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Life Sciences

Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.

447,757 articles | 2542 topics

Health and Medicine

Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.

431,843 articles | 751 topics

Social Sciences

Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.

260,756 articles | 745 topics

Physical Sciences

Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.

257,913 articles | 1552 topics

Applied Sciences and Engineering

Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.

225,386 articles | 998 topics

Scientific Community

Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.

193,043 articles | 157 topics

Space Sciences

Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.

29,662 articles | 175 topics

Research Methods

Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.

21,889 articles | 139 topics

Mathematics

Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.

3,023 articles | 113 topics

Experimental atomic clock uses ytterbium 'pancakes'

Scientists at NIST have developed an experimental atomic clock using ytterbium 'pancakes' that could be more stable and accurate than current time standards. The new design holds thousands of atoms in a lattice made of intersecting laser beams, which is also applicable to other atoms with even-numbered atomic masses.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New material means 'x-ray specs' no longer required

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new transparent material that can amplify light without the need for population inversion, a fundamental property of laser technology. This breakthrough has significant implications for secure information networks, allowing for undisturbed transmission of light signals.

NIST method may help optimize light-emitting semiconductors

Researchers at JILA use a novel laser technique to study semiconductor materials, revealing correlated oscillations that can aid in predicting emission frequencies. The approach, developed for probing molecular structure, offers new insights into electronic properties of semiconductors.

Enhanced LIDAR improves range, vibration measures

Scientists at NIST have developed an improved LIDAR system using a frequency comb to measure distance and vibration with high precision. The system resolves common problems with signal noise and dispersion, enabling accurate measurements of up to 1 kilometer away.

Engineers develop smallest device to control light, advance silicon technology

A team of researchers at the University of Texas at Austin has created a miniaturized silicon chip that can control laser light, enabling faster data transfer rates in high-performance computing devices. The chip uses silicon photonic crystals to slow down light travel, allowing for modulated transmission of information.

New insights into massive black hole: UCLA astronomy

A team of researchers from UCLA has discovered a group of over 30 young stars near a supermassive black hole, contradicting the idea that such an environment should prevent star formation. The stars' orbits suggest they formed in a massive star cluster and migrated towards the black hole.

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.

Experiments help explain mysterious 'floppy' space molecule

A laboratory method has revealed new data on a mysterious 'floppy' molecule, helping explain its properties and overcoming a decades-old challenge in chemistry. The study combined experiments with theoretical predictions and enabled the analysis of cold, concentrated samples of the molecule.

'Long' distances measured with picometer accuracy

A new laser-based method for measuring millimeter distances has been developed and demonstrated by a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The technique measures frequency rather than wavelength, achieving an uncertainty of 10 picometers.

Student scientists create living bacterial photographs

Students created living bacterial photographs by projecting light onto genetically engineered E. coli bacteria, which produced pigments based on light exposure. This innovative technology has potential applications in fields such as medical treatments and tissue engineering.

The impossible is possible: Laser light from silicon

Brown University researchers have created a directly pumped silicon laser by altering its atomic structure using nanoscale drilling. The achievement opens up new possibilities for the electronics and communications industries, enabling faster and more powerful computers or fiber optic networks.

NASA'S ICESat: One billion elevations served

ICESat measures polar ice sheets, clouds, mountains, and forests with three lasers, enabling scientists to see objects in three dimensions. The Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS) instrument has fired its one billionth shot, collecting detailed information on the vertical structure of the Earth system.

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.

Quantum chaos

Scientists have found experimental evidence of quantum chaos in a system with freely dispersing components. The researchers replicated an historical experiment, demonstrating photoelectric effect and observing Ericson fluctuations.

Stanford innovation helps 'enlighten' silicon chips

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new type of silicon-based modulator that can enable high-speed light connections between chips. This innovation could pave the way for faster data transfer rates and improve performance in computing hardware.

Near infrared laser device can measure brain oxygen levels

A new near-infrared laser device can measure brain oxygen levels with high accuracy and non-invasively, providing real-time information to protect the brain from reduced oxygen levels. This technology has the potential to improve outcomes for patients undergoing cardiac surgeries.

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.

Ultrafast lasers take 'snapshots' as atoms collide

Researchers at JILA use laser pulses to take snapshots of atom collisions, revealing how atoms briefly lose form and energy when colliding. The results provide new insights into atomic dynamics and the laws of physics.

Atoms under control

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have cooled single rubidium atoms in an optical resonator for up to 17 seconds, a record-breaking achievement. This milestone demonstrates the potential of atomic manipulation for quantum computing applications.

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.

