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An enzyme makes mushrooms “magical”

Researchers discovered a crucial amino acid exchange that enables PsiM to carry out double methylation during evolution. The enzyme plays a key role in psilocybin production, with implications for biotechnological production of the active ingredient.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2024
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.

Artificial reef designed by MIT engineers could protect marine life, reduce storm damage

The MIT-designed 'architected' reef could dissipate more than 95% of incoming wave energy using a fraction of the material needed, reducing erosion and flooding. The cylindrical structure's unique design leverages turbulence to efficiently break waves, making it a potential solution for coastal protection in various water conditions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 26, 2024

Filming ultrafast molecular motions in single crystal

Scientists have applied time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography (TR-SFX) to study molecular motion in real-time with atomic resolution, revealing three pathways of structural change in a porous coordination network sample. This breakthrough unlocks new opportunities for investigating chemical systems and material science.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Elusive 3D printed nanoparticles could lead to new shapeshifting materials

Researchers at Stanford University have successfully 3D printed tens of thousands of Archimedean truncated tetrahedrons, a geometry predicted to produce promising new materials that can change form in an instant. These nanoparticles can shift between states rapidly by rearranging particles into new geometric patterns.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fast folding for synthetic peptides and microproteins

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a new method that enables the efficient production of cysteine-rich peptides and microproteins in their naturally folded 3D structure. The approach uses organic solvents to mimic nature's oxidative folding process, resulting in speeds of over 100,000 times faster than aqueous...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024

A simple and robust method to add functional molecules to peptides

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a unique chemical reaction to attach two distinct functional molecules to the N-terminus of peptides with a glycine amino acid, achieving site-selective modification and stable carbon-carbon bonds. The method shows potential for labeling diverse peptides and larger proteins for purification,...

SourceTohoku University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 11, 2024

Uncovering the cyclization mechanism of cyclic β-1,2-glucan synthase

A team of researchers has determined the detailed mechanism of cyclization catalyzed by the cyclization domain of cyclic β-1,2-glucan synthase from Thermoanaerobacter italicus. The study reveals that the enzyme produces β-glucosidase-resistant compounds and features a transglycosylation reaction.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Microbiology and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2024

Diamonds are a chip's best friend

Researchers at Kyoto University have determined the magnitude of spin-orbit interaction in acceptor-bound excitons in a semiconductor. The study revealed two triplets separated by a spin-orbit splitting of 14.3 meV, supporting the hypothesis that two positively charged holes are more strongly bound than an electron-and-hole pair.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2024
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.

Electrons screen against conductivity-killer in organic semiconductors

Scientists at University of Utah and University of Massachusetts Amherst uncover the physics behind dopant-polymer interactions that explain inconsistent conductivity issues in organic materials. The discovery reveals that a critical mass of electrons triggers collective screening, allowing rest of electrons to flow unimpeded.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Targeting the transporter

Researchers discover how S1P molecules are released from SPNS2 protein via small cavities, enabling potential treatment for inflammatory diseases. The study provides a foundation for designing future drugs targeting the protein.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalCell Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 15, 2024

Scientists find new way to roll atomically thin nanosheets into scrolls

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a novel approach to create nanoscrolls with improved control over nanostructure. The team achieved tight rolls with scrolls up to five nanometers in diameter and multiple microns in length, opening doors for new applications in catalysis and photovoltaic devices.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 10, 2024
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.

Short X-ray pulses reveal the source of light-induced ferroelectricity in SrTiO3

A team of researchers has identified the intrinsic interactions responsible for light-induced ferroelectricity in SrTiO3. By measuring fluctuations in atomic positions, they found that mid-infrared excitation suppresses certain lattice vibrations, leading to a more ordered dipolar structure.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 1, 2024

BESSY II: Local variations in the atomic structure of High-Entropy Alloys

A new study at BESSY II has provided deeper insights into the ordering processes and diffusion phenomena in High-Entropy Alloys. The team analysed samples of a Cantor alloy, revealing local atomic structures using element-specific EXAFS and Reverse Monte Carlo analysis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024
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.

New method flips the script on topological physics

Researchers have developed a model-free approach to identify topological systems, enabling the discovery of new materials. The method uses experimental approaches to measure topologically protected soft or fragile spots in unknown mechanical metamaterials.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2024

Efficiently moving urea out of polluted water is coming to reality

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

General A-site alloying strategy helps to prepare noble metal-occupied MAX phases

Researchers developed a general A-site alloying strategy to prepare noble metal-occupied MAX phases, enabling the creation of over 100 materials with diverse compositions and crystal structures. These materials exhibit superior catalytic performance, particularly in alkaline hydrogen evolution reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Artificial intelligence unravels mysteries of polycrystalline materials

Researchers at Nagoya University used AI to analyze image data of polycrystalline silicon and discovered staircase-like structures that cause dislocations during crystal growth. The study sheds light on the formation of dislocations in polycrystalline materials, which can affect electrical conduction and overall performance.

SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 19, 2023

Filming the microscopic flow of hydrogen atoms in a metal

A team of researchers at Tohoku University has developed a novel visualization method to study the behavior of hydrogen atoms in alloys. They successfully filmed the flow of hydrogen atoms in pure nickel, revealing that they preferentially diffuse through grain boundaries with large geometric spaces.

SourceTohoku University·JournalActa Materialia·DateDec 19, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Materials scientist finds clue to treat deadly hereditary illness

Researchers have discovered a root cause of Barth syndrome, a deadly metabolic illness, by analyzing faulty cardiolipin molecules and their interaction with cytochrome c. The study used solid-state NMR technology to demonstrate the structural changes that lead to toxic oxidation in mitochondrial membranes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2023

Discovery of structural regularity hidden in silica glass

Researchers discovered a mixture of ring shapes unique to glass and those resembling crystals, with specific areas showing degree of order or regularity despite apparent disorder. The findings contribute to understanding phase-transitions and provide mathematical descriptions for controlling material structures and properties.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateNov 21, 2023

Move over carbon, the nanotube family just got bigger

Researchers have engineered a range of new single-walled transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanotubes with different compositions, chirality, and diameters. The ability to synthesize diverse structures offers insights into their growth mechanism and novel optical properties.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 14, 2023

Targeting a coronavirus ion channel could yield new Covid-19 drugs

Scientists have discovered the open and closed states of the coronavirus E ion channel, which could help develop antiviral drugs to reduce inflammation. The study's findings provide insights into the channel's structure and function, allowing researchers to design molecules that can bind to it and prevent inflammation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 13, 2023
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.

UCLA-led team develops key improvement to Nobel Prize-winning technology

The UCLA-led team has developed a solution to improve cryo-electron microscopy's imaging capabilities for smaller protein molecules, enabling higher-resolution images. This advance is expected to help researchers identify specific locations on proteins that can be targeted for therapeutic purposes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2023

Researchers fabricate chip-based optical resonators with record low UV losses

The new resonators exhibit a record low UV light loss, enabling the development of miniaturized devices for applications such as spectroscopic sensing, underwater communication, and quantum information processing. The researchers achieved this by combining optimized design and fabrication techniques with amorphous alumina materials.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 26, 2023

Atomically-precise quantum antidots via vacancy self-assembly

Scientists fabricate QADs with engineered quantum hole states, exhibiting novel transport properties and unique quantum phenomena. The structures' robustness against environmental influences enables exploration of novel quantum phenomena and material technologies.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2023

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023
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.

Golden rules for building atomic blocks

Researchers at NUS have developed a technique to precisely control the alignment of supermoiêre lattices using golden rules, expanding tunable material properties for diverse applications. They fabricated 20 moiêre samples with accuracy better than 0.2 degrees.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023

Graphene discovery could help generate hydrogen cheaply and sustainably

Researchers from The University of Warwick and The University of Manchester have solved the long-standing puzzle of why graphene is permeable to protons. Protons are strongly accelerated around nanoscale wrinkles in perfect graphene crystals, which could lead to more sustainable hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023

Novel lateral data storage: Two-dimensional ferroelectric semiconductor memory with a bottom contact 100 nm channel using in-plane polarization

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel ferroelectric semiconductor memory device with a 100 nm channel length, enabling high-density storage and seamless integration with existing semiconductor technologies. The device exhibits typical resistive switching, high on/off ratio, large memory window, and good re...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2023

Texas A&M's McKay receives NSF CAREER Award

Dr. McKay will investigate the chemical composition of chromophores in DOM using advanced analytical tools and conduct measurements at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. His research aims to enhance predictions regarding DOM behavior and reactivity in the environment.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 8, 2023

Scientists discover unusual ultrafast motion in layered magnetic materials

Researchers have found an unusual ultrafast motion in layered magnetic materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in high-speed nanomotors for biomedical applications. The discovery was made using cutting-edge ultrafast probes and facilities, revealing a mechanical response across the entire sample.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2023
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 long-debated makeup of the molecules that help organize your cells

A new study from the University of Chicago has laid out the internal structure of polyelectrolyte complexes, a special kind of molecular assembly that helps cells keep themselves organized. The researchers used a combination of simulations and neutron scattering to determine the precise structure of these molecules, which could lead to...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2023

Researchers reveal a powerful platform for studying high-entropy alloy electrocatalysis

A collaborative research team created an experimental platform to control the atomic-level structure of high-entropy alloy surfaces and test their catalytic properties. Their study found that the surfaces performed better in oxygen reduction reactions compared to other materials, indicating a 'pseudo-core-shell-like structure' contribu...

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2023

Successful structure search: Construction of monoatomic lead layers with specially developed method unveiled for the first time

A team of scientists from Chemnitz University of Technology has successfully synthesized two-dimensional lead layers using a novel method. The researchers were able to comprehensively describe the structures of these layers, which could become relevant in the development of novel electronic systems and quantum materials.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2023
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.

