Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Uncovering the cyclization mechanism of cyclic β-1,2-glucan synthase

A team of researchers has determined the detailed mechanism of cyclization catalyzed by the cyclization domain of cyclic β-1,2-glucan synthase from Thermoanaerobacter italicus. The study reveals that the enzyme produces β-glucosidase-resistant compounds and features a transglycosylation reaction.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Microbiology and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2024

Using light to precisely control single-molecule devices

Columbia University engineers have developed a novel approach to create highly conductive single-molecule devices using direct metal-metal contacts and light control. The discovery opens up new possibilities for designing smarter electronic components.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2024
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.

Groundbreaking study unveils unique roles of yeast protein complexes in cellular lifespan and environmental response by rationally engineering based on the predicted three-dimensional structures

Researchers discovered that two types of TORC1 complexes in yeast play unique roles in cellular responses to stress and lifespan regulation. The study's findings provide new insights into molecular evolution, cellular signaling pathways, and age-related diseases, offering promising avenues for human health advancements.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Cell Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 29, 2024
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.

Targeting the transporter

Researchers discover how S1P molecules are released from SPNS2 protein via small cavities, enabling potential treatment for inflammatory diseases. The study provides a foundation for designing future drugs targeting the protein.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalCell Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers uncover mechanisms behind enigmatic shapes of nuclei

Scientists have deciphered the assembly process of flower-like nuclei in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. This discovery enables potential therapeutic applications by guiding the development of new nuclear shapes to combat diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

BESSY II: Molecular orbitals determine stability

Researchers at BESSY II used RIXS and DFT simulations to analyze the electronic structures of fumarate, maleate, and succinate dianions. The study found that maleate is potentially less stable than fumarate and succinate due to its delocalized HOMO orbital, which can lead to weaker binding with molecules or ions.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2024

Down to the core of poxviruses

Researchers at ISTA have discovered the composition of poxviral cores, a key factor in their infectivity. The study's findings could lead to the development of new therapeutics targeting the viral core.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Scientists see an ultra-fast movement on surface of HIV virus

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a critical structure on the HIV virus that plays a crucial role in its infection process. By understanding this structure's dynamics, scientists may be able to design broadly neutralizing antibodies for an AIDS vaccine.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

DNA construction led to unexpected discovery of important cell function

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used DNA origami to activate the Notch receptor in a new way, revealing it can be activated 'on demand' with the help of a protein called Jag1. The study opens new avenues for understanding the Notch signalling pathway and its role in serious diseases like cancer and Alagille Syndrome.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

3D bioprinting of in vitro brain metastasis model

A team of researchers created a 3D bioprinted brain blood vessel model to investigate the impact of blood vessel curvature on metastatic cancer development. The model revealed that increased blood vessel curvature correlates with heightened cancer cell adherence and extravasation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2024
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.

Modified soft material promises better bioelectronics

Scientists have developed a new biocompatible material that can conduct electricity efficiently in wet environments and interact with biological media. The modified PEDOT:PSS enables the creation of organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) with high performance and excellent characteristics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2024

Stripes in a flowing liquid crystal suggest a route to “chiral” fluids

Researchers at MIT find that slow-flowing liquid crystals can spontaneously assemble into large, twisted, chiral structures, opening a new path to generating chiral materials. These structures could serve as spiral scaffolds for assembling intricate molecular structures and be used as optical sensors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2024

Mapping of the gene network that regulates glycan clock of ageing

A new study has identified three genes, MANBA, TNFRSF13B, and EEF1A1, as crucial in the regulation of IgG galactosylation, a trait associated with ageing. The research used GWAS to analyze IgG glycosylation phenotypes in a large sample size, increasing the understanding of this complex posttranslational modification.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024
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.

Elusive cytonemes guide neural development, provide signaling ‘express route’

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have visualized how cytonemes transfer signals across vast distances during neural development, establishing an 'express route' for communication between cells. This discovery provides insights into the complex process of mammalian nervous system development and highlights the crucia...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateJan 2, 2024

Scientists in Germany develop a new analytical method, which enables improved insight into (mRNA) nanoparticles and similar pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products

Scientists in Germany developed a new analytical method to precisely elucidate the size of particles, structure, and RNA molecules in pharmaceutical products. This information can help evaluate product quality, enabling improved development of new products.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2023

For this emergent class of materials, ‘solutions are the problem’

Rice University researchers have developed a new method for making covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that could revolutionize various fields such as energy applications, semiconductor devices, and drug delivery. The fast and low-cost approach uses vapor deposition to produce ordered 2D crystalline COFs.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Scientists reveal the molecular structure of a complex bacteriophage

Researchers have solved the molecular structure of a complete tailed virus with a flexible tail at unprecedented detail. This discovery has significant implications for phage therapies and the development of alternative treatments to antibiotics.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2023
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.

