A new study in Journal of Consumer Research finds that flashy launches can backfire if products are truly innovative. Consumers get anxious when they can't understand a product's functionality, especially in stimulating retail environments.
The authors compared the effects of continuous versus bandwidth haptic steering guidance on drivers' ability to stay in their lane and overall satisfaction. They found that bandwidth guidance was more effective at preventing errors and improving performance. The study's findings have implications for human-automation interaction/autonomy.
The University of Hawaii's Hawai'i Center for Advanced Communications has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to develop innovative solutions for improving radio spectrum utilization. The project aims to provide reliable broadband wireless service to remote and rural areas in the Hawaiian Islands and beyond.
Researchers have made significant advancements in additive manufacturing using laser solid forming (LSF) to produce high-performance metallic components. The LSF technique allows for the direct fabrication of metallic components with excellent mechanical properties similar to those produced by casting or forging.
NJIT has been awarded a $5.67 million grant from the Department of Defense to support New Jersey's defense industry. The project, known as MarketShift, aims to help companies develop new products for existing markets and expand into non-defense markets.
The CURF Technology Maturation Fund supports the development of Clemson technologies, increasing the likelihood of commercialization. Five Clemson researchers received funding ranging from $20,000 to $36,000 each.
Dr. Mark Hersam, an ONR-supported scientist, has won a $625,000 MacArthur Fellowship for his work on graphene and nanoelectronics, which could lead to advancements in electronics, medical devices, and renewable energy for the Navy. The award recognizes his exceptional creativity and promise for future breakthroughs.
A five-year project will create a large, distributed infrastructure called LearnSphere to securely store data on student learning. By accessing over 550 datasets, course developers and instructors can improve teaching and learning through data-driven design.
The Daya Bay Collaboration's new result shows no evidence for a sterile neutrino in a previously unexplored mass range. The absence of detection supports the standard three-flavor neutrino picture, but leaves room for future experiments to explore this possibility.
A research team drilled and measured melt rates and ice sheet movement in Greenland, finding that subglacial channels are less important than previously thought. Changes in hydraulically isolated regions of the bed control the evolution of subglacial drainage over summer.
Researchers from University of Southern Denmark and Institute of Chemical Technology in Prague have successfully created moving alcohol droplets in water, guided by salt concentration gradients. The system displays sophisticated behavior and can be controlled by external temperature stimulus.
Researchers from UT Dallas have created a new technology that can extend the power life of wearable computers and smartphones. The technology uses a single electron to control energy consumption inside transistors, reducing operating voltage and increasing signal strength.
A new wearable medical device can quickly alert a person to cardiovascular trouble or skin dryness, using thousands of liquid crystals to sense heat. The device provides sub-millimeter spatial resolution for accurate monitoring of temperature and thermal transport characteristics.
North Carolina State University researchers aim to improve educational software by incorporating facial expression, body language, speech, and other cues to respond to students' emotional states. The goal is to customize program responses based on verbal and nonverbal cues.
A study by University of Nottingham researchers found that smart meters displaying individual and communal energy usage can lead to feelings of shame, anger, and guilt among housemates. This may result in increased conflict and negative emotions, particularly when one or more housemates are free-riding on others' energy usage.
Engineers at the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering are proposing enhanced modeling and simulation technology and new qualification standards for additive manufacturing. The research aims to improve quality and product integrity while reducing manufacturing time and costs.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed graphene-treated nanowires as a cost-effective alternative to indium tin oxide (ITO) for touchscreen technology. This innovative material can produce flexible displays at a fraction of the current cost, making it an attractive option for manufacturers.
A team of researchers at Michigan Technological University has published an open-source library of syringe pump designs, making it cheaper for scientists to access this essential laboratory equipment. The designs can be printed on a 3D printer using inexpensive plastic filament and are customizable for specific experimental needs.
Researchers at University of Missouri have created a water-based nuclear battery that generates electrical energy from radioactive isotopes. The battery uses strontium-90 to boost electrochemical energy in a water-based solution, making it suitable for applications such as spaceflight and emergency equipment.
A team of University of Pittsburgh professors is working on a project to transition the US power grid to direct current (DC) using a $800,000 grant from the Henry L. Hillman Foundation. DC technology has the potential to improve energy efficiency and promote renewable energy, especially in low-income areas. The researchers aim to devel...
Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have developed a new method for synthesizing ultrahard fullerite, a material with hardness values ranging from 150 to 300 GPa, surpassing diamond. The breakthrough synthesis requires lower pressures and can be achieved at room temperature, enabling industrial-scale production.
The proposed platform would leverage the cloud to expand individual device capabilities, supporting applications like healthcare, safety, and social interaction. The technology could also enable real-time searches of cell phone photos taken by people in the area to locate lost children.
The Wyss Institute is further developing its Soft Exosuit technology, a wearable robot designed to assist soldiers with heavy loads. The suit mimics the action of leg muscles and tendons when walking, providing small but careful assistance at joints without restricting movement.
The pilot project aims to inspire other scientists to collect oceanographic data globally using private yachts as floating microbial observatories. The data collected will be hosted and analyzed at the University of Technology Sydney, providing a valuable resource for researchers worldwide.
A UNSW Australia-led team pioneers citizen oceanography by having recreational sailors collect and test data from remote waters on their yachts. This cost-effective approach demonstrated that scientists can gather large quantities of information as they sail around the world, advancing the field of oceanography.
A team of researchers at Monash University has developed a light detector based on graphene that can detect light over an unusually broad range of wavelengths, including terahertz waves. This breakthrough could lead to inexpensive infrared cameras or night-vision goggles with unparalleled sensitivity and speed.
The project aims to create a mobile app that enables park visitors to learn about the park's history, ecology, and scientific features while contributing to citizen science. The app will be available for download on Apple and Android devices and will allow users to log in and save their findings.
Three Clemson startup companies, VRM Labs, ConnectTiss LLC, and Addictive Drug Delivery LLC, have received $25,000 in seed money from the University Sponsored Application Program. The companies are commercializing technologies developed at Clemson to address various industries such as pet food, aging skin, and surgical meshes.
The Hartman Foundation is investing $300,000 in the co-op program to provide real-world learning experiences for engineering students. The foundation aims to increase participation and make the program more accessible.
Researchers found that crowdsourcing openness makes it susceptible to malicious behavior, including sabotaging progress and submitting misinformation. The study published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface highlights the need for effective deterrents against attackers.
Renowned Monash rheologist Professor Tam Sridhar has been awarded the ASR Medallion for his distinguished contributions to rheology science and technology. He is the fifth recipient of this award in the past 20 years, recognizing his exceptional service to the field.
Casey Diekman is leading a research effort to understand the biological clock's role in regulating daily behavior patterns. Preliminary results suggest that circadian rhythms are deeply encoded in neuronal electrical programming, influencing hormone production and other physiological indicators.
The NSF has awarded two grants to expand its National Innovation Network through the I-Corps program, supporting innovation education, research, and infrastructure in Southern California and Texas. The new nodes will join five existing regional hubs, fostering mentorship, research, and entrepreneurship.
Researchers have developed a new method using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy to distinguish between gutter oil and safe, edible oil. The technique uses principal component analysis and artificial neural networks to detect toxic substances like bacteria and heavy metals.
Researchers successfully tested a ZigBee wireless sensor network in space, demonstrating the feasibility of using this technology for satellite communication. The experiment achieved remarkable inter-satellite communications over long distances, with theoretical estimates suggesting a range of up to 15.552 km.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are part of a six-institution consortium creating CloudLab, a new instrument allowing scientists to run huge or very complex experiments on an enormous and flexible shared network of reliable, secure and fast computers. The project will distribute $10 million in funding among partner institutions.
A new study from Georgetown University's Institute for Reproductive Health reports on the successful large-scale implementation of the Standard Days Method in Rwanda, a highly effective fertility awareness-based family planning method. The study highlights the importance of systematic monitoring and evaluation in scaling up health inno...
A team of researchers has developed a technology that allows materials to automatically read their environment and adapt to mimic their surroundings. The optoelectronic camouflage system was inspired by the skins of cephalopods, which can change coloration quickly for camouflage and warning purposes.
Researchers argue that 'transport taboos' such as frequent travel and lobby influence are driving contradictory policies. Politicians ignore evidence on effective solutions to cut emissions, instead relying on optimistic headlines about technological innovation.
