Spintronic devices have revolutionized the field of electronics, offering high-speed processing and low-cost data storage. The spin of electrons plays a crucial role in enabling such devices, with spin-transfer torque being a key phenomenon. However, recent advancements in spin-orbit torque (SOT) have introduced new possibilities for spintronic devices. Research has shown that the spin Hall
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Exposure to mercury (Hg) is notoriously known for its extreme neurotoxic effects, even to those who study mercury compounds themselves. Renowned physicist Michael Faraday experienced firsthand the detrimental consequences of prolonged exposure to mercury vapors, which forced him to halt his research due to deteriorating health. Another tragic example is lab chemist Karen Wetterhahn, who
In today’s world, communication infrastructure plays a critical role in enabling the quick and easy sharing of information. However, while urban African communities have benefited from this connectivity, the same cannot be said for rural areas. In these regions, where resources are scarce and investment opportunities are limited, residents face significant challenges in reliable communication.
Ultra-intense ultrashort lasers have expanded their scope of applications over the years, spanning across various fields such as basic physics, national security, industrial services, and healthcare. These lasers have proven to be an invaluable tool for research in strong-field laser physics, particularly in areas such as laser-driven radiation sources, laser particle acceleration, vacuum quantum electrodynamics,
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are making significant strides in their efforts to convert waste into fuels and other valuable products using energy-efficient and renewable processes. Their focus lies specifically in tackling the challenge of converting carbon dioxide (CO2), a prominent greenhouse gas, into useful chemicals through the use of electricity. Converting CO2 into
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have uncovered a fascinating link between gut microbes and weight gain, shedding light on the potential impact of early exposure to antibiotics on childhood obesity. By feeding young mice a high or low fat diet, with or without antibiotics, the team observed that mice on a high fat diet and exposed
After successfully landing on the Moon, the next frontier for humanity is Mars. However, this ambitious endeavor presents a whole new set of challenges in the realm of space travel. In an exciting development, NASA recently announced a major breakthrough in rocket engine technology that could propel us to the Red Planet at unprecedented speed.
When it comes to atoms, there are three key components: protons, neutrons, and electrons. While electrons are considered fundamental particles, protons and neutrons are composite particles made up of up and down quarks. Protons consist of two ups and one down quark, while neutrons have two downs and one up quark. However, due to the
Africa has been plagued by wildfires for thousands of years, and the situation shows no signs of improvement. In fact, the migrating African wildfire season is steadily increasing, with the continent experiencing more than 50% of the total area on Earth that is burning, on average. These wildfires have a significant impact on the African
The European Union (EU) has become increasingly concerned about its supply-chain vulnerabilities, especially in industries such as auto, computer, electronics, and energy. The reliance on non-EU countries for critical raw materials has exposed the EU to geopolitical risks and potential disruptions. In response to these concerns, experts like Dr. Arne Petter Ratvik and Dr. Jewellord
The field of catalyst discovery plays a crucial role in various industries, from the production of everyday products like yogurt and Post-It notes to the development of sustainable energy sources. Traditionally, scientists have relied on laborious experiments and complex quantum chemistry calculations to identify optimal catalyst materials for specific reactions. However, in recent years, the
In the world of high-volume, computer vision first applications, such as service robotics, automotive, and consumer electronics, the use of shortwave infrared (SWIR) light can offer unparalleled reliability, function, and performance. SWIR image sensors are capable of operating under adverse conditions like bright sunlight, fog, haze, and smoke, making them highly desirable in a range
When it comes to cholesterol, we often categorize it as either ‘good’ or ‘bad’ based on its impact on heart health. However, a recent study has shed new light on the potential health risks associated with the ‘good’ type of cholesterol, known as High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C). Contrary to popular belief, excessive levels of HDL-C
The Solar System is a treasure trove of celestial wonders, and the recent unveiling of Jupiter’s moon, Io, in stunning detail has left scientists in awe. On 30 December 2023, the Juno probe made history by conducting its closest flyby of Io to date, capturing breathtaking images that showcase the moon’s volcanic activity. With its
As the global shift towards greener power sources gains momentum, the focus on transitioning from gas to electricity extends beyond just vehicles. Powering the vast manufacturing network responsible for producing essential products, from batteries to fertilizers, also needs to embrace sustainability. In a recent study published in Nature Catalysis, UChicago chemists have made significant progress
