Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Looking sharp! Shark skin is unique and may have medical use, too

Researchers studied shark and skate skin mucus to understand its unique biochemistry. They found a thin, neutral mucus layer with properties similar to human mucus, suggesting potential biomedical applications for wound care and treatment.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023

Scientists develop novel nanoparticles that could serve as contrast agents

Researchers created single-chain nanoparticles with thermoresponsive properties, which can be used to produce high-resolution internal images of the human body. These particles create a rich optical contrast that can be used to examine tumors more closely.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 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.

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

One-atom-thick ribbons could improve batteries, solar cells and sensors

The researchers created nanoribbons made of phosphorus and tiny amounts of arsenic, which were able to conduct electricity at high temperatures. The arsenic-phosphorus ribbons have also turned out to be magnetic, opening up possibilities for quantum computers.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2023

Evaluating the shear viscosity of different water models

Associate Professor Tadashi Ando from Tokyo University of Science conducted a study to test the performance of OPC and OPC3 water models, evaluating their shear viscosities and comparing values to experimental calculations. The calculated viscosities for both models were very close, with notable accuracy at temperatures above 310 K.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2023
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.

Will it slip or will it grip: scientists ask, “what is snail mucus?”

A new study breaks down the complex structure of snail mucus, revealing three unique types of secretions with different functions. The researchers identified novel proteins, some of which have never been seen before, and found that subtle differences in composition can significantly impact properties.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023

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
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.

An innovative addition to the chemist’s ‘toolbox’

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new type of nanoclay material that can be customized to perform specific tasks. This breakthrough could lead to advances in fields such as medical science, environmental science, and more.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·DateJul 24, 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.

Discovery of crucial clue to accelerate development of carbon-neutral porous materials

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) have identified seven types of zirconium metal clusters found in MOFs and fourteen potential new metal building blocks. This discovery provides a crucial clue to accelerate the development of carbon-neutral porous materials.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalTrends in Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2023

New study counts the environmental cost of managing Japanese knotweed

A Swansea University research study has evaluated the long-term environmental impacts of different Japanese knotweed management methods. The study found that glyphosate-based foliar spray control is the most sustainable approach, using the least materials and having the lowest economic costs.

SourceSwansea University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2023

Nature's nutcracker can crush pesticide residue

Researchers at Aarhus University have found an enzyme, C-P lyase, in E. coli bacteria that can degrade highly stable chemicals, including pesticides like RoundUp. The enzyme uses energy from ATP to open and close a 'nutcracker' mechanism that traps and breaks down troublesome chemicals.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seeing clearly into a new realm – researchers prototype a new generation of quantum microscopy

A team of researchers has developed a prototype of a quantum microscope that can see electric currents, detect fluctuating magnetic fields, and even see single molecules on a surface. The microscope uses atomic impurities and van der Waals materials to achieve high resolution sensitivity and simultaneous imaging of magnetic fields and ...

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2022

Singapore scientists crack the genome of Singapore's national flower

The genome of Singapore's National Flower, Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, has been decoded by a collaboration between A*STAR and SingHealth Duke-NUS Institute of Biodiversity Medicine. The study reveals the presence of natural products with antioxidant properties, flavonols, and anthocyanins, which could be used for healthcare purposes.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 1, 2022

Magnesium ions slow down water dynamics on short length scales

Researchers from the Max Born Institute found that magnesium ions reduce ultrafast fluctuations in water's hydration shell, slowing solvation dynamics. The study reveals a short-range effect of individual ion pairs on dilute aqueous systems.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalACS Physical Chemistry Au·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Chemists design chemical probe for detecting minute temperature shifts in the body

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a cobalt-based molecule that can detect extremely subtle temperature shifts inside the body, opening up new possibilities for medical imaging and therapy. The noninvasive probe uses radiofrequency waves to read out temperature signals from the body.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
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.

An ultrafast X-ray glance into photoacid electronic structure

Researchers have provided direct insight into the electronic structure of a proton donating group in an amine aromatic photoacid using ultrafast X-ray spectroscopy. The study reveals major electronic structure changes occur on the base side of the Förster cycle, resolving the long-standing open question.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022

‘Self-driving’ lab speeds up research, synthesis of energy materials

Researchers at NC State University have developed a 'self-driving lab' that uses artificial intelligence and fluidic systems to advance our understanding of metal halide perovskite nanocrystals. The technology can autonomously dope MHP nanocrystals, adding manganese atoms on demand, allowing for faster control over properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

Discovered: An easier way to create "flexible diamonds"

A team of scientists led by Samuel Dunning has developed an original technique to predict and guide the ordered creation of strong, yet flexible, diamond nanothreads. The innovation allows for easier synthesis of the material, which has potential applications in space elevators, ultra-strong fabrics, and other fields.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2022
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.

Live wire: new research on nanoelectronics

A study by Arizona State University shows that certain proteins can act as efficient electrical conductors, outperforming DNA-based nanowires in conductance. The protein nanowires display better performance over long distances, enabling potential applications for medical sensing and diagnostics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Engineers develop new software tool to aid material modeling research

Researchers developed propSym to calculate fundamental constants of solids, reducing redundant components and improving material modeling. The open-source software is adaptable to various physical properties, aiming to lower the entry barrier for analytical modeling.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Applied Crystallography·DateJan 5, 2022
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.

