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Shining new light on solar cell development

Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to boost the performance of silicon photovoltaic cells. By adding passivating contacts, they significantly reduce electrical losses and increase productivity.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalSolar·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Overcoming the optical resolution limit

Researchers from the University of Kassel developed an approach to extend the limits of interferometric topography measurements for optical resolution below small structures. Microsphere assistance enables fast and label-free imaging without requiring extensive sample preparation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateNov 1, 2022

Tracking trust in human-robot work interactions

Researchers at Texas A&M University used functional near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor participant responses during human-robot collaborations. They found that faulty robot actions decreased operator trust and associated it with increased brain activity in the frontal, motor, and visual cortices.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateNov 1, 2022

Recent progress in synthesis and surface modification of nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers from South China University of Technology have developed novel surface modification techniques for nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials, improving their electrochemical performance. The techniques allow for high-performance nickel-rich cathode materials to be synthesized, enabling in-depth mechanisms to be captured a...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 31, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Advances in selective laser sintering of polymers

Researchers at Fudan University reviewed fundamental mechanisms and recent developments in selective laser sintering of polymers. The study highlights the need for innovative materials, sintering methods, and post-processing techniques to improve the efficiency and performance of SLS polymer parts.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 30, 2022

The Israeli coastline is contaminated with over two tons of microplastics

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the Israeli shoreline is contaminated with more than two million tons of microplastics, with Tel Aviv and Hadera beaches being the most polluted. The researchers warn that exposure to microplastic waste is unavoidable and poses a risk to human health.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateOct 30, 2022

New $1.25 million research project will map materials at the nanoscale

A University of Central Florida researcher is leading a $1.25 million project to map and manipulate materials at the nanoscale. The research aims to unlock new capabilities of materials at the nanoscale, potentially leading to new catalysts and compounds applicable in quantum science, renewable energy, life sciences and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateOct 27, 2022
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.

Innovative incubator to jumpstart efforts to control harmful algal blooms

The US Harmful Algal Bloom Control Technology Incubator aims to advance innovative ways to control blooms impacting marine ecosystems and regional economies. The partnership between UMCES and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium will offer funding and guidance for innovative control technology projects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateOct 24, 2022

Data sharing platform Vivli expands access to clinical trials data

Vivli's generalist repository is the largest clinical trial repository in the world, providing managed access to over 6,600 trials. The platform has contributed to over 100 publications and features a COVID-19 portal with quick data addition capabilities.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 19, 2022
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.

Digital transformation in construction industry requires more support, study shows

A recent study published in Engineering Construction & Architectural Management identified the main obstacles preventing digital transformation in the engineering and construction industry. The three main problems are a lack of laws and regulations, a lack of support and leadership, and a lack of resources and professionals.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEngineering Construction & Architectural Management·TypeSurvey·DateOct 14, 2022

Wastewater alert: research highlights antimicrobial resistance risk

Research by the University of Exeter found high levels of antibiotic ciprofloxacin in UK wastewater, posing a significant risk to human health. The study suggests that antibiotic pollution from human waste can increase resistance to antibiotics, even in countries with well-established sanitation infrastructures.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment International·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2022

Ethylene fabricated by cations

A research team from POSTECH and KAIST found that cations play a crucial role in converting CO2 into valuable chemical products like ethylene. The study reveals a new mechanism for high-performance catalytic conditions, paving the way for carbon-neutral technologies.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2022
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.

New research tackles rose rosette, black spot diseases

A new project aims to develop sustainable roses resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses, and have high ornamental quality. The researchers are combining traditional plant breeding with molecular genetics to stack multiple resistance genes into a rose.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateOct 7, 2022

Europe can rapidly eliminate imports of Russian natural gas

A team of researchers developed a power sector model to analyze pathways to full independence from Russian natural gas imports. The study found that Europe can eliminate reliance on Russian gas by augmenting REPowerEU plans with temporary boosts in coal and recalibrated gas storage.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJoule·DateOct 5, 2022
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.

Clean hydrogen: A long-awaited solution for hard-to-abate sectors?

