<p>And in 2022, it could break speed records.</p>


A Radical New Motorcycle Design Hit the Tracks for the First Time

<p>Earlier in June, we covered how a British company had radically <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/at-250-mph-this-strange-ride-is-the-worlds-fastest-electric-motorcycle"   rel="dofollow">changed the design of a motorcycle</a> to drastically reduce its drag co-efficient. After a few months of work, the concept has finally moved to the tracks, with the company CEO and its chief rider Robert White recently <a href="https://whitemotorcycleconcepts.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/WMC-Testing-press-release-17_09_21-FINAL-PDF.pdf"   rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">completing the initial trials</a>. </p>
<p>Based out of Northampton in the U.K., White Motorcycle Concepts is pushing the boundaries of what constitutes a conventional motorcycle. First, the company punched a big hole in the center to allow air to pass unhindered through a &#8216;Venturi tunnel&#8217;, an unheard concept in motorcycle design. In addition to the design change, the team has also modified the powertrain on this bike, switching to an all-electric one. </p>
<p>With eyes all set on the 250 mph (402 kph) mark world record, the team recently began testing the carbon fiber prototype at the Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uu496i6fVp4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>For fans of speed here, if the bike did not appear to be going very fast, it is because it did not. The main aim of the test was to correlate the computation fluid dynamics (CFD) data in real-world conditions. The prototype was powered by a 60V system that produced only 100kW of power. &#8220;We are taking a measured and controlled approach to our testing program to ensure no stone is left unturned and given the results we have gained to date my confidence is building all the time that we will be successful,” said CEO Robert White, after the test. </p>
<p>The final version of the bike is expected to sport an 800V system that should produce enough power to smash the world record, the company said in a press release. The company will continue to test for the rest of 2021 and travel to Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia next summer for the record attempt. Apart from breaking records, the company is also working with industry partners to incorporate their patented technologies in upcoming road bikes.  </p>


<p>Conventional atomic clocks used on ships are robust enough to handle the rolling waves, but their accuracy pales in comparison to their lab-based counterparts. </p>


Vector Atomic makes waves with ultra-precise, seafaring atomic clock

Vector Atomic clock that uses oscillating iodine molecules


<p></p>



<p>For decades, <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/alma-observatory-gets-heart-transplant-installs-new-atomic-clock"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">atomic clocks</a> have been the gold standard for precise timekeeping. However, their bulky size and sensitivity to environmental factors have limited their use outside of controlled laboratory environments. This has posed a challenge for industries that rely on accurate timing, particularly in the maritime sector.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-enhanced-navigation-timing">The need for enhanced navigation timing</h3>



<p>Modern navigation systems heavily depend on precise timing. Tools like GPS utilize satellite radio signals to determine a ship&#8217;s position. Even minor inaccuracies in measuring signal travel time can translate to significant positioning errors, especially for critical applications like military operations.</p>



<p>Conventional atomic clocks used on ships are robust enough to handle the rolling waves, but their accuracy pales in comparison to their lab-based counterparts. This is where Vector Atomic, a company specializing in navigation and communication equipment, enters the scene.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A sea change in timekeeping</h3>



<p>Researchers at Vector Atomic have <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-01022-7"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">developed</a> a revolutionary new atomic clock that boasts both exceptional precision and remarkable portability. Unlike its bulky lab-bound predecessors, this innovative clock utilizes oscillating iodine molecules and is remarkably compact, roughly the size of three shoeboxes and weighing only 26 kilograms. This makes it a perfect fit for deployment on virtually any ship.</p>



<p>The true marvel lies in the clock&#8217;s accuracy. Vector Atomic claims it surpasses the performance of existing shipboard clocks by a staggering 1,000 times. This translates to significantly improved positioning capabilities, potentially reducing errors to mere centimeters.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Putting precision to the test</h3>



<p>The development of this groundbreaking timepiece was more than just theoretical. Vector Atomic partnered with the New Zealand Navy to rigorously test the clock&#8217;s capabilities in real-world conditions. The clock was meticulously evaluated aboard the HMNZS Aotearoa during a three-week voyage across the vast Pacific Ocean. The results were nothing short of impressive. Data from the tests revealed the clock maintained exceptional accuracy, keeping time within a remarkable 300 trillionths of a second per day – a level nearly on par with its lab performance.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The future of navigation</h3>



<p>The success of this maritime-focused <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/optical-clock-accurate-billions-of-years"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">atomic clock</a> represents a significant leap forward for navigation and communication technologies. Vector Atomic is actively refining the design with the goal of miniaturizing it further, paving the way for potential integration into navigation satellites. This would usher in a new era of unparalleled precision and reliability for global navigation systems.</p>



<p>The implications extend beyond the maritime domain. Industries like autonomous vehicle navigation, high-bandwidth data networks, and even precise Earth mapping all stand to benefit from the superior timing accuracy this technology offers. </p>


<ul>
 	<li><a class="RelatedStories_relatedunderline__rsAYf" href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/optical-clock-accurate-billions-of-years">China creates atomic clock that will run error-free for 7.2 billion years</a></li>
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</ul>

<p>According to MG Motor, the EXE181 can reach a top speed of 257 mph. It accelerates 0-62mph in 1.91 seconds and features a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.181. </p>


EXE181: MG unveils best drag coefficient electric hypercar concept


<p>MG Motor, which is owned by China&#8217;s state-owned carmaker SAIC Motor, introduced the EXE181 electric hypercar concept during the Beijing Auto Show 2024. According to the company, the car accelerates 0-62mph in 1.91 seconds and features a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.181. Inspired by fighter jets, the car comes with a drag parachute for safety.</p>



<p>According to MG Motor, the EXE181 can reach a top speed of 257 mph. <br>The model underscores MG’s commitment to redefine velocity in the electric era. This ambition catapults the EXE181 into the elite &#8220;Sub-1 second 0-100 km/h Club&#8221;, bridging <a href="https://news.mgmotor.eu/press/mg-made-a-spectacular-entrance-at-the-2024-beijing-international-auto-show/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">MG’s storied history</a> with the promise of a future where innovation and speed converge. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-drag-coefficient">Best drag coefficient</h3>



