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Life Sciences

Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.

447,757 articles | 2542 topics

Health and Medicine

Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.

431,843 articles | 751 topics

Social Sciences

Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.

260,756 articles | 745 topics

Physical Sciences

Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.

257,913 articles | 1552 topics

Applied Sciences and Engineering

Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.

225,386 articles | 998 topics

Scientific Community

Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.

193,043 articles | 157 topics

Space Sciences

Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.

29,662 articles | 175 topics

Research Methods

Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.

21,889 articles | 139 topics

Mathematics

Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.

3,023 articles | 113 topics

Models present new view of nanoscale friction

A team of engineers from University of Wisconsin-Madison has created a new view of nanoscale friction by demonstrating that friction at the atomic level behaves similarly to friction generated between large objects. The researchers found that friction is proportional to the number of atoms that interact between two nanoscale surfaces.

Nanocoatings boost industrial energy efficiency

Researchers at Ames Laboratory are developing nanocoatings to reduce friction and extend tool life, leading to a 31 trillion BTU annual energy savings by 2030. The coatings have shown exceptional hardness and can be applied to various industrial applications, including pumps and cutting tools.

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.

Geologists study China earthquake for glimpse into future

Researchers used a model to study stress changes on faults after the May 12 China earthquake and found heightened rupture likelihood for some faults. The study suggests that potential for failure exists on some faults, but does not predict when or if an earthquake will occur.

Heavier hydrogen on the atomic scale reduces friction

A recent study reveals that coating diamond surfaces with heavier hydrogen isotopes can significantly reduce friction forces. The research, led by Argonne scientist Anirudha Sumant, used single-crystal diamond surfaces coated with layers of atomic or deuterium to investigate the effect on surface vibrations.

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.

Carnegie Mellon researcher wins prestigious career award for NSF

The researcher will receive a $400,000 grant to develop sophisticated computer models that can predict wear problems on various surfaces, including materials used in semiconductor and data storage devices. The study aims to understand how abrasive nanoparticles cause friction and surface wear, with potential applications in the product...

Lubricant's role in keeping joints limber comes into sharper focus

Researchers at Duke University have found that lubricin helps reduce friction and maintain joint cartilage integrity, suggesting its potential as a treatment for osteoarthritis. The study used precise measurement of biomechanical properties to compare lubricin-deficient joints to normal ones.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Engineers create gecko-inspired, high-friction micro-fibers

A team of researchers at UC Berkeley created synthetic micro-fibers inspired by geckos' remarkable hairs, which can hold a quarter to a glass slide inclined at an 80-degree angle. The fibers have high friction but low adhesion, making them suitable for applications such as shoe soles and car tires.

Friction-reduction recipe: Add two atoms and lots of heat

Brown University professors and USC colleagues find a molecule spinning at 270 trillion rotations per minute, annihilating friction. The phenomenon challenges old laws of physics, suggesting molecules can move energy without slowing down.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Frictionless motion observed in water

Researchers spin a molecular stick, creating a shock wave that destroys friction in the surrounding liquid, allowing it to rotate freely. The discovery challenges traditional models of liquid behavior and has significant implications for understanding chemical reactions.

New insight into joint lubrication that keeps osteoarthritis at bay

A team of researchers found that a component of joint fluid called lubricin forms a thin barrier to prevent contact between joint surfaces, reducing wear and tear. The combination of lubricin and hyaluronic acid produces an even greater protective effect than either substance alone.

'Keep cool to reduce friction,' suggests study of nanoscale water condensation

A team of researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology discovered that the formation of capillary structures is thermally activated. By studying the frictional forces acting on an atomic force microscope tip, they found that reducing temperatures and moving surfaces quickly can reduce adhesion between nanoscale surfaces.

Nanotechnology confronts the 'bad hair day,' tests new conditioner

Researchers used advanced techniques to study human hair and found that conditioners don't evenly cover the entire hair shaft, leading to frizz. A new conditioner formula has been developed with additives to improve even coverage, and similar techniques could be applied to beauty products like lipstick and nail polish.

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.

