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Smart in-memory light sensors perform image recognition

Researchers at KAUST developed smart digital image sensors that can recognize images with high accuracy, using a charge-trapping 'in-memory' sensor sensitive to visible light. The devices have an extremely long-lived retention time of up to 10 years and can perform optical sensing, storage, and computation.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 6, 2023

Newcomers may change ecosystem functions – or not

Research by North Carolina State University found that new species can alter ecosystem processes despite similarities to resident species, but changes occur when they are more dissimilar. This study has implications for predicting the consequences of climate change-induced species introductions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2023

Lightning strike creates phosphorus material for the first time on Earth

A team of scientists, led by University of South Florida professor Matthew Pasek, discovered a new phosphorus material in a fulgurite created by a lightning strike. The material is transitional between space minerals and those found on Earth, and its formation could have implications for our understanding of high-energy events.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 11, 2023
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.

High CO2 concentration in the atmosphere impoverishes rice farmland

Elevated atmospheric CO2 reduces soil phosphorus availability in rice crops by more than 20%, compromising plant growth and food security. International research team finds 55% of large rice fields in China and India at risk of yield reduction due to phosphorus deficiency.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 10, 2023

How will phosphorus cycle influence carbon uptake in china?

Researchers found that phosphorus limitation decreases global and Chinese carbon sink strength by 7-16% by 2030s. The positive feedback between net primary productivity and soil decomposition amplifies this impact in China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 10, 2023

Microbes could be used by farmers as natural fertilizer for poor soil

Researchers identified hundreds of microorganisms associated with plant roots and soil, showing potential for developing biological substitutes for phosphorus-based fertilizers. The discovery highlights the importance of microbial communities in supplying essential nutrients like nitrogen.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJan 23, 2023

How habanero peppers respond to stress

Researchers found that metabolite changes were most evident in ripe fruit, with nitrogen deficiency increasing some compounds and phosphorus deficiency decreasing diversity. Salinity threshold above which metabolites change was identified, which could impact harvested pepper resistance to pathogens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Agricultural Science & Technology·DateJan 19, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vitamin D deficiency increases risk of losing muscle strength by 78%

Researchers found that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of dynapenia, an age-associated loss of muscle strength, by 70-78%. Vitamin D supplementation was shown to reduce this risk. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 individuals aged 50 and over, highlighting the importance of vitamin D for maintaining muscle strength.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateDec 13, 2022

Warming climate spurs harmful oxygen loss in lakes

Rondaxe Lake's experience is just one of thousands worldwide as lakes lose oxygen due to warming, leading to conditions like hypoxia and anoxia. This phenomenon, exacerbated by seasonal stratification, threatens aquatic life and ecosystems.

SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 6, 2022
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.

Study finds that big rains bring big algae blooms … eventually

A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that while phosphorus is a key ingredient for algae blooms, other factors like calm winds, warm surface waters, and low zooplankton populations can delay or prevent blooms. Drastically reducing phosphorus use on land may be the only option to head off future blooms.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

First-of-its-kind database tracks agricultural phosphorus use world-wide

A new database quantifying cropland phosphorus budgets around the world helps identify nutrient management gaps in different regions. The study provides valuable insights into phosphorus management challenges and opportunities in various countries, shedding light on how to improve global phosphorus use efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

As winters warm, nutrient pollution threatens 40% of US

As winters warm, nutrient pollution is putting water quality at risk in over 40 US states. The first-of-its-kind national study finds that previously frozen winter nutrient pollution is affecting 53% of the contiguous US and putting 50% of nitrogen and phosphorus pools at risk.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 2022

Mystery of this champion metallic glass uncovered

A team of researchers led by Prof. Shinya Hosokawa analyzed the atomic configurations of Pd42.5Ni7.5Cu30P20, a champion bulk metallic glass, and found its characteristic configurations that lead to its excellent glass-forming ability.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2022
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.

SwRI scientist helps identify new evidence for habitability in Enceladus’s ocean

Scientists have discovered new evidence of phosphorus availability in Enceladus's ocean, making it a prime target in the search for extraterrestrial life. The discovery suggests that Enceladus's subsurface ocean is likely habitable due to its high levels of dissolved phosphorus.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 19, 2022

New findings on dietary phosphorus intake

A two-part study by the International Food Additives Council found that Americans' daily natural phosphorus intake increased by 12% between 1988-1994 and 2015-2016. High phosphorus intake was associated with increased bone mineral content, reduced high blood pressure risk, and lower HDL cholesterol levels.

