Kaunas University of Technology

The handheld gadget spots drought stress before crops become visibly wilted, like these parched pumpkin plants

Science

Portable device spots drought-stressed crops before it's too late

It's always best if farmers can detect drought stress before crop plants become wilted, weakened and lower-yielding. An experimental new portable device could help in that regard, as it uses ultrasound to spot such stress in its earliest stages.

Researchers have extracted triacetin from waste cigarette butts, which can be added to biodiesel to reduce production costs

Environment

Recycling cigarette butts may reduce biodiesel production costs

To drive down the cost of biodiesel, researchers have developed an eco-friendly way of extracting triacetin, a combustion-enhancing additive, from an abundant waste source, cigarette butts, both reducing waste and providing a sustainable use for it.

It is hoped that the device will provide better protection than occasional visits to clinics

Wellness and Healthy Living

Wrist-worn device designed to detect heart problems

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, potentially leading to serious outcomes such as strokes if left untreated. Unfortunately, it's difficult to detect in its early stages. An international team of scientists is hoping to help, with a prototype wrist-worn device.