Intelligent, shape-morphing, self-healing material for soft robotics

Advances in the fields of soft robotics, wearable technologies, and human/machine interfaces require a new class of stretchable materials that can change shape adaptively while relying only on portable electronics for power. Researchers have developed such a material that exhibits a unique combination of high electrical and thermal conductivity with actuation capabilities that are unlike any other soft composite.

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Physicists couple key components of quantum technologies

Researchers are engaged in intensive work on the components of quantum technologies – these include circuits processing information using single photons instead of electricity, as well as light sources producing such quanta of light. Coupling these components to produce integrated quantum optical circuits on chips presents a challenge. Researchers have developed an interface that couples light sources for single photons with nanophotonic networks consisting of photonic crystals which can be replicated by using established nanofabrication processes.

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Rare 'Lazarus superconductivity' observed in promising, rediscovered material

A team of researchers has observed a rare phenomenon called re-entrant superconductivity in the material uranium ditelluride. Nicknamed 'Lazarus superconductivity,' the phenomenon occurs when a superconducting state arises, breaks down, then re-emerges in a material due to a change in a specific parameter — in this case, the application of a very strong magnetic field. The discovery furthers the case for uranium ditelluride as a promising material for use in quantum computers.

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Next-generation single-photon source for quantum information science

Researchers have built what they believe is 'the world's most efficient single-photon source.' And they are still improving it. With planned upgrades, the apparatus could generate upwards of 30 photons at unprecedented efficiencies. Sources of that caliber are precisely what's needed for optical quantum information applications.

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The fast dance of electron spins

Metal complexes show a fascinating behavior in their interactions with light, which for example is utilized in organic light emitting diodes, solar cells, quantum computers, or even in cancer therapy. In many of these applications, the electron spin, a kind of inherent rotation of the electrons, plays an important role. Researchers succeeded in simulating the extremely fast spin flip processes that are triggered by the light absorption of metal complexes.

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