Proving Da Vinci right at the atomic level

Researchers tested a long-held friction theory using a quasicrystalline material, finding that friction along the periodic surface was significantly higher than along the aperiodic axis. The study's findings have implications for understanding the relationship between a material's structure and its frictional properties.

Of friction and 'The Da Vinci Code'

Scientists use AFM and STM to study frictional force in decagonal quasicrystals, revealing strong connection between interface structure and dissipation. The results show that friction is greater along the periodic direction, with an anisotropy of up to 8 times greater than in the aperiodic direction.

APS physics tip sheet #49

Physicists propose new class of time machines that avoid difficulties inherent in other models. Researchers also analyze lateral vibrations to control friction and crack propagation in thin films. The horizontal Brazil nut effect is studied, showing grain migration to center or edge based on size and density.

Size matters: Friction, adhesion change on atomic level

Research by Johns Hopkins physicists reveals that atomic-scale surfaces exhibit drastically different friction and adhesion forces due to their unique structures. The findings have significant implications for the development of nanotechnology, which could lead to improved device performance and functionality.

Scientists close in on 'superbrakes' for cars

Researchers create a new mathematical model that explains the relationship between friction and motion, suggesting that traditional braking methods may not be the most effective. The findings could lead to improved road safety by optimizing brake performance.

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.

Why rocks curl

Researchers developed an experiment to measure the behavior of curling stones, revealing that wet friction is involved in their curl. The study found that a thin liquid layer reverses the dominant frictional force on the stone, resulting in a clockwise-turning stone curling to the right.

Scaling friction down to the nano/micro realm

Researchers at NIST created a new technique to measure friction accurately in the nano- and micro-scale. The method helps designers produce more durable devices with moving parts by accounting for unintended scratching of surfaces.

NIST study helps auto engineers by the numbers

A NIST study identifies a potential source of error in the automotive industry's use of surface roughness data to predict friction. The researchers developed an improved analytical approach that can help automakers incorporate lighter weight materials and improve fuel efficiency.

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.

Physics tip sheet #40 - March 1, 2004

Researchers have made significant discoveries in controlling friction at the nanometer scale, developing more resilient network architectures, and precisely manipulating millions of atoms. These advancements hold promise for improving nanoengineering applications and enhancing our understanding of fundamental mechanisms.

During earthquakes, mineral gel may reduce rock friction to zero

Researchers discovered that a mineral gel formed during rock abrasion can reduce friction between rocks to near-zero levels at high shearing speeds. This finding has implications for understanding and predicting earthquake damage, as it could lead to more accurate simulations of seismic slip speeds and fault weakening processes.

adidas presents new bodysuit: the JETCONCEPT

adidas introduces the JETCONCEPT bodysuit, which uses riblets to channel water and reduce drag, resulting in up to 3% increase in swimming performance. The suit was developed using technology from commercial aircraft, focusing on form drag rather than friction drag.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cooking oils boost low sulfur diesel fuel and engine lubricant performance

Researchers at Penn State have discovered that adding as little as 10% vegetable oil to diesel fuel reduces friction and wear, achieving similar performance to high-sulfur diesel. The team's tests also showed that oxygen-treated vegetable oil mixtures can meet current emission regulations with minimal oil usage.

Nanotech control device developed

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a nanotech control device that achieves six degrees of freedom for precise positioning in nanotechnology and telesurgery. The device eliminates mechanical contact and friction, improving accuracy and resolution, while decreasing manufacturing costs and increasing reliability.

Scientists identify molecular source of friction

Physicists at Johns Hopkins University have identified the molecular origins of static friction, resolving a long-standing issue in understanding Amontons' classic laws. The 'gunk in the middle' - hydrocarbon molecules between surfaces - provides an explanation for the linear relationship between force and load.

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.

Discovery About Lubricants Could Lead To Less Machinery Wear

Scientists have discovered that randomness in lubricants is a major contributor to friction at the molecular level. This finding could lead to reduced wear and tear on machinery. By understanding how lubricants fracture and heal, researchers may develop new methods to control friction and minimize wear.