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From sheets to stacks, new nanostructures promise leap for advanced electronics

Scientists have successfully engineered multi-layered nanostructures of transition metal dichalcogenides to form junctions, enabling the creation of tunnel field-effect transistors (TFETs) with ultra-low power consumption. The method is scalable over large areas, making it suitable for implementation in modern electronics.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 22, 2023

Reinforcement learning: From board games to protein design

Researchers successfully applied reinforcement learning to protein design, creating proteins with improved antibody generation and accurate nano-structures. The approach may lead to more potent vaccines and novel applications in regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2023
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.

Fluorescent aromatic nanobelts with unique size-dependent properties

Researchers at Nagoya University have synthesized methylene-bridged [n]cycloparaphenylenes ([n]MCPPs) with varying ring sizes, exhibiting unique properties such as fluorescence and paratropic belt currents. The discovery has significant implications for studying magnetic properties of aromatic nanobelts.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2023

Now you can be comfortable in your e-skin

Osaka University researchers develop a cellulose-based material, called nanopaper e-skin, that makes effective contact with the skin while maintaining breathability and comfort. The substrate can withstand deformation, sterilization, and environmental sustainability, making it a promising candidate for electrophysiological monitoring.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023

New self-powered ultraviolet photodetector

Researchers have developed a novel photoelectrochemical ultraviolet photodetector that can detect two types of ultraviolet light using a multilayered nanostructure. The detector's performance can be regulated through light intensity and external bias, enabling easy adaptation to environmental changes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateApr 18, 2023

Nanoplasmonic imaging reveals real-time protein secretion

Researchers developed a novel optical imaging approach to observe cell secretions in space and time, revealing key heterogeneity and potential for pharmaceutical development. The method has tremendous potential for high-throughput screening of individual cells and studying delicate antibody-secreting human donor B-cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 11, 2023
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.

International research team develops method to characterize nanomaterials

Researchers developed a method to characterize nanomaterials using sequential infiltration synthesis in nanostructured polymers. This technique allows for the creation of extremely small structures on semiconductor surfaces, enabling further miniaturization of next-generation microelectronic components.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateApr 5, 2023

Looking at magnets in the right light

A team of researchers at the Max Born Institute developed a novel method for X-ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism (XMCD) spectroscopy using a laser-driven plasma source. This breakthrough enables precise determination of magnetic moments in buried layers without damaging samples, and can monitor ultrafast magnetization processes.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Technology to protect bioactive compounds from food during digestion

Researchers have developed a novel technology for nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds, specifically anthocyanin, using pectin and lysozyme. The methodology ensures slow release of the compound, allowing it to survive gut bacteria and digestive enzymes.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateMar 28, 2023

Embedding aligned nanofibrous architectures within 3D-printed polycaprolactone scaffolds for directed cellular infiltration and tissue regeneration

Scientists create hybrid composite scaffolds with aligned nanofibrous architectures to improve cell seeding efficiency, proliferation rates, and morphogenesis. The findings have potential applications in tissue repairing and regenerative medicine.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMar 14, 2023

3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries revealed for the first time

Researchers pioneered a technique to observe the 3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries, enabling direct observation of the solid electric interface (SEI) and its progression. The study reveals key predictors of SEI layer formation in a complex interplay of molecular dimensions, surface properties, and solvent interactions.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Purification of DNA nanostructures from hydrophobic aggregates

Researchers developed a simple purification method using surfactants to separate hydrophobic DNA nanostructures from aggregates, enabling the construction of artificial cells and complex functions in molecular robots. The purified structures retain their ability to bind lipid vesicle surfaces.

SourceKyutech·JournalChemBioChem·DateMar 6, 2023

Protein-based nanoparticles designed to neutralise the SARS-CoV2 virus

Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have created spherical nanoparticles inspired by amyloid proteins that bind to the SARS-CoV2 spike protein with high affinity, preventing cell infection. The biocompatible and stable nanostructures also show great potency in blocking viral particles.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Nanosatellite shows the way to RNA medicine of the future

Scientists at Aarhus University and Berkeley Laboratory developed a method called RNA origami to design artificial RNA nanostructures. The technique allowed for the discovery of rules and mechanisms for RNA folding that will make it possible to build more ideal RNA particles for use in RNA-based medicine.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Writing on glass and silica indicates novel direction for chiral optical property tailoring

Researchers create novel method for chiral optical property tailoring by employing fs laser 3D direct writing on glass, enabling localized modifications without surrounding damage. The technique utilizes form birefringence and stress field to induce optical chirality, offering a new approach for 3D laser manufacturing.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 22, 2023
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.

When the light is neither "on" nor "off" in the nanoworld

Researchers from Würzburg and Bielefeld successfully detect exotic states of quantum physics in a nanostructure, where light can exist as both on and off at the same time. This breakthrough enables the development of novel optical quantum technologies for future computer chips.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 14, 2023

Chromo-encryption method encodes secrets with color

Researchers developed a new encryption method that encodes secret messages using brilliant colors created by silver nanostructures reacting to polarized light. The method's unique chiral response makes it more secure than traditional binary codes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023
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.

