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Redrawing the lines: Growing inexpensive, high-quality iron-based superconductors

Researchers at Nagoya University developed a scalable method to produce high-temperature superconductors with artificial pinning centers, improving their properties. The technique, known as grain boundary engineering, can help develop stronger, inexpensive, and high operating temperature superconductors.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNPG Asia Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

UMass Lowell scientist pioneers new class of semiconductors

A new class of faster and more powerful semiconductors is being developed by UMass Lowell scientists to enhance wireless communication and digital imaging. The $1.7M NSF project aims to improve infrared optoelectronic devices, enabling better intracellular imaging, night vision, and quantum and 5G communication.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateDec 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New device advances commercial viability of solar fuels

A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021

New version of organic electronics for rational management of energy

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed a new version of organic electronics that can manage energy consumption more efficiently. The technology, known as spintronics, uses carbon-based molecules to expand electronic material versatility and functionality.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Thermoelectric crystal conductivity reaches a new high

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a Ta2PdSe6 crystal with an unprecedented large Peltier conductivity, reaching 100 A cm^-1 K^-1 at 10 K. The team attributes this to the high mobility and low concentration of holes within the crystal.

SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of Physics Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
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.

ECL emission of methamphetamine for accurate detection

Researchers at Shinshu University developed a novel detection principle for stimulants, including methamphetamine, using electrochemiluminescence (ECL) emission. The method allows for accurate and selective screening of stimulants with high sensitivity and selectivity.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021

New technique improves conversion of carbon dioxide into liquid fuels

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Harnessing Thor’s Hammer -- How forensic science is unlocking the mysteries of fatal lightning strikes

Researchers developed a tool to investigate cause of death when skeletonised remains are recovered, providing a breakthrough in forensic lightning pathology. The study identified unique markers of lightning damage deep within the human skeleton, allowing for recognition of lightning strikes even when only dry bone survives.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalForensic Science International Synergy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 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.

Broadband spintronic-metasurface terahertz emitters with tunable chirality

Researchers developed a novel spintronic-metasurface terahertz emitter that generates broadband, circularly polarized, and coherent terahertz waves. The design offers flexible manipulation of the polarization state and helicity with magnetic fields, enabling efficient generation and control of chiral terahertz waves.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Seven ORNL technologies win R&D 100 research awards

Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative technologies in self-healing sealants, precision deicers and quantum-enabled grid security. These breakthroughs aim to improve construction materials, reduce waste in road maintenance and enhance power grid protection.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateOct 22, 2021

Plugging into ocean waves with a flexible, seaweed-like generator (video)

Researchers have developed a flexible triboelectric nanogenerator that mimics the movement of seaweed to efficiently convert surface and underwater waves into electricity. The device has been shown to generate power even at low water pressures, making it suitable for powering marine sensors in coastal zones.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 20, 2021

Unmasking the magic of superconductivity in twisted graphene

Researchers discovered a resemblance between magic graphene's superconductivity and high-temperature superconductors, shedding light on the mysterious ceramic compounds. The study provides evidence for unconventional superconductivity in magic bilayer graphene.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

NIST, collaborators develop sensitive new way of detecting transistor defects

Researchers developed a sensitive new way to detect and count transistor defects, which limit performance and reliability. The method works with traditional Si and SiC materials, identifying defect type and number with simple DC measurement.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 8, 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.

Scientists get closer to creating an efficient solid-state lithium battery

Researchers at Ural Federal University successfully experimentally determined the optimal thickness of an aluminum layer in a fully solid-state lithium power source. The results will be used to create high-energy batteries with increased operational safety and lower production costs.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalSolid State Ionics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Fabricating MgB2 superconductors using spark plasma sintering and pulse magnetization

New research from Shibaura Institute of Technology reveals that spark plasma sintering produces highly dense MgB2 bulks with improved mechanical and superconducting properties. The resulting samples exhibit superior strengths and high trapped field performance, making them suitable for space applications and electric machines.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering B·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021

The first glimpse of hydrodynamic electron flow in 3D materials

A team of researchers from Harvard and MIT observed hydrodynamic electron flow in three-dimensional tungsten ditelluride for the first time using a new imaging technique. The findings provide a promising avenue for exploring non-classical fluid behavior in hydrodynamic electron flow, such as steady-state vortices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 2021
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.

