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Enzymatic engines

Pittsburgh researchers utilize enzymes to trigger mechanical movement in fluidic devices, showcasing a novel approach for self-powered systems. The studies reveal complex, time-dependent flows driven by simple enzymatic reactions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2016

New trigger for self-powered mechanical movement

A team of researchers at Penn State University and the University of Pittsburgh has developed a new way to use enzyme reactions to trigger self-powered mechanical movement. The enzyme pumps can precisely control flow rate without an external power source and turn on in response to specific chemicals in solution.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2016

More detailed analysis of how cells react to stress

A new method called 'ADPr-ChAP' allows researchers to identify chromatin sites modified by ADP-ribosylation in response to cell stress, enabling a better understanding of the cellular stress reaction. This breakthrough could lead to new ways of intervening in disease-making processes such as chronic inflammation and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 8, 2016
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.

Will climate change make the koalas' diet inedible?

Researchers investigate how climate change affects the balance between nutrient and toxicant content of eucalypt leaves, impacting koala survival. Climate-related stress may alter eucalypt leaf chemistry, affecting koalas' ability to detoxify and gain energy from their diet.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateFeb 3, 2016

Chemical study of the influence of the marine environment on historical buildings

Researchers studied three buildings near the sea, analyzing their materials and chemical reactions, to understand deterioration processes. The study developed a new analytical methodology using spectroscopic techniques, providing detailed information about material composition and pathologies.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJan 19, 2016
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.

MIT chemists characterize a chemical state thought to be unobservable

For the first time, MIT chemists have measured the energy of a transition state in a chemical reaction, a fleeting and unstable state thought to be impossible to experimentally characterize. By analyzing changes in vibrational energy levels, they were able to decipher the patterns of reactants approaching the transition state.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 10, 2015

New research helps to explain how temperature shifts the circadian clock

Scientists have discovered that the length of a living organism's 24-hour internal clock remains constant despite temperature fluctuations. The study found that external pathways sensitive to temperature cue the clock to skip ahead or backward, while the core mechanisms within the clock itself remain insensitive to temperature.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2015

Chemical microdroplet computers are easier to teach than to design

Researchers developed a novel strategy to create chemical microdroplet computers that can search databases and process information. Computer simulations confirmed the approach, achieving accuracy rates of over 90% in classifying cancer tumours.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateOct 14, 2015
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.

New material science research may advance tech tools

Researchers manipulated a steel gray mineral to create holes in thin films, which showed magnetic properties at their edges. The discovery raised the metal-to-insulator phase transition temperature of the film.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2015

Five reasons why sugar is added to food

A study by University of Minnesota authors reveals five key roles sugar plays in food: improving flavor, enhancing color, adding bulk and texture, aiding fermentation, and preserving foods. The research discusses the challenges of labeling added sugar and replacing it in foods.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·DateAug 18, 2015

Tiny, light-activated crystal sponges fail over time. Why?

University at Buffalo chemist Jason Benedict is investigating why light-activated MOF crystals lose their sponging capabilities over time. He hopes his research will provide insight into how scientists can extend the crystals' lives and utilize them for future high-tech applications.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateAug 6, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The bold and the shy one: Could woodlice have personalities?

A study by Dr. Ivan Tuf's team found that Common rough woodlice exhibit individual patterns of defensive behavior, suggesting the presence of personality traits. The researchers observed repeatability in reactions to external impacts, identifying some woodlices as 'bold' and others as 'shy'.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 30, 2015

From power grids to heartbeat: Using mathematics to restore rhythm

Researchers have developed a method to revive oscillations in complex networks, including power grids and biological systems. This approach uses advanced mathematical analysis to stabilize rhythms, which can be disrupted by external factors such as renewable energy fluctuations or changes in the human cardiovascular system.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2015

Heat buckyballs to help environment

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in developing tunable carbon-capture materials by heating buckyballs to alter their properties. This process enables the creation of materials that can selectively capture carbon dioxide from various sources, including industrial flue gases and natural-gas wells.

SourceRice University·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateJul 13, 2015
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.

Tunneling out of the surface

A research team has discovered a new chemical reaction pathway on titanium dioxide that allows hydrogen atoms to tunnel away from the surface. This breakthrough could lead to efficient hydrogen storage technology, addressing the challenge of storing and transporting hydrogen for renewable energy applications.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 9, 2015

Researchers grind nanotubes to get nanoribbons

Rice University researchers have developed a new method to create valuable graphene nanoribbons by grinding carbon nanotubes, eliminating the need for harsh chemical solutions. This solid-state process enables strong chemical coupling between nanostructures and produces novel forms of nanostructured products with specific properties.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 15, 2015

Milk proteins may protect against cardiovascular disease

Researchers found that naturally fermented milk-based products can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in mice, offering potential antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits. The study suggests that these compounds could be used as potential ingredients for improving human cardiovascular health.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJun 11, 2015

MIT team creates ultracold molecules

Researchers successfully cooled sodium potassium molecules to a temperature just above absolute zero, creating exotic states of matter with strong dipole moments. The ultracold molecules exhibited long lifetimes and resisted reactive collisions, paving the way for new discoveries in quantum mechanics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 10, 2015
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.

