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Watch nanoparticles grow into crystals

For the first time, scientists have observed nanoparticles forming crystals with unprecedented clarity. The study used optimized liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy to capture the self-assembly process of thousands of nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to designing new materials for electronic applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New simulation reveals secrets of exotic form of electrons called polarons

Researchers have developed a new simulation method to study polarons in 2D materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in OLED TVs and hydrogen fuel production. The study uses quantum mechanical theory and computation to determine the fundamental properties of polarons in 2D materials.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023

Corralling ions improves viability of next generation solar cells

Channeling ions into grain boundaries in perovskite materials improves the stability and operational performance of perovskite solar cells, paving the way for more efficient and practical solar cell technologies. This breakthrough finding may also inform the development of more efficient energy storage technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 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.

MU researcher studies childhood obesity prevention programs in rural schools

A recent study by Crystal Lim found that obesity prevention programs combining nutrition and exercise components over an extended period had the most success in changing students' daily behaviors. Successful programs also included evidence-based strategies like goal setting, problem solving, and self-regulation techniques.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJBI Evidence Synthesis·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 9, 2023

Princeton researchers reveal microscopic quantum correlations of ultracold molecules

Princeton researchers have achieved a major breakthrough by microscopically studying molecular gases at a level never before achieved. The team cooled molecules to ultracold temperatures, observed individual molecules with high spatial resolution, and detected subtle quantum correlations, opening up new avenues for many-body physics re...

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2023

Scientists enable thinnest quantum light source by new 2D layered materials

Researchers have developed a van der Waals crystal featuring monolayer-like excitonic behavior in bulk form, leading to a verified weak interlayer electronic coupling. The crystal enables a spontaneous parametric down-conversion process, resulting in a detection of one photon heralding the presence of another.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature·DateJan 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.

Improving perovskite solar cell resistance to degradation

Researchers identify the (100) facet as prone to degradation, while the (111) facet is more stable and resistant to moisture and heat. By using facet engineering, they develop strategies to grow the stable (111) facet, leading to exceptionally stable perovskite films.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2023

Researchers succeeded in developing a light source that produced two entangled light beams

Scientists successfully created a light source that produced two entangled light beams using rubidium atoms. The entanglement was achieved by adding new detection steps to measure the quantum correlations in the amplitudes and phases of the fields generated, enabling applications in quantum computing, encryption, and metrology.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 3, 2023

Understand anisotropy dependence of damage evolution and material removal during nanoscratch of MgF2 single crystals

The study investigates the anisotropy dependence of damage evolution and material removal behaviors in ultra-precision machining of MgF2 single crystals. The research team developed a stress field model, revealing that plastic deformation and cleavage fracture mechanisms were activated depending on the crystal orientation.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 12, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

A crystal shape conundrum is finally solved

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to predict the shapes of crystals that lack symmetry by assigning arbitrary latent energies to their surfaces. This approach uses closure equations with arbitrary parameters to mimic nature's solution, allowing for accurate crystal shape predictions.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 28, 2022

New quantum phase discovered for developing hybrid materials

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered a unique phase transition in crystals that combines crystalline and amorphous characteristics. This finding has significant implications for developing hybrid materials with improved properties for use in extreme environments, such as outer space.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2022

Researchers uncover how to 3D-print one of the strongest stainless steels

A team of researchers from NIST, UW-Madison, and Argonne National Laboratory identified key compositions that enable consistent 3D-printing of 17-4 PH stainless steel with favorable properties. The new findings could help producers cut costs and increase manufacturing flexibility.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateSep 22, 2022
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.

IU to lead NSF-funded center focused on transforming nanocrystal research

A multi-institution team led by IU chemist Sara Skrabalak has been awarded $1.8 million to establish a research center focused on rapidly identifying and leveraging the unique properties of nanocrystals. The Center for Single-Entity Nanochemistry and Nanocrystal Design aims to transform how researchers think about nanocrystal diversity...

SourceIndiana University·DateSep 21, 2022

Boosting performance with a dash of rock salt

Scientists have found a novel structure in bismuth oxychloride, featuring a sextuple Bi-O layer composed of rock-salt and fluorite units, which enhances photocatalytic activity. This discovery could lead to improved hydrogen production material designs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2022

Tiny crystal vases

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba developed a method to produce uniform, hollow vessel-shaped crystals through spontaneous crystal growth. The crystals have hexagonal symmetry and can be used as tiny containers for nanotechnology experiments.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2022
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.

