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Exotic quasiparticles known as 'anyons' have intriguing fundamental and practical properties. A proposal for a solid-state structure in which anyons might 'live' provides fresh ideas for getting a practical handle on them.
A quantum dot is usually charged by inserting electrons. But electrons can also be removed from a neutral dot. Unexpectedly, positively charged dots are different from highly charged negative ones, which have their own peculiarities.
In the developing world, building a research community might not seem a priority, but it is a means to strengthen the development agenda and secure the future.
South Africa has recognized the importance of science in the development of its society, in moving away from its apartheid past and striving to eradicate poverty. Opportunities abound in its growing programme of physics research.