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ScienceDaily: Matter & Energy News |
| Discovered: An easier way to create 'flexible diamonds' Posted: 02 Mar 2022 03:59 PM PST As hard as diamond and as flexible as plastic, highly sought-after diamond nanothreads would be poised to revolutionize our world -- if they weren't so difficult to make. Recently, a team of scientists developed an original technique that predicts and guides the ordered creation of strong, yet flexible, diamond nanothreads, surmounting several existing challenges. The innovation will make it easier for scientists to synthesize the nanothreads -- an important step toward applying the material to practical problems in the future. |
| The physics of fire ant rafts could help engineers design swarming robots Posted: 02 Mar 2022 03:59 PM PST Fire ants survive floods by forming rafts made up of thousands of wriggling insects. New research reveals how these creepy-crawly lifeboats change shape over time. |
| Industrial sedimentation in the North Sea Posted: 02 Mar 2022 03:59 PM PST Researchers investigated changes in pollutant levels in the North Sea over an interval time. The results showed that a diverse cocktail of chemicals has been polluting the environment, especially during the last 100 years. They also found out that a decrease in pollution only became apparent in the environment decades after the substances were banned. |
| New study reveals small-scale renewable energy sources could cause power failures Posted: 02 Mar 2022 12:01 PM PST Renewable energy that feeds into the main power grid could destabilize the system and potentially cause power failures according to a new study. |
| Posted: 02 Mar 2022 10:13 AM PST Promising technologies for converting wastewater into drinkable water produce a chemical compound that can be toxic, corrosive and malodorous. An analysis of one possible solution reveals ways to optimize it for maximum energy efficiency, pollutant removal and resource recovery. |
| The interplay between topology and magnetism has a bright future Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:30 AM PST A new review paper on magnetic topological materials introduces the new theoretical concept that interweave magnetism and topology. |
| Gene Editing gets safer thanks to redesigned Cas9 protein Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:06 AM PST Scientists have redesigned a key component of a widely used CRISPR-based gene-editing tool, called Cas9, to be thousands of times less likely to target the wrong stretch of DNA while remaining just as efficient as the original version, making it potentially much safer. |
| Taking a systems approach to cyber security Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:06 AM PST A new study proposes a framework featuring a more holistic picture of the cybersecurity landscape, along with a model that explicitly represents multiple dimensions of the potential impacts of successful cyberattacks. |
| Cocoa does not appear to reduce exercise-related digestive distress Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:06 AM PST Impressive athleticism was on display during the Winter Olympics, but being at the top of one's game doesn't necessarily protect against digestive distress resulting from exercise. Surprisingly, some people are adding cocoa to their diets to reduce these symptoms. Now, researchers report that long-term daily consumption of cocoa doesn't appear to improve exercise-related digestive issues in male athletes and induces only minimal changes to their gut microbiomes. |
| Mucus could explain why SARS-CoV-2 doesn't spread easily from surfaces Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:06 AM PST Early in the pandemic, many people fastidiously disinfected surfaces because laboratory studies predicted that SARS-CoV-2 could be easily transmitted in this way. Now, researchers have found a possible explanation for why the predictions didn't pan out: Sugar-decorated proteins in mucus could bind to the coronavirus on surfaces, keeping it from infecting cells. The findings could also hint at why some people are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than others. |
| Plasma accelerators recover in a FLASH Posted: 02 Mar 2022 08:05 AM PST Scientists have demonstrated at the FLASHForward experiment that in principle it is possible to operate plasma accelerators at the repetition rates desired by particle physicists and photon scientists. This opens the opportunity to utilize such high-gradient accelerators as booster stages in existing high-repetition-rate facilities, such as the large-scale X-ray free-electron lasers FLASH and European XFEL, in order to significantly increase the energy of long trains of particles in short distances. |
| How to make a 'computer' out of liquid crystals Posted: 02 Mar 2022 06:27 AM PST Researchers have shown for the first time how to design the basic elements needed for logic operations using a kind of material called a liquid crystal -- paving the way for a completely novel way of performing computations. |
| Bonding exercise: Quantifying biexciton binding energy Posted: 02 Mar 2022 06:27 AM PST A rare spectroscopy technique directly quantifies the energy required to bind two excitons together. The experiment harnessed interactions between real and virtual states to 'switch' the electronic state of an atomically-thin (2D) material. As well as improving fundamental understanding of biexciton dynamics and exotic new quantum materials, the study aids work towards biexciton-based devices such as compact lasers and chemical-sensors, and the search for future low-energy electronics based on topological materials. |
| A 'greener' way to clean wastewater treatment filters Posted: 02 Mar 2022 06:26 AM PST Membrane filters don't require much energy to purify water, making them popular for wastewater treatment. To keep these materials in tip-top condition, they're commonly cleaned with large amounts of strong chemicals, but some of these agents destroy the membranes in the process. Now, researchers have developed reusable nanoparticle catalysts that incorporate glucose to help efficiently break down contaminants inside these filters without damaging them. |
