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New bioink for cell bioprinting in 3D

A research group at Linköping University has developed a dynamic bioink that allows cells to survive and thrive during 3D printing. The bioink's properties can be modified as required, enabling the creation of tissue-mimicking materials with tailored functionalities.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBiofabrication·DateJul 13, 2020
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.

Lighting the path for cells

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to distribute bioactive molecules in three-dimensional space, allowing them to guide the growth of nerve fibers and other biological processes. This innovation has potential benefits for medicine, including improving recovery from neural injuries.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 12, 2020

A new way to cool down electronic devices, recover waste heat

Researchers have developed a hydrogel that can cool down electronic devices and convert waste heat into electricity, reducing overheating issues and increasing device efficiency. The new material, which is self-regenerating and safe for use, has shown promising results in cooling cell phone batteries during fast discharging.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 22, 2020
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.

Twin-chain hydrogels for cleaning artwork

Researchers developed twin-chain hydrogels for cleaning artworks, improving efficacy on rough surfaces and reducing pigment loss. The new tool was successfully tested on Jackson Pollock paintings, demonstrating superior cleaning capabilities compared to conventional methods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Powering devices goes skin deep

Scientists have developed a method to recharge bioelectronic implants wirelessly using soft and flexible materials that absorb sound waves. The new technology could minimize surgical treatments and improve patient comfort. Researchers have successfully demonstrated the concept by charging devices with ultrasonic energy.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 8, 2020
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.

Shining a new light on biomimetic materials

Researchers have created a hydrogel that responds to optical stimuli and modifies the stimulus in response, trapping light within regions of the material. The discovery opens new pathways toward creating devices that aren't reliant on human control.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 24, 2020

Active droplets

Researchers created 'active droplets' that release drugs at a constant rate over several days, reducing the risk of overdose. The droplets are stable for longer due to hydrolysis protection and can be loaded with varying doses.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateFeb 20, 2020

Smart contact lens sensor developed for point-of-care eye health monitoring

A smart contact lens has been developed to monitor xerophthalmia and high intraocular pressure disease, providing real-time color changes based on moisture and pressure levels. The device features periodic nanostructures within a biocompatible hydrogel matrix, offering superior biosafety and comfort.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry B·DateFeb 18, 2020

Low-cost 'smart' diaper can notify caregiver when it's wet

Researchers at MIT have developed a low-cost, disposable smart diaper that uses RFID technology to alert caregivers when a baby is wet. The sensor detects moisture and sends a signal to a nearby receiver, which can send a notification to a smartphone or computer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateFeb 14, 2020

New hydrogels wither while stem cells flourish for tissue repair

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed biodegradable hydrogels that create a fertile environment for bone stem cells to grow and proliferate. The study found that the space created by degrading hydrogels enables stem cells to thrive, remodel their local environment, and form intricate cellular networks.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateFeb 4, 2020
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.

Structual color barcode micromotors for multiplex biosensing

Researchers at Southeast University have developed a novel kind of microtort with stable structural color for multiplex assays. These micromotors can efficiently accelerate mixing speed and increase probe-target interactions, leading to faster and more sensitive detection. The unique structural color coding allows for simultaneous mult...

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 16, 2020
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.

Lights on for germ-free wound dressings

Researchers have introduced a gel that is activated by red light to produce reactive oxygen compounds effectively killing bacteria and fungi. The hydrogel combines photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy with fully synthetic properties, overcoming previous biocompatibility issues.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 16, 2020

Bacteria and sand engineered into living concrete

Researchers created a green living material that demonstrates similar strength to cement-based mortar by combining sand, bacteria, and hydrogel. The material reproduces and can be controlled to maintain structural function and microbial survivability.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·DateJan 15, 2020

Hydrogels control inflammation to help healing

Researchers have developed injectable hydrogels that can tune the body's inflammatory response, promoting or reducing inflammation as needed. The study found that positively charged hydrogels triggered stronger responses for wound-healing and cancer treatment, while negatively charged gels were better suited for drug delivery.

SourceRice University·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 16, 2019

Bio-inspired hydrogel can rapidly switch to rigid plastic

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a hydrogel that stiffens 1,800-fold when exposed to heat, inspired by thermophilic proteins. The material, composed of polyelectrolyte poly(acrylic acid), transforms from soft to rigid upon heating and can be reversed with cooling.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 3, 2019
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.

