University of Waterloo

It's a sad fact that burn victims often feel a great deal of pain when the dressings on their wounds are removed. A new hydrogel-based dressing could change that, however, as it easily releases from the skin when cooled.

UK researchers have created the first smart fabric that can change shape and color in response to two different stimuli: heat and electricity. The development opens up new possibilities in various fields, including virtual reality and robotics.

A new shape has been discovered which would make for a pretty unique set of bathroom tiles. Nicknamed “the Hat,” the 13-sided shape can tesselate with itself without ever repeating a pattern, solving a 60-year-old mathematical mystery.

Students with learning disabilities struggle often require additional, individualized support to fill educational gaps. A team of researchers and experts have found that a cute little robot may help children with learning disabilities stay focused.

Entering passcodes on smartphones can be difficult for the blind, as they can't see the screen, nor can they tell if someone else is peeking at it. The OneButtonPIN app is designed to help, by utilizing vibrations instead of visuals.

If someone were planning on burglarizing a building, it would help if they knew where valuable gadgets such as smart TVs were located. A drone equipped with a cheap "Wi-Peep" device could allow them to do so, by seeing through the building's walls.

A new study has uncovered some useful new insights around how physical activity can improve ocular health, suggesting that regular exercise can promote hydration and stability of tear film, helping ward off dry and itchy eyes.

Malnutrition is a common problem at long-term care homes, as many residents simply don't eat all the food which is served to them. An experimental new AI-based system is designed to help, by analyzing images of their plates.

While it is already possible to control computers via hand gestures, doing so typically involves using peripheral electronic devices. The Typealike system, however, brings such functionality to existing computers, no added electronics required.

It goes without saying that a lot of people are receiving the COVID-19 vaccine these days, and will continue to do so for some time. A new robot is designed to help streamline the process, by autonomously – and needle-lessly – vaccinating patients.

Although we've heard about "smart" fabrics which could be used in clothing that displays data, it's unlikely that most garments will ever be made of such materials. The PocketView system, however, shines its display through existing "dumb" textiles.

Over the years, archeologists have unearthed the remains of members of the infamous Franklin expedition, although it hasn't been possible to confirm their identities. Thanks to DNA analysis, however, scientists have now done so for the first time.