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American Institute of Physics


The physics of ocean undertow

A new paper in Physics of Fluids provides a more consistent way to describe the forces acting on waves and undertows. The researchers found that different approaches were due to incorrect handling of weak forces, not methodology. This advance enables better models for predicting beach erosion and can help preserve shorelines.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 13, 2014

Predator-prey made simple

Researchers developed a way to simplify modeling of 'bistable' systems, involving two evolving species with different timescales. This new approach can accurately predict population dynamics and time to extinction in predator-prey models.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateMay 6, 2014

Working to cure 'dry eye' disease

A team of mathematicians and optometrists developed a mathematical model to better understand the inner workings of tear film distribution over the eye's surface. Their findings suggest that it takes a blink to redistribute tear film, which may aid in the development of better treatments for dry eye disease.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 6, 2014

Proving uncertainty: New insight into old problem

Researchers provide first rigorous formulation supporting Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, enabling precise characterization of information accessible in quantum experiments. The work highlights the fundamental limits of measurements in quantum physics and may corroborate the security of quantum cryptographic protocols.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateApr 29, 2014

Future computers that are 'normally off'

A research team in Japan has developed a spintronics-based technology that could replace volatile memory, enabling extremely energy-efficient devices powered by hand-crank or solar panels. The technology uses non-volatile function of advanced spin-transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-MRAM) to create 'normally off'...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 8, 2014

Wind energy: On the grid, off the checkerboard

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a new method to study wake effects in wind farms, challenging conventional wisdom on the best arrangement of turbines. They found that an 'intermediate' staggering, where rows are imperfectly offset, can improve power output in some cases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateApr 1, 2014

New view of supernova death throes

A new three-dimensional model of supernova collapse reveals the role of turbulent mixing in expanding, contracting and ejecting elements before explosion. This breakthrough insight into the death throes of stars sheds light on the formation of elements necessary for life on Earth.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMar 18, 2014

What makes flying snakes such gifted gliders?

A team of researchers used computer simulations to study the aerodynamics of flying snakes, discovering that whirls of wind surrounding the snake's body provide an extra boost of lift. This unique shape helps the snake glide efficiently through the air, making it a fascinating example of nature's efficient design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 4, 2014

Scientists twist sound with metamaterials

Researchers have created an acoustic field rotator, a device that manipulates sound waves, using metamaterials. The device can rotate sound waves in a manner similar to electromagnetic or liquid wave counterparts, which could improve the operation of medical ultrasound machines and enhance image quality.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 25, 2014

Clutter cutter

Researchers created computer models using PySB framework to explore biochemical processes driving cancer growth. The models aim to identify what goes wrong in cancer cells' self-destruction signals, potentially leading to novel therapies.

The secret of fertile sperm

A team of Bay Area researchers explores factors that differentiate fertile sperm from infertile sperm, identifying crucial proteins known as ion channels critical for sperm fertility. The discovery may lead to the development of new diagnostic testing and treatments for male infertility.

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

New way to measure electron pair interactions

Researchers at Max Planck Institute in Germany develop new way to measure electron pair emission directly on a standard lab bench using time-of-flight spectrometers. This breakthrough allows for the quantification of electron correlation strength, crucial for designing novel materials with desirable properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 11, 2014

Clot-busters, caught on tape

Researchers used high-speed photography to study how ultrasound-stimulated microbubbles dissolve killer blood clots. The team found that the bubbles deform the clots' boundaries before burrowing into them, creating fluid-filled tunnels that break up the clots from the inside out.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 13, 2013

'Valley Girl' dialect expanding to males

New research shows Valley Girl dialect, known for rising pitch at the ends of sentences, is expanding to other demographic groups, including males. The study identified distinct melodic vocal patterns distinguishing uptalk questions from statements, busting stereotypes about insecurity and non-intellectualism associated with the dialect.

Quieting rail transit

Researchers found that new vibration absorbers can reduce wheel squeal in public rail systems, but had a modest impact on rolling noise. The devices attach to the wheels or tracks of rail transit systems and may be effective in reducing wheel squeal, but more testing is needed to fully understand their effectiveness.

What a Formula 1 race does to your eardrums

Researchers measured sound levels at a Formula 1 track and found that without protection, spectators could reach 234% or 85.85 dB of their daily allowed noise dosage going by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. The study suggests wearing good hearing protection is essential to avoid permanent damage.

Silent stalkers of dark ocean waters

Research suggests that killer whales eavesdrop on sounds generated by their marine mammal prey to locate and hunt them in dark waters. A two-year study in Alaska using acoustic recording tags found evidence of nighttime hunting, debunking previous assumptions about the animals' reliance on echolocation.

Sounding tall

Researchers found that listeners can accurately determine the relative heights of speakers just by listening to them talk, thanks to specific sounds produced in the lower airways. The key clue lies in subglottal resonances, which become progressively lower with increasing height.

New thermoelectronic generator

Researchers have developed a highly efficient thermoelectronic generator that can convert heat and solar energy into electricity without mechanical parts. The new design solves the space-charge problem, achieving efficiencies of up to 40%, paving the way for potential commercial applications in the renewable energy sector.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateDec 3, 2013

Better combustion through plasma

Researchers have discovered that introducing plasma to combustion reactions can sustain flames in conditions where they would normally be extinguished. This technology could significantly improve the efficiency of military jets, passenger planes, and unmanned drones by conserving fuel and extending flight times.

The physics of beer tapping

Researchers explore beer bottle-fluid interactions using cavitation analysis, explaining the formation of foam due to rapid expansion of smaller bubbles. The study's findings can be applied to other engineering concerns, such as erosion of ship propellers and carbon dioxide release in natural disasters.