Why the world needs a better LED light bulb

Researchers have developed a new light-emitting material that doubles the intensity of existing LEDs while also being more energy-efficient. The material, cerium-doped zinc oxide, has the potential to be used in commercial LED lighting applications and could make lighting more affordable for households and businesses worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Luminescence·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021

Pyrrole chemistry: Good things come in threes

Researchers have successfully formed rings made of three pyrroles for the first time, which could be used to produce compounds with unique properties. The discovery explains why tripyrrolic macrocycles were not observed before due to strain issues.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Polymer enables tougher recyclable thermoplastics

Cornell researchers created a chemically recyclable thermoplastic by synthesizing long polymer chains using a special catalyst. The resulting material, poly(1,3-dioxolane) or PDXL, has high tensile strength and can be easily depolymerized back to its monomer state, making it suitable for large-scale applications like packaging products.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 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.

NSF grant kicks off Center for Adapting Flaws into Features

The Center for Adapting Flaws into Features will explore chemical defects to optimize material properties, with a focus on creating better catalysts and electronics. The team aims to develop new approaches towards transformative technologies by leveraging advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and data science.

SourceRice University·DateAug 3, 2021

Curtin study finds WA's natural 'museums of biodiversity' at risk

A Curtin University study finds that up to three-quarters of Western Australia's iconic Banded Iron Formations (BIF) biodiversity could be lost forever after mining. The research highlights the challenges of rehabilitating these unique ecosystems, which are home to nearly every plant species in the region.

SourceCurtin University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJun 1, 2021

The properties of non-racemic dihydrofurans have been studied at Samara Polytech

Researchers at Samara Polytech developed a method to obtain non-racemic 4,5-dihydrofurans using Michael addition, which could lead to the creation of biologically active compounds. The study also explores the potential use of these compounds as treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalTetrahedron·DateMay 28, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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

Samara Polytech chemists synthesized new compounds

Researchers at Samara Polytech synthesize new adamantane derivatives, enabling the creation of functional materials. The approach uses polyfunctional structures and bridged carboxylic acids to increase synthetic availability.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalRussian Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateOct 29, 2020

Study: PFAS act similar to known cancer-causing chemicals

A study by the Environmental Working Group found that all 26 reviewed PFAS chemicals exhibit at least one carcinogenic characteristic. Exposure to these chemicals increases the risk of cancer and other serious health concerns, including reproductive harms and reduced vaccine effectiveness.

SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 3, 2020

Scientists find biology's optimal 'molecular alphabet' may be preordained

A team of researchers found that the amino acids, a fundamental set of life's building blocks, may have special properties that helped bootstrap themselves into their modern form. The study suggests that each time a modern amino acid was discovered and embedded in biology's toolkit during evolution, it provided an adaptive value unusua...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2019
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.

Graphene-based wearables to prevent mosquito bites

Researchers developed graphene-based films that protect skin from mosquitoes by impeding their ability to detect molecular attractants. These wearable patches offer a potential solution for preventing insect bites without conferring mechanical puncture resistance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2019

'Edited' plant-based toxin possesses anti-tumor characteristics

Researchers at Shinshu University discovered that editing fusicoccins, a toxic organic compound, can transform them into chemicals with anti-tumor properties. The study suggests that the compound works as a stabilizer for protein-protein interactions, which could lead to the development of new clinically relevant anti-cancer agents.

SourceShinshu University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateNov 15, 2018

A new 'periodic table' for nanomaterials

Researchers created a machine learning technique to categorize different molecules based on the nano-sized shapes they form. The approach could help materials scientists identify suitable precursor molecules for synthesizing target nanomaterials.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

'Naturally' glowing cotton yields dazzling new threads

Researchers have developed a method to infuse cotton fibers with fluorescent and magnetic properties, eliminating the need for chemical treatments. This breakthrough could enable the creation of sustainable fabrics with desirable properties.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2017

Research shows how DNA molecules cross nanopores

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that DNA molecules move faster as they enter a nanopore and slower when exiting, due to buckling under compressive forces. This finding could inform the design of biosensors and have real-world applications in polymer properties measurement.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017
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.

Researchers identify characteristic chemical signature for chronic fatigue syndrome

A study published in PNAS identifies a unique chemical signature for chronic fatigue syndrome, revealing an unexpected connection to hypometabolic syndromes like dauer. The findings show that CFS has a characteristic metabolic response, with 80% of diagnostic metabolites decreased, and provide a basis for personalized therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2016

Plastic manufacturing chemical BPS harms egg cells, study suggests

A new study by UCLA researchers found that Bisphenol S (BPS) damages a woman's eggs at lower doses than BPA. The study exposed roundworms to various concentrations of BPA and/or BPS, revealing decreased fertility in those exposed to either chemical.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 9, 2016
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.

Why fruit cracking differs among sweet cherry varieties

Research finds that sweet cherry varieties differ in their susceptibility to skin cracking due to variations in cell wall properties. The study suggests that cell wall physical properties account for the differences in cracking susceptibility among cultivars.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMay 23, 2016

Catching and releasing tiny molecules

A Harvard scientist has developed a new microfluidic design that can detect and extract biomolecules from fluid mixtures more efficiently than current techniques. The approach uses microscopic fins embedded in a hydrogel that responds to different stimuli, allowing for the selective separation of target biomolecules.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 23, 2015

Olive oil more stable and healthful than seed oils for frying food

A recent study by Mohamed Bouaziz and colleagues found that olive oil maintains its quality and nutrition better than seed oils when deep-fried or pan-fried. The researchers tested four different refined oils and found that olive oil was the most stable, while sunflower oil degraded the fastest.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 22, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Peptoid nanosheets at the oil-water interface

Scientists create two-dimensional biomimetic materials with customizable properties, forming at an oil-water interface. The new development enables designing peptoid nanosheets of increasing structural complexity for various applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2014

Breakthrough method for making Janus or patchy capsules

Researchers have developed a new method for creating Janus and patchy capsules using electro-coalescence and electro-hydrodynamic flow. These capsules can be used to transport substances and release them in specific environments, making them useful for biomedical applications.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 2014