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Proteins put up with the roar of the crowd

Researchers found that proteins have quick access to target genes in cells despite crowding, thanks to dynamic movements of molecules. This discovery suggests that proteins can efficiently search and bind to DNA even in busy environments.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJun 23, 2016

An experiment seeks to make quantum physics visible to the naked eye

A team of physicists has proposed an experiment that could detect entangled photons directly, paving the way for new applications in quantum physics. The experiment involves amplifying entangled photons 100-fold and using a special technique to preserve their quantum physical effect.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalOptica·DateMay 3, 2016

Thanks, actin, for the memories

Researchers at Rice University suggest that actin filaments play a key role in forming and storing long-term memories by stabilizing soluble cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding proteins (CPEB) into longer, insoluble prion-like fibers. This process is thought to aggregate and encode memories in neurons' synaptic regions.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016
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.

Physicists build engine consisting of one atom

Researchers create single-particle engine that can store and generate energy, operating at 0.3% efficiency with a power output of 10^-22 watts. The device has potential applications in quantum thermodynamics and nano engineering.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience·DateApr 15, 2016

Theoretical physics discovery to set the research field buzzing

Researchers Nayana Shah and Carlos Bolech found a discrepancy in the conventional approach to bosonization-debosonization, contradicting past work on quantum computers and electronic devices. Their new consistent formalism offers a general recipe for solving problems involving strong particle interactions.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 14, 2016

Using statistics to predict rogue waves

Researchers have created a statistical model to forecast extreme waves, which are large and spontaneous ocean waves that can be deadly. The model uses joint statistics of multiple points in time or space to capture wave heights and turbulent air flows, greatly reducing complexity and obeying the Fokker-Planck equation.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 10, 2016
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.

Turbulent times: When stars approach

Researchers used new methods to model the common-envelope phase of binary stars, revealing dynamic instabilities crucial for supernova evolution. These turbulent fluctuations affect a star system's fate, influencing whether a supernova occurs and its type.

SourceHeidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 4, 2016

A new metamaterial will speed up computers

A team of scientists has proposed a two-dimensional metamaterial composed of silver elements that refracts light in an unusual way, potentially speeding up computer processing. The material could be used to develop compact optical devices and create an 'invisibility cloak'.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateDec 28, 2015

Quantum physics problem proved unsolvable

A mathematical problem in particle and quantum physics is provably unsolvable, showing that even a complete microscopic description cannot predict macroscopic behavior. This finding limits the extent to which we can predict the behavior of quantum materials.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateDec 9, 2015

Tissue cartography

Two postdoctoral scholars from UC Santa Barbara's Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics developed a method called ImSAnE, which constructs an atlas of two-dimensional maps for dynamic tissue surfaces. This allows scientists to analyze layered tissues with relative ease and reduces data size and processing time.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 2, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

On the precision frontier: A new calculation holds promise for new physics

A team of physicists has published a new calculation that could significantly advance the indirect search for physics beyond the Standard Model. The calculation applies to rare B meson decays, which are being studied for potential clues about undiscovered subatomic particles.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2015

Chalmers researchers extend the lifetime of atoms using a mirror

Chalmers researchers have extended the lifetime of artificial atoms by up to ten times by positioning them in front of a mirror. By controlling the distance between the atom and the mirror, they can manipulate the vacuum fluctuations that cause the atom to decay. This breakthrough could lead to more precise control over quantum systems.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 13, 2015

Simulation of chiral edge states in a quantum system

Researchers have successfully simulated chiral edge states in a quantum system using ultracold ytterbium atoms. The experiment demonstrates the ability to observe chiral currents at the boundaries of two-dimensional materials, similar to those observed in condensed matter physics.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 2015

In September's Physics World: The secret life of scientific ideas...

Researchers have found that most ideas are generated through group work and discussions with colleagues, contrary to the traditional image of a single individual having an eureka moment. The study also highlights the importance of mundane activities like taking a bath in sparking creativity.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateAug 31, 2015

Identifying ever-growing disturbances leading to freak waves

Researchers have made significant progress in identifying growing localised patterns as early indicators of freak waves. By resolving the nonlinear Schrödinger equation, they can extract pertinent information from localised disturbances' characteristics, shedding light on complex dynamics.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 28, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Advancing physics frontiers

The US National Science Foundation has awarded 10 Physics Frontiers Centers, focusing on basic research in quantum computing and fundamental physics. These collaborative environments support multidisciplinary projects and education initiatives.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 31, 2015

Physicists shed light on mysterious tongue condition

Geographic tongue (GT) is characterized by evolving red patches on the tongue surface due to loss of papillae. New research reveals GT can spread in circular or spiral patterns, with spiral patterns indicating a more acute condition that lingers for a long time.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateMar 31, 2015

Science: Theory of the strong interaction verified

A team of physicists has calculated the tiny neutron-proton mass difference using a powerful supercomputer, verifying the theory of the strong interaction. The finding confirms that neutrons are slightly more massive than protons, with a 0.14% difference, and opens up new possibilities for simulations of quarks and nuclear particles.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2015
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.

