Science & Technology
New theory promises to reshape how we think about polymer superstructures
Polymer scientists recently announced that they have solved a longstanding mystery surrounding a nanoscale structure, formed by collections of molecules, called a double-gyroid. This shape is one of the most desirable for materials scientists, and has …
Shaping the future of light through reconfigurable metasurfaces
Harnessing the power of ‘phase-change’ materials, researchers have demonstrated how reconfigurable metasurfaces — artificial materials with extraordinary optical properties — are crucial to the future of nanotechnology.
Stimulating brain circuits promotes neuron growth in adulthood, improving cognition and mood
Targeting specific brain cells modulated memory retrieval and altered anxiety-like behaviors in mice. Essentially, scientists boosted the electrical activity between cells in the hypothalamus and the hippocampus to create new neurons — an important pr…
Scientists provide more than 50K camera trap images for massive study on Amazon wildlife
Scientists working in the vast Amazon Basin have contributed more than 57,000 camera trap images for a new study.
Boost in nerve-growth protein helps explain why running supports brain health
Exercise increases levels of a chemical involved in brain cell growth, which bolsters the release of the ‘feel good’ hormone dopamine, a new study shows. Dopamine is known to play a key role in movement, motivation, and learning. Experts have long unde…
Assessing the impact of loss mechanisms in solar cell candidate
The superconductor antimony sulfide selenide is a potential candidate for solar materials, but this depends on understanding how to boost its efficiency.
Studying the pseudogap in superconducting cuprate materials
Despite being vital to the study of superconductivity in cuprate materials the physical origins of the pseudogap remain a mystery.
The way of water: Making advanced electronics with H2O
The market for expensive fabrication methods in electronics manufacturing could soon dry up after a high-performance material was created via solution processing.
New micro device injects a boost to IVF success
A research team has delivered a ground-breaking new micro-device to streamline the only fertility treatment procedure available for men with low sperm counts.
Policymakers underestimate methane’s climate and air quality impacts
Methane emissions have been increasing rapidly in recent years, contributing significantly to global warming. Despite this, methane is not adequately treated within existing national and international governance frameworks. Researchers now highlight th…
Seeing molecules inside a nanometer-sized ‘sardine can’
Researchers have successfully developed a new technique allowing them to observe gas molecules packing into metal-organic frameworks (MOF) using infrared spectroscopy. Their innovation was to measure polarized light absorption of guest molecules in a M…
Electronic skin: Physicist develops multisensory hybrid material
Recently developed ‘smart skin’ is very similar to human skin. It senses pressure, humidity and temperature simultaneously and produces electronic signals. More sensitive robots or more intelligent prostheses are thus conceivable.