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Spinning up antibacterial silver on glass

Researchers at Yonsei University have developed a technique to coat glass with silver ions, which can prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria. The technology could be used to protect medical equipment and be particularly useful in disaster recovery and military environments.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nanotechnology·DateJun 27, 2013

Carbon nanotube harpoon catches individual brain-cell signals

Neuroscientists have developed a carbon nanotube probe that captures individual brain-cell signals, improving upon metal and glass electrodes. The new probe allows for more precise recordings of electrical signals from single neurons, enabling better understanding of the computational complexity of the brain.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013
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.

Data highways for quantum information

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have demonstrated experimentally that ultra-thin glass fibers can store quantum information long enough to be used for entangling atoms hundreds of kilometers apart. This is a fundamental building block for a global fiber-based quantum communication network.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 12, 2013

Quantum teleportation between atomic systems over long distances

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen successfully teleported quantum information between two glass containers filled with billions of caesium gas atoms. The experiments demonstrated stable results every time, paving the way for future quantum communication networks.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 6, 2013

Older adult clumsiness linked to brain changes

New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that older adults use less effective reference frames to visualize nearby objects, leading to difficulties with daily tasks like dialing phones and grasping objects. This study sheds light on the cognitive changes associated with aging and their impact on hand-eye coordination.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 4, 2013

Enhancer RNAs alter gene expression

Researchers have discovered the functional importance of enhancer-directed RNAs, also known as eRNAs, which boost or enhance nearby genes. The discovery could provide a new way to alter gene expression in a cell-specific manner, potentially treating diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2013

The formula for turning cement into metal

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory have created a semi-conductor material by turning liquid cement into liquid metal through electron trapping. This process creates metallic-glass material with positive attributes including conductivity, fluidity, and low energy loss.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New analysis yields improvements in a classic 3-D imaging technique

Research at Curtin University has enabled major improvements in the widely used century-old 3D printing technique Anaglyph printing. The team targeted crosstalk problems visible as ghost-like shadows and found potential solutions by changing cyan ink, optimizing glasses and light sources, and using improved image processing algorithms.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMay 24, 2013

Do-it-yourself invisibility with 3-D printing

Using 3D printing, researchers have created a simple and inexpensive way to produce plastic cloaks that can deflect microwave beams, making them appear invisible. The technique involves designing algorithms to create holes in the cloak, which allows it to suppress scattering from objects, effectively making them invisible.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptics Letters·DateMay 6, 2013
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Glass-blowers at a nano scale

EPFL researchers have developed a method to shrink glass capillary tubes using a scanning electron microscope, resulting in precise control over the tube's diameter. This technique has been patented and shows promise for industrial applications such as ultra-high precision printing and surgery.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 25, 2013

A new anti-frost and anti-fog coating for glass

Scientists have created a new water-repellent coating that rapidly absorbs water molecules preventing freezing and allows larger droplets to form as flattened droplets. This coating could be used in various applications such as automobile windshields and camera lenses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 27, 2013

Young children may go above and beyond when helping adults

Young children may go above and beyond when helping adults, overriding specific requests for unhelpful items in favor of something more useful. In one experiment, most 3-year-olds recognized that an adult wasn't making the best decision and decided to be helpful instead.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2013
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.

Novel materials: Smart and magnetic

Researchers studied Pr0.5 Ca0.5 Mn0.975 Al0.025 O3 and found kinetic arrest band formation, inversely correlated with temperature extremes.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJan 28, 2013

Southampton scientist develops strongest, lightest glass nanofibres in the world

Researchers at the University of Southampton's Optoelectronics Research Centre have created the strongest, lightest weight silica nanofibres, 15 times stronger than steel. These nanofibres can be manufactured in lengths of potentially thousands of kilometres and are expected to transform industries such as aviation and marine safety.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 10, 2013

Researchers find causality in the eye of the beholder

A team of researchers has shown that our visual brain can make rapid judgments about causality without relying on cognitive reasoning. The study suggests that certain causal judgments are processed at an early level in the visual system, ending a long-standing debate over how these events are processed.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 10, 2013
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.

Study reveals ordinary glass's extraordinary properties

Ultrastable glasses have been produced in days or hours with properties matching those of thousands-year-old materials. These advancements could lead to stronger metals and faster-acting pharmaceuticals., Computer simulations confirmed the findings, revealing a correlation between molecular structure and physical properties.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 6, 2013

Making a better invisibility cloak

Researchers at Duke University have created a more efficient cloaking device by reducing reflections and increasing wave transmission. The new design uses a diamond-shaped pattern with copper strips to guide electromagnetic waves around an object, eliminating loss due to reflections.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 11, 2012

Influence in times of crisis: How do men and women evaluate precarious leadership positions?

