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Antenna-on-a-chip rips the light fantastic

The Rice team's device can modulate a signal at more than 10 gigabits per second, making it suitable for real-time video processing and high-speed data throughput. This breakthrough has the potential to scale up the capability of optical information processing systems by several magnitudes.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 16, 2012

New infrared spectroscopy technique

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a new method for studying the interaction between pharmaceuticals and their target proteins. The new technique uses infrared difference spectroscopy, which allows for the analysis of dynamic processes in proteins that were previously inaccessible.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemPhysChem·DateSep 3, 2012

Romancing the firefly

Researchers at Tufts University found that female fireflies prefer males with larger nuptial gifts after mating, leading to higher reproductive success. This discovery challenges the conventional view that flash duration is the primary cue for female choice in firefly courtship.

Cosmic calculations

A University of Delaware-led research team has developed more accurate calculations for the interactions between molecules of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, essential for spectroscopy in astrophysics. These advancements enable researchers to analyze molecular clouds where stars are born with greater precision.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateMay 31, 2012

Fast, low-power, all-optical switch

The JQI switch can steer a beam of light from one direction to another in 120 picoseconds using only 140 photons, requiring minimal power. This achievement marks a significant step toward creating ultrafast and low-energy on-chip signal routers.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 3, 2012

Salk scientists discover how plants grow to escape shade

Researchers found that phytochrome interacting factor 7 (PIF7) serves as key messenger between plant's cellular light sensors and production of auxins, hormones that stimulate stem growth. This discovery could lead to high-yield crops that gather light more efficiently and make better use of farmland.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 15, 2012

Exotic materials will change optics, Duke researchers say

Duke researchers have developed exotic materials that can control light at will, allowing for the creation of holograms in the infrared range. The team's innovative approach enables a broad range of optical devices with complex properties, opening up new possibilities for advanced optics and optoelectronics.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 18, 2012

'Nanoantennas' show promise in optical innovations

Researchers at Purdue University have developed nanoantennas that precisely manipulate light, allowing for the alteration of its phase and propagation direction. This enables potential applications in steering and shaping laser beams, nanocircuits for computers, and powerful lenses for microscopes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateDec 22, 2011

How long do electrons live in graphene?

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have measured the lifetime of electrons in graphene in lower energy ranges. The study reveals that the energy of light particles and atomic lattice oscillations influence electron lifetimes, with longer lifetimes observed when excitation energies are lower than lattice oscillations.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 12, 2011

Health check on the road

A research team at TUM has developed a sensor system that monitors drivers' vital signs, including heart rate, skin conductance, and oxygen saturation, to prevent fainting spells or heart attacks. The system uses simple sensors in the steering wheel and can initiate measures such as phone call blocking or emergency braking if necessary.

VLT observations of gamma-ray burst reveal surprising ingredients of early galaxies

New study reveals two young galaxies at 12 billion years old with super-solar metal abundances, challenging our understanding of the universe's chemical evolution. The findings support the idea that gamma-ray bursts are associated with vigorous massive star formation and provide insights into the history of the early universe.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 2, 2011

Patented method transforms digital cameras for aerial color infrared photography

A team of scientists at the US Department of Agriculture has patented a method to convert commercial digital cameras into color infrared cameras for aerial photography. This technology allows for immediate image availability without further processing, making it ideal for detecting farmland extent and crop health. The innovation enable...

Taming light

Researchers achieve precise control over ultrashort light pulses, enabling the manipulation of electron motion in atoms and molecules. This breakthrough enables new tools for studying sub-atomic processes and understanding atomic interactions.

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

Scientists develop sensitive skin for robots

Researchers at TUM create an artificial skin for robots that simulates human-like touch and temperature detection, allowing machines to interact with their environment in a more human-like way. The system uses sensors to register movement and detect changes in the robot's surroundings, enabling it to develop self-awareness.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateJun 29, 2011