Racial and sex disparities in the prevalence of gout among US adults

Researchers found gout is more prevalent among Black adults in the US compared to White adults, with differences attributed to factors like poverty and body mass index. The study used nationally representative data from 2007-2016 and suggests that culturally sensitive efforts could help reduce disparities.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 15, 2022

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

The emergence of form: New study expands horizons for DNA nanotechnology

A new study explores the characteristics of 36 basic variants of the Holliday junction, a fundamental building block used in DNA nanoforms. The results show that sequences forming the four protruding arms of the junction can enhance or hinder crystallization processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 28, 2022
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.

Spinning is key for line-dancing electrons in iron selenide

A team of researchers used resonant inelastic X-ray scattering to study the behavior of electron spins in iron selenide, a material that exhibits directionally-dependent electronic behavior. They found that high-energy spin excitations are dispersive and undamped, indicating a well-defined energy-versus-momentum relationship.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers demonstrate organic crystals can serve as energy converters for emerging technologies

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered that organic crystals can efficiently convert energy, meeting the needs of advanced technologies such as soft robotics and artificial muscles. The material's ability to expand and contract repeatedly without deterioration makes it suitable for applications in electronics.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 2022

Researchers unveil a secret of stronger metals

Scientists have found a novel pathway for forming smaller crystals in metals, leading to improved strength and toughness. By bombarding metal surfaces with tiny particles at high speeds, researchers increased copper's strength about tenfold.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 20, 2022

Lasers trigger magnetism in atomically thin quantum materials

Researchers discovered that light can trigger magnetism in normally nonmagnetic materials by aligning electron spins. This breakthrough could enable the development of quantum bits for quantum computing and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022
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.

Discovered: An easier way to create "flexible diamonds"

A team of scientists led by Samuel Dunning has developed an original technique to predict and guide the ordered creation of strong, yet flexible, diamond nanothreads. The innovation allows for easier synthesis of the material, which has potential applications in space elevators, ultra-strong fabrics, and other fields.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2022

Spintronics: Innovative crystals for future computer electronics

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have grown crystals with rare-earth atoms that exhibit surprising fast magnetic properties. The team found that the strength of these reactions can be adjusted by choosing different atoms, opening up possibilities for optimizing spintronics components.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Towards high-performance organic optoelectronics with better crystallinity at semiconductor interface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a high-quality crystalline interface using quasi-homo-epitaxial growth, which eliminated mobility issues and enabled spontaneous electron transfer. This breakthrough could lead to highly efficient flexible solar cells and wearable electronic devices.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Some polycrystal grain boundaries feel the heat more than others

The study found that certain grain boundaries in strontium titanate exhibit enhanced thermal expansion, leading to potential material failures. This discovery highlights the importance of grain boundaries in material properties and has implications for selecting suitable materials for various applications.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 2, 2021

Mobile molecular robots swim in water

Researchers have created a microcrystal that utilizes self-continuous reciprocating motion for propulsion, enabling the microrobot to move itself sustainably in water. The microrobots exhibited different styles of propulsion and were affected by fin length, ratio, and elevation angle.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2021

New ultrahard diamond glass synthesized

Researchers have synthesized a new form of carbon glass with three-dimensional bonds, the hardest known glass material. The discovery has potential for mass production and opens up new possibilities in devices and electronics.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021
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.

After 70 years, advanced carbon-based magnetic material finally synthesized

Osaka University researchers have successfully synthesized a stable, crystalline nanographene with predicted magnetic properties, opening the door to revolutionary advances in electronics and magnets. The breakthrough uses a simplified model system called triangulene, which has long been elusive due to polymerization issues.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Ultra-large single-crystal WS2 monolayer

Researchers develop new epitaxial growth mechanism to achieve large-scale single-crystal WS2 monolayers, overcoming a crucial hurdle in replacing silicon with 2D materials. The technique enables uniform alignment of small crystals and leads to the successful growth of wafer-scale single-crystals of WS2, MoS2, WSe2, and MoSe2.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

A sustainable revolution for drugs, agriculture and food industry of the future: Cryform project starts at the Politecnico di Torino

The CryForm project aims to replace synthetic stabilizing agents with crystalline materials, enabling innovative multiphase formulations for safer, more sustainable and affordable products. The project will develop biocompatible crystals for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food applications, contributing to the European Green Deal.

