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Strong magnets put new twist on phonons

Rice University scientists discovered that strong magnetic fields can manipulate the material's optical phonon mode, a phenomenon previously unseen. The effects were much stronger than expected by theory, revealing a new way of controlling phonons.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022

Anisotropic supercurrent through twisted Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x van der Waals stacks: a step towards explaining high-temperature superconductivity

A Korean research team has demonstrated the anisotropic superconductivity of a high-temperature superconductor by stacking twisted pieces of Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x using the microcleave-and-stack technique. This study confirms material properties and develops a new fabrication method for nanomaterials.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 9, 2022
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.

Earliest known report of ball lightning phenomenon in England discovered

Researchers at Durham University have identified a medieval text written by Benedictine monk Gervase of Christ Church Cathedral Priory as the earliest known account of ball lightning in England. The description, composed around 1200, matches historical and modern reports of the phenomenon.

SourceDurham University·JournalWeather·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 26, 2022

Discovery unravels emergent atomic vibrations in superlattices

Researchers employed microscopy techniques to study the atomic structure and vibrations of perovskite oxides in superlattices. The discovery enables the rational design of materials with unique photonic and phononic properties.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

The first topological acoustic transistor

Harvard researchers create first topological acoustic transistor, utilizing sound waves to control flow on and off. The device demonstrates scalable and controllable 'acoustic switches' with potential applications in efficient noise reduction, ultrasound imaging, and more.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 5, 2022
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.

Speeding up atomic force microscopy

Kanazawa University scientists design a zero-latency amplitude detector for high-speed atomic force microscopy, significantly improving temporal resolution. The new detector enables faster recording of biological processes with higher video frame rates and reduced invasiveness.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 4, 2022

Robotic manipulators inspired by nature

Researchers developed soft manipulators based on pneu-nets, mimicking biological systems like elephant trunks and octopus tentacles. These structures can grasp and manipulate soft objects with increased flexibility.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 21, 2021

A longstanding mystery in manufacturing has been solved

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a simple analytical model to predict chip formation and optimize surface finish in manufacturing processes. The study reveals the critical cutting depth for almost every material, tool geometry, and running conditions, minimizing tool wear and improving product quality.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage

Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Berkeley, describe advances in understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage. Better understanding liquid state physics may help accelerate technology development for the energy sector.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 14, 2021

A novel 3D imaging platform using optical fibers as small as a hair

Researchers created a 3D imaging system using multimode optic fibers, overcoming limitations of scrambling and enabling high-resolution imaging. The system can scan a scene at nearly 23,000 points per second and record near-real-time 3D video.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2021
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.

Smart transformable nanoparticles promise advances in tumor diagnoses, treatment

Researchers have developed smart transformable nanoparticles that can alter their size and shape in response to physiological conditions, improving particle circulation, biodistribution, and targeted therapy for cancer theranostics. These particles promise enhanced tumor diagnoses and treatment by adapting to the physiology of tumors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Molecular device turns infrared into visible light

Researchers developed a molecular device that converts infrared light to visible light, expanding detection capabilities. The device uses tiny vibrating molecules and metallic nanostructures to enhance conversion efficiency.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2021

A pair of gold flakes creates a self-assembled resonator

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology discovered a way to create a stable resonator using two parallel gold flakes in a salty aqueous solution. The structure can be manipulated and used as a chamber for investigating materials and their behavior, with potential applications in physics, biosensors, and nanorobotics.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Three-dimensional X-ray image throws light on neurodegenerative disease

Researchers at Göttingen University have developed a new X-ray imaging method to detect changes in neuronal cell nuclei, indicating altered activity of neurons. This technique enabled the identification of changes in neurons in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 26, 2021
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.

Origami, kirigami inspire mechanical metamaterials designs

Researchers categorize origami- and kirigami-based mechanical metamaterials into six groups based on folding and cutting patterns. Hybrid designs offer great potential for shape morphing and real-world applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateNov 23, 2021

Revolutionary identity verification technique offers robust solution to hacking

A team of computer scientists has developed a secure identity verification method based on zero-knowledge proof, ensuring that information cannot be replicated by hackers. The new method uses two physically separated prover-verifier pairs to confirm identities, eliminating the possibility of collusion and increasing security.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateNov 4, 2021

Drones show promise in speeding up communication with underwater robots for ocean surveys

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science have found that drones can be used as communication bases with underwater robotic devices (AUVs) for ocean surveys. UAVs offer high-speed observations, mobility, and resistance to ocean currents, making them suitable candidates for this application.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalRemote Sensing·DateOct 29, 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.

