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KIST finds clue to improve artificial vision for patients with retinitis pigmentosa

Researchers at KIST found that retinal neural signals from electric stimulation are altered depending on disease progression in mice affected by outer retinal degeneration. This study suggests guidelines for patient selection of retinal prostheses, improving performance and perception of artificial vision.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateAug 10, 2020

Harnessing the sun to purify concentrated waste streams

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing a hybrid solar desalination system that combines membrane distillation, concentrated solar power, and photovoltaics to recover water from concentrated waste streams. The system uses renewable energy resources to purify concentrate streams with maximum efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New fabric could help keep you cool in the summer, even without A/C (video)

Researchers created a personal cooling fabric that efficiently transfers heat away from the body while allowing sweat to evaporate. The new material, made from nanofibrous membranes coated with boron nitride nanosheets, has high thermal conductivity and potential uses in solar energy collection and electronic device management.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 29, 2020

How Salt Lake's buildings affect its climate future

University of Utah researchers found that Salt Lake City's buildings will require less natural gas for heating and more electricity for cooling as temperatures rise. The study suggests that local building policy can impact energy use in the future, with multi-family apartment buildings expected to grow in number.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalWorld·DateJul 28, 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.

Carbon footprints of US residents

A study reveals that high-income neighborhoods emit significantly more GHGs for energy use due to larger homes and less dense communities. To achieve the Paris Agreement target, the authors suggest reducing floor spaces and increasing community density in low-carbon neighborhoods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Tulane scientists build high-performing hybrid solar energy converter

Researchers developed a hybrid solar energy converter that generates both electricity and thermal energy with high efficiency and low cost, enabling zero-net-energy development and greenhouse-gas-free operations. The system demonstrated 85.1% efficiency and is projected to have a system levelized cost of 3 cents per kilowatt hour.

SourceTulane University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 15, 2020

Spintronics: Faster data processing through ultrashort electric pulses

Researchers at MLU and Lanzhou University developed a simple concept for improved magnetic-based data processing using ultrashort electric pulses in the terahertz range. This enables fast and energy-efficient data storage with billions of read and write operations per second.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateJul 2, 2020
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.

New solar forecasting model performs best

A new mathematical model for solar irradiance prediction has been developed at Uppsala University and proved highly reliable. The MCM model provides accurate forecasts of solar power production fluctuations, enabling greater control over solar energy use.

SourceUppsala University·JournalSolar Energy·DateJun 28, 2020

Smart windows that self-illuminate on rainy days

Researchers at POSTECH developed a variable color filter using metal-hydrogel-metal resonator structure and combined it with solar cells to create a self-powering humidity sensor. The sensor detects changes in surroundings by converting light's energy into electricity, making it suitable for use in IoT technology.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMay 28, 2020

Winners of Stanford's first Global Energy Heroes competition announced

Three community-based organizations, Mee Panyar from Myanmar, Solar Freeze from Kenya, and Takataka Plastics from Uganda, have won the first Stanford Global Energy Heroes prizes. They will receive $20,000 and a trip to Stanford for the Global Energy Forum. The organizations are working on projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions a...

SourceStanford University·DateMay 26, 2020

Going nuclear on the moon and Mars

Nuclear fission reactors are being considered as top candidates to generate electricity in space due to their reliability and capacity. The technology has been tested and could provide a power source for several years, making it an attractive option for lunar and Martian settlements.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 20, 2020
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.

Urban heat waves imperil LA's most vulnerable communities

A new USC study highlights the disproportionate impact of urban heat waves on low-income and disadvantaged communities in LA, with over half of census tracts expected to experience more than 16 extreme heat days above 95F per year by the end of the century.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 18, 2020

UCLA researchers develop chemistry needed to create marijuana breathalyzer

UCLA chemists have reported the key chemical discovery necessary for creating a small, electronic marijuana breathalyzer. The research uses electricity to change the chemical structure of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, making it easier to detect whether a person is impaired.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalOrganic Letters·DateMay 5, 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
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.

Can sub-Saharan Africa achieve sustainable access to energy for all by 2030?

A IIASA study reveals sub-Saharan Africa needs to triple its electrification pace to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable energy services by 2030. The region faces a daunting challenge with nearly 570 million people without electricity and limited grid infrastructure in rural areas.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateApr 17, 2020

USC scientists develop a better redox flow battery

USC scientists have developed a new redox flow battery that stores electricity in solutions, sorts electrons, and releases power when needed. The technology uses iron sulfate and anthraquinone disulfonic acid (AQDS) to store electrochemical energy, with advantages over competitors in terms of cost, durability, and scalability.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateApr 9, 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.

Clemson researcher's novel MOF is potential next-gen semiconductor

A Clemson University team created a double-helical metal-organic framework with unique S-shaped charge transport pathways, enabling it to conduct electricity. The material shows promise as a next-generation semiconductor due to its energy efficiency and temperature tolerance.

SourceClemson University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 23, 2020

A flexible brain for AI

Scientists at Osaka University created a flexible computing device from field-programmable gate arrays, increasing circuit density by 12 times and reducing energy usage by 80%. This innovation may lead to custom machine learning hardware with enhanced performance and reduced electricity consumption.

SourceOsaka University·DateMar 9, 2020
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.