Russian researchers present ultra-precise brain imaging tool

A team from the Russian Quantum Center developed a novel solid-state supersensitive room-temperature magnetometer capable of registering weak electrical sources in the brain. The device successfully detected alpha rhythm, a sinusoidal electric current in the back of the brain, and showed higher sensitivity than existing systems.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

‘Missing jigsaw piece’: engineers make critical advance in quantum computer design

Quantum engineers at the University of New South Wales have discovered a new technique to control millions of spin qubits, a critical step towards building a practical quantum computer. This breakthrough uses a novel component called a dielectric resonator to focus microwave power and deliver uniform magnetic fields across the chip.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

Magneto-thermal imaging brings synchrotron capabilities to the lab

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method of magneto-thermal imaging that provides nanoscale and picosecond resolution, previously available only in synchrotron facilities. This innovation enables the study of magnetic properties of materials at unprecedented scales.

SourceCornell University·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 23, 2021

A more robust memory device for AI systems

Researchers developed a new magnetic memory device using antiferromagnetic materials, offering improved scalability, write speed, and security. The device's unique structure allows for simultaneous writing and reading of data, addressing key challenges in high-performance AI applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 2021
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.

Changing a 2D material's symmetry can unlock its promise

Scientists from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have successfully created a novel optoelectronic phenomenon in MoS2 by breaking its inversion symmetry using strain gradients. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential for remote thermal sensing and opens up new possibilities for designing high-efficiency optoelectronics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 17, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tiny particles power chemical reactions

Researchers at MIT have discovered a new way of generating electricity using tiny carbon particles that can create a current simply by interacting with liquid surrounding them. This technology allows for electrochemistry without wires, enabling applications such as powering micro- or nanoscale robots and driving chemical reactions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

New research in protein sequencing poised to transform medicine

A new overview article explores innovative strategies for protein sequencing at the single-cell and single-molecule level, enabling critical insights into cell-to-cell variation in organs and tissues. This breakthrough may lead to routine clinical applications for diagnostic and treatment purposes, fulfilling personalized medicine.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 7, 2021

Electromagnetic anomalies that occur before an earthquake

A joint research project by Shinshu University and Genesis Research Institute found that electromagnetic anomalies occur before earthquakes due to gas-electric interactions. The anomalies are caused by the trapping of fluid in a fault-valve, which eventually cracks and releases charged gas, generating a large current.

SourceShinshu University·DateMay 24, 2021

TPU scientists: Effective application of power transformers to reduce cost of electrical energy

The researchers developed a new method for assessing the loading capacity of power transformers, taking into account temperature fluctuations. The study found that using this method, operators can control power systems with higher transfer capabilities, postponing investments in replacing transformers and allowing end-users to use chea...

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalInternational Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems·DateMay 19, 2021
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.

New neuroelectronic system can read and modify brain circuits

A Columbia University team designed a high-performance implantable system that can read and modify brain signals, suppressing pathological coupling in epileptic animal models. The multiplex-then-amplify (MTA) system enables simultaneous stimulation of arbitrary waveforms on multiple independent channels.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2021

Towards 2D memory technology by magnetic graphene

Researchers have experimentally confirmed that magnetic graphene can generate large spin signals and transfer spin information over long distances. This discovery paves the way for the development of ultra-compact 2D spin-logic devices with strong spin-polarization, promising high-speed and energy-saving electronics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 6, 2021

Scientists at NREL report new synapse-like phototransistor

Researchers created a new type of phototransistor using metal-halide perovskites, exhibiting persistent photoconductivity that mimics synapses in the brain. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient energy usage in computers and sensors for self-driving vehicles.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 4, 2021

Researchers analyzed circulating currents inside gold nanoparticles

A new method facilitates accurate analysis of magnetic field effects in complex nanostructures, enabling quantitative criteria for aromaticity. The technique sheds light on unexplained experimental results regarding magnetic shielding inside particles.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 30, 2021
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.

A neuromagnetic view through the skull

A team of researchers has successfully developed a highly sensitive magnetoencephalography (MEG) technology that can detect even fast brain oscillations produced in response to single sensory stimuli. This breakthrough enables noninvasive observation of nerve cells transmitting information, shedding light on factors such as alertness a...

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2021

Researchers harvest energy from radio waves to power wearable devices

Researchers have developed a way to harvest energy from radio waves to power wearable devices, offering a sustainable and continuous energy source. The system consists of stretchable metal antennas that convert ambient radio waves into electricity, which can be used to power health-monitoring sensors.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaterials Today Physics·DateMar 25, 2021

Algorithms inspired by social networks reveal lifecycle of substorms, a key element of space weather

Researchers at the University of Warwick used social media-inspired algorithms to analyze space weather observations and reveal the lifecycle of substorms. The study shows that these substorms manifest as global-scale electrical current systems associated with the aurora, covering most of the Earth's night-side at high latitudes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021
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.

