The Assyrian army, led by King Sennacherib, built a massive siege ramp at Lachish using human chains and thousands of stone blocks. The ramp was constructed in about 25 days, allowing the army to breach the city walls and conquer the city.
A 13-year-long study finds that fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) coatings can sustain concrete structures for extended periods. The study tested FRP and glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) systems under various environmental conditions, revealing significant impact on bond behavior.
Researchers from South Ural State University created a hybrid intelligence system that can predict pile bearing capacity with high accuracy. The system, developed by combining adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and group method of data handling, outperformed traditional methods and provided close to measured values.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Researchers developed a novel approach to 3D image segmentation, segmenting the gaps between parts instead of contours, to automate tedious tasks. The technique demonstrates promising results in diagnosing TMJ-related issues and has potential applications in other fields.
The National Science Foundation awarded a four-year project to study ancient agriculture in south-central Veracruz, Mexico. The researchers aim to understand the factors that contributed to the area's agricultural collapse and its potential implications for modern farming.
Scientists from Incheon National University identified interzonal airflow across household entrance doors as a dominant factor in calculating heating loads. They found that strong stack effect and weather-driven airflow rates were larger than external infiltration rates, making conventional airtightness measures unreliable.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers develop method to produce high-quality gypsum binders from synthetic calcium sulfate dihydrate, surpassing natural gypsum in several parameters. The new material can replace natural gypsum in countries without gypsum stone deposits, reducing production costs and simplifying technology.
Cosmologists have found a way to double the accuracy of measuring distances to supernova explosions, enabling precise study of dark energy. The Nearby Supernova Factory collaboration has developed a new method that quadruples the number of supernovae used, allowing for more accurate measurements and reducing biases.
A research team at KICT has developed a fully-automated peak-picking method for extracting modal frequencies in stay-cables without prior setting or human manipulation. The method utilizes domain knowledge based on the physical characteristics of stay-cables, outperforming state-of-the-art methods in terms of accuracy and robustness.
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A team of researchers has proposed a new composite foundation system using inexpensive polymeric materials to protect structures sitting on deep foundations. The novel technique uses geotextile layers to isolate the building from the ground, reducing impact of large ground deformations due to fault rupture.
A new method using noncombustible carbon textile grid and cement mortar doubles load-bearing capacities of structurally deficient concrete structures, increasing their usable lifespan threefold. Construction costs are reduced by 40% compared to existing methods.
Researchers are exploring the use of recycled plastic pins to repair deep-seated failures on embankments and areas around highway bridges. The pins provide stabilization and reduce costs by more than 50%, while also testing the feasibility of using just a moisture barrier for slope stabilization.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A team of scientists has created a technique using nanoneedles to modify the properties of iron-rhodium alloy, allowing for the creation of antiferromagnetic nano-islands embedded in ferromagnetic matrices. This breakthrough enables the miniaturization of magnetic devices and facilitates the manufacture of more robust and secure memories.
Researchers have developed a way to recycle conventional polyurethane (PU) foams into rubber and hard plastic using a twin-screw extrusion process. This new method improves the mixing and air removal in recycled foams, producing high-quality products without the need for toxic starting materials.
Research at the University of Huddersfield warns that smaller construction firms are missing out on cutting-edge techniques like BIM and Lean Construction, which can improve efficiency and productivity. The study found that SMEs are not adopting these practices, despite their potential to transform the industry.
Scientists from North Carolina State University have developed a new technique that utilizes residual gamma radiation signatures to detect and locate radioactive materials, such as weapons-grade plutonium. The method relies on the unique properties of silicates in building materials like bricks.
Researchers developed a nondestructive optical technique to determine cement setting times and assess hydration processes in real-time. The method combines laser-based technology with an optical model to calculate dynamic behavior, providing accurate calculations for initial and final setting times.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Scientists successfully created a large synthetic nanopore made from DNA with a functional gating system for sensing and bio-sensing applications. The pore can translocate large protein-sized macromolecules between compartments separated by a lipid bilayer, enabling label-free real-time biosensing of trigger molecules.
A research team at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology has developed a new method for constructing seven- and eight-membered carbocycles, overcoming previous difficulties due to instability. The process uses an internal redox reaction, allowing for the creation of medium-sized carbocycles with favorable formation rates.
