science posts

Revolutionizing Solar Energy by Taking It Underground

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Nov 23rd 2009 at 5:25PM

Want greener energy without having to install large, gaudy solar panels on your house? Join the club. But what was once wishful thinking might soon be reality. According to ABC Science, scientists have created a way to harness sunlight and convert it into electricity by connecting a photovoltaic cell to fiber-optic wiring that's barely wider than a human hair. (Note that it doesn't actually use human hair, like these guys.) The wires, which are coated with zinc oxide (the stuff lifeguards plaster on their noses), could be installed on a roof or, best of all, underneath a house or inside its walls -- as long as the tip of the wire is exposed to the sun.

Here's how it works. Light is absorbed at the tip of the wire, and zips down its length and back, letting the zinc oxide convert it into electricity along the way. How effective is this process? Dr. Zhong Wang, who led the team of researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, says the wires only convert about 3.3-percent of the light that passes through. He hopes, though, that the number will soon jump to 8-percent.

Tags: breakthrough, electricity, energy, fiber optic, FiberOptic, green, home, science, solar, solar power, SolarPower, top

Visionaries

Shrinky Dinks Build Chips on the Cheap

by Terrence O'Brien (RSS feed) — Nov 13th 2009 at 8:31AM

Shrinky Dinks Used to Build Chips on the Cheap

Do you remember Shrinky Dinks? That's okay. Neither do most of the Switched staffers -- the bunch of whippersnappers they are [Ed Note: Not true. We love them.]. The once-popular, plastic arts-and-craft set, which first hit the scene in 1973, allowed children to color and cut out shapes on a thin sheet of plastic. When the shapes were put in the oven, they would shrink to one-third of their original width, becoming thick and rigid. Well, it turns out that making tacky charms is just scratching the surface of this toy's potential.

Back in 2006, University of California at Irvine assistant professor Michelle Khine couldn't afford to outfit her lab with the $100,000 worth of equipment needed to create microfluidic chips. Frustrated and impatient, she turned to an updated version of Shrinky Dinks -- one that lets you run the aforementioned plastic sheets through a standard inkjet or laser printer. Needing the chips to create medical diagnostic tests, she took a shot in the dark by printing her chip designs on Shrinky Dinks, and then baking them. When the sheets shrunk, the ink clumped together and formed tiny ridges. She then used the minis as molds for the circuits she made out of a flexible polymer called PDMS.

Tags: microfluidic, microfluidic chip, MicrofluidicChip, science, shrinky dinks, shrinky-dinks, ShrinkyDinks, top, toys, weird

Computers

Schools of Swimming Robots to Study Ocean Currents

by Terrence O'Brien (RSS feed) — Nov 12th 2009 at 9:29AM

If you happen to notice a swarm of robots floating past your beachfront home, don't panic; it's not the first wave of the SkyNet invasion. Aided by funding from the National Science Foundation, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) is planning to deploy fleets of autonomous robots, possibly numbering in the hundreds, to study localized oceanic environments.

High on the list of phenomena to study is the way in which tiny sub-currents affect small organisms like plankton and their abilities to survive and move about the ocean. The robots, called "autonomous underwater explorers" (AUEs), will also provide important data about the spread of dangerous environmental toxins that arise from disasters like oil spills and harmful algae blooms.

Tags: biology, nature, ocean, research, robots, science, top

Computers, Visionaries

Ultrasound Could Protect Pacemakers From Hackers

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Nov 11th 2009 at 4:01PM

You never want your wireless device open to attacks, but if that device is implanted inside your body, security becomes even more important. With pacemakers and other medical devices being controlled and monitored from afar, scientists say it's time to step up protection. Those concerns in mind, a group of researchers from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the French National Institute for Research in Computer Science and Control have developed a new safety net.

According to Technology Review, the system uses ultrasound waves to measure the distance between a medical device and the wireless reader trying to communicate with it. This could prevent potential hackers from wirelessly gaining access to private information stored on the device, draining its battery, or causing it to malfunction. With the ultrasound system, access to the device would be restricted to the physical proximity of the communicator. In the plan proposed by senior researcher Claude Castelluccia and his team, you'd need to go through a series of authentication steps and be within 10 meters of the device in order to gain access.

Tags: hack, health, medical, pacemaker, research, science, security, top, ultrasound, wireless

Cell Phones

Avoid The Doctor: Cough Into Your Phone For a Diagnosis

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Nov 11th 2009 at 9:20AM

What does that cough say about you? Well, a lot. After all, each one is unique (wet or dry, productive or non-productive). Instead of waiting hours at a doctor's office to find out what this common symptom means, a group of researchers want to use the cell phone to get a quicker diagnosis.

