Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Exploring light neutron-rich nuclei: First observation of oxygen-28

Researchers have observed the decay of two neutron-rich isotopes, oxygen-28 and oxygen-27, providing new insights into nuclear structure. The study's findings suggest that these isotopes do not exhibit a closed shell structure, challenging current theories and offering opportunities for further investigation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2023

Ringing protons give insight into early universe

Researchers explore nucleon resonances, gaining insight into early universe's chaotic state. The experiment provides new information on the 3D structure of resonating protons and neutrons.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 21, 2023

Neutrons seek to stop cancer from hijacking a metabolic highway

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new cancer treatments that target the metabolic pathway hijacked by cancer cells. Using neutrons and x-rays, researchers mapped the enzyme structure to design roadblocks along the pathway.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals long-debated makeup of the molecules that help organize your cells

A new study from the University of Chicago has laid out the internal structure of polyelectrolyte complexes, a special kind of molecular assembly that helps cells keep themselves organized. The researchers used a combination of simulations and neutron scattering to determine the precise structure of these molecules, which could lead to...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2023

Efficient boron neutron capture therapy for brain tumor with novel boron carrier

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel boron agent that selectively accumulates in brain tumor cells, exhibits enhanced blood retention, and can be administered at low doses. The agent, PBC-IP, shows promising results in preclinical studies, highlighting its potential for radiotherapy in treating glioblastoma.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2023

Mystery of microgels solved

Soft particles called microgels can shrink abruptly when their concentration in a solvent is increased above a certain threshold, even without physical contact. Researchers have provided experimental proof of this phenomenon using neutrons from the Paul Scherrer Institute's SINQ spallation source.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

USTC explored gravity's effect on quantum spins

A joint USTC research group investigated the coupling effect between neutron spin and gravitational force using a high-precision xenon isotope magnetometer. The experimental results revealed that the weight difference between the neutron's spin-up and spin-down states was less than two sextillionths.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Fractons as information storage: Not yet quite tangible, but close

Researchers have modeled fractons, stationary quasiparticles, and found they are not visible even at absolute zero temperature due to quantum fluctuations. The team plans to develop a model to regulate these fluctuations, paving the way for experimental materials that could exhibit fractons.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 26, 2023

Neutron star’s X-rays reveal ‘photon metamorphosis’

A Cornell astrophysicist explains how the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) satellite detected polarized X-rays from a magnetar, revealing 'photon metamorphosis' – a transformation of X-ray photons. The phenomenon is a natural consequence of quantum electrodynamics under strong magnetic field conditions.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2023

Squeezing data from a diamond sandwich

Researchers have developed software to remove signal interference from neutron experiments under megabar pressures. This enables the accurate extraction of data on extraordinary atomic structures of materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 3, 2023
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.

Discovering hidden order in disordered crystals

A new material analysis method combines resonant X-ray diffraction and solid-state NMR to reveal the chemical order of Mo atoms in disordered Ba7Nb4MoO20. The study provides valuable insights into how a material's properties, such as ion conduction, are influenced by its hidden chemical order.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Teasing strange matter from the ordinary

Researchers have made the first-ever observations of how lambda particles, a form of strange matter, are produced by a specific process called semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS). The study reveals that diquarks, pairs of quarks and gluons, can march through atomic nuclei, contributing to the formation of lambdas.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023
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.

Scientists map gusty winds in a far-off neutron star system

Scientists have created the first 2D map of wind patterns around a neutron star, revealing clues to galaxy formation. The map shows the wind's vertical structure and velocity, which is about 1 million miles per hour, and offers new insights into the influence of disk winds on galaxy evolution.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 10, 2023

Solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries: Neutrons unveil sluggish charge transport

Researchers observed lithium ions wandering within composite cathodes, revealing limitations in ion delivery that affect battery performance. The findings suggest a previously overlooked development bottleneck for solid-state battery development, highlighting the need to enhance ion transport within cathode composites.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

Imaging the proton with neutrinos

Researchers have made the first accurate image of the proton using neutrinos instead of light as the probe in the MINERvA experiment. The study provides measurements of the proton's structure with unbound protons, helping to build more complete theories of neutrino interactions.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023

New “camera” with shutter speed of 1 trillionth of a second sees through dynamic disorder of atoms

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new 'camera' that can see atomic structures in real-time, revealing the dynamic disorder of materials. This breakthrough enables better understanding of thermoelectric devices and waste heat conversion, leading to more efficient sustainable energy applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 7, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Neutrons reveal key to extraordinary heat transport

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory used neutrons to map phason and phonon vibrations in fresnoite crystals. They found that phasons carry heat three times faster than phonons, which may improve the accuracy of simulations for energy materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 23, 2023

Astral alchemy

Scientists successfully synthesized the elusive Λ(1405) particle and measured its complex mass, revealing a temporary bound state of a K- meson and proton. The findings may provide insights into the interior of ultra-dense neutron stars and the early formation of the Universe.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Nuclear popcorn: Heavy nucleus changes shapes at different energies

Researchers studied the strong nuclear force using nickel-64 nuclei, discovering that they change shapes under high-energy conditions. The team used advanced detectors to analyze gamma rays and particle direction, revealing two possible shapes for the nucleus: oblate and prolate.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review C·DateNov 30, 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.

