n the current issue of Science, Stuart Lindsay, director of Arizona State University's Center for Single Molecule Biophysics at the Biodesign Institute, along with his colleagues, demonstrates the potential of a method in which a single-stranded ribbon of DNA is threaded through a carbon nanotube, producing voltage spikes that provide information about the passage of DNA bases as they pass through the tube - a process known as translocation.

Federal research dollars will help South Dakota State University scientists build a first-of-its-kind microscope that could ultimately help scientists at SDSU and elsewhere develop better solar cells for converting sunlight to electricity.

Researchers have identified a way to increase the oil in tobacco plant leaves, which may be the next step in using the plants for biofuel.

Researchers have found that weakened Plasmodium elicits a protective immune response.

After Mimivirus, Mamavirus and the virophage, the group of giant viruses now has a new member called Marseillevirus. The new virus was discovered in an amoeba by a team of French researchers. Their findings suggest the exchange of genes in amoebae that may lead to the constitution of different gene repertoires that could be a source of new pathogens.

Researchers report that they have successfully used RNA interference to turn off multiple genes in the livers of mice, an advance that could lead to new treatments for diseases of the liver and other organs.

When asked to compare apples to apples, consumers said they would pay more for locally grown apples than genetically modified (GMO) apples. But in a second questionnaire consumers preferred GMO apples -- that is, when they were described, not as GMO, but as having a Reduced Environmental Impact. The research demonstrated that product labeling makes a difference when it comes to consumer acceptance.

The future of solar as a viable energy source depends on its ability to reach grid parity, making it cost competitive with fossils and other sources. Government incentives have helped to bring solar closer to this goal, but to sustainably achieve the holy grail of grid parity, more improvements need to be made. Along these lines, the main focus of the solar industry has traditionally been on improving cell efficiencies for solar modules. The rationale has been that improved efficiencies will enable improved energy generation, as well as result in lowered costs in order to increase ROI for all stake-holders involved.

Atlantic Wind and Solar Inc. (AWSL) has closed a financing through which it will issue 1,000,000 Series A 12.00% Convertible Preferred Shares each with a par value of US $1.00 and quarterly interest payments.

enXco has announced that commercial operations of the 1.8-megawatt (MW) Belle Mean solar project have started. Located on the grounds of Carrier Clinic in Belle Mead, New Jersey, the solar system will supply 50% of Carrier Clinic's electrical needs under a 25-year Power Purchase agreement.