<p>The best drag coefficient ever recorded by a production automobile was the 0.189 Cd of the Volkswagen XL1, which was produced between 2013 and 2015, and just 250 units were made. The second-best drag coefficient of a production car was the General Motors EV1, another hero car produced in low quantities between 1996 and 1999 with 1,117 units produced in two generations of vehicles, according to <a href="https://newatlas.com/automotive/mg-exe181-concept-prototype/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">New Atlas</a>.</p>



<p>If EXE181 reaches production, it will become the most aerodynamic production vehicle the world has ever seen.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aerodynamic-prowess">Aerodynamic prowess</h3>



<p>This electric supercar is set to leave an impression when it makes its next appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2024 thanks to its cutting-edge technology and aerodynamic prowess.</p>



<p>It is anticipated that MG will replace Porsche as the primary sponsor of the Goodwood Festival in July. As it celebrates its 100th year, the firm wants to continue producing top-notch goods and services to please its customers throughout the world and advance toward a new century of automotive greatness.</p>



<p>MG maintained that it has a long-standing history of prioritizing speed, from its early success on racetracks and setting speed records in the 1920s and 30s, to defining the Roadster in the 50s and 60s, and inspiring innovation with its mid-rear engine roadsters at the century’s turn.<br><br>In a statement, <a href="https://news.mgmotor.eu/press/mg-made-a-spectacular-entrance-at-the-2024-beijing-international-auto-show/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">MG</a> said that the &#8220;electric concept car EXE181 is a tribute to the company&#8217;s speedy and innovative products developed in the past. MG EX181, the iconic vehicle that was known for setting an unparalleled speed record of 410.5 km/h in 1959, held its ground until 2014 before the record was surpassed by Bugatti. Phil Hill, the driver, became the first American F1 World Champion, cementing his and the car’s legacy in speed record history.&#8221;<br></p>


<div class="Review_header__rCaGD">
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<p class="content-title mt-3"><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/flying-car-first-ever-passenger-flight">Flying car evolution: Slovakian firm achieves first-ever passenger flight</a></p>
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</li>
</ul>
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<div class="Review_desc__skOL9">
<h2 class="article-abstract"></h2>
</div>

<p>A biomarker test predicts the early onset of knee osteoarthritis years ahead of noticeable signs.</p>


AI-powered test predicts knee osteoarthritis 8 years before X-ray


<p>Osteoarthritis (OA) is known to be one of the most prevailing forms of <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/stem-cell-breakthrough-cures-gorillas-arthritis-in-a-first"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">arthritis</a> faced by roughly 35 million adults in the US. Unfortunately, there are no cures for this medical affliction yet, but efforts to find new therapies are underway.</p>



<p>Now, a study was able to come up with an alternative solution that could detect the condition years before the symptoms are even visible to the victim.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Experts were able to predict the onset of knee osteoarthritis (OA) eight years before an X-ray would have conventionally predicted it through a blood biomarker test.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diagnosis-years-ahead-of-noticeable-symptoms">Diagnosis years ahead of noticeable symptoms </h3>



<p>Using AI, researchers analyzed serum samples from individuals to identify certain peptides corresponding to proteins that indicate early molecular changes associated with OA. </p>



<p>The test was able to identify traditional diagnostics in the patient years before including radiographic abnormalities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Six serum peptides corresponding to six proteins helped the scientists make a distinction between those who developed OA and those who did not up to eight later with a probability of 77 percent.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;Currently, you&#8217;ve got to have an abnormal X-ray to show clear evidence of knee osteoarthritis, and by the time it shows up on X-ray, your disease has been progressing for some time,&#8221; stated senior author Virginia Byers Kraus, a professor in the departments of Medicine, Pathology, and Orthopedic Surgery at Duke University School of Medicine.</p>



<p>&#8220;What our blood test demonstrates is that it&#8217;s possible to detect this disease much earlier than our current diagnostics permit,” he added.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-serum-samples-from-200-white-women-analyzed">Serum samples from 200 white women analyzed</h3>



<p>The biomarkers particularly spotlighted molecular changes happening in the joint tissue before structural damage is noticeable on X-rays. This is apparent even before clinical symptoms such as <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/doctors-set-to-lead-the-way-in-knee-joint-repair-with-nasal-cartilage-therapy"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">knee pain</a> appear.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In order to identify the serum peptides, serum samples from 200 white women. Half of these women had already been diagnosed with OA. </p>



<p>They noted that using age and body mass index (BMI) was not enough to predict OA as the area under the curve (AUC) showed 51 percent. When knee pain was considered into account, AUC showed 57 percent.</p>



<p>However, the AUC using the biomarker test was 77 percent, showing its effectiveness.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By identifying blood biomarkers that can predict OA before these traditional signs appear, it is possible to intervene earlier and slow down the progression of the disease.</p>



<p>Researchers aimed to devise this solution for both clinical diagnostic purposes and also a research tool. Additionally, the biomarker test could help develop effective drugs to treat OA.</p>



<p>&#8220;This is important because it provides more evidence that there are abnormalities in the joint that can be detected by blood biomarkers well before X-rays can detect OA,&#8221; noted Kraus. &#8220;Early-stage osteoarthritis could provide a &#8216;window of opportunity&#8217; in which to arrest the disease process and restore joint health.&#8221;</p>



<p>The study was published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adj6814"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">journal</a>–<em>Science Advances</em> on April 26, 2024.</p>



<p></p>


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</ul>

<p>SenseNova 5.0 underwent over 10TB of token training, covering a large amount of synthetic data.</p>


SenseNova 5.0: China&#8217;s latest AI model surpasses OpenAI’s GPT-4

SenseTime’s largest model, SenseNova 5.0, being unveiled at the Tech Day event in Shanghai.


