Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New detector could enable high-speed quantum communication

Researchers have developed a new detector that can precisely measure single photons at very high rates, enabling practical high-speed quantum communication. The PEACOQ detector is made of superconducting nanowires and operates at extremely cold temperatures, allowing for precise measurement of photon arrival times.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 26, 2023

Nanorattles shake up new possibilities for disease detection

Researchers at Duke University developed nanorattles that amplify signals from separate biomarkers, allowing for accurate detection of head and neck cancers without biopsies. The technology uses machine learning algorithms to tease apart multiple biomarker signals, making it possible to target multiple diseases simultaneously.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Raman Spectroscopy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2022

People only pay attention to new information when they want to

A new study found that people tend to listen to and believe information that supports their existing biases, rather than seeking out contradictory evidence. This phenomenon, known as motivated reasoning, can lead to the amplification of biases and the spread of misinformation in online communities and financial markets.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021

Reaping the benefits of noise

Researchers at AMOLF discovered that introducing slow non-linearity can increase the efficiency of mechanical oscillators harvesting energy from noise. This phenomenon, known as stochastic resonance, becomes robust to variations in signal frequency when systems have memory.

SourceAMOLF·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2021

Recording thousands of nerve cell impulses at high resolution

Researchers developed a new generation of microelectrode-array chips that can record electrical activity from up to 20,000 nerve cells simultaneously. The new chip enables comprehensive measurements of more than 1,000 cells at once, suitable for testing the effects of drugs and reducing animal experiments.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2020

Physicists have found a way to 'hear' dark matter

Researchers propose a novel method to search for dark matter by harnessing the power of plasmas and magnetic fields. This approach, known as axion plasma haloscopes, enables the detection of dark matter in previously unexplored areas. By tuning into specific frequencies, scientists may uncover evidence of this elusive substance.

SourceStockholm University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 9, 2019

Zebra stripes are not good landing strips

A new study published in PLOS One found that zebra stripes deter horse flies from landing on them by reducing the likelihood of a successful bite. The striped coat prevented flies from slowing down and failing to land, leading to fewer bites.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 20, 2019

Learning transistor mimics the brain

Scientists at Linköping University have developed an organic electrochemical transistor that can learn and create new connections, similar to the human brain. The transistor uses a unique material called ETE-S, which allows it to adapt to changing input signals, enabling the creation of new connections.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 5, 2019

Algorithm accurately predicts how electromagnetic waves and magnetic materials interact

UCLA engineers have developed a new computational tool that accurately models how magnetic materials interact with incoming radio signals at the nanoscale. This allows for the design of next-generation communications devices with improved data transport capabilities and reduced noise interference.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalIEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques·DateSep 10, 2018

Electro-mechano-optical NMR detection

Researchers at Kyoto University and University of Tokyo have developed a new method for light detection in nuclear magnetic resonance, promising higher sensitivity for MRI. The 'up-convertion' technology converts radio-frequency signals into optical ones using an elastic membrane and optics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptica·DateFeb 1, 2018

Lighting up disease-carrying mosquitoes

Researchers have developed a technique called QUASR that can detect RNA from West Nile and chikungunya virus in mosquito samples in under half an hour, speeding up disease diagnosis. The method amplifies the positive signal up to 10 times brighter than a negative one, allowing for simultaneous screening of multiple targets.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2016

Almost as sensitive as a dog's nose

Scientists developed a new SERS sensor with high sensitivity and reproducibility, detecting a specific organic species in low concentrations. The sensor uses vertically arranged carbon nanotubes to amplify Raman-scattered light signals.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 29, 2013