VU University Amsterdam

An artist's impression of the SuperGPS system in action

Telecommunications

"SuperGPS" ditches satellites for radio towers for cm-scale tracking

GPS has its limitations in urban areas where signals can get noisy. Now, engineers in the Netherlands have developed “SuperGPS” – a hybrid positioning system that combines wireless and optical connections to pinpoint locations within centimeters.

Scientists have discovered microplastics in the human bloodstream for the first time, at concentrations equal to a teaspoon for every 1,000 liters of water

Medical

Plastic particles found in the human bloodstream for the first time

Scientists are continuing to uncover the true extent of our plastic pollution problem, and the latest development in this area offers up the first evidence of plastic particles being absorbed into the human bloodstream.

Countries with warmer climates are said to have higher rates of violent crime – but why?

Science

CLASH theory blames violence in hot climates on "fast life strategy"

A new model attempts to explain the higher violent crime rates seen in parts of the world near the equator with hotter climates.

The record-breaking bike of the Delft University of Technology and VU University Amsterdam (Photo: Rick Robson)

Bicycles

Human-powered speed record falls at Battle Mountain

It's with considerable interest that Gizmag has followed cyclist Graeme Obree's quest to break the human-powered speed record. On Friday at the World Human Speed Championships at Battle Mountain, Obree finally made the attempt.