MIPT physicists develop ultrasensitive nanomechanical biosensor

The new sensor can track changes in mass of a few kilodaltons in real time, enabling early diagnosis of diseases like cancer. It detects biological objects, such as viral disease markers, through cantilever oscillations, making it a highly sensitive and scalable technology.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 9, 2015

Getting 'inked' may come with long-term medical risks, physicians warn

A novel survey of New Yorkers with tattoo-related complications found high rates of infection, itching and swelling that lasted longer than four months. Physicians warn of potential long-term consequences due to poorly understood chemical composition of colored inks.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateMay 27, 2015

Location matters in the lowland Amazon

Researchers used high-tech instruments to map canopy chemistry in the Amazon, finding that plants in different areas produce unique chemicals based on topography. The study reveals a hidden tapestry of chemical variation, highlighting the importance of geography in shaping ecosystem functions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 25, 2015

Nature inspires first artificial molecular pump

Researchers at Northwestern University develop first artificial molecular pump, mirroring the pumping mechanism of life-sustaining proteins in living cells. The tiny machine can force molecules to move against their natural flow, storing energy for potential use in molecular machines and artificial muscles.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 19, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

High flavoring content in some e-cigarettes may be cause for concern

A recent study found that some e-cigarette flavors contain high levels of chemicals that exceed recommended exposure limits and could be respiratory irritants. The research analyzed 30 products and found that 13 contained flavoring chemicals totaling more than 1% by volume, with some levels reaching as high as 3% by weight.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateApr 15, 2015

Ferromanganese crusts record past climates

Scientists have discovered that ferromanganese crusts, up to 26 cm thick, record past climate changes in the Arctic. The crusts' slow growth rates and geochemical fingerprints of their source regions provide valuable information on ocean currents and climate conditions over millions of years.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 9, 2015
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.

Pens filled with high-tech inks for do-it-yourself sensors

Researchers developed bio-inks that react with chemicals, allowing the creation of reusable glucose sensors on skin and leaves. The pens can also detect pollutants and hazardous materials, enabling potential applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and security. Future steps include connecting sensors wirelessly to monitor...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Direct observation of bond formations

A team of scientists successfully observed the birth of molecular bonds using femtosecond X-ray scattering. The technique allows for direct visualization of chemical reactions, enabling researchers to better understand light energy conversion and develop new renewable energy resources.

SourceHigh Energy Accelerator Research Organization/KEK·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

Turing also present at the nanoscale

Researchers from Poland and Denmark demonstrate spontaneous formation of Turing patterns at the nanoscale, which can be used for surface modification of materials. The patterns can be 'imprinted' in other chemical compounds, opening doors to interesting applications.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateFeb 5, 2015
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.

A 'GPS' for molecules

Scientists create a molecular 'GPS' to precisely locate metal ions in enzymes, which play key roles in metabolism and synthesis. This innovation uses spin-labeled amino acids to track metal ion positions, enabling better understanding of biochemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 19, 2014

Is the label 'hypoallergenic' helpful or just marketing hype?

A recent study on personal care products found that most contain skin allergens despite being marketed as hypoallergenic. The FDA has not set standards for the label, and companies are self-regulating, but this doesn't guarantee a safer product.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 17, 2014

X-ray laser acts as tool to track life's chemistry

Researchers capture highest-resolution protein snapshots with X-ray laser to track structural changes in photosynthetic bacteria upon light exposure. This breakthrough paves the way for studying biologically important molecules at ultrafast timescales.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2014

Ultrafast complex molecular simulations by 'cutting up molecules'

A novel ultrafast quantum chemical method called FMO-DFTB enables rapid simulations of complex molecular systems, achieving a huge improvement over traditional methods. The method has successfully evaluated large molecules including polypeptides, DNA segments, small proteins, and fullerite surfaces.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateDec 4, 2014

Sophisticated HIV diagnostics adapted for remote areas

Researchers have developed a low-cost, electricity-free device capable of detecting HIV-1 DNA using a small scale chemical reaction. The NINA system can detect infection at an early stage, allowing for immediate treatment and reducing the risk of loss to follow-up.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 1, 2014
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.

