Scientists demonstrate basics of nucleic acid computing inside cells

Using strands of nucleic acid, scientists have demonstrated basic computing operations inside a living mammalian cell. The research could lead to an artificial sensing system that could control a cell?s behavior in response to such stimuli as the presence of toxins or the development of cancer.

Scientists use wood nanofibers to create biodegradable, renewable alternative to Styrofoam

Maybe soon we can say goodbye to polystyrene, the petroleum-based material that is used to make Styrofoam. In what looks like an ordinary bicycle helmet, designers have replaced Styrofoam with a new shock-absorbing material made with renewable and biodegradable wood-based material.

Quantum knots are real!

The very first experimental observations of knots in quantum matter have just been reported. The scientists created knotted solitary waves, or knot solitons, in the quantum-mechanical field describing a gas of superfluid atoms, also known as a Bose?Einstein condensate.

Light-activated nanoparticles prove effective against antibiotic-resistant superbugs

In the ever-escalating evolutionary battle with drug-resistant bacteria, humans may soon have a leg up thanks to adaptive, light-activated nanotherapy.

Tiny electronic implants monitor brain injury, then melt away

A new class of small, thin electronic sensors can monitor temperature and pressure within the skull - crucial health parameters after a brain injury or surgery - then melt away when they are no longer needed, eliminating the need for additional surgery to remove the monitors and reducing the risk of infection and hemorrhage.

Cheaper solar cells with 20.2 percent efficiency

EPFL scientists have developed a solar-panel material that can cut down on photovoltaic costs while achieving competitive power-conversion efficiency of 20.2%.

Using spider silk to detect molecules (w/video)

Fiber optics specialists have discovered some unique qualities of spider silk when it comes to conducting light and reacting to certain substances.

Reconfigurable micro spirals control light

Device switches Terahertz light circular polarization state using MEMS technology.

Strongest ever spin-phonon coupling observed

Based on the recent observation of spin-phonon coupling in osmium oxide, scientists found that the coupling was the strongest ever observed.