capable of increasing daily water supply needs in dryland areas. The system uses a super hygroscopic gel to absorb and retain large amounts of water, with the potential for large-scale practical applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 5, 2023

Enhanced treatment of liver carcinoma with a drug-eluting hydrogel

Scientists have developed a drug-eluting hydrogel that provides sustained, pH-dependent drug co-delivery and promotes anti-tumor immune responses, reducing tumor cell proliferation and growth. The treatment shows promise in treating hepatocellular carcinoma, with enhanced efficacy compared to traditional methods.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

New drug delivery system could reduce daily diabetes shots to just three a year

A new hydrogel drug delivery system has been developed that can transform daily injections of diabetes and weight control drugs into once every four months. The system has shown promising potential in laboratory tests and could improve management of Type 2 diabetes, patient drug compliance, and long-term health outcomes.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateNov 22, 2023
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.

Proof of concept of new material for long lasting relief from dry mouth conditions

A novel aqueous lubricant technology has been developed at the University of Leeds, providing a longer-lasting solution for people with dry mouth conditions. The substance, composed of microgel and hydrogel, binds strongly to the surface of the mouth, reducing desorption and offering up to five times more effective relief.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

New “injectable tissue prosthesis coupled with closed-loop bioelectronic system” to aid in damaged muscle/nerve regeneration and robot-assisted rehabilitation

Researchers from the Institute for Basic Science developed a novel approach to healing muscle injury using conductive hydrogels and robot-assisted rehabilitation. The injectable tissue prosthesis enhances gait in rodent models without nerve stimulation, while improving long-term muscle tissue regeneration.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2023

Hydrogel developed by Brazilian researchers improves skin wound healing in diabetics

Researchers developed a low-cost anti-inflammatory hydrogel containing annexin A1 that accelerated complete skin wound healing in mice with induced type 1 diabetes. The hydrogel modulated the wound microenvironment and favored tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel formation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateOct 27, 2023

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
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.

Mimics human tissue, fights bacteria: New biomaterial hits the sweet spot

Scientists at UNSW Sydney have created a new material that can mimic human tissue, fight bacteria, and heal itself. The hydrogel material is made from simple peptides and has implications for biomedical research, medicine, and manufacturing technology.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Mimicking a bird’s sticky spit to create cellulose gels

Using a small bird's nest-making process, researchers developed a nontoxic method for making cellulose gels that can be used in applications such as tunable drug delivery. The process also works with bamboo and other lignin-containing plant fibers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023
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.

Cell-friendly bioprinting at high fidelity enhances its medical applicability

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a bioprinting technique that enables the creation of complex soft tissue structures with high fidelity. The method uses a printing support to facilitate gelation of a bioink, resulting in cell viability and viability for up to two weeks.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2023

Bio-inspired battery design

A team of Chinese researchers has developed a bio-inspired approach to improve the performance of flexible sodium-ion batteries. By methylating the structural polymer in the hydrogel electrolyte, they significantly increase the salt stability, leading to better battery capacity and cycling performance. The modified hydrogel can absorb ...

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023

University of Virginia team’s research offers hope for pulmonary fibrosis patients

A University of Virginia team has developed a new analytical tool using hydrogels to cultivate vascular sprouting from mouse lung tissue, providing new insight into idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The research aims to understand the biomechanical and biochemical cues to blood vessels in the lungs during disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalMicrocirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2023
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.

Hot summer air turns into drinking water with new gel device

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a molecularly engineered hydrogel that can create clean water from hot air, using solar energy. The device produces up to 7 kilograms of water per kilogram of gel materials, with potential applications for drought-stricken areas and countries lacking access to clean water.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2023

Breakthrough in scarless wound recovery achieved with autologous blood

Researchers at UNIST developed a microfluidic system to process blood into artificial tissue scaffolds for vascular regeneration. Autologous blood-based implants demonstrated superior wound closure rates, increased epidermis thickness, and enhanced collagen deposition in rodent skin wounds.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 6, 2023

“Countercation engineering” for thermoresponsive graphene-oxide nanosheets

Researchers developed a novel approach called 'countercation engineering' to impart thermoresponsiveness to graphene-oxide nanosheets. The method involves synthesizing GO nanosheets with specific countercations, resulting in inherent thermoresponsive behavior without the need for thermoresponsive polymers.

SourceShinshu University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Latest in body art? ‘Tattoos’ for individual cells

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed nanoscale tattoos that can stick to live cells, allowing for the first time to monitor and control individual cell health in real-time. This technology bridges the gap between living cells and conventional sensors, enabling early disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 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.

The approaches to achieve high-performance wearable sensors with hydrogels

Researchers explore techniques to enhance mechanical and electrical performance of hydrogel sensors, enabling harsh environment resistance, human skin compatibility, and intelligent data processing. Hydrogels' toughness and conductive capabilities make them suitable for wearable electronics applications.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 28, 2023

Fiber-infused ink enables 3D-printed heart muscle to beat

Researchers at Harvard developed a fiber-infused ink that allows 3D-printed heart muscle cells to align and contract like human heart cells, enabling the creation of functional heart ventricles. The innovation can be used to build life-like heart tissues with thicker muscle walls, paving the way for regenerative therapeutics.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 27, 2023