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Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Atropisomeric N-aryl quinazoline-4-thiones with isotopic differences at the ortho position

Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology synthesized atropisomeric N-aryl quinazoline-4-thiones, showing unprecedented isotopic atropisomerism due to rotational restriction around an N-Ar bond. The findings support the formation of diastereomers and have potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 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.

Growing droplets in the matrix

The study models biomolecular condensates using oil droplets and polymer mesh, revealing temperature modulation's impact on droplet growth and size distribution. The results provide insights into the formation of microscopic patterns in biological systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021

Molecular burdocks: peptides guide self-assembly on the micrometre scale

Scientists use specific self-assembling peptides to organize silica nanoparticles into larger structures, demonstrating a new approach to self-assembly. The researchers' method enables the creation of novel materials with various applications, including drug delivery systems and nanocatalysts.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 29, 2021

Study reveals how ribosomes are assembled in human cells

Researchers capture detailed images of ribosome assembly using a novel gene-editing platform, providing insights into the role of 70 assembly factors and their impact on rare human diseases. The study reveals three stages of the small subunit formation process.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateSep 15, 2021

Seeing the inner workings of centrioles in early land plants

Researchers study mosses and find unique centriole assembly process, with a 'unique symmetry break' that allows for regulation. This discovery provides insights into centriole development across the tree of life and has implications for our understanding of evolution.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 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.

A simple method opens access to new fluorine-containing heterocycles

Researchers at Ural Federal University developed a simple method to produce fluorine-containing heterocycles, which are promising building blocks for medicinal chemistry and agrochemistry. The new compounds were found to be highly chemically active and selectively entered into various reactions.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalMolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

Harnessing sunlight to fuel the future through covalent organic frameworks

Researchers highlight the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in solar-to-fuel production, converting sunlight into hydrogen and other fuels. COF-based photocatalysts have shown promising properties, including improved catalysis and electron delocalization, making them a viable solution for future energy needs.

SourceShoolini University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021

A fast, accurate system for quickly solving stubborn RNA structures from pond scum, the SARS-CoV-2 virus and more

A new system developed at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory determines the 3D structures of RNA-only molecules with high resolution, applying it to a ribozyme from pond scum and a piece of viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2. The study reveals tiny pockets in the viral RNA that could be targeted for COVID-19 treatments.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 11, 2021
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.

Novel molecular imaging technique casts complex coordination molecules in a new light!

A team of researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel imaging method using metal-atom tracers in HAADF-STEM to determine the conformational structures of complex polynuclear coordination compounds. The technique achieves accurate visualization of highly branched molecules, filling a gap in structural analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Novel Alzheimer’s disease amyloid β polymorph now revealed!

Researchers have successfully characterized a new form of toxic Aβ42 fibrils in Alzheimer's disease using sensitivity-enhanced solid-state NMR spectroscopy. The study paves the way for novel therapeutic strategies targeting these aggregates that drive AD progression.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

‘Bacterial arch-enemy’ paves the way for new gene editing

Researchers have mapped the structure of CRISPR-Cas12j3 from bacteriophages, a discovery that reveals how it works and solves packaging problems for genome editing. The new system has vast potential for precise genome editing with improved efficiencies and alternative targeting mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Study reveals how smell receptors work

Olfactory receptors respond to a variety of odors by binding to large numbers of different molecules, rather than specific chemical features. The team discovered that the amino acids lining the pocket don't form strong chemical bonds with odorants, but instead recognize their general chemical nature.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021
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.

Scientists discover ‘bulkheads’ between liver cells

Researchers at Skoltech have discovered structures called apical bulkheads in liver cells that are responsible for the narrow shape of bile canaliculi. The discovery reveals a key role for the Rab35 protein in regulating hepatocyte lumina formation and suggests potential avenues for medical applications in fatty liver disease and fibrosis

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021

Scientists observe gas re-accretion in dying galaxies for the first time

Researchers using ALMA data have observed gas re-accreting onto galaxies affected by ram pressure stripping, potentially slowing down their demise. This process creates unique structures resistant to ram pressure's effects, with mass and a sticky nature that holds onto material more tightly.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 29, 2021

Dancing with the light: A new way to make crystals bend by shining light

Researchers at Waseda University have developed a novel mechanism for inducing high-speed bending in thick crystals using the photothermal effect, enabling rapid actuation and simulation. This breakthrough has significant implications for flexible robotics, actuators, and soft robotics.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 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.

