Latest news with #Optica
Scoop
3 days ago
- Science
- Scoop
Study Uncovers Technologically Appealing Trick Used By Microalgae To Manipulate Light
Skoltech researchers and their colleagues have uncovered an intricate light manipulation mechanism likely used by microscopic algae to boost photosynthesis. By studying the interaction of light with the elaborately patterned silicon dioxide shells enclosing the single-celled algae, the team hopes to reveal principles that could eventually be leveraged in light detectors, bio- and chemical sensors, protective coatings against ultraviolet rays, solar cells, and other nature-inspired technology, right up to artificial photosynthesis systems using CO2 and water to make fuel. The Russian Science Foundation-backed study came out in the journal Optica. Diatom algae are extremely widespread and well-adapted microorganisms. They comprise a large part of phytoplankton, making up nearly half of the organic material found in the oceans and generating a quarter of the planet's oxygen. The distinctive feature of diatoms is a rigid cell wall made of a glassy substance and perforated with intricate hole patterns, which the algae use for protection, waste removal, nutrient uptake, and — as has been strongly suspected — manipulating light to make the most of the solar energy that reaches the ocean depths inhabited by the algae. 'By investigating the optical properties of diatoms of the species Coscinodiscus oculus-iridis, we have shown that these algae's frustules, or outer shells, with their intricate pattern of pores, exhibit what's known as the Talbot effect. Light undergoes diffraction on the hole pattern and is focused in numerous hotspots within the shell. While we don't think this is specifically what the diatoms evolved their sieve-like shells for, they certainly seem to exploit them to boost the efficiency of photosynthesis, possibly by strategically positioning their light-harvesting chloroplasts,' said the lead author of the study, Associate Professor Sergey Dyakov from Skoltech Physics. The team confirmed the occurrence of the Talbot effect with calculations and is planning to support the findings with an experiment with a scaled-up artificial structure mimicking the hole pattern of the frustule. Senior Research Scientist Julijana Cvjetinovic from Skoltech Photonics, a co-author of the study, commented on the kinds of biomimetic technology that could benefit from a better understanding of diatoms: 'As we gain more insights into the properties of diatom frustules, eventually some of the uncovered mechanisms could make their way into photonic devices, biosensors, self-adjusting light-sensitive coatings, and photovoltaics, maybe even artificial photosynthesis systems, which would tap into light energy and store it in the form of chemical fuel rather than electricity.' The grant project's principal investigator, Professor Dmitry Gorin from Skoltech Photonics shared his opinion on diatoms as an object of research: 'Diatoms are a striking example of another masterpiece of nature, which over millions of years of evolution has managed to create a perfect object in terms of combining optical and mechanical properties. I am sure that we will find many more interesting things in the process of further studying the physical and biochemical properties of diatoms.' The research team behind the study reported in this story also featured Professor Pavlos Lagoudakis of Skoltech Photonics, Professor Alexander Korsunsky, Assistant Professor Alexey Salimon, and Research Scientist Eugene Statnik of Skoltech Engineering, Professor Nikolay Gippius and Research Scientist Ilia Fradkin of Skoltech Physics (the latter also of MIPT), and PhD student Dmitry Dresvyankin, as well as their colleagues Eugene Maksimov from Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nickolai Davidovich from Vyazemsky Karadag Scientific Station of RAS, and Yekaterina Bedoshvili from the Limnological Institute of the Siberian Branch of RAS.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Science
- Scoop
Study Uncovers Technologically Appealing Trick Used By Microalgae To Manipulate Light
Press Release – Skoltech The team confirmed the occurrence of the Talbot effect with calculations and is planning to support the findings with an experiment with a scaled-up artificial structure mimicking the hole pattern of the frustule. Skoltech researchers and their colleagues have uncovered an intricate light manipulation mechanism likely used by microscopic algae to boost photosynthesis. By studying the interaction of light with the elaborately patterned silicon dioxide shells enclosing the single-celled algae, the team hopes to reveal principles that could eventually be leveraged in light detectors, bio- and chemical sensors, protective coatings against ultraviolet rays, solar cells, and other nature-inspired technology, right up to artificial photosynthesis systems using CO2 and water to make fuel. The Russian Science Foundation-backed study came out in the journal Optica. Diatom algae are extremely widespread and well-adapted microorganisms. They comprise a large part of phytoplankton, making up nearly half of the organic material found in the oceans and generating a quarter of the planet's oxygen. The distinctive feature of diatoms is a rigid cell wall made of a glassy substance and perforated with intricate hole patterns, which the algae use for protection, waste removal, nutrient uptake, and — as has been strongly suspected — manipulating light to make the most of the solar energy that reaches the ocean depths inhabited by the algae. 