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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

The rock that creates clouds

Researchers at TU Wien discovered that feldspar's unique surface geometry provides the perfect anchoring point for water molecules, enabling efficient cloud formation. The hydroxyl layer formed on the feldspar surface allows water molecules to stick and freeze, forming clouds.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 9, 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.

Stripes in a flowing liquid crystal suggest a route to “chiral” fluids

Researchers at MIT find that slow-flowing liquid crystals can spontaneously assemble into large, twisted, chiral structures, opening a new path to generating chiral materials. These structures could serve as spiral scaffolds for assembling intricate molecular structures and be used as optical sensors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2024

Revolutionizing stable and efficient catalysts with Turing structures for hydrogen production

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a novel strategy to engineer stable and efficient ultrathin nanosheet catalysts using Turing structures. This approach effectively resolves the instability problem associated with low-dimensional materials in catalytic systems, enabling efficient and long-lasting hydrogen production.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

Development of zinc oxide nanopagoda array photoelectrode

Researchers developed a zinc oxide nanopagoda array photoelectrode with high electron conductivity, low defects, and enhanced visible light absorption properties. The addition of silver nanoparticles increased photocurrent by approximately 1.5-fold, improving water-splitting hydrogen production.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalElectrochemistry Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024

Taking out the cellular trash

Researchers have discovered the structural proof of DNA and RNA breakdown by PLD3, an enzyme linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study provides a map of the protein, which could lead to better understanding of its role in certain diseases.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 20, 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.

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Magnetization by laser pulse

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have identified a promising phenomenon where certain iron alloys can be magnetized using ultrashort laser pulses. The team has now expanded its findings to an iron-vanadium alloy, revealing a new class of materials with potential applications in spintronics and magnetic sensors.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

From infamy to ingenuity

Researchers have uncovered the intricate molecular mechanism used by parasitic phytoplasma bacteria to manipulate plants. The discovery sheds light on a peculiar phenomenon in nature, where plants exhibit 'zombie-like' effects due to bacterial infection.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Watching electrons at work

The study reveals that excited electrons in perovskites cause a shift towards increased symmetry in the crystal lattice. This attractive interaction between excitons could be exploited to enhance electron transport and improve solar cell performance.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 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.

Straining memory leads to new computing possibilities

Researchers at University of Rochester developed a new form of computing memory by straining materials to create hybrid phase-change memristors. This approach combines the benefits of memristors and phase-change materials, overcoming limitations of existing forms of memory.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Electronics·DateNov 30, 2023

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers develop first-of-its-kind woven material made entirely from flexible organic crystals

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed a unique woven fabric made entirely from flexible organic crystals, expanding their properties to create a remarkably strong and resistant material. The new fabric has potential applications in flexible electronics and extreme conditions such as low temperatures encountered in space exploration.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·DateNov 28, 2023

Physicists trap electrons in a 3D crystal for the first time

Researchers successfully trapped electrons in a three-dimensional material, creating an electronic flat band that can lead to exotic behavior such as superconductivity. The kagome-inspired geometry of the crystal allows for stable trapping of electrons in all three dimensions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2023

Scientists propose perovskite film homogenizing strategy to increase conversion efficiency

Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences propose homogenizing strategy to fabricate perovskite films for solar cells. The process increases conversion efficiency to 26.1%, tying the existing record. The method uses an additive to make up for difference in crystallization and phase transition rates, resulting in long-term stability.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Alpine rock reveals dynamics of plate movements in Earth’s interior

Researchers analyzed whiteschist from the Dora Maira Massif to study rapid upward movements, revealing a sharp decrease in pressure or decompression. This suggests that UHP rocks may not have reached a depth of 120 kilometers before returning to the surface.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2023

Scientists discover molten layer covering Martian core

Researchers used seismic data to locate and identify a thin layer of molten silicates overlying Mars' metallic core. The discovery reveals a denser and smaller Martian core, aligning with other geophysical data and analysis of Martian meteorites. This finding provides new insights into how Mars formed, evolved, and became a barren planet.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2023

Ancient architecture inspires a window to the future

Researchers developed a method to form tailored nanoscale windows in porous materials called MOFs using an architectural arch-forming template. This approach enables precise control over structure formation, leading to the creation of new materials with potential gas separation, medical applications and energy security benefits.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Synthesis·DateOct 2, 2023
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.

