Aluminum nanoparticles could improve electronic displays

Using aluminum nanostructures could provide a vivid, low-cost alternative for producing digital color.

Leaf-mimicking device harnesses light to purify water

For years, scientists have been pursuing ways to imitate a leaf's photosynthetic power to make hydrogen fuel from water and sunlight. In a new twist, a team has come up with another kind of device that mimics two of a leaf?s processes to harness solar energy to purify water.

Scientists call for new tools to explore the world's microbiomes

In October, an interdisciplinary group of scientists proposed forming a Unified Microbiome Initiative to explore the world of microorganisms that are central to life on Earth and yet largely remain a mystery. An article describes the tools scientists will need to understand how microbes interact with each other and with us.

Adhesion ABC

Scientists have discovered the universal building blocks that cells use to form initial connections with the surrounding environment. These early adhesions have a consistent size of 100 nanometres, are made up of a cluster of around 50 integrin proteins and are the same even when the surrounding surface is hard or soft.

Using nanoparticles to combat arteriosclerosis

A method for guiding replacement cells to diseased vascular segments using nanoparticles. The scientists demonstrated in mice that the fresh cells actually exert their curative effect in these segments.

Nanowalls for smartphones

Researchers have now used 3D print technology to create a new type of transparent electrode, which takes the form of a grid made of gold or silver 'nanowalls' on a glass surface. The walls are so thin that they can hardly be seen with the naked eye.

Spooky interference at a distance in nanoscale circuits

Nanotechnologists have discovered a new fundamental property of electrical currents in very small metal circuits.

Sugar-based carbon hollow spheres that mimic moth eyes

This insect-inspired ordered monolayer of hollow carbon spheres may be a new, green and extremely lightweight antireflective coating that almost perfectly absorbs microwave radiation.