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Novel MD simulation sheds light on mystery of hydrated electron's structure

Researchers used correlated wavefunction theory to simulate the bulk hydrated electron, finding a persistent tetrahedral cavity made up of four water molecules. The model provided stronger theoretical evidence for the cavity model, dismissing non-cavity structures in stable and metastable states.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 22, 2019

EPFL researchers simulate the process of adhesive wear

Researchers at EPFL's LSMS digitally simulated how surface roughness changes over time, capturing the entire process from initial geometry to final fractal geometry. Their findings suggest that wear debris is present for surfaces to develop self-affine roughness and could lead to significant reductions in energy consumption and costs.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2019

Solving a sticky problem

Tevis Jacobs will study individual nanoparticles using electron microscopy to understand atomic-scale relationships between adhesion and coarsening. The award enables the development of new methods for measuring nanoparticle attachment and stability on surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateMar 4, 2019

Simulated ocean mesoscale structures induce air-sea interaction

Researchers used a high-resolution model to study mesoscale air-sea interaction, revealing its significant impact on oceanic circulation, atmospheric processes, and cloud formation. The study highlights the importance of resolving oceanic mesoscale eddies and fronts in global coupled models.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 20, 2019
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.

Study unfolds a new class of mechanical devices

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a new class of mechanical devices called 'developable mechanisms' that can transform into useful functions without taking up space. These devices can be integrated into surfaces to create compact machines with complex tasks.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 13, 2019

Leuven experts push the boundaries of 3D microscopy

Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven have developed new methods for 3D microscopy, including ALMOST, which provides unprecedented imaging of reflective opaque objects. Additionally, a modernized Golgi staining technique has been optimized to study neurons in more detail, preserving ultrastructural details.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2019

Artificial sensor mimics human sense of touch

Researchers developed an artificial tactile sensor that detects surface information like shapes, patterns, and structures with high accuracy. The sensor uses piezoelectric materials to mimic the properties of human skin, offering advantages over existing sensors, including detection through touch and sliding.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics·DateNov 7, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Inspired by feet

A research team from Kiel University has developed a method to boost the adhesive effect of silicone materials by combining surface structuring with plasma treatment. They found that surfaces with a mushroom-like microstructure exhibit significantly improved adhesion, even when bent to varying degrees. This breakthrough could enable ne...

SourceKiel University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 31, 2018

High-resolution imaging of nanoparticle surface structures is now possible

Researchers have successfully imaged the surface structures of silver nanoparticles at atomic resolution using scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM). The technique allows for the identification of individual parts of molecules on the nanoparticle's surface, providing insights into their chemical properties and molecular interactions.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2018

Building bridges with water molecules

A team at TU Wien has uncovered the mystery behind water molecule structures on iron oxide surfaces, revealing complex bridge-like structures that play a significant role in chemical reactions. These findings have wide-ranging implications for processes such as corrosion and catalyst function, and pave the way for further research into...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2018
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.

Three Argonne scientists receive DOE early career awards

Three researchers at Argonne National Laboratory, Prasanna Balaprakash, Karen Mulfort, and Zhang Jiang, have earned the DOE's Early Career Research Program awards. They will receive funding to advance their research in machine learning, molecular interactions, and advanced materials imaging.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJun 22, 2018

Tiny structures -- huge impact

Researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena have successfully created tailored surface structures on curved carbon fibers using laser technology, enabling new applications in composite materials and optical devices. The method allows for precise control over the structure's size and shape, opening up possibilities for improving m...

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCarbon·DateApr 13, 2018

Mapping battery materials with atomic precision

Researchers mapped battery materials with atomic precision, finding that surface structure differs from interior and optimizing performance by varying lithium-to-metal ratios. The study used advanced electron microscopy techniques to analyze cathode material structures, revealing new insights into phase transformations and capacity loss.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 7, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Math gets real in strong, lightweight structures

Rice researchers successfully printed complex schwarzite structures with computer algorithms and 3-D printers, showcasing their strength, lightness, and durability. The discovery may lead to high-load-bearing components for buildings, cars, and aircraft, as well as nanoscale electronic devices and battery components.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 16, 2017

Spots on supergiant star drive spirals in stellar wind

Researchers found that spots on the surface of Zeta Puppis, a supergiant star, create large-scale spiral structures in its stellar wind. The team observed periodic signals in the star's light and wind behavior, indicating a link between surface variations and wind clumping.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 24, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Stopping problem ice -- by cracking it

Researchers at NTNU have developed a novel approach to prevent ice build-up by cracking it. By adding inner pillars and holes to surfaces, they can create macro-cracks that allow ice to fall off, reducing adhesion strengths by up to 50%. This method has the potential to revolutionize anti-icing technology in various industries.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSoft Matter·DateSep 21, 2017

A novel and practical fab-route for superomniphobic liquid-free surfaces

Researchers at KAIST have developed a novel fabrication technology to produce superomniphobic surfaces that can repel liquids, including water and oil. The new approach uses localized photofluidization of azobenzene molecule-containing polymers, resulting in a superior superomniphobic property.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 11, 2017

Chemical hot spots

Researchers at Technical University of Munich used a scanning tunneling microscope to analyze the surface activity of catalysts. They found that defects on the surface create ideal conditions for catalysis by attracting but not holding onto hydrogen ions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2017
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.

Vapor harvesting gets the edge

Scientists at KAUST have found that the edge of a surface structure plays a crucial role in water-droplet formation during vapor harvesting. This discovery reveals that rough-edged structures mimicking nature can be highly effective in collecting atmospheric water vapor, potentially improving efficiency in regions with limited rainfall...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGlobal Challenges·DateAug 13, 2017

Riding the wave: Pioneering research tames nanoquakes

Scientists develop a phononic crystal structure that can steer and guide surface acoustic waves, or 'nanoquakes,' in devices. The breakthrough could pave the way for lab-on-a-chip biosensors and earthquake protection.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 2017
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.