A sugar analysis could reveal different types of cancer

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a way to distinguish different types of structural changes in glycan molecules linked to various cancers. The AI-enhanced method uses mass spectrometry to identify patterns in data sets, providing a precise answer to what will change for a specific disease.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

New research shows how important protein keeps our cell membranes in balance

A study published in Nature Communications sheds light on the critical role of P4-ATPases, particularly ATP8B1-CDC50A, in maintaining lipid asymmetry in cell membranes. The research team used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the structure and function of the human flippase complex, revealing its regulation by phosphoinositides.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023
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.

From infamy to ingenuity

Researchers have uncovered the intricate molecular mechanism used by parasitic phytoplasma bacteria to manipulate plants. The discovery sheds light on a peculiar phenomenon in nature, where plants exhibit 'zombie-like' effects due to bacterial infection.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Hamburg collaboration paves the way to cleaner technologies for industry

A Hamburg collaboration between EMBL Hamburg and TUHH has yielded new insights into a lipid-degrading enzyme from an exotic microbe, which may contribute to the development of more sustainable industrial processes. The findings could help improve chemical processes in various branches of industry.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023
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.

Researchers propose MOF modular customization strategy for efficient membrane separations

Researchers propose a novel approach to customize metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for efficient membrane separations. The strategy involves modularizing custom defect-free MOF separation membranes, allowing for rapid production of high-performance membranes.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 13, 2023

Understanding the dynamic behavior of rubber materials

A team of researchers has developed a novel experimental system to simultaneously measure the mechanical properties and internal structure of rubber-like materials. The study found that strain within these materials is non-uniform, depending on the shape and size of composite particles.

SourceWaseda University·JournalMechanical Systems and Signal Processing·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Seeking stability to support sustainable outdoor solar cells

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed organic solar cells with record efficiencies and discovered a link between molecular structure and outdoor stability. The study found that fluorine-bearing functional end groups and long hydrocarbon side-chains enhance outdoor stability, protecting the cells...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJoule·DateNov 5, 2023
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.

A promising target to fight inflammatory bowel diseases

The Cusack group at EMBL Grenoble has provided insights into the interactions of XIAP and RIPK2 molecules involved in gut signalling pathways. This research sheds light on how these molecules interact, revealing a promising drug target for treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateOct 26, 2023

Physical theory improves protein folding prediction

Researchers developed a novel physical theory that can accurately predict protein folding, surpassing existing models like AlphaFold 2. The new model, WSME-L, can elucidate folding processes without limitations, enabling a comprehensive understanding of protein structures and behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

Absorption of light by molecules has applications in microscopy, medicine and data storage

A Brazilian physicist has developed an alternative method that reduces calculation time for simulating light absorption by molecules from two days to a few hours. This allows for high-resolution microscopy and the creation of precise 3D structures for data storage, with potential applications in medicinal treatments.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 11, 2023

Ancient architecture inspires a window to the future

Researchers developed a method to form tailored nanoscale windows in porous materials called MOFs using an architectural arch-forming template. This approach enables precise control over structure formation, leading to the creation of new materials with potential gas separation, medical applications and energy security benefits.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Synthesis·DateOct 2, 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.

Through the backdoor: How phosphate escapes from actin

The discovery sheds light on the mechanism of phosphate release from actin filaments, which is crucial for cell movement and disassembly. The researchers found that phosphate escapes through a molecular backdoor in the filament core, but the door remains closed for most of the time.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Making elbow room: Giant molecular rotors operate in solid crystal

A team at Hokkaido University has set a size record for dynamic motion in crystals, demonstrating the largest molecular rotor operational in the solid-state. The rotors consist of a central rotating molecule connected to stationary stator molecules, and can rotate at frequencies of 100–400 kHz.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Study reveals structure of crucial receptor in brain development, function

