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Swedish workers among Europe's best-paid in late 1800s

New research from Uppsala University reveals that Swedish construction workers' wages rose by 176% between 1831 and 1900, surpassing other European cities like Amsterdam and Paris. This unexpected trend can be attributed to high labor market mobility and mass emigration to America, which reduced the supply of unskilled labor.

SourceUppsala University·JournalThe Journal of Economic History·DateSep 1, 2020
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.

Large tin monosulfide crystal opens pathway for next generation solar cells

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully grown large single crystals of tin monosulfide (SnS), a promising material for next-generation solar cells. The achievement marks a significant step towards developing SnS solar cells with high conversion efficiency and could accelerate their practical application.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateAug 21, 2020

Lipid-Oligonucleotides (LONs) --- Promising materials for bioapplications

LONs have shown outstanding properties in designing membrane-anchored biosensors and synthetic membrane channels due to their information-transfer and self-assembly abilities. They also have great potential in making contributions to developing new therapies and controllable nanoreactors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 20, 2020

The historical partnership that revolutionized battery research at Argonne

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory are working on a new generation of lithium-ion battery materials, including manganese-rich compounds and spinel-type structures. These materials have the potential to improve energy density, safety, and cost-effectiveness, enabling widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateAug 18, 2020
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.

2D materials for ultrascaled field-effect transistors

Researchers at ETH Zurich and EPF Lausanne have identified 13 possible 2D materials that can be used to build ultra-scaled field-effect transistors, potentially surpassing conventional silicon-based technology.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 17, 2020

Pressure-induced 2D-3D conversion in hybrid lead iodide layered perovskite

Researchers successfully converted a 2D hybrid Dion-Jacobson lead iodide perovskite to a 3D perovskite phase at ambient conditions after pressure treatment. This process enables the use of high-pressure techniques for preparing materials with improved properties, suitable for real-world applications in optoelectronics and luminescence.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2020

A titanate nanowire mask that can eliminate pathogens

A titanate nanowire mask can trap and destroy pathogens using photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide, potentially reducing waste and environmental impact of disposable masks

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 7, 2020

Scientists open new window into the nanoworld

Researchers at JILA have developed an ultraviolet laser technique to probe materials down to 5 nanometers thick, revealing surprising discoveries about material behavior. The study found that very thin materials can be up to 10 times softer than expected, and certain dopings can disrupt atomic bonds, affecting strength.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateJul 15, 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.

New bioink for cell bioprinting in 3D

A research group at Linköping University has developed a dynamic bioink that allows cells to survive and thrive during 3D printing. The bioink's properties can be modified as required, enabling the creation of tissue-mimicking materials with tailored functionalities.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBiofabrication·DateJul 13, 2020

An $18 million boost to materials science research at UC San Diego

The UC San Diego lab funded by the grant will focus on developing new materials with improved properties for medical diagnostic tests, therapeutics, and decontamination. The center will also provide opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to work together and chart new avenues for innovation in materials science.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 9, 2020

Science study: Chemists achieve breakthrough in the synthesis of graphene nanoribbons

Researchers at MLU, UT, and ORNL have successfully produced graphene nanoribbons directly on semiconductor surfaces, overcoming previous limitations. This breakthrough enables customization of the material's properties, paving the way for potential applications in storage technology, semiconductor industry, and quantum computing.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 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.

Researchers create a photographic film of a molecular switch

A European research team developed a photographic film at the atomic level to track the motion of a molecular building block. The result shows a light-controlled 'pedalo-type motion', moving forward and backward, which could help control material properties with molecular switches.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJun 18, 2020

Signatures of fractional electronic charge observed in topological insulators

Scientists at the University of Illinois have detected fractional electronic charges in topological insulators, a breakthrough that could lead to more efficient and robust devices. The discovery was made using specially designed microwave resonators, which allowed the researchers to measure the signature of these fractional charges.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalScience·DateJun 9, 2020
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.

