Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New method to detect impact of sea level rise

Researchers developed a simple and fast method to analyze sulfur isotopes, enabling the detection of seawater intrusion into freshwater systems. This method can help investigate chemical changes in environments affected by sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalTalanta·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Alpine plant spins its own flavonoid wool

A newly discovered alpine plant, Dionysia tapetodes, produces fibres from tiny holes in its leaves, producing a stable wool-like material. Flavone and flavone derivatives form the complex structure of the wool through hydrogen bonding, allowing it to maintain stability.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateJun 17, 2021

Bacteria used to clean diesel-polluted soil in Greenland

Researchers found that bacteria can break down up to 82% of contaminated soil in five years through the landfarming method, a new approach for Arctic regions. The study demonstrates the potential of naturally occurring bacteria to remediate diesel pollution at abandoned military installations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJun 16, 2021

Researchers show new holistic approach to genetics and plant breeding

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a new method for plant breeding that considers the internal 'calculator' of plant seeds, allowing for more efficient crop improvement. The approach uses NIRS to analyze the chemical composition of grains and identify optimal genetic traits.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateApr 27, 2021
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.

A scanning transmission X-ray microscope for analysis of chemical states of lithium

A scanning transmission X-ray microscope for lithium analysis has been developed, enabling the study of chemical states and behaviors with high spatial resolution. The microscope uses a low-pass filtering zone plate to suppress higher-order harmonics, allowing for accurate measurement of XAS spectra.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 14, 2021

Electrochemical oxygen evolution on Hf2B2Ir5 electrode material

Researchers have discovered a new electrocatalyst, Hf2B2Ir5, that exhibits high activity in the oxygen evolution reaction during water electrolysis. The material's cage-like crystal structure and cooperative phases enable stable and efficient performance over long periods.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateNov 11, 2020

Samara Polytech chemists designed portable analyzers

Researchers at Samara Polytech develop cost-effective, portable analyzers for quick analysis of objects under study. The devices require no sampling and use light to illuminate the object, detecting signals through a light-guide cable.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalACS Sensors·DateOct 22, 2020

Examining CBD use for conditions with proven therapies

Researchers examined whether individuals are using cannabidiol (CBD) for diagnosable conditions with evidence-based therapies. The study found that many users were seeking alternative treatments, highlighting the need for more research on CBD's efficacy and safety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 15, 2020
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.

Curtin research creates faster, on-site way to detect PFAS

A new on-site detection method for PFAS, developed by Curtin University researchers, allows for immediate and accurate measurement of levels. This method could aid in the removal of persistent environmental pollutants from contaminated lands and waters around the world.

SourceCurtin University·DateSep 14, 2020

To recreate ancient recipes, check out the vestiges of clay pots

A study has discovered that unglazed ceramic cookware can retain the residue of not just the last meal cooked, but potentially earlier dishes, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient recipes. The research team analyzed chemical compounds adhering to and absorbed by the earthenware in which they were prepared.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 11, 2020

Smartwatch tracks medication levels to personalize treatments

Researchers developed a custom smartwatch that analyzes sweat to track medication levels in real-time. This wearable technology can help personalize treatment approaches by tailoring ideal drugs and dosages to individual needs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Biosignatures may reveal a wealth of new data locked inside old fossils

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a novel approach to finding biological signals in ancient fossils, providing insights into major evolutionary questions. The study has already revealed valuable information about the soft shells that encased early dinosaur eggs and identified an ancient creature known as the Tully Monster.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2020

Fluorine enables separation-free 'chiral chromatographic analysis'

Researchers developed a platform for rapid chiral analysis, producing chromatogram-like output without separation. The method effectively resolved a wide range of chiral molecules, including pharmaceuticals and biomolecules.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 2, 2020

Quantum diamond sensing

Researchers developed a new quantum sensing technique that allows high-resolution NMR spectroscopy on small molecules in dilute solution, achieving femtomole molecular sensitivity. This breakthrough enables chemical analysis and magnetic resonance imaging at the level of individual biological cells.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 17, 2020
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.