New research models the value of clean hydrogen in decarbonizing heavy industries and transportation in China. A widespread application of clean hydrogen in HTA sectors can save $1.72 trillion in investment costs and avoid a 0.13% loss in aggregate GDP.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 29, 2022

Dog—human bonds could guide development of social robots

Researchers identified 7 core categories of behaviors important for human-dog bonds, including attunement, communication, and physical affection. These behaviors may be incorporated into robotic systems to provide mental health benefits for humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 2022

Powerful Bragg reflector with ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial

A research team at POSTECH and Sungkyunkwan University has developed an ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial that maximizes light-matter interaction. The material recorded the highest-ever refractive index of 7.8 in visible and near-infrared regions, enabling strong reflection of specific wavelengths.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 27, 2022

Experts agree: Dairy cattle's welfare worse than beef cattle

A new international study finds that dairy cows and their calves experience worse welfare than beef cattle. The researchers' assessment of bovine welfare risks is based on expert opinions from around the world.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·Journalanimal·TypeSurvey·DateSep 27, 2022

New nanocomposite films boost heat dissipation in thin electronics

Scientists developed a cellulose nanofiber-carbon fiber composite film with excellent in-plane anisotropic thermal conductivity, improving heat dissipation in thin-film devices. The material also exhibits recyclability and can be reused after burning the cellulose matrix.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Rapid land sinking is making many coastal cities worldwide vulnerable to sea level rise, finds international group of scientists

A team of international scientists found that many densely populated coastal cities worldwide are at risk from sea level rise due to land subsidence. The study used satellite images to estimate the rate of land sinking in 48 cities, with median speeds ranging from 16.2mm/year to 43mm/year.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 20, 2022

Pitt geologists mapped how metal pollutants have traveled across the city

Geologists mapped how historical coking and smelting led to toxic metal pollutants in Pittsburgh's soil, particularly in the eastern half of the city. The team found that concentrations of soil metals were higher in valleys influenced by rivers, with cadmium posing a lesser-known risk.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2022

A breakthrough discovery in carbon capture conversion for ethylene production

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago developed a method to convert 100% of captured carbon dioxide into ethylene, producing hydrocarbons with high purity. The process uses electrolysis and can recycle almost all carbon dioxide captured, making it carbon negative when powered by renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

£1.2m grant to revolutionise product design and manufacturing

Researchers aim to create crack-resistant, uniform materials with reduced residual stresses and porosity for use in AM. The project will combine the best processing features of existing alloys groups, resulting in lightweight, rigid, and thermally stable components.

SourceOxford Brookes University·DateSep 5, 2022
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.

Why digital transformation projects fail and how data architecture can help

Researchers identified 'data architecture' as crucial for successful digital transformation, finding that legacy systems hinder integration and adoption. A coherent data architecture enables firms to automate data processing, integrate large datasets, and develop machine learning models.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Digital Economy·TypeObservational study·DateSep 4, 2022

Specialty and standard coffee beans can be sorted using multispectral imaging and artificial intelligence

A Brazilian research team has developed a novel method to sort specialty and standard coffee beans using multispectral imaging and machine learning. The technique, which does not require roasting or human intervention, uses images of the beans at different wavelengths to distinguish between quality levels.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·DateAug 30, 2022

Mixing things up: optimizing fluid mixing with machine learning

A team of Japanese researchers used reinforcement learning to study fluid mixing during laminar flow, achieving exponentially fast mixing without prior knowledge. The method also enabled effective transfer learning, reducing training time for new mixing problems, and has potential applications across various industries.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 29, 2022
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.

Silicon image sensor that computes

Researchers developed a silicon photodiode array for in-sensor processing, allowing for real-time image filtering and extraction of relevant visual information. The technology has potential applications in machine vision, bio-inspired systems, and intelligent imaging devices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 26, 2022

Powering an ‘arm’ with air could be mighty handy

Researchers at Rice University have developed a pneumatic robotic arm powered by compressed air that can grasp objects and go, using textile-based energy harvesting system. The device is designed for individuals with disabilities and can produce equivalent of 3 watts of power, outperforming other energy harvesting strategies.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022

Concordia researchers present a blueprint for building green

A new paper from Concordia University's Next-Generation Cities Institute outlines the challenges and realities of sustainable real estate development. The study identifies key stakeholders and building life-cycle processes to reduce carbon footprint. Cities can use municipal policies and incentives, such as fast-track zoning and densit...