<p>In a new development in the sphere of artificial intelligence, China-based firm SenseTime unveiled the SenseNova 5.0. The AI model seems to have surpassed the performance of Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 (GPT-4), OpenAI&#8217;s multimodal large language model.</p>



<p><em>Medium</em> reported that SenseNova 5.0, has managed to outperform the highly acclaimed <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/what-chatgpt-4-will-mean-for-ai"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">GPT-4</a> on a variety of benchmarks. These measures include logical reasoning and creative writing. </p>



<p>The new model depicted a better ability to understand and generate human-like text, showcasing practicality and effective solutions being applied to real-world applications.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensenova-a-hybrid-model">SenseNova: A hybrid model</h3>



<p>SenseNova 5.0, SenseTime’s largest model was unveiled on April 8, 2024, at a Tech Day event in Shanghai. They also launched the &#8220;Cloud-To-Edge&#8221; full-stack large model product matrix.</p>



<p>This new generative AI model represents a significant advancement in the realm of AI. The model functions as a hybrid, integrating both transformer and recurrent neural network architectures. Additionally, it has been trained on a diverse dataset of over 10 billion tokens from multiple languages and sources. </p>



<p>PR Newswire reported that SenseNova 5.0 underwent over 10TB of token training, covering a large amount of synthetic data.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The model employed a ‘Mixture of Experts’ to cover a context window of roughly 200,000 during inference, enhancing its effectiveness. Its key advancements are in knowledge, mathematics, reasoning, and coding capabilities.</p>



<p>The superior performance of SenseNova 5.0 rivals ChatGPT-4 with its advanced learning optimization techniques and it can handle large volumes of data effectively. Due to this, it is able to produce more accurate outputs and deliver applications across different industries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-constant-renewal-daily-renewal-and-further-renewal">&#8216;Constant renewal, daily renewal, and further renewal&#8217;</h3>



<p>“In the era of AGI, the three elements of data, algorithms, and computing power are undergoing a new evolution,&#8221; Dr. Xu Li, Chairman and CEO of SenseTime said in an official statement. &#8220;The number of model parameters will increase exponentially, and the volume of data will grow massively with the introduction of multi modalities, leading to a continuous surge in demand for computing power.”</p>



<p>Dr. Xu stressed that the company built the infrastructure for the AGI era with SenseCore and named the foundation model as &#8216;SenseNova&#8217;, implying &#8216;constant renewal, daily renewal, and further renewal&#8217;. &#8220;We hope to continuously update the models’ iteration speed and their problem-solving capabilities, unlocking more possibilities for AGI.&#8221;</p>



<p>Prof. Wang Xiaogang, SenseTime Co-founder, and Chief Scientist stated that AGI has given rise to a new research paradigm, which is based on powerful foundation models, unlocking new capabilities through reinforcement learning and human feedback, therefore efficiently solving open-ended tasks. &#8220;AGI will evolve from a &#8216;data flywheel&#8217; to a &#8216;wisdom flywheel&#8217;, ultimately leading to human-machine symbiosis.&#8221; </p>



<p>Wang maintained that SenseTime has established a full-stack foundation model R&amp;D system and has developed applications in multiple industries. &#8220;The diversity of the scenarios, the complexity of the tasks, and the richness of the data, all demonstrate the capabilities and potentials of our foundation models.&#8221;</p>


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 	<li class="content-title mt-3"><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/gpt-4-turbo-openai-most-powerful-ai">GPT-4 Turbo: OpenAI unleashes most powerful AI with Vision at low cost</a></li>
</ul>

<p>A new project by the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory could provide a breakthrough in 3D mapping technology and transform space exploration.</p>


New ISS initiative aims to revolutionize space 3D mapping

CSIRO Project Lead Dr. Marc Elmouttie with the Multi-Resolution Scanning payload, housed within an Astrobee robot.


<p>The Multi-Resolution Scanner (MRS) <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/testing-novel-3d-mapping-technology-to-transform-space-exploration-and-benefit-industries-on-earth-302128830.html"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">project</a> aims to utilize NASA&#8217;s free-flying robotic Astrobee system on the space station and test a novel 3D mapping technology that can produce detailed maps of remote environments.</p>



<p>A collaboration between Boeing and CSIRO ((Australian government agency dedicated to scientific research), the MRS is engineered to swiftly generate highly detailed 3D maps of diverse environments, ranging from the intricacies of the space station to the inner depths of a lava tube on the Moon or Mars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;The technology we&#8217;re using combines multiple sensors, which compensates for weaknesses in any one of them and provides very high-resolution 3D data and more accurate trajectory data to understand how the robot moves around in space,” said Marc Elmouttie, a research group leader at CSIRO, adding that NASA’s Astrobee robots will offer a chance to map the space station&#8217;s Kibo module in 3D.</p>



<p>In both space station missions and Martian exploration, robotic explorers rely on onboard sensors and perception algorithms to create detailed maps of the environment while simultaneously determining their own location within it. This capability, known as simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), is crucial.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The MRS uses advanced photogrammetry software named Stereo-Depth Fusion and CSIRO&#8217;s 3D SLAM technology, dubbed Wildcat. These cutting-edge tools empower the scanner to autonomously map, analyze, and navigate its surroundings.</p>



<p>To ensure the software&#8217;s functionality in space, Elmouttie and his team are mapping a familiar location on the space station &#8211; the Kibo module. In turn, this also enables the team to compare the resulting maps with controls, assessing the functionality of the technology in microgravity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mrs-could-expand-to-other-modules-on-the-space-station"><strong>MRS could expand to other modules on the space station</strong></h3>



<p>If it proves successful, the MRS could broaden its scope to include other modules on the space station, enhancing its mapping capabilities. Findings from this study can also contribute to advancing the technology for potential utilization in future spaceflight missions and exploration ventures.</p>



<p>While the ISS has maintained a continuous human presence for over two decades, upcoming space stations might not exclusively rely on human crews. NASA&#8217;s proposed lunar Gateway and potential future space outposts could predominantly employ robotic crews, and such technology would empower robotic assistants to autonomously manage systems during periods when human presence is absent.</p>



<p>According to&nbsp;Scott Copeland, director for ISS research integration at Boeing, the aircraft giant is committed to providing improved capabilities and enhancing safety for trips to the Moon and beyond. The MRS could provide resourceful in such endeavours.</p>



<p>&#8220;That requires the intersection of crew and robotic tasks, and the Multi-Resolution Scanning technology being demonstrated onboard our testbed in low Earth orbit will be a powerful tool to help us meet those goals,” Copeland said.</p>



<p>In the future, a variant of MRS could be deployed on other planets, integrated into rovers or helicopters. These vehicles would utilize the technology to map terrain and prospect for valuable resources.</p>



