ScienceDaily: Technology - November 04, 2024
Top technology research news
Using mathematics to better understand cause and effect
A new method for determining causality gives scientists a more holistic view of the causal role that contributing factors play within just about any system.
Image: GoodIdeas/Shutterstock.com
Research uses lasers to detect landmines, underground objects
Enough landmines are buried underground worldwide to circle Earth twice at the equator, but the identification and removal of these explosives is costly and time-consuming. New research could help solve the problem.
Revolutionary high-speed 3D bioprinter hailed a game changer for drug discovery
Biomedical engineers have invented a 3D printing system, or bioprinter, capable of fabricating structures that closely mimic the diverse tissues in the human body, from soft brain tissue to harder materials like cartilage and bone.
Revealing causal links in complex systems
SURD, an algorithm, reveals causal links in complex systems. Applications may include forecasting climate to projecting population growth to designing efficient aircraft.
Fueling greener aviation with hydrogen
Despite ongoing efforts to curb CO2 emissions with electric and hybrid vehicles, other forms of transportation remain significant contributors of greenhouse gases. To address this issue, old technologies are being revamped to make them greener, such as the reintroduction of sailing vessels in shipping and new uses for hydrogen in aviation. Now, researchers have used computer modeling to study the feasibility and challenges of hydrogen-powered aviation.
Improving energy production by boosting singlet fission process
Singlet fission (SF) is an exciton amplification phenomenon in which two triplet excitons are generated from a singlet exciton produced by the absorption of a single photon in chromophores. A team of researchers has demonstrated that SF can be promoted by introducing chirality and controlling chromophore orientation and arrangement. Their innovative study is expected to promote diverse applications in energy science, quantum, and information materials science, photocatalysis, solar cells, and life science.
NASA's Hubble, Webb probe surprisingly smooth disk around Vega
Teams of astronomers used the combined power of NASA's Hubble and James Webb space telescopes to revisit the legendary Vega disk.
Research shows therapeutic virtual yoga program can be effective for chronic low back pain
Researchers found that a 12-week therapeutic virtual yoga program for chronic low back pain can be a feasible, safe and effective treatment option.
Microplastics increasing in freshwater, directly related to plastic production
Microplastics have been steadily increasing in freshwater environments for decades and are directly tied to rising global plastic production since the 1950s, according to a new study by an interdisciplinary team. The findings provide insight into how microplastics move and spread in freshwater environments, which could be important for creating long-term solutions to reduce pollution, the researchers said.
Autistic traits shape how we explore
People with stronger autistic trails showed distinct exploration patterns and higher levels of persistence in a computer game, ultimately resulting in better performance than people with lower scores of autistic traits, according to a new study.
According to Bredt's rule, double bonds cannot exist at certain positions on organic molecules if the molecule's geometry deviates too far from what we learn in textbooks. This rule has constrained chemists for a century. Chemists have now shown how to make molecules that violate Bredt's rule, allowing chemists to find practical ways to make and use them in reactions.
New methods for whale tracking and rendezvous using autonomous robots
Today, a research team has proposed a new reinforcement learning framework with autonomous drones to find sperm whales and predict where they will surface.
Immune system review provides insight into more effective biotechnology
As critical responders, macrophages can perceive helpful biotechnology as threats. If not created with the right materials or mechanical forces, these devices can trigger an immune response that can cause inflammation, scar tissue or device failure.
A novel neural network for preserving cultural heritage via 3D image reconstruction
Relief-type cultural heritage objects are commonly found in many historical sites worldwide, but often suffer from varying levels of damage and deterioration. Traditional methods for image reconstruction require extensive manual labor and specialized knowledge. Now, researchers have developed a novel neural network model that can reconstruct these reliefs as three-dimensional digital images from old photographs containing their pre-damage information. This innovative technology paves the way for accurate digital preservation of valuable cultural heritage objects.
New ESO image captures a dark wolf in the sky
For Halloween, the European Southern Observatory (ESO) reveals a spooktacular image of a dark nebula that creates the illusion of a wolf-like silhouette against a colourful cosmic backdrop. Fittingly nicknamed the Dark Wolf Nebula, it was captured in a 283-million-pixel image by the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at ESO's Paranal Observatory in Chile.