According to Discovery News, a new mobile technology could allow people to forgo a visit to the doctor's office by simply coughing into a cell phone. The new technology, which is being developed by STAR Analytical Services, would allow doctors to listen, measure, and analyze a patient's cough. Just by doing that, a doctor might be able to diagnose any disease from the common cold to the flu. But these scientists want to do more than just scratch the surface of the cough. They're compiling sound data on thousands of different types of coughs and analyzing the distinct sounds which occur at the end of each.

Tags: app, breakingnews, cellphone, cough, diagnosis, disease, doctor, health, hgg, research, science, top

Computers

Large Hadron Collider Clogged by Bird's Baguette Bomb

by Amar Toor (RSS feed) — Nov 6th 2009 at 11:04AM

Every now and then, something will randomly fall out of the sky into an extremely insular environment, and chaos and confusion will erupt. Those consequences, as Chicken Little will tell you, can be devastating.

Something along those lines recently happened at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) when a bird dropped a baguette on the giant particle accelerator as it was flying overhead, nearly shutting the whole thing down in the process. The Register reports that the LHC, located at CERN laboratories in Switzerland, saw temperatures in parts of its accelerator circuits rise rapidly as a result of this baguette-bombing bird. (We're gonna go out on a limb and guess it was French.) Luckily, the LHC wasn't in operation, because if it had been, the incident would've likely suspended all further activity. Dr. Mike Lamont, who works in the CERN control center, reassured everyone that the LHC's safety net would have been strong enough to withstand the attack, especially in light of its significant upgrade in September.

Tags: animals, birds, CERN, funny, large hadron collider, LargeHadronCollider, LHC, nature, science, top

Computers

Robotic Fish Could Help Scientists Monitor U.S. Waters for Pollution

by Warren Riddle (RSS feed) — Nov 5th 2009 at 12:45PM

Over-fishing poses a severe threat to many fish species, but scientists around the world are currently hoping to stock various bodies of water with an impervious new breed. These mechanical robo-fish won't provide valuable sustenance, though, but they could provide scientists with beneficial information about pollutants, water temperature, and algae and oxygen levels.

English researchers are already preparing to populate the River Thames with schools of robot carp, and scientists from Michigan State University also hope to do the same with robotic perch in U.S. waters. The robo-perch prototype propels itself with polymer fins that are manipulated through an electric charge, although the cute little guy still lacks enough power to swim upstream or against currents.

Tags: michigan state university, MichiganStateUniversity, robot, robot carp, robot fish, robot perch, RobotCarp, RobotFish, RobotPerch, science, top

Cameras

Silk-Silicon Implants Could Connect to Your Brain, Enable LED Tattoos

by Peter Mychalcewycz (RSS feed) — Nov 5th 2009 at 7:29AM

Biology and technology are increasingly crossing paths these days, so it comes as no surprise that researchers have found a way to literally fuse the two, creating implantable technology for the 21st century.

Researchers have developed a new type of super-thin silicon transistor, which can be embedded on a dissolvable silk-based film (pictured). Brian Litt, associate professor of neurology and bioengineering at the University of Pennsylvania, told Technology Review, "Current medical devices are very limited by the fact that the active electronics have to be 'canned,' or isolated from the body, and are on rigid silicon." These new silicon-silk implants are much easier to place within a body: the silk sheet "melts away," and the transistors are small enough that they don't irritate tissues.

Tags: implant, neurology, research, science, silicone, top

Cell Phones

'Electronic Fog' From Wireless Devices Might Block Study of Space

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Nov 3rd 2009 at 8:29AM

As our world becomes increasingly wireless, scientists must grapple with the effects of millions of people using devices like cell phones and laptops. After all, there's only so much space on the electromagnetic spectrum. You might not consider it while Googling or browsing Facebook, but that signal you're transmitting could be making it tougher for some scientists to do their jobs.

That's why the U.S. National Research Center (NRC), in a report released today, is calling for tougher regulations on the emissions of wireless signals. According to LiveScience, man-made signals have created an "electronic fog" that often blocks natural signals from the Earth or outer space. Scientists monitor these signals to keep an eye on temperature and water level changes in the atmosphere, to determine weather patterns, and even to learn about the origins of the universe.