<p>Furthemore, the MRS could detect potential spacecraft damage caused by micrometeorites or other impacts, a crucial capability in locations lacking continuous human presence, thus enhancing the importance of robotic caretakers.</p>


<ul>
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</ul>

<p>Chinese space authorities unveiled a bold timeline for the Tianwen-3 mission, placing it ahead of NASA&#8217;s planned missions.</p>


China sets 2030 target to overtake US in Mars sample mission, space official says


<p>China could outpace the US in the competition to retrieve Martian rocks and return them to Earth, marking the first time such a statement has been made by the nation&#8217;s space officials.</p>



<p>According to the chief architect of the Chinese Lunar Exploration Programme, Wu Weiren, the country plans to launch the Tianwen-3 spacecraft around 2030 to implement its Mars sample return mission.</p>



<p>“In view of the progress being made around the world, we are expected to become the first country to deliver samples from Mars,” Wu outlined during a keynote speech to the China Space Conference in the city of Wuhan, <em>South China Morning Post</em> <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3260416/china-aims-beat-us-race-mars-samples-2030-goal-space-official?module=top_story&amp;pgtype=homepage"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">reported</a>.</p>



<p>China and the US are the sole two nations to achieve soft landings on Mars, rendering the planet as a pivotal target for exploration within the solar system. Meanwhile, NASA has aspired to transport Martian rocks back to Earth by approximately 2030. The Perseverance rover already has numerous samples in sealed tubes, eagerly awaiting retrieval from the planet&#8217;s surface.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-china-s-ambitious-plans-for-mars-exploration-and-sample-analysis"><strong>China’s ambitious plans for Mars exploration and sample analysis</strong></h3>



<p>Wu also revealed that China has started planning on a project to build the world’s first Mars sample laboratory. Sun Zezhou, Wu’s colleague and chief designer of the 2021 Tianwen-1 Mars mission, previously said that all key technologies needed for Tianwen-3 were in place and work was progressing smoothly.</p>



<p>China started exploring Mars not long ago. In 2021, their Tianwen-1 spacecraft put a satellite around Mars and landed a rover and lander on the planet&#8217;s surface. In the last five decades though, it is the only country that successfully retrieved rock samples from the Moon.</p>



<p>Earlier this year, the US attempted a lunar return mission. However, a NASA-supported commercial lunar lander failed to reach its designated landing site, while a second craft encountered difficulties during touchdown and remained operational for only a brief period.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-grapples-with-budget-surge-for-mars-sample-mission"><strong>NASA grapples with budget surge for Mars sample mission</strong></h3>



<p>In a recent development, NASA saw a substantial increase in the program&#8217;s costs, skyrocketing from around $7 billion to $11 billion, forcing the agency to reconsider its initial plans. The goal of the Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission is to retrieve valuable rock and soil samples from the Red Planet to be thoroughly studied on Earth.</p>



<p>A review conducted independently last year though, revealed that even if NASA could manage the $11 billion required for this mission, samples wouldn&#8217;t make their way back to Earth until 2040.</p>



<p>NASA Administrator Bill Nelson stated that the agency is actively looking for proposals for faster and more cost-effective methods to retrieve the samples.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We need to look outside the box to find a way ahead that is both affordable and returns samples in a reasonable time frame,” Nelson said.</p>



<p>Thus, it has also been enlisting the support of private aerospace companies, with SpaceX’s Starship <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/nasa-mars-sample-retrieval"  rel="dofollow">seen</a> as a potential solution.</p>


<ul>
 	<li><strong><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/humans-mars-nasa-spacex">Humans to Mars: What’s the holdup? — part 1</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/nasa-mars-sample-retrieval">NASA seeks help to save stranded Mars samples; SpaceX among frontrunners</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/space/video-calls-from-mars-lasers-make-deep-space-communication-a-reality">Video calls from Mars? Lasers make deep-space communication a reality</a></strong></li>
</ul>

<p>The key components of this innovative design include an electric wheel-side drive system, a battery ballast system, and an electro-hydraulic suspension system.  </p>


Clean plowing: New research hints efficient pure electric tractor design

A tractor plowing in a field stock photo.


<p></p>



<p>While undeniably the backbone of modern agriculture, traditional tractors come with a hidden cost: their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and inefficiencies in complex field conditions. As the world itself going electric, a new research, published in the journal <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2095809924001371"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Engineering</a></em>, explores a groundbreaking solution: a completely electric, wheel-side drive tractor designed to tackle these limitations head-on.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-of-diesel-tractors">Limitations of diesel tractors</h3>



<p>The limitations of current <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/china-diesel-engine-thermal-efficiency"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">diesel</a> tractors become readily apparent when working on uneven terrain. Firstly, unequal distribution of torque between the left and right wheels, a common problem in traditional tractors, leads to excessive slippage. </p>



<p>This not only reduces traction but also wastes valuable energy.  Secondly, fixed counterweights contribute to an unbalanced weight distribution between the front and rear axles, further impacting efficiency. Finally, current electro-hydraulic suspension systems need more sophistication to effectively balance the sometimes-conflicting needs of optimal traction performance and proper agronomic practices.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="530" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_f6a2b0.png" alt="" class="wp-image-61901" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_f6a2b0.png 800w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_f6a2b0.png?resize=300,199 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_f6a2b0.png?resize=768,509 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Battery ballast system. <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2095809924001371"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Credits: Engineering (2024)</a></em></figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Redesigned electric tractor</h3>



<p>This research proposes a <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/energy/catls-new-lfp-battery-promises-a-10-min-charge-for-370-miles-of-range"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">completely redesigned electric</a> tractor to address these challenges. The key components of this innovative design include an electric wheel-side drive system, a battery ballast system, and an electro-hydraulic suspension system.  </p>



<p>Individual electric motors powering each wheel allow for precise torque distribution, improving traction and efficiency. Strategically placed batteries act as variable counterweights, dynamically adjusting the front-rear axle load distribution for optimal performance. The advanced electro-hydraulic suspension system allows for real-time adjustments, balancing agronomic needs with superior traction.</p>