New method successfully recycles carbon fiber composite into reusable materials
New process addresses a current environmental challenge in the transportation and energy sectors.
Study reveals impact of modified ball regulations on game performance in handball
Researchers have revealed that the introduction of a new ball made from a small, easy-to-grip material in U15 girls' handball has led to improved attack efficiency compared with the conventional ball. However, the goalkeeper save rate was lower, indicating the need for technical and tactical coaching for goalkeepers.
Successful development of a perfect diamagnetic conducting polymer
Researchers have synthesized a conducting polymer, polyaniline, exhibiting perfect diamagnetic properties, which eliminate external magnetic fields within the material. These properties are typically associated with superconductors. While conducting polymers generally display paramagnetism -- where they are weakly attracted to magnetic fields -- this breakthrough marks the first step towards developing a conducting material that demonstrates diamagnetism, the opposite of paramagnetic behavior.
High-tech tracking technology streamlines drug discovery
A team has developed a large-scale drug screening technique that can track target molecule behavior within cells. The researchers verified their technique by testing the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a known target for cancer drugs. Their drug screening resulted in the identification of the known drugs, as well as others that were not previously known to affect EGFR. This new method can potentially help develop new drugs and repurpose existing drugs.
Researchers developed tiny wearable devices for cells that can snugly enfold neurons and neuronal processes without damaging the cell. These thin-film wearables, made from a soft polymer, could enable scientists to measure and modulate neurons at a subcellular level.
Researcher finds AI could help improve city planning
The new research shows that using generative artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT and Google's Gemini could improve city planning by enhancing access to tools that help measure walkability, safety, lighting, and more.
A trick of light: Researchers turn silicon into direct bandgap semiconductor
Researchers have come up with a way to turn silicon into a direct bandgap semiconductor, opening the door to the manufacture of ultrathin silicon solar cells.
Development of a simple, revolutionary printing technique for periodic nano/microstructures
A team of researchers has developed a printing technique capable of forming a periodic nano/microstructure on the surface of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) slab and easily transferring it onto the surface of a glass substrate. This technique enables us to create materials with useful functions -- including water-repellency and the ability to generate structural colors -- without expensive equipment and complex processes. In addition, the technique may be used to fabricate materials capable of realizing anti-fogging and/or generating structural colors on their surfaces -- functions potentially useful in the development of innovative gas sensors.
A newly developed algorithm shows how a gene is expressed at microscopic resolution
Researchers have developed a computational technique that makes spatial RNA transcripts more accessible and precise, allowing them to be visualized at microscopic resolution.
Researchers have developed a compact, wearable ultrasound device that monitors muscle activity. Attachable to the skin with an adhesive and powered by a small battery, the device wirelessly captures high-resolution images of muscle movements, enabling continuous, long-term monitoring. When worn on the rib cage, it effectively monitored diaphragm function for respiratory health assessments. When worn on the forearm, it accurately captured hand gestures, allowing users to control a robotic arm and even navigate virtual games. This new technology has potential applications in healthcare for conditions affecting muscle function, as well as in human-machine interfaces for more natural robotic control.
The silk thread that can turn clothes into charging stations
Imagine a sweater that powers electronics to monitor your health or charge your mobile phone while running. This development faces challenges because of the lack of materials that both conduct electricity stably and are well suited for textiles. Now a research group presents an ordinary silk thread, coated with a conductive plastic material, that shows promising properties for turning textiles into electricity generators.
A paper-aluminum combo for strong, sustainable packaging
Takeout containers get your favorite noodles from the restaurant to your dining table (or couch) without incident, but they are nearly impossible to recycle if they are made from foil-lined plastics. Research suggests that replacing the plastic layer with paper could create a more sustainable packaging material. The researchers used mechanical demonstrations and computer simulations to identify paper-aluminum laminate designs that won't compromise on performance.
Off the clothesline, on the grid: MXene nanomaterials enable wireless charging in textiles
The next step for fully integrated textile-based electronics to make their way from the lab to the wardrobe is figuring out how to power the garment gizmos without unfashionably toting around a solid battery. Researchers have taken a new approach to the challenge by building a full textile energy grid that can be wirelessly charged. In their recent study, the team reported that it can power textile devices, including a warming element and environmental sensors that transmit data in real-time.