Can clay capture carbon dioxide?

Researchers are exploring how a kind of clay can soak up carbon dioxide and store it, potentially reducing the impact of climate change. The study found that carbon dioxide is more stable in wet clay nanopores than in plain water.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2023

GHz burst mode femtosecond laser pulses can create unique two-dimensional (2D) periodic surface nanostructures

Researchers demonstrate the ability of GHz burst mode femtosecond laser pulses to create unique two-dimensional (2D) periodic surface nanostructures on silicon substrates. The GHz burst mode enhances ablation efficiency and quality compared to conventional single-pulse mode, enabling the formation of distinctive 2D LIPSS.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 24, 2023

AI discovers new nanostructures

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have successfully discovered new materials using artificial intelligence and self-assembly. The AI-driven technique led to the discovery of three new nanostructures, expanding the scope of self-assembly's applications in microelectronics and catalysis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 13, 2023

Optical coating approach prevents fogging and unwanted reflections

A new optical coating system combines antifogging and antireflective properties, enhancing the performance of lidar systems and cameras. The technology, developed by Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering, has been tested in laboratory tests and has shown promising results.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateJan 12, 2023
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.

Designing with DNA

A new software program developed by Duke Ph.D. student Dan Fu lets users create 3D structures made of DNA, including tiny vases, bowls, and hollow spheres. The software relies on a way to build with DNA described in 2011 by Hao Yan, which works by coiling a long DNA double helix into concentric rings to form the contours of the object.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2022

Nanoimprinting technique for humidity-responsive holographic images

Researchers at POSTECH have created a humidity-responsive display that changes brightness and color depending on humidity levels, allowing for infinite imaging capabilities. The technology uses polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and single-step nanoimprinting to achieve high-tunability of holographic images.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 23, 2022

Shrinking hydrogels enlarge nanofabrication options

A team of researchers has created a new method for fabricating nanodevices by shrinking hydrogels to create 3D patterns. This technique uses ultrafast two-photon lithography and can produce high-resolution patterns up to 13 times larger than the original size, enabling the creation of complex nanostructures.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2022

A rough start can lead to a strong bond

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a cheap and simple method to bond polymers to galvanized steel, resulting in lightweight and durable materials. The process involves pre-treating the steel with an acid wash and dipping it in hot water, creating nanoscale needle structures that allow for strong mechanical linkages.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Manufacturing Processes·DateDec 21, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Direct laser writing system for high-resolution, high-efficiency nanofabrication

A new parallel peripheral-photoinhibition lithography system has been developed, enabling the fabrication of subdiffraction-limit features with high efficiency. The system uses two beams to excite and inhibit polymerization, allowing for nonperiodic and complex patterns to be printed simultaneously.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateDec 19, 2022

New 3D live hologram technology to save lives in field hospitals

Researchers at ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems have developed a miniaturized optical system that can be integrated on a chip, allowing for the creation of 3D holograms. This technology has the potential to replace current 2D imaging, enabling less invasive surgeries and better surgical outcomes.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2022

Paper-thin solar cell can turn any surface into a power source

MIT engineers create ultralight fabric solar cells that can generate 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar cells, making them ideal for wearable power fabrics or deployment in remote locations. The technology can be integrated into built environments with minimal installation needs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall Methods·DateDec 9, 2022

CityU develops two novel hydrogen production catalysts based on mineral gel and "crystalline-amorphous" dual-phase nano-aluminium alloy

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a new ultra-stable hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst based on two-dimensional mineral gel nanosheets. The catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity and long-term durability, with an overpotential of only 38.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022
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.

New monochromator optics for tender X-rays

The new monochromator optics increase photon flux in the tender X-ray range by a factor of 100, allowing highly sensitive spectromicroscopic measurements with high resolutions. This enables data collection on nanoscale materials, such as catalytically active nanoparticles and modern microchip structures, for the first time.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalSmall Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022

Explainable AI-based physical theory for advanced materials design

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science developed an 'extended Landau free energy model' to analyze complex interactions in nanomagnetic devices, enabling causal analysis and visualization. The model proposed optimal structures for nano-devices with low power consumption.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

Single-cell-driven tri-channel encryption meta-displays

A POSTECH research team developed single-cell-driven tri-channel encryption meta-displays, which project different images depending on where you look at them. These displays overcome the limitations of conventional metasurfaces by combining amplitude modulation and geometric phase manipulation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateNov 24, 2022
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.