Say goodbye to power outages, says UBC Okanagan engineer

Researchers have designed a new approach to power system operation that uses multiple microgrids to provide electricity to smaller areas, reducing the risk of power outages. By conserving energy and using locally available generating reserves, these islanded systems can keep the lights on for longer periods.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems·DateFeb 27, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The many lives of charcoal

African charcoal production supports nomadic lifestyles, while its large-scale use contributes to deforestation. Despite efforts to regulate, charcoal remains a significant source of energy worldwide, with millions of metric tons produced annually.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalResources·DateFeb 10, 2020

Model shows how to make on-farm sustainable energy projects profitable

Researchers developed a computational model that maximizes economic return on anaerobic digestion systems, accounting for uncertainty and key factors such as farm size and species. The model identifies optimal locations, capacities, and service areas to generate profit from farm-based sustainable energy projects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalWaste Management·DateFeb 10, 2020

Cover of CHEOPS space telescope open

The CHEOPS space telescope has successfully opened its cover following a series of tests, enabling further activities including star and planet imaging. The first images are expected to be published within one or two weeks, allowing the team to assess the instrument's abilities.

SourceUniversity of Bern·DateJan 29, 2020
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.

Study examines costs of closing nuclear plants in Germany

A new study found that closing nuclear plants in Germany resulted in substantial increases in global and local air pollution, with an estimated annual social cost of $12 billion. The shift to fossil fuel-fired power also led to increased mortality rates associated with air pollution.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJan 10, 2020

Electric scooter injuries, hospital admissions in US

A recent observational study found a significant increase in electric scooter-related injuries and hospital admissions in the US from 2014 to 2018. The study highlights concerns about public safety and the need for regulatory measures to mitigate these risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJan 8, 2020

Benefits of electrification don't accrue equally for women, finds survey of homes in India

A survey of homes in rural India reveals that men dominate electricity use patterns, suggesting that households with electrified access may benefit more from male members. Despite efforts to improve female well-being through clean energy, women reported that only a quarter experienced increased time for personal activities.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 23, 2019
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.

Solar power from 'the dark side' unlocked by a new formula

A new thermodynamic formula reveals bifacial cells can generate 15-20% more sunlight to electricity than monofacial cells, taking into consideration different terrain and surfaces. The formula helps companies design more efficient next-generation solar cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2019

Electric power generation and biodiversity

A global study reveals that demand for electric power poses significant threats to biodiversity, particularly in countries where coal is a major energy source. The research suggests shifting to renewable energy sources could mitigate these impacts.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2019

Tracking emissions from US electricity consumption

The study reveals that the western United States saw the highest electrical transfers, leading to 17% of regional emissions attributed to these exports. The Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Power Pool had the largest consumption-based carbon footprint, accounting for 19% of US annual emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2019

Carbon intensity of power sector down in 2019

The US electric power sector saw a decrease in carbon intensity, with total power generation falling by 4% and CO2 emissions per megawatt-hour dropping by 9% in Q2 2019. Coal generation declined by 19% compared to the previous year, while renewable sources such as solar and wind increased their share of power generation.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·DateNov 27, 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.

Exposure to air pollutants from power plants varies by race, income and geography

A recent study found that exposure to air pollutants from power plants varies significantly by race, income, and geography in the US. The researchers estimated that in 2014, approximately 16,700 premature deaths were caused by power plant emissions, with African Americans facing the highest mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 20, 2019

Researchers design an improved pathway to carbon-neutral plastics

A new system converts CO2, water, and renewable energy into ethylene under neutral conditions, offering a carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuels. The improved catalyst reduces side products and increases selectivity for ethylene production.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2019
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.

New assessment finds EU electricity decarbonization discourse in need of overhaul

A new study challenges the EU's approach to decarbonizing its economy, arguing that it overlooks the importance of functional societal change. The researchers propose a new methodological approach to analyze complex issues like electricity decarbonization, highlighting the need for policies that motivate use changes.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateNov 18, 2019

Spinal injuries: A new technology of electrostimulation for a more effective approach

The study's innovative approach uses a multi-electrode interface to deliver variable targeted stimuli to the spinal cord, increasing the effectiveness of neurorehabilitation and potentially treating a wider range of individuals. The technology has also shown promise in diagnostics, allowing for the assessment of residual activity in th...

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateNov 13, 2019

Modeling every building in America starts with Chattanooga

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a building simulator to test energy savings in various buildings. The simulation is being tested in Chattanooga, Tennessee, as part of a partnership between the DOE and Electric Power Board.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateNov 13, 2019
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.

Straight from the source

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have uncovered a novel process by which phototrophic microbes can accept electrons from solid and soluble substances. This discovery, published in mBio, could lead to the development of bacterial platforms that feed on electricity and carbon dioxide to produce valuable compounds.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalmBio·DateNov 5, 2019

3D-printed plastics with high performance electrical circuits

Researchers have embedded high-performance electrical circuits inside 3D-printed plastics, increasing conductivity by 10-fold. This innovation could lead to smaller, more efficient drones and biomedical implants, as well as better-performing small satellites.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateNov 5, 2019
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.

Will lithium-air batteries ever take flight?

Lithium-air batteries offer a maximum specific energy of 3,460 W h/kg, but scientists need to overcome obstacles such as unstable electrolytes and interference from air pollutants. The technology uses oxygen to oxidize a lithium-metal anode and could be powered by a plane's onboard air storage and filtration systems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 30, 2019