In its natural state, lignin is a tightly cross-linked organic polymer that plays an important role in giving plants and trees their rigidity. But when these resources are converted into paper, the manufacturing process leaves huge amounts of lignin on the scrapheap. Scientists in Germany have developed a technology that could give the organic polymer a new lease on life, […]
Wood-Based Biopaste
Whipr Combines 3 Types of Resistance Training
Although there already are exercise machines that simulate nordic skiing, rowing and other activities, they’re usually separate devices that are all fairly large. Whipr takes a different approach, consisting of a small base unit that works with multiple attachments. The system was invented by marine biologist/scuba diver/stand-up paddler Luke Tipple, who needed a way of exercising in hotel rooms while […]
Self-Assembling Layer Prevents Metal Batteries From Failing
Functional batteries that incorporate lithium metal into the anode could herald a huge breakthrough in energy research, with the material promising incredibly high energy density compared to the copper and graphite used today. Scientists at Pennsylvania State University are putting forward a new solution to one of the key problems plaguing the technology so far, demonstrating a self-assembling layer that […]
Spit Tests To Diagnose Heart Attack Within 10 Minutes
New preliminary research is suggesting a simple saliva test can detect the presence of a protein biomarker known to signal the occurrence of a heart attack in just 10 minutes. If this prototype test is validated in future studies it could dramatically accelerate the speed at which patients with cardiovascular problems can be diagnosed and treated. During a myocardial infarction, […]
Cordless Mini Collar Fan
An ultimate solution for cooling off while you’re on the go, this personal 360° rotatable cooler will keep your sweat levels at bay. The mini collar fan is easily worn around your neck and boasts three adjustable speed levels — low, medium, and high — with a simple press of a button. The double fan construction allows for the ultimate […]
Spinning String Picker Gives Guitar Sound Of Its Own
Anthony Dickens had an idea for a new kind of guitar for more than 10 years, but work on a prototype only started two years ago. Now with the help of engineers from London’s Makerversity, the Circle Guitar is ready to rock. What makes the Circle Guitar different to other electric six strings is that it’s essentially home to a […]
Kokoon EEG Headphones
If you prefer falling asleep to some kind of audio accompaniment, you have probably had the jarring experience of waking up in the middle of the night with an earbud jamming into your ear, or some over-ear headphones crushing up against your skull. London-based startup Kokoon has tried to solve the problem by designing what are probably the most comfortable […]
Droplabs Gets Ready To Rumble With Bass
Many people claim to get a real buzz from listening to music, but if you don a pair of EP 01 sneakers, you really will get a buzz. The “sonic-sensory footwear” has been designed to add a live event feel to music on the move thanks to a transducer in the midsole that coverts sounds into vibrations you can feel. […]
Mountain Walkers
Chances are that if you think of someone who uses a walker, you picture them sedately making their way down a smooth sidewalk. Well, Rob’s Walkers are for those other walker-users, who like getting into the woods and going off-road. The device was created by Canadian entrepreneur Robert Anaka, after he lost control of his legs due to multiple sclerosis. […]
Smartphone Cameras Can Detect Diabetes Up To 80% Accuracy
A team from University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has demonstrated promising potential in using a smartphone camera to diagnose type 2 diabetes. The innovative research demonstrates a technique that needs no additional hardware other than a functional smartphone camera, and currently is more than 80 percent accurate in detecting diabetes. “Diabetes can be asymptomatic for a long period of […]