Innovative chip built by UCPH physicists resolves quantum headache

Researchers at University of Copenhagen have developed a new quantum circuit that can operate and measure all four qubits simultaneously. This breakthrough resolves a significant engineering headache in the development of large functional quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPRX Quantum·DateOct 29, 2021

Teaching robots to think like us

Researchers use physical reservoir computing to teach robots to think like humans by simulating brain signals. The system enables goal-directed behavior without additional learning, highlighting a potential breakthrough in AI development.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 26, 2021

Broadband spintronic-metasurface terahertz emitters with tunable chirality

Researchers developed a novel spintronic-metasurface terahertz emitter that generates broadband, circularly polarized, and coherent terahertz waves. The design offers flexible manipulation of the polarization state and helicity with magnetic fields, enabling efficient generation and control of chiral terahertz waves.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021
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.

Shape-shifting materials with infinite possibilities

Researchers created a shape-shifting material that can morph into any stable shape, enabling independent control of geometry and mechanics. The totimorphic structural materials have the potential to be used in robotics, biotechnology, architecture, and other applications.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2021

Bridging optics and electronics

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a simple spatial light modulator made from gold electrodes covered by a thin film of electro-optical material. This device can control light intensity and pixel by pixel, enabling compact, high-speed, and precise optical devices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2021

Holey metalens!

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a metasurface using ultra-deep holes to focus light to a single spot, achieving a record-breaking aspect ratio of nearly 30:1. This breakthrough enables the creation of large achromatic metalenses with diverse color control capabilities.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 13, 2021

A computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface. The model simulates the solidification process by considering the droplet behavior and heat transfer between the hotter droplet and cooler surface, replicating experiments with high accuracy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Physics outreach programs benefit students’ scientific identities, career prospects

A Texas A&M University study found that physics outreach programs have a positive effect on both students and their audiences, boosting confidence, skills, and career readiness in STEM fields. The programs provide experiential learning opportunities beyond classrooms, promoting deeper understanding and enhanced job prospects.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·TypeNews article·DateOct 12, 2021

Novel quantum effect discovered in naturally occurring graphene

Researchers have found a way to stabilize the novel quantum effect in graphene at room temperature, which could lead to breakthroughs in data storage and computer components. The discovery was made using standard microfabrication techniques and showed that the material can generate its own magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2021

How apples get their shapes

Using observations, lab experiments, theory, and computation, researchers have developed a simple theory to explain the form and growth of apples' cusp-like features. The team found that mechanical instability and underlying fruit anatomy play joint roles in giving rise to multiple cusps in fruits.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 4, 2021
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.

The first glimpse of hydrodynamic electron flow in 3D materials

A team of researchers from Harvard and MIT observed hydrodynamic electron flow in three-dimensional tungsten ditelluride for the first time using a new imaging technique. The findings provide a promising avenue for exploring non-classical fluid behavior in hydrodynamic electron flow, such as steady-state vortices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 2021

Working Smarter: Leveraging Machine Learning to Optimize CO2 Adsorption

A recent study employs machine learning to guide the design of novel materials for CO2 capture, identifying elemental composition and textural properties as key factors. The research team's findings suggest prioritizing adsorption parameters and surface area optimization for high CO2 adsorption efficiency.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Physicists make square droplets and liquid lattices

Researchers at Aalto University created unexpected droplet shapes, including squares and hexagons, by disrupting thermodynamic equilibrium with electric fields. The liquids formed into interconnected lattices and torus shapes, stable for a controlled duration.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 15, 2021
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.

Light does the twist for quantum computing

Researchers generate circularly polarized light at room temperature, a breakthrough for optical quantum information processing. The device uses strained semiconductors to produce twisting 'chiral' valley-polarized light, promising vast data storage capabilities.

SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2021

Surprisingly high emissions from fuel-powered auxiliary heaters in cars

Researchers discovered that particulate emissions from auxiliary heaters can be significantly higher than those of idling gasoline vehicles, raising concerns about their environmental impact. The study highlights the need for further research on the use and development of heaters to reduce emissions.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAtmosphere·DateSep 9, 2021

Mapping the evolution of materials

Lehigh University researchers are developing a model to understand the impact of grain growth on material properties. The project aims to create new materials informatics methods, innovative stochastic differential equations, and models of grain growth to improve material performance and reliability.