Porous dermal fillers show promise for diabetic wound treatment
Researchers have developed a revolutionary injectable granular filler that could transform the way diabetic wounds are treated, potentially improving patient outcomes. The groundbreaking study introduced an innovative approach about using specialized porous dermal fillers that accelerate tissue healing and regeneration.
A new paradigm for control of quantum emitters
A research team developed a new paradigm for the control of quantum emitters, providing a new method for modulating and encoding quantum photonic information on a single photon light stream.
Personal info and privacy control may be key to better visits with AI doctors
Artificial intelligence (AI) may one day play a larger role in medicine than the online symptom checkers available today. But these 'AI doctors' may need to get more personal than human doctors to increase patient satisfaction, according to a new study. Researchers found that the more social information an AI doctor recalls about patients, the higher the patients' satisfaction, but only if they were offered privacy control.
How local governments can lead the way in decarbonizing the U.S.
The success of the $1 trillion that was recently invested by the U.S. federal government to mitigate climate climate change through the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law largely depends on how well state and local governments spend the money, according to new a commentary.
New Illinois study explores adoption of robotic weeding to fight superweeds
Most corn and soybean fields in the U.S. are planted with herbicide-resistant crop varieties. However, the evolution of superweeds that have developed resistance to common herbicides is jeopardizing current weed management strategies. Agricultural robotics for mechanical weeding is an emerging technology that could potentially provide a solution. A new study looks at the types of farmers and fields more likely to adopt weeding robots and at what stage of resistance development.
Laser measurements to track space debris and observe water masses
More accurate orbit predictions for satellites and space debris as well as a better understanding of the water masses present on Earth: Researchers at achieved both using satellite laser ranging.
Spin current observations from organic semiconductor side
Researchers have succeeded in observing the effects of spin current transfer and spin current generation from the non-magnetic side of a device, using a multilayer device consisting of a ferromagnetic layer and an organic semiconductor material.
Keeping close watch on stem cells
Researchers have developed a new imagining system to monitor pluripotent stem cells during incubation. The new device -- INSPCTOR -- uses lens-free imaging technology integrated with thin-film transistors. The device is the same size as a standard culture plate, allowing multiple units to be monitored within a compact incubator. By improving quality control during the growth process, this innovation could help accelerate advancements in customized regenerative medicine.
It's not to be. Universe too short for Shakespeare typing monkeys
It would take far longer than the lifespan of our universe for a typing monkey to randomly produce Shakespeare, a new study reveals.
Nanoplastics can reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics
An international research team has investigated how nanoplastic particles deposited in the body affect the effectiveness of antibiotics. The study showed that the plastic particles not only impair the effect of the drugs, but could also promote the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Faster space communication with record-sensitive receiver
In space exploration, long-distance optical links can now be used to transmit images, films and data from space probes to Earth using light. But in order for the signals to reach all the way and not be disturbed along the way, hypersensitive receivers and noise-free amplifiers are required. Now, researchers have created a system that, with a silent amplifier and record-sensitive receiver, paves the way for faster and improved space communication.
Precision robotics offers hope for heart disease treatment
The advanced drug testing system screens multiple potential therapies simultaneously in beating heart cells.
One of the fastest-spinning stars in the Universe
New research in our Milky Way has revealed a neutron star that rotates around its axis at an extremely high speed. It spins 716 times per second, making it one of the fastest-spinning objects ever observed.
Paving the way for polymer design
A research study describes a systematic high-throughput design approach for virtual screening and creation of novel polypeptide-based molecules that form regular secondary structures that can be used in biology or materials science research.
In the search for more sustainable uses of cellulose, scientists have developed a production method for a nanofibrous cellulose matrix, which has the potential to replace non-renewable industrial even in biomedical applications.
Smart sensor patch detects health symptoms through edge computing
Edge computing on a smartphone has been used to analyze data collected by a multimodal flexible wearable sensor patch and detect arrhythmia, coughs and falls.
Complexity of tumors revealed in 3D
A new analysis has revealed detailed 3D maps of the internal structures of multiple tumor types. These cancer atlases reveal how different tumor cells -- and the cells of a tumor's surrounding environment -- are organized, in 3D, and how that organization changes when a tumor spreads to other organs. The detailed findings offer scientists valuable blueprints of tumors that could lead to new approaches to therapy and spark a new era in the field of cancer biology, according to the researchers.
