University of Oregon chemist Christopher Hendon loves his coffee—so much so that studying all the factors that go into creating the perfect cuppa constitutes a significant area of research for him. His latest project: discovering a novel means of measuring the flavor profile of coffee simply by sending an electrical current through a sample beverage. The results appear in a new paper published in the journal Nature Communications.

We've been following Hendon's work for several years now. For instance, in 2020, Hendon’s lab helped devise a mathematical model for brewing the perfect cup of espresso, over and over, while minimizing waste. The flavors in espresso derive from roughly 2,000 different compounds that are extracted from the coffee grounds during brewing. So it can be challenging for baristas to reproduce the same perfect cup over and over again.

That's why Hendon and his colleagues built their model for a more easily measurable property known as the extraction yield (EY): the fraction of coffee that dissolves into the final beverage. That, in turn, depends on controlling water flow and pressure as the liquid percolates through the coffee grounds. The model is based on how lithium ions propagate through a battery’s electrodes, similar to how caffeine molecules dissolve from coffee grounds.

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Strathmore is bringing back one of its most recognizable summer traditions, with a full lineup now set for the return of its free outdoor concert series.

Strathmore will once again host “Live from the Lawn” this July at the Gudelsky Gazebo Stage, featuring a mix of family-friendly performances and the return of its companion series, “Cool Concerts for Kids,” which is celebrating its fifth anniversary.

The Wednesday night lineup kicks off July 1 at 7:30pm and runs through mid-August, bringing a range of genres to the outdoor stage. Performers this year include Strutman Lane, Maruja Limón, Striking Matches, Damn Tall Buildings, Shayna Steele, and the annual UkeFest Finale.

On Thursdays at 7pm, the “Cool Concerts for Kids” series shifts the focus to younger audiences with interactive performances designed around music and movement. This year’s lineup includes Larry & Joe, Wendy & DB, and Big Bang Boom.

A special weekend performance is also scheduled for Saturday, August 1 at 7:30pm, featuring Marcella Simien, whose work blends soul, blues, jazz, and American roots influences.

All concerts are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, or picnics, though food and drinks will also be available for purchase on site, including options from Strathmore’s BBQ tent and a Ben & Jerry’s truck. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

In the event of rain, performances will move indoors to the Music Center at Strathmore with limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Organizers recommend RSVPing in advance to receive updates and reminders.

The series continues to emphasize accessibility and community gathering, offering a consistent midweek option for live music throughout the summer.