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Crowning a quest into a very well-guarded secret: Structure of the kinetochore corona finally revealed

Researchers have deciphered the structure of the kinetochore corona, a complex protein assembly that plays a pivotal role in chromosome segregation. The study, published in The EMBO Journal, provides new insights into how this critical process is regulated and offers a framework for future studies on cell division.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The dark matter of the brain

Electrical synapses play a vital role in brain function and stability, influencing individual nerve cell activity. In Drosophila, researchers found electrical synapses occur in almost all brain areas, affecting visual processing and neuron stability.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 5, 2022

Rare bacterial strain isolated and sequenced at Tokyo University of Science

A new bacterial strain, Noda2021, belonging to Candidatus phylum Dependentiae has been isolated and sequenced, revealing its genetic material and potential ecological significance. This discovery sheds light on the diversity of microorganisms in Japan's microbiological hotspots.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiology Resource Announcements·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Molecular cage gives cryo-EM researchers new insights into a cancer protein

Scientists at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have created a molecular cage to study the structure of KIX, a protein used by AML cancer cells. The technique has successfully imaged KIX with cryo-EM, revealing new insights into its function and potential targets for therapy.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022
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.

Science fiction revisited: Ramjet propulsion

Calculations at TU Wien show that Ramjet propulsion, which involves capturing protons and using them for a nuclear fusion reactor, cannot work as proposed. The analysis revealed huge dimensions required to achieve even minimal thrust, making it impossible for current technology to achieve.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2021

Advanced analysis of Apollo sample illuminates Moon’s evolution

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals chemical heterogeneities in Apollo 17 sample troctolite 76535, indicating an early rapid cooling of the Moon. This finding challenges previous estimates of a 100-million-year cooling duration and supports initial rapid cooling of magmas within the lunar crust.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021

Finding new channels to selectively target pest insects

Scientists have discovered new targets for insecticides by analyzing the structure of potassium channels in Drosophila. The study provides a detailed map of the channel, enabling the design of highly selective and safe insecticides.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 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.

Some polycrystal grain boundaries feel the heat more than others

The study found that certain grain boundaries in strontium titanate exhibit enhanced thermal expansion, leading to potential material failures. This discovery highlights the importance of grain boundaries in material properties and has implications for selecting suitable materials for various applications.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 2, 2021

DNA replication under the microscope

Cryo-EM study reveals details of DNA repair mechanism translesion synthesis (TLS), allowing cells to survive with mutations. Key protein complex Pol K - PCNA interaction modulated by ubiquitination facilitates recruitment of TLS polymerase to damage sites.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 22, 2021

Advanced microscopes help scientists understand how cells break down proteins

Researchers from the University of Chicago used cryo-electron microscopy to study protein degradation in yeast, describing the structure of a key enzyme involved in ubiquitination. The study provides new insights into the process and its potential role in human diseases such as aging and neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

The ultrastructure of huntingtin inclusions revealed

Researchers have used advanced microscopy to study the ultrastructure of huntingtin inclusions, revealing different mechanisms of aggregation that lead to distinct biochemical properties. The findings suggest targeting inclusion growth as a potential therapeutic strategy for slowing Huntington's disease progression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Researchers detect a diffusion barrier inside fly brain

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has identified a second barrier in the fly brain, formed by glial cells that regulate molecule distribution. The discovery is essential for understanding nervous system functioning and may have implications for human neural health.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2021

More than a gut reaction

Researchers have discovered that genes regulating synaptic connections between cells are active in specific parts of the digestive chambers of freshwater sponges. This finding suggests that these cells may be evolutionary precursors for the first animal brains, providing insight into the evolution of brain function.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 4, 2021

Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Machine learning helps reveal cells’ inner structures in new detail

A new machine learning algorithm has enabled researchers to automatically identify and map the inner structures of cells, including organelles, with unprecedented precision. By processing tens of thousands of high-resolution images, scientists have gained insights into how these structures interact and are arranged within the cell.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 6, 2021
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.

Skyrmion research: Braids of nanovortices discovered

Researchers from Germany, Sweden, and China have discovered braided structures of nanoscale skyrmions in alloys of iron and germanium, offering new insights into their properties and potential uses. These complex shapes stabilize the magnetic structures, making them interesting for applications in information processing.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2021

Revealing the secrets of ground beetle wing casings

A team from The University of Tsukuba used microscopy techniques to analyze the microstructure of the ground beetle's wing casing, revealing a unique helical structure that creates optical effects. This finding has significant implications for the development of new biomimetic materials with enhanced performance.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMicron·DateOct 5, 2021

Silicon anodes muscle in on battery technology

Researchers have observed for the first time how silicon anodes degrade in lithium-ion batteries due to swelling and electrolyte infiltration. This degradation leads to reduced battery capacity and charging speed, but scientists are exploring ways to protect silicon from these effects.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 5, 2021
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.