| Ultrathin films for stretchable and sturdy bioelectronic membranes Posted: 01 Mar 2022 05:56 PM PST Researchers have developed a unique design of ultrathin films for highly flexible yet mechanically robust bioelectronic membranes that could pave the way for diagnostic on-skin sensors that fit precisely over the body's contours and conform to its movements. |
| New research advances wearable medical sensors Posted: 01 Mar 2022 05:54 PM PST Monitoring vitals and diagnosing ailments can be clunky, painful and inconvenient. But researchers are now working to improve health monitoring by creating wearable sensors that collect data for clinicians while limiting discomfort for patients. |
| Small water samples can find really big animals Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:11 AM PST Scientists used an emerging genetic tool that analyzes DNA in water samples to detect whales and dolphins in New York waters. |
| Green chemistry: Scientists develop new process for more eco-friendly liquid crystals Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:11 AM PST Liquid crystals could soon be produced more efficiently and in a more environmentally friendly way. A new process has been developed. Compared to conventional methods, it is faster, more energy-efficient and promises a high yield. Liquid crystals are used in most smartphone, tablet and computer displays. |
| For new insights into aerodynamics, scientists turn to paper airplanes Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:11 AM PST A series of experiments using paper airplanes reveals new aerodynamic effects, a team of scientists has discovered. Its findings enhance our understanding of flight stability and could inspire new types of flying robots and small drones. |
| These solar panels pull in water vapor to grow crops in the desert Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:10 AM PST Using a unique hydrogel, scientists have created a solar-driven system that successfully grows spinach by using water drawn from the air while producing electricity. The proof-of-concept design offers a sustainable, low-cost strategy to improve food and water security for people living in dry-climate regions. |
| Cloth masks inferior for protection against airborne viral spread Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:10 AM PST A new study examines the efficacy of particle filtration by woven fabric, which consists of fibers twisted together into yarns. There are, therefore, two lengthscales: the diameters of the fiber and the yarn. Using 3D imagery produced by confocal microscopy to see the air flow channels, the scientists simulate the airflow through these channels and calculate filtration efficiency for particles a micrometer and larger in diameter. The study concludes for particles in this size range, the filtration efficiency is low. |
| Seeing below the surface of bimetallic nanoparticles Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:10 AM PST Researchers reported an acoustic method for the real time tracking of metal deposition in the formation of bimetallic core-shell nanoparticles. The shape of the formed particles indicated the internal structure and was determined from changes in the acoustic resistance of a piezoelectric resonator owing to interparticle distance variation. It is hoped that the control of nanoparticle structure made possible by the analysis method will allow the preparation of bespoke materials for sensing. |
| Double locked: Polymer hydrogels secure confidential information Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:10 AM PST The development of highly secure but simple and inexpensive encryption technology for the prevention of data leaks and forgeries is decidedly challenging. A research team has now introduced a 'double lock' based on thermoresponsive polymer hydrogels that encrypts information so that it can only be read at a specific window in temperature and time. |
| What’s happening in the depths of distant worlds? Posted: 01 Mar 2022 10:10 AM PST The physics and chemistry that take place deep inside our planet are fundamental to the existence of life as we know it. But what forces are at work in the interiors of distant worlds, and how do these conditions affect their potential for habitability? New work uses lab-based mimicry to reveal a new crystal structure that has major implications for our understanding of the interiors of large, rocky exoplanets. |
| Researchers develop procedure to interpret x-ray emission spectra of liquid water Posted: 01 Mar 2022 06:37 AM PST Water is an abundant and essential compound, found everywhere on Earth. Yet despite its familiarity and simple structure, water displays many unusual physical properties. For more than a century, scientists have turned their attention to the study of water, attempting to better interpret its structure. |
| Tiny tire particles inhibit growth of organisms in freshwater, coastal estuaries, studies find Posted: 01 Mar 2022 06:36 AM PST Small particles from tires inhibited the growth and caused adverse behavioral changes in organisms found in freshwater and coastal estuary ecosystems, two new research papers found. |
| Surprising semiconductor properties revealed with innovative new method Posted: 01 Mar 2022 06:36 AM PST Semiconductor experiments reveal a surprising new source of conductivity from oxygen atoms trapped inside the material. |
| Ultrasound scan can diagnose prostate cancer Posted: 28 Feb 2022 03:40 PM PST An ultrasound scan can be used to detect cases of prostate cancer, according to new research. |
| New optical tweezers put on the pressure to change color Posted: 28 Feb 2022 02:20 PM PST Scientists demonstrate an optical trapping technique using nanotextured black silicon that can efficiently trap polymer chains. By adjusting the laser intensity, these 'optical tweezers' can control the florescence color emitted through a local concentration of a perylene-modified polymer solution. From a low intensity blue to high intensity orange, this reversible and fully remote technology can almost reach the entire RGB spectrum. |
| New screening system may point the way to clean, renewable hydrogen power Posted: 28 Feb 2022 02:20 PM PST A new, highly sensitive system for detecting the production of hydrogen gas may play an important role in the quest to develop hydrogen as an environmentally friendly and economical alternative to fossil fuels. |