<p>The researchers developed a comprehensive 9-degrees-of-freedom (9-DOF) electric tractor dynamics model to optimize performance under complex soil conditions. This model was a virtual testing ground for designing and testing two control systems. The first, an active torque distribution control system, ensures optimal torque allocation between the drive wheels, significantly reducing wheel slip and increasing traction efficiency. </p>



<p>The second, a joint traction-ballast control method, utilizes the electro-hydraulic suspension and strategically placed batteries to optimize traction force and front-rear axle load distribution, further boosting efficiency.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Testing in field conditions</h3>



<p>Following the development of the model and control systems, a prototype electric tractor was built and rigorously tested in field conditions.  The results were impressive: the active torque distribution control method reduced tractor slip by 14.83% compared to traditional methods while also leading to a 10.28% increase in overall traction efficiency. The joint traction-ballast control method yielded a 3.7% boost in traction efficiency, a 15.05% reduction in slip, and a 4.9% decrease in total energy consumption.</p>



<p>These findings demonstrate the significant potential of this innovative electric tractor design. By combining a novel design with advanced control systems, these electric tractors offer the potential to significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance the overall sustainability of agricultural practices. The proposed solutions address current challenges and set the stage for a greener and more efficient future for agriculture.</p>


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<p>Skanska will turn the marine terminal into one of the largest dedicated offshore wind ports in the US.</p>


Skanska to turn a Brooklyn marine terminal into an offshore wind port


<p>Sweden-based construction giant Skanska has been awarded a $861 million contract to transform the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a major offshore wind hub. The company has signed the <a href="https://www.usa.skanska.com/who-we-are/media/press-releases/280517/Skanska-awarded-contract-to-develop-offshore-wind-port-at-South-Brooklyn-Marine-Terminal/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">final award</a> with SBMT Asset &amp; LLC.<br><br>Skanska will turn the marine terminal into one of the largest dedicated offshore wind ports in the US. The company will also support Empire Wind, a proposed utility-scale offshore wind farm that is currently being developed by Equinor nearly 15 to 30 miles (24 to 48 kilometers) off New York. Preconstruction began in January 2023 and construction activities covered by this award will extend into 2026, according to Skanska.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-emissions-facility">Low-emissions facility</h3>



<p>The company said that it will leverage its civil infrastructure and building expertise to provide construction services for the low-emissions facility.<br><br>A new 85,000-square-foot operations and <a href="https://www.usa.skanska.com/who-we-are/media/press-releases/280517/Skanska-awarded-contract-to-develop-offshore-wind-port-at-South-Brooklyn-Marine-Terminal/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">maintenance</a> building with warehouse, office, and parking will be developed by Skanska to support the construction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-point-of-interconnection">Point of interconnection </h3>



<p>Following the transformation of South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, the project will get and store offshore wind turbine components. <br>Proposed to be the operational and maintenance hub for Empire Wind 1, the offshore wind hub will act as the point of interconnection to integrate power from Empire Wind 1 to New York’s electricity grid at the Gowanus Substation in Brooklyn.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-model-for-renewable-energy-hubs">National model for renewable energy hubs</h3>



<p>&#8220;We are proud to play a role in the transformation of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, which will transition a historic feature of Brooklyn’s waterfront into an industry-leading offshore wind port,&#8221; said Richard Kennedy, EVP, President, and CEO for <a href="https://www.usa.skanska.com/who-we-are/media/press-releases/280517/Skanska-awarded-contract-to-develop-offshore-wind-port-at-South-Brooklyn-Marine-Terminal/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Skanska</a> in the U.S. &#8220;This project underscores Skanska’s commitment to building sustainable infrastructure, and this state-of-the-art facility will provide New York City with clean and alternative energy, as well as serve as a national model for renewable energy hubs.&#8221;<br><br>South Brooklyn Marine Terminal will be transformed into a central, scalable hub for the expanding East Coast offshore wind market, including as a port for future offshore wind developments.</p>


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<p>Initial investigations revealed that Voyager 1 was still receiving commands from Earth, indicating that the spacecraft itself was operational. </p>


Silent no more: NASA hears from Voyager 1, the most distant spacecraft


<p></p>



<p>In November 2023, NASA&#8217;s Voyager 1, the farthest human-made object from Earth, sent shivers down the spines of mission controllers. After decades of transmitting valuable data from the depths of interstellar space, the spacecraft abruptly stopped sending back understandable information. This sparked a race against time for engineers at NASA&#8217;s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring continued communication with this ambassador of humanity venturing beyond our solar system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-silence-tracing-the-fault">Decoding the silence: Tracing the fault</h3>



<p>Initial investigations revealed that <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/space/voyager-1-nasa-space-mission"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Voyager 1</a> was still receiving commands from Earth, indicating that the spacecraft itself was operational. However, the crucial science and engineering data remained garbled, like a phone call with a broken connection. Engineers traced the culprit to a single malfunctioning chip within the Flight Data Subsystem (FDS). This chip played a critical role in packaging data before transmission back to Earth, and its failure rendered the information unusable.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Rebooting from afar: A memory patch for a 46-year-old Machine</h4>



<p>Replacing the faulty chip on a spacecraft hurtling through interstellar space at over 15 billion miles away was an impossibility. The ingenious solution involved a memory reshuffle within the FDS. The affected code, responsible for data packaging, was too large to be relocated in its entirety. Therefore, the team at JPL devised a daring strategy.</p>



<p>They meticulously divided the code into smaller sections, each one relocated and adjusted to function independently in its new memory location. This delicate operation also involved updating references to the code&#8217;s original location throughout the FDS software, ensuring its continued functionality.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">First steps to recovery: Engineering data restored</h3>



<p>On April 18th, 2024, after months of meticulous planning, the first crucial step was taken. The section of code responsible for engineering data transmission was successfully relocated within the FDS. The 45-hour round trip for a signal to reach <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/can-nasa-fix-voyager-1-new-signal-offers-hope"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Voyager 1</a> and back added to the suspense. Finally, on April 20th, jubilation erupted at JPL as the long-awaited response arrived. For the first time in five months, engineers were able to receive clear engineering data, confirming a healthy and operational Voyager 1.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The road ahead for the aging spacecraft</h3>