'By investigating the optical properties of diatoms of the species Coscinodiscus oculus-iridis, we have shown that these algae's frustules, or outer shells, with their intricate pattern of pores, exhibit what's known as the Talbot effect. Light undergoes diffraction on the hole pattern and is focused in numerous hotspots within the shell. While we don't think this is specifically what the diatoms evolved their sieve-like shells for, they certainly seem to exploit them to boost the efficiency of photosynthesis, possibly by strategically positioning their light-harvesting chloroplasts,' said the lead author of the study, Associate Professor Sergey Dyakov from Skoltech Physics. The team confirmed the occurrence of the Talbot effect with calculations and is planning to support the findings with an experiment with a scaled-up artificial structure mimicking the hole pattern of the frustule. Senior Research Scientist Julijana Cvjetinovic from Skoltech Photonics, a co-author of the study, commented on the kinds of biomimetic technology that could benefit from a better understanding of diatoms: 'As we gain more insights into the properties of diatom frustules, eventually some of the uncovered mechanisms could make their way into photonic devices, biosensors, self-adjusting light-sensitive coatings, and photovoltaics, maybe even artificial photosynthesis systems, which would tap into light energy and store it in the form of chemical fuel rather than electricity.' The grant project's principal investigator, Professor Dmitry Gorin from Skoltech Photonics shared his opinion on diatoms as an object of research: 'Diatoms are a striking example of another masterpiece of nature, which over millions of years of evolution has managed to create a perfect object in terms of combining optical and mechanical properties. I am sure that we will find many more interesting things in the process of further studying the physical and biochemical properties of diatoms.' The research team behind the study reported in this story also featured Professor Pavlos Lagoudakis of Skoltech Photonics, Professor Alexander Korsunsky, Assistant Professor Alexey Salimon, and Research Scientist Eugene Statnik of Skoltech Engineering, Professor Nikolay Gippius and Research Scientist Ilia Fradkin of Skoltech Physics (the latter also of MIPT), and PhD student Dmitry Dresvyankin, as well as their colleagues Eugene Maksimov from Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nickolai Davidovich from Vyazemsky Karadag Scientific Station of RAS, and Yekaterina Bedoshvili from the Limnological Institute of the Siberian Branch of RAS.
Sustainability Times
12-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'These Clocks Just Changed Time Forever': Global Team Unites Ten Ultra-Precise Devices Across Six Countries to Radically Redefine the Second
IN A NUTSHELL ⏰ Scientists from six countries linked ten optical clocks to redefine the precision of the second. to redefine the precision of the second. 🔬 The project demonstrated unprecedented consistency in frequency ratio measurements, crucial for a new global timekeeping standard. in frequency ratio measurements, crucial for a new global timekeeping standard. 🌐 Innovative technologies like ultra-stable optical fiber links were used to achieve precision 100 times greater than satellite methods. were used to achieve precision 100 times greater than satellite methods. 📚 The findings, published in Optica, promise to transform scientific exploration and redefine the International System of Units by 2030. In a groundbreaking effort to redefine how we measure time, scientists across six nations have embarked on an ambitious project to enhance the precision of the second. The traditional cesium-based atomic clocks, which have long been the standard for defining time, are being challenged by optical clocks that promise unparalleled accuracy. Over the course of 45 days, 69 scientists from Europe and Japan collaborated to link ten optical clocks via satellite signals and ultra-stable optical fiber connections. This monumental endeavor marks a significant step towards establishing a new global standard for timekeeping. Redefining Time with Optical Precision The need to redefine the second stems from the inherent limitations of cesium clocks, which can deviate by a second every 100 million years. In contrast, today's optical clocks boast a precision so advanced that they wouldn't lose or gain a second in billions of years. Optical clocks operate by using lasers to induce precise energy shifts in atoms, creating ultra-stable 'ticks' that more accurately mark time. During the experiment, researchers conducted 38 frequency ratio measurements, setting a new benchmark for consistency. Four of these comparisons were unprecedented, underscoring the feasibility of a future global optical time scale. This initiative not only opens the door to redefining the second but also paves the way for testing fundamental physics, including searches for dark matter and validating the laws of physics. 'We Spent 8 Years Building This': Watchmakers Unveil the Most Complex Timepiece Ever Created in Human History As Thomas Lindvall from VTT MIKES remarked, 'Comparing multiple clocks simultaneously and using diverse link technologies provides more comprehensive data than previous pairwise comparisons.' This coordinated approach is crucial for identifying which optical clock will best serve in the new definition of the second. The Science Behind Synchronization The success of this project relied heavily on innovative link technologies. While GPS satellite signals provided essential global connectivity, their precision was compromised by factors like signal noise and atmospheric interference. To counter these limitations, scientists employed custom optical fiber links, which allowed for measurements with up to 100 times greater precision. 