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Scientists create metal that pumps liquid uphill

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a metal slab that can lift liquids using capillary action, moving them at speeds faster than nature. The metal's surface structure can be controlled to direct liquid flow or even create hydrophobic surfaces that prevent germ growth.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2009

Enhancing solar cells with nanoparticles

Researchers have developed a new method to boost the efficiency of solar cells by using nanoparticles. By scattering light and improving color-specific capture, this approach could significantly improve sunlight conversion rates.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 23, 2008

Researchers show how to 'stamp' nanodevices with rubber molds

Cornell researchers develop a cost-effective method to create nanoscale devices by manipulating fluid droplets and using silicone rubber molds. The technique allows for the production of various architectures, including wires, disks, squares, triangles, and superlattices, with potential applications in computer memory and photonics.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 22, 2008

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 23, 2008

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.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateFeb 6, 2008

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.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 15, 2007

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.

SourceWiley·DateOct 6, 2006

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.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 11, 2006

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.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2006

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 7, 2006

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.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 4, 2005

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.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateOct 17, 2005

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.