Acoustical Society of America researchers present a new approach to deploying human-scale immersive virtual environments, combining wave field synthesis with modular design for scalable configurations. The system enables rapid assembly, calibration, and deployment in various settings, such as schools, offices, or research institutes.
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers have developed a technique to make sheep produce new antibodies by injecting DNA building blocks, offering a cheaper and more efficient approach than industrial production. This breakthrough brings the study of antibody gene therapy closer to clinical use.
A new mathematical technique developed by Caoxiang Zhu at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory can help simplify the design of stellarators, reducing construction time and costs. The method identifies irregular magnetic fields produced by stellarator coils, allowing for the creation of more stable plasmas.
Researchers have developed a method to test building material samples for signs of high-enriched uranium (HEU) use. The technique involves analyzing small core samples using hardware similar to radiation dosimeter badges.
Researchers have developed a satellite-based early warning system that can spot tiny movements in bridges indicating potential collapse. The technique combines data from satellites with advanced algorithms to provide near-real-time monitoring of entire structures.
Researchers expand earthquake catalog by a factor of 10, revealing daily quakes at 495 locations across the region. The study's template matching technique identifies tiny tremors, expanding our understanding of seismic events and their impact on the region.
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers develop AI method to extract clinically important movement patterns from normal video recordings, enabling early CP detection and assessment of neurological development. The study shows promise for automated movement analyses in diverse applications, including out-of-hospital screening and therapeutic decision-making.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique using bacteria to create biocement in coal ash ponds, making them stiffer and more difficult to spill. The resulting biocement can also trap potentially toxic metals in the coal ash, reducing environmental and public health concerns.
Researchers developed a virtual frame technique that enables ordinary digital cameras to capture millions of frames per second for several seconds while maintaining high spatial resolution. This allows for the direct imaging of dynamic cracks as they form, enabling the study of fracture toughness and properties of construction materials.
Scientists at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience create a novel technique called iMT, capable of tracing intricate neural connections with unprecedented sensitivity. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of the brain and uncover novel approaches for diagnosing and treating brain disorders.
University of Arizona professor Robert Fleischman is leading an integrated research and teaching program in earthquake engineering at the University of Salento in Lecce, Italy. He will focus on retrofitting historic buildings and developing modern techniques for ancient structures.
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
New research allows for fully automated design of DNA staple sequences, enabling the creation of complex nanostructures with ease. This breakthrough advances the field of DNA origami, opening up new possibilities for applications in material science and medicine.
Researchers identify a shortlist of designable molecular knot types that can be easily self-assembled under physical and chemical conditions. The findings support the synthesis of novel topologies for potential applications in medicine, electronics, and nanocargo loading/unloading.
Researchers at University of British Columbia Okanagan have developed a new method to improve the strength of rammed earth walls using calcium carbide residue and fly ash as binding agents. The treated walls were found to be 25 times stronger than those without, paving the way for its use in modern construction.
Researchers at UBC developed a simple technique to create smart windows with dynamic tinting, reducing energy losses by switching between clear and tinted states. The new method reduces production costs compared to conventional glass windows, making it more feasible for commercial use.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a method to identify the presence of radioactive materials like uranium and plutonium in building materials. The technique uses brick samples to detect the presence of these materials and can be done in days, not weeks.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A study examining risk factors and mitigation techniques for golden eagle electrocution reveals eight key risk factors, with pole configuration being the most frequently identified. The authors propose targeting high-risk poles using region-specific strategies to substantially reduce mortalities.
Dr. Anand Puppala's patented sensor system uses an integrated moisture sensor and time domain reflectometry probe to detect soil heave in high sulfate soils, allowing for early detection and potential cost savings.
Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a micropillar compression technique to characterize the micro-scale strength of cement, allowing for the development of stronger, more sustainable materials. The study provides precise measures of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) compressive strength in cement mixtures.
The study proposes a remote evaluation method to determine the feasibility of using local resources for contingency base construction. By analyzing available data and proximity factor analysis, planners can optimize CB site plans and locations to maximize indigenous resource utilization.
Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a technique to produce synthetic steroids, paving the way for new drug discoveries. The process reduces time and expense to develop therapeutics from rare, mirror-image isomers of naturally occurring steroid structures.