Scientists build nanoscale parapets, aqueducts, and other shapes

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory create a new way to guide the self-assembly of novel nanoscale structures using simple polymers as starting materials. The team describes their approach in a paper published in Nature Communications, which shows that different shapes have dramatically different electrical conductivity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2022

Next generation material that adapts to its history

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new material that changes its electrical behavior based on previous experience, effectively giving it adaptive memory. The material responds differently to varying magnetic field strengths, which affects its conductivity and allows for bistability and rudimentary learning-like properties.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 15, 2022

Centimeter-scale multicolor printing with a pixelated optical cavity

Researchers have developed a method for centimeter-scale color printing using grayscale laser writing, achieving vivid and fine-tunable colors. The technique leverages pixelated optical cavities to generate transmission colors with a transmission efficiency of 39-50%.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateNov 10, 2022

Novel nanowire fabrication technique paves way for next generation spintronics

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel nanowire fabrication technique, allowing for the direct creation of ultrafine L10-ordered CoPt nanowires with high coercivity on silicon substrates. The technique enables significant improvements in spintronic device fabrication.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNanoscale Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New insights into nanochannel fabrication using femtosecond laser pulses

Researchers developed a novel method to create deep nanochannels in hard and brittle materials like silica, diamond, and sapphire. By employing femtosecond laser direct writing technology, they achieved sub-100-nm feature sizes and ultrahigh aspect ratios.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateNov 2, 2022

Building with nanoparticles, from the bottom up

MIT researchers have developed a new approach to assemble nanoscale devices from the bottom up, using precise forces to arrange particles and transfer them to surfaces. This technique enables the formation of high-resolution, nanoscale features integrated with nanoparticles, boosting device performance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 26, 2022

Breakthrough: The world's smallest photon in a dielectric material

A research team from DTU has successfully designed and built a structure that concentrates light in a volume 12 times below the diffraction limit, paving the way for revolutionary new technologies. The breakthrough could lead to more sustainable chip architectures that use less energy.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 26, 2022

Tandem solar cells with perovskite: nanostructures help in many ways

Researchers at HZB develop tandem solar cells using perovskite and silicon, achieving record-breaking efficiencies of up to 29.8%. Customized nanotextures improve perovskite semiconductor materials by reducing reflection losses and parasitic absorption.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2022

Acidic layer in single-walled carbon nanotubes facilitates confinement of anion impurities

Researchers at Okayama University found that an acidic adsorption layer in carbon nanotubes facilitates efficient adsorption of negatively charged nitrate anions, making the aqueous solution alkaline. This study provides a novel model for designing carbon nanotubes suitable for ion adsorption and purification.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

CityU chemists boost eco-friendly battery performance using catalysts with unconventional phase nanostructures

Researchers have discovered an innovative way to enhance the energy efficiency of metal-carbon dioxide batteries by introducing unconventional phase nanomaterials as catalysts. The novel design boosts battery energy efficiency up to 83.8%, contributing to carbon-neutral goals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2022

The “dense” potential of nanostructured superconductors

Researchers have successfully prepared highly dense superconducting bulk magnesium diboride with a high current density using an unconventional spark plasma sintering method. The material exhibits excellent superconducting properties, including a high critical current density of up to 6.75 x 10^5 ampere/cm^2 at -253°C.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalNanomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

HKU-CAS researchers make history: Biomimetic dual-color domes programmable for encryption

Researchers from HKU-CAS have created a new material that can produce dual-color spots inspired by nature, leading to innovative applications in message encryption and storage. The breakthrough was achieved through the self-assembly of nanostructures in a one-pot method, enabling programmable binary color information.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Shining light on why plastics turn yellow

Researchers have identified surface-based chiral nanostructures as the potential culprit behind plastics turning yellow over time. The study suggests that these structures, formed on the surface of polyethylene films exposed to UV light, are a key factor in the degradation process and the resulting yellow color change.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateSep 6, 2022
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.

Simple technique ushers in long-sought class of semiconductors

Researchers from Osaka University developed a versatile method for preparing heterodimensional superlattices, exhibiting anisotropic electrical conductivity and the anomalous Hall effect at room temperature. This innovation promises to enhance data storage density, lighting efficiency, and electronic device speed.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022

Microscopy technique reveals hidden nanostructures in cells and tissues

Researchers developed a novel way to visualize densely packed molecules using expansion microscopy, allowing for the first time their imaging. The technique enables visualization of nanostructures found in neurons and Alzheimer's-linked amyloid beta plaques.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 29, 2022

UMass Amherst researchers pioneer nanoelectronic sensor that simultaneously measures electrical and mechanical activity in heart cells

Researchers from UMass Amherst have created a tiny sensor that can simultaneously measure electrical and mechanical cellular responses in cardiac tissue. This breakthrough device has the potential to lead-edge applications in cardiac-disease experiments and improve health monitoring for cardiac disease studies.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2022
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.

Nanoscale fluid-phase changes revealed

Researchers developed a nanopore-scale glass-topped lab-on-a-chip to study complex fluid behaviors at the nanoscale. The device allowed for direct visual recordings of liquid to vapor and back to liquid phase changes, revealing that nanopore behavior influences production and affecting recovery discrepancies.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalLangmuir·TypeNews article·DateAug 11, 2022