Mineralization of sand particles boosts microbial water filtration

Researchers found that microbial activity increases with mineral deposits on sand particles in rapid sand filters, removing impurities like iron and ammonia. The study refutes the conventional assumption that minerals interfere with microbial colonization, suggesting potential improvements in drinking water production.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 10, 2014

Penn chemists observe key reaction for producing 'atmosphere's detergent'

Researchers track Criegee intermediate through reaction to produce hydroxyl radicals, providing insights into atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling. The study's findings shed light on the dominant source of hydroxyl radicals at night, playing a significant role in the atmosphere during winter.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2014

Skin pigment renders sun's UV radiation harmless using projectiles

Researchers discovered that skin pigment eumelanin converts harmful UV radiation into heat through a rapid chemical reaction. This process has almost 100% efficiency and prevents UV energy from causing harm, making the body more resistant to sun damage.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 26, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Doing science just got cheaper -- and faster

A team of researchers at Michigan Technological University has published an open-source library of syringe pump designs, making it cheaper for scientists to access this essential laboratory equipment. The designs can be printed on a 3D printer using inexpensive plastic filament and are customizable for specific experimental needs.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 17, 2014

Chemists discover way nose perceives common class of odors

Biochemists at City College of New York find a way to detect common class of odors using water's ability to undergo chemical reactions with aldehydes. Researchers propose that some odorant receptors recognize aldehydes by their reactivity, rather than structure, enabling the nose to distinguish them from similar chemicals.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateSep 10, 2014

Cool calculations for cold atoms

Researchers at Joint Quantum Institute develop universal theory for Efimov states, enabling prediction of chemical processes involving three or more atoms. The new theory successfully incorporates short-distance regime and van der Waals force, predicting a series of Efimov states with varying binding energies.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 2, 2014

Crohn's disease gene discovery points towards new treatments

Researchers have identified chemical changes in DNA that could screen people for Crohn's disease and reveal possible targets for new treatments. These genetic changes can be detected in blood samples, opening the door to a simple test for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalInflammatory Bowel Diseases·DateAug 26, 2014
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.

Smokers consume same amount of cigarettes regardless of nicotine levels

A recent study from the University of Waterloo monitored smokers switching to cigarettes with reduced nicotine levels, finding no change in puffing behavior or toxic chemical exposure. This suggests that reducing nicotine levels may not lead to an increase in cigarette consumption or nicotine intake.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCancer Epidemiology·DateAug 22, 2014

Bone chemistry reveals royal lifestyle of Richard III

A recent study by the British Geological Survey has analyzed the bone and tooth chemistry of King Richard III, revealing a change in diet and location in his early childhood and later life. The research suggests that Richard had a high status diet with expensive food and drink when he became king.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateAug 16, 2014

Watching Schrödinger's cat die (or come to life)

Physicists at UC Berkeley have demonstrated a way to follow the 'life history' of a quantum system, allowing for continuous error correction. This technology could enable steering quantum evolution and optimizing chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2014
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.

NMR under pressure: Reproducing deep-Earth chemistry

The device allows researchers to study chemical reactions in liquid water under pressure without it freezing into a solid. High-pressure measurements shed light on calcium ions and may impact hydraulic fracturing and nuclear waste behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 11, 2014

Rice's Thomann wins CAREER grant to study photocatalysis

Isabell Thomann's research focuses on improving photocatalysis, a process that uses light to drive chemical reactions, with a goal of reducing carbon dioxide using sunlight. She will use an ultrafast laser spectroscopy system to study short-lived chemical intermediates and optimize the efficiency and selectivity of chemical reactions.

SourceRice University·DateJun 19, 2014

Steering chemical reactions with laser pulses

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have successfully controlled the splitting of hydrocarbons into smaller fragments using femtosecond laser pulses. By manipulating the distribution of electrons, scientists can induce chemical reactions and select specific reaction paths.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 23, 2014

New methodology to find out about yeast changes during wine fermentation

Researchers developed a new methodology to study yeast changes during wine fermentation, which can predict yeast behavior and improve wine quality. The study found that simulating yeast metabolism and understanding chemical composition of grape must are crucial for developing a forecasting model.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateApr 8, 2014
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.

Researcher: Study on element could change ballgame on radioactive waste

A team of chemists, led by Professor Thomas Albrecht-Schmitt at Florida State University, has made significant discoveries about the element californium. The findings suggest that californium can bond and separate other materials with remarkable abilities, making it resistant to radiation damage.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 23, 2014

Turing's theory of morphogenesis validated 60 years after his death

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and Brandeis University have provided experimental evidence validating Alan Turing's theory of morphogenesis in cell-like structures. The study confirms the prediction of six different patterns and discovers a seventh, demonstrating how identical biological cells differentiate into distinct...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2014