Unlocking the secret of the Kondo Effect
Researchers predict when Kondo effect occurs based on magnetic atom geometry, enabling new nanoscale devices. The discovery represents a major advance in understanding this fundamental physical phenomenon.
Metals
Articles tagged with Metals
Best use of drug-eluting stents
Drug-eluting stents should be avoided in patients with diabetes, short lesions, or large vessel sizes due to high restenosis risk. Extended dual antiplatelet therapy also poses bleeding complications, making bare metal stents a safer option for some patients
Caltech bioengineers develop 'microscope on a chip'
Caltech bioengineers create a super-compact high-resolution microscope, small enough to fit on a finger tip, operating without lenses. The optofluidic microscope can be used in the field to analyze blood samples and mass-produced for $10.
Physicists tweak quantum force, reducing barrier to tiny devices
Researchers at the University of Florida have successfully reduced the Casimir force by altering the surface of metal plates, which could help mitigate stiction in microelectromechanical devices. The findings could pave the way for further miniaturization and potentially impact various consumer products.
Tethered molecules act as light-driven reversible nanoswitches
Researchers have developed a technique to attach light-sensitive organic molecules to metal surfaces, enabling reversible switching between two configurations in response to different wavelengths of light. This technology has potential applications in molecular motors, artificial muscles, and molecular electronics.
A molecular 'salve' to soothe surface stresses
NIST researchers have discovered that a single layer of molecular 'salve' can significantly reduce surface stress, which is crucial for applications like chemical and biological sensors. The 'salve' reduces stress by allowing atoms to adopt the molecules into their family, resulting in a more stable and tension-free surface.
Spin control: New technique sorts nanotubes by length
Researchers at NIST developed a new method to sort carbon nanotubes by length using high-speed centrifuges. This technique shows promise for scaling up production of high-quality nanotubes with specific lengths, crucial for various applications in electronics, medicine, and displays.
NRL scientists produce carbon nanotubes using commercially available polymeric resins
Researchers at the Naval Research Laboratory have successfully produced carbon nanotubes in high yields using commercially available aromatic containing resins. The method enables the production of MWNTs in moldable solid forms, films, and fibers with varying amounts of nanotubes and amorphous carbon.
Tropical soils impede landmine detection
Researchers found that over one-third of tropical soil samples can generate severe limitations for landmine detection using metal detectors. The study provides a classification scheme for predicting detector performance and highlights the importance of considering soil development in de-mining missions.
Dartmouth researchers alarmed by levels of mercury and arsenic in Chinese freshwater ecosystem
Researchers found potentially dangerous levels of mercury and arsenic in Lake Baiyangdian, a source of drinking water for thousands. The study highlights the need to apply US environmental research to China's rapidly industrializing environment.
Smart dust, gassy antennas, and warp speed calculations
Miniature smart dust probes are being developed to collect data on fluid systems. Researchers have also created stealthy gas-filled antennas that can be reconfigured for improved signal reception, while a new analysis improves calculations for high-energy physics experiments by factors of a million
Doping technique brings nanomechanical devices into the semiconductor world
University of Wisconsin-Madison engineers successfully blended modern semiconductor tech and nanomachines, opening doors to new tiny mechanical devices. The new work enables sensors capable of measuring single biological molecules and has implications for solar energy cells, battery technology, and highly sensitive light-emitting diodes.
Lower risk of heart attack from siromilus stents than paclitaxel or bare metal stents
A meta-analysis of 38 trials and data from 18023 patients found that siromilus-eluting stents have a reduced risk of heart attack, with a 19% lower risk compared to bare-metal stents and a 17% lower risk compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents.
SCAI leaders available for comment on studies released at European Society for Cardiology Congress
The SCAI has announced that its leaders are available for comment on numerous studies, trials, and data releases at the upcoming European Society for Cardiology Congress. These studies focus on interventional cardiology, percutaneous intervention, angioplasty, and stents.
UA physicists discover 'super crystals' in a semiconductor
University of Arizona physicists have discovered 'super crystals' in certain organic semiconducting solids, which could create splashes of current and exhibit unique electrical properties. This discovery was made possible by analyzing experimental data from a previous study on a mysterious solid-state phase in a semiconductor.