NIST/JILA fellow Jan Hall shares 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics

Jan Hall, a scientist emeritus at NIST and JILA fellow, was awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics alongside Theodor W. Hänsch for their contributions to laser-based precision spectroscopy. Their work enabled precise control of light frequencies, leading to breakthroughs in science, technology, and navigation.

Finalists in young scholars competition announced

The competition focuses on exploring innovative research in physics and astronomy, with a focus on deep discoveries about reality and technological innovations. The 18 finalists will present their research papers at a special session in October, with nine prizes awarded based on outstanding merit.

APS physics tip sheet #51

Researchers have achieved a record-breaking stop of light for over one second using electromagnetically induced transparency. A new model clarifying the mathematical basis for diversity in Darwinian evolution has been developed, suggesting that related species emerging from a common ancestor can quickly evolve in different directions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Compact JILA system stabilizes laser frequency

Researchers at NIST developed a compact, vertically mounted cavity that eliminates vibrations, allowing for stable laser light with minimal environmental disturbances. The new design outperforms previous systems in size and cost, enabling widespread adoption of precise optical technologies.

Watching the birth and death of exotic molecules

Scientists observed a chemical reaction in liquid methanol after hitting a molecule with a short laser pulse. The research confirms a long-standing hypothesis regarding the evolution of the molecule, providing new insights into chemical reactions in liquids.

New infrared tool measures silicon wafer thickness

A new NIST-developed instrument uses infrared laser light to accurately measure silicon wafer thickness, enabling precise nanoscale dimension measurements. The Improved Infrared Interferometer can produce detailed spatial maps of differences in thickness with high repeatability.

New NIST method improves accuracy of spectrometers

The NIST method corrects stray light errors in spectrometers, enabling accurate measurements of low-power radiation components and large dynamic intensity ranges. The new method has been implemented and validated using a commercial spectrograph, allowing real-time corrections without significant speed reduction.

Holographic movies show promise for medical, military applications

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a holographic video system with potential applications in medical visualization, such as improved diagnosis of ailments like heart disease. The technology also has military uses, including heads-up displays for helmets and coordinating battlefield information.

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.

Nanoscale switch links electronics to photonics

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a silicon device that can modulate light on a micrometer scale, enabling the integration of electronics and photonics. The device uses a ring resonator to filter out specific wavelengths of light, allowing for efficient switching between states.

World's first UV 'ruler' sizes up atomic world

Researchers have created a high-resolution ultraviolet light source that enables precise energy level measurements of specific atoms, timing of chemical reactions, and nanometer-scale object dimensions.

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.

Green laser pointer can cause eye damage

Mayo Clinic researchers found that green laser pointers can cause irreversible damage to the retina's pigment layer. Longer exposures and higher-powered lasers increase the risk of vision damage.

New tool reveals secrets of migrating cells

Researchers have developed a new tool that allows them to visualize cells in real-time, revealing details about their movement and behavior. The technique, called two-photon laser-scanning microscopy, has provided insights into the goal-oriented migration of activated T cells and the random wanderings of immature T cells.

Future computer: Atoms packed in an 'egg carton' of light?

Researchers have created an 'egg carton' of light with tiny holes that can contain single atoms, a crucial step towards making quantum computing more practical. The design enables faster computing than traditional chips and has potential applications in fields like astrophysics, genetics, and materials science.

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.

Terrorist-proof buildings from new high-tech sensors

Scientists have developed a new breed of fibre-optic sensors that can measure strain, detect movements, and monitor blast-waves with high accuracy. These sensors promise to revolutionize safety monitoring in various industries.

Yale researchers use laser light to remote control flies

Researchers at Yale University have developed a method to remotely control fly behavior using laser light, demonstrating a direct link between specific neurons and behaviors. The technique involves genetically engineered 'phototriggers' that respond to light pulses, allowing for non-invasive control of neural activity.

Forsyth scientists find blue light fights gum disease culprits

Researchers discovered that blue light can rapidly kill certain oral bacteria associated with periodontitis, and may restore a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth. A handheld device using this technology is being developed to combat periodontal disease.

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.

Noisy pictures tell a story of 'entangled' atoms, JILA physicists find

Researchers at JILA used noise patterns in images of ultracold potassium clouds to visualize entangled atom pairs, shedding light on a key phenomenon in quantum physics. The discovery could have implications for the development of quantum computers and highly sensitive measurement techniques.

