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AI speeds up the discovery of energy and quantum materials.

Researchers developed a new AI model that predicts optical properties across a wide range of light frequencies using only a material's crystal structure as input. This enables highly precise predictions, making it suitable for screening materials for high-performance solar cells and detecting quantum materials.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 7, 2024

New theory demystifies crystallization process

A new theory reveals that the solvent, not solute, is the dominant component in solution, leading to improved understanding of crystal formation. Thermodynamic phase diagrams demonstrate that crystals grow through a melt-like intermediate before organizing into a crystal structure.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 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.

Estimated long-term benefits of finerenone in heart failure

Long-term treatment with the nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone is estimated to extend event-free survival by up to 3 years among people with heart failure. The FINEARTS-HF randomized clinical trial found this benefit in patients with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 27, 2024

Nanostructures in the deep ocean floor hint at life’s origin

Researchers found inorganic nanostructures surrounding deep-ocean hydrothermal vents that mimic molecules essential for life. These structures can harness energy and convert it into electricity, sparking interest in applying this technology to industrial blue-energy harvesting.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2024

AI model can reveal the structures of crystalline materials

A new AI model called Crystalyze can analyze X-ray crystallography data to determine the structure of powdered crystals. The model was trained on a database of over 150,000 materials and successfully predicted structures for over 100 previously unsolved patterns.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 19, 2024
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.

A photonics breakthrough: Printing 3D photonic crystals that completely block light

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have successfully printed 3D photonic crystals using titanium resin, achieving a complete photonic bandgap across the visible spectrum. This breakthrough enables precise control of light, opening up possibilities for advancements in telecommunications, sensing, and quantum te...

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 11, 2024

GIST researchers develop new defect passivation strategy for perovskite solar cells

A team of GIST researchers developed a new defect passivation strategy for polycrystalline perovskites, leading to improved power conversion efficiency and long-term operational stability. The strategy uses a chemically identical polytype of perovskite to suppress defects in the crystal structure.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Crystallized alternative DNA structure sheds light on insulin and diabetes

A UCL-led research team has crystallized the first alternative DNA structure from the insulin gene, revealing its shape and structure. The discovery suggests that different variants in the insulin gene can form different DNA structures, which could affect insulin function and potentially play a role in diabetes development.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2024

Exploring the structures of xenon-containing crystallites

Scientists have successfully characterized the structures of multiple xenon compounds using 3D electron diffraction. The technique allows researchers to discover the structures of challenging noble gas compounds that were previously difficult to handle and characterize.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 14, 2024
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.

TTUHSC’s Guan receives NIH grant to continue cell transport research

Guan's lab will apply accumulated experience and methods to study SLC6A14, a sodium-coupled epithelial amino acid co-transporter involved in cancer and several chronic diseases. CryoEM will be used to determine the structure of SLC6A14, providing insight into its substrate specificity and inhibitory mechanisms.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·DateAug 12, 2024

Novel machine learning-based cluster analysis method that leverages target material property

Researchers developed a novel clustering technique that considers both basic characteristics and target material properties, enabling the categorization of over 1,000 oxides into material groups. This approach uses machine learning to predict target properties and incorporates basic feature information into the analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2024

Tiny quantum sensor to make a big impact

Researchers developed a new 2D quantum sensing chip using hexagonal boron nitride that can simultaneously detect temperature anomalies and magnetic fields in any direction. The chip is significantly thinner than current quantum technology for magnetometry, enabling cheaper and more versatile sensors.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chung-Ang University study reveals a way to enhance the efficiency of perovskite solar cells

Researchers at Chung-Ang University have discovered an additive that enhances the efficiency of perovskite solar cells, resulting in a record-breaking 12.22% efficiency. The additive, 4-phenylthiosemicarbazide, improves stability and reduces defects, paving the way for more accessible and long-lasting solar panels.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2024

Shining light on similar crystals reveals photoreactions can differ

Scientists at Osaka Metropolitan University have found that single crystals of anthracene derivatives react differently when irradiated with light, holding clues for functional applications. The research team discovered non-uniform photoreactions in two of the compounds, which proceed from the edge to the center of the crystal.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024
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.

