Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New method boosts syngas generation from biopolyols

Researchers developed a new method to generate syngas from biopolyols using photocatalytic biomass conversion at room temperature, exhibiting high efficiency and selectivity. The catalyst featuring surface sulfate ions increased electron-proton transfer, promoting syngas production with 9-fold higher CO generation rate.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 6, 2021

Elegant constrictions in a cellular kill switch

Researchers have revealed the 3D atomic structure of the human PANX1 protein, a channel pore that plays a crucial role in pyroptosis, a form of cell death triggered by an immune response. The study provides new insights into the mechanism controlling pyroptosis and opens up potential avenues for developing targeted therapies.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCell Discovery·DateMay 5, 2021

New algorithm uses a hologram to control trapped ions

Researchers have discovered a precise way to control individual ions using holographic optical engineering technology. The new technology promises to aid the development of quantum industry-specific hardware and potentially quantum error correction processes.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateMay 5, 2021
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.

New look at a bright stellar nursery

High-resolution VLA radio images of W49A show changes in ionized gas regions, including new activity and supersonic gas motions. Astronomers plan to continue observing this region to track changes and reveal details about star formation processes.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateMay 4, 2021

Bai lab develops stable, efficient, anode-free sodium battery

Bai lab creates a stable, efficient anode-free sodium battery that achieves high performance while eliminating the need for a traditional anode material. The new design uses a thin layer of copper foil as the current collector, resulting in significant improvements in size and cost compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 3, 2021

Creation without contact in the collisions of lead and gold nuclei

Experiments show that photon collisions lead to excess particles, previously unexplained. Theoretical description now includes photon interactions to explain data collected from LHC and RHIC collisions.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateApr 29, 2021
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.

Discovery of an elusive cell type in fish sensory organs

Researchers identified a new cell type called neuromast-associated ionocytes in zebrafish sensory organs that play a crucial role in regulating the fluid composition. These cells are responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation, and their dysfunction is linked to hearing loss and vestibular defects.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 26, 2021

From toxic ions to single-atom copper

Researchers have discovered a new method for converting toxic copper ions into stable single-atom copper using bacteria found in copper mines. This process is safer and more efficient than current methods, which often require harsh chemicals and labor-intensive processes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 23, 2021

Specialized technique captures unique protein structures in neuropathy disorders

Researchers have developed a specialized technique to capture unique protein structures associated with neuropathy disorders, such as Charcot Marie Tooth and Dejerine-Sottas syndrome. The technique, ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS), reveals that an unstable mutant version of the PMP22 protein forms a stable complex called a dimer.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Skoltech scientists create a new electronegativity scale

Researchers at Skoltech created a new electronegativity scale, improving Pauling's original scale with a formula that treats molecule stabilization as a multiplicative effect. The new scale works for both small and large differences in electronegativity, accurately predicting chemical bond energies and reactions.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2021

Plasma jets stabilize water to splash less

Researchers at KAIST discovered that plasma jets produce more stable interactions with water surfaces compared to neutral gas jets, reducing bubbling and splashing. The study's findings will help improve our understanding of plasma-liquid interactions and their applications in various industrial fields.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

DNA--Metal double helix

A team developed a novel approach to generate precisely controlled, helical palladium-DNA systems that mimic the organization of natural base pairs in double-stranded DNA molecules. The process is based on self-organized assembly of a special palladium complex and single-stranded DNA molecules.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 26, 2021

Commencement of shortwave propagation simulator (HF-START) service

The HF-START simulator estimates and provides shortwave propagation information in real-time under realistic ionospheric fluctuations based on ground-based observations and model calculations. The system allows users to visualize radio wave propagation paths and clarify the impact of space weather on communication.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateMar 24, 2021

The blast that shook the ionosphere

A high-velocity atmospheric wave was generated by Beirut's 2020 ammonium nitrate explosion, rivalling those from volcanic eruptions. The blast caused electron disturbances in Earth's upper atmosphere, including changes in total electron content in the ionosphere.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2021
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.

USTC detects a sharp rise in detection rate of broad absorption line variations

Researchers from USTC detected a 'sharp rise' signature in detection rate of BAL variations, leading to ionized gas density determination. They found the detection rate curve could distinguish gaseous components with different densities, optimizing their method measuring gas density by trec.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMar 3, 2021

New study challenges 'established' mechanism about selectivity of cellular ion channels

A team of researchers from the University of Fukui and Kanazawa University have challenged the long-held assumption that potassium channels are highly selective for potassium ions. Their findings indicate that sodium ions can also pass through these channels, with a conductance one-eightieth that of potassium ions.