Breakthrough in magnetism could transform quantum computing and superconductors
A discovery by physicists is unlocking a new understanding of magnetism and electronic interactions in cutting-edge materials, potentially revolutionizing technology fields such as quantum computing and high-temperature superconductors.
Solving interface mystery in organic solar cells makes them more efficient
Research provides a deeper understanding of precisely what is happening in organic solar cells as light is converted into electricity. Researchers developed a new method which visualizes interfaces where the sunlight's energy is converted to electrical charges and used the findings to develop a set of design rules that can improve the efficiency of organic solar cells.
Quantum simulator could help uncover materials for high-performance electronics
Researchers created a synthetic magnetic field using a superconducting quantum processor, which could enable them to precisely study complex phenomena in materials, like phase changes. This could shed light on properties of unique materials that may be used to create faster or more powerful electronics.
Farewell frost! New surface prevents frost without heat
In a new study, researchers discovered that tweaking the texture of any surface and adding a thin layer of graphene oxide prevents 100% of frost from forming on surfaces for one week or potentially even longer. This is 1,000 times longer than current, state-of-the-art anti-frosting surfaces.
Researchers have joined forces to give a boost to spatial memory by creating a unique experimental setup that combines non-invasive deep-brain stimulation, virtual reality training, and fMRI imaging. The study demonstrates that targeted, painless electric impulses to the hippocampus and adjacent structures, a deep brain region implied in memory and spatial navigation, can improve the brain's ability to recall locations and navigate more effectively.
A rudimentary quantum network link between Dutch cities
Researchers have demonstrated a network connection between quantum processors over metropolitan distances. Their result marks a key advance from early research networks in the lab towards a future quantum internet. The team developed fully independently operating nodes and integrated these with deployed optical internet fiber, enabling a 25-km quantum link.
Reactor could make direct air capture more energy efficient
Researchers have developed an electrochemical reactor that has the potential to drastically reduce energy consumption and cost for direct air capture.
A navigation system for microswimmers
By applying an electric field, the movement of microswimmers can be manipulated. Scientists describe the underlying physical principles by comparing experiments and theoretical modeling predictions. They are able to tune the direction and mode of motion through a microchannel between oscillation, wall adherence and centerline orientation, enabling different interactions with the environment.
Implantable microparticles can deliver two cancer therapies at once
Researchers designed tiny particles that can be implanted at a cancer tumor site, where they deliver two types of therapy: heat and chemotherapy.
Researchers aim to get leg up on bone repair with 3D-printed femur
Mechanical engineers designed a 3D-printed femur that could help doctors prepare for surgeries to repair bones and develop treatments for bone tumors. The study, which focused on the middle section of the bone, establishes 3D-printing parameters for a femur for use in biomechanical testing. Researchers said more studies will be needed before the technology could be available for widespread use.
Paving the way for harvesting and storing solar energy efficiently
Approximately 50 percent of global final energy consumption is dedicated to heating. Yet, the utilization of solar power in this sector remains relatively low compared to fossil energy sources. An inherent problem limiting the widespread usage of solar energy is the intermittency of its direct availability. A promising solution comes in the form of molecular solar energy storage systems.
Ultrasound can be used as search and rescue tool for the brain
Scientists highlighted the potential for ultrasound to treat some of the more complex health conditions affecting the human brain.
Face-conforming LED mask showing 340% improved efficacy in deep skin elasticity
A research team has developed a deep skin-stimulating LED mask which has been verified in clinical trials to improve dermis elasticity by 340%.
New imaging analysis technique revolutionizes diagnostics of head and neck cancers
A study developed a new technique to accurately analyse the properties of cancer cells and the surrounding tissue at the level of individual cells. This innovation enables a more comprehensive assessment of prognoses and treatment responses in the head and neck cancers, and paves the way for more accurate diagnostics.
Materials research: Surprise at the grain boundary
Using state-of-the-art microscopy and simulation techniques, an international research team systematically observed how iron atoms alter the structure of grain boundaries in titanium. They were in for a surprise.