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Supercharging silicon batteries

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) scientists have designed a novel silicon-based anode to provide lithium batteries with increased power and better stability. The new anode, featuring nanostructured layers of silicon, improves the battery's ability to charge and deliver energy over time.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 6, 2017

Nanoparticles limit damage in spinal cord injury

A biodegradable nanoparticle injection after a spinal cord injury prevents inflammation and scarring that inhibits repair. Mice with the treatment were able to walk better than those without, suggesting a potential new approach for human spinal cord injury treatment.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateSep 5, 2017

Nanoparticles loaded with mRNA give disease-fighting properties to cells

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center developed a nanoparticle delivery system to extend the therapeutic potential of messenger RNA, delivering gene changes to targeted cells. The 'hit-and-run' genetic programming approach can be easily scaled up for various disease applications.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 30, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Making 3-D printing safer

Researchers eliminate almost all nanoparticle emissions from some 3-D printers using a new approach that involves enclosing the device with a HEPA filter and printing at low temperatures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 30, 2017

Delivers medicine to cancer cells while protecting healthy cells

Researchers have developed a method that targets cancerous tumors with chemotherapy, delivering the drug directly to cancer cells while protecting healthy cells. The treatment uses nanoparticles and ultrasound to improve delivery, showing promising results in mice experiments.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateAug 25, 2017
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.

Sopping up sunblock from oceans to save coral reefs (video)

Scientists have created magnetic nanobiocomposite beads that can effectively remove oxybenzone, a coral killer found in sunblock, from seawater. The beads, made from environmentally friendly materials, can capture high concentrations of oxybenzone and have shown promising results in laboratory tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2017

Engineering team images tiny quasicrystals as they form

Researchers have successfully formed and imaged tiny quasicrystals using silica nanoparticles, revealing a non-periodic yet ordered structure. The team used transmission electron microscopy to capture the growth process, which was influenced by varying concentrations of chemical compounds and mechanical stirring.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 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.

Sensing technology takes a quantum leap with RIT photonics research

Research at RIT develops new precision quantum sensing solutions using levitated optomechanics, capturing data with improved accuracy. The study aims to create smaller and lighter sensors for various applications, including detecting gravitational waves and perfecting quantum computing.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateAug 9, 2017

New MRI contrast agent tested on big animals

Researchers developed a new non-toxic contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), surpassing gadolinium's limitations. The agent, PEG-IONCs, demonstrated high biocompatibility in rabbits, beagle dogs, and macaque monkeys, showing promise as a next-generation diagnostic tool.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 31, 2017

One-nanometer trimetallic alloy particles created

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to synthesize microscopic alloy nanoparticles using dendrimers, achieving 24 times greater oxidization activity than commercially available catalysts. The discovery opens up new possibilities for creating high-performance materials in various fields.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 31, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Probiotics: Novel biosynthetic tool to develop metallic nanoparticles

This research reviews the use of probiotics for producing metallic nanoparticles (MNPs), which have potential applications in treating diseases and diagnosing conditions. Gold, silver, copper and zinc oxide NPs are suggested for drug delivery, antimicrobial activity, and anti-corrosive properties.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalRecent Patents on Drug Delivery & Formulation·DateJul 20, 2017

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles can exacerbate colitis

Researchers found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles can increase inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa in mice with colitis. Patients with colitis are recommended to avoid foods containing E171, a food additive made from titanium dioxide.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGut·DateJul 19, 2017
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.

New harmless radiopaque glue to seal bleeding and guide surgery

Researchers developed a nanoparticle-based adhesive that exhibits imaging contrast effect in CT and ultrasound, is biocompatible, and ensures accurate target localization during movement. The new glue has shown less toxicity than FDA-approved options and was successfully tested in animal models for various surgical procedures.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Nanoparticles could spur better LEDs, invisibility cloaks

A University of Michigan team has created a method to add metallic nanoparticles into semiconductors with virtually no added manufacturing cost. The process enhances LED lighting efficiency and allows for precise control over the distribution of particles, potentially enabling future applications such as invisibility cloaks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 19, 2017

Multi-antioxidant nanoparticles to treat sepsis

Researchers developed ceria-zirconia nanoparticles to treat sepsis by removing harmful oxygen radicals and reducing inflammatory responses. The nanoparticles improved survival rates by 2.5 fold in mice with sepsis, offering a new therapeutic strategy for this deadly disease.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 12, 2017
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.