SourceLehigh University·DateSep 8, 2021

Tea time gets flavor boost from thin film, impure water

Researchers found that thin films in black tea are strengthened by chemically hardened water, making it suitable for packaged tea beverages. Conversely, acidic components like citrus reduce film visibility and add flavor to dried tea mixes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 7, 2021

Walking with coffee is a little-understood feat of physics

Researchers at Arizona State University studied the physics behind humans balancing coffee while walking, revealing a natural mode of flexibility that mimics human motion. The findings can be used to design smart robots to adaptively handle complex objects in changing environments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021
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.

Best of both worlds: Updating the chemical process to remove organic pollutants from water

Researchers from India and Saudi Arabia have combined oxidation and photocatalysis to create a heterogeneous photo-Fenton system that degrades phenols at higher rates than individual approaches. The system is highly photostable and reusable, making it promising for practical applications in wastewater purification.

SourceShoolini University·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

PPPL physicist helps confirm a major advance in stellarator performance

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute and PPPL confirm a major advance in stellarator performance, achieving temperatures twice as great as the sun's core. The XICS diagnostic instrument revealed a sharp reduction in neoclassical transport, a type of heat loss that has historically been greater in classical stellarators.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2021

Improved water splitting method: A green energy innovation by Pusan National University

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel electrocatalyst that can effectively produce hydrogen and oxygen from water at low cost. The catalyst, composed of transition metal phosphates, achieves high surface area and fast charge transfer, making it suitable for commercial on-site production of hydrogen.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021
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.

Janus graphene opens doors to sustainable sodium-ion batteries

The study reveals that the capacity of sodium ions can match today's lithium-ion batteries, offering a cost-efficient and abundant alternative for energy storage. The unique structure of Janus graphene enables high-capacity energy storage, with specific capacities approaching those of lithium in graphite.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021

Physicists make laser beams visible in vacuum

Researchers at the University of Bonn developed a method to visualize laser beams in a vacuum, allowing for precise alignment of individual atoms. This breakthrough enables faster and more accurate quantum optics experiments, potentially leading to advancements in computing and materials science.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateAug 25, 2021

Making patient care easier: Self-powered diaper sensors that monitor urine sugar levels

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

It’s elementary: Visualizing molecular motion of substituted 9-phosphaanthracene

Scientists have successfully visualized the molecular motion of a highly unstable compound, 10-mesityl-1,8-bis(trifluoromethyl)-9-phosphaanthracene, using novel spectroscopic techniques. The study revealed unprecedented molecular motions and structure information, shedding light on its radical reactivity and potential applications.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Nanomotors for glucose-powered catalytic motion

A research team at POSTECH has developed a biocompatible nanomotor that mimics life's autonomous motility using glucose as fuel. The nanomotors exhibit directional propulsion, overcoming Brownian motion, and show potential for intracellular targeted drug delivery and precise cell manipulation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 17, 2021

Metasurfaces control polarized light at will

Researchers at Harvard SEAS have demonstrated a new way to control polarized light using metasurfaces, enabling holographic images with an unlimited number of polarization states and manipulation in virtually infinite directions. This advancement could lead to applications in imaging, microscopes, displays, and astronomy.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 13, 2021

One-dimensional red phosphorous glows in unexpected ways

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that fibrous red phosphorous, when electrons are confined in its one-dimensional sub-units, shows large optical responses. The material demonstrates giant anisotropic linear and non-linear optical responses, as well as emission intensity.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

Novel molecular imaging technique casts complex coordination molecules in a new light!

A team of researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel imaging method using metal-atom tracers in HAADF-STEM to determine the conformational structures of complex polynuclear coordination compounds. The technique achieves accurate visualization of highly branched molecules, filling a gap in structural analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Wearable technology can help in at-home assessment of myoclonic jerks

A new study developed a wearable technology-based method to assess myoclonus symptoms in the home environment. The method, which measures electrical neuromuscular function and movement, correlates well with assessments performed by experienced physicians.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalClinical Neurophysiology·DateAug 5, 2021