Copper-doped tungstic acid nanocrystals transform infrared light conversion

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed copper-doped tungstic acid nanocrystals that can harness all-solar energy, including infrared light. The nanocrystals exhibit enhanced photothermal and photo-assisted water evaporation characteristics, making them suitable for various applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers reveal the effect of AIN surface pits on GaN remote epitaxy

GIST researchers found that nano-sized pits on AlN surfaces cause graphene degradation at higher temperatures, leading to GaN film exfoliation failure. The study's results demonstrate the importance of substrate chemical and topographic properties for successful remote epitaxy.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

A team of researchers has developed an innovative approach to visualize individual molecule dynamics within nanofluidic structures using super-resolution microscopy and single-photon emitters. The study reveals new insights into the behavior of liquids on a nanometer scale, opening up exciting applications in optical imaging and sensing.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023

New insight for stabilizing halide perovskite via thiocyanate substitution

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new strategy to stabilize the α-phase of α-FAPbI3, a promising solar cell material. By introducing pseudo-halide ions like thiocyanate into its structure, the team has successfully stabilized the α-phase, reducing its transition temperature and increasing its energy band gap.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 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.

Graphene: Perfection is futile

Researchers at TU Wien developed a comprehensive computer model of realistic graphene structures, showing that the material's desired effects are stable even with defects. This means graphene can be used in quantum information technology and sensing without needing to be perfect.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCarbon·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 29, 2023

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: More magic starts when flatness ends

Researchers have solved the long-standing puzzle of graphene's proton permeability using ultra-high spatial resolution measurements. Protons are strongly accelerated around nanoscale wrinkles, proving that perfect graphene crystals are permeable.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

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

Listening to nanoscale earthquakes

A recent study presents an exciting new way to measure the crackling noise of atoms in crystals, enabling the investigation of novel materials for future electronics. The method allows researchers to study individual nanoscale features and identify their effects on material properties.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

Displaying the design of DNA

Researchers at Arizona State University successfully demonstrated the use of MicroED to analyze a DNA crystal, overcoming limitations of X-ray crystallography. The technique, combined with cryo-FIB milling, enables work with smaller crystals, opening opportunities for understanding RNA structure and developing novel nanotechnologies.

SourceArizona State University·JournalStructure·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2023

Using gemstones’ unique characteristics to uncover ancient trade routes

Researchers employed laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy to analyze gemstones from the Arabian-Nubian Shield. The study distinguished natural gems from synthetics and isolated elements contributing to their quality, shedding light on ancient trade routes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateAug 1, 2023

Observing the long-postulated intermediate of catalytic amination reactions

Researchers used X-ray photocrystallography to study the transition metal-nitrenoid intermediate in catalytic amination reactions. The team successfully captured the structure and properties of the rhodium-acylnitrenoid intermediate, providing crucial insights into its reactivity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023

Crafting molecular puzzles: A strategic approach to developing robust porous molecular crystals

Researchers developed a stable, porous molecular crystal using triptycene as a building block, leveraging noncovalent interactions to create a flexible material with high solubility and self-healing capabilities. The synthesized PMC exhibits excellent thermal and chemical resistance, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 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.