Tags: cellphone, electromagnetic, electronics, emissions, fcc, satellite, science, top, wireless

Web

Smile, or 'The Happiness Hat' Will Stab Your Head

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Oct 31st 2009 at 2:01PM

Some people just don't like to smile. Let's face it, not only does smiling make your day better, but everyone you encounter benefits from seeing those pearly whites, too. If for some reason you can't simply remember to smile, consider petitioning interactive artist Lauren McCarthy for use of her latest project -- The Happiness Hat. The hat, which looks like something our grandma knitted one Christmas, uses a sensor to measure the size of your smile. What happens if you're barely grinning, or worse, frowning? Well, the hat pokes the back of your head with a metal spike. Yes, a metal spike.

Yes, it's terrifying, but it's also science, folks. The hat will "train your brain to smile" (check out the video after the break). It's like Pavlov's dogs, except much more disturbing, and instead of dogs, the experiment uses humans. Apparently, it's also just one example of McCarthy's many interactive art projects. Call us old fashioned, but we prefer the kind of art you simply view -- like these sculptures -- instead of the kind that, well, causes bodily harm. [From: Lauren McCarthy, via Gizmodo]

Tags: art, hat, pain, project, science, smile, weird

Video Games

Muscle Sensors Make for Truly Hands-Free Gaming

by Warren Riddle (RSS feed) — Oct 31st 2009 at 10:30AM

From humble origins as paddles and single joysticks with one measly fire button, game controllers have dramatically evolved to incorporate track balls, excessive buttons, motion sensors, light guns, and various other crazy features. The next stage in gaming may not require controllers at all, though.

Microsoft, the University of Washington in Seattle, and the University of Toronto have all teamed up to investigate hands-free, muscle-computer interface technology. The technology, using bands of sensors placed along the forearm, allows users to interact with computers and gadgets without having to use actual, physical controllers.

Tags: game controllers, GameControllers, gesture recognition, GestureRecognition, hands-free technology, motion sensors, MotionSensors, muscle-computer interface, Muscle-computerInterface, science, top

Cell Phones

Cell Phones Cause Cancer, Says World Health Organization

by Terrence O'Brien (RSS feed) — Oct 27th 2009 at 5:30PM

The World Health Organization (WHO) is stirring up a storm by claiming it will release a study later this year that links cell phone use to an increased risk of brain and salivary gland tumors. The decade-long study claims to have found a definite link, though it stops short of inferring direct causation. The press release, however, does state that using a mobile phone for a decade or more results in "a significantly increased risk" of these types of cancer.

The study isn't actually a medical experiment, but rather a survey and meta-study in the sense that it draws data from surveys previously undertaken by other research teams. Of course, the WHO study has already come under fire from critics, despite its unreleased status -- and for good reason.

Of course, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the WHO is reviving the debate over cell phones and cancer. The WHO has been criticized before for hyperbole, most notably over its study of second-hand smoke (PDF). But, even discounting those past general criticisms, there are legitimate questions about this particular study's methodology. First, MRIs have improved and become more common over the last ten years, leading to an increased detection of tumors, potentially skewing results of any such study. Secondly, there is no way to differentiate the effects of cell phone use from exposure to other sources of electro-magnetic radiation (such as microwaves and televisions). These facts were pointed out to News.Com.Au by brain tumor specialist, Professor Andrew Kaye.

So the debate rages on. We wouldn't suggest literally strapping your iPhone to your head 24 hours a day, but don't stop your weekly, hour-long phone call to your mother for fear it might end in chemotherapy. [From: Daily Express, News.Com.Au, and Telegraph]

Tags: cancer, cell phones and cancer, cellphone, CellPhonesAndCancer, health, science, who, World Health Organization, WorldHealthOrganization

The Science of Mona Lisa's Smile

by Peter Mychalcewycz (RSS feed) — Oct 25th 2009 at 1:50PM

The subtle complexity of Mona Lisa's sly smirk has captivated generations of casual art enthusiasts, academics, and even scientists. In reality, it is a fine sliver of paint, but in the realm of art, it acts as a monument to the indefinable. But it's time to end the infernal debate: is it a smile or not?

According to a study conducted at the Institute of Neuroscience in Alicante, Spain, the answer is both. Arggggg!

Tags: art, mona lisa, MonaLisa, neuroscience, research, science, top

Computers

Thumbnail-Sized Chip Holds Equivalent of 20 HD DVDs

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Oct 24th 2009 at 1:51PM

Engineers at North Carolina State University have created a computer chip that holds one terabyte -- or 1,000 gigabytes -- of data and is no larger than a fingernail. For perspective, that means you could store 20 high-definition DVDs or 250 million pages of text on this tiny chip. According to Computer World, this modern marvel is made possible by a process called selective doping, in which engineers add an impurity to a material in order to change its properties. In this case, it results in a drastic reduction in size.

