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ETH Zurich


How to make bright quantum dots even brighter

Perovskite quantum dots made brighter by surface treatment with phospholipids, enabling higher photon emission rates. Coherent coupling of exciton dipoles boosts superradiance, making the dots even brighter for quantum technologies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2024

Artificial muscles – lighter, safer, more robust

Researchers have created artificial muscles that contract in response to electrical impulses, using a liquid-filled pouch with electrodes. The HALVE actuators can store energy well, lift weights, and are now waterproof and more robust than previous models.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2024

A virus that kills sleepers

Researchers at ETH Zurich have identified a virus called Paride that can infect and destroy dormant bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study found that the combination of Paride and an antibiotic called meropenem was effective in killing bacteria in both laboratory cultures and mice with chronic infections.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024

Clarifying the cause of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Researchers uncover pivotal aspect of GBS pathophysiology, revealing autoreactive T lymphocytes invade nerve tissue and target myelin. The findings provide novel insights into understanding GBS, opening avenues for targeted therapies for specific subtypes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024

Long live the graphene valley state

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a potential platform for spin qubits in bilayer graphene, with ultra-long-lived valley states. The study finds that the valley degree of freedom in BLG is associated with quantum states that can survive for over half a second.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 17, 2024

Capturing greenhouse gases with the help of light

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to capture CO2 using photoacids that react to light. The process can switch between acidic and alkaline states rapidly, allowing for quick carbon capture and release. This method requires less energy than existing technologies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2024

Accurate snow measurement thanks to AI and satellites

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new technology using satellite images and artificial intelligence to determine snow depth with high accuracy. The system can provide detailed snow distribution patterns, even for areas without existing measurements, and offers an indication of uncertainty.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2023

Riding sound waves in the brain

Scientists at ETH Zurich successfully navigate gas-filled microbubbles through the brain's blood vessels using ultrasound, offering a potential breakthrough in delivering medications to specific areas. This technology could revolutionize treatments for cancer, stroke, and neurological conditions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

Watching electrons at work

The study reveals that excited electrons in perovskites cause a shift towards increased symmetry in the crystal lattice. This attractive interaction between excitons could be exploited to enhance electron transport and improve solar cell performance.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2023

Replicating the structure of bird feathers

Researchers at ETH Zurich replicate the structural design of bluebird feathers using a new method. The material exhibits nanonetworks similar to those found in natural feathers and offers potential for technical and sustainable applications, including battery improvements and water filtration.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2023

Digital emblem for humanitarian law in cyberspace

The ETH Zurich-developed Authentic Digital EMblem (ADEM) aims to protect humanitarian organizations' digital infrastructure from cyberattacks. The system uses a combination of security protocols, including web PKI and CT ecosystem, to ensure authenticity, accountability, and covert inspection.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the ACM·DateNov 29, 2023

Molecular cooperation at the threshold of life

Amyloids have been found to selectively bind with codon-sized RNA, a crucial step in the emergence of life. These interactions may represent a universal genetic code that unites all living beings, increasing stability and order in an otherwise dilute system.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 27, 2023

Autonomous excavator constructs a 6-meter-high dry-stone wall

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed an autonomous excavator called HEAP to construct a 6-meter-high and 65-meter-long dry-stone wall. The excavator uses sensors, machine vision, and algorithms to place stones in the desired location, achieving a high level of precision and speed.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023

Halting a malformation of the heart

A team of scientists has identified the molecular switches involved in halting heart malformations, which could lead to new treatments for tetralogy of Fallot. By targeting the BBLN protein, they aim to prevent defects in four critical areas of the heart.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023

When growth becomes a weakness

Cancer cells' uncontrolled growth leads to a loss of ability to divide due to genetic damage accumulation. Simultaneous treatment with growth and division inhibitors can restore cellular function.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023

A new kind of magnetism

Researchers at ETH Zurich detected a new type of ferromagnetism in an artificially produced material, where magnetic moments align due to kinetic energy minimization. The material exhibits ferromagnetic behavior when electrons form 'doublons' and spread out through quantum mechanical tunnelling.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2023

An ammonia trail to exoplanets

A team of researchers has detected ammonia isotopologues in the atmosphere of a cold brown dwarf, providing new clues to understanding gas giant formation. The ratio of two isotopologues reveals that the exoplanet formed through gravitational collapse, challenging traditional theories.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateNov 7, 2023

3D printed reactor core makes solar fuel production more efficient

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel 3D printing methodology to manufacture porous ceramic structures for efficient solar radiation transport, resulting in twice as much fuel production as uniform structures. The technology has the potential to improve sustainable aviation fuels' economic viability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateOct 27, 2023

Mystery of the Martian core solved

Researchers at ETH Zurich analyze Mars' seismic data and computer simulations to determine the planet's interior structure. They discover a layer of liquid silicate (magma) about 150 km thick between the core and mantle, contradicting initial estimates of the Martian core's density.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateOct 25, 2023