<p>The successful relocation of the engineering data code paves the way for further recovery efforts. Over the coming weeks, the remaining sections of the FDS software, including those vital for transmitting science data, will undergo the same relocation and adjustment process. This will allow Voyager 1 to resume its role as a sentinel at the fringes of our solar system, providing invaluable data on the interstellar medium.</p>



<p>Voyager 1, launched in 1977 alongside its twin Voyager 2, continues to be a testament to human ingenuity and exploration. This pioneering duo holds the record for the longest-running and farthest-reaching spacecraft missions in history. While Voyager 2 continues to operate normally at a distance of 12.6 billion miles, the recent fix for Voyager 1 ensures both spacecraft will keep pushing the boundaries of human knowledge for years to come.</p>


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<p>Thanks to a robotic arm, more than 20 million people will experience better and faster fuel filling for their cars.</p>


The robotic arm takes over UAE gas stations

A robot arm by ADNOC is being tested in a pilot scheme


<p>The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company introduced the latest innovation. A robotic arm designed to refuel your vehicle at the pump in a few seconds. The arm opens your car&#8217;s petrol flap, twists off the cap, and completes the tank refill precisely and easily.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habit-match">Habit match</h3>



<p>Not only that it fill your car, but it also saves your time thanks to an app. The application ensures you receive precisely the amount of fuel required for your journey. Two months ago, they announced the launch of the robotic fueling arm pilot. The development lasted more than a year. The system is developed to be not just fast but also environmentally friendly and to minimize spill risks.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How it works?</h3>



<p>You arrive at one of the ADNOC stations. Pick your fuel type and press on a touchscreen or smartphone app. Then a robotic arm with a suitable nozzle and sensors ensures the nozzle is aligned correctly while pumping fuel. Cameras and sensors monitor the process while ensuring that everything is done safely and properly. When the fueling ends the arm pulls back the nozzle and you are ready to go.</p>



<p>The robotic arm is part of their five-year strategy that wants to make sure that cars are filled up more practically. Also, they want to boost the productivity of workers for example that means fewer outdoor hours in the <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/energy/science-shocker-light-can-vaporize-water-without-heat-says-mit-study"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">heat</a>. For customers, it means less time to wait.</p>



<p>“A first in the region and first to be certified and tested to operate during the hot summer climate. This step forward reflects our unwavering commitment to service excellence. This technology will be used in support of existing staff. Boosting productivity and reducing wait times,” they <a href="https://www.instagram.com/adnocdistribution/?img_index=1"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">announced</a>.</p>



<p>Currently, a pilot project happening at Reef Island in Abu Dhabi. The purpose is to gather data and information. This data will then be used to enable the robotic arm technology to be &#8220;rolled out&#8221; across the entire network of the company in the United Arab Emirates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ADNOC’s Fill &amp; Go app</h3>



<p>They also developed the region&#8217;s first AI-personalized experience for refueling. Thanks to the app smart cameras recognize a vehicle&#8217;s pre-registered preferences and digital screens navigate a customer through refueling. All that can be done from the comfort of their cars, without the need to leave the car.</p>



<p>Fueling issues can include various challenges, such as high levels of traffic can lead to long wait times at petrol stations. So implementing new technologies, such as the robotic arm can enhance efficiency while addressing safety concerns and customer satisfaction.</p>



<p>They expect the arm to be fully operational by the end of the year.</p>



<p>Two days ago they won the fourth award recognizing ADNOC Distribution&#8217;s Al and innovations efforts since the beginning of 2023. “Winning the &#8220;Best Al Achievement in Energy &amp; Utilities&#8221; award further solidifies our market leadership status,” they said. As noted Al &amp; Technology will continue to be a cornerstone of their customer-centric strategy. As stated every month they serve more than 20 million people through ADNOC Distribution across more than 500 service stations.</p>


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<p>Scientists have developed a long-lasting, sustainable catalyst for hydrogen production from water. </p>


4,000% boost! Eco-friendly hydrogen on the horizon

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolyzer using manganese oxide


<p></p>



<p>A team of researchers led by Ryuhei Nakamura at the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science (CSRS) in Japan has made significant strides in the field of <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/energy/magnetic-fields-can-boost-sustainable-hydrogen-fuel-production-new-study-shows"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">sustainable</a> <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/metal-waste-catalyst-hydrogen-production"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">hydrogen extraction</a>. Their research, published in <em><a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41929-023-01091-3"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Nature Catalysis</a></em>, details an innovative method of extracting hydrogen from water using a custom-made catalyst. By manipulating the catalyst’s 3D structure, they achieved a remarkable increase in stability and extended the catalyst’s lifetime by nearly 4,000%. This breakthrough has profound implications for the establishment of a sustainable hydrogen-based energy economy.</p>



<p>Water electrolysis using proton exchange membranes (PEMs) is a green electrochemical process that splits water into oxygen and hydrogen. The hydrogen produced can be stored and used later, for instance, to power an electric car when combined with a PEM fuel cell. However, PEM electrolysis has limitations that hinder its widespread industrial use, such as in power plants. <br><br>The chemical reactions necessary for this process occur in a highly acidic environment, and the most effective catalysts for these reactions are extremely rare earth metals like iridium. Nakamura explains, “Scaling up PEM electrolysis to the terawatt scale would require 40 years’ worth of iridium, which is certainly impractical and highly unsustainable.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-breakthrough-in-acid-water-electrolysis">A breakthrough in acid-water electrolysis</h3>



<p>Nearly two years ago, Nakamura and his team developed a groundbreaking process that enabled acid water electrolysis without relying on rare earth metals. By inserting manganese into a cobalt oxide lattice, they created a process that depended solely on common and sustainable earth metals. Despite the success, the process was not as stable as required in a PEM electrolyzer. Building on their previous discovery, they have now developed a longer-lasting, earth-abundant catalyst.</p>



<p>The new catalyst is a form of manganese oxide (MnO2). The researchers found that the reaction stability could be increased over 40 times by altering the catalyst’s lattice structure. Oxygen in the 3D lattice structure of manganese oxide comes in two configurations: planar and pyramidal. The planar version forms stronger bonds with manganese, and the researchers discovered that increasing the amount of planar oxygen in the lattice significantly enhanced catalytic stability.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-and-results">Testing and results</h3>



