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In search of tinnitus, that phantom ringing in the ears

A new study reveals that tinnitus is represented differently in the brain compared to normal sounds, and that it may not be just a 'gap' left by hearing damage. The discovery could inform treatments such as neurofeedback and electromagnetic brain stimulation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 23, 2015

From metal to insulator and back again

Scientists Russell Hemley and Ivan Naumov found that certain metals transition from being metallic to insulating under pressure, and vice versa. They identified the physics framework underlying these transformations, which involves specific electron configurations and asymmetry.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 22, 2015
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.

Advances in molecular electronics: Lights on -- molecule on

Researchers at HZDR and University of Konstanz successfully switch on a single molecule using light, enabling the creation of smallest possible components. The diarylethene compound exhibits unique physical behavior, rotating minimally when open and becoming conductive when closed.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 20, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

On the road to spin-orbitronics

Researchers at Berkeley Lab found a technique to switch magnetic domain wall chirality, paving the way for desired electronic memory and logic functions. This breakthrough could lead to smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient devices through solid-state magnetic memory.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015

Computers that mimic the function of the brain

A team of Northwestern researchers has made a breakthrough in memristor technology, creating a three-terminal device that can be widely tunable. This innovation brings us closer to brain-like computing, which could revolutionize the way we process information.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 6, 2015

New kind of 'tandem' solar cell developed

Researchers have developed a new tandem solar cell that combines two types of photovoltaic material to harvest a broader range of the sun's energy. The new cell achieves an efficiency of 13.7 percent, which could be improved to over 30 percent with low-cost modifications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 24, 2015
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 technology may double radio frequency data capacity

Columbia engineers invent nanoscale IC that enables simultaneous transmission and reception at the same frequency in a wireless radio, doubling data capacity. The technology, known as full-duplex radio integrated circuits (ICs), cancels transmitter echo and enables conversations to take half the amount of time.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 13, 2015

New work schedule could cure your 'social jetlag'

Researchers report that aligning work schedules with employees' biological clocks can improve sleep duration and quality, as well as social jetlag and general wellbeing. The study found that flexible work schedules reduced stress and improved satisfaction with leisure time.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 12, 2015

Researchers synthesize new thin-film material for use in fuel cells

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new thin-film catalyst, Bi2Pt2O7 pyrochlore, which could be a more effective cathode for fuel cells. The material was synthesized using pulsed laser deposition and has shown promising properties for fuel cell applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateMar 10, 2015
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.

Solving the riddle of neutron stars

Theoretical astrophysicists discovered that gravitational waves from merging binary neutron star systems have a characteristic spectrum similar to atomic spectral lines. This allows for the inference of neutron star properties, including equation of state and stellar structure.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 10, 2015

Important step towards quantum computing: Metals at atomic scale

Researchers have found that electric current flows unimpeded through tiny channels on the surface of certain metals, reducing energy losses and enabling novel information processing techniques. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new electronic devices and quantum computing systems.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 2, 2015

Breakthrough in OLED technology

Researchers in California and Japan develop OLEDs with finely patterned structures, producing bright, low-power light sources. The key finding is confining charge transport and recombination to nanoscale areas, extending electroluminescent efficiency by almost two orders of magnitude.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 2, 2015

Researchers enable solar cells to use more sunlight

A team of researchers from the University of Luxembourg and TDK has improved a conductive oxide film to increase transparency in the infrared region, enabling solar cells to harness more sunlight. The breakthrough allows for stable films that retain conductivity after exposure to air for over a year.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateFeb 25, 2015
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.

How we know where we are

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum scientists and colleagues identifies specific brain regions responsible for spatial memory. The researchers found that suppressing irrelevant activities improves spatial navigation accuracy.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 16, 2015

Novel high-power microwave generator

A new study by scientists from Bangladesh explores the viability of a novel structure for generating high-power microwaves, offering an alternative to traditional approaches. The proposed semi-circular slow wave structure is capable of producing high-power microwaves via ultra-high-frequency radio waves.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 11, 2015

Visualizing interacting electrons in a molecule

Researchers at Aalto University and the University of Zurich have successfully imaged electron interactions in a single molecule. The study reveals exotic effects that were previously neglected, shedding light on device performance.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 26, 2015

Instant-start computers possible with new breakthrough

A team at Cornell University has developed a room-temperature magnetoelectric memory device that can switch between magnetic states using an electric field. This breakthrough could enable low-power computing and make instant-on devices a reality.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2014
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.

