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Electrochemistry controlled with a plasma electrode

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University create an electrochemical cell with a stable plasma electrode, allowing for controlled electron transfer and reducing losses. The technology has the potential to improve battery and fuel cell efficiency and enable new applications such as hydrogen production and nanomaterial synthesis.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 19, 2011

Solar cells get a boost from bouncing light

A new solar cell design boosts electricity generation by 26% through bouncing light, increasing the potential of dye-sensitized solar cells. The layered structure, consisting of micrometer-scale spheres and nanoscale particles, enhances light absorption and conversion efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJul 29, 2011

Important step in the next generation of computing

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new, more efficient way of generating spin current using collective motion of spins called spin waves. This breakthrough addresses a major obstacle in spintronics, a technology that could radically change computing with high-speed, high-density and low-power consumption.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 3, 2011

NIST 'catch and release' program could improve nanoparticle safety assessment

Scientists at NIST have developed a method to capture metal-based nanoparticles on a surface and release them at the desired moment, allowing for effective assessment of their toxicity in cell cultures. This approach enables precise delivery of particles to cells, mimicking real-world encounters, and reducing clumping issues.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateJun 8, 2011

Scientists looking to burst the superconductivity bubble

New research reveals that bubbles in the fabrication process of high-temperature superconductor Bi2212 limit its critical current density, blocking connectivity and reducing electrical resistance. Densification of filaments before melting could help eliminate bubble formation and improve material performance.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateMay 15, 2011

New spin on graphene

Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered a new way to interconnect electron spin and charge in graphene, enabling direct manipulation of electric current using microelectronics. This breakthrough has significant implications for spintronics, with potential applications in sensors, memories, and transistors.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2011

Bitterness induces nausea, swallowing not required

A recent study published in Current Biology reveals that the taste of something extremely bitter can cause nausea and stomach churning, regardless of whether it's swallowed. The researchers found that the body anticipates toxins or anti-nutrients and prepares for them by responding with nausea and stomach contractions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 11, 2011

Ultra high speed film

Researchers from Kiel University have developed a new technique to record films of extremely fast processes, capturing phase transitions and catalytic reactions in solids. The technique uses ultra short flashes of light to make snapshots of electronic states, enabling new insights into relevant properties of solids.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2011

Compact high-temperature superconducting cables demonstrated at NIST

Researchers at NIST have developed compact high-temperature superconducting cables with improved strain tolerance, enabling thinner and more flexible cables for electric power grid applications. The new cables may also be used in scientific and medical equipment, as well as for military applications such as HTS power transmission.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateFeb 17, 2011

Wave power could contain fusion plasma

Researchers at the University of Warwick have confirmed a longstanding prediction that high-energy alpha particles will be key to generating fusion power in next-generation tokamaks. They found that LH waves, often used externally, can occur naturally in fusion plasmas and help exploit alpha particle energy.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 9, 2011

Study assesses nuclear power assumptions

A study reviews nuclear power economics and concludes that the current fuel cycle is unsustainable due to uncertainty about waste management. Reprocessing and recycling of spent fuel is an alternative, but its implementation is controversial due to proliferation risks and high costs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 30, 2010

A new read on DNA sequencing

Biophysicist Stuart Lindsay's new technique uses recognition molecules to grasp each base in turn, generating a distinct electronic signal that identifies each base. This allows for the reading of individual bases without interference from neighboring bases, including recognition of epigenetic modifications.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 14, 2010