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Computer vision helps find binding sites in drug targets

Scientists developed BiteNet, a machine learning algorithm using computer vision to analyze protein structures and detect binding sites. The approach expands the array of possible pharmacological targets and improves speed and accuracy.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 27, 2020

Making new materials using AI

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) used artificial intelligence to create novel materials for memory devices. By controlling atomic structures, they discovered a unique ferroelectricity pattern, leading to the synthesis of a new material with unprecedented properties.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 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.

New algorithm sharpens focus of world's most powerful microscopes

A new computer algorithm improves the quality of 3D molecular structure maps generated with cryo-electron microscopy, enabling researchers to determine atomic-level structural models. The algorithm enhances map resolution and visibility, particularly for complex biological molecules.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 8, 2020

An electrical trigger fires single, identical photons

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a precision photon source made from an atomically thin semiconducting material, enabling the generation of single, identical photons. This breakthrough could aid in developing secure and fast quantum communication networks.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A fresh sense of possibility

Researchers at KAUST have developed graphene-based sensors to monitor multiple environmental variables in extreme conditions. The sensors can withstand temperatures of up to 650 degrees Celsius and offer increased sensitivity in temperature sensing.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 22, 2020

Giant nanomachine aids the immune system

Researchers have created an atomic structure of the peptide-loading complex, a biological nanomachine that loads antigens onto MHC molecules. This allows for detailed molecular dynamics simulations to study its dynamics and mechanism, enabling targeted interventions in immune processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2020

Quantum simulation of quantum crystals

Researchers from the University of Freiburg and their collaborators have developed a new method to simulate the formation of quantum crystals using dipolar atoms. This allows for unprecedented precision in measuring structures that have not been observed before, providing insights into the quantum properties underlying crystal formation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 27, 2020

Meteorite strikes may create unexpected form of silica

Scientists have discovered a novel disordered crystalline phase of silica that forms under dynamic shock compression, challenging longstanding assumptions about the material's behavior. The findings provide new insights into planetary formation and evolution, and may reveal details about the Earth's geologic history.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 26, 2020
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.

Understanding matter at atom-crushing densities

The Center for Matter at Atomic Pressures (CMAP) will investigate the properties of matter under high pressures, shedding light on the formation and evolution of planets. The research aims to uncover novel properties of materials and their potential applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 10, 2020

Tiniest secrets of integrated circuits revealed with new imaging technique

A new imaging paradigm using broadband electric force microscopy has been developed to non-destructively image and localize dopant structures in silicon chips. The technique provides a wealth of previously inaccessible detail about the electrical environment around these structures.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 5, 2020
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.

Smile: Atomic imaging finds root of tooth decay

A collaboration between Cornell and Northwestern universities has exposed tiny chemical flaws in human enamel using atomic imaging techniques. The findings suggest that irregularities in the enamel's structure may play a role in reinforcing it, making it more resilient to decay.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2020

Working on the frontier of nanoparticle research

The University of Pittsburgh's CANELa lab is advancing nanoparticle research by modeling metal nanoclusters with exact structures, allowing for accurate theory and investigation of their properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of active sites for catalysis, a key focus of the lab.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJul 21, 2020

Polycatenanes in mesoscale

A Japanese research group led by Professor Shiki Yagai has successfully created polycatenanes, self-assembled molecule rings that can be observed under a microscope. By using atomic force microscopy, they confirmed the structure of poly[22]catenane made up of as many as 22 connected rings, reaching up to 500 nm in length.

SourceChiba University·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2020
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.

Electron cryo-microscopy: Using inexpensive technology to produce high-resolution images

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have successfully determined the structure of ferritin using an affordable electron cryo-microscope, achieving resolutions comparable to expensive equipment. This method enables collaboration on structural analysis of samples with medical and biotechnological potential.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 13, 2020

Porous graphene ribbons doped with nitrogen for electronics and quantum computing

Researchers have successfully produced porous, nitrogen-containing graphene ribbons exhibiting semiconducting properties, which is essential for their potential applications in electronics. These new materials could display extraordinary magnetic properties, making them suitable for quantum computing applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 2020

Process for 'two-faced' nanomaterials may aid energy, information tech

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a method to implant atoms precisely into ultra-thin crystals, yielding Janus structures with different chemical compositions. This technique may improve the abilities of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) to separate charge and catalyze chemical reactions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 26, 2020
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.