Scientists at OHSU elucidated the structure of Type A GABA receptors targeted by antidepressants and other pharmaceutical drugs, shedding light on their role in brain function and development. The study reveals dominant assemblies and states of the receptor, paving the way for the development of new compounds with improved efficacy.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Precisely arranging nanoparticles

A research team at Göttingen University has developed plasmonic molecules from nanoparticles using a novel process that precisely arranges the particles. This breakthrough enables the creation of large quantities of these compounds, which can be used for various functions in nanotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study explains role of certain types of oxide in structure and development of specialty glass

Researchers found that adding niobium oxide to silicate glass increases bond density and connectivity, enhancing mechanical and thermal stability. This discovery could lead to the development of innovative glass formulations for various applications, including optics, medicine, and data transmission.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalActa Materialia·DateSep 6, 2023

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023

Energy storage in molecules

A team of researchers has discovered a particularly efficient molecular structure for solar energy storage materials, which could lead to more efficient solar energy harvesting. The new molecules were identified by screening over 400,000 molecules with the help of machine learning and quantum computing.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 30, 2023

Sharing chemical knowledge between human and machine

Researchers developed an AI tool called DECIMER that can translate chemical structural formulae into machine-readable codes. This allows for the automatic search and processing of scientific articles containing chemical information.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 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.

Gold buckyballs, oft-used nanoparticle ‘seeds’ are one and the same

Rice University chemists have discovered that gold nanoparticles are synthesized from gold buckyballs, a finding that could revolutionize nanoparticle synthesis. This discovery was made by Matthew Jones and Liang Qiao, who found that the commonly used golden 'seed' particles were actually cousins of the original buckyballs.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2023

Like beads on a chain

A team of researchers developed a computational simulation that explains key mechanism of DNA segregation, providing new insights into the distribution of genetic information during bacterial cell division. The study reveals fundamental biochemical principles relevant to synthetic biology and medical applications.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

A new look inside Ebola's 'viral factories'

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the inner workings of Ebola virus replication inside host cells, revealing 'viral factories' that form clusters of viral proteins and genomes. These microscopic structures are formed in host cells and play a crucial role in the virus's life cycle.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2023

On-off switch for enzymes

A protein found in bacteria activates its enzymatic activity by up to 10,000 times when exposed to blue light, acting like an on-off switch. This discovery could lead to enhanced and optimized optogenetic tools and medical treatments.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 3, 2023

An escape signal for the nematode: Artificial intelligence helps elucidate structure of a novel light sensor

A team of scientists has successfully elucidated the structure and function of LITE-1, a biomolecule used by Caenorhabditis elegans to detect danger. The researchers used artificial intelligence to predict the structure of LITE-1, which is a channel protein that forms a pore in the cell membrane allowing charged particles to pass through.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

Multicyclic molecular wheels with polymer potential

Scientists have successfully created macro-rotaxanes with multicyclic wheels, which hold long molecular chains together to modify the properties of soft polymers. These new structures offer improved damping efficiency and potential applications in next-generation polymers and molecular computing.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

Study reveals long-debated makeup of the molecules that help organize your cells

A new study from the University of Chicago has laid out the internal structure of polyelectrolyte complexes, a special kind of molecular assembly that helps cells keep themselves organized. The researchers used a combination of simulations and neutron scattering to determine the precise structure of these molecules, which could lead to...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2023

USTC unveils 3D structure and molecular mechanism of platelet drug transporter ABCC4

The study reveals the molecular mechanism by which ABCC4 recognizes broad-spectrum substrates, providing a structural basis for rational design of platelet antagonists targeting ABCC4. The research also elucidated the molecular mechanism of ABCC4 in binding and transporting platelet agonists and antagonists.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateJul 28, 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.

Revealing HIV drug-resistance mechanisms through protein structures

Researchers at Salk Institute discovered molecular mechanisms of HIV drug-resistance to Dolutegravir, a breakthrough that could lead to the development of new HIV therapeutics. The study revealed how changes in integrase protein structure can lead to resistance and how another compound, 4d, may overcome this resistance.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 21, 2023

Crafting molecular puzzles: A strategic approach to developing robust porous molecular crystals

Researchers developed a stable, porous molecular crystal using triptycene as a building block, leveraging noncovalent interactions to create a flexible material with high solubility and self-healing capabilities. The synthesized PMC exhibits excellent thermal and chemical resistance, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023