Shedding a new light on 2D materials

A team led by Nathan Youngblood and Feng Xiong investigated how light affects 2D materials like MoTe2 for improved data storage. They found that reducing material dimensions increases efficiency due to energy proportional to area rather than volume.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 8, 2020

Tuning the interfacial properties of 2D heterophases though tilt-angles

Scientists at Peking University found that the contact characteristics of 1T'/2H-MoTe2 phase boundary depend on the tilt angles between metallic and semiconducting phases. The researchers discovered that a 0° tilted phase boundary has stronger atomic bonds and better contact performance.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJun 2, 2020

Atomically thin magnets for next generation spin and quantum electronics

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed an atomically thin magnetic semiconductor that enables faster processing speed, less energy consumption and increased storage capacity. The material works at room temperature and can be integrated with existing semiconductor technology.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2020

Scientists have created new nanocomposite from gold and titanium oxide

Researchers at ITMO University have successfully created a new nanocomposite from gold and titanium oxide by using lasers to tune its structure and properties. The technique enables better control over the nanocomposite's formation and has potential applications in industries such as air purification and fuel cells.

SourceITMO University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMay 8, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists suggest using machine learning to predict materials' properties

Researchers from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University used machine learning methods to predict artificial sapphire crystals' properties. The goal is to minimize defects in crystal structure for modern technology development.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalJournal of Electronic Science and Technology·DateApr 30, 2020

Coupled magnetic materials show interesting properties for quantum applications

Researchers have discovered a novel way to couple the excitations of magnetic spins in two different thin films, leading to strong coupling and potential applications in spintronic and quantum systems. This dynamic coupling enables the exchange of energy between the two layers, allowing for longer-lasting magnetization dynamics.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2020

Advanced memory from advanced materials

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have successfully demonstrated a method to switch a novel material between two different nonvolatile states at very high speeds and with great accuracy. This breakthrough finding has potential applications in creating high-speed memory devices that are also energy-efficient.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2020
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.

Engineering honor For Lashanda Korley

LaShanda Korley, a renowned materials scientist at the University of Delaware, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering. Her work focuses on developing bio-inspired materials with applications in healthcare, sensing, and soft robotics.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 20, 2020

Under pressure: New bioinspired material can 'shapeshift' to external forces

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have created a self-adapting material that can change its stiffness in response to applied force, mimicking how human bone adjusts to its environment. This advancement holds promise for developing materials that can self-reinforce damaged areas and accelerate treatment of bone-related diseases.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 17, 2020

Self-actuating pollen-based paper

Researchers created pollen-based paper with responsive properties to humidity, allowing fine-tuning of responsiveness through variations in thickness and surface roughness. The material absorbs moisture, curls, and resumes its shape, demonstrating self-actuation and environmental sensitivity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 2020

New carbon dot-based method for increasing the efficiency of solar cells & LED

Scientists at ITMO University have developed a new method to increase the efficiency of solar cells and light-emitting diodes by augmenting their auxiliary layers with carbon dots. This approach has led to significant improvements in efficiency, with increases of up to 13% for perovskite-based solar cells.

SourceITMO University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 25, 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.

Heat and light create new biocompatible microparticles

Researchers at Duke University have developed a method to create new shapes of biocompatible microparticles by applying heat and light to proteins. These particles can be tailored for various applications such as drug delivery, diagnostics, and tissue engineering.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2020

A graphene innovation that is music to your ears

Researchers at Berkeley Lab developed a graphene-based transducer that converts electric signals into sound with efficiency and control. The technology has the potential to revolutionize audio products, offering crystal-clear sound quality and improved performance.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateMar 11, 2020

KITE code could power new quantum developments

Researchers developed open-source software to assist in creating quantum materials, which could vastly increase computing power and reduce energy consumption. The Quantum KITE initiative uses sophisticated computer programmes to predict material properties, enabling the creation of realistic simulations with unprecedented atom numbers.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 2, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Anomalies in structure of polyvalent metal melts explained

Scientists have revealed that gallium melt lacks stable crystalline domains and molecule-like Ga2 dimers, offering a fresh perspective on melt formation processes. Experimental data from neutron diffraction provided critical evidence to support this finding.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateFeb 28, 2020

10,000 times faster calculations of many-body quantum dynamics possible

Researchers at Kiel University have created a new simulation method that enables fast calculations of many-body quantum dynamics, saving computer time by up to 10,000 times. This breakthrough allows for simulations of complex quantum systems, such as molecules and solids, with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceKiel University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 20, 2020

Graphene mapping 50 times faster

Researchers at UT University have developed an algorithm that improves Raman spectroscopy's signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for faster graphene mapping. The technique can also be applied to other two-dimensional materials, such as germanene and silicene.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 6, 2020

Induced flaws in metamaterials can produce useful textures and behavior

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered how induced defects in metamaterials produce radically different consistencies and behaviors. The study has far-reaching applications, including protecting fragile components in car crashes and manipulating distant objects using minimally invasive surgery.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 5, 2020
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.