Porphyrin electron-transfer reactions observed at the molecular level
Porphyrin molecules change color when oxidized or reduced, allowing researchers to track individual molecules and understand redox reactions. This breakthrough could lead to advances in molecular electronics, catalysis, information storage, and solar energy conversion.
New phenomenon in physics discovered on illumination of metal surfaces
Researchers have discovered a new physical phenomenon called acoustic plasmon, which can be triggered into an excited state with very low energy input. This discovery could have significant implications for the design of ultra-high velocity electronic devices and materials for medical applications.
Long-term anti-clotting therapy sweetens stenting outcomes in diabetic patients
A study found that diabetic patients who continued long-term clopidogrel therapy had lower rates of heart attack and death compared to those who discontinued the medication, regardless of stent type. Long-term clopidogrel therapy was particularly beneficial in reducing mortality risk with bare metal stents.
Panel offers expert analysis on causes, prevention of stent thrombosis
A panel of experts shares their perspective on the causes of stent thrombosis, including early discontinuation of anticoagulation medication and stent fracture. The latest research on its prevention will also be discussed, highlighting the need for better strategies to solve this problem.
UCR chemists identify organic molecules that mimic metals
Researchers at UCR have discovered cyclic alkyl amino carbenes (CAACs), which can mimic the behavior of metals in splitting hydrogen under mild conditions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of carbon-based systems for storing hydrogen and producing useful amino compounds.
Diffraction and scattering -- the solution to what's in solution
X-ray scattering techniques have been successfully applied to determine how dissolved metal ions interact in solution, revealing their structures and long-range interactions. This research helps understand how metal ions behave in the environment and has implications for predicting reactions to metal contaminants.
Mayo Clinic study shows drug-eluting stent use in heart patients determined more by insurance type
A new Mayo Clinic study found that heart patients' likelihood of receiving a drug-eluting stent varies greatly by insurance type, hospital location, and procedural volume. Patients with private insurance are more likely to receive a drug-eluting stent than those with Medicare or Medicaid, while hospitals serving large numbers of Medica...
University of Delaware engineers receive grant for energy research
Researchers at the University of Delaware will identify nano-sized catalysts to convert liquid fuels into hydrogen. The goal is to supply affordable hydrogen with reduced emissions for powering cars and heating homes.
Electromagnetic miniatures
Scientists at Harvard University have developed a method for creating microfluidic channels with parallel metal wires, allowing for the control of magnetic components. The method uses polydimethylsiloxane resin and molten solder to produce stable metal cables, which can generate strong magnetic fields within the channel.
New Queen's study offers environmentally friendly solution to oil industry needs
Researchers at Queen's University have devised a novel approach to creating emulsions, which can be used for various industrial applications such as cleaning up oil spills and extracting oil deposits from tar sands. The new 'green chemistry' solution uses a reversible surfactant that can be activated by carbon dioxide or air, allowing ...
Researchers build sharpest tip
Scientists at the University of Alberta developed a unique coating process to make the sharpest tip known, opening doors to new possibilities in electron microscopy and nanotechnology. The sharp tips can withstand extreme temperatures and enable finer resolution in electron microscopes.
Live wires
Researchers have found that various bacterial species can form electrically conductive wires under different environmental conditions, leading to a new understanding of microbial energy distribution. The discovery, made by microbiologist Yuri Gorby, suggests that the planet may be 'hard-wired' with electricity-producing bacteria.
Scientists resolve 60-year-old plutonium questions
Researchers have determined that gallium evens out the uneven bonds between plutonium atoms, leading to a stable high-symmetry cubic structure. The findings shed light on the nature of plutonium and improve confidence in its safety and reliability.
SCAI Founders' Lecture traces impressive progress in interventional cardiology
The lecture highlights the evolution of interventional cardiology, from longer procedure times and higher risks of heart attacks to advancements in steerable guidewires, perfusion catheters, and drug-eluting stents. Bioabsorbable stents offer a promising solution by dissolving into carbon dioxide and water once healed.
Rice T-ray lab makes unexpected plasmonic discovery
Researchers at Rice University have made an unexpected plasmonic discovery, finding that terahertz waves slow down as they pass through smaller metal wires. This phenomenon has significant implications for the development of new chemical sensors and endoscopes.
