Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Nanotechnology could help Arab region

Advances in nanotechnology can help the Arab region overcome development challenges by enhancing desalination efficiency, improving solar panel capacity, and boosting agricultural output. However, strong commitment to training scientists is crucial for addressing human resource issues.

SourceTWAS·DateFeb 20, 2010

New method makes vaccines stable at tropical temperatures

Scientists have developed a simple and cheap way to make vaccines stable at tropical temperatures, eliminating the need for refrigeration. The method involves mixing vaccines with sugars and drying them on membranes, preserving the active part of the vaccine and allowing it to be shipped at normal temperatures.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2010

Cameras of the future: heart researchers create revolutionary photographic technique

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a groundbreaking technology that combines high-resolution still images with very high-speed video footage. This innovation is expected to revolutionize various fields, including science, industry, and consumer sectors, by providing access to detailed imaging at an affordable price.

Tackling transport and environment in Africa

The Transport and Environment – Science Technology (TEST) Network aims to strengthen scientific and technological support for sustainable transport policies in Sub-Saharan Africa. The three-year project will enhance research capacity, share knowledge, and improve road safety, air pollution, and traffic congestion.

Pitt-led team gets $5.6 million contract for heart assist device for infants and toddlers

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing a heart assist device called PediaFlow to support infants and small children with congenital or acquired heart disease. The device has already shown promise in preclinical research, pulling oxygenated blood from the left ventricle through its innovative mag-lev technology.

Engineered metamaterials enable remarkably small antennas

Researchers have designed and tested experimental antennas that are highly efficient and remarkably small, potentially useful for emergency communications devices, micro-sensors, and portable ground-penetrating radars. The novel antennas radiate up to 95% of an input radio signal while defying normal design parameters.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateJan 26, 2010

Useless online student quizzes

A study published in Int. J. Information and Operations Management Education found that online quizzes are not effective in improving student learning. Despite educators' hopes, the study revealed no significant difference in grades between courses with and without online quizzes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Information and Operations Management Education·DateJan 20, 2010

Researchers develop new bushfire warning device

University of Adelaide researchers have developed a low-cost bushfire detection system that can be sent via SMS or mobile network, warning authorities and people living in fire-risk areas of impending bushfires. The system costs less than $500 to build and uses solar-powered energy, reducing running costs.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalInternational Journal of Computer Aided Engineering and Technology·DateJan 20, 2010

Harnessing the divas of the nanoworld

Researchers have grown virtual Persian carpets of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) on substrates made from simple catalysts, achieving perfect quality. The new technique enables precise control over nanotube growth, opening up possibilities for high-powered electronics and water-repellent surfaces.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJan 15, 2010

Scientists create world's first molecular transistor

Researchers from Yale University and Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology created the first transistor made from a single molecule by manipulating the energy states of a benzene molecule through gold contacts. They successfully controlled the current passing through the molecule using voltage manipulation.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateDec 23, 2009

African computer scientists recognized

Three African scientists have been awarded the inaugural TWAS-AAS-Microsoft Award for Young Scientists for their outstanding contributions to science and development in Africa. Youcef Bentoutou, Omar Fakih Hamad, and Tshilidzi Marwala will receive a cash prize of €7,000 each.

SourceTWAS·DateDec 7, 2009