Getting glued in the sea

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed adhesives inspired by mussels that utilize electrostatic interactions to stick to negatively charged surfaces in saltwater. The adhesiveness was largely thanks to the interaction between positively charged residues on the polymers and the negatively charged surfaces.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 2019

New 3D printing technique for biomaterials

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new 3D printing technique called Suspended Layer Additive Manufacturing (SLAM) that can create soft biomaterials for repairing body defects. The technique uses a polymer-based hydrogel with self-healing properties, allowing for precise detail and support without sagging.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 4, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dealing a therapeutic counterblow to traumatic brain injury

Researchers develop a novel therapy to protect neurons and stimulate regrowth of blood vessels in damaged tissue. In preclinical trials, rats injected with the hydrogel retained more functioning neurons and formed new blood cells at the injury site.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateOct 3, 2019

Researchers develop thermo-responsive protein hydrogel

A NYU Tandon-led team created a biocompatible protein-based drug delivery system that can survive in the body for over two weeks and provide sustained medication release. The thermo-responsive protein hydrogel exhibits properties similar to synthetic hydrogels but is more desirable for use in biomedicine.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateSep 18, 2019

Chameleon inspires 'smart skin' that changes color in the sun

Researchers at Emory University have created a flexible smart skin that changes color in response to heat and sunlight without altering its size. This innovation uses photonic crystals to mimic the chameleon's natural ability, opening doors for applications in camouflage, chemical sensing, and anti-counterfeiting.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 11, 2019

A chameleon-inspired smart skin changes color in the sun

Researchers create strain-accommodating smart skin that changes color in response to heat and sunlight, mimicking chameleon skin. The new material uses arrays of photonic crystals embedded in hydrogels to achieve color changes without buckling.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 11, 2019
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.

Robotic thread is designed to slip through the brain's blood vessels

Researchers at MIT have designed a robotic thread that can navigate the brain's blood vessels using magnets, aiming to improve endovascular procedures for treating stroke and aneurysms. The thread can be functionalized to deliver drugs or break up blockages with laser light.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 28, 2019

High-tech gel aids delivery of drugs

Researchers have developed a hydrogel-based carrier that can deliver siRNAs directly to tumors, overcoming the challenge of rapid degradation and limited cellular entry. This innovative technology has the potential to improve the effectiveness of siRNA-based cancer treatments and enable more efficient delivery of biologics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 28, 2019

Peptide hydrogels could help heal traumatic brain injuries

Researchers have developed a self-assembling peptide hydrogel that increases blood vessel regrowth and neuronal survival in rats with traumatic brain injuries. The treatment also improves the survival of brain cells and shows signs of new blood vessel formation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 27, 2019

CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system offers programmable approach to smart biomaterials

Researchers developed a CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system that can be programmed to release compounds, nanoparticles, or live cells in response to specific DNA targets. The system's sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, bio-electronics, and biosensing.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019
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.

New hydrogels show promise in treating bone defects

Researchers from UCLA School of Dentistry developed a new hydrogel that promotes tissue repair and regeneration, inducing stem cell migration to enhance bone healing. The clay-enhanced hydrogel has a more porous structure, improving its ability to deliver cells to defective areas.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 20, 2019

KIST develops technology for creating flexible sensors on topographic surfaces

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology developed a transfer-printing technology for creating high-performance sensors on diverse shapes and structures. The KIST team used hydrogel and nano ink to easily create electrodes, overcoming limitations in traditional transfer printing processes.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 29, 2019

Researchers: Eggshells can help grow, heal bones

Researchers at UMass Lowell have discovered that eggshell particles can increase bone cells' ability to grow and harden, potentially resulting in faster healing. The technique uses crushed eggshells in a hydrogel mixture to support bone growth, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateJul 8, 2019

Artificial DNA can control release of active ingredients from drugs

Researchers developed a process to release multiple active ingredients in sequence under conditions similar to the human body, using hydrogels and artificial DNA. The particles are released one by one, with each stage triggered by the previous release.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateJun 28, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Hydrogel offers double punch against orthopedic bone infections

Researchers have developed a double-duty hydrogel that both kills bacteria and promotes bone regrowth using lysostaphin and BMP-2. This breakthrough therapy shows promise in treating orthopedic bone infections with fewer surgeries and accelerated healing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2019

3D printed tissues and organs without the scaffolding

Researchers have developed a process for 3D printing biological tissues without scaffolds using stem cells in a hydrogel bead bath. The printed cells form stable connections and mature into functional tissues, offering potential applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateJun 17, 2019
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.

