Best of the Week: Hawaii’s Hidden Geology, Waters Announces Software Update

This week, Spectroscopy published articles highlighting recent studies in several application areas in analytical spectroscopy, including geology, environmental analysis, health monitoring, and biologics. Key techniques highlighted in these articles include near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS). Happy reading!

Using Spectroscopy to Understand Hawaii’s Hidden Geology

In a recent study conducted by Pooja Sheevam and Wendy M. Calvin of the University of Nevada, Reno, they examined the PTA-2 drill core on Hawaii’s Big Island using long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) geochemistry. Their work revealed new insights into hydrothermal alteration and mineral transformations in basaltic rocks (1). Key findings included the identification of primary minerals like feldspars and olivine, the discovery of silica-rich blobs indicating past fluid movement, and evidence of alteration in a low water-to-rock ratio, closed system (1). The study also highlighted limitations in existing spectral libraries and proposed future research on two additional Hawaiian cores to better understand geologic evolution and geothermal potential.

The Big Review VI: Carbonyl Compounds

In the latest “IR Spectral Interpretation” column, Brian C. Smith provides an in-depth analysis of carbonyl compounds, emphasizing their structural characteristics, reactivity, and significance in organic chemistry (2). It explores various classes of carbonyl-containing compounds, including aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, and amides, highlighting their unique chemical behaviors (2). The review also discusses analytical techniques employed to study these compounds, such as infrared (IR) spectroscopy, which is instrumental in identifying the carbonyl functional group through characteristic absorption bands. Additionally, the article examines the role of carbonyl compounds in biological systems and industrial applications, underscoring their versatility and importance in chemical synthesis and research (2).

Wearable fNIRS Sensor Tracks Cognitive Fatigue in Real Time

Researchers from Florida International University, NC State, and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology have developed a compact, wearable brain-monitoring sensor that uses near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to track real-time cognitive fatigue. Roughly the size of a bandage, the Bluetooth-enabled device measures brain oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex and transmits data to mobile devices (3). Validated against laboratory-grade systems, it captures physiological changes during tasks like breath-holding and mental arithmetic. Its design features skin-facing LEDs and improved light transmission using PDMS (3). Designed for future AI integration, the device shows potential for real-world use in education, transportation, and healthcare. The new device offers portable, non-invasive brain analytics with minimal setup (3).

Waters Announces Update to its Empower Software to Support Biologics Data Acquisition

On May 6, 2025, Waters Corporation announced major updates to its Empower chromatography data system (CDS), enhancing its capabilities for biopharmaceutical analysis. The update integrates multi-angle light scattering (MALS) and differential refractive index (RI) detectors from its Wyatt Technology portfolio, enabling direct data collection and analysis within a single platform (4). This streamlines workflows, improves quality control, and supports regulatory compliance for biologics (4). According to the company, Empower is already used in over 80% of novel drug submissions, and the new features are expected to cut validation time by six months and analysis time by 20% (4). Available in July 2025, the update is especially beneficial for high-throughput GMP laboratories and complex protein and peptide therapeutic workflows.

Real-Time Health Monitoring Using Smart Wearable Spectroscopy Sensors With AI

A recent review article published in Advanced Materials explores how intelligent wearable sensors can be used to improve global healthcare. Authored by researchers from Oslo Metropolitan University and the National University of Singapore, the study highlights innovations like self-healing polymers and light-responsive materials that enhance sensor flexibility and function (5). These devices can now collect real-time health data and, using machine learning (ML), detect patterns to diagnose conditions or predict health crises (5). Spectroscopic techniques, once limited to laboratories, are also being miniaturized into wearables (5). Although challenges like data bias and calibration remain, the review envisions a future of personalized, proactive healthcare driven by continuous, AI-enhanced monitoring.

References

1. Wetzel, W. Using Spectroscopy to Understand Hawaii’s Hidden Geology. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/using-spectroscopy-to-understand-hawaii-s-hidden-geology (accessed 2025-05-08).
2. Smith, B. C. The Big Review VI: Carbonyl Compounds. Spectroscopy 2025, 40 (4), 12–18. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/the-big-review-vi-carbonyl-compounds
3. Workman, Jr., J. Wearable fNIRS Sensor Tracks Cognitive Fatigue in Real Time. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/wearable-fnirs-sensor-tracks-cognitive-fatigue-in-real-time (accessed 2025-05-08).
4. Wetzel, W. Waters Announces Update to its Empower Software to Support Biologics Data Acquisition. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/waters-announces-update-to-its-empower-software-to-support-biologics-data-acquisition (accessed 2025-05-08).
5. Workman, Jr., J. Real-Time Health Monitoring Using Smart Wearable Spectroscopy Sensors With AI. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/real-time-health-monitoring-using-smart-wearable-spectroscopy-sensors-with-ai (accessed 2025-05-08).