Not only does this breakthrough affect data storage, but it has implications for 'green' technology, too. For example, engineers could use selective doping to build ceramic engines that could withstand higher temperatures. That possible outcome, lead engineer Jagdish "Jay" Narayan says, could lead to better fuel efficiency. Doping could also better solar energy by improving the thermal conductivity of the materials used.

Tags: chip, dvd, engineering, green, science, selective doping, SelectiveDoping, storage, terabyte, top

Cameras

Wearable Vicon Camera Lets You Log Every Moment of Your Life

by Caleb Johnson (RSS feed) — Oct 18th 2009 at 12:01PM

Potentially taking the place of moms and their ever-flashing cameras, a new device allows people to document their lives simply by wearing it. According to New Scientist, U.K.-based firm Vicon has licensed technology from Microsoft Research Cambridge in order to produce the camera, which automatically snaps pictures as users wear it around their necks. The device, which can be programmed to take photos as often as every 30 seconds, whenever light changes in an environment, or when the camera detects body heat, was originally designed to aid the memory of Alzheimer's patients by allowing them to look back on their "lifelogs" at the end of each day.

Now, Vicon has plans to mass-produce the camera. It will retail for around $820 when it's released to researchers in the next few months, but will hopefully cost less when it hits store shelves in 2010. Dubbed the ViconRevue, the camera can store about 30,000 pictures on its 1-gigabyte memory card, and it's about the size of a pendant. For scientific purposes, we think this device is a great idea. But most folks, ourselves included, don't lead lives so interesting that they warrant dozens of photographs throughout the day. Making the sandwich and sitting on the couch is boring enough. Watching ourselves as we make a sandwich and sit on the couch would be intolerable. [From: New Scientist]

Tags: camera, documentary, health, memory, photos, science, top

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'Black Friday' Deals to Watch For

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Black Friday' Deals to Watch For

Traditionalists might balk, but the holiday shopping season is already underway. Skeptical? Head to your local department store and you'll be inundated by Christmas trees and ornaments. Bargain hunters, though, know that the real deals are more than a month away.

Black Friday, traditionally, is when retailers truly slash prices. Early birds can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars off of their holiday bills. Switched.com checked with a few elves, who gave a sneak peek at what you can expect deal-wise this year.

Blu-ray Players and Movies: Blu-ray is shaping up to be the biggest door buster of this year's Black Friday. de Grandpre expects at least one retailer will offer a Blu-ray player for just $49. Look for bargains on Blu-ray films as well, with last year's hit titles (such as "Iron Man") to fall as low as $5.

Laptops: With the proliferation of Netbooks this year, it's never been easier to find affordable portable computing, but Dan de Grandpre, CEO of DealNews.com says it will get even cheaper on Black Friday. Look for well-equipped Netbooks to sell for $199 – and basic 15" laptops to go for as little as $249.

HDTVs (Pretty big): The holidays are typically the best time to buy a new TV – and Black Friday is the time to do it. If you're looking for a normal sized set, you're in luck. Piper Jaffrey analyst Mitch Kaiser says he expects to see 32-inch LCD sets for as low as $299. GottaDeal.com is estimating 37-inch plasma and LCD sets will fall to $399 or less.

HDTVs (Really big): Need something bigger? How about a 46-47 inch LCD set for $599 – a 25 percent savings? Or a 52-inch LCD for $999? Dealnews says you can expect both. Plasma deals will be a little harder to come by, but a 50-inch set should run roughly $899.

HD Camcorders: You've wanted to shoot your child's school play in HD for a while, but haven't been able to spring for the pricey camcorder. This might be the year. Low-end, flash-based 720p models could drop as low as $60 (though you won't be able to zoom with those). Expect a high quality 1080p HD camcorder for $349.

GPS: While navigation systems have dramatically expanded their reach this year – even making it onto the iPhone – there's still a market for car-based systems. Dealnews predicts you'll be able to find a no-name entry-level system for $49, while a Garmin or Tom-Tom brand will be as low as $69.

Digital Picture Frames: Showcasing your digital pictures consistently gets cheaper. This year, skip the 7-inch screens and focus on the 8- or 9-inch ones, which should be available on Black Friday for as little as $30.

Monitors: Computer monitors might not be the sexiest of gifts, but they're usually welcomed with open arms – and they'll be cheap this year. Name brand 22-inch LCD models may go for as low as $99, while 24-inch models will drop below $150.

Memory: Don't know anyone who needs a monitor? External hard drives are always popular, since they're an easy way to back-up data. Dealnews expects a 1TB drive to fall as low as $49 this year. Gottadeal is looking for 8GB flash drives to hit $15.

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