Monday, December 29, 2014

Detecting extraterrestrial life through nanoscale vibrations

Scientists have developed an extremely sensitive yet simple motion detector that can be built easily by adapting already-existent technology. The system has proven accurate with detecting bacteria, yeast, and even cancer cells, and is considered for the rapid testing of drugs and even the detection of extraterrestrial life.

Microscopy reveals how atom-high steps impede oxidation of metal surfaces

A new study reveals that certain features of metal surfaces can stop the process of oxidation in its tracks. The findings could be relevant to understanding and perhaps controlling oxidation in a wide range of materials.


A qubit candidate shines brighter

Precisely placing imperfections called 'nitrogen vacancy centers' within nano-sized diamond structures can boost their fluorescence, a key step toward using the defects in future quantum computers.


Study unveils new half-light half-matter quantum particles

In a pioneering study, researchers were able to discover half-light, half-matter particles in atomically thin semiconductors consisting of two-dimensional layer of molybdenum and sulfur atoms arranged similar to graphene.

Gummy bears under antiparticle fire

Gelatin is used in the pharmaceutical industry to encapsulate active agents. It protects against oxidation and overly quick release. Nanopores in the material have a significant influence on this, yet they are difficult to investigate. In experiments on gummy bears, researchers have now transferred a methodology to determine the free volume of gelatin preparations.