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ETH Zurich


A society divided by reconstruction

The reconstruction of Banda Aceh after the 2004 tsunami has led to socio-economic segregation, with lower-income residents facing increased exposure to coastal hazards. The study found that many tsunami survivors preferred to move inland, but were unable to afford it, leading to a divide between affluent and poorer residents.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 12, 2018

Earthquakes as a driver for the deep-ocean carbon cycle

Researchers used new dating methods to study dynamic sediment remobilisation processes triggered by seismic activity in the Japan Trench. The methods enabled precise analysis of organic matter in individual sediment layers, revealing key findings about the history of earthquakes and the carbon cycle in the deep ocean.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2018

Extremely bright and fast light emission

Researchers discovered that caesium lead halide nanocrystals emit light at room temperature after just one nanosecond, making them faster and brighter than other quantum dots. This is due to their unique excited energy state, which allows for immediate light emission, unlike traditional quantum dots that rely on a dark state.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 2018

Intoxicatingly light sensitive

Scientists at ETH Zurich have synthesised four variants of THC that can be altered with light, offering a potential tool for controlling and influencing CB1 receptors. These light-sensitive THC derivatives were tested in living cell cultures and found to activate and deactivate the receptors using specific wavelengths of light.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 10, 2018

A look into the fourth dimension

Researchers from ETH Zurich, USA, Germany, Italy, and Israel create a four-dimensional physical phenomenon in two dimensions using the quantum Hall effect. The team, led by Oded Zilberberg, demonstrates a virtual fourth dimension through topological pumping, enabling the observation of four-dimensional quantum Hall effect characteristics.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2018

3-D-printed minifactories

A team of ETH researchers created a novel 3D printing platform that utilizes living matter to produce mini biochemical factories with various properties. The platform uses bacteria-containing ink to create objects with specific characteristics, such as biodegradable materials and sensors for toxic substances.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 1, 2017

Neutrophil-inspired propulsion

Researchers have created a novel system that enables aggregates composed of magnetized particles to roll along a channel using a combined acoustic and magnetic field. The system has shown promise for delivering drugs to hard-to-reach sites within the body, with potential applications in cancer treatment.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017

Zipping DNA

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to compress and decompress DNA, enabling the efficient transfer of large amounts of genetic information into cells. This innovation has potential applications in synthetic biology, biotechnology, and cancer research, improving diagnosis accuracy and treatment outcomes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 13, 2017

Exit through the lymphatic system

Researchers at ETH Zurich have identified that cerebrospinal fluid exits the cranial cavity through lymph vessels in mice, rewriting anatomy textbooks. The study found that this pathway is responsible for flushing out unwanted substances and may offer a starting point for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 2017

Transforming fibrils into crystals

An international team of experts has made a fundamental discovery by transforming amyloid fibrils into crystals, a process previously thought to be impossible. The transformation involves untwisting the fibril to form an elongated, matchstick-like crystal with unprecedented stability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2017

How songbirds learn a new song

Researchers found that songbirds break down the complex task of learning a new song into manageable parts, using a strategy similar to computer algorithms. This approach allows them to adapt their songs with minimal effort and expand their repertoire.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2017

The world's shortest laser pulse

Researchers at ETH Zurich generate the world's shortest controlled laser pulse with a duration of 43 attoseconds, allowing for unprecedented time resolution in studying molecular dynamics. This breakthrough enables faster charge transfer and potentially more efficient solar cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 31, 2017

How much does life weigh?