Save your data on printable magnetic devices? New laser technique’s twist might make this reality

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new laser-induced forward transfer technique using optical vortex to print magnetic ferrite nanoparticles with high precision. The resulting crystals exhibit helix-like twisted structures that can be controlled by changing the optical vortex's helicity.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAPL Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024

Aluminum scandium nitride films: Enabling next-gen ferroelectric memory devices

Researchers have discovered aluminum scandium nitride (AlScN) films that remain stable and maintain their ferroelectric properties at temperatures up to 600°C, making them promising candidates for next-generation ferroelectric memory devices. The films exhibit a high remnant polarization value and only a slight increase in coercive fie...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2024

Aperiodic approximants for relating quasicrystals and modulated structures

Scientists develop locally periodic honeycomb structure with ordered but non-periodic arrangements, exhibiting properties distinct from usual periodic crystals. The study highlights the effectiveness of aperiodic approximants in inducing modulations within self-assembled soft-matter systems.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Magnetic excitations can be held together by repulsive interactions

Physicists at the University of Cologne have discovered that magnetic elementary excitations in BaCo2V2O8 crystals are bound by both attractive and repulsive interactions. The study found that repulsively bound states, which were unexpected due to their lower stability, can exist in these materials.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

New method for transfer printing of flexible electronics

Researchers at IBS have developed a damage-free dry transfer printing technique for flexible electronic devices, overcoming existing challenges such as the use of toxic chemicals and mechanical damage. The new method allows for high-quality electronic materials to be transferred to flexible substrates without damage.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

New carbon nitride membrane revolutionizes lithium extraction from salt lakes

Researchers developed a crystalline carbon nitride membrane that outperforms traditional polymer membranes in separating lithium ions from magnesium ions in salt-lake brine. The innovative design mimics biological ion channels, achieving an impressive selectivity ratio of 1,708 for highly dilute lithium ions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2024

Developing a system to study proteins without fixed structures

Researchers have developed a novel pipeline to study proteins with no fixed structures, using cell-free protein crystallization techniques. This approach enables fast and convenient analysis of intrinsically disordered proteins, paving the way for new drugs and bioanalytical techniques.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 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.

Microscopic defects in ice shape how massive glaciers flow, study shows

A study by MIT scientists found that microscopic defects in the ice shape how massive glaciers flow, leading to revised predictions of future sea-level rise. The researchers developed a model to estimate an icy region's sensitivity to stress, directly relating it to its likelihood of flowing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2024

Scientists develop “x-ray vision” technique to see inside crystals

Researchers at New York University create a new method to see inside crystals, revealing the position of every unit and creating dynamic three-dimensional models. This technique allows scientists to study crystals' chemical history and form, paving the way for better crystal growth and photonic materials.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 3, 2024

Cheap, dirty leftovers can produce pure oxygen

Scientists at Norwegian University of Science and Technology create high-entropy hexagonal manganites for fast oxygen absorption and release. These materials can store and release pure oxygen much faster and at lower temperatures than known materials, making them a promising solution for industrial and medical applications.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2024

Producing novel liquid crystals by stacking antiaromatic units

Scientists have developed a new approach to designing materials with useful electronic and optical properties. By stacking antiaromatic units using van der Waals interactions, researchers created highly conductive liquid crystals. This breakthrough could lead to advances in organic electronics, optoelectronics, and sensing devices.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024
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.

Cost-effective, high-capacity, and cyclable lithium-ion battery cathodes

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a cost-effective and high-capacity cathode material for lithium-ion batteries by doping abundantly available elements, such as aluminum and silicon. The addition of these elements forms strong covalent bonds, enhancing the material's cyclability and capacity retention.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024

Defect removal of 2D semiconductor crystals

Researchers at DGIST developed a method to fixate chemisorbed oxygen molecules via h-BN encapsulation, leading to passivation of 2D semiconductor crystals. This approach can revolutionize the control of defect states in these materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 19, 2024

From defects to order: Spontaneously emerging crystal arrangements in perovskite halides

A new defect-ordered layered halide perovskite was discovered, shedding light on how order can emerge through defects in hybrid organic–inorganic compounds. The compound's optical bandgap increased with the concentration of ordered defects in the lattice, presenting a new strategy for tuning perovskite properties.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024
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.