AI researchers have developed an algorithm to determine the properties of two-dimensional materials by analyzing their defects

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to predict the properties of new 2D materials with point defects, achieving 3.7 times greater accuracy than other machine learning algorithms. The model operates 1000 times faster than quantum mechanical computations and can handle multiple defects simultaneously.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJul 18, 2023

Liquid crystals that mimic beetle shell coloration units used to create more secure type of QR code

Researchers at Nagoya University developed a method to process cholesteric liquid crystals into micrometer-sized spherical particles, creating a unique anti-counterfeiting QR code that can only be displayed under a specific circular polarizer. The use of chirality in these particles enables the creation of more secure codes with potent...

SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJul 14, 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.

Fondant: Where baking and thermodynamics mix

Researchers studied fondant creation using automated kneading machines and light microscopy, linking it to theoretical physics models. The team found that different preparation methods influence fondant structure and texture, enabling better prediction and control.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 27, 2023

Move over diamond. hBN is quantum’s new best friend.

Researchers have developed a method to stabilize the –1 state of boron vacancy defects in hBN, enabling it to replace diamond as a material for quantum sensing and quantum information processing. The team discovered unique properties of hBN and characterized its material, opening up new avenues for study.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

University of Toronto Engineering researchers are using electric fields to control the movement of defects in crystals

Researchers from University of Toronto Engineering, Dalhousie University, Iowa State University, and Peking University have successfully controlled the motion of dislocation in a single-crystalline zinc sulfide using an external electric field. This discovery has significant implications for improving the properties and manufacturing p...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 21, 2023
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.

From functional to intelligent: laser powder bed fusion additive manufactured NiTi shape memory alloys

Researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology have developed a systematic review of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF)-fabricated NiTi alloys. The study highlights the effect of process parameters on printability, mechanical properties, and functional behaviors of NiTi shape memory alloys. These findings provide evidence for...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJun 5, 2023

New study unveils nanocrystal shines on and off indefinitely

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology have made a breakthrough in creating ultra-photostable avalanching nanoparticles that can perform unlimited photoswitching. This achievement has significant implications for fields like optical probes, 3D optical memory, and super-resolution microscopy.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature·DateMay 31, 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.

Symmetry breaking by ultrashort light pulses opens new quantum pathways for coherent phonons

Researchers at Max Born Institute find that ultrafast mid-infrared excitation of electrons in bismuth reduces crystal symmetry, opening new quantum pathways for coherent phonon excitation. This leads to bidirectional atomic motions and oscillations with a frequency different from low-excitation levels.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2023

Emerging transmutation of quantum scars in photonic crystals

A team of researchers discovered a new phenomenon, 'cavity-momentum locking', which allows precise control over quantum scar states in photonic crystals. This breakthrough has significant implications for quantum information, communication, and optoelectronic devices.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2023

Quantum matter breakthrough: Tuning density waves

Researchers have made a quantum matter breakthrough by tuning density waves in a unitary Fermi gas, creating a new type of matter with extreme interactions. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of complex materials and potentially improve the development of quantum-based technologies.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2023
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.

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

Room-temperature, solid-state synthesis of high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have successfully synthesized high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films using a novel solid-state synthesis method. The team discovered that depositing CuI and CsI layers in specific ratios results in distinct local structures containing point defects, leading to highly efficient emissions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

Rensselaer researcher transforms our understanding of crystals

A Rensselaer research team led by Sangwoo Lee found that crystal structures are not always regularly arranged. The discovery has implications for materials used in semiconductors, solar panels, and electric vehicle technologies.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalSoft Matter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2023

Melts in the light, not in your hand: novel crystal compound melts under ultraviolet light

Researchers from Osaka University discovered a novel material that transitions from a crystal to a liquid when exposed to ultraviolet irradiation, enabling a detailed understanding of the crystal-melting process. The material exhibits changes in luminescence during melting, indicating molecular-level changes in shape.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2023

Picking up good vibrations – of proteins – at CHESS

A new method developed by Cornell researchers provides tools to interpret discarded X-ray crystallography data, enabling better understanding of proteins' movement, structure, and function. This breakthrough could lead to designing new drugs targeting specific proteins.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 11, 2023
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.