A study published in Psychological Science found that women are less likely to accept precarious leadership positions but more sensitive to social resources. Men, on the other hand, focus on financial resources. The researchers suggest that societal expectations about gender and leadership play a key role in driving these evaluations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 23, 2012
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.

Expalination for ball lightning

Australian scientists unveil new mathematical theory explaining ball lightning, citing ion accumulation on glass windows as key factor. The theory suggests a driving electric field of about a million volts is required to form a ball discharge.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateOct 18, 2012

Physicists crack another piece of the glass puzzle

Emory researchers capture decoupling of rotation and movement in glass particles as they approach the glass state. The findings provide a key piece to understanding condensed matter physics.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2012

Getting NASA's SDO into focus

Scientists optimize SDO's HMI instrument to improve resolution quickly after eclipses. By adjusting heater timing and temperature, they've reduced the recovery time from 60 minutes to around 45-50 minutes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 5, 2012

New way of fighting high cholesterol upends assumptions

Researchers have upended assumptions on how high cholesterol leads to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Desmosterol, a precursor to cholesterol, has been found to suppress inflammatory response genes and regulate cholesterol balance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 27, 2012
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.

Glass shape influences how quickly we drink alcohol

Researchers at University of Bristol found that participants drank more slowly from curved 'beer flute' glasses than straight-sided glass containing lager, suggesting curved glasses compromise ability to gauge liquid levels and pace drinking. This could have positive impact on reducing intoxication and excessive drinking.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 31, 2012

Virus detector harnesses ring of light in 'whispering gallery mode'

Researchers create super-sensor using nanoscale gold spheres to detect single samples of the smallest known viruses. The sensor uses 'whispering gallery mode' to measure precise frequency changes, allowing for accurate detection and sizing of viruses.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 24, 2012

Glass offers improved means of storing UK's nuclear waste

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new method for storing UK's nuclear waste using glass technology. The process, called vitrification, has been shown to produce glass that is resistant to damage from energetic gamma rays.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Nuclear Materials·DateAug 22, 2012

Infants' avoidance of drop-off reflects specific motor ability, not fear

A new study found that infants learn to avoid drop-offs while crawling due to their motor abilities, but this knowledge doesn't transfer to walking. The findings suggest that what infants learn is related to their ability to crawl or walk, not a generalized fear of heights.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateAug 21, 2012
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.

How geckos cope with wet feet

Researchers discovered that geckos have trouble sticking to smooth, wet surfaces when their feet get wet. The animals' toes produce a water-repellent layer, which interferes with their adhesive mechanism. However, once the lizards' feet dry, they can regain their grip and walk on wet surfaces.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 9, 2012

UCF nanoparticle discovery opens door for pharmaceuticals

Researchers at UCF have discovered a non-chemical method to create identical nanoparticles of any size in large quantities. The technique relies on heat to break molten fibers into spherical droplets, resulting in particles that can hold multiple types of materials locked in place.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2012
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.

Too cool to follow the law

Researchers found that glass-former materials don't follow standard dynamics below a sub-melting point threshold, contrary to recent reports. The study highlights the need for precise viscosity data to accurately analyze their behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateAug 1, 2012

Lotus leaf inspires fog-free finish for transparent surfaces

Researchers create superhydrophobic coatings to repel water and fog from glass and other transparent materials. The coatings offer improved anti-fogging and light transmittance properties, paving the way for clearer windshields, windows, and solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 28, 2012

Voters' views of Mormonism still hamper Romney's campaign

Research reveals a 'stained glass ceiling' limits Romney's chances due to unpopularity of Mormons and lack of social contact. Public attitudes toward Mormons must change for Romney's religion to no longer be a hurdle.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateMay 22, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Sunlight and air powers access to sterile water

Researchers at the University of Hull are developing a system to produce constant supplies of sterile water, eliminating the need for chemicals or electricity in remote communities. The device uses porphyrin molecules that react to sunlight to kill bacteria and parasites, making the water safe for healing wounds.

