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Novel theory of entropy may solve materials design issues

Researchers at Penn State have developed Zentropy theory, a new approach to understanding entropy that can predict anomalies in physical properties like volume. The theory may lead to breakthroughs in designing superconducting materials and structural materials that withstand higher temperatures.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Phase Equilibria and Diffusion·DateMar 16, 2022

In quantum mechanics, not even time flows as you might expect it to

A team of physicists discovered that quantum systems can exhibit superposition of forward and backward time flows, leading to complex laws governing time flow. In certain cases with small entropy, observing the consequences of a system's evolution along both temporal directions becomes physically possible.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCommunications Physics·DateNov 29, 2021

Three-channel Kondo effect discovered in cubic holmium compound

Researchers have discovered a three-channel Kondo effect in a cubic holmium compound using numerical methods, predicting an exotic quantum ground state and potential applications. The study found a residual entropy value at ultra-low temperatures, matching the predicted value by the three-channel Kondo effect.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of the Physical Society of Japan·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2021
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Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Partition function zeros are ‘shortcut’ to thermodynamic calculations on quantum computers

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new method to calculate thermodynamic properties using partition function zeros on quantum computers. By calculating the zeros of the partition function, they can determine free energy, entropy, and other properties without necessitating huge numbers of quantum computations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

Building blocks: New evidence-based system predicts element combination forming high entropy alloy

Researchers developed a novel evidence-based material recommender system that predicts high entropy alloy formation without data descriptors, overcomes data bias and poor availability. The method recommends an FeMnCoNi alloy as the most probable HEA and successfully synthesizes it, confirming its validity.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Researchers propose a method of magnetizing a material without applying an external magnetic field

Scientists at São Paulo State University discovered that compressing paramagnetic salts adiabatically can produce magnetization. The process aligns the particles' spins, resulting in a constant total entropy and magnetized system. This method has potential applications in investigating other interacting systems.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2021
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New discoveries and insights into the glass transition

Research from Tohoku University and Johns Hopkins University sheds new light on the glass transition in metallic glasses, influenced by high configuration entropy. The study introduces a novel glass-forming system with unprecedented thermodynamic and dynamic characteristics.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 16, 2021

Quantum random number generator sets benchmark for size, performance

Researchers have developed the fastest real-time quantum random number generator to date, combining a photonic integrated chip with optimized postprocessing. The device generates truly random numbers at nearly 19 gigabits per second and measures only 15.6 by 18.0 millimeters.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 29, 2021

Algorithms improve how we protect our data

Researchers at DGIST developed new algorithms to estimate min-entropy, a key metric for cryptography, using less data and improving speed. The new approach can be used in memory-constrained devices like Internet-of-things devices.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateMay 3, 2021

Study reveals roadmap of muscle decline with age

A comprehensive study in mice reveals a roadmap of muscle decline with age, identifying key molecular mechanisms and potential new treatments. Klotho supplementation improved muscle strength in old but not oldest-old mice, suggesting earlier intervention may prevent declines.

SourceeLife·DateApr 20, 2021
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Entropy measurements reveal exotic effect in "magic-angle" graphene

Scientists at Weizmann Institute of Science and MIT measure electronic entropy in twisted bilayer graphene, revealing giant magnetic entropy. The discovery provides an electronic analogue to the Pomeranchuk effect, where a material can exhibit unusual phase transitions.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Identifying banknote fingerprints can stop counterfeits on streets

Researchers from the University of Warwick have developed a novel technique called Polymer Substrate Fingerprinting, which identifies every banknote's unique fingerprint. This method can uniquely identify each individual banknote with extremely high accuracy, even under rough handling.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateMar 23, 2021

Tracking melting points above 4000 degrees Celsius

A UC San Diego engineer is developing a research platform to study new materials that melt at temperatures higher than 4000 degrees Celsius. The team aims to increase the melting point of materials by mixing large numbers of different atoms together, reducing the driving force for the solid to melt.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 23, 2021
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New research explores the thermodynamics of off-equilibrium systems

Physicist David Wolpert developed a hybrid formalism to analyze far-from-equilibrium systems with explicitly distinguished subsystems. The formalism combines advances in nonequilibrium statistical physics and graphical models, allowing for the study of nanoscale systems like biological cells.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 11, 2020

Extracting order from a quantum measurement finally shown experimentally

Researchers developed a framework to analyze entropy in quantum systems, allowing for control over measurements and improving the quality of quantum computer readouts. The study demonstrates the importance of understanding the link between thermodynamics and quantum measurements.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 7, 2020

Scientists develop approach to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys for electrocatalytic application

Researchers developed a new method to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys composed of immiscible metals, which showed superior performances in electrocatalytic reactions. The approach uses vapor-source technology and allows for control over composition and size, enabling the creation of cost-effective, highly active, and durable elect...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateAug 17, 2020

Scientists discover new class of semiconducting entropy-stabilized materials

Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered a new class of semiconducting materials stabilized by entropy. These materials, such as GeSnPbSSeTe high-entropy chalcogenide alloys, exhibit ambipolar doping, ultralow thermal conductivity, and a wide range of functional properties.

