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American Institute of Physics


Slip-and-slide power generators

A new technology harnesses power from a single droplet sliding along an electret film, producing electricity when it reaches maximum velocity. The device has potential for low-power portable devices and human body motion harvesting, with a prototype demonstrating peak output power of 0.18 microwatts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 24, 2012

Return of the vacuum tube

Researchers developed a tiny vacuum channel transistor with applications in hazardous sensing, medical diagnostics, and telecommunications; the device operates at low voltages, making it competitive with semiconductor technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 18, 2012

Mining for heat

A study by McGill University researchers calculates that each kilometer of a deep underground mine could produce 150 kW of heat, enough to warm 5-10 Canadian households. The team develops a general model for predicting geothermal energy potential in other mines.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 2, 2012

Tiny channel cleanses blood

Researchers at MIT and NUS have developed a microfluidic system that uses natural margination to separate red blood cells from unwanted cellular components. The system demonstrates highly efficient removal of bacteria and inflammatory cells, with potential applications in treating sepsis.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateMay 2, 2012

Electronic nose out in front

A new DNA-based chemical sensor has been developed, capable of discriminating between very similar molecules, even at low concentrations. The system uses carbon nanotubes and fine-tuned DNA strands to produce a measurable electrical signal when exposed to target chemicals.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMay 2, 2012

Androgen suppression

A new mathematical model predicts optimal treatment length for prostate cancer patients to delay resistance, allowing clinicians to tailor therapy effectively. Intermittent androgen suppression therapy reduces side effects and improves patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMar 27, 2012

Wind turbines that learn like humans

Researchers developed a biologically inspired control system that uses memory of past control experiences and outcomes to generate new actions. This approach shows promise for enhancing wind power conversion efficiency, outperforming traditional methods in simulations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMar 27, 2012

Quantum effects and cancer

Researchers propose that quantum metabolism explains metabolic changes causing healthy cells to become cancerous, enabling cells to outcompete for space and nutrients. Understanding this process could lead to new cancer treatment approaches.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMar 27, 2012

Proteins behaving badly

Researchers have developed an algorithm to predict how and when proteins misfold, leading to neurodegenerative diseases. The algorithm helps scientists understand protein dynamics and may aid in developing treatments for currently incurable diseases.

Woodchucks and sudden cardiac death

Researchers found that hibernating woodchucks have a higher resistance to cardiac arrhythmias due to their unique calcium handling properties. This insight may suggest new strategies for protecting non-hibernating animals from fatal cardiac arrhythmias induced by hypothermic stresses and myocardial ischemia.

A change of heart

Researchers have discovered a crucial link between mitochondrial function and heart damage caused by chronic alcoholism. Using electron microscopic tomography, the team created the first 3D images of mitochondria, revealing tiny tethers linking them to another cell compartment where calcium is stored.

Protein assassin

Scientists have found that the unfolded end of a protein, ColN-T, can still kill E. coli-like bacteria even after its toxic folded portion is removed. This discovery may lead to new, targeted ways to kill antibiotic-resistant microbes.

New 'soft' motor made from artificial muscles

The team's proof-of-concept motor utilizes carbon-based switches to activate artificial muscles, which then rotate a shaft without external electronics or hard metal parts. The device has the potential to open doors for softer, lighter electrostatic motors with applications in prosthetics and soft robots.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 15, 2012