Black holes and the dark sector explained by quantum gravity

Nexus theory reconciles GR and Quantum Theory, explaining dark matter as the nexus graviton's constant rotational motion. The theory also sheds light on perplexing questions in physics, including a quantum description of Black Holes without singularities.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalInternational Journal of Geometric Methods in Modern Physics·DateMar 20, 2015

Black holes and the dark sector explained by quantum gravity

The Nexus theory provides a self-consistent explanation for Quantum Gravity, reconciling GR with Quantum Theory. It introduces the Nexus graviton, a composite particle that induces constant rotational motion and constitutes space-time.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalInternational Journal of Geometric Methods in Modern Physics·DateMar 5, 2015

The taming of magnetic vortices

Physicists at TUM and University of Cologne develop theoretical description of behavior for magnetic vortices in conductors, semiconductors, and insulators. The theory predicts properties for optimal device development, promising compact frequency devices with high efficiency.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 3, 2015

Could a new proposed particle help to detect dark matter?

Researchers at the University of Southampton have proposed a new fundamental particle that could explain why Dark Matter remains undetected. The particle interacts strongly with normal matter, making it a promising candidate for detection in space experiments.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 29, 2015
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.

Only the lonely...(reveal the secrets of atomic nuclei)

A team of physicists has found that protons and neutrons in large atomic nuclei do not behave as predicted by existing models. The researchers used experimental data from various elements to fit parameters into the current model, showing that quantum effects and nuclear vibrations have a lower impact on individual particles than thought.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 21, 2015

New evidence for anthropic theory that fundamental physics constants underlie life-enabling universe

A new study by Professor Ulf-G Meißner finds that fundamental physics constants are fine-tuned to allow for the emergence of a life-enabling universe. The researcher used high-performance computers to simulate worlds with altered light quark masses and found that variations up to 2-3% do not prevent the formation of carbon and oxygen.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJan 16, 2015

As in a cloud

Physicists at Goethe University Frankfurt have used the COLTRIMS reaction microscope to demonstrate that the structure of the helium-3 molecule is a 'cloud' rather than a solid structure. The results resolve a long-standing dispute in theoretical physics and show that all possible configurations are equally probable.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2014

Cell's skeleton is never still

Researchers developed computer models that match experimental results, explaining the dynamic processes behind essential cell components. Microtubule stability is crucial for cell survival, and the study provides new insights into how cells maintain or dismantle these structures.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateNov 24, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Twisted light waves sent across Vienna

Researchers sent twisted light beams across Vienna, encoding images and demonstrating increased data-carrying capacity. The technology could significantly increase data-rates in classical communication and make secret keys tougher to crack in quantum communication.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 11, 2014

Biology meets geometry

Researchers describe the Terasaki ramps in the endoplasmic reticulum as spiral structures that connect parallel sheets, allowing for high density of ribosomes. This geometry is stable and minimizes energy, consistent with the laminar structure of the stacks.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 30, 2014

Winning by losing

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology and Washington University in St. Louis have confirmed a paradoxical laser effect, where energy loss can turn lasers on. By carefully tuning the amount of light lost through a chromium needle, they were able to switch the laser system on.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Nano-bearings on the test bench

Scientists simulate nano-bearings made of C60 flake to study friction reduction. However, results show no significant decrease in friction when the flake is attached in a way that prevents rotation.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNanoscale·DateOct 3, 2014

Transformative science

A new partnership between NSF, NCI, SU2C, and The V Foundation will explore transformative, theoretical biophysics for cancer research and treatment. This collaboration aims to merge life sciences with physical, computational, and engineering sciences to develop innovative approaches.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 8, 2014

NSF renews grant for biological physics research at Rice

The Center for Theoretical Biological Physics at Rice University has received a five-year, $11.75 million grant from the NSF to support its work on applying physical science to new aspects of the natural world. Researchers will develop concepts, models and methods that quantitatively describe processes in living systems.

SourceRice University·DateSep 2, 2014

From eons to seconds, proteins exploit the same forces

Rice University theorists show that energy landscapes dominate both evolution and folding of proteins. The team used computer models to compare the folding of natural proteins from eons to seconds, revealing a common connection between evolution and physics.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2014
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.