SourceUniversity of Michigan College of Engineering·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJul 31, 2020
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New artificial neural network model bests MaxEnt in inverse problem example

A new artificial neural network model has been developed to solve inverse problems, demonstrating accuracy comparable to the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) approach. The model's versatility and robustness against noisy data have been showcased in various tests, including recovering electron single-particle spectral densities.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 17, 2020

Tracking thermodynamic fundamentals

Researchers at Kiel University successfully measured entropy in complex plasmas using video microscopy and laser technology. They found that the thermodynamic fundamentals are fulfilled, leading to new insights into strongly coupled systems.

SourceKiel University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2019
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Entropy explains RNA diffusion rates in cells

Researchers have discovered exponential patterns in RNA diffusion rates within cells, displaying the highest possible degree of disorder or entropy. This pattern is linked to small-scale diffusive behaviors and can be compared to thermodynamic behaviors in larger systems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateAug 7, 2019

Researchers enrich silver chemistry

The research team derived precise values of enthalpy and entropy of numerous silver compounds, enabling predictions of chemical processes in the gas phase. The findings will help manage thin film and pure sample deposition from the gas phase.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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Characterizing the 'arrow of time' in open quantum systems

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis compared forward and reverse trajectories of superconducting circuits called qubits, finding that they follow the second law of thermodynamics and exhibit increasing entropy.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 2019

No assumptions needed to simulate petroleum reservoirs

Researchers found that by making the right choices in modeling, temperature gradients can accurately predict pressure and composition changes without assumptions. The study developed an equation to express pressure gradient, which revealed special cases where residual entropy affects pressure gradients.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 5, 2019

Pressure makes best cooling

Researchers have discovered a class of disordered materials that can exhibit massive cooling effects when subjected to low pressure. The materials, called plastic crystals, display extremely high entropy changes, making them ideal for emerging solid-state refrigeration technologies.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2019

Experiments detect entropy production in mesoscopic quantum systems

Experiments with Bose-Einstein condensates and optomechanical cavities reveal an increase in irreversibility due to quantum fluctuations. This counterintuitive discovery challenges current understanding of entropy production.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 14, 2019

Quantum Maxwell's demon 'teleports' entropy out of a qubit

Researchers describe an extended quantum Maxwell's demon that violates the second law of thermodynamics in a system up to 5 meters away from the device. The demon channels entropy away from a target qubit, reducing its disorder without affecting its energy.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 20, 2018
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Disordered materials could be hardest, most heat-tolerant carbides

Researchers at Duke University and UC San Diego have discovered a new class of carbides that are harder and lighter than current materials, with high melting points. The five-metal carbides, which rely on disorder for stability, may find use in industries such as machinery, hardware, and aerospace.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2018

New data science method makes charts easier to read at a glance

Researchers at Columbia University developed a new method to quantify visual complexity in line charts, enabling easier decision-making in emergency settings. The 'Pixel Approximate Entropy' technique provides a score that automatically identifies difficult charts, facilitating the development of more intelligent data science systems.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateOct 18, 2018

Researchers discover how caged molecules 'rattle and sing'

A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota and University of Massachusetts Amherst has developed a method to predict molecular motion with high accuracy when confining molecules in small nanocages. This breakthrough discovery could improve the production of fuels and chemicals, as well as capture CO2 from the air.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 10, 2018

Could a demon help to create a quantum computer?

Researchers at Penn State successfully organized atoms in a lattice to lower entropy, which could aid in creating a quantum computer. This achievement uses uncharged atoms as qubits, enabling multiple states simultaneously and making computation more efficient.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateSep 5, 2018
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Brain imaging helps redefine intelligence

Researchers used functional MRI scans to measure brain entropy in 892 participants and found a strong link between higher entropy and intelligence, as measured by standard IQ tests. This suggests that brain imaging could one day help assess problems in brain function for conditions like depression and autism.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 13, 2018

How small does your rice pudding need to get when stirring jam into it?