New method for molecular functionalization of surfaces

Researchers have developed a new approach to create stable and ordered single molecule layers on silicon surfaces through self-assembly. They use N-heterocyclic carbenes, which can form strong covalent bonds with silicon while maintaining mobility to arrange into regular molecular structures.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 21, 2021

New insights into switchable MOF structures

Researchers studied DUT-8, a switchable MOF structure that changes shape in response to guest molecules. The findings improve understanding of switching processes and gas exchange reactions in MOFs, paving the way for targeted development of functional materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers first synthesize conjoined bismacrocycle with all phenylene units

Scientists have successfully synthesized the first conjoined bismacrocycle with all phenylene units, a complex material that has potential in photoelectric and supramolecular applications. The molecule's unique structure allows it to form a peanut-shaped host-guest complex with fullerene derivatives.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 24, 2021

Understanding interfaces of hybrid materials with machine learning

Researchers from TU Graz and FSU Jena discovered three opposing driving forces controlling the self-assembly of functionalized molecules at interfaces. A design principle using machine learning was established to predict structures and properties. This breakthrough enables the easy assembly of desired interfacial properties on demand.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 19, 2021

Designing better antibody drugs with artificial intelligence

A team of scientists developed a machine learning method that optimizes antibody properties, identifying potential candidates for therapeutic use. The new approach increased the candidate pool from thousands to millions, leading to improved drug efficacy and stability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 15, 2021

Insilico to present the latest advances in chemistry AI at ACS Spring 2021

Insilico Medicine will present its latest results in modern and next-generation AI for generative chemistry at ACS Spring 2021. The company's Chemistry42 platform facilitates the discovery of novel small molecule leads in several therapeutic areas, integrating AI techniques with computational and medicinal chemistry methods.

SourceInSilico Medicine·DateApr 6, 2021
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.

The eukaryotic cell nucleus resembles the layout of a superstore

The eukaryotic cell nucleus has an organized layout, similar to a superstore, with DNA-packed into compact structures and molecules moving efficiently through channels. The chromatin fibers work like shelves, holding genetic information, while proteins move randomly within the channels according to Brownian motion rules.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 19, 2021

Death enables complexity in chemical evolution

Researchers at the University of Groningen found that introducing a molecule that attacks self-replicating fibres allows for the emergence of more complex structures. This discovery solves Spiegelman's monster, which previously hindered the origin of complexity in life.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 17, 2021

Determining the structure of a molecule with laser-induced electron diffraction

Scientists successfully applied novel approach to imaging gas-phased molecule Carbonyl Sulfide, revealing a significantly bent and asymmetrically stretched configuration of the ionized OCS+ structure. The ZCP-LIED technique retrieves accurate and precise information about atomic structure without exact knowledge over the laser field.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021

Scientists develop elements for the future electronics

Researchers at Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University are developing thin films made from biological macromolecules such as proteins and amino acids. These unique materials exhibit self-organization ability and can be assembled into certain structures, potentially solving energy efficiency limitations in modern electro...

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalSymmetry·DateMar 2, 2021
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.

New technique reveals switches in RNA

Scientists have developed a method to visualize and quantify alternative structures of RNA molecules, identifying a conserved structural switch in the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This technique has implications for understanding viral replication and potential targets for antiviral therapy.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 22, 2021

How metal atoms can arrange themselves on an insulator

Researchers at Bielefeld University have successfully arranged individual metal atoms on an insulator surface at room temperature. The ordered structure is created because the molybdenum acetate molecules align precisely with the charge distribution on the calcite surface, firmly anchoring them in place.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Coiling them up: Synthesizing organic molecules with a long helical structure

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology produced and characterized novel organic molecules with a long helical structure, revealing special interactions between coils that can exhibit interesting optical and chemical properties. The longer compounds also displayed face-to-face stabilizing interactions between different helical lay...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateJan 29, 2021

ModMol the new app to observe molecules in 3D

ModMol is an augmented reality app that allows users to visualize and edit molecules in 3D. The app currently supports 115 molecules, including organic and inorganic systems, biomolecules, polymers, and proteins. It enables users to customize molecules using the period table and standard fragments, and save edited structures for export.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·DateDec 15, 2020

Boosted signal

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed a new approach to boost NMR signal detection in previously 'invisible' regions. By using dynamic nuclear polarization with transition metal vanadium, they have created hyperfine DNP spectroscopy, which offers a broader frequency range and can analyze local chemistry around transition metals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalChem·DateNov 16, 2020

New algorithm sharpens focus of world's most powerful microscopes

A new computer algorithm improves the quality of 3D molecular structure maps generated with cryo-electron microscopy, enabling researchers to determine atomic-level structural models. The algorithm enhances map resolution and visibility, particularly for complex biological molecules.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 8, 2020
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.

