Tuning thermal expansion with origami metamaterials

Scientists have combined experiments and simulations to demonstrate that origami metamaterials provide a new platform for the design of systems with a wide range of coefficients of thermal expansion.

Nanogenerator-powered acceleration sensor

Researchers have demonstrated a self-powered acceleration sensor based on liquid metal triboelectric nanogenerator, which was composed of an inner liquid metal droplet (mercury) and an outer acrylic shell.

Killing cancer in the heat of the moment

A new method efficiently transfers genes into cells, then activates them with light. This could lead to gene therapies for cancers.

Powerful new photodetector can enable optoelectronics advances

Researchers have fabricated a nanoscale photodetector that combines a unique fabrication method and light-trapping structures.

Researchers develop tumor-targeting MRI contrast based on human protein

Scientists have designed a human protein-based tumor-targeting MRI contrast that can be easily cleared by the body. The discovery has great promise for clinical applications.

'Shape memory' effect demonstrated in gold particles

Achieved through defects-mediated diffusion in the particle, the discovery could one day lead to development of micro- and nano-robots capable of self-repair; mechanically stable and damage-tolerant components and devices; and targeted drug delivery.

Nanoscale forces measured in aortic smooth muscle cells tell story of disease

Researchers use nanonet force microscopy to measure forces in aortic smooth muscle cells to track progression of disease.