Imaging single spine structural plasticity at the nanoscale level

Scientists have developed a powerful new imaging strategy capable of visualizing the fine, ultrastructural changes to dendritic spines during structural plasticity. They found that the postsynaptic density region underwent significant growth and reorganization on a rapid timescale.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021

Light-induced shape shifting of MXenes

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered that MXenes can be switched repeatedly between a flat and a rippled shape by applying femtosecond laser pulses. This discovery could lead to improved energy storage capacity, enhanced catalytic or antibiotic activity, and new applications in sensing and active plasmonic devices.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 1, 2021

Overcoming obstacles to promote repair in multiple sclerosis

A new study suggests that existing drugs for multiple sclerosis may not be effective due to toxic blood leaks in the brain. Researchers have identified a promising alternative treatment option that could improve myelin repair, even in the presence of these harmful elements.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalBrain·DateAug 24, 2021

Groundbreaking visualization of atomic movements

A novel method for imaging vibrations and movements of atoms in catalysts has been developed by a collaboration of internationally leading researchers. The new analytical method reveals a dynamic behavior of the atoms, contrary to the long-held expectation that atoms in nanoparticles are static during observations.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 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.

Recycling a cell’s energy centers to ward off Parkinson's disease

Scientists discovered a new mitochondrial recycling pathway that may help prevent Parkinson's disease. The study, published in Science Advances, reveals that genes associated with Parkinson's disease play key roles in this process and that disruptions can contribute to neurodegeneration.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 6, 2021

New study details enzyme that allows coronavirus to resist antiviral medications

A recent study published in Science has detailed the structure of a critical enzyme, ExoN, that allows the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 to resist nucleoside antiviral treatments. Understanding this enzyme's structure may lead to the development of new methods for deactivating it and improving existing treatments for COVID-19 patients.

SourceIowa State University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 3, 2021

Scientists discover ‘bulkheads’ between liver cells

Researchers at Skoltech have discovered structures called apical bulkheads in liver cells that are responsible for the narrow shape of bile canaliculi. The discovery reveals a key role for the Rab35 protein in regulating hepatocyte lumina formation and suggests potential avenues for medical applications in fatty liver disease and fibrosis

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021

Electrons in quantum liquid gain energy from laser pulses

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have demonstrated the absorption of energy from laser light by free electrons in a liquid for the first time. This breakthrough opens new doors for ultra-fast electron microscopy, crucial for investigating smallest objects at fastest time scales.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2021

Mouse brain imaged from the microscopic to the macroscopic level

Scientists have imaged an entire mouse brain at the microscopic to macroscopic level using a new micro-CT approach. This technique bridges the resolution gap between MRI and electron microscopy, enabling the connection of biomarkers across multiple scales and improving image resolution.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 28, 2021
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.

A direct look at OLED films leads to some pretty exciton findings

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba directly observed electron dynamics in organic film OLEDs, revealing a previously unknown feature of exciton decay. The study's findings may contribute to the development of more efficient OLED-based products.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJun 25, 2021

Phytoplankton -- the discovery of a missing link

A team of biologists identified a family of algae as a living missing link in the microscopic domain. The discovery sheds new light on the evolution of these organisms and clarifies their evolutionary history.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2021

Light-shrinking material lets ordinary microscope see in super resolution

Electrical engineers at UC San Diego developed a technology that converts low-resolution light to high-resolution light, enabling ordinary microscopes to image living cells with a resolution of up to 40 nanometers. The technology uses a specially engineered material that shortens the wavelength of light as it illuminates the sample.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2021
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.

Gold digger: Neural networks at the nexus of data science and electron microscopy

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used machine learning to develop Gold Digger software that can accurately identify gold particles bound to specific proteins of interest. The software uses a deep learning approach to distinguish gold particles from shadow artifacts with near-human level accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2021

Oxygen migration enables ferroelectricity on nanoscale

Scientists at the University of Groningen found that oxygen atoms migrating through a hafnium-based capacitor create spontaneous polarization, enabling ferroelectric properties. This discovery paves the way for new materials with potential applications in nanometre-sized memory and logic devices.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience·DateApr 15, 2021

Viewing the virus close up

The 'Compact Cell-Imaging Device' project aims to advance research into viral diseases by developing a miniaturized soft X-ray approach. This method allows for three-dimensional imaging of intact cells and can reveal changes induced by viral infections, making it an attractive tool for studying SARS-CoV-2.

