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Long-term Himalayan glacier study

Researchers from Heidelberg University combined historical images and maps with current data to track glacier changes in the Nanga Parbat Massif. The study shows that the glaciers have been shrinking since the 1930s, but at a slower rate than other Himalayan regions due to avalanche activity and debris cover.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 17, 2021

Uncovering the secrets of some of the world's first color photographs

A team of researchers from EPFL's Audiovisual Communications Laboratory used historic photographic plates to study the original light and colors of century-old scenes. They found that Lippmann's method captured 26-64 spectral samples, far more than modern techniques, and were able to recreate the original light using an algorithm.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2021

New nondestructive optical technique reveals the structure of mother-of-pearl

A new technique, hyperspectral interference tomography, has been developed to study the structure of nacre, a biomineral found in mother-of-pearl. This nondestructive method allows for the assessment of nacre layer thickness, which records temperature and can be used to analyze fossil mollusk shells and learn about past climates.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2021

New study finds false memories can be reversed

A new study from the University of Portsmouth and Universities of Hagen and Mainz found that false memories can be reversed using specific interview techniques. The research involved implanting false memories in participants and then using strategies to help them retract these false recollections, while leaving their true memories intact.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2021

All-optical method sets record for ultrafast high-spatial-resolution imaging: 15 trillion frames per second

Scientists have developed an all-optical imaging system that captures ultrafast dynamic processes at a record-breaking frame rate of 15 trillion frames per second. The method uses non-collinear optical parametric amplifiers, allowing for high spatial and temporal resolutions, and has the potential to become a new microscopy technique.

Creating buzz with potential end-users helps entrepreneurs with crowdfunding campaigns

A study by University of Oregon researchers found that companies that successfully engage with their target audience and incorporate feedback into their prototypes are more likely to reach their fundraising goals and attract media coverage. Engaging with potential end-users early on can create buzz and increase the chances of success i...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalOrganization Science·DateApr 30, 2020

Living bridges

Researchers studied traditional Khasi building techniques for living root bridges, which can reach over 50 meters in length and withstand centuries. The bridges' complex root structure provides stable and safe passage, while also serving as a natural cooling system for cities.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 18, 2019

Shaping light with a smartlens

A team of researchers from ICFO demonstrates an adjustable technique to manipulate light without mechanical movement, enabling the creation of dynamically tuneable lenses with high control and low power consumption. The Smartlens technology has potential applications in high-end systems and simple end-user-oriented imaging devices.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 26, 2019

Fingerprints, revisited

Researchers are developing methods to extract DNA and analyze chemicals from fingerprints, improving identification rates. These techniques involve analyzing molecules like DNA, amino acids, or explosives left behind in fingerprints.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 13, 2019

Machine learning to the rescue

The team aims to develop a sorting-machine prototype using pupae images and machine-learning algorithms to process tens of thousands of images daily. They also design a robot to sort the pupae based on the result of the algorithm, with the goal of reducing tsetse populations in sub-Saharan Africa.