Researchers have created a novel cell scale that enables measuring the mass of living cells with high resolution and monitoring their weight changes over time. This allows tracking of fluctuations during the cell cycle, substance influence on cell mass, and viral infection effects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateOct 26, 2017

Breath instead of a blood test

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2017

Magma chambers have a sponge-like structure

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that supervolcano magma chambers contain a mixture of liquid and crystalline magma. The chambers may exhibit a sponge-like texture, with a mesh structure of crystallised rock and pores containing molten material.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 5, 2017

Clumps as temporary storage

Researchers discovered that yeast cells form protein aggregates in response to stress, which are then dissolved when the stress passes. The aggregates serve as a protective mechanism for essential enzymes, enabling the cell to quickly recover from stress.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateOct 3, 2017

Biodegradable microsensors for food monitoring

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created biocompatible microsensors made from magnesium wire and compostable polymer for temperature measurement in food products. The sensors are thin, flexible, and can function for up to 67 days before dissolving, making them suitable for monitoring fish shipments.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 28, 2017

Holograms for molecules

Scientists at ETH Zurich and Roche have developed a new diagnostic method using light diffraction on molecules, allowing for quick and easy disease detection in doctors' offices. The technique uses molecular recognition and focused laser light to identify specific protein interactions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 25, 2017

Rapid imaging of granular matter

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new technique using magnetic resonance imaging to study granular systems, enabling real-time imaging and measurement of particle velocities. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields such as carbon capture and could lead to higher efficiency and energy savings.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 21, 2017

A dream of foam

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a way to control Ostwald ripening in foams, which causes undesirable changes in texture and weakens product performance. By using networked particles as stabilizers, they can prevent or stop this process, leading to more effective and controlled foam stability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2017

Fast magnetic writing of data

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully developed a novel method to rapidly and efficiently write data onto magnetic carriers using a spin-orbit-torque technique. The technique involves the application of electric current pulses through an adjacent wire, which causes magnetization inversion without the need for coils.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 7, 2017

Green light for ultra-fine display colors

Scientists have made a breakthrough in producing ultra-pure green light for high-resolution displays, exceeding 97-99% of the Rec.2020 standard. The new technology uses simple room-temperature processes and inexpensive materials, paving the way for low-cost industrial production.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 6, 2017

How a bacterium can live on methanol

A team of scientists has identified all the genes required for Methylobacterium extorquens to live on methanol. The bacterium can use either larger carbon molecules or methanol from plants as a nutrient, depending on availability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2017

Bacteria stab amoebae with micro-daggers

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a mechanism used by bacteria Amoebophilus to shoot micro-daggers that pierce the digestive compartment of an amoeba, allowing it to escape digestion and thrive. The study reveals new insights into bacterial evolution and opens up possibilities for other structural biology investigations.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2017

Multi-nutrient rice against malnutrition

Researchers have successfully created a multi-nutrient rice variety that produces iron, zinc, and beta-carotene, addressing micronutrient deficiencies. The new rice lines could provide a solution to hidden hunger in Asia and Africa if they are widely adopted.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Clarifiying complex chemical processes with quantum computers

Researchers from ETH Zurich and Microsoft Research demonstrate that quantum computers can evaluate complex chemical reactions scientifically relevant results. Quantum computers can potentially calculate the reaction mechanism of nitrogenase step by step, but they will serve as a supplement to classical computers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2017

Unbalanced wind farm planning exacerbates fluctuations

A new study reveals that Europe's wind energy capacity is concentrated in the North Sea region, leading to extreme fluctuations. Cooperating countries can balance capacity across the continent to minimize these fluctuations. However, expanding solar energy capacity tenfold would be required to compensate for longer-term fluctuations.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 17, 2017

Testing a soft artificial heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a soft artificial heart made from silicone that mimics the human heart's form and function. The device lasts only 3,000 beats but paves the way for future improvements in artificial hearts.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalArtificial Organs·DateJul 13, 2017

Universal stabilization

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a new type of silica particle that can stabilize both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions using a single type of emulsifier. The particles' rough surface reduces their mobility, allowing them to form a stabilizing armour around droplets.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2017

Hybrid membrane creates a stir on the global market

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a simple yet effective hybrid filter that can remove heavy metals, radioactive waste, bacteria, and other toxic substances from polluted water. The membrane is made of denatured whey proteins and activated charcoal and has been patented in 90 countries.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalChemical Communications·DateJun 13, 2017

Fighting fire blight and detecting Salmonella

Researchers have developed a new method to control fire blight by using a genetically modified bacteriophage (Y2) that can dissolve the slime layer protecting the Erwinia bacteria and kill it. Additionally, another variant of Y2 has been engineered to detect Salmonella by emitting light when bound to infected bacteria.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 13, 2017