SourceKellen Company·JournalNutrients·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2022
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.

Brushing thin films onto electrodes preserves batteries

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to create a thin film coating on lithium anodes using powder brushing, which improves battery life and capacity. The coated anodes retained 70% more capacity after 340 charge-discharge cycles than off-the-shelf batteries.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2022

Amazon's growth limited by lack of phosphorus

New research shows that the Amazon rainforest's growth rate is limited by a lack of phosphorus in the soil, which could reduce its ability to store carbon and increase vulnerability to climate change. Phosphorus availability played a critical role in increasing productivity in a recent experiment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022

Tomatoes, but not farm workers, gardeners, safe from soil lead

A University of Illinois study found tomatoes in Chicago backyard gardens have low levels of lead, making them relatively safe for consumption. However, improper soil handling and lack of washing can still pose health risks. Researchers recommend minimizing dust with heavy mulch and careful fruit washing to safely grow tomatoes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJul 21, 2022

Montana Bio Station researchers find nutrient imbalance in flathead lake

A team of researchers found a high ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus in Flathead Lake, limiting phytoplankton growth and affecting zooplankton populations. This imbalance sets the stage for potential methane production and has significant ecological consequences.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2022
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.

Three ORNL scientists to receive DOE Early Career Research awards

The Department of Energy has awarded Early Career Research Program funding to three Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists. The awardees will receive $500,000 annually for five years to support their research in fusion energy, advanced scientific computing, and biogeochemical controls on phosphorus cycling.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 9, 2022

“Spring-loaded” system pops phosphorus into molecular rings

MIT researchers devise a chemical reaction that allows them to synthesize phosphorus-containing rings using a novel spring-loaded molecule. This method enables the creation of useful compounds with potential applications in catalysts and pharmaceuticals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 21, 2022

University of Sheffield study shows potential to reduce reliance on non-renewable fertilisers in agriculture

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have identified a unique bacterial phosphatase, PafA, that can efficiently release phosphate from its organic forms. This discovery has potential to help reduce the consumption of phosphate chemical fertilisers and promote sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2022

New study suggests wildlife may be answer to phosphorus crisis

Researchers propose that wildlife can return phosphorus to the land by restoring interconnected animal communities, revitalizing ancient pathways of natural fertilization. This approach aims to generate sources of fertilizer for farmers and increase ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateApr 11, 2022
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.

Unstable molecule clicks with synthetic strategy

Scientists at UC San Diego develop a method to bind unstable diphosphorus to a single metal ion, creating a relatively stable and selectively reactive form. This breakthrough could enable the development of selective phosphorus-atom transfer reactions and open up new areas of discovery in synthetic chemistry.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022

"Seafloor fertilizer factory" helped breathe life into Earth

Scientists have discovered that the onset of microbial fertilizer factories on the Earth's seafloor roughly 2.6 billion years ago was a crucial step in the rise of oxygen levels during the Great Oxidation Event. This recycling process fueled photosynthetic bacteria, which increased oxygen production and paved the way for complex life t...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022

Root symbiosis is regulated through nutrient status of plants

Researchers discovered a protein called PHR regulates arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) symbiosis based on phosphate availability. AM promotes phosphate uptake and other nutrient absorption, enhancing plant resistance to stressors.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Dog feces and urine could be harming nature reserves, according to new study

Researchers found that dog faeces and urine add substantial nutrients to nature reserves, potentially detrimental to biodiversity. Studies suggest reducing fertilisation effects by encouraging owners to remove faeces and enforcing leash use could mitigate this impact.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

New economic model finds wetlands provide billions in filtration value

Southern Ontario's wetlands filter out phosphorus and sediments from water, providing $4.2 billion worth of sediment filtration services each year. This is the first economic valuation study to separate the values of major wetland types, with marshes being the most valuable for sediment filtration.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalHydrological Processes·DateJan 25, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Volcanic fertilization of the oceans drove severe mass extinction, say scientists

Researchers found that intense volcanic activity led to a surge in phosphorus levels, driving ocean oxygen levels down and triggering a severe mass extinction. The study suggests that natural weathering of volcanic material may have been responsible for the sudden cooling events.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 2021

Color-changing indicator predicts algal blooms

Researchers developed a color-changing indicator that detects rising levels of alkaline phosphatase, forecasting phytoplankton growth and impending algal blooms. The portable system reliably detected enzyme activity using smartphone scanning apps, potentially enabling real-time field monitoring and prediction.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateNov 3, 2021
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.