WVU researchers capture atomic view of synthetic DNA, revealing ‘molecular scissors’ that could treat disease

Researchers at WVU have developed a way to view synthetic DNA at the atomic level, enabling them to understand how to change its structure for enhanced scissor-like function. This breakthrough could lead to new technology for medical diagnoses and treatments, including potential therapies for diseases like retinal degeneration and cancer.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2023

Discovery may lead to terahertz technology for quantum sensing

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a metal oxide that can enable terahertz technology for quantum sensing. The material, strontium titanate, exhibits unique properties that allow it to interact strongly with terahertz light, forming new particles called phonon-polaritons.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023

Front cover highlights "innovative approach" of research into 2D materials

Lancaster University researchers have developed a novel scanning thermal microscopy approach to directly measure the heat conductivity of two-dimensional materials. This breakthrough enables the creation of efficient waste heat scavengers generating cheap electricity, new compact fridges, and advanced optical and microwave sensors and ...

SourceLancaster University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Highly directional single-photon source

Researchers have developed a novel approach to generate highly directional single photons using a quantum emitter in a one-dimensional waveguide. This design improves extraction efficiency and reduces emission time uncertainty by exploiting the Purcell effect, offering a promising solution for quantum technologies.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalNanophotonics·DateJul 12, 2023
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.

A glimpse into the hexasome: 40 years on

A recent study by the Eustermann group at EMBL Heidelberg reveals that DNA packaging into hexasomes impacts the function of enzymes involved in gene regulation. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the molecular processes of how this packaging regulates genome expression and maintenance.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023

Researchers reveal mechanism of protection against breast and ovarian cancer

A new study reveals that the protein complex BCDX2 plays a critical role in DNA repair, suggesting mutations in this complex could lead to cancer. The research also highlights the importance of screening for mutations in people with a family history of breast and ovarian cancers.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

UQ researchers tackle viruses with pandemic potential

Researchers at the University of Queensland have uncovered the atomic structure of the Langya virus, a highly infectious virus with pandemic potential. The study aims to develop broad-spectrum human vaccines and treatments for Henipaviruses, which cause severe disease and have the potential to get out of control.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2023
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.

Zinc transporter has built-in self-regulating sensor

A new study has determined the atomic-level structure of a zinc-transporter protein, showing how it regulates zinc levels inside cells through a built-in sensor. The protein acts as a dimer, using feedback to control its activity based on zinc levels.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2023

Study unravels the mysteries of actin filament polarity

Researchers have revealed key atomic structures of actin filament ends using cryo-electron microscopy. The study provides fundamental insights into the mechanism behind actin filament polarity, shedding light on disorders such as muscle weakness and heart problems.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2023

The problems with coal ash start smaller than anyone thought

A new study by Duke University researchers reveals that the amount of toxic elements leaching out of coal ash depends largely on its nanoscale structure. The discovery highlights the complexity of coal ash as a material and emphasizes the need for closer examination of fine details within the ash to understand environmental risks.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023
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.

The breakthrough that could lead to new obesity treatments

A new study reveals the molecular structure of UCP1, allowing scientists to develop therapeutics that activate it to burn excess calories. This breakthrough could combat obesity and related diseases like diabetes by activating brown fat tissue.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Essential process for SARS-CoV-2 viral replication visualized

A team at Penn State has produced high-resolution images of SARS-CoV-2's protease protein and polyprotein complex. The research reveals a consistent order in which the proteins are cleaved, potentially supporting more efficient antiviral drugs.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 30, 2023

Clarity with tiny drug crystals

A team of researchers used 3D-electron diffraction/micro-crystal diffraction to determine the structure of Levocetirizine dihydrochloride, an over-the-counter oral antihistamine. This breakthrough allows for a better understanding of its properties and potential applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2023
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.

'Charge density wave' linked to atomic distortions in would-be superconductor

Researchers use spectroscopic imaging scanning tunneling microscope to map atomic positions and measure electric charge, revealing link between electron density and atomic arrangements. The discovery sheds light on the emergence of a 'charge density wave' that distorts lattice vibrations and locks atoms in place.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 17, 2023

Squeezing data from a diamond sandwich

Researchers have developed software to remove signal interference from neutron experiments under megabar pressures. This enables the accurate extraction of data on extraordinary atomic structures of materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 3, 2023

Theory of σ bond resonance in flat boron materials

Researchers propose a new bonding theory that illustrates how each boron atom satisfies the octet rule and how alternating σ bonds further stabilize the 2D sheet. The theory introduces a new form of resonance, allowing delocalization of σ electrons within the plane.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2023
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.

A new quantum approach to solve electronic structures of complex materials

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and University of Chicago developed a hybrid simulation process using IBM quantum computers to solve electronic structure problems. The new method uses classical processing to mitigate noise generated by the quantum computer, paving the way for future improvements.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateApr 7, 2023