Deadly astronomical event not likely to happen in our galaxy, study finds
Researchers at Ohio State University found that gamma ray bursts are rare and unlikely to occur near our solar system due to the Milky Way's metal content. The study suggests that GRBs pose no danger to life in our galaxy, dismissing theories of mass extinctions caused by these events.
Solitons seen in a solid
Researchers at the University of California - Davis have detected lattice solitons in heated uranium crystals using X-ray and neutron scattering experiments. The isolated vibrations play an important role in uranium metal, shedding new light on a previously unknown property of solid materials.
Modeling the chemical reactions of nanoparticles
Brookhaven scientists have developed a method to create well-defined nanoparticles of metal compounds for catalytic interest. This new approach, reactive layer assisted deposition (RLAD), enables researchers to understand the atomic structures of these particles and their reactivity on the nano scale.
Drug-eluting stents outperform radiation treatment for coronary restenosis in bare metal stents
The TAXUS Express trial showed that paclitaxel-eluting stents reduced restenosis by 40% and cardiac events by 11.5%, compared to vascular brachytherapy. The benefits were achieved without compromising safety, making drug-eluting stents the new standard of care for most patients with restenosis.
Disturbing former farmlands can rouse old pesticides, says Dartmouth research
A Dartmouth research study confirmed earlier findings that toxic metals like arsenic and lead remain in the top 10 inches of soil after pesticide use. The new study reveals these metals are now part of the fine silt and organic matter, increasing erosion risk to nearby waters.
From mirror to mist: Cracking the secret of fracture instabilities
Scientists from Max Planck Institute and MIT perform atom-by-atom investigations, gaining insight into dynamic fracture instabilities. They propose a new model that explains how material properties affect crack propagation, with implications for understanding fracture in various materials and scales.
A first: Hydrogen atoms manipulated below the surface of a palladium crystal
Researchers have manipulated hydrogen atoms below the surface of a palladium crystal, creating a structure predicted to be important in fuel cells, metal catalysis, and hydrogen storage. This breakthrough allows scientists to test theoretical predictions and apply data from direct observation.
Quantum chaos
Scientists have found experimental evidence of quantum chaos in a system with freely dispersing components. The researchers replicated an historical experiment, demonstrating photoelectric effect and observing Ericson fluctuations.
Drug-eluting stents successfully treat vein-graft disease
A study found that drug-eluting stents significantly reduce the risk of restenosis in vein grafts, cutting heart attack rates by fourfold compared to bare metal stents. The treatment also decreases repeat procedures and death rates, suggesting a long-term advantage for patients with worn and diseased vein grafts.
Scientists study and learn to prevent nanoparticle 'merging'
Researchers studied gold nanoparticles supported by carbon atoms and found that a large carbon shell can physically squeeze together particles, triggering a merging process. This discovery suggests encapsulating individual metal nanoparticles within carbon shells could prevent uncontrolled size changes in nanoparticle arrays.
Ministers work toward viable mining communities
Federal, provincial and territorial mines ministers agree that vulnerable mining communities are a priority. The conference discussed ways to maintain community viability through cooperation on exploration initiatives, processing technologies, and Aboriginal engagement.
Diamonds are a doctor's best friend
Researchers have developed diamond-like carbon coatings for medical implants, reducing friction and corrosion while providing biocompatibility. The new method of coating plastics, metals, and collagen enables the production of harder-wearing implants and enhances patient outcomes.
Medication-releasing stent reduces risk of artery re-narrowing following angioplasty
The TAXUS V trial found paclitaxel-eluting stents significantly reduced angiographic restenosis and target vessel revascularization rates. The study's results support the use of these stents for patients with more complex coronary lesions, reducing the risk of artery re-narrowing after angioplasty.
UCR chemists prepare molecules that accelerate chemical reactions for manufacturing drugs
Researchers have designed new cyclic alkyl amino carbenes (CAACs) that enhance stability and efficiency of metal catalysts. These carbene-based catalysts facilitate faster chemical transformations at lower temperatures, reducing costs in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Chip-scale refrigerators cool bulk objects
Researchers at NIST have developed chip-scale refrigerators capable of reaching temperatures as low as 100 milliKelvin, enabling cooling of bulk objects. The solid-state refrigerators have applications in semiconductor defect analysis and astronomical research.