SourceConcordia University·JournalSustainability·TypeCase study·DateAug 25, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Digging through patents to make mining greener

Researchers from Kyushu University analyzed global patent applications to identify R&D strategies for sustainable mining technologies. The study found that the Paris Agreement and raw metal price trends influence CCMT development, with varying degrees of impact by country.

SourceKyushu University·JournalResources Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2022

Robots, AI not as welcomed in nations where income inequity is high

A new study by the University of Central Florida reveals that workers in countries with greater income inequality are more likely to perceive robots and artificial intelligence as job threats. This association was found despite the potential benefits of these technologies to improve work and increase flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalTechnology Mind and Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2022
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.

What happens to the waste after an oil spill clean up?

Researchers developed a lifecycle assessment-based framework to manage offshore oil spill cleanup waste. The study suggests combining centrifugation and landfilling as the most suitable remediation approach for low-impact spills.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 17, 2022

Overcoming a major manufacturing constraint

Researchers characterize material properties of IP-Q using Raman spectroscopy and nanoindentation, revealing elastic parameters and their effects on acoustic behavior. The study optimizes elastic parameters for TPP-fabricated structures, benefiting applications in life science, mobility, and industry.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateAug 12, 2022
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.

Surprisingly simple chemistry enables polyurethane recycling

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a new and inexpensive way to recycle polyurethane (PU) plastic by breaking it down into its original components. The method uses a simple chemical reaction involving alcohol, caustic potash, and an autoclave, making it cheaper and more scalable than previous methods.

SourceAarhus University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 11, 2022

New mining professor wins SME career boost grant

Associate Professor Angelina Anani has won a $300,000 career development grant from the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration to support her research on mine planning and operations. She plans to use virtual and augmented reality technologies to optimize industry decisions and minimize risks.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 11, 2022

Engineering enzymes to help solve the planet’s plastic problem

Researchers developed a new enzyme that can degrade poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles. The enzyme, HotPETase, is thermostable and selectively breaks down PET, offering a potential solution to the global plastic waste challenge.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 11, 2022

Building the best zeolite

Researchers have developed new methods to prepare state-of-the-art zeolites with nano-sized dimensions and hierarchical structures, critical for industrial applications. The findings emphasize the importance of smaller size and structure in determining performance.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Synthesis·DateAug 11, 2022
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.

Whether it’s medical records, blood or tissue, patients want to know if researchers may use something from them

A new study suggests that members of the public want to know if their health information or samples from their bodies will be used in research or to help develop new biomedical products. The study found that patients are more likely to want notification about research use of their health information than biospecimens.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2022

Oil-based systems show promise for eradicating salmonella on food production machinery

A new study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that oil formulations with food-grade organic acids can kill dried Salmonella on stainless steel surfaces. This approach has the potential to replace water-based cleaning methods, which promote microbial growth and are often challenging to use.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2022

Molybdenum caught holding the hydrogen

Researchers at KAUST have found that molybdenum plays a central role in electrochemical hydride transfer, a process for producing valuable chemicals or carbon-free fuels. The discovery could enable more sustainable production of sustainable fuels and chemicals.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 2, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Physicists identify new properties of matter solidification

Researchers at Ural Federal University developed a mathematical model explaining anomalous behavior in melts, which can lead to creating materials with specific properties. The model accounts for nucleation and crystal growth, reducing supercooling and narrowing the two-phase layer.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 27, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Preterm birth is more likely with exposure to phthalates

A Rutgers researcher contributed to a National Institutes of Health study confirming a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of preterm birth. The study examined data from 6,045 pregnant women in the U.S., finding that higher concentrations of phthalate metabolites were associated with slightly higher odds of preterm birth.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 22, 2022