Harvard, Texas A&M scientists develop new laser

Researchers have created a novel Raman laser that combines the pump source and material into a single device, enhancing efficiency by 30% and reducing size. The 'matryoshka' design enables tuning of the pump laser radiation to strong electronic resonance in the material, boosting gain by five orders of magnitude.

Light therapy may combat fungal infections, new evidence suggests

A new study found that light therapy, combined with anti-fungal treatments, can effectively combat various fungal infections, particularly those affecting the skin or nails. The research also sheds light on early fungal evolution and the role of light in fungal development.

X-rays have become laser-like

Austrian-German collaboration creates laser-like X-rays with a compact laboratory apparatus, breaking the nanometer barrier. The technology has the potential to improve X-ray imaging in biology and medicine, enabling early-stage cancer diagnosis at reduced risk and higher resolution.

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.

New lensless imaging technique opens door to nanoscale world

A new lensless imaging technique has been demonstrated, allowing for direct imaging of ultra-fast changes in the collective behavior of atoms and molecules at the nanoscale. The technique uses coherent X-ray light to achieve 10 times better spatial resolution than current methods.

Quantum memory for light

Researchers successfully transfer the quantum state of a light pulse onto a set of atoms, demonstrating quantum memory. The experiment achieved a 70% coincidence rate, which is higher than what can be obtained by measuring the polarization of the photons directly.

Shedding light on a microscopic world

LSU Assistant Professor Mette B. Gaarde has been awarded a National Science Foundation CAREER Award for her groundbreaking research on attosecond pulses of light. These pulses, produced in the interaction between intense laser pulses and atoms, can capture electrons as they rearrange during chemical bonding events.

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.

Scientists develop 'electronic eye' for the blind

Researchers have created a system that detects pedestrian crossings in front of a person using a single camera, measuring road width and traffic light color to ensure safe crossing. The device uses projective geometry and 'projective invariant' calculation to accurately detect crossings in images.

Ultrafast laser speeds up quest for atomic control

Researchers at JILA have developed an efficient method to measure and control atomic energy levels with extremely high accuracy. The technique uses ultrafast pulses of laser light to record in real-time the energy required to boost atoms' outer electrons, enabling fine-tuning with lower power lasers.

New transistor laser could lead to faster signal processing

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new transistor laser that can emit a narrow, coherent beam. This technology has the potential to facilitate faster signal processing, higher speed devices and large-capacity seamless communications.

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.

Designing an ultrasensitive 'optical nose' for chemicals

Physicists at NIST create an optical nose technique that can identify a single atom or molecule in gas samples with minute concentrations. The method uses infrared laser beams and mirrors to detect gases at very low pressures and varying frequencies.

Stimulating nerve cells with laser precision

Scientists at Vanderbilt University have discovered that low-intensity infrared laser light can spark specific nerves to life, exciting a leg or even individual toes without touching the nerve cells. The technique offers greater precision and accuracy than conventional electrical stimulation.

LASER technology helps track changes in Mount St. Helens

Scientists used airborne LIDAR to map the dimensions of Mount St. Helens' uplift, creating detailed models to forecast volcanic hazards. The analysis revealed 5.3 million cubic meters of volume change in the area of uplift, confirming photogrammetric measurements.

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.

Researchers guide light through liquids and gases on a chip

Scientists at UC Santa Cruz have successfully guided light waves through liquids and gases using novel waveguides made from silicon fabrication technology. The device enables detection of molecular fluorescence and has potential applications in fields such as chemistry, biology, and quantum optics.

Laser wakefield acceleration: Channeling the best beams ever

Researchers at Berkeley Lab develop a technique to channel laser-powered plasma waves, creating high-quality beams with particles over 80 MeV in energy. By optimizing plasma channel conditions and laser parameters, they achieve unprecedented beam intensity and suppress electron capture.

Researchers use semiconductors to set speed limit on light

Scientists have successfully slowed down the group velocity of light in semiconductors, achieving speeds of about 6 miles per second. This breakthrough could lead to faster optical networks and higher performance communications, enabling applications like 3-D graphics transmission and high-resolution video conferencing.

Glass semiconductor softens with low-power laser, then re-hardens

Physicists at Ohio State University discovered that a glass semiconductor softens when exposed to low-power laser light, but returns to its original hardness when the light is turned off. The material's behavior is linked to the rigidity transition and the displacement of electrons in the latticework structure.

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.

Guiding light on a nanoscale at Berkeley

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have created low-loss and highly flexible optical waveguides using semiconductor nanoribbons, which can be integrated into photonic circuits. The nanoribbon waveguides were synthesized from tin oxide and demonstrated the ability to propagate and modulate light through subwavelength optical cavities.