How do you build a metal nanoparticle?

A novel theory explains how metal nanoparticles form, revealing a balance between bond strength and ligand binding. This understanding enables the creation of more efficient and sustainable nanoparticle production processes for applications like biolabeling and targeted drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2017

Nanoparticles coated with antibiotic eliminate drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers developed silver-silica nanoparticles with an ampicillin coating that target antibiotic-resistant bacteria while being inert to human cells. The nanoantibiotic showed efficacy against both resistant and non-resistant strains of E. coli, offering a promising strategy for combating drug-resistant infections.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2017
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.

Antioxidants against sepsis

Korean scientists report that ceria-zirconia nanoparticles act as effective scavengers of oxygen radicals, promoting a greatly enhanced surviving rate in sepsis model organisms. The nanoparticles accumulate in organs where severe immune responses occur and successfully eradicate reactive oxygen species.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 6, 2017

Microplastics from the washing machine

Researchers at Empa investigate microfiber release from polyester textiles during washing, finding constant fiber quantity regardless of temperature or wash cycle duration. The study reveals a lack of effect from washing agents and detergents on microfiber release.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 26, 2017
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.

A mechanical trigger for toxic tumor therapy

Researchers developed a new drug delivery platform that uses ultrasound waves to trigger the dispersal of chemotherapy-containing nanoparticles precisely at tumor sites. The platform resulted in a two-fold increase in targeting efficacy and a dramatic reduction in both tumor size and drug-related toxicity.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalBiomaterials·DateJun 15, 2017
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.

Beetles spark development of color-changing nanoparticles for commercial use

Scientists have developed a new, inexpensive technique to create color-shifting nanoparticles inspired by beetle shells. The method produces tiny particles that can be easily controlled, enabling adjustable colors within materials or fabrics. This breakthrough could lead to the production of easier-to-read sensors and anti-tampering tags.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 14, 2017

Magnets, all the way down!

Assemblies of metallic nanoparticles behave like bulk magnets, displaying intriguing shape-dependent behavior that could improve high-density information storage technologies. The structures' magnetic behavior is influenced only by the shape of the assemblies, revealing a single bulk ferromagnet.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 13, 2017

Nanoparticles: What is their fate and how do they change?

The NANOaers project investigates airborne nanoparticle mixtures and their impact on respiratory health. Researchers analyze the behavior of nanoparticles with other chemicals, aiming to predict their fate and potential health effects.

SourceBfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment·DateJun 13, 2017

Simulations pinpoint atomic-level defects in solar cell nanostructures

Scientists used computational models to investigate heterostructured nanoparticles and found that atomistic defects can jeopardize solar cell performance. They predicted a new material with improved optical properties, opening doors for more efficient energy conversion.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 8, 2017
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.

Oyster shells inspire new method to make superstrong, flexible polymers

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new technique to create superstrong, flexible polymers inspired by the nacre of oyster shells. The method uses controlled self-assembly of nanoparticles in a polymer matrix to improve mechanical properties.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Central Science·DateJun 7, 2017

Nanoparticles and magnets offer new, efficient method of removing oil from water

A new technique uses magnetic nanoparticles to separate oil from water through electrostatic force and a magnet, showing promise for improving water treatment in oil and gas production. The researchers believe their method could also be used to treat millions of gallons of fresh water and clean drinking water.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Nanoparticle Research·DateJun 7, 2017

A method to improve in vitro tests

Researchers at EPFL developed a dynamic test method that replicates blood and lymphatic systems, allowing for more accurate nanoparticle testing. This method reduces discrepancies between in vitro and in vivo tests, providing valuable insights into nanoparticle behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalSmall·DateJun 6, 2017
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.