New quantum tool developed in groundbreaking experimental achievement

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have developed a device that generates twisted neutrons with well-defined orbital angular momentum, enabling researchers to study next-generation quantum materials. The discovery provides an additional quantized degree of freedom for characterizing complicated materials.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 21, 2022

FRIB experiment pushes elements to the limit

Researchers measured the half-lives of five exotic isotopes at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), a DOE Office of Science user facility. The study provides fundamental information about nuclei near their limits of existence, testing models of the atomic world and advancing research in astrophysics and nuclear physics.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 2022

Black holes don’t always power gamma-ray bursts, new research shows

According to new research led by the University of Bath, some short-duration gamma-ray bursts are triggered by the birth of supramassive stars, not black holes. This discovery may offer a new way to locate neutron star mergers and gravitational wave emitters.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 11, 2022

As dense as it gets: New model for matter in neutron star collisions

Researchers have developed a new model that combines nuclear physics and string theory to describe the transition to dense and hot quark matter in neutron star collisions. The model allows for the calculation of gravitational-wave signals, showing that both hot and cold quark matter can be produced.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2022

Revealing the mysteries of the universe under the skin of an atomic nucleus

A breakthrough computer model from Chalmers University of Technology reveals the properties of an atomic nucleus, providing insights into the strong force that governs neutron star behavior. The model predicts a surprisingly thin neutron skin, which could lead to increased understanding of heavy element creation in neutron stars.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2022
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.

Dynamics in one-dimensional spin chains newly elucidated

A team led by Prof. Alan Tennant and Dr Allen Scheie gain deeper insights into the interactions between spins in KCuF3, a simple model material for Heisenberg quantum spin chain. They use neutron scattering to study spatial and temporal evolution of spins.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2022

Peering into mirror nuclei, physicists see unexpected pairings

A new experiment at Jefferson Lab found that proton-proton and neutron-neutron collisions were responsible for roughly 20% of all collisions, surprising previous measurements which showed a much smaller share. The discovery improves the precision of previous measurements by a factor of ten.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 31, 2022

Particles pick pair partners differently in small nuclei

A high-precision experiment reveals that protons and neutrons in small nuclei prefer to pair up with others of the same kind more often than expected. The study provides new details about short-distance interactions between particles and may impact results from experiments seeking to tease out further nuclear structure details.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022
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.

Story tips: Drought-resistant crops, hydropower, AI for atomic measurement, controlling refrigerants and recycling e-waste

Researchers at ORNL developed a theory that thylakoids help plants tolerate harsh conditions, while a digital platform informs on hydropower development. AI-powered neutron scattering can also accelerate experiments, and e-waste recycling is being explored.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

Johns Hopkins APL assembles first global map of lunar hydrogen

Scientists from Johns Hopkins APL have compiled the first complete map of hydrogen abundances on the Moon's surface using data collected over two decades ago. The map identifies two types of lunar materials containing enhanced hydrogen and corroborates previous ideas about lunar hydrogen and water.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 20, 2022

A quantum wave in two crystals

A team of scientists has successfully built a neutron interferometer using two separate crystals, a major breakthrough in quantum physics. This achievement opens up new possibilities for quantum measurements and research on quantum effects in a gravitational field.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Crystallography·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022
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.

From nuclei to neutron stars

Devi Lal Adhikari's thesis explores mathematical connections between atomic nuclei and neutron stars, shedding light on the structure of both. His research has garnered significant attention from astrophysicists and physicists alike.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 12, 2022

Found: The ‘holy grail of catalysis’ — turning methane into methanol under ambient conditions using light

Researchers have developed a novel process converting methane into liquid methanol at ambient temperature and pressure using visible light. The method uses a continuous flow of methane/oxygen-saturated water over a novel metal-organic framework (MOF) catalyst, achieving 100% selectivity with no by-products.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Physicists confront the neutron lifetime puzzle

Scientists attempt to detect a 'mirror neutron', a dark-matter twin to the neutron, to explain discrepancy in neutron lifetime experiments. The team used a novel disappearance and regeneration technique to perform the first search for oscillations between regular and mirror neutron states.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2022

Long sought-after particle consisting of four neutrons discovered

A research team from TU Darmstadt observed a neutral nucleus, the Tetra Neutron, consisting of four neutrons. The discovery provides a new system to test the nuclear force with pure neutrons, offering insights into neutron-star properties.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022
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.