Researchers discover new boron-lanthanide nanostructure

Researchers from Brown and Tsinghua Universities have created a bizarre cage-like structure by clustering boron atoms with lanthanide elements, challenging conventional chemistry rules. The discovery may shed light on bulk structure and chemical bonding behavior of boron lanthanides, an important class of materials.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2020

Quantum rings in the hold of laser light

Researchers from the Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences successfully create tensile and inhomogeneous quantum rings in a controlled manner. The work involves trapping ultracold atoms in optical lattices and modifying interaction between atoms to mimic superconductors.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2020

Scientists discover three-dimensional structure in smaller water droplet

Researchers reveal noncyclic 3D structure of water clusters begin to exist with pentamers at low finite temperatures. A new method using infrared spectroscopy and quantum chemical studies confirms the formation of a noncyclic 3D structure beginning with pentamers.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020

Machine learning predicts nanoparticles' structure and dynamics

Researchers developed machine learning methods to predict nanoparticles' structures and atomic dynamics, significantly faster than traditional simulation methods. The new methods facilitated efficient explorations of particle-particle reactions and particles' functionality in their environment.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 9, 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
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.

Army Research Laboratory supporting Texas A&M research on armor performance

A Texas A&M University research project, led by Dr. Justin Wilkerson, aims to identify the damaging effects of vacancies in aluminum's atomic structure on ballistic performance. The study uses supercomputing facilities to calculate changes due to vacancies over time and may lead to improved armor materials for the US Army.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 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.

Two is better than one

A team of scientists has developed a new 2D catalyst that can improve the efficiency of water purification using hydrogen peroxide. The catalyst, composed of two co-catalysts on one nanosheet, was designed to increase the efficiency of the process without additional chemical treatment.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2020

Substances trapped in nanobubbles exhibit unusual properties

Researchers created a universal model of nanobubbles to study the behavior of trapped substances. The model predicts bubble shape under thermodynamic conditions and describes molecular structure.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateApr 15, 2020

A new strategy to create 2D magnetic order

Researchers at Peking University and Chinese Academy of Sciences discover atomic mechanism of spin-valve magnetoresistance at asymmetry SrRuO3 grain boundary. The study reveals a new strategy to create 2D magnetic order in grain boundaries, which can dominate response in nanoscale devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 10, 2020
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.

Tracking the atomic pathways by in-situ liquid cell TEM

Researchers observe the atomic growth way of Pt3Ni-Ni(OH)2 core-shell structure at gas-liquid interface using in-situ liquid cell TEM. Experiment results reveal underlying growth and transformation mechanisms, shedding light on rational design of metal-2D core-shell structures.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateApr 8, 2020

3D reconstructions of individual nanoparticles

Researchers have developed a new methodology to resolve the 3D structure of individual nanoparticles with atomic-level resolution, six times smaller than the smallest atom. This breakthrough enables scientists to control nanoparticle properties and behavior in various environments.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

New supramolecular copolymers driven by self-sorting of molecules

Researchers at Chiba University created a new type of helicoidal supramolecular polymer that changes its chemical structure in response to temperature. The polymer was formed by mixing two different monomers and exhibits a unique thermal response, collapsing rapidly at 45-50°C.

SourceChiba University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2020

DNA sugars characterised in unprecedented resolution, atom by atom

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed technology to determine the structure of sugars present in DNA with atomic-level resolution. The study reveals the importance of five-membered ring forms in biological contexts.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 4, 2020

Research brief: Atomic-scale imaging reveals secret to thin film strength

An international team of scientists has made a breakthrough discovery using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, revealing one-dimensional defects in two-dimensional zeolite nanosheets that improve filtration properties. The findings suggest enhanced separation and catalysis capabilities for molecules based on size and shape.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 3, 2020
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.