| Researchers establish first-of-its-kind framework to diagnose 3D-printing errors Posted: 28 Feb 2022 02:20 PM PST Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, can create custom parts for electromagnetic devices on-demand and at a low cost. These devices are highly sensitive, and each component requires precise fabrication. Until recently, though, the only way to diagnose printing errors was to make, measure and test a device or to use in-line simulation, both of which are computationally expensive and inefficient. |
| Scaling laws in enzymes may help predict life 'as we don't know it' Posted: 28 Feb 2022 01:16 PM PST A team of researchers is developing tools to predict the features of life as we don't know it. In a new study, they identify universal patterns in the chemistry of life that do not appear to depend on specific molecules. |
| New approach to flexible robotics and metamaterials design mimics nature, encourages sustainability Posted: 28 Feb 2022 12:06 PM PST A new study challenges the conventional approach to designing soft robotics and a class of materials called metamaterials by utilizing the power of computer algorithms. Researchers can now build multimaterial structures without dependence on human intuition or trial-and-error to produce highly efficient actuators and energy absorbers that mimic designs found in nature. |
| Physicists bring a once-theoretical effect of quantum matter into observable reality Posted: 28 Feb 2022 12:06 PM PST Physicists have experimentally observed a quirky behavior of the quantum world: a 'quantum boomerang' effect that occurs when particles in a disordered system are kicked out of their locations. Instead of landing elsewhere as one might expect, they turn around and come back to where they started and stop there. |
| Under pressure: A new theory lets us predict when soft materials will fail Posted: 28 Feb 2022 12:06 PM PST Researchers recently announced a major theoretical and experimental breakthrough that allows scientists to predict, with an unprecedented precision, when a soft material will crack and fail. The findings have immediate implications for the engineering and manufacture of a wide range of polymers. They also provide insights into how natural soft materials -- such as the connective tissues in our bodies and even our brains -- break down. |
| Team uses MRI to image epigenetics in the brain Posted: 28 Feb 2022 12:06 PM PST A multidisciplinary team has devised a new approach to 3D imaging that captures DNA methylation, a key epigenetic change associated with learning in the brain. The scientists say their proof-of-concept study in pigs will easily translate to humans, as the new method relies on standard MRI technology and biological markers already in use in human medicine. |
| Clues to better batteries emerge from tracking lithium Posted: 28 Feb 2022 09:56 AM PST A new study tracked lithium metal deposition and removal from a battery anode while it was cycling to find clues as to how failure occurs. The research could help improve the use of pure lithium metal in anodes for electric vehicle batteries, which would reduce battery weights and dramatically extend driving range. |
| Metasurface-based antenna turns ambient radio waves into electric power Posted: 28 Feb 2022 08:44 AM PST Researchers report that lab tests of a new metasurface-based antenna that can harvest 100 microwatts of power, enough to power simple devices, from low power radio waves. This represents an important step toward making it practical to harvest energy from radio waves, such as the ones used in cell phone networks or Bluetooth connections. |
| Spintronics: Innovative crystals for future computer electronics Posted: 28 Feb 2022 08:43 AM PST Computer chips and storage elements are expected to function as quickly as possible and be energy-saving at the same time. Innovative spintronic modules are at an advantage here thanks to their high speed and efficiency, as there is no lossy electrical current, rather the electrons couple with one another magnetically -- like a series of tiny magnetic needles which interact with almost no friction loss. A team of scientists has now found promising properties with crystals grown from rare-earth atoms, which offer hope on the long path towards usage as spintronic components. |
| Posted: 28 Feb 2022 08:43 AM PST Hydrogels have an astonishing ability to swell and take on water. In daily life, they are used in dressings, nappies, and more to lock moisture away. A team of researchers has now found another use: quickly extracting large amounts of freshwater from air using a specially developed hydrogel containing a hygroscopic salt. The study shows that the salt enhances the moisture uptake of the gel, making it suitable for water harvesting in dry regions. |
| New, nature-inspired concepts for turning CO2 into clean fuels Posted: 28 Feb 2022 08:43 AM PST Researchers have developed an efficient concept to turn carbon dioxide into clean, sustainable fuels, without any unwanted by-products or waste. |
| Separator key when it comes to 'stable' vs. 'safe' battery Posted: 28 Feb 2022 07:38 AM PST Researchers have discovered the key to making a stable, safe battery. |
| A potential breakthrough for production of superior battery technology Posted: 28 Feb 2022 06:11 AM PST Micro supercapacitors could revolutionize the way we use batteries by increasing their lifespan and enabling extremely fast charging. Manufacturers of everything from smartphones to electric cars are therefore investing heavily into research and development of these electronic components. Now, researchers have developed a method that represents a breakthrough for how such supercapacitors can be produced. |
| Posted: 28 Feb 2022 06:11 AM PST Researchers have developed and tested a new imaging approach they say will accelerate imaging-based research in the lab by allowing investigators to capture images of blood vessels at different spatial scales. |
| Posted: 25 Feb 2022 01:33 PM PST Researchers detail a breakthrough discovery in nanomaterials and light-wave interactions that paves the way for development of small, low-energy optical computers capable of advanced computing. |
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