Water distribution in the fuel cell made visible in 4D

Researchers have used high-speed 4D neutron computed tomography to visualize the three-dimensional water distribution within fuel cells. This allows for optimized channel design and increased efficiency, as excess water can be drained without compromising membrane integrity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2022

Time crystals “impossible” but obey quantum physics

Researchers successfully created a two-body time-crystal system in an experiment that challenges our understanding of physics. They also found that time crystals can be used to build useful devices at room temperature, opening up new possibilities for quantum computing.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2022

One particle on two paths: Quantum physics is right

Researchers at TU Wien and Hiroshima University have corrected a long-standing flaw in the double-slit experiment, proving that individual particles can move along multiple paths at once. By detecting a single neutron, they were able to determine its presence on each path with high accuracy.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

MARATHON measures mirror nuclei

The MARATHON experiment has accessed new details about the particles that build our universe by comparing mirror nuclei helium-3 and tritium. The results provided a precise determination of the ratio of proton/neutron structure function ratios, offering new insights into the internal structures of protons and neutrons.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
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 pumpkin shaped nucleus radiates protons with record setting rate

A new atomic nucleus, 149-Lutetium, has been synthesized at the University of Jyvaskyla, emitting protons with a record-breaking rate. This discovery provides exceptional decay properties and breaks previous records for half-life and decay energy.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022

Magnetic excitations could provide information transfer without heat loss

Researchers have discovered that magnetic spin waves can propagate on circular paths in certain materials, enabling efficient and compact information transfer. This phenomenon, known as Landau quantization, has significant implications for the development of new electronic components.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022
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.

Story tips: Beneath the skin, crustacean-inspired cotton, automating clean water, samples in space and capturing furnace emissions

Researchers analyzed skin cell data to identify gene expression patterns responsible for inflammation in atopic dermatitis. Crustacean-inspired cotton was found to control water flow through a special wicking mechanism. Autonomous water treatment systems were also developed to improve energy efficiency and waste reduction.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022

New neutron-based method helps keep underwater pipelines open

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new neutron-based method to detect clogs in underwater pipelines non-destructively. This approach uses prompt gamma neutron activation analysis to measure hydrogen concentration, allowing for the detection of blockages and hydrate formation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNondestructive Testing And Evaluation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2022

Challenging Einstein’s greatest theory with extreme stars

A team of international researchers challenged Einstein's theory of general relativity using pulsars as a cosmic laboratory. They detected new relativistic effects, including light deflection and time dilation, with unprecedented precision. The study provides significant insights into gravity theories and the fundamental forces of nature.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 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.

The tetra-neutron – experiment finds evidence for a long-sought particle comprising four neutrons

Physicists at Technical University of Munich discover potential existence of tetra-neutron, a bound state of four neutrons, which could significantly alter our understanding of nuclear forces. The experiment's results suggest a half-life of 450 seconds and stability comparable to the neutron.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021
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.

Nuclear radiation used to transmit digital data wirelessly

Researchers at Lancaster University successfully transferred digitally encoded information wirelessly using nuclear radiation, achieving 100% successful transmission tests. This novel approach uses fast neutrons, which can penetrate materials like metals, making it ideal for safety-critical scenarios and emergency rescue operations.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A Accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

New insights into the structure of the neutron

An international research team has measured neutron form factors with previously unattained precision, filling a blank space on the map. The new data provides a more comprehensive picture of the neutron's size and lifetime, and reveals oscillating patterns in its form factor.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 8, 2021

New insights into the structure of the neutron

Physicists have precisely determined the neutron form factor in a previously unknown energy range, revealing an oscillating pattern and surprising behavior. The findings suggest that nucleons do not have a simple structure, prompting theoretical models to be developed.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021

Story tips: Predicting water quality, stronger & ‘stretchier’ alloys, RAPID reinforcement and mountainous water towers

Researchers create a multiscale model to track water quality indicators like nitrogen and mercury levels, incorporating biogeochemical reactions in microbially-active zones. They also develop 'stretchier' alloys by adding nano structures, which enhance strength and ductility, making them suitable for various applications. Additionally,...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Neutron star collisions are “goldmine” of heavy elements, study finds

Researchers at MIT and UNH find that binary neutron star mergers produce two to 100 times more heavy metals than neutron star-black hole mergers. The study suggests that binary neutron stars are a likely cosmic source for gold, platinum, and other heavy metals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 25, 2021

Quarks and antiquarks at high momentum shake the foundations of visible matter

Two independent studies illuminate unexpected substructures in fundamental components of all matter. One study presents new evidence on the EMC effect by tagging spectator neutrons, offering direct insight into its origin. Meanwhile, a team from Fermilab found evidence that antimatter asymmetry plays a crucial role in nucleon properties.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 13, 2021