'We're Entering the Mach 5 Era': US Military's SR-72 Hypersonic Jet Set to Shatter Speed Limits With 2025 Debut These ultra-stable connections were pivotal in linking clocks in France, Germany, and Italy. Additionally, short-range optical fibers facilitated in-country comparisons within the UK and Germany, where multiple clocks resided in single institutes. This approach minimized uncertainties and bolstered the stability of measurements. The meticulous planning and execution of this experiment were not without challenges. As Rachel Godun from NPL noted, 'Some results diverged from expectations, highlighting the importance of using multiple linking techniques to identify sources of discrepancies.' 'Plastic Is Invading Your Brain!': Explosive Global Study Links Shocking Microplastic Levels Directly to Skyrocketing Dementia and Memory Collapse Anticipating a New Standard by 2030 With the anticipated redefinition of the second in the International System of Units expected by 2030, the findings from this experiment are both timely and revolutionary. The collaborative effort has not only demonstrated the feasibility of a new timekeeping standard but also highlighted the potential for optical clocks to transform our understanding of time. The precision achieved in this study is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the scientists involved. By linking clocks across vast distances and employing cutting-edge technologies, they have laid the groundwork for a new era in timekeeping. This research, published in Optica, promises to influence future developments in international time standards and scientific exploration. Implications for Future Research and Exploration The implications of redefining the second extend beyond precise timekeeping. Optical clocks could enable new tests of physical theories, offering insights into areas such as gravitational waves and the fundamental forces of nature. As scientists continue to push the boundaries of accuracy, the potential for groundbreaking discoveries grows exponentially. This project also exemplifies the power of international collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge. By bringing together expertise from multiple countries, the consortium has achieved a level of precision and reliability that was previously unattainable. Such efforts underscore the importance of global cooperation in tackling complex scientific challenges. As we move closer to establishing a new standard for the second, the question remains: How will these advancements shape the future of scientific inquiry and our understanding of the universe? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (21)
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TrusTrace's New, AI-Powered Data Hub Gives Insights on Supply Chain Compliance
TrusTrace wants clients to put their trust in its data quality. The supply chain traceability provider announced Tuesday it had launched an upgraded platform which leverages artificial intelligence to conglomerate and analyze data, in turn offering up recommendations and monitoring supply chain risks to flag to the client. More from Sourcing Journal Tech Tactics: Bluecore Brings AI Shopping Assistant Alby to Shopify Retailers Deda Stealth CEO Explains Why Tariffs Made This Year the Right Time for U.S. Expansion Amazon's Latest AI Feature Allows Sellers to Upgrade Old Listings Shameek Ghosh, CEO of TrusTrace, said he believes the update will help clients take charge of their supply chains in a new way, particularly in a time of economic uncertainty. 'In today's high-stakes regulatory and business environment, access to accurate, real-time sustainability data shouldn't be a privilege—it should be a given,' Ghosh said in a statement. 'We've built a powerful, AI-assisted supply chain data hub that allows companies to quickly and easily collect and analyze data at any scale, empowering them to move from reactive crisis management to proactive impact-driven strategies. This is the future of responsible, resilient business.' The system can now gather supply chain data from multiple sources, including suppliers, compliance documents and internal records; flag risks for proactive management; find holes in information necessary for compliance processes; help clients make decisions with a more holistic view of supply chain and more. It does so by leveraging AI to parse through the data, which it contends betters the data sets and allows for data to be used for many purposes, rather than being siloed. TrusTrace noted that the technology is applicable to small-to-medium businesses and large enterprises alike. It said brands and manufacturers are already using the upgraded platform, but did not disclose who the earliest clients testing the new system included. The announcement comes on the heels of the Swedish company's partnership with Avery Dennison, aimed at providing stronger transparency into raw materials' origins and uses throughout the supply chain, so that clients can discern a clear chain of custody. The collaboration saw Avery Dennison integrating TrusTrace's technology into its end-to-end supply chain solution, Optica. Kenny Liu, vice president and general manager S. Asia, EMEA and Optica at Avery Dennison, said the business relationship enriched the company's ability to provide meaningful information and insights to its clients. 'Navigating today's complex global supply chains requires reliable, streamlined access to comprehensive data,' Liu said in a statement. 'By integrating TrusTrace into our Optica portfolio of supply chain solutions, we're equipping brands with the tools they need to map their supply chains, verify raw material origins, and confidently meet evolving regulatory demands. This level of transparency empowers smarter sourcing decisions and ultimately drives meaningful impact across the entire supply chain.'