Researchers develop new EcoCity model for mitigating urban heat islands

Researchers developed an EcoCity model to regulate urban land cover structures and thermal environments, providing fundamental data for urban heat island mitigation. The model showed that land-cover components significantly affect thermal environments in different urban functional zones.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·DateJun 6, 2017

The repulsion trick: A self-solving puzzle for organic molecules

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich develop a method to mix molecules with opposing intermolecular interactions, creating tailored surface structures. The technique enables the controlled production of active layer systems, which are crucial for organic electronics applications.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 16, 2017

Imaging at the speed of light

Scientists have developed a technique to visualize the complete evolution of micro- and nanostructure formation on a material's surface. This allows for better control over these structures, which are crucial for improving various technologies such as anti-corrosive materials, energy absorbers, and medical instrumentation.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateMar 14, 2017
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.

Cicada wings inspire antireflective surfaces

A team of Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers developed antireflective structures capable of suppressing visible light at different angles of incidence. The structures, inspired by cicada wings, were fabricated using titanium dioxide and show great potential for photovoltaic devices like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 11, 2016

'sensing skin' detects cracks, harmful chemicals in structures

The sensing skin detects cracks and harmful chemicals in structures using three layers: one for crack detection, a buffer layer, and another with metal nanoparticles that respond to specific chemicals. The technology can be applied to various materials and can detect problems early on.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalStructural Health Monitoring·DateOct 10, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Alaska's 'Sleeping Lady'

Scientists have overturned traditional interpretations of the Susitna basin in Alaska, discovering that it was formed by a southwest-dipping thrust fault. This finding changes our understanding of the region's geologic evolution and the formation of iconic landmarks like Mount Susitna.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateAug 16, 2016

NASA looks at a strengthening Tropical Storm Darby

Tropical Storm Darby strengthened rapidly, with maximum sustained winds reaching 70 mph and gusts exceeding 110 kph. NASA used satellite imagery to estimate the storm's minimum central pressure at 998 millibars.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 13, 2016

A drop of water as a model for the interplay of adhesion and stiction

Researchers developed an electrically switchable nanomesh that alters the contact angle of a drop of liquid, enabling precise control over adhesion and stiction. This breakthrough has potential applications in biology and technology, including controlling cell movement and flow resistance in capillary pumps.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016
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.

New mathematics accurately captures liquids and surfaces moving in synergy

A new mathematical framework developed by Robert Saye accurately resolves intricate fluid dynamics near evolving interfaces, allowing for the study of complex phenomena like bubble aeration and propeller blade optimization. High-order methods outperform low-order methods in accuracy and computing power.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 10, 2016

A foldable material that can change size, volume and shape

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences designed a tunable, self-actuated 3-D material that can alter its size, volume and shape. The structure is inspired by origami techniques and can be programmed to deform specific hinges using embedded pneumatic actuators.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2016

New research introduces 'pause button' for boiling

A team of researchers has developed a method to create a single vapor bubble in a pool of liquid that can remain stable on a surface for hours. This technique enables the microscopic study of vapor bubbles and the optimization of the boiling process, which could lead to advancements in heat transfer systems.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2016
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.

A new look at surface chemistry

A new analytical method using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) has resolved the unique atomic structure at the surface of a material for the first time. This breakthrough enables direct information on both surface and bulk atoms, improving understanding of critical reactions such as catalysis and corrosion.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2015

Rafts on the cell membrane

Researchers used advanced techniques to study single molecules and protein interactions on the cell membrane. The findings revealed that lipid rafts, previously thought to move within the membrane, do not exist. Instead, proteins may be anchored at specific positions on the surface, influencing cellular processes.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 2015

Quantum model reveals surface structure of water

A new quantum model has been used to determine the molecular structure of water's liquid surface, revealing the intrinsic asymmetry of hydrogen bonds and their role in the surface's molecular orientation. The results accurately capture the properties of liquid water and offer a promising platform for molecular exploration.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateApr 20, 2015
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.

Light reveals new details of Gauguin's creative process

A team of scientists and art conservators used a simple light bulb, SLR camera and computational power to uncover new details of Gauguin's printmaking process. The technique allowed them to measure the surface structure of prints, revealing that white lines were on a flat surface and ink sat atop ridges in the paper.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 14, 2015

Cellulose with Braille for cells

Scientists at ETH Zurich develop a method to produce pre-structured cellulose materials with three-dimensional micro-structures, enhancing biocompatibility. This leads to reduced inflammation and rejection reactions when using artificial implants.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 19, 2015

Researchers from MIPT predict properties of surface

Researchers from MIPT use the USPEX method to predict the structure and properties of rutile's surface. This resolves existing discrepancies between empirical and theoretical data, paving the way for understanding chemical reactions on the catalyst.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 13, 2015

Study: Atom-high steps halt oxidation of metal surfaces

Researchers discovered that aluminum atoms involved in forming oxide stripes come exclusively from the steps, not the terraces. The growing oxide stripes are confined to the flat terraces and must push the steps away as oxygen continues to grab aluminum atoms from the edges.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2014
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.

Restrooms: Not as unhealthy as you might think

Microbial succession in restrooms begins with gut and vaginal bacteria, followed by skin and outdoor microbes. Skin and outdoor taxa comprise most of the cultured communities, suggesting restrooms are not significantly unhealthy or healthy.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 1, 2014

Faster X-ray technology paves the way for better catalysts

Researchers have developed a novel X-ray technique that enables the rapid determination of atomic surface structures and live recordings of surface reactions like catalysis and corrosion. This breakthrough paves the way for designing better catalysts and materials on an atomic level.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2014