Solar energy has proven to be an invaluable resource in the face of increasing energy demands and growing environmental concerns. However, the efficiency of traditional silicon solar cell technologies still has room for improvement. Recognizing this need, a research group from the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC, Lithuania), in collaboration with partners from
In recent years, mycelial fibers have gained recognition as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. Known for their excellent formability, these fibrous cells found in fruiting mushroom bodies have shown great potential for applications such as leather and packaging. As the world grapples with the growing problem of waste, scientists are seeking out eco-friendly materials
Over the years, laser technology has become an integral part of the information society, offering a wide range of applications. Optical crystals play a crucial role in the functionality of laser devices by enabling frequency conversion, parametric amplification, and signal modulation. However, the existing optical crystals have faced limitations in meeting the future demands of
In recent years, scientists have been making significant progress in the field of brain organoid research. Organoids are miniature models of organs that are created in the laboratory using stem cells. They have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of various diseases and disorders, including those of the brain. However, until now, the creation of
The United States is taking a significant leap towards space exploration by embarking on a return to the Moon. On January 8, the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket successfully launched a lunar lander called Peregrine from the commercial company Astrobotic. What makes this mission even more intriguing is the inclusion of five science payloads from
Household chores are often viewed as tedious and mundane. After a long day, the last thing most people want to do is engage in domestic tasks. However, in the world of video games, these activities take on a whole new level of excitement and entertainment. Australian game developers have created innovative video games that transform
Two-dimensional (2D) semiconducting materials have shown great potential in the development of electronic devices, such as wearables and smaller electronics. These materials offer advantages over bulkier counterparts due to their ability to retain carrier mobility even at reduced thickness. However, the use of 2D semiconductors in creating monolayer transistors, which are thinner versions of crucial
Constellations have always captured our imagination, sometimes requiring a healthy dose of creativity to see the hidden shapes and figures. Nonetheless, the recent discovery of two stone disks at the entrance of an ancient fort in Italy challenges our perception of these ethereal formations. These stones, adorned with subtle markings, have puzzled experts who believe
Many individuals who are trying to kick-start their weight loss or shed a few pounds before a special occasion often consider trying a crash diet. These diets, characterized by drastically reducing calorie intake to 800-1,200 calories per day for a few weeks at a time, have gained popularity due to influencers and social media. Proponents
Google has recently implemented measures to restrict third-party cookies for some users of its popular web browser, Chrome. This move marks a significant step towards the eventual elimination of these files, which have long been a source of concern for privacy advocates. However, Google emphasizes that the complete removal of third-party cookies will require approval
A recent study conducted by a team of engineers and atmospheric scientists at Harvard University, together with a colleague from the California Institute of Technology’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, has shed light on the alarming increase in methane emissions resulting from the expansion of rice farming in parts of Africa. The researchers recalculated methane emissions due
For decades, the chemical industry has been plagued by its association with pollution and environmental harm. The image of billowing smokestacks and toxic waste discharges has overshadowed the crucial role that chemicals play in our everyday lives. However, there is hope for a more sustainable future. Caltech’s Karthish Manthiram, a respected professor of chemical engineering
The nature of dark matter, that enigmatic substance that makes up a significant portion of the universe, seems to have become even more perplexing. Recent observations of the more recent universe suggest that the distribution of dark matter has changed compared to its early spread after the Big Bang. It appears to be less clumpy
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
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