Nanotechnology could promote hydrogen economy
Researchers at Rutgers University develop nanostructured iridium surfaces to extract hydrogen from ammonia, enabling efficient fuel cell operation. The process could contribute to the solution of hydrogen economy's storage and transport obstacles.
Researchers control chemical reactions one molecule at a time
UCR researchers Ludwig Bartels and team advance nanoscale electronics development by controlling chemical reactions one molecule at a time. They use an STM to guide individual molecules through step-by-step reactions, enabling fine-tuning of reactivity and optimizing atomic-scale construction of complex molecules.
Chemical catalysts may neutralize groundwater contaminants
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new set of molecules that can catalyze the cleanup of common groundwater pollutants called organohalides. The compounds 'break bonds' holding dangerous pollutants together, rendering them safer.
'Safe' levels of lead, cadmium may raise risk of peripheral artery disease
Research found that adults with high blood concentrations of lead or cadmium were almost three times more likely to develop peripheral artery disease, a condition similar to coronary artery disease. The study suggests that low-level exposure to these metals may be problematic in terms of cardiovascular disease risk.
'Safe' levels of lead, cadmium
A study of 2,125 adults found that those with the highest blood concentrations of lead or cadmium were almost three times more likely to develop PAD. The highest levels of the two metals were well within what is currently considered safe levels.
Yale scientists visualize molecular detail of RNA splicing complex
Scientists at Yale University used X-ray crystallography to image the self-splicing group-I intron and its associations with metal ions. This discovery reveals an evolutionarily ancient mechanism for RNA splicing, previously thought only possible in proteins.
Nanoscale contact optimizes adhesion
Researchers discovered an optimal shape of nanoscale contact surface that enhances adhesion strength, which becomes insensitive to small variations at a critical size scale of around 100 nanometers. This finding suggests combining size reduction and shape optimization for robust and reliable adhesion.
Carnegie Mellon University chemist Catalina Achim receives prestigious NSF CAREER award
Catalina Achim, a Carnegie Mellon University chemist, has received the prestigious NSF CAREER award to support her research on incorporating metal ions into peptide nucleic acid (PNA). The grant will also enable her to develop an interdisciplinary course bridging inorganic chemistry and art.
Field tests advance seismic landmine-detection system
The new system uses high-frequency seismic waves to detect buried mines, distinguishing them from soil and ground clutter. Researchers have demonstrated its advantage in laboratory and limited field tests, with promising results at government testing facilities.
New cryogenic refrigerator dips chips into a deep freeze
A new cryogenic refrigerator, developed by NIST, uses a solid-state design to cool X-ray detectors to subKelvin temperatures. The device reduces the need for bulky and expensive current equipment, making it ideal for semiconductor manufacturing and astronomical applications.
Scientists decipher genome of bacterium that remediates uranium contamination, generates electricity
Researchers have deciphered the genome of Geobacter sulfurreducens, a microbe that can remove dissolved uranium from groundwater and generate electricity. The study reveals new capabilities, including enhanced electron transport and metal reduction genes.
Brittle fracture mechanism breaks the sound barrier
Scientists discover conditions for cracks to propagate supersonically in brittle solids, challenging classical theories on fracture speed. Hyperelasticity governs dynamic fracture under extreme deformation, with a characteristic length scale near the crack tip.
Mimicking the human body with carbon black polymers
Researchers at NIST created improved phantom materials that can mimic blood, bone, fat, and skin using carbon black powder. These polymers have low-frequency electrical properties and can be formed in various shapes and sizes.
Metallic phase for bosons implies new state of matter
Researchers have found a new state of matter where bosons condense into a glass-like, metallic state. This discovery contradicts the conventional theory of metals and poses a serious theoretical question about the nature of this intermediate phase.
'Twinning' phenomenon found in nanocrystalline aluminum
Johns Hopkins researchers found deformation twinning in nanocrystalline aluminum, explaining how it deforms under high loads. This discovery will help build models to predict the performance of these materials in real-world devices.