Tag: #145

Slowing down container ships saves on CO2. And now a US-based startup is making the switch from road to rail in the logistics sector more efficient by developing a purely electric, driverless transport system. The system uses gripping arms to load containers onto the loading surface and operates autonomously on roads. The switch to rail networks is made possible...

Hot flushes could be prevented by an armband. Meanwhile an American gynaecologist is helping women of various ages get to grips with another gender-specific health scourge. Her startup is treating vaginal infections, caused by fungus or bacteria. Not only are such infections incredibly unpleasant, in pregnant women they also come with an increased risk of premature birth. Patented tampon-like...

Wastewater has already been used to make beer. Now, a research team from the UK is focusing on how to make cow dung contribute to the circular economy. Cellulose fragments were extracted from dried manure using a salty liquid and an organic sulphur compound. Turning them into fibres was more complex and involved adapting a previously developed technology called...

A simple ring-system enables smart control of electric switches. Smart home devices, which monitor activities based on noise, can be beneficial for health reasons. For older people living alone, for example. Still, integrated microphones are always listening, and when they recognise voices or snatches of conversation it impacts users’ privacy. Enter a university team which has developed a new...

Some programming skills are taught using sign language. Though personal qualities are important for jobs, they don't often feature in traditional resumés. Which is why a London-based startup has developed a CV platform modelled on a social media feed. It aims to link digital natives and businesses in search of talents and focuses on users’ personalities. A coloured graphic...

Some skateboard wheels rid the streets of used bubble gums. Now an international research team from Finland and the USA has established how chewing gum could help to combat viruses. Their choice of arms? The hyacinth beans. These fruits have been eaten in countries such as Kenya for a long time and also contain a protein that neutralises viruses....