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Platinum forms nano-bubbles

Researchers at DESY NanoLab discovered that platinum oxidizes more readily than expected when exposed to high pressures of oxygen, forming nano-bubbles. This phenomenon has significant implications for applications such as catalytic converters in cars and electrochemical sensors.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalSolid State Ionics·DateJan 25, 2019

Multiple sclerosis: Perilous ruptures

A team of researchers has identified a mechanism that contributes to the degeneration of axons in multiple sclerosis, leading to permanent neurological deficits. They found that minuscule ruptures in the cell membrane allow calcium ions to enter the neuron, disrupting its balance and ultimately killing it.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNeuron·DateJan 24, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Marine bacterium sheds light on control of toxic metals

A marine bacterium has discovered a novel ferritin mechanism to control toxic metals, producing an enhanced ability to detoxify reactive oxygen species. This process is unique among known ferritins and holds promise for future engineered biocatalysts in drug development.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019
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.

Toward brain-like computing: New memristor better mimics synapses

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new memristor that can model synaptic behavior in hardware, allowing for exploration of competition and cooperation among neurons. The device enables controlled changes in conductance, mimicking the strengthening or weakening of connections between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 17, 2018

Researchers use jiggly Jell-O to make powerful new hydrogen fuel catalyst

Researchers developed a cheap and effective new catalyst that can split water just as efficiently as costly platinum. The catalyst is made from nanometer-thin sheets of metal carbide and is manufactured using a self-assembly process that relies on gelatin, similar to Jell-O.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 14, 2018

Experiments at PPPL show remarkable agreement with satellite sightings

Experiments at PPPL demonstrate striking similarities between laboratory findings and satellite observations of magnetic reconnection in space. Researchers found that electron and ion currents flow perpendicular to the magnetic field, converting energy and leading to northern lights, solar flares, and geomagnetic storms.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 7, 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.

Iron-rich lamellae in the semiconductor

Scientists at HZDR created an iron-rich compound in a semiconductor that became magnetic due to the formation of two-dimensional lamellae. This unusual structure could help understand superconductors and optimize their properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateDec 7, 2018
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.

Big results from small solutions: new method for analyzing metalloproteins

Researchers developed a new EPR method using a nanomembrane to analyze metalloproteins with minimal liquid sample. The technique detects changes in magnetic properties and enables sensitive measurements across a wide frequency range, shedding light on the mechanisms behind these vital proteins' functions.

SourceKobe University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 29, 2018

Microbes 'MacGyver' membrane transport

E. coli's KdpFABC transport system uses a unique combination of pore and transporter to import potassium ions into the cell, blurring the boundaries between passive transport and active transport complexes. This discovery challenges the long-held dogma that these two systems are mutually exclusive.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2018
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.

Study opens route to ultra-low-power microchips

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to control magnetic properties of thin-film materials using hydrogen ions, enabling spintronics devices that consume less power and generate less heat. This breakthrough has the potential to overcome physical limitations in memory and logic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 12, 2018

How to produce fluorescent nanoparticles for medical applications in a nuclear reactor

Scientists developed a new method to produce nanodiamonds and silicon carbide with defined defects, utilizing neutron irradiation in nuclear reactors. This approach enables the efficient production of rare nanomaterials for medical applications, including cancer diagnostics.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Coping with errors in the quantum age

ETH Zurich researchers have demonstrated a novel quantum error correction technique that can monitor and correct errors in real-time. The technique, which uses trapped ions to encode quantum information, has been successfully tested with repeated measurements on the same system, exceeding previous experimental limits.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature·DateNov 5, 2018

Sussex breakthrough prepares quantum computers to leave the lab

Scientists at the University of Sussex have developed a method to reduce disruptive environmental effects on trapped ion quantum computers. The breakthrough enables the creation of large-scale quantum computers capable of solving complex problems, with potential applications in fields such as medicine, finance, and agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 31, 2018
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.

Multi-functional quantum bits for future computers

Rare earth ions exhibit potential for storing quantum states and interacting with each other, enhancing computation capacity. Researchers aim to establish scalable quantum technologies using these elements.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateOct 29, 2018

Invention of ionic decision-maker capable of self-learning

Researchers at NIMS Japan developed an ionic device that can make decisions quickly and adapt to changing situations without relying on computer memory. The technology has the potential to develop novel AI systems processing analog information using hardware, addressing issues with current digital-based systems.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2018

DGIST, identifying an initial growth process of calcium phosphate

A joint research team has discovered a new analysis method that reveals nanoparticles continue to grow and transform into bulk materials in the early stages of nanomaterial growth. This finding contradicts classical nucleation theory, which assumes critical nuclei are created early in material growth.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 10, 2018

Intense microwave pulse ionizes its own channel through plasma

Researchers have successfully observed and studied the ionization-induced self-channeling of a microwave beam in a neutral gas. This effect enables the microwave to propagate a longer distance, potentially leading to military applications as a directed-energy weapon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateOct 9, 2018
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.

Controlling chemical reactions near absolute zero

Researchers at EPFL have successfully controlled a chemical reaction just above absolute zero by manipulating atomic orientation and energies. The study has significant implications for understanding fundamental chemistry models.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemistry·DateOct 8, 2018
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.