Start here to make a protein

The structure of the mRNA initiation complex provides new insights into cancer and disease processes. The discovery proposes a model for how mRNA is pulled through the ribosome for scanning, revealing that start codons need to be sufficiently far from the front end of the mRNA.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateSep 3, 2020

Cyclosporin study may lead to novel ways of approaching mitochondrial dysfunction

Research investigates cyclosporin variants for their potential in regulating mitochondrial activity, shedding light on the structure-activity relationship. The study's findings suggest that certain cycloprotein molecules may be useful in treating diseases related to mitochondrial dysfunction.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJun 18, 2020

The self-synthesizing ribosome

Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully self-synthesized and assembled a ribosome subunit on a surface chip. The discovery opens up new possibilities for designing and testing complex molecular structures, including potential applications in vaccine development and drug production.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 21, 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.

New artificial intelligence model to bridge biology and chemistry

Researchers at Insilico Medicine developed a new AI model that combines generative biology and chemistry to generate novel molecular structures for a desired transcriptional response. The Bidirectional Adversarial Autoencoder can be used for virtual screening, discovering new molecular structures and predicting transcriptional responses.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateMay 19, 2020
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.

Machine learning cracks quantum chemistry conundrum

A new machine learning tool can calculate the energy required to assemble or pull apart a molecule with higher accuracy than conventional methods. The team's innovations made calculating a basic molecule's electronic structure simpler and faster.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2020

Dual personalities visualized for shape-shifting molecule

Australian and US researchers used advanced computational methods to detect different structures of RNA, which until now could not be distinguished. The team discovered that changes in RNA structure influenced how the virus behaved, including which proteins it produced.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 6, 2020

Automated 'pipeline' improves access to advanced microscopy data

A new data-processing approach developed by researchers at the University of Michigan Life Sciences Institute offers a simpler path to analyzing cryo-electron microscopy data. The pipeline uses machine learning and connects various tools to streamline the process, making it more accessible to researchers from diverse backgrounds.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalStructure·DateApr 14, 2020

New supramolecular copolymers driven by self-sorting of molecules

Researchers at Chiba University created a new type of helicoidal supramolecular polymer that changes its chemical structure in response to temperature. The polymer was formed by mixing two different monomers and exhibits a unique thermal response, collapsing rapidly at 45-50°C.

SourceChiba University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Modified nucleotides and RNA world

Researchers propose that modified nucleobases could have facilitated the emergence of rudimentary self-replicating systems by stabilizing short RNA molecule structures and providing catalytic activity. This could have increased the breadth of available functions for short RNAs.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2020

Coronavirus SARS-CoV2: BESSY II data accelerate drug development

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have decoded the 3D architecture of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, providing concrete starting points for developing inhibitors. The analysis was conducted using high-intensity X-ray light from BESSY II.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience·DateMar 20, 2020

Protecting DNA origami for anti-cancer drug delivery

Researchers develop peptoid-coated DNA origami that maintains structural integrity and functionality in different physiological environments, enabling potential use in delivering anti-cancer drugs and proteins. The method involves designing peptoids to stabilize DNA origami, with the brush-type architecture achieving optimal protection.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Plastic from wood

Researchers have used X-ray analysis to study lignin, a byproduct of paper production, and its potential as a sustainable raw material for manufacturing bioplastics. The study reveals that different lignin fractions can be engineered to have varying properties, such as hardness or softness, making them suitable for specific applications.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateMar 3, 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.

Ancient Greek tholos-like architecture composed of archaeal proteins

Researchers have identified a unique archaeal protein complex with a five-column tholos-like architecture, featuring a spacious center that can accommodate biomolecules. This discovery provides insight into the molecular evolution between archaeal and eukaryotic proteins.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 3, 2020

Predicting the degradation behavior of advanced medical devices

The study suggests a fast and reliable method to determine the degradation behavior of complex biomacromolecules using Langmuir technique. The research paves the way for designing innovative, multifunctional polymers for regenerative medicine with improved performance in medical implants.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJan 23, 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.

A new approach to reveal the multiple structures of RNA

Researchers at SISSA developed a new method to characterize RNA's different configurations, combining experimental data and simulations to study dynamic molecular systems. The approach identifies dominant and minority structures, shedding light on the molecule's role in protein synthesis regulation.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 22, 2020