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A cellular housekeeper, and potential target of obesity drugs, caught in action

Scientists have obtained the closest look yet at how a gargantuan molecular machine breaks down unwanted proteins in cells, a critical housekeeping chore that helps prevent diseases such as cancer. The research provides valuable clues on how the enzyme, tripeptidyl peptidase II, keeps cells tidy and disease-free.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 2, 2010

Nanotechnology could help Arab region

Advances in nanotechnology can help the Arab region overcome development challenges by enhancing desalination efficiency, improving solar panel capacity, and boosting agricultural output. However, strong commitment to training scientists is crucial for addressing human resource issues.

SourceTWAS·DateFeb 20, 2010

New magnetic tuning method enhances data storage

A new magnetic tuning method has been developed to improve the storage capacity of next-generation computer hard drives. The method, reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, enables writing, storage, and readout at a fixed temperature by tuning the softness of the magnet with an external magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2010

Southwest Nano Consortium established

The Southwest Nano Consortium brings together six states and northern Mexico to pool resources, encourage collaboration, and host internationally recognized events. The consortium aims to expedite the commercialization of nanotechnology technologies with significant impact on renewable energy, biotech, IT, and other sectors.

UnMASCing diseases of the brain

Researchers at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute have identified a set of brain proteins responsible for various neurological disorders. These proteins are found to be defective in molecular machines that control communication between nerve cells and learning processes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateMay 19, 2009

It's raining pentagons

Researchers at the London Centre for Nanotechnology have discovered a novel one-dimensional ice chain structure built entirely from pentagons, challenging the long-held assumption that hexagons are the building blocks of ice. This discovery has significant implications for understanding hydrogen bonding at interfaces and may lead to ne...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 8, 2009

People in the US and the UK show strong similarities in their attitudes toward nanotechnologies

A new US-UK study reveals that people in both countries hold positive views of nanotechnologies, with a focus on energy applications. The research found that participants were more optimistic about the future contribution of new technologies to society and exhibited a high degree of comfort with energy applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 9, 2008

Nanotechnology 'culture war' possible, says Yale study

A Yale study reveals that the public's perception of nanotechnology is highly polarized based on cultural values, with some groups viewing it as safe and others as risky. The study suggests that public education strategies should consider citizens' predispositions to effectively communicate about nanotechnology.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 7, 2008

For nano, religion in US dictates a wary view

A new study reveals that nanotechnology is perceived as less morally acceptable in the United States and certain European countries with stronger religious traditions. The survey found that levels of religiosity are a strong predictor of views on nanotechnology, highlighting a paradox in a country known for its technological advancements.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 7, 2008

Putting a new spin on current research

Physicists at UCL and the London Centre for Nanotechnology have made a significant discovery in quantum computing, extending the quantum lifetime of electrons by over 5,000%. This achievement brings researchers closer to building a usable quantum computer. The study used a powerful magnetic field to align electron spins, providing a cr...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 2008

Nanotechnology boosts war on superbugs

Researchers have developed ultra-sensitive probes to investigate vancomycin's working mechanisms, paving the way for more effective new drugs. By detecting surface stress on bacteria, scientists can identify the disruption of cell walls and potentially develop more powerful antibiotics.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 12, 2008

Creating unconventional metals

Researchers at University College London have combined silicon, iron, and manganese to create a new material with unique properties. The discovery demonstrates a simple recipe for reaching this 'quantum halfway house' and suggests new mechanisms for controlling electrical currents and magnetism in semiconductor devices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008

Nanotechnology: Learning from past mistakes

The study applies the 12 'late lessons from early warnings' to nanotechnology, concluding that industry and government are repeating past mistakes. The authors call for improved risk research strategies, stakeholder engagement, and a more holistic approach to ensure the safe development of emerging nanotechnologies.

Electronic structure of DNA revealed for 1st time by Hebrew University and collaborating researchers

Researchers have revealed the electronic structure of single DNA molecules, shedding light on their electronic properties and potential use in nanotechnology. The discovery has significant implications for understanding DNA damage and repair mechanisms, as well as the development of new DNA decoding technologies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 28, 2008

Cleaner water through nanotechnology

Researchers have developed a nanotech approach using coated silica particles that can efficiently remove biological molecules, pathogens, and organic pollutants from water. This innovative method could help prevent disease and poisoning for millions of people worldwide.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nanotechnology·DateFeb 20, 2008

Lab-on-chip testing for 'bird flu' developed by Singapore scientists

Researchers at IBN, IMCB, and GIS successfully developed a miniaturized device to detect the H5N1 virus in less than half an hour, showing promise for pre-emptive surveillance of avian flu epidemics. The device integrates multiple workflows into a single droplet-based system, offering potential advantages over existing tests.

Using a magnet to tune a magnet

A team of scientists has found a way to switch a material's magnetic properties from 'hard' to 'soft' and back again. This breakthrough could lead to new ways of controlling electromagnetic devices. The research, published in Nature, used a magnet to be 'tuned' by subjecting it to a second magnetic field.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2007

Hidden order found in a quantum spin liquid

Researchers have discovered a hidden magnetic order in a ceramic material that extends over chains of 100 atoms, with potential applications in quantum computing and information processing. The team found that the magnetic excitations can propagate long distances at low temperatures, but can be disrupted by defects or heat.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateJul 26, 2007