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New hardware project would boost 5G networks

A University of Houston engineer is developing a system capable of supporting 5G infrastructure, enabling faster speeds and greater bandwidth. The $1.7 million grant-funded project aims to improve radio frequency communication capacity and advance power electronics to support the demands of 5G networks.

Exciting tweaks for organic solar cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have improved the efficiency of organic solar cells by targeting the molecular backbone of the power-generating layer. The new design approach increased the excited state duration of the electron-accepting component, converting over 70% of light particles into current. Further modifications to the molecu...

SourceKyoto University·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 5, 2020

Black phosphorous tunnel field-effect transistor as an alternative ultra-low power switch?

Researchers developed a black phosphorus transistor with 10-times lower switching power consumption and 10,000-times lower standby power consumption than conventional CMOS transistors. The transistor achieves record-low subthreshold swing values and high on-state current, paving the way to extend Moore's Law.

Time-resolved measurement in a memory device

The study achieved time-resolved measurement of a single magnetic memory event using a tunnel junction, revealing two stages: incubation and actual reversal. The researchers developed a strategy to minimize time fluctuations, reducing the total time for the reversal event to less than 0.3 nanoseconds.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 19, 2020

Magnetographic imaging of muscle activity

Noninvasive magnetographic imaging of muscle activity allows spatial and temporal mapping of physiological electric currents, enabling studies of the cardiac cycle and lower back pain. This breakthrough method offers diverse applications in medical research and could provide new insights into muscle function and pain mechanisms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020

Laser diode emits deep UV light

Researchers at Nagoya University have successfully designed a laser diode that emits deep-ultraviolet light at a record-breaking wavelength of 271.8 nanometers. This achievement overcomes previous limitations and enables new applications in healthcare, such as disinfection and treating skin conditions like psoriasis.

SourceNagoya University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJan 18, 2020

Clusters of gold atoms form peculiar pyramidal shape

Researchers have discovered that freestanding gold clusters of twenty atoms take on a pyramidal shape with a triangular ground plane and additional triangles. The study reveals the cluster's unusual electronic structure, which is similar to noble gas atoms or aromatic molecules, making them less reactive.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2020

Punching holes in opaque solar cells turns them transparent

Researchers in Korea have developed a strategy to transform opaque solar cells into transparent ones, allowing for more efficient energy harvesting. The transparent solar cells have a high-power conversion efficiency of 12.2 percent and long-term stability, making them ideal for turning windows into solar panels.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateDec 11, 2019

A trick for taming terahertz transmissions

Researchers at Osaka University developed a novel receiver that overcomes obstacles in terahertz radiation, enabling record-breaking transmission speeds of 30 gigabits per second. The new technology has the potential to revolutionize next-generation 6G cellular network technology and various other applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 2, 2019

A record-setting transistor

Researchers created a high-electron mobility transistor with record-low gate leakage current, high on/off current ratio, and high current gain cutoff frequency. The device has the potential to expand bandwidth for wireless communication systems, enabling more information transmission in less battery life.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateNov 26, 2019

Bringing attention to visual neglect in stroke

A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and Northeastern University received a $1.2M NSF award to develop a BCI system for detecting, assessing, and rehabilitating unilateral spatial neglect in stroke survivors. The system will use EEG monitoring and augmented reality to provide personalized intervention strategies.

A 'shocking' new way to treat infections

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a novel electrochemical therapy to treat metal-based implant infections, which are a persistent problem with five to 10 percent failure rates. The new approach damages the microbe cell membrane, increasing susceptibility to antibiotics and eradicating drug-resistant cells.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 22, 2019

The nano-guitar string that plays itself

Researchers at Lancaster University created a nano-electronic circuit that vibrates on its own when given an electrical current, generating motion directly from the energy. The carbon nanotube wire used in the device oscillated at frequencies too high for human hearing, producing sound waves equivalent to an A string pitched 21 octaves...

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 14, 2019

Exploring the future of coal power in water scarce Asia

A new study explores how climate change impacts coal-fired power plants' water constraints, threatening regional electricity generation plans. The research highlights three possible strategies to mitigate water limitations, including reducing existing/planned power plants, integrating electricity markets, and adopting dry cooling in no...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateSep 23, 2019

Spin devices get a paint job

Physicists have developed a novel method to create high-performance spintronic devices using organic molecules, which can be easily configured for different functions. The new fabrication method uses layers of molecules that can be painted or printed onto metals, offering a promising alternative to traditional materials.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Fat pumps generate electrical power

A study from Aarhus University has found that fat pumps in cell membranes create an electrical current, which may play a role in controlling essential processes in the body. This discovery highlights the importance of flippases in maintaining cellular function and suggests potential connections to neurological diseases and Alzheimer's.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2019

'Tickle' therapy could help slow aging

A new study at the University of Leeds suggests that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) may help slow down an important effect associated with ageing. The therapy, which delivers a small electrical current to the ear, has been shown to improve physiological and wellbeing outcomes in over-55s.