Automated calculation of surface properties in crystals

Scientists create high-throughput automation to calculate surface properties of crystalline materials using established laws of physics. This accelerates the search for relevant materials for applications in energy conversion, production, and storage.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2024

NHM scientists discover first-ever mineral-based treatment for widespread disease using the structure of crystals

Researchers develop innovative treatment to alleviate deleterious effects of hyperkalemia, a disease affecting 350 million people worldwide. The new mineral-based therapy uses ion transfer to flush excess potassium from the body, offering a safer alternative to existing treatments.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 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.

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

New method for analyzing nanoporous materials

Researchers at TU Graz developed a new method to analyze nanoporous materials using single electron microscope images. The technique determines the three-dimensional distribution of ions in crystal channels or nanopores, leading to a better understanding of aquamarine's blue color and potential applications in material science.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 21, 2024
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.

UNIST researchers uncover revolutionary phenomenon in liquid crystals

Researchers at UNIST have unveiled a new principle of motion in liquid crystals, where objects can move in a directed manner by changing their sizes periodically. The discovery has far-reaching implications for the development of miniature robots and advances research in complex fluids.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2024

Breakthrough in nanostructure technology for real-time color display

Researchers at UNIST have developed a groundbreaking technology that enables the real-time display of colors and shapes through changes in nanostructures. Utilizing block copolymers, they achieved the self-assembly of photonic crystal structures on a large scale, mimicking natural phenomena observed in butterfly wings and bird feathers.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 11, 2024

Adaptive optics at the speed of light

Scientists have created a way to correct distorted light patterns in real time without needing to reapply the same distortion. This method uses nonlinear optics and exploits difference frequency generation to produce an aberration-free output beam.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 5, 2024
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.

Researchers develop amphibian-inspired camouflage skin

The new skin demonstrates excellent mechanical performance, self-adaptive camouflage capabilities, and long-term stability. It can quickly recognize and match the background by modulating optical signals in response to external stimuli.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMar 4, 2024

Study unlocks nanoscale secrets for designing next-generation solar cells

A team of researchers has discovered ways to optimize efficiency and control degradation in perovskite solar cells by engineering their nanoscale structure. The study provides new insights on how to make high-efficiency perovskite solar cells and offers a roadmap for improving their performance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 28, 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
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.

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

Technique could improve the sensitivity of quantum sensing devices

A new technique enables researchers to identify and control a greater number of atomic-scale defects in diamonds, which can be used to build larger systems of qubits for improved quantum sensing. This approach uses a specific protocol of microwave pulses to locate and extend control to additional defects.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPRX Quantum·DateFeb 8, 2024

Solvent sieve method sets new record for perovskite light-emitting diodes

Researchers developed highly efficient and stable perovskite light-emitting diodes using a solvent sieve method, achieving an operating lifetime of over 5.7 years and a record high external quantum efficiency of 29.5%. The study also demonstrated excellent stability in ambient air conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
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.

Scientists mix and match properties to make new superconductor with chiral structure

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a new platinum-iridium-zirconium compound that transitions to a bulk superconductor below 2.2 K and exhibits a chiral crystalline structure. The team's 'mix and match' approach accelerates the discovery of exotic superconducting materials.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 3, 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

Rice scientists pull off quantum coup

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new material that exhibits both quantum correlations and geometric frustration, resulting in a unique flat band structure. This finding provides empirical evidence of the effect in a 3D material and has implications for understanding exotic features in materials science.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024

Deep learning reveals molecular secrets of explosive perchlorate salts

Researchers developed a novel deep learning method to study crystal structure and molecular interactions of perchlorate salts. The analysis revealed that the explosives' nature is linked to chemical bonding and intermolecular interactions.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFirePhysChem·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 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.

Hidden cause of lithium-rich cathode materials’ low energy efficiency revealed

A research team found that voltage hysteresis in Li2RuO3 is attributed to different intermediate crystalline phases formed during charge and discharge processes, not irreversible structure changes. This discovery challenges conventional theory and has implications for developing high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

New 2D material with super-heavy electrons

Researchers at Uppsala University and Columbia University have created a new 2D quantum material, CeSiI, with atoms-thin layers of cerium, silicon, and iodine. The material features super-heavy electrons with an effective mass up to 100 times that of ordinary materials.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2024