Cotton: Fireproof and comfortable

Researchers at EMPA created a flame retardant cotton textile that retains the natural properties of cotton fibers while providing fireproof and antimicrobial functionalities. The fabric does not contain carcinogenic formaldehyde and can absorb water, maintaining a favorable microclimate on the skin.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Study reveals drastic decline of subtropical aquatic insects

A study published in Biology Letters reveals a drastic fall in the number of aquatic insects in the Paraná River basin due to dam construction. The research, conducted over 20 years, found that dams alter the nutrient balance and provide a clearer water environment, making insects more vulnerable to predation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 3, 2021

Study suggests that silicon could be a photonics game-changer

Researchers discovered silicon's strongest nonlinearity, allowing for extremely weak beams to be used in photonic applications. This breakthrough could lead to the production of silicon processors with built-in light beam control capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 27, 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.

What sparked life on Earth? Perhaps bolts from the blue

A new study suggests that lightning strikes provided sparks of life for early Earth, unlocking phosphorus to create biomolecules. The researchers estimated that 0.1 to 1 quintillion lightning strikes occurred over a billion years, providing usable phosphorus.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 2021

Uncovering exotic molecules of potential astrochemical interest

Researchers detect HCCP and CH2=C=PH, unusual phosphorus-containing molecules in interstellar clouds. The discovery paves the way for studying their properties and potential extraterrestrial detections, advancing our knowledge of astrochemistry.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 11, 2021

Invasive mussels now control a key nutrient in the American Great Lakes

Researchers found that quagga mussels regulate phosphorus supply to the ecosystem, transforming nutrient cycling and affecting productivity. The study's findings highlight dramatic ecological changes caused by a single invasive species and call for a new paradigm in managing aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 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.

Invasive species and phosphorus in the Great Lakes

A single invasive species, quagga mussel, regulates phosphorus cycling in four Great Lakes by ingesting particulate phosphorus and redistributing it through physiological processes. This shift alters the ecosystem's sensitivity to external nutrient load management.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

Scientists discover compounds that could have helped to start life on Earth

Researchers from St. Petersburg University and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev discovered cyclophosphates, chemically active phosphorus-containing compounds found in rocks along the Dead Sea. These compounds are thought to have played a key role in prebiotic phosphorylation reactions that led to the emergence of primordial life.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalGeology·DateDec 14, 2020

New transistor design disguises key computer chip hardware from hackers

Purdue University engineers have demonstrated a way to disguise which transistor is which by building them out of a sheet-like material called black phosphorus. This built-in security measure would prevent hackers from getting enough information about the circuit to reverse engineer it.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Electronics·DateDec 7, 2020
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.

Researchers discovered solid phosphorus from a comet

The study led from the University of Turku discovered phosphorus and fluorine in solid dust particles collected from comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. This finding suggests that comets may have delivered life-necessary elements to the young Earth.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 26, 2020

Microbes help unlock phosphorus for plant growth

Research team discovers endophytes can break apart phosphorus complexes, making it accessible to plants. This natural approach reduces environmental harm from chemical fertilizers and promotes more sustainable food production.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateNov 24, 2020

Analyzing ancient Egyptian inks

Researchers detected iron-based compounds as ocher in ancient red ink, while lead, phosphorus, and sulfur were found in micrometric rings surrounding ocher particles in red ink. Lead compounds also appeared in black inks, likely used as drying agents rather than pigments.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

Phosphorus deficit may disrupt regional food supply chains

A new study reveals that regions with high population growth rates are also experiencing a phosphorus deficit, posing serious challenges to food production. The study estimates that the phosphorus supply chain will lead to alarming rates of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

SourceStockholm University·JournalGlobal Food Security·DateOct 7, 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.

Plant-available nutrients and animal body size

The study found that herbivore feces contain varying nutrient profiles depending on their body size. Larger-bodied herbivores leave dung with lower phosphorus and higher nitrogen-to-phosphorus ratios.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020