UC San Diego chemists create the ultimate natural sunscreen

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed nanoparticles that mimic the behavior of natural melanosomes, protecting skin cells from UV radiation. These synthetic melanin-like nanoparticles show promise as artificial melanosomes for novel therapy development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 17, 2017

Ultrafast tunable semiconductor metamaterial created

Researchers have devised an ultrafast tunable metamaterial based on gallium arsenide nanoparticles that can be turned on and off quickly, paving the way for ultrafast optical computers. The material consists of semiconductor nanoparticles that concentrate and interact with light efficiently.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2017

Better cathode materials for lithium-sulphur-batteries

Researchers have developed a new cathode material that uses porous Ti4O7 nanoparticles to confine polysulfides, resulting in high specific capacity and stable performance. This material has the potential to replace expensive and toxic heavy-metal compounds used in traditional lithium-sulphur batteries.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 17, 2017

The brighter side of twisted polymers

Researchers at KAUST have developed a strategy to create highly fluorescent nanoparticles through molecular design of conjugated polymers. The twisted shape of the molecules produces smaller, brighter particles with tunable spectroscopic properties, opening up new opportunities for bio-imaging and nanomedicine.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2017
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.

Can crab shells provide a 'green' solution to malaria?

A non-toxic mixture of chitin-rich crab shell powder and silver nanoparticles effectively inhibits the growth of mosquito larvae and prevents bacterial species from multiplying. The eco-friendly solution shows promise in controlling the spread of disease-carrying mosquitoes, including those responsible for malaria.

SourceSpringer·JournalHydrobiologia·DateMay 11, 2017

Gene-delivery system prevents vision loss from inherited eye disease

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a gene-carrying nanoparticle that delivers healthy RPE65 genes to photoreceptor cells, preventing vision loss in mice with Leber congenital amaurosis. The therapy's success indicates promise for treating other inherited visual disorders.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateMay 10, 2017

American Scientific publishers give UTA physicist Wei Chen Best Paper Award

Wei Chen, a UTA physics professor, has received the Best Paper Award from American Scientific Publishers for his pioneering work on using nanoparticles to treat cancer. His research involves activating toxins to kill cancer cells and has led to over 20 further journal articles and international recognition.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMay 5, 2017
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.

Nanotechnology designed to speed up the hardening of concrete

Researchers at Tecnalia and the ICMCB-CNRS have developed an ultrarapid synthesis method for nano-tobermorite, which speeds up concrete hardening. The technology enables mass production of high-quality tobermorite nanoparticles within minutes, not days.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 26, 2017

A novel form of iron for fortification of foods

A novel form of iron, combining protein fibers and iron nanoparticles, has been discovered to fortify food and drinks with iron. This new compound has been shown to cure iron deficiency in rats and is easily digested.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 25, 2017
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.

Self-assembled nanostructures can be selectively controlled

Scientists create programmable nanostructures using pH-sensitive DNA locks to control the optical properties of plasmonic metamolecules. This technology has potential applications in sensors, optical switches, and phase shifters with tailored functionalities.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 24, 2017

Nanoparticles remain unpredictable

Researchers analyzed 270 studies and found a mixed picture of nanoparticles' behavior, with their reactions depending on acidity, mineral concentration, and organic substances. The data is inconsistent, insufficiently diverse, and poorly structured, hindering universal predictions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2017

Sharon C. Glotzer wins 2017 MRS Communications Lecture Award

Sharon C. Glotzer received the 2017 MRS Communications Lecture Award for her work on polymer-tethered nanoparticles. Her paper, published in MRS Communications, demonstrates the use of computational tools to design and assemble functional materials nanostructures.

SourceCambridge University Press·DateApr 18, 2017
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.