SourceHeidelberg University·DateMar 30, 2021

Method offers inexpensive imaging at the scale of virus particles

Researchers at MIT have developed a technique for imaging biological samples with accuracy of 10 nanometers using an ordinary light microscope. The new hydrogel-based approach improves upon previous versions, enabling high-resolution images without expensive equipment.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 29, 2021

Exploring the nanoworld in 3D

Researchers from CNRS and universities in France and Austria develop new imaging technique to visualize electromagnetic fields surrounding nanocrystals. This breakthrough enables precise targeting of heat transfers and better understanding of materials properties.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New method could democratize deep learning-enhanced microscopy

A new method developed by Salk researchers enables scientists to improve microscope image quality using artificial intelligence and artificially degraded images. The 'crappifier' tool can help democratize microscopy, making it accessible to those without powerful microscopes.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 8, 2021

Mysterious magnetic fossils offer past climate clues

Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a new technique to analyze magnetofossils, which can reveal information about past climates. The method uses FORC measurements to identify giant magnetofossils, allowing scientists to study ocean responses to past climate changes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

GridTape: An automated electron microscopy platform

The new technique allows researchers to study whole neural circuits in high detail and at scale. They used it to create a comprehensive map of neuronal circuits that control motor function in fruit flies, discovering new sensory neurons.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2021

New approach reveals structure and function of individual synapses

An interdisciplinary team of scientists has developed a novel approach to measure the activity and strength of individual synapses that drive a neuron's response. They found that strong synapses do not have strict relationships with neuron responses, but rather are influenced by the total number of activated synapses.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNature·DateDec 16, 2020

Catalytic activity of individual cobalt oxide nanoparticles determined

Researchers have developed a new technique to analyze the properties of individual cobalt oxide particles, enabling more efficient catalysts for hydrogen production. The method allows for the selection of particles under an electron microscope and their placement on a nanoelectrode for electrochemical analysis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 15, 2020
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.

Record resolution in X-ray microscopy

Researchers at FAU have achieved a record resolution of 7 nanometres in X-ray microscopy, allowing for direct imaging of nanostructures. This breakthrough enables significant advances in research into nanostructures, solar cells, and magnetic data storage.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalOptica·DateDec 11, 2020

Neural cartography

Researchers demonstrate a new x-ray microscopy technique called x-ray holographic nano-tomography (XNH) that can image large volumes of brain tissue at high resolutions. This technique, combined with artificial intelligence-driven image analysis, enables the comprehensive cataloging of neurons and tracing of individual neurons from mus...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 2020

Machine learning peeks into nano-aquariums

Researchers developed a machine learning workflow to streamline the analysis of liquid-phase electron microscopy videos, enabling the extraction of valuable information from nanoparticle dynamics. The new technique has potential applications in medicine, energy, environmental sustainability, and biomaterials research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 24, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

How smart, ultrathin nanosheets go fishing for proteins

Researchers developed ultrathin 'smart nanosheets' that can capture protein complexes from mixtures, enabling faster and more accurate analysis with electron microscopy. This innovation can lead to better understanding of diseases and treatment with drugs.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 20, 2020

Electron cryo-microscopy: Using inexpensive technology to produce high-resolution images

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have successfully determined the structure of ferritin using an affordable electron cryo-microscope, achieving resolutions comparable to expensive equipment. This method enables collaboration on structural analysis of samples with medical and biotechnological potential.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 13, 2020

Decoding material wear with supercomputers

Scientists at TU Wien have developed a new method for simulating wear and friction on an atomic scale using supercomputers. This allows them to study the behavior of materials on a microscopic level, enabling the prediction of durability and safety in industrial applications.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 30, 2020

Super-resolution microscopy reveals a twist inside of cells

A new super-resolution microscope reveals unprecedented detail of the centriole's twist, a nanoscale structure important for cell division. The technology could be used to study other cellular structures like mitochondria or viruses.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 22, 2020
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.

Lensless on-chip microscopy platform shows slides in full view

A new lensless on-chip microscopy platform developed at UConn removes traditional lenses to provide a fuller picture of tissue samples, leading to more accurate diagnoses. The platform uses ptychography and achieves an ultra-high Fresnel number, allowing for a 30 mm2 field of view and eliminating the need for cell staining.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalLab on a Chip·DateFeb 19, 2020

X-ray microscopy at BESSY II: Nanoparticles can change cells

A recent study at BESSY II used X-ray microscopy to investigate how nanoparticles interact with cells. Researchers found that nanoparticles can change the number and type of cell organelles, such as increasing mitochondria and decreasing lipid droplets. This suggests that different nanoparticle coatings may have similar effects on cells.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 12, 2020

Atom or noise? New method helps cryo-EM researchers tell the difference

Researchers developed Q-scores to assess true resolution at every point in cryo-EM maps, enabling accurate interpretation of atomic models. The approach validated on large molecules, achieving high-resolution maps close to 1.75 angstroms, and demonstrates improved confidence in molecular interpretations.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 11, 2020