Princeton Plasma Lab funded to explore nanoparticles with plasma

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has received funding to study the role of plasma in nanoparticle synthesis, a process used in various applications including energy technologies and pharmaceutical products. Key researchers will investigate complex interactions between hot plasma gas and material synthesis.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateJun 9, 2014

Astronomers discover first Thorne-Zytkow object, a bizarre type of hybrid star

Scientists detect the first Thorne-Żytkow object, a bizarre type of hybrid star formed from red supergiant and neutron stars. The discovery provides evidence for a new model of stellar interiors and offers insights into heavy element production in the universe.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 4, 2014

Physicist builds useful light source from harmonic generation

Researchers at Kansas State University are developing a way to enhance high-order harmonics to create powerful small tabletop light sources. They propose synthesizing two- or three-color laser fields to optimize harmonic intensity, potentially leading to new applications in science and technology.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Smaller accelerators for particle physics?

Smaller laser-plasma accelerators could accelerate particles to high energies, potentially reducing the cost of high-energy physics research and industrial applications. The new technology uses a combination of lasers to create an incoherent wakefield, which would allow for more sustainable and affordable accelerators.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMay 27, 2014

Superconducting qubit array points the way to quantum computers

A new 5-qubit array demonstrates improved reliability in quantum computing, a crucial step towards building a functional quantum computer. The team's findings are based on theoretical work by Austin Fowler and the surface code architecture, which provides a way to control qubits properly.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateApr 23, 2014
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.

Progress in the fight against quantum dissipation

Scientists at Yale have confirmed a long-held theoretical prediction in physics, improving the energy storage time of a quantum switch. The breakthrough opens new frontiers for quantum information processing and measurement systems.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateApr 16, 2014

Keeping secrets in a world of spies and mistrust

Researchers Artur Ekert and Renato Renner propose a way to use quantum properties of particles of light to share secret keys for secure communication. They found that certain correlations can protect us against adversaries with superior technology, even if our choices are not completely predictable.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalNature·DateMar 26, 2014

Plugging the hole in Hawking's black hole theory

Physicist Chris Adami has solved the information paradox in Hawking's black hole theory by introducing the concept of stimulated emission. According to Adami, the information swallowed by a black hole is copied and preserved outside the event horizon through stimulated emission.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalClassical and Quantum Gravity·DateMar 24, 2014
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.

All paths lead to Rome, even the path to condensed matter theory

Carlo Di Castro reflects on the development of theoretical condensed matter physics in Rome, highlighting key areas like superfluid helium, quantum systems, and high-temperature superconductors. He shares personal anecdotes about his research policy experiences and the evolution of his field.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateMar 10, 2014

Bats inspire 'micro air vehicle' designs

Researchers at Virginia Tech used experimental measurements and analysis software to understand how fruit bats use their wings to manipulate airflow. They found that bat wings can generate forces up to two-to-three times greater than a static airfoil wing, making them ideal for designing micro air vehicles with flapping wings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 18, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Is truth stranger than fiction? Yes, especially for science fiction

Renowned physicist Lawrence Krauss believes science fiction is not a match for reality. He argues that science fiction often fails to capture the complexity of scientific discoveries. Meanwhile, Krauss suggests exploring real-world applications of science fiction concepts, such as warp drive and teleportation, which may be possible in ...

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 14, 2014

Physicists produce a potentially revolutionary material

Researchers have successfully produced artificial graphene from traditional semiconductor materials, opening up new possibilities for high-performance photovoltaic cells, lasers, LED lighting, and more. The discovery was made by a team of scientists at the University of Luxembourg and published in Physical Review X.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 14, 2014

Electron 'antenna' tunes in to physics beyond Higgs

Researchers measured the electric dipole moment of electrons to probe the Standard Model's limitations. Their results suggest that supersymmetric particles may not exist as predicted, leaving gaps in our understanding of dark matter and the universe.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2013

Nanofriction on the tip of the microscope

Researchers observed 'dissipation' peaks in NbSe2 due to frictional force, related to charge density waves. Their theoretical model reproduces experimental data, shedding light on nanofriction mechanisms underlying energy losses.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 16, 2013
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.

3D printing used as a tool to explain theoretical physics

Researchers have successfully demonstrated how complex theoretical physics can be transformed into a physical object using a 3D printer. They created an 8 cm3 object based on a mathematical model describing forest fires, which could be used to produce works of art or transform scientific discussions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateDec 8, 2013

What water looks like to DNA

A team of biochemists and mathematicians developed a geometric model to predict how biological molecules interact with water, computing results up to 20 times faster. This approach may help identify new targets for treating human diseases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 19, 2013

Cat's eyes: Designing the perfect mixer

A new mixing strategy using synchronized flows of jets has been developed to optimize mixers in industrial products. The 'cat's eyes flip flow' is a promising solution that increases performance while reducing energy consumption, making the process more environmentally friendly.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 29, 2013
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.