Silver improves the efficiency of monograin layer solar cells

Researchers at Tallinn University of Technology have improved the efficiency of monograin layer solar cells by replacing copper with silver in absorber material. This innovation increases efficiency by 2%, making it an attractive solution for renewable energy production.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateDec 10, 2019

Scientists see defects in potential new semiconductor

Researchers have discovered point defects in beta gallium oxide, which could impact its efficiency as a semiconductor. The defects can provide opportunities for unprecedented control of the material's properties if properly manipulated.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 5, 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.

Material for safer football helmets may reduce head injuries

Researchers have developed elastic microlattice pads that can withstand both single hits and repeated impacts better than existing state-of-the-art foams. The new material absorbs up to 48% more energy efficiently compared to the top vinyl nitrile foam during repeated impacts.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·DateNov 27, 2019

Bone breakthrough may lead to more durable airplane wings

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a way to strengthen bone structure using computer software, potentially treating osteoporosis and creating lightweight materials for the aerospace industry. The team found that horizontal rod-like struts play a crucial role in extending the fatigue life of bone.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 2019

Clean carbon nanotubes with superb properties

Researchers at Aalto University and Nagoya University have developed a new method to make ultra-clean carbon nanotube transistors with superior semiconducting properties. The new method produces hundreds of individual devices within 3 hours, reducing processing time and increasing efficiency.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 19, 2019

Multimaterial 3D printing manufactures complex objects, fast

MM3D printing breaks the speed barrier for multimaterial 3D printing by switching between up to eight materials at 50 times per second. This enables the creation of complex shapes and origami-like architectures with high quality transitions.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 2019
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.

Ground failure study shows deep landslides not reactivated by 2018 Anchorage Quake

A new study published in Seismological Research Letters found that deep landslides triggered by the 1964 magnitude 9.2 Great Alaska earthquake were not reactivated by the 2018 magnitude 7.1 Anchorage earthquake. Researchers attributed this to the shorter duration and higher frequency of shaking during the 2018 quake, which likely kept ...

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateOct 23, 2019

Big data technique reveals previously unknown capabilities of common materials

A new big data technique has revealed the previously unknown properties of nickel, enabling applications in data storage, biosensors, and quantum computing. Researchers discovered that nickel can produce a huge magnetic field when made into single-crystal nanowires and subjected to mechanical energy.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateOct 18, 2019

Exoplanet interiors have Earth-like geochemistry

A new study reveals that some exoplanets have Earth-like geochemistry, with high oxidation levels similar to those in the Solar System. This finding suggests that rocky exoplanets may have similar internal properties to Earth and Mars.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 17, 2019
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.

Watching energy transport through biomimetic nanotubes

The researchers developed a microfluidic platform to study an artificial light-harvesting complex inspired by photosynthetic bacteria. They found that at low light intensities, the system absorbs photons efficiently, while high intensities trigger the release of excess energy as a safety valve.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2019

The science of 'Breaking Bad': Would you know if meth was cooked inside your house?

Researchers analyzed a former methamphetamine-cooking house and found high levels of contamination in everyday items, including blinds, carpets, walls, and even toys. The study raises questions about the effectiveness of current surface detection methods in identifying indoor contamination risks.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateOct 8, 2019

Scientists observe how acoustic interactions change materials at the atomic level

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used X-rays to observe spatial changes in a silicon carbide crystal when exposed to sound waves. The study demonstrates the potential of acoustic interactions to change materials at the atomic level, paving the way for novel techniques in quantum information technologies.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 24, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Neural networks will help manufacture carbon nanotubes

Researchers have developed an effective method to monitor carbon nanotube films using artificial neural networks (ANN). The technique can help predict the efficiency of single-walled carbon nanotubes synthesis and improve the overall production framework, leading to new horizons for real-life applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCarbon·DateAug 8, 2019

Two ORNL researchers receive presidential early career award

David Cullen and Kate Page, researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, have received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. They were recognized for their exceptional research accomplishments in fuel cell materials and nanoparticle properties, respectively.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJul 29, 2019

Physicists from IKBFU create metallic alloy for magnetic refrigerator

Researchers at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University have developed a new metallic alloy that can be used in magnetic refrigeration technology, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants like freon. The manganese-arsenic alloy shows promising results for solid-state cooling at room temperature.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateJul 25, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.