<p>The team tested four different manganese oxides, which varied in the percentage of planar oxygen. When using the version with the highest achievable percentage, 94%, the critical oxygen evolution reaction could be maintained in acid for one month at 1000 mA/cm2. The total amount of charge transferred in this case was 100 times more than anything seen in previous studies.</p>



<p>When tested in a PEM electrolyzer, water electrolysis could be sustained for about six weeks at 200 mA/cm2. The total amount of water electrolyzed in this time period, and therefore the amount of hydrogen produced, was ten times more than has been achieved in the past with other non-rare metal catalysts. Co-first author Shuang Kong notes, “Surprisingly, the improved stability did not come at a cost in activity, which is usually the case. A PEM water electrolyzer that generates hydrogen with an earth-abundant catalyst at a rate of 200 mA/cm2 is highly efficient.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-road-ahead">The road ahead</h3>



<p>While there is still work to be done, the researchers are optimistic about the potential for tangible, real-world applications that contribute to carbon neutrality. Industrial applications typically require a stable current density of 1000 mA/cm2 that lasts for several years, rather than a month. However, Nakamura is confident about the future, stating, “We will continue to modify catalyst structure to increase both current density and catalyst lifetime. In the long-term, our efforts should help achieve the ultimate objective for all stakeholders – to conduct PEM water electrolysis without the use of iridium.”</p>


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<p>Hubble is stable and safe, but it won&#8217;t send any information to Earth until an issue with one of its gyros is resolved.</p>


A gyroscope has failed the Hubble Space Telescope, again


<p></p>



<p>Hubble, the world’s second most powerful space telescope automatically entered safe mode on April 23, after receiving incorrect readings from one of its gyroscopes. This glitch has caused a temporary suspension of all its science operations.</p>



<p>“While in safe mode, science operations are suspended, Hubble’s instruments are stable, and the telescope is in good health,” NASA <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/missions/hubble/nasas-hubble-pauses-science-due-to-gyro-issue/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">stated</a>. </p>



<p>The telescope faced a similar issue in November 2023 as well, and it took NASA two weeks to resume its activity back then. However, what’s more surprising is that the same gyroscope that caused Hubble to pause last year is the one responsible this time.</p>



<p>With these facts in mind, the space agency is working toward solving the problem as soon as possible. Meanwhile, here is everything you need to know about Hubble’s <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/what-gyroscopes-are-how-they-work-and-their-importance"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">gyroscopes</a> and why they sometimes fail.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gyroscopes-decide-where-hubble-points-in-space">Gyroscopes decide where Hubble points in space</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/water-vapor-small-exoplanets-hubble"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Hubble Telescope</a> received six gyroscopes in 2009, out of which three are currently active. According to NASA, “Hubble uses three gyros to maximize efficiency but could continue to make science observations with only one gyro if required.”</p>



<p>Each of the gyroscopes has a wheel that spins at 19,200 revolutions per minute. The motion of the wheels produces angular momentum, a spinning force that keeps an object spinning or rotating. This is what keeps the telescope stable during its operations in space.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The readings from a gyroscope are important as they decide where the telescope will point, in which direction it will turn, and how fast it will change its pointing direction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Gyros provide rotation information as Hubble turns from target to target: moving the telescope in small increments, centering an instrument’s field-of-view on the target, or tracking a moving object. They also help prevent Hubble from drifting away from its desired pointing direction,” NASA <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/observatory/design/hubble-one-gyro-mode/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">notes</a>.</p>



<p>However, gyroscopes are composed of thin metallic wires that may break, or undergo corrosion over time. These wires, called flex leads, have also caused Hubble to pause in the past due to wear and tear.</p>



<p>NASA hasn’t yet confirmed what led to the <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/nasa-fixes-broken-hubble-telescope-piece-by-jiggling-around-a-bit"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">faulty gyroscope</a> readings this time. They are still working to identify a solution to the problem.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-has-a-long-way-to-go">Hubble has a long way to go</h3>



<p>The Hubble Telescope has been watching the universe for <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/space/nasa-shares-nebula-image-on-hubbles-34th-anniversary"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">over three decades</a>. It was deployed on April 24, 1990, and has since captured <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/science/universe-uncovered/hubble-deep-fields/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">3,000 galaxies</a>, making over 1.5 million observations.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/hubble-captures-a-stunning-lineup-of-galaxies-in-space"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">discoveries made by Hubble</a> and the data and images it has sent to Earth have contributed to 21,000 research papers so far. </p>



<p>NASA believes that the ongoing gyro issue will be fixed soon and, “Hubble will continue making groundbreaking discoveries, working with other observatories, such as the agency’s James Webb Space Telescope, throughout this decade and possibly into the next.”&nbsp;</p>


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<p>When the cell contacts the saliva, the battery’s formula reacts within seconds meaning the child will taste the bitter coating, and the blue dye will appear in their mouth.</p>


Child-resistant packaging: This battery colors kids&#8217; mouths if swallowed


<p>A new type of technology has been designed by experts to address child safety in households everywhere. It particularly focuses on the problem of children swallowing batteries, especially coin or button <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/worlds-first-non-toxic-aluminum-ion-batteries-aib-developed"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">batteries</a>. </p>



<p>Energizer, manufacturers of primary batteries and portable lighting products is releasing a new battery that will alert parents if their child has swallowed it. The battery is equipped with a nontoxic bitter coating to discourage swallowing in addition to a “color alert technology.”</p>



<p>This color alert technology activates a blue dye when the battery makes contact with moisture, indicating a potential ingestion. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-s-first-brand-to-offer-coin-batteries-with-3-lines-of-defense">World’s first brand to offer coin batteries with 3 lines of defense</h3>



<p>The company says that Energizer is the world’s first brand to offer coin batteries with three lines of defense: “our child-resistant packaging, a <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/a-new-battery-tech-that-is-safe-efficient-and-non-toxic"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">non-toxic</a> bitter coating, and the exclusive color alert technology.” </p>



<p>“Together, these features create the most comprehensive safety solution on the market to help prevent accidental ingestion and help detection,” added Energizer.</p>



<p>The launch announcement was made earlier this month via a video, nearly two years after a report spotlighting the issue of children swallowing batteries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Energizer and Trista Hamsmith addressed the issue in the video. Hamsmith had an 18-month-old daughter who died after swallowing a button battery from a remote control.</p>