SourceUniversity of Hull·DateMay 4, 2012

X-rays create a window on glass formation

Scientists have visualized the transformation of powder mixtures into molten glass using X-ray microtomography. The study revealed that contact between grains determines whether a mixture turns into liquid glass, and that sodium carbonate plays a key role in initiating chemical reactions.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateApr 16, 2012

Don't send your recycled glasses to developing countries

A recent study found that only 7% of donated recycled glasses were usable, making them twice as expensive as providing ready-made glasses. Donating recycled glasses is not a cost-effective solution to address avoidable blindness in developing countries.

SourceScience in Public·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateApr 3, 2012
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.

Silicon-carbon electrodes snap, swell, don't pop

The study reveals that silicon-carbon nanocomposite electrodes can withstand repeated use and charging cycles without significant degradation. The electrodes' expansion and contraction caused by lithium ion flow are more even and less prone to imperfections, leading to improved battery performance and potential for longer lifetimes.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 14, 2012

The indiscretions of a champagne bubble paparazzi

A study by Gérard Liger-Belair reveals the role of carbon dioxide in champagne bubbles, from second fermentation to gas escape through tiny bubbles popping on the surface of wine. The research provides clues for fine-tuning champagne production, including adjusting bubble size based on fermentation sugar levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateFeb 14, 2012

Champagne gases different out of a flute versus coupe

A study found that champagne gas levels are higher above a flute than a coupe glass, contributing to the distinct experiences. Temperature had no effect on CO2 levels above the flute, with surprising results visualized via infrared thermography.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 2012
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 see 'sloshing' galaxy cluster

The 'sloshing' motion in the hot gas cloud of Abell 2052 helps redistribute heavy elements and limits star formation, while also affecting the growth of the galaxy's supermassive black hole. The Chandra observations provide insights into the complex interactions within the galaxy cluster.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateJan 30, 2012

Alcohol and your heart: Friend or foe?

A recent meta-analysis by CAMH found a complex relationship between alcohol consumption and ischaemic heart disease, with varying risks depending on gender, drinking patterns, and overall health outcomes. The study concludes that lower drinking limits for women are needed to inform safe drinking levels.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalAddiction·DateJan 30, 2012

Nanocrystals make dentures shine

Researchers from Jena University developed a new type of glass ceramic that can be used in dentistry due to its high strength and optical characteristics. The material, which is composed of nanocrystals, achieves a strength five times higher than comparable denture ceramics available today.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateJan 5, 2012
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.

Growstones ideal alternative to perlite, parboiled rice hulls

Growstones, an aggregate made from waste glass, has been shown to increase air-filled pore space in substrates more effectively than perlite and parboiled rice hulls. The study found that Growstones can be used as a substitute for these materials in greenhouse crop production, with improved water-holding capacity and bulk density.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 14, 2011

Counting atoms with glass fiber

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to detect single atoms using ultra-thin glass fibers, allowing for precise measurement of tiny amounts of substances. The technique enables the control of quantum states without destroying them.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 7, 2011

Mechanism of wine swirling explained

Researchers used state-of-the-art instrumentation to track wave motion and measure liquid velocity, discovering that orbital shaking enhances mixing near the glass wall. The study suggests optimal shaking diameter and rotation speed for improved mixing and oxygenation in bioreactors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 21, 2011
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.

Sneaking up on the glassy transition of water

Physicists from the University of Pisa and the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche have put an end to the debate on the glass transition temperature of water. They found that the magic number is approximately 136 Kelvin (-137 Celsius) using a thorough study of water's dynamics, supporting traditional views and refuting recent claims.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 26, 2011

Copper film could lower touch screen, led and solar cell costs

Researchers have developed a technique to create low-cost, high-performance copper nanowire films for displays and solar cells. The new copper nanowire films outperform current indium tin oxide (ITO) films, which are highly transparent but expensive and prone to cracking.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 26, 2011
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.

New 'smart window' system with unprecedented performance

Researchers have developed a smart window system that can inexpensively switch between summer and winter modes, saving air conditioning costs in the summer and capturing free heat from the sun in the winter. The new technology uses a polymer, counterions, and methanol to create a stable, robust, and tunable smart window.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 21, 2011

How to produce flexible CIGS solar cells with record efficiency

Researchers at Empa have developed record-breaking flexible CIGS solar cells with an 18.7% efficiency, overcoming performance limitations on polymer films by reducing deposition temperatures. The innovation enables cost-effective roll-to-roll processing and lower manufacturing costs.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 21, 2011