Plasma thruster: New space debris removal technology

A new plasma thruster technology has been developed to remove space debris, decelerating it with a force imparted from the satellite. The system uses bi-directional ejection of plasma plumes, controlled by a magnetic field and gas injection, for efficient removal in three operational modes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2018

A one-way street for salt

Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism behind quinoa's ability to store salt in its bladder cells, allowing it to thrive in saline soils. This unique adaptation enables quinoa to transfer excess salt to final storage sites without harming the plant.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

Super cheap earth element to advance new battery tech to the industry

Purdue University researchers have developed a cheap and stable sodium-ion battery alternative to lithium-ion batteries, using sodium powder to prevent 'getting lost' during charging and discharging. The new technology has improved cycling performance and capacity of the battery.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateSep 19, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Nanoparticles in our environment may have more harmful effects than we think

Researchers found that nanoparticles and contaminants can be deadly to human cells, especially when combined. Exposure to silver nanoparticles alone was less toxic, but combining them with cadmium ions increased cell death by 60%. The study highlights the need for regulations on nanoparticle releases into the environment.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNanotoxicology·DateAug 20, 2018

Discovery of a structurally 'inside-out' planetary nebula

A team of scientists has discovered a unique planetary nebula with an inverted ionization structure surrounding a central star undergoing a 'born-again' process, which is expected to occur in the Sun's future evolution. This finding provides valuable insights into the late-stage evolution of stars like our Sun.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Battery breakthrough: Doubling performance with lithium metal that doesn't catch fire

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new rechargeable battery technology using lithium metal that can double the output of current lithium ion cells. The ceramic electrolyte-based approach eliminates the historic issues of poor durability and short-circuiting, enabling faster charging rates and longer lifetimes.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateAug 15, 2018

The behavior of water: scientists find new properties of H2O

Researchers at New York University find that water's density increases above freezing point and cooling it down reveals asymmetry in ion transport. This discovery could lead to new materials for clean energy applications and deeper understanding of water's properties.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 13, 2018

Renovations lead to big improvement at Nuclear Astrophysics lab

Researchers at a nuclear astrophysics lab achieved an order-of-magnitude increase in normalized brightness after upgrading their accelerator. The new system improved high-voltage source stability and signal-to-background ratio, enabling higher proton beam intensity without damaging targets.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateAug 7, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New lung cell type discovered

A new type of airway cell, pulmonary ionocytes, has been found to express high levels of CFTR, a protein mutated in cystic fibrosis. This discovery provides promising targets for future therapeutic strategies against the disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2018

Discovery gives cystic fibrosis researchers new direction

A team of researchers has identified a new type of pulmonary ionocyte, which is the site of cystic fibrosis-causing CFTR gene activity. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches by increasing CFTR activity in affected cells.

SourceNovartis Institutes for BioMedical Research·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2018

Lasers write better anodes

Researchers at KAUST have developed a laser-based process to create three-dimensional hard carbon anodes with improved conductivity and capacity for sodium-ion batteries. This breakthrough enables the mass production of high-performance anodes, paving the way for widespread adoption of sodium-ion batteries in energy storage applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 30, 2018

Antibacterial glass ionomer cement with chlorhexidine-encapsulated mesoporous silica

Researchers developed a novel antibacterial glass ionomer cement with chlorhexidine-encapsulated mesoporous silica, which significantly enhances anti-biofilm ability and maintains mechanical properties. The study proposes a new strategy for preventing secondary caries by using this modified GIC.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 25, 2018

Princeton's McComas will lead IMAP, a NASA mission to study the heliosphere

The Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission will investigate the heliosphere, surrounding our solar system, and collect data on particle acceleration and interaction with interstellar medium. The $492-million mission includes 10 instruments to resolve scientific questions about the solar wind and cosmic rays.

SourcePrinceton University·DateJul 18, 2018
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.

Materials processing tricks enable engineers to create new laser material

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a new laser material that combines high power density, ultra-short pulses, and superior thermal shock resistance. The material is achieved through a novel materials processing strategy that dissolves high concentrations of neodymium ions into alumina crystals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 18, 2018

Space: Tribology's final frontier

A team led by Lehigh University's Brandon Krick is using a Molybdenum Disulphide (MoS2) coating to reduce friction in space, addressing the challenges of high-temperature and corrosive environments. The research aims to improve satellite performance and reduce energy loss.

SourceLehigh University·DateJul 9, 2018

Kirigami-inspired technique manipulates light at the nanoscale

Researchers create nanodevices using kirigami-inspired technique to filter out circularly polarized light, potentially enabling new applications in sensing, computation, and communications systems. The approach could lead to smaller, more efficient detectors and nanoscale optical isolators for laser optical communications systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 6, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Oral delivery of insulin

A new oral insulin formulation based on ionic liquids has been successfully developed, showing stability at room temperature and under refrigeration. The formulation significantly reduces blood glucose levels in rats, with up to 45% decrease observed after oral delivery.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2018

Research team reverse way potassium channels work from bacteria to human

Researchers at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center identified a specific amino acid residue responsible for inverting potassium channel communication. The study paves the way for developing novel and safer therapeutic drugs to correct illnesses associated with potassium channel dysfunction.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2018

New discovery about the brain's water system may prove beneficial in stroke

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a new mechanism for transporting water to the brain, challenging the long-held belief that osmosis is responsible. The co-transporter process could potentially be targeted with medicine to treat conditions like brain haemorrhage and hydrocephalus.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2018

Graphene carpets: So neurons communicate better

Researchers at SISSA observed an increase in nerve cell activity on graphene carpets, attributed to ion 'trapping' that modulates its composition. This phenomenon enhances neuronal excitability, with specific effects depending on the graphene's support material.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 12, 2018
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.