Debate on safety of e-cigarettes continues

A recent article collection in BMC Medicine examines the safety of e-cigarettes, with two experts offering differing views on their impact. Peter Hajek argues that e-cigarettes are orders of magnitude safer than conventional cigarettes, while Charlotta Pisinger believes they can be less harmful but still pose health risks.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateDec 8, 2014

When noise gets electrons moving

Researchers discovered a counter-intuitive current induced by sound waves in a disordered environment. Noise fluctuations lead to directed electron transport behavior and current reversal, paving the way for innovative semi-conductor devices.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 4, 2014

Notre Dame network physicists create model to predict traffic patterns

Researchers at Notre Dame designed a highly accurate traffic prediction model that considers both time-based and distance-based costs. The model outperformed previous models when predicting commuter flows, demonstrating its potential to predict the impact of network disruptions.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 2014
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.

Better bomb-sniffing technology

Researchers have created a new material that can detect explosives and toxic gases in seconds, offering four advantages over current detectors: sensitivity, accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness. The breakthrough could lead to flexible solar panels and improved public safety.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 4, 2014

New way to make batteries safer

Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to coat batteries with a special material that prevents them from conducting electricity after being swallowed. The QTC-coated batteries were found to not damage the gastrointestinal tract in animal tests, showing promise as a safer alternative.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014

Berkeley Lab study reveals molecular structure of water at gold electrodes

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have observed the molecular structure of liquid water at a gold surface under different charging conditions using XAS. The team developed a method to determine the arrangement changes of molecules depending on the voltage, shedding light on battery performance and materials science.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateOct 23, 2014

Chinese power: Challenges and R&D opportunities of smart distribution grids

The Chinese power grid is facing significant challenges in modernization, including improving asset utilization rates and integrating distributed generation. According to a recent study, the annual average utilization rates of major 10kV equipment were below 40% in 40 Chinese cities, far below comparable levels in developed countries.

SourceScience China Press·DateOct 19, 2014

Superconducting circuits, simplified

The nanocryotron device uses a single layer of niobium nitride deposited on an insulator to create a simple superconducting circuit. By controlling the flow of current through the circuit, it can act as a switch, making it a potential component for digital computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 17, 2014
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.

Ultra-fast charging batteries that can be 70 percent recharged in just 2 minutes

Scientists at NTU Singapore have created a new battery that can be recharged up to 70 percent in only 2 minutes, with a lifespan of over 20 years. This breakthrough enables electric vehicles to charge 20 times faster than current technology, reducing recharge time from over 4 hours to under 15 minutes.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 13, 2014

Observing the Birkeland currents

The study reveals two distinct stages in Earth's response to solar wind forcing, with most energy deposited in the polar atmosphere during the second stage. Researchers are working to understand a potential delay between stages, which could provide near-term warnings for space weather disruptions.

SourceWiley·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 6, 2014

Nuclear spins control current in plastic LED

Physicists at the University of Utah have developed a method to control electrical current in a cheap, plastic LED using nuclear spins. They achieved this at room temperature without strong magnetic fields, bringing the study closer to practical machines that work spintronically.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2014

Nerve impulses can collide and continue unaffected

Researchers at the Niels Bohr Institute found that nerve impulses can collide and continue unaffected, similar to how sound waves work. This supports the theory that nerves function as sound pulses, with the electrical signal being caused by a mechanical force rather than an electric current.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review X·DateSep 10, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Laser pulse turns glass into a metal

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have managed to explain how a laser pulse can change the electronic properties of glass, making it conduct electricity. The effect happens so quickly that it can be used for ultra-fast light-based electronics.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 26, 2014

Tattoo biobatteries produce power from sweat (video)

Scientists create a temporary tattoo sensor that detects and responds to lactate in sweat, producing an electrical current. The device continuously monitors sweat lactate levels over time and with changes in exercise intensity, enabling the creation of sweat-powered biobatteries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 13, 2014

Pairing old technologies with new for next-generation electronic devices

Researchers have discovered a way to efficiently generate and control currents using the magnetic nature of electrons in semi-conducting materials, which could lead to the development of new electronic devices. This approach, known as spintronics, has the potential to outperform traditional technologies with lower power consumption.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 10, 2014
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.