Snail-inspired superglue

Researchers created a hydrogel-based adhesive inspired by snails' mucus, combining strength and reversibility. The PHEMA gel achieves adhesive strengths comparable to superglues, with 'shape adaptation and memory' properties.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2019

Molecular bait can help hydrogels heal wounds

Researchers have created a new type of hydrogel that can grow new tissue to heal wounds, eliminating the need for external growth factors. The hydrogels are made with biomolecules anchored in crosslinkers and can be mixed at room temperature.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2019

Nitric oxide-scavenging hydrogel developed for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

A team of researchers has developed a nano-sized hydrogel that can scavenge nitric oxide and effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis. The hydrogel was shown to be more effective than current therapeutic drugs in suppressing the onset of the disease, with minimal side effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 4, 2019
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.

Texas A&M research team develops bioinks to print therapeutics in 3D

A Texas A&M research team has developed a new class of hydrogel bioinks loaded with therapeutic proteins, which can be used for precise deposition of protein therapeutics in 3D. The bioink formulation has unique shear-thinning properties that allow it to stay in place after injection, making it suitable for 3D bioprinting applications.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJun 3, 2019

Uncovering microgel mysteries

A team of scientists at Shinshu University used a newly customized tool to study hydrogel microspheres, observing structural differences that were previously unexplained. The study reveals that the method of production greatly affects the structure and behavior of thermoresponsive microgels.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 30, 2019

Producing tissue and organs through lithography

Researchers are developing a top-down lithography method to create complex tissues and their anatomical microstructures. This approach uses light sheet illumination and special hydrogels to form branched chain structures that serve as a matrix for cell colonization.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateMay 23, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Ultra-thin superlattices from gold nanoparticles for nanophotonics

Scientists have developed a technique to produce highly ordered particle layers using tiny gold particles encapsulated in soft polymer beads. The resulting ultrathin superlattices exhibit collective resonances when excited by light, enabling potential applications in optoelectronics and nanophotonics.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 20, 2019

Will MSC micropellets outperform single cells for cartilage regeneration?

A study directly compares chondrogenic induction by hydrogels containing MSCs as either single cell suspensions or 100-500-cell micropellets. The results show that micropellet-encapsulated MSCs outperform single cells in cartilage regeneration, providing guidance for future cartilage engineering efforts.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTissue Engineering·DateMay 9, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Working out makes hydrogels perform more like muscle

Researchers created hydrogels that mimic muscle properties through mechanical training, producing strong, soft, and fatigue-resistant materials for medical implants and engineering applications. The trained hydrogels demonstrate improved tensile strength, soft flexibility, and high water content.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Traffic control of cells

Scientists have created a hydrogel matrix whose stiffness can be reversibly tuned using light, enabling the investigation of how cells respond to dynamic changes in their environment. The matrix has potential applications in cancer immunotherapy and understanding cell migration patterns.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 25, 2019
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.

SUTD researchers develop a hydrogel for enhanced cell encapsulation and delivery

A new thixogel called CNF hydrogel has been developed by SUTD researchers, offering improved cell encapsulation and delivery. The hydrogel combines the benefits of both solid and liquid forms, providing a protective environment for cells while conforming to host tissue geometry.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateMar 25, 2019

Solar-powered moisture harvester collects and cleans water from air

Researchers at UT Austin developed a solar-powered moisture harvester that captures and cleans water from the air using hydrogels. The system can produce up to 50 liters of clean water per kilogram of hydrogel, making it a promising solution for disaster situations, water crises, or poverty-stricken areas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 14, 2019

UNH researchers create a hydrogel contact lens to treat serious eye disease

Researchers at UNH have developed a new hydrogel that deactivates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) responsible for corneal melting by removing zinc ions. This localized treatment avoids side effects common with existing MMP inhibitors, paving the way for a potential contact lens therapy.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMar 12, 2019
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.

Lobster's underbelly is as tough as industrial rubber

Researchers discovered the lobster membrane is surprisingly tough and stretchy, making it a potential guide for designing flexible body armor. The membrane's layered structure, similar to plywood, provides exceptional strength and resistance to scratches and cuts, outperforming industrial rubber composites.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Materialia·DateFeb 19, 2019