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a cheaper production method to create single-crystal metals, known for their shape memory properties. This breakthrough could lead to mass-produced materials with improved elasticity and strength, ideal for building structures that can withstand earthquakes.
The rise of immersive journalism poses challenges to traditional journalistic principles, as it offers a personal experience that can be subjective and relativistic. However, when used thoughtfully, immersion can enhance the narrative and create a powerful emotional impact.
MIT researchers have designed a system that can 3-D print the basic structure of an entire building, enabling faster, cheaper, and more adaptable construction. The system uses a robotic arm to direct various construction nozzles and can construct objects of any size.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers have gained insight into the atomic and nuclear structure of heavy, radioactive elements for the first time. The technique involves laser ionization, which significantly increases sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for measurements of atoms per second.
A new AI-based diagnosis technique uses functional and structural brain imaging to identify affected regions in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients. The study, published in International Journal of Neural Systems, shows promising results with high accuracy rates.
Researchers at The University of Manchester developed a braiding technique to create tighter and more complex molecular knots, leading to potential breakthroughs in material strength and elasticity. This achievement has the possibility of generating new types of materials, such as lighter and more flexible polymers.
Researchers at University of Nottingham have developed a new laser scanning test to assess fire-damaged concrete structural safety. The technique uses terrestrial laser scanning to detect damage and provides an accurate assessment of the material's strength changes when heated to elevated temperatures.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking 3D imaging technique that maps the reorganization of genetic material in cell nuclei, providing a new understanding of how chromosomes are compacted and genes are activated or silenced. This breakthrough uses X-ray microscopy to visualize the structure and movement of chromatin in real-time.
Berkeley Lab scientists create direct method to study electrochemical double layer using 'tender' X-rays, revealing changes in electric potential and charge properties. This breakthrough advances materials design and development of improved electrochemical systems.
A team of Lehigh engineers has created a novel method called AMIGO that considers multiple elements and is the first to factor in so many aspects. The algorithm demonstrates its effectiveness on transportation network recovery in an imagined post-earthquake San Diego, finding near-optimal solutions in a small number of trials.
Researchers at Caltech use DNA origami to precisely place glowing molecules within microscopic light resonators, creating a microscopic reproductions of Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night. By mapping out a checkerboard pattern of hot and cold spots, they can position fluorescent molecules to make lamps of varying intensity.
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
Chinese researchers have developed a new in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique that offers powerful functionality to understand atomic-scale structure and its correlation with physical and chemical properties. The technique has potential applications in smart windows, energy management, and environmental protection.
Researchers at Concordia University developed a new modelling method to analyze the scheduling of reconstruction work in complex infrastructure projects. The technique uses 4-D simulations to coordinate traffic flow with demolition and construction activities, eliminating potential clashes and saving time and money.
POSTECH researchers have developed a rapid printing technology for high-density and scalable memristor arrays composed of cross-bar-shaped metal nanowires. This technology enables the fabrication of microminiature memristors with excellent electrical performance and reproducible resistive switching behavior.
Researchers develop novel method to build large arrays of nanolenses using chemical and lithographic techniques, enabling extremely high-resolution imaging or biological sensing. The technique allows for precise control over nanoparticle placement, producing tiny separations that produce the nanolensing effect.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Scientists at DIII-D National Fusion Facility successfully tested Shattered Pellet Injection (SPI) technique, rapidly cooling hot plasma to prevent disruptions. The innovative approach involves injecting frozen neon and deuterium pellets into the plasma, reducing localized heating and mechanical forces on the tokamak walls.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new welding technique that produces 50% stronger bonds while consuming 80% less energy. The process uses high-voltage pulses to vaporize metal foils and directly bond atoms, creating seamless welds without weakened seams.
Researchers developed a new 'zippered tube' configuration that makes paper structures stiff enough to hold weight yet can fold flat. This technique could be applied to other thin materials to transform structures from furniture to buildings to microscopic robots.
A new library construction method allows simultaneous generation of up to 12 size-selected long mate pair libraries with reduced DNA input, time, and cost. This approach improves the likelihood of achieving high-quality genome assemblies, particularly for complex genomes.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a new DNA nanotube assembly method that allows for better control over size and structure. This breakthrough could lead to applications in opto-electronics and smart drug-delivery systems.
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.