<p>Due to this, Hamsmith lobbied and advocated for legislation addressing children’s safety called Reese’s Law and founded a nonprofit organization.</p>



<p>According to the <em>New York Times</em>, Reese’s Law requires a secure compartment of the batteries in products that use them as well as stronger warning labels on all packaging and is now working to make the batteries themselves safer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-detection-to-prompt-quick-medical-attention">Early detection to prompt quick medical attention</h3>



<p>This new technology could help prevent severe issues and potentially save several children&#8217;s lives as the color alert technology aims to provide early detection to parents and caregivers directly, allowing for prompt medical attention.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, the new battery uses secure packaging with a bitter coating to deter swallowing and color alert technology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Jingestion of coins or batteries can be life-threatening and dangerous. As per the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, hospitals are faced with thousands of emergency hospital visits each year due to the consumption of these objects.</p>



<p>“The consequences of a child swallowing a battery can be immediate, devastating, and deadly. A button cell battery can burn through a child’s throat or esophagus in as little as two hours if swallowed,” the agency stated.</p>



<p>Despite the pre-existing features in other batteries such as secure packaging and bitter coatings for batteries, this new technology is a “massive breakthrough,” Jeff Roth, the global category leader for batteries at Energizer told the <em>New York Times</em>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Here is the color alert technology, which helps give caretakers that indicator that something has happened,” he stated. “The most significant part about this is getting help early in the process. That’s really what the color alert technology allows the family to do.”</p>



<p>The firm noted that when the cell contacts the saliva, the battery’s formula reacts within seconds meaning the child will taste the bitter coating, and the blue dye will appear in their mouth.</p>


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<p>It demonstrates promise as a substitute for the commonly employed contrast agent gadolinium.</p>


Diamond dust shines bright: A safer contrast agent for MRI scans

Diamond dust, a carbon-based material, could offer a well-tolerable alternative to  other contrast agents. 


<p>A scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) in Stuttgart was taken aback by an unexpected finding.</p>



<p>In a magnetic resonance imaging experiment, nanoscale diamond particles meant for a totally different purpose shined brightly—considerably brighter than the genuine contrast agent, the heavy metal gadolinium. </p>



<p>This led to researchers exploring the potential for diamond dust beyond its application in drug delivery for tumor treatment. It can serve as an innovative contrast agent for MRI scans in the future.</p>



<p>Diamond dust remains brilliant even after several days after injection. According to the team, its signal-enhancing qualities are an unexpected discovery that might lead to new opportunities. </p>



<p>The details of the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adma.202470085?af=R"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">research</a> were published in the journal <em>Advanced Materials.</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-search-for-a-safer-alternative">Search for a safer alternative</h3>



<p>For almost thirty years, heavy metal gadolinium has been utilized in clinics to identify malignancies, inflammation, and vascular anomalies. It makes the damaged areas appear brighter in the photograph. </p>



<p>Nevertheless, gadolinium in a patient&#8217;s bloodstream reaches the tumor and the surrounding healthy tissue. Months to years after the last administration, it is retained in the brain and kidneys. </p>



<p>According to researchers, the patient&#8217;s long-term outcomes remain uncertain, and gadolinium presents various side effects. Efforts to find an alternative have been ongoing for several years.</p>



<p>An alternative to this resurfaced when Dr. Jelena Lazovic Zinnanti conducted an experiment using nanoscale <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/news/lab-grown-diamonds-normal-pressure"  rel="dofollow">diamond</a> particles. </p>



<p>The study scientist, who oversees the MPI-IS Central Scientific Facility Medical Systems, was taken aback when she placed the 3—to 5-nanometer particles inside the minuscule gelatin-based drug-delivery capsules. </p>



<p>Zinnanti intended for the heat to cause these capsules to burst. The plan was to utilize the dust solely for heating the drug-carrying capsules. Gadolinium was employed to monitor the position of the dust particles. The aim was to assess whether capsules containing diamonds would heat up more effectively. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-discovery">Unexpected discovery</h3>



<p>During preliminary tests, frustration arose as gadolinium leaked out of the gelatin, mirroring its leakage from the bloodstream into a patient&#8217;s tissue. Consequently, the decision was made to exclude gadolinium from the experiment.</p>



<p>&#8220;When I took MRI images a few days later, to my surprise, the capsules were still bright. The diamond dust seemed to have better signal-enhancing properties than gadolinium. I hadn’t expected that,&#8221; Zinnanti said in a <a href="https://is.mpg.de/news/diamond-dust-shines-bright-in-magnetic-resonance-imaging"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">statement</a>.  </p>



<p>Zinnanti delved deeper into her research by introducing diamond dust into live chicken embryos. In her experiments, she observed that while gadolinium dispersed widely throughout the embryos, the diamond nanoparticles remained confined within the blood vessels, exhibiting no leakage.</p>



<p>Furthermore, these diamond particles emitted a distinct and intense brightness during MRI scans, akin to their behavior within gelatin capsules.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efforts-to-unlock-the-mystery">Efforts to unlock the mystery</h3>



<p>While previous scientific literature had documented the utilization of diamond particles linked to gadolinium for <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/advanced-mri-scan-brain-images"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">MRI</a> purposes, Jelena&#8217;s work presented a novel revelation. It revealed the inherent contrast-enhancing properties of diamond dust itself had never been demonstrated before.</p>



<p>The reason behind diamond dust&#8217;s remarkable brightness in MRI scans still eludes researchers. “I think the tiny particles have carbons that are slightly paramagnetic. They may have a defect in their crystal lattice, making them slightly magnetic. That’s why they behave like a T1 contrast agent such as gadolinium,&#8221; said Zinnanti. </p>



<p>Moreover, the potential toxicity of diamond dust remains uncertain, necessitating thorough investigation in future studies.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, diamond dust could be a novel contrast agent alternative for MRI scans in the future. If it is proven to be safe and well tolerated by patients, it would be applied to tissue with aberrant vasculature, such as <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/health/defective-energy-factories-cancer-treatment-double"  rel="dofollow">tumors</a>, but not to healthy tissue.</p>


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