SourceUniversity of Fukui·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2021

Weakness is strength for this low-temperature battery

A new type of electrolyte weakly binds to lithium ions, enabling a battery to retain its capacity at -60 degrees Celsius. The researchers discovered that the binding strength between lithium and the electrolyte determines the battery's performance at low temperatures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 25, 2021

Investigating the wave properties of matter with vibrating molecules

Researchers have developed a novel spectroscopy technique to measure the wave properties of molecular vibrations, achieving resolution capacity 10,000 times higher than previous methods. The experiment confirms quantum theory's prediction regarding atomic nuclei behavior with high accuracy.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 18, 2021
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.

A new perceptually-consistent method for MSI visualization

Researchers propose a new Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) method that uses the theory of human color perception to create more interpretable images. The approach preserves borders and gradients, enabling better analysis of molecular distributions in tissues.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 11, 2021

Signs of burnout can be detected in sweat

A wearable sensor developed by EPFL's Nanolab and Xsensio measures cortisol levels in sweat to detect signs of burnout, providing a non-invasive and precise way to quantify stress levels. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the study of physiological rhythms and the treatment of stress-related diseases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCommunications Materials·DateFeb 5, 2021

The proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids, a key component in fuel cells. The study reveals that the mechanism shifts from proton hopping to vehicle mechanism with increasing acidity, enabling the development of new hydrogen ion conductors.

SourceNiigata University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateFeb 4, 2021
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.

Scientists' discovery is paving the way for novel ultrafast quantum computers

Researchers at the University of Tartu have discovered a way to create ultrafast optical quantum computers using rare earth ions. The new method uses microcrystals synthesised on the basis of mixed optical fluoride crystal matrices, enabling faster computation and fewer errors compared to earlier solutions.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalOptics Communications·DateJan 15, 2021

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

Enlightening dark ions

Researchers at University of California - Santa Barbara have created a new way to detect dark ions using laser-cooled radium molecules. This breakthrough allows for precise measurements of ion motional frequency and mass, enabling sensitivity to time symmetry violations in quantum mechanics.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 12, 2021
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.

Construction of carbon-based cell-like-spheres for robust potassium anode

Researchers at Hunan University and Clemson University have developed a new type of electrode material inspired by biological cells. The material, called biomimetic carbon cells, improves the cycling stability of potassium-ion batteries and allows for longer continuous operation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 9, 2021

Bionic idea boosts lithium-ion extraction

Scientists have developed a bioinspired material that enhances lithium-ion extraction by controlling interlayer spacing and achieving stable ordered nanostructures. The new membrane shows higher toughness and efficiently controls Li+ permeation rate, outperforming other materials.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateDec 30, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Flexible and powerful electronics

Researchers at University of Tsukuba develop a new carbon-based electrical device, π-ion gel transistors (PIGTs), with improved conductivity. The innovative technology may lead to the creation of flexible electronics and efficient photovoltaics.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 16, 2020

Graduate student's BADASS code has astronomical benefits

A graduate student developed an open-source code called BADASS, which provides a way to fit stellar motions simultaneously with other components in astronomical spectra. The code is versatile enough to fit not just active galactic nuclei but also normal galaxies, and can be used for any kind of spectroscopy.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 16, 2020

A colossal step for electronics

Researchers at Osaka University have created thin films of neodymium nickel oxide with an electrical resistance that can change dramatically by controlling the distribution of hydrogen ions. This breakthrough could lead to novel switches and potentially entirely new kinds of computer circuits.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 8, 2020

Research brief: Global trends in nature's contributions to people

A new study examines global trends in nature's contributions to people, revealing declines in natural regulations of water pollutants and negative impacts on crop yields. The research highlights the critical need for better management of earth systems to ensure sustainable benefits for future generations.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 7, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists get the lowdown on sun's super-hot atmosphere

Researchers find preferential heating of heavier ions like silicon in the transition region, which is thought to be a key mechanism for coronal heating. The study provides insights into how magnetic reconnection and ion cyclotron heating contribute to the sun's super-hot atmosphere.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 7, 2020

Nonlinear ionization dynamics of hot dense plasma observed in a laser-plasma amplifier

Researchers have directly observed the formation and interaction of highly ionized krypton plasma using femtosecond coherent ultraviolet light and a novel four-dimensional model. The study reveals strongly nonlinear behavior in laser-plasma interaction, allowing for the creation of well-defined plasma conditions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 1, 2020
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.

