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Through the combining glass

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a system that combines semi-transparent mirrors with display technologies, enabling unique interactive experiences. By using reflections and projections, visitors can engage with exhibits in new ways, such as trying on clothes or exploring dark objects, in museums and shop windows.

Nanoparticles break the symmetry of light

Physicists at Vienna University of Technology have developed an optical switch using spin-orbit coupling of light. By employing gold nanoparticles coupled to ultra-thin glass fibers, they can emit light into the fiber in a way that does not travel in both directions, but instead is directed either left or right.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateOct 6, 2014

Nanoribbon film keeps glass ice-free

Rice University scientists have developed a transparent coating for glass that can keep surfaces free of ice and fog while maintaining radio frequency transparency. The graphene nanoribbon film, refined for consistency, retains its heat-conductive properties when applied to glass or plastic surfaces.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 16, 2014

Use a rule of thumb to control how much you drink

Researchers at Iowa State University found that using a rule of thumb to control pouring reduces overconsumption. Men who poured wine with a general guideline poured significantly less than those without one, regardless of their body mass index. This study suggests using a drinking rule can help prevent overdrinking.

SourceIowa State University·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateAug 22, 2014

Penn researchers: Consider the 'anticrystal'

Researchers at Penn University have proposed a new concept called the anticrystal, which is a theoretical solid with complete disorder. The study suggests that understanding the mechanical properties of materials can be improved by starting with the framework of the anticrystal and adding order.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 7, 2014

Making smartphones smarter with see-through sensors

Researchers have developed laser-written light-guiding systems for efficient commercial use. The technology allows embedding sensors, including temperature and biometric sensors, into Gorilla Glass to create new real estate in phones. This could enable secure transactions using infrared light and more compact devices.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 18, 2014

'Smart glass' micro-iris for smartphone cameras

Researchers developed a smart glass micro-iris that controls light entry with minimal power consumption, overcoming traditional mechanical blade limitations in camera-integrated devices. The device demonstrates improved depth of focus and optical contrast, paving the way for next-generation smartphone cameras.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Optics·DateJun 18, 2014

Shattering past of the 'island of glass'

A University of Leicester team has discovered that the entire island was covered in a searing-hot layer of green glass 45 thousand years ago. The volcanic activity on the island provides insights into hazardous eruptions elsewhere, and may help understand undersea currents triggered by earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalGeology·DateMay 21, 2014

Impact glass stores biodata for millions of years

Asteroid and comet impacts can preserve the signatures of ancient life in Earthly impact debris. Researchers found fragments of leaves and preserved organic compounds in ancient impact glasses from Argentina, which could provide a snapshot of environmental conditions at the time of those impacts.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateApr 18, 2014

Potential use of Google Glass in surgical settings

A recent study investigates Google Glass's potential use in pediatric surgical settings, finding it useful for hands-free photo/video documentation, making calls, and looking up medical terms. However, concerns over patient privacy remain due to the device's internet connectivity.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Surgery·DateApr 16, 2014

Thermoelectric generator on glass fabric for wearable electronic devices

KAIST researchers developed a flexible thermoelectric (TE) generator on glass fabric that produces electricity from human body heat, overcoming the limitations of existing TE generators. The new generator is extremely light, flexible, and compact, with a self-sustaining structure that eliminates thermal energy loss.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateApr 10, 2014

Never say never in the nano-world

An international team of researchers found that a nanoparticle trapped with laser light temporarily violates the second law of thermodynamics, allowing it to release heat to hotter surroundings. This rare event occurs due to the non-equilibrium state created by cooling the nanoparticle below the surrounding gas temperature.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 31, 2014

Diagnosing diseases with smartphones

University of Houston researchers create a system to diagnose diseases in real time using smartphones and $20 lens attachments. The device uses gold nanoholes to detect chemical interactions between disease-causing agents and antibodies, providing quick and affordable readouts.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Photonics·DateMar 10, 2014

Real glass that bends but doesn't break

Researchers at McGill University have developed a technique to increase the toughness of glass by creating patterns of micro-cracks, mimicking the structure of nacre. This process increases glass's resistance to shattering and can be easily scaled up for larger glass sheets.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2014

Men support cracking glass ceiling

A new study finds that men tend to support gender equality in the workplace and report higher job satisfaction when they believe a woman can become CEO. The research, which surveyed over 6,500 workers from six formerly socialist countries, suggests that promoting women's advancement leads to increased productivity and revenue for firms.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalKyklos·DateNov 12, 2013

A single-atom light switch

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology develop a single-atom light switch that can redirect light between two fibre optic cables. The system utilizes a Rubidium atom to act as a switch, allowing for the manipulation of light and enabling quantum phenomena for information and communication technology.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 5, 2013

Alcohol-related violence: Is 'glassing' the big issue?

A study found that 'glassing' incidents account for only 9% of alcohol-related assault injuries, mostly occurring in homes. The paper highlights the need to address social norms and emerging drinker issues through grassroots strategies and regulatory reforms.

SourceWiley·JournalEmergency Medicine Australasia·DateOct 15, 2013

Over the limit

Researchers found that participants poured 12% more wine into wide glasses than standard ones, and 9% more when holding the glass while pouring. This highlights the importance of educating people on how to measure a proper serving size of alcohol.

SourceIowa State University·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateSep 27, 2013