Generating clean electricity with chicken feathers

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a new, environmentally friendly fuel cell membrane made from chicken feathers. The keratin-based membrane replaces toxic substances and reduces carbon emissions. This breakthrough could enable the widespread adoption of hydrogen power as a sustainable energy source.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalInterfaces·DateOct 20, 2023

Increased deep sleep benefits your heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that targeting deep sleep with brief tones increases heart contractions, improving cardiovascular function. This leads to increased blood flow and a more efficient pumping mechanism.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023

Reflecting on one’s values increases success in job search

A 15-minute reflection exercise strengthens job seekers' belief in themselves, making them more effective applicants. The study found that this self-reflection increased the chances of finding a job, even for those over 50 and long-term unemployed.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023

A hygiene program for chromosomes

A new compartment in mammalian cells, the exclusome, has been discovered to house DNA rings that can be ejected from the nucleus. This process helps protect chromosomes from foreign DNA that could disrupt cellular function. The discovery sheds light on a potential link between the exclusome and autoimmune diseases.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·TypeObservational study·DateOct 2, 2023

How a suction cup delivers medications to the bloodstream

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has developed a suction cup capable of delivering large molecule medications like peptides to the bloodstream through the mucosal lining of the cheek. The device uses an endogenous agent to fluidise cell membranes, allowing the drug to penetrate deeper tissue layers and enter the bloodstream directly.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Genetically modifying individual cells in animals

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a method to simultaneously modify multiple genes in individual cells of an animal, allowing for the study of complex diseases. By precisely analyzing these cells, scientists can identify key genes responsible for disease progression, paving the way for potential drug development.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateSep 20, 2023

Ocean acidification in colored stripes

Researchers use ocean acidification stripes to visualize ocean acidification trends worldwide. Studies confirm global decrease in pH and aragonite saturation due to human-made CO2 emissions, posing critical threat to marine ecosystems.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2023

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more deadly

Research reveals that heatwaves like the 2003 European heatwave could become the new norm, with increased mortality risks, especially for the elderly and poor. Ideal temperature ranges vary by location, and climate models predict a significant increase in heat-related deaths in coming years.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 25, 2023

Biodiversity protects against invasions of non-native tree species

A global study reveals that proximity to human activity and native biodiversity are crucial factors in determining the likelihood and severity of non-native tree invasions. Native species help buffer the intensity of these invasions by filling available niches, making it harder for non-native trees to spread.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2023

Cells with an ear for music release insulin

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a gene switch that uses sound waves to trigger insulin release in designer cells. The system works by embedding an ion channel protein from the bacterium E. coli into human cells, which opens in response to sound, causing insulin vesicles to fuse and release insulin.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

How Salmonella grow together in the gut and exchange antibiotic resistance

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that Salmonella bacteria can thrive together in the gut and share information about antibiotic survival mechanisms through a metabolic strategy. This exchange of critical information enables the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes, highlighting the impact of dietary components on promoting this phenomenon.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023

Collecting clean water from fog

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method that collects and purifies water from fog simultaneously, rendering it safe for use in densely populated urban centers. The technology uses a close-mesh lattice coated with polymers and titanium dioxide to break down organic pollutants.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 17, 2023

Building muscle in the lab

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to grow functional human muscle stem cells in the lab using mRNA technology. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for muscular dystrophy and other muscle disorders. The team successfully converted connective tissue cells into muscle stem cells, producing fully functional muscl...

SourceETH Zurich·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateAug 16, 2023

Bear-human coexistence rethought

A new study by Paula Mayer proposes a practical tool for identifying areas of high human-bear conflict in the Abruzzo region. The model considers factors such as habitat suitability, migration corridors, and human-made food resources to inform local measures promoting coexistence.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Treating bladder infections with viruses

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a rapid test that detects bladder infections using bacteriophages, which can identify the pathogenic bacteria in under four hours. The test also allows for tailored phage therapy, predicting patient response and increasing treatment effectiveness.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2023

Robot team on lunar exploration tour

A team of Swiss robots, including legged ANYmal and wheeled robots, is sent to explore a challenging terrain, showcasing the benefits of redundancy and specialization. The robots work together to detect minerals and identify rocks, with semi-autonomous capabilities for direct task assignment.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023

Orexin influences pupil size

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered that orexin neurons directly influence emotional state through pupil size. This finding opens new avenues for medical treatment and diagnosis of sleep disorders like narcolepsy and other neurological conditions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Building models to predict interactions in plant microbiomes

Plant microbiomes have the potential to make agriculture more sustainable, but understanding their complex interactions is crucial. Researchers have developed models that use metabolic capabilities of bacteria to predict how these microbial communities compete or cooperate.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 6, 2023

How urea may have been the gateway to life

Scientists at ETH Zurich and University of Geneva investigate how concentrated urea solutions react to ionizing radiation, revealing fast proton transfer that may have led to emergence of RNA and DNA. The new method allows for high temporal resolution observations of chemical reactions in liquids, relevant to understanding life's origins.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023