Read article: Free-electron laser benefits from ‘seed’ light Ultrafast science Research update Free-electron laser benefits from ‘seed’ light Technique produces shortest wavelengths for a FEL
Transport properties Research update Nanotubes measure DNA conductivity Tiny structural changes boost resistance
Read article: Glassy metals are tougher than steel Surfaces and interfaces Research update Glassy metals are tougher than steel Materials could be used in aerospace engineering
Read article: Researchers create ‘self-healing’ rubber Surfaces and interfaces Research update Researchers create ‘self-healing’ rubber New material stretches the imagination
Read article: Secret of sandcastle building revealed Soft matter and liquids Research update Secret of sandcastle building revealed Water bridges the gap between grains
Read article: Seeing the hidden fresco Transport properties Research update Seeing the hidden fresco Terahertz radiation can see through walls
Surfaces and interfaces Research update Physicists get to the bottom of volcano hotspots Mantle plumes rise to the occasion
Read article: Holography gets smart Transport properties Feature Holography gets smart Exploring the potential of holograms that can respond
Read article: Light could trap and release bacteria Ultracold matter Research update Light could trap and release bacteria Optofluidic simulations may lead to new sensors
Read article: Casimir effect goes classical Surfaces and interfaces Research update Casimir effect goes classical Physicists directly measure the “critical Casimir effect”
Optics & Photonics Briefing This issue explores lasers and detectors, solar power, medical imaging and high-resolution displays