A new study by Loris Ferrari examines the practical consequences of two entropy theories in small systems. The research finds that certain quantities can be measured experimentally to assess which theory is more accurate, resolving a long-standing debate between Ludwig Boltzmann and Willard Gibbs.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateDec 22, 2017

Illuminated: The mechanism behind shear thinning in supercooled liquids

Two researchers at The University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science have revealed new insights into the behavior of supercooled liquids when they are made to flow by shearing. They found that the two-body structural entropy is the key quantity to understanding shear thinning, which is an industrially very important process.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Model of galaxy and star cluster formation is rectified

A new study by Brazilian researchers resolves the 'fundamental paradox of stellar dynamics', describing galaxy clusters' violent relaxation as displaying unique behavior with entropy oscillation. Entropy increases at the end of the process, but fluctuates in the initial stage, contrary to conventional understanding.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 1, 2017
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Electronic entropy enhances water splitting

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that cerium's electronic entropy is the underlying reason for its success in water-splitting technologies. Cerium's large entropy makes it ideal for hydrogen production, opening up possibilities for future work in creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly energy system.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 24, 2017

The microscopic origin of thermodynamics

Researchers at SISSA shed light on the microscopic origin of thermodynamics by showing that isolated systems exhibit increasing entropy due to entanglement with the rest of the system. This resolves the paradox between quantum mechanics and thermodynamics, providing new insights into the behavior of extended quantum systems.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 25, 2017

Keeping the heat out

Metal-nitride nanowires show high sensitivity to light when arranged in nano-sized wires, but thermal effects significantly impact their performance at room temperature. Researchers have developed a detailed study to quantify the effect of photoinduced entropy on device performance.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 2, 2017

Entropy landscape sheds light on quantum mystery

Researchers precisely measured the entropy of a cerium copper gold alloy to shed light on high-temperature superconductivity and similar phenomena. The study provides new evidence about the possible causes of these phenomena near a quantum critical point, where electrons fluctuate between two different quantum states.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 15, 2017
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Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Measuring entropy

A team of scientists from Empa and PSU investigated the DBS molecule's rotation rates at different temperatures, finding a non-uniform energy landscape. The results suggest that entropy plays a crucial role in molecular mobility even at low temperatures.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2017
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Research pushes concept of entropy out of kilter

New research at Brown University finds that a non-equilibrium phenomenon relies on entropy to emerge, surprising scientists who thought disorder would decrease as systems move away from equilibrium. The study's results have implications for our understanding of entropy and may lead to new practical applications.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2017

Model could shatter a mystery of glass

Princeton University researchers have developed a new model that creates a 'perfect glass' that never crystallizes, even at absolute zero. The model considers 2-, 3-, and 4-body interactions to suppress crystallization, revealing unique properties of perfect glasses.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 28, 2016
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Molecular flexibility shown to help pharmaceutical drugs bind to their targets

Researchers have discovered that flexible molecules can bind more effectively to proteins causing diseases like breast cancer. This finding could lead to the development of more effective pharmaceutical drugs. By maintaining molecular flexibility, scientists may be able to create stronger bindings with disease-causing proteins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 25, 2016

Alternating periods of high- and low-entropy neural ensemble activity during image processing in the primary visual cortex of rats

The study reveals alternating periods of high- and low-wavelet entropy (WS) in rat V1 during image processing, indicating dynamic LFPs with synchronized and complexly ordered activity. The parameters RWE and WS quantify neural population activity characteristics that may help decipher visual processing and object recognition.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Biomedical Engineering Journal·DateJul 15, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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A look beyond the horizon of events

A team of physicists has developed a new method to calculate the thermodynamics of black holes, leveraging quantum gravity and holographic principles. The study proposes that a 'condensate' of space quanta can describe homogeneous classical geometries, allowing for a more realistic and robust calculation of black hole entropy.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 26, 2016

Atomic force microscope reveals molecular ghosts

A team of chemists and physicists used atomic force microscopy to capture snapshots of molecules reacting on a catalyst's surface, revealing intermediate structures lasting for up to 20 minutes. This breakthrough expands the toolbox for designing new catalytic reactions and has implications for fields like materials science and medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 9, 2016

The intermediates in a chemical reaction photographed 'red-handed'

A team of researchers has successfully imaged all steps in a complex organic reaction, revealing the mechanisms behind it. The study used atomic force microscopy to visualize the bond configuration of reactants, intermediates, and products, providing new insights into the stabilization of intermediates.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 3, 2016

The contrarian dance of DNA

Research by Georgia Institute of Technology's Harold Kim reveals DNA's movements defy intuition, with entropic forces prevailing over elastic ones. The study improves understanding of how DNA snaps free from proteins and may help predict the lifespans of DNA loops.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 20, 2016
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