The University of California, Davis's STAIR Grant program provides funding and support for innovative research, allowing selected researchers to generate early proof-of-concept models. The four finalists have been awarded $50,000 each to develop their projects into commercial applications.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a lithium-based neutron detector for various applications, including medical imaging and national security. The Li-Foil Neutron Detector is more cost-effective than helium-3 based detectors due to advancements in lithium foil manufacturing.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have identified two genes, RAS and JAK, that are mutated in most cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. This discovery may lead to more targeted treatment protocols with fewer side effects for these patients.
Four winning projects address postoperative complications, visual impairments, tube feeding issues and neonatal urine collection. The first place team will receive $20,000 for their AccuSpine device improving spinal fusion procedures.
Researchers used 3D models of the woodpecker to understand its anti-shock biomechanical structure, which stores most impact energy in the body and reduces it in the head. This study could provide guidance for designing anti-shock devices and structures for humans.
A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found significant differences in tactile sense and two-point discrimination among healthy subjects at different times of the day. Highest perceptual ability was observed in the evening compared to morning and noon.
The discovery of the plant phytochrome's three-dimensional structure may enable the development of technologies to grow plants at higher densities, increasing crop yields and reducing resource usage. By manipulating the light sensor, researchers can alter the conditions under which plants grow and develop.
A team of researchers, led by Dr. Maximilian Schich, reconstructed the migration and mobility patterns of 150,000 individuals over two millennia using network and complexity science. The study found non-intuitive patterns, including laws of migration, and challenged traditional notions of cultural centers.
Scientists have found that venom proteins in invasive lionfish may be acting as ciguatoxin mimics, leading to false positives in testing. Cooking or boiling lionfish samples before testing can help ensure safe consumption.
The Wyss Institute has commercialized its 'Organs-on-Chips' technology, which mimics human organs on a microchip, for pharmaceutical and personalized medicine applications. The new company, Emulate Inc., aims to reduce animal testing and accelerate drug development.
A new AI algorithm analyzes the Beatles' albums, demonstrating a progressive change in their musical style from one album to the next. The algorithm was also applied to other bands, such as Queen and U2, with notable results.
Studies have shown that wireless home automation systems can be vulnerable to attacks, allowing hackers to gain insight into users' behavioral patterns. Even encrypted systems can provide valuable information to third parties, putting inhabitants' privacy at risk.
Researchers successfully ran 10,240 parallel simulations of global weather using Japan's K computer, achieving a significant improvement in forecasting accuracy. The study found that faraway observations can have an immediate impact on weather forecasts, highlighting the need for advanced methods to utilize this data.
Researchers developed a biodegradable nerve conduit using genipin-cross-linked gelatin and beta-tricalcium phosphate, combining it with diode laser therapy to repair long-gap sciatic nerves. The study found that this combination accelerated nerve regeneration, improved reinnervation rates, and enhanced muscle recruitment.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research shows that consumers who attribute their successes to internal character traits rather than hard work are more likely to seek out unique options. Brands can leverage this insight by emphasizing consumer uniqueness with terms like 'you're special'.
Researchers developed a new protein biomarker test platform that can accurately measure multiple proteins indicative of diseases like graft-versus-host disease. The test uses aqueous two-phase systems and no washing steps, enabling simultaneous measurement of multiple diagnostic proteins.
Researchers at TU/e Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a new technology that can store data a thousand times faster than current methods by utilizing the 'spin current' property of electrons. This innovation enables faster switch times and opens up possibilities for future optical computer chips.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new holography technology based on nanoantennas, enabling dynamic and complex three-dimensional projections without replotted images. The technology has vast applications in security, medical, recreational, and scientific research.
A Northwestern University team has developed a new technology using indium arsenide/indium arsenide antimonide (InAs/InAsSb) for stable infrared detection, enabling the observation of cooler objects in deep space. This advancement paves the way for enhanced exploration and unlocking the mysteries of these cooler objects.
The study found that minimally invasive robotic surgery increased adverse events two-fold between 2003-2009. Surgeons recommend standardized training programs and credentialing standards to reduce risks.
Researchers have determined how light beams excite chemicals in solar panels, producing charge. The findings open avenues for future research into designing more efficient solar cells.