No smoke, but still hazardous

A KAUST research team discovered that IQOS emits 62 compounds, 52 of which were not found in Philip Morris International tests, including diacetyl and potentially carcinogenic diethylhexyl phthalate.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 4, 2020

Researchers reveal largest and hottest shield volcano on Earth

Researchers have identified the largest and hottest shield volcano on Earth as Pūhāhonu, which is nearly twice as big as Mauna Loa. The study reveals that hotspots can undergo pulses of melt production, rewriting the textbooks on mantle plumes.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 14, 2020
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.

Chemistry breakthrough could speed up drug development

Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a new method to grow crystals of organic soluble molecules from nanoscale droplets, allowing for rapid screening of hundreds of experiments in minutes. This breakthrough could transform the analysis of small molecules and accelerate the discovery of new pharmaceutical agents.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalChem·DateMay 8, 2020

Chemicals in the environment: A focus on mixtures

High-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with bioanalytical tools can characterize complex chemical mixtures and capture mixture effects in environmental samples. The CITEPro technology platform is a key tool in this approach, enabling the profiling of the exposome and elucidating drivers of chemical stress.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalScience·DateJan 23, 2020
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.

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.

Pachacamac Idol of ancient Peru was symbolically painted

The Pachacamac Idol, a sacred icon worshipped for nearly 700 years, was symbolically painted with red, yellow, and white colors using cinnabar pigment. The study confirms the idol's polychromatic design and sheds light on pre-Columbian cultural practices in South America.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 15, 2020

Barbequed clams on the menu for ancient Puerto Ricans

Scientists analyzed fossilized clam shells to reconstruct ancient cooking habits in Puerto Rico, finding that clams were cooked at temperatures between 100°C and 200°C. The results suggest that barbeque was a common method of cooking, unlike boiling, which may not have been widespread due to the lack of ceramic pottery technology.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 27, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Neandertal birch tar-hafted tool

Researchers discovered a Neandertal-made tar-backed tool from the North Sea, revealing the use of complex technology by Neandertals. The tool, dated to approximately 50,000 years old, suggests a considerable investment of resources in its production and maintenance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2019

Nanowires replace Newton's famous glass prism

Researchers have designed a nanowire spectrometer that can directly image single cells and analyze chemical fingerprints without the need for microscopes or bulky equipment. This breakthrough could lead to new generations of ultra-compact spectrometers with applications in biology, lab-on-a-chip systems, and smart wearables.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateSep 5, 2019
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.

When human expertise improves the work of machines

Researchers develop a technique called dimensional stacking to improve data analysis for materials scientists. By organizing data based on physical and chemical properties, machines can gain insights into complex materials like ferroelectrics. This approach shows that human experience still has a role in the age of machine intelligence.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 15, 2019

New research could provide better food and faster analysis of blood tests

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new method for analyzing gas chromatographic data using deep learning, allowing for faster and more accurate results. This technology has the potential to improve food quality control, detect food fraud, and enhance patient care by analyzing blood samples.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalTalanta·DateAug 15, 2019

Archaeology -- what the Celts drank

Researchers analyzed ceramic vessels from Mont Lassois to determine ancient Celtic drinking habits. They found that the Celts consumed imported Mediterranean wines and local beers, contradicting the assumption that only elites drank foreign wine.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

A comprehensive look at cow's milk

Scientists have developed a centralized database of all known bovine milk compounds, including over 2,300 previously unknown metabolites. The comprehensive analysis was made possible by combining targeted chemical analyses and digital text-mining tools.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 17, 2019

Fingerprints, revisited

Researchers are developing methods to extract DNA and analyze chemicals from fingerprints, improving identification rates. These techniques involve analyzing molecules like DNA, amino acids, or explosives left behind in fingerprints.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 13, 2019

Discovery of the oldest evidence of mobility on Earth

An international team has uncovered fossilized traces of motility in a 2.1 billion-year-old fossil deposit in Gabon, shedding light on the evolution of life on Earth. The discovery provides evidence of sophisticated multicellular organisms that could move through their mud in search of nutrients.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019
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.

