Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New research could lead to restoring vision for sufferers of retinal disorders

Researchers have demonstrated that retinal cells carry out key processing tasks, paving the way for improved retinal implants and potentially restoring vision to those with macular degeneration. This breakthrough could significantly improve artificial retinas and enhance the sight of thousands affected by age-related macular degeneration.

Watching the luminescent gene switch

Researchers from Hokkaido University developed a new method to track the switching on and off of circadian genes in freely moving mice, enabling the monitoring of gene expression patterns in specific tissues. This technique has significant implications for understanding clock gene function and its effects on mouse behavior.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

Using plasmonics to transmit more data

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new scheme using plasmonics to control infrared plasmons, enabling fast transmission of massive data. By modulating light signals in the near-infrared wavelength region, they can potentially switch signals in optical fibers with high speeds.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 22, 2016

A qubit candidate shines brighter

A team of researchers at Harvard, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of Chicago has developed a technique to precisely place nitrogen vacancy centers within nano-sized diamond structures, enhancing their fluorescence. This achievement is crucial for using NV centers as qubits in future quantum computers.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 29, 2014

Quantum holograms as atomic scale memory keepsake

Researchers from St. Petersburg State University developed a theoretical model for quantum memory in light, adapting classical hologram concepts to a quantum system. They demonstrated the possibility of retrieving specific portions of stored quantized light signals with precise control over space and time.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateOct 21, 2014

That grocery store cabbage is alive

Researchers discovered that grocery store produce continues to perceive light and alter its biology in response to circadian rhythms. This affects nutrient levels and phytochemicals, which have anti-cancer properties.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2013

Rice unveils method for tailoring optical processors

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel approach to arrange metal nanoparticles in geometric patterns, enabling control of light with light. The breakthrough enables the creation of optical devices that can transform incoming light signals into output of a different color.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2013

A new phase in reading photons

A new JQI photodetector uses an adaptive network of detectors with feedback to read quantum information with minimal uncertainty. By combining multiple stages and using phase reference waves, the system can beat the standard quantum limit for quaternary encoding.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 6, 2013

Dartmouth researchers find two circadian clocks in the same plant tissue

Researchers found that Arabidopsis plants respond differently to light and temperature signals, with one gene focused on photosynthesis and the other sensitive to temperature. This discovery suggests that plants have multiple internal clocks operating within a single tissue, allowing them to make critical decisions about flowering.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2003