Carbon chains adopt fusilli or spaghetti shapes if they have odd or even numbers

Scientists at the University of Bristol discovered that carbon chains can form helical shapes dependent on their length, with even-numbered chains adopting fusilli-like structures and odd-numbered chains forming floppy spaghetti-like shapes. The researchers controlled the shape by inserting methyl substituents along the chain.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 2, 2020

An 'exceptionally stable' single-atom catalyst

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology design and test a catalyst composed of single platinum atoms trapped in C12A7 crystals, demonstrating high stability and activity for selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes. The approach could be adapted to various transition metals and withstand harsher conditions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2020
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.

Creating custom light using 2D materials

Scientists have created custom light using 2D materials by combining different transition metal dichalcogenides to form artificial semi-conductors emitting specific colors. This discovery opens up new strategies for manipulating light with precise energy and color, paving the way for mass industrialization of tailor-made lighting.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 18, 2020

Quantum fluctuations sustain the record superconductor

Researchers have discovered that atomic quantum fluctuations stabilize the record-breaking superconductor LaH10, enabling superconductivity at much lower pressures than previously expected. The study reveals a highly symmetric structure with a single minimum energy landscape, contrary to classical predictions, which could lead to high-...

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature·DateFeb 10, 2020

Key molecular machine in cells pictured in detail for the first time

Researchers have finally determined the atomic structure of the histone mRNA three-prime end-processing machine, a complex assembly of molecules that plays a fundamental role in proper cell activity and DNA duplication. This breakthrough provides valuable insights into how this machine is activated and regulates gene expression.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2020

High-precision imaging revealed what holds on the smallest light responsive gold chain

Chemists at the University of Jyväskylä Finland and University of California succeeded in determining the atomic precise structure of a chain of gold nanoclusters. The study reveals the disulfide-bridging bond between the bound nanoclusters, advancing our understanding of the optical and electronic response of these systems.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 5, 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.

Ancient Greek tholos-like architecture composed of archaeal proteins

Researchers have identified a unique archaeal protein complex with a five-column tholos-like architecture, featuring a spacious center that can accommodate biomolecules. This discovery provides insight into the molecular evolution between archaeal and eukaryotic proteins.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 3, 2020

Clusters of gold atoms form peculiar pyramidal shape

Researchers have discovered that freestanding gold clusters of twenty atoms take on a pyramidal shape with a triangular ground plane and additional triangles. The study reveals the cluster's unusual electronic structure, which is similar to noble gas atoms or aromatic molecules, making them less reactive.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2020
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.

Freeze frame: Scientists capture atomic-scale snapshots of artificial proteins

Researchers at Berkeley Lab successfully image the atomic structure of peptoid nanosheets using cryo-EM, a breakthrough that could advance applications such as synthetic antibodies and self-repairing membranes. The study demonstrates unprecedented atomic precision and paves the way for designing soft materials at the atomic scale.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2019

Once hidden cellular structures emerge in fight against viruses

A team of researchers at the University of Arizona has uncovered a previously unknown cellular structure that enables bacteria to rapidly defend against viruses. This newly formed filament increases DNA-cleaving ability by 200 times, making it an essential component of bacterial immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalStructure·DateNov 26, 2019

A distinct spin on atomic transport

The study demonstrates simultaneous control over transport and spin properties of cold atoms, enabling the exploration of spintronics and solid-state physics. The efficiency of the atomic spin filter matches that of equivalent electronic systems, opening up new perspectives for studying quantum transport dynamics.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 8, 2019
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.

Evading Heisenberg isn't easy

Researchers at EPFL have found unexpected constraints on the achievable sensitivity of measurements, even with backaction-evading techniques. Tiny deviations in optical and mechanical frequencies can cause mechanical oscillations to amplify out of control, affecting quantum sensors and applications.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review X·DateOct 31, 2019

Determining the shapes of atomic clusters

A team of researchers has confirmed that distinctive geometric shapes and irregular amorphous structures can be identified mathematically in atomic clusters. The new method provides insights into the structural properties and potential forces between atoms, enabling more effective engineering of nanoparticles for specific applications.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateOct 25, 2019
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.

Molecular nanocarbons with mechanical bonds

Researchers develop new synthesis method to create molecules with partial structures of fullerenes, graphene, and carbon nanotubes. They successfully synthesize catenanes and knots, which are expected to be used in molecular machines and have specific properties derived from the topology.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalScience·DateOct 7, 2019