Maestro's techniques

Researchers analyzed impasto layers in three of Rembrandt's paintings and found a rare lead mineral called plumbonacrite, which was not previously known to occur in historic paint layers. The study suggests that Rembrandt used a unique paint recipe.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 30, 2019

UBC researchers develop high-level gas detection system

Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have developed a state-of-the-art microfluidic gas detector that can detect small traces of gases quickly and efficiently. The device uses 3D-printed parts to create the microchannel and metal oxide semiconductor, and has potential applications in environmental monitoring, food quality assessments, ...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 23, 2019

Emerging trends in advanced nano-materials based electrochemical geno-sensors

The review highlights the development of advanced nano-materials for electrochemical geno-sensors, showcasing their high surface area, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and charge-sensitive conductance. These materials are used to detect chemical analytes with potential as a next-generation field-deployable analytical tool.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateDec 19, 2018

How microscopic machines can fail in the blink of an eye

Researchers at NIST made measurements of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) a hundred times faster than before, resolving fine details of transient motions. This breakthrough allows for quicker repetitive testing and assessment of durability in miniature mechanical systems.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateNov 30, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Authenticating the geographic origin of hazelnuts

Researchers develop NMR analysis to pinpoint hazelnut country of origin, identifying distinct metabolite profiles for specific regions. The new method achieved 96% accuracy and could be combined with existing tests for enhanced reliability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 28, 2018

Hydraulic fracturing and water quality

A study in central Pennsylvania found chemical and isotopic evidence of upward methane migration from the Marcellus shale, suggesting geochemical indicators for distinguishing recent methane contamination. The research also identified geological features facilitating methane migration near hydraulically fractured shale gas wells.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2018

Plug-and-play technology automates chemical synthesis

MIT researchers have developed a plug-and-play technology that automates chemical synthesis, allowing chemists to focus on analytical and creative aspects of their research. The system can optimize reactions in a single day, cutting weeks or months of optimization time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Geologists reveal ancient connection between England and France

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that the British mainland was formed from the collision of three ancient continental land masses: Avalonia, Laurentia, and Armorica. This finding explains the abundance of tin and tungsten in South West England, which is also found in Brittany and other areas of mainland Europe.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2018

Discovery of the earliest drawing

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known abstract drawing made with a piece of ocher used as a pencil, dated to 73,000 years ago. The drawing, found on a silcrete fragment in Blombos Cave in South Africa, confirms that early humans intentionally created and used symbols.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateSep 10, 2018
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.

Easter Island's society might not have collapsed

Recent study analyzes chemical makeup of tools used to create giant statues, suggesting a sophisticated society where people shared information and collaborated. The results contradict the popular narrative that Easter Island's inhabitants ran out of resources and warred themselves into extinction.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Indo-Pacific Archaeology·DateAug 13, 2018

New light shed on the people who built Stonehenge

A University of Oxford study suggests that some people buried at Stonehenge had moved with and transported bluestones from the Preseli Mountains in west Wales. The research combined radiocarbon-dating with new developments in archaeological analysis to investigate the lives of those buried at the iconic monument.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2018

The scent of a man: What odors do female blackbuck find enticing in a male?

Researchers from NCBS developed a protocol to analyze odor samples from dung piles of male blackbuck. They found that males with high mating success have richer odors in meta-cresol. This discovery has implications for understanding chemical communication in this species and potentially informing conservation efforts.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJun 29, 2018
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.

Italy's oldest olive oil discovered in peculiar pot

Researchers from University of South Florida have identified oleic and linoleic acids in ancient pottery from Sicily, dating back to the Early Bronze Age. The discovery confirms olive oil existed in Italy hundreds of years earlier than previously recorded.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAnalytical Methods·DateMay 30, 2018