Physicists unlock nature of high-temperature superconductivity

Scientists have identified the underlying force of magnetism as the key to high-temperature superconductivity in cerium, cobalt, and indium. By analyzing experimental data using a novel theoretical framework, researchers successfully predicted the material's superconducting properties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2014

The world's first photonic router

Researchers have successfully demonstrated a photonic router – a quantum device based on an atom that enables routing of single photons by single photons. This achievement brings closer the goal of building quantum computers, which rely on superposition and photonic communication to process data in parallel.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJul 14, 2014

Speeding up data storage by a thousand times with 'spin current'

Researchers at TU/e Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a new technology that can store data a thousand times faster than current methods by utilizing the 'spin current' property of electrons. This innovation enables faster switch times and opens up possibilities for future optical computer chips.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2014

University of Illinois study advances limits for ultrafast nano-devices

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to generate spin currents in nanoscale devices, enabling faster operation of magnetic memory devices. The technique uses temperature differences to transport spin-angular-momentum, overcoming limitations of traditional electrical current-based methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2014

Power consumption of robot joints could be 40 perecnt less, according to a laboratory study

A laboratory study has found that taking into consideration both the current and previous orders in flexible joints can significantly reduce energy consumption. The researchers used polynomial or fractional order reconstructions, which may be of interest for robot elbows and wrists, with potential savings up to 40%.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalControl Engineering Practice·DateJul 3, 2014
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.

Scientists develop force sensor from carbon nanotubes

Researchers from Russia, Belarus and Spain create a microscopic force sensor based on carbon nanotubes, allowing accurate control over coaxial cylinders in two-layer nanotubes. The device can measure forces as small as tenths of a nN, opening up potential applications beyond micro scales.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalComputational Materials Science·DateJun 30, 2014

Watching individual neurons respond to magnetic therapy

Researchers at Duke University have developed a method to measure the response of an individual neuron to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a procedure used to treat psychiatric disorders. By recording activity from single neurons during TMS, the team gained a basic understanding of the technique's physiological mechanisms.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 29, 2014

Sequencing electric eel genome unlocks shocking secrets

The discovery of the electric eel genome sequence sheds light on the genetic blueprint used to evolve complex, novel organs. Researchers found that fishes with electric organs have evolved six times in history to produce electricity outside their bodies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014
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.

World's first magnetic hose created

The magnetic hose, made of a ferromagnetic cylinder covered by a superconductor material, efficiently transports magnetic fields. The device has potential applications in quantum computing, enabling individual control over quantum systems.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 25, 2014

Metal particles in solids aren't as fixed as they seem, new memristor study shows

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered that metal particles in memristors can migrate and form bridges between electrodes, allowing for more efficient chip design and potential advancements in memristor technology. The findings, published in Nature Communications, have broad implications for the semiconductor industry.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2014

Ferroelectric switching seen in biological tissues

University of Washington researchers have confirmed the presence of ferroelectric switching in biological tissues, particularly in proteins found in organs that repeatedly stretch and retract. This phenomenon may help build and support healthy connective tissues in mammals and potentially detect early stages of hardening of arteries.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2014

Researchers use virus to reveal nanopore physics

Scientists from Brown University used a specific type of virus to study the interaction between polymer strands like DNA and tiny holes, known as nanopores. The findings may lead to breakthroughs in DNA sequencing and pathogen detection.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2014

'Free choice' in primates altered through brain stimulation

Researchers at KU Leuven have discovered a causal link between brain activity in the ventral tegmental area and choice behavior in primates. By stimulating this area with electrical pulses, macaques were able to change their preference for images, highlighting the importance of dopamine in regulating learning and reinforcement.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 29, 2014
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.

Rice researcher rebooting 'deep brain stimulation'

A Rice University researcher is rebooting 'deep brain stimulation' technology to treat Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders. The new technique uses embedded processors and real-time analytics to optimize results, potentially increasing effectiveness for a third of patients.

SourceRice University·DateMay 27, 2014

First-of-its-kind NASA space-weather project

A NASA pilot project measures geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) in real-time, providing unprecedented data gathering and insights into Earth's upper atmosphere. The goal is to better understand GICs and their impact on the US power grid.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 23, 2014

New electric fish genus and species discovered in Brazil's Rio Negro

Researchers at UMass Amherst and INPA discovered a new genus and species of electric knifefish in the Negro River, revealing unique features such as electric organs and distinct pulse patterns. The discovery is expected to contribute to a better understanding of Amazonian biodiversity and its adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia·DateApr 22, 2014

Jump-starting natural resilience reverses stress susceptibility

Researchers found that boosting runaway neuronal activity triggers a compensatory self-stabilizing response, restoring balance and reversing depression-like behaviors. This 'homeostatic resilience' mechanism may lead to new antidepressant strategies, targeting the brain's reward circuit.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2014

Amino acid fingerprints revealed in new study

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a technique to identify amino acids, including subtly modified variants, by analyzing electrical activity signals. This breakthrough advances the prospect of clinical protein sequencing and discovery of new biomarkers for diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 6, 2014
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.

Power play: Empowered consumers are more likely to switch brands

A study found that consumers who feel powerful are more inclined to switch products or services. Brands can benefit by measuring consumer empowerment and diversifying their product lines. Empowering consumers through marketing campaigns can also lead to increased business.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 11, 2014
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.