Infrared detectors created for viper-like night vision
Much like some snakes use infrared to 'see' at night, researchers are working to create similar viper vision to improve the sensitivity of night-vision cameras.
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Pacifier biosensor could help monitor newborn health
Wearable biosensors that non-invasively monitor health and fitness are growing in popularity among adults. But adapting this technology for use with babies is difficult because the devices are often bulky or have rigid surfaces that could harm infants' delicate skin. Now researchers say they have developed a pacifier-based biosensor that tracks real-time glucose levels in saliva. It could ultimately help diagnose and treat diabetes in the smallest of patients.
Read moreWorld first study with drone cameras now separates living from the dead
Autonomous drone cameras have been trialled for several years to detect signs of life in disaster zones. Now, in a world first study, researchers have taken this a step further.
Read moreExtending Wi-Fi range for smart-home devices
A group of researchers has created a protocol that significantly extends the distance a Wi-Fi enabled device can send and receive signals. The engineering innovation requires no new hardware to enhance the signal range for 'Internet of things' devices, like a door sensor or motion detector, but can extend the distance these devices can be installed from a Wi-Fi access point by more than 60 meters, according to test results.
Read moreNew insights could help tame speedy ions in fusion plasmas
To create a practical fusion energy reactor, researchers need to control particles known as fast ions. These speedy ions, which are electrically charged hydrogen atoms, provide much of the self-heating ability of the reactor as they collide with other ions. But they can also quickly escape the powerful magnetic fields used to confine them and overheat the walls of the containment vessel, causing damage.
Read morePhysicists develop fast and sensitive mechanical tool to measure light
Physicists have developed a fast and sensitive mechanical tool to measure light. The graphene nanomechanical bolometer is the fastest and most sensitive in its class. It is poised to detect nearly every color of light at high speeds and obtain measurements at and far above room-temperature.
Read moreAlways on beat: Ultrashort flashes of light under optical control
Ultrashort laser pulses have enabled scientists and physicians to carry out high-precision material analyses and medical procedures. Physicists have now discovered a new method for adjusting the extremely short time intervals between laser flashes with exceptional speed and precision. The intervals can be increased or decreased as needed, all at the push of a button. Potential applications range from laser spectroscopy to microscopy and materials processing.
Read moreRecovering 'lost dimensions' of images and video
Researchers have developed a model that recovers valuable data lost from images and video that have been 'collapsed' into lower dimensions.
Read moreNew paper-based technology allows reliable, low-cost sensing of iron levels in fortified foods
Researchers have developed an affordable, reliable paper-based sensor that works with a cellphone app to detect levels of iron in fortified food products.
Read moreThe nano-guitar string that plays itself
Scientists have created a nano-electronic circuit which vibrates without any external force. Just as a guitar string vibrates when plucked, the wire — 100,000 times thinner than a guitar string — vibrates when forced into motion by an oscillating voltage. The surprise came when they repeated the experiment without the forcing voltage. Under the right conditions, the wire oscillated of its own accord. The nano-guitar string was playing itself.
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