On-chip erbium-doped lithium niobate microcavity laser

Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University have successfully designed and fabricated a microcavity on a lithium niobate chip, achieving integrated light source in the communication band. The innovative technology realizes the potential of lithium niobate thin films for efficient optoelectronic integration.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 30, 2020

New material 'mines' copper from toxic wastewater

A new material called ZIOS has been designed to capture copper ions from wastewater with unprecedented precision and speed. The material selectively removes copper, a contaminant linked to disease and organ failure, without removing desirable ions or nutrients.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2020

More skin-like, electronic skin that can feel

Scientists at POSTECH have created a multimodal ion-electronic skin that can measure both temperature and mechanical stimulation simultaneously. This breakthrough could lead to the development of wearable temperature sensors and artificial skin for humanlike robots, potentially restoring the sense of touch in patients with tactile sens...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience·DateNov 24, 2020
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.

A filter for environmental remediation

Researchers developed a nanopowder made of sodium titanate nanofibers that can efficiently capture Co2+ ions, increasing surface area for improved removal efficiency. The seaweed-like morphology enhances the filter's ability to remove hazardous heavy metals and radionuclides from water.

SourceOsaka University·JournalRSC Advances·DateNov 19, 2020

A new understanding of ionic interactions with graphene and water

A Northwestern University research team has uncovered new findings on the role of ionic interaction within graphene and water. The insights could inform the design of energy-efficient electrodes for batteries and provide backbone ionic materials for neuromorphic computing applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateNov 17, 2020
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.

Handles and holes in abstract spaces: how a material conducts electricity better

A new theory developed by scientists at SISSA has established a relationship between the presence of 'handles' in the space of atom and molecule arrangements and a material's electrical conductivity. The research found that materials equipped with handles, previously thought to be insulators, can conduct electricity like metals.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 13, 2020

A better understanding of coral skeleton growth suggests ways to restore reefs

A new study has identified the coral skeleton growth mechanism, revealing that controlling water temperature is crucial for restoring reefs. The research suggests that corals regulate their internal ion concentrations by pumping calcium and carbonate ions from seawater through coral tissue.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 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.

Highly selective membranes

A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo has discovered a feedback system between water molecules that opens up new design possibilities for highly selective membranes. These membranes, which can filter out viruses and other contaminants, could also be used to improve lithium-ion battery performance.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 20, 2020

A controllable membrane to pull carbon dioxide out of exhaust streams

A team of MIT chemical engineers has developed a system to continuously remove carbon dioxide from waste gases using an electrochemically assisted membrane. The membrane's permeability can be switched on and off at will, allowing for continuous operation without moving parts or wasted space.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2020
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.

Scientists identify sensor protein that underlies bladder control

Researchers at Scripps Research have identified the PIEZO2 protein as a crucial part of how our body detects bladder fullness. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism underlying normal bladder function and may lead to new treatments for bladder control and urination issues, particularly among the elderly.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 14, 2020

Using electric current to stabilize low-permeability soils

Scientists at EPFL's LMS have developed a geoelectrochemical system that enhances biocement production and improves soil stabilization for low-permeability clay soils. The method harnesses bacterial metabolism and electric current to produce calcite crystals that durably bond soil particles together.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateOct 12, 2020

Groundbreaking study finds activator of magnesium dynamics in the body

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have discovered lactate, a metabolite elevated during exercise and diseases, acts as a signal to activate magnesium ions. This finding is expected to lead to the development of novel therapies for cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders like diabetes, and other conditions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCell·DateOct 8, 2020

Fighting pandemics with plasma

Researchers use plasma to kill pathogenic bacteria and viruses on PPE, with promising results shown for N95 masks and other supplies. A low-cost approach also uses ozone generated by a plasma ball to sterilize PPE, potentially reducing thousands of tons of waste per day.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 6, 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.

80-year-old antibiotic redesigned for new medical uses

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have transformed an old antibiotic into stronger, safer versions using a synthetic strategy. They created over 4,000 variations of gramicidin A, identifying 10 promising future antibacterial drugs with improved specificity towards bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 4, 2020

Light from rare earth: new opportunities for organic light-emitting diodes

Researchers have developed a new cerium(III) complex that achieves 100% EUE in OLEDs, leading to improved device stability and efficiency. The device shows a maximum external quantum efficiency of 20.8%, smaller roll-off, higher maximum luminance, and longer operating lifetime compared to traditional iridium-based OLEDs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 3, 2020