SourcePolitecnico di Torino·DateNov 5, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Chemists discover faster-acting forms of insecticide imidacloprid

Scientists at New York University have developed seven new crystal forms of the insecticide imidacloprid, which work up to nine times faster than the original version. The new forms enable the control of disease-carrying mosquitoes in smaller amounts and with reduced environmental impact.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 12, 2021

A simple way to get complex semiconductors to assemble themselves

Researchers developed a simple and fast way to create complex semiconductors by growing 2D perovskites precisely layered with other materials, resulting in crystals with wide electronic properties. The assembly takes place in vials where chemical ingredients tumble around in water, with barbell-shaped molecules directing the action.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021
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.

New opportunities for light-powered battery and fuel cell design

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have discovered that ultraviolet light can modulate oxide ion transport in a perovskite crystal at room temperature. This enables the enhancement of future battery and fuel cell functionality by increasing energy storage and output efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateSep 8, 2021

Physicists find room-temperature, 2D-to-1D topological transition

Researchers have discovered a room-temperature transition between 1D and 2D electrical conduction states in topological crystals of bismuth and iodine. The material's electronic behavior changes at a transition temperature around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2021

High-quality crystals reveal new physics of topological insulators

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have produced large, high-quality bismuth iodide crystals that demonstrate the existence of weak topological insulators. The crystals undergo a phase transition into a novel structure at room temperature, altering their electronic properties.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2021

Siddha Pimputkar recognized for early-career success in crystal growth

Siddha Pimputkar, an assistant professor at Lehigh University, has received the American Association for Crystal Growth (AACG) Young Scientist Award for his outstanding contributions to crystal growth. His research focuses on synthesizing bulk and thin-film single-crystal nitrogen-containing materials.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 2, 2021
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.

Dancing with the light: A new way to make crystals bend by shining light

Researchers at Waseda University have developed a novel mechanism for inducing high-speed bending in thick crystals using the photothermal effect, enabling rapid actuation and simulation. This breakthrough has significant implications for flexible robotics, actuators, and soft robotics.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021

Sapphires show their true colors: Not water-loving

Researchers found that sapphire crystal faces exhibit contact angles far greater than 10°, with the (1-102) face being hydrophobic. This discovery provides insights into intrinsic wettability and its potential applications in materials science and technology.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 10, 2020

How a crystalline sponge sheds water molecules

Scientists used dynamic in-situ x-ray diffraction to observe how a crystalline sponge changed shape as it lost water molecules. The study found that one water molecule leaves quickly, causing the crystal lattice to compress and twist, while the other two molecules leave together.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalStructural Dynamics·DateJul 29, 2020
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.

Researchers map protein motion

Cornell structural biologists develop a new method to capture collective protein motion, revealing subtle breathing motions that direct biochemical function. The technique adds valuable information to regular crystallography experiments.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 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.

How to trick electrons to see the hidden face of crystals

Scientists at the University of Vienna developed two solutions to overcome limitations in analyzing small crystals with electron radiation. By disturbing the carrier material or covering it with nylon fibers, researchers can achieve a complete 3D view of the crystals, enabling more accurate structure analysis.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 25, 2019

Samarium-doped crystals with 'giant' piezoelectricity

Researchers introduce trace amounts of samarium into PMN-PT crystals, significantly enhancing their piezoelectric properties. The results show nearly double the performance of traditional materials.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019
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.

Scientists track patterns of island growth in crystals

Researchers have discovered a persistent pattern in the arrangement of islands that form on crystal surfaces during layer-by-layer growth. The study uses coherent X-ray scattering to reveal correlations across the sample, providing insights into crystal growth dynamics and potential applications in materials science.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 14, 2019

Scientists achieve the first stable simulations of DNA crystals

Researchers at IRB Barcelona achieved the first stable simulations of DNA crystals, providing detailed atomic descriptions of their properties. This accomplishment allows for optimized crystallization conditions and protocols for biophysicists and computational physicists/chemists.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalChem·DateJan 21, 2019