Artificial neuron device could shrink energy use and size of neural network hardware

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a nanoscale artificial neuron device that efficiently carries out activation functions in hardware, reducing computing power and circuitry. The device, which implements the rectified linear unit activation function, can process images and perform edge detection with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 18, 2021

Solar cells: Losses made visible on the nanoscale

Researchers used conductive atomic force microscopy to detect tiny channels for dark currents in solar cell surfaces, revealing the loss mechanism at the interface of silicon heterojunction solar cells. The study showed that these channels are caused by disorder in the a-Si:H layer and lead to trap-assisted quantum mechanical tunnelling.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMar 17, 2021

Spontaneous superconducting currents in Sr2RuO4

Researchers have found spontaneous electrical currents in Sr2RuO4, a rare form of superconductivity that can't be switched off. The study used muon implantation to detect these currents, which appear when the material becomes superconducting.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 16, 2021
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.

How to prevent short-circuiting in next-gen lithium batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to prevent dendrite formation in solid-state lithium batteries, potentially unlocking the potential of high-powered batteries. The team created a semisolid electrode with a self-healing surface, allowing for high current densities without dendrites.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 16, 2021

Microchips of the future: Suitable insulators are still missing

Researchers at TU Wien found that thin hBN layers cause excessive leakage currents in miniaturised transistors, making it unsuitable as a gate insulator. The study suggests a need to search for alternative insulator materials to revolutionize the semiconductor industry.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 9, 2021

Amination strategy improves efficiency of CO2 electrocatalytic reduction

Researchers developed a two-step amination strategy to enhance the intrinsic activity of M-N/C catalysts, leading to improved current density and Faraday efficiency. The new method enabled CO2 electrocatalytic reduction at an industrial level, with a remarkable current density of over 400 mA cm−2.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·DateFeb 19, 2021
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.

The mass of Cygnus X-1's black hole challenges stellar evolution models

A new study using the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) has refined the distance to Cygnus X-1 and found its black hole mass to be approximately 21 solar masses, exceeding current stellar evolution models. This massive black hole suggests that lower mass loss through stellar winds during progenitor star evolution may have occurred.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2021

A new quantum switch for electronics

Researchers have discovered a promising mechanism to create nanoelectronics components by reducing current to zero in quantum point contacts. The discovery uses external oscillating fields and provides evidence of non-equilibrium phase transitions, enabling precise control of charge transport.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateFeb 11, 2021

Deepfake detectors can be defeated, computer scientists show for the first time

Researchers showed that deepfake detectors can be defeated by inserting inputs called adversarial examples into every video frame, which cause AI systems to make mistakes. The attack still works after videos are compressed. Key findings include high success rates of over 99% for uncompressed and 84.96% for compressed videos.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 8, 2021

A single-molecule guide to understanding chemical reactions better

Researchers use a scanning tunneling microscope to study DNA hybridization, monitoring changes in electronic properties of single molecules. They discovered plateaus in current traces indicating the formation of double-stranded DNA, providing new insights into chemical reactions and potential applications for DNA-based diagnoses.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 4, 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.

Synthesizing valuable chemicals from contaminated soil

Researchers at Mainz University have developed an electrolysis process to produce dichloro and dibromo compounds from contaminated soil, reducing the need for toxic chlorine and bromine. The method is broadly applicable, easy to scale up, and can even separate chlorine atoms from banned insecticides.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2021

Secrets of traumatic stress hidden in the brain are exposed

A recent study using Cereset's HIRREM technology found significant effects on brain network connectivity in military personnel with traumatic stress. The results support the bihemispheric autonomic management model and suggest that regulated connections between hemispheres are associated with improved health and wellbeing.

SourceCereset·JournalJournal of Neuroimaging·DateJan 27, 2021

Highly efficient grid-scale electricity storage at fifth of cost

Researchers at WMG University of Warwick have developed a highly efficient hybrid flow battery technology that can store electricity for long durations at about 1/5 the cost of current systems. This breakthrough enables flexible and zero-emission grid-scale energy storage, making it ideal for widespread commercial adoption.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 22, 2021

Scientists streamline process for controlling spin dynamics

Scientists have successfully controlled spin dynamics in magnetic materials using a technique called resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. By studying thin films of iron as thin as one nanometer, researchers discovered that the thickness of magnetic materials can act as a 'knob' for fine-tuning spin dynamics.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 18, 2021
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.

Perceiving prosthesis as lighter thanks to neurofeedback

Researchers have developed neurofeedback prostheses that restore sensory feedback to amputees, enabling them to perceive their prosthetic leg as lighter and reducing the effort required for walking. The study found a 23% reduction in perceived weight and improved motor-cognitive tasks, suggesting a more natural limb experience.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2021