How killer cells take out tumors

F8-TNF stimulates killer cells to target sarcomas by identifying them through dormant viral proteins, offering a new avenue for cancer immunotherapy. The treatment has been shown to completely cure mice of sarcoma and grant immune protection against tumor recurrence.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 6, 2017

Detailed view of a molecular toxin transporter

Researchers from ETH Zurich have defined the three-dimensional structure of ABCG2, a human multi-drug transporter. The protein recognizes and transports over 200 substances, including toxins and medications, making it a double-edged sword in cancer treatment and drug development.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMay 29, 2017

City model created from images alone

VarCity technology uses machine learning to analyze images and videos, creating precise 3D models of cities. The platform can recognize buildings, streets, and traffic patterns in real-time, making it useful for urban planning and management.

Understanding changes in extreme precipitation

A study by ETH Zurich researchers reveals that regional variability plays a key role in extreme precipitation, with increasing atmospheric moisture and weaker vertical wind velocities contributing to differences. The decomposition of projections highlights weaknesses in existing climate models and provides insights into where to focus ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 15, 2017

Fabrication technology in the fourth dimension

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a construction principle for controlling the deformation of 4D printed objects, which can support weight and change shape in response to external stimuli. The technology has potential applications in aerospace, medical devices, and more.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 8, 2017

Nanoparticles remain unpredictable

Researchers analyzed 270 studies and found a mixed picture of nanoparticles' behavior, with their reactions depending on acidity, mineral concentration, and organic substances. The data is inconsistent, insufficiently diverse, and poorly structured, hindering universal predictions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2017

Chaining up diarrhea pathogens

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered that vaccine-induced IgA antibodies 'enchain' bacteria in the intestine, forming clumps that prevent disease and genetic exchange of resistant genes. This approach could lead to a new strategy for intestinal infections, including farm animal vaccination and potential human applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2017

Platelets instead of quantum dots

Researchers at ETH Zurich have solved the mystery of producing nanoplatelets, which are flat, uniform crystals with striking colors. The team developed a theoretical model and experimentally confirmed its predictions, paving the way for alternative materials to quantum dots in displays and solar cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 4, 2017

Nanomagnets for future data storage

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to create nanoparticles with dysprosium atoms that can be magnetised and maintain their magnetic information. The scientists are now looking to stabilise the magnetisation at higher temperatures and longer periods of time.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 30, 2017

Inflammation awakens sleepers

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that inflammation triggers the transfer of phage genes to Salmonella bacteria, increasing their pathogenicity. Vaccination can prevent this process, alleviating the risk of phage release.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2017

How plankton cope with turbulence

Researchers discovered how plankton cope with turbulent layers in the ocean. Plankton cells change their shape from asymmetric to egg-shaped structures, allowing them to swim downwards and avoid damage. This adaptation provides an evolutionary advantage for the population, as only half of the cells are affected by turbulence.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2017

Liquid fuel for future computers

Researchers at ETH Zurich and IBM Research Zurich have built a tiny redox flow battery that supplies electrical power and cools computer chip stacks simultaneously. The new micro-battery reaches record-high output and has potential applications in lasers, solar cells, and large energy storage systems.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 15, 2017

Earth is bombarded at random

Researchers refuted the theory that asteroids hit Earth every 26 million years, as previously suggested by US researchers. Instead, they found that impact craters formed over a wide range of ages and were not clustered in time.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 7, 2017

Rare proteins collapse earlier

A team of researchers led by Paola Picotti found that only a small fraction of key proteins denature at high temperatures, contradicting previous assumptions. This discovery has implications for understanding protein stability and potentially improving the performance of heat-resistant bacteria for industrial processes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2017

Sustainable ceramics without a kiln

Material scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to manufacture ceramics without heat, using calcium carbonate nanoparticles compacted with water. The resulting material is stronger than concrete and as stiff as stone, with potential applications in sustainable construction and energy storage.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2017