Science & Technology
Let there be (controlled) light
In the very near future, quantum computers are expected to revolutionize the way we compute, with new approaches to database searches, AI systems, simulations and more. But to achieve such novel quantum technology applications, photonic integrated circ…
Novel air filter captures wide variety of pollutants
An air filter made out of corn protein instead of petroleum products can concurrently capture small particulates as well as toxic chemicals like formaldehyde that current air filters can’t. The research could lead to better air purifiers, particularly …
Theory can sort order from chaos in complex quantum systems
Theoretical chemists have developed a theory that can predict the threshold at which quantum dynamics switches from ‘orderly’ to ‘random,’ as shown through research using large-scale computations on photosynthesis models.
Pairing students supports integration at universities
Some universities grapple with difficulties in integrating students from different countries. New research points to a method that both reduces academic and social gaps and increases well-being. The recipe for success is to work in pairs — as chosen b…
Why do Earth’s hemispheres look equally bright when viewed from space?
When seen from space, Earth’s hemispheres — northern and southern — appear equally bright. For years, the brightness symmetry between hemispheres remained a mystery. In a new study, researchers reveal a strong correlation between storm intensity, clo…
The quantum twisting microscope: A new lens on quantum materials
One of the striking aspects of the quantum world is that a particle, say, an electron, is also a wave, meaning that it exists in many places at the same time. Researchers make use of this property to develop a new type of tool — the quantum twisting m…
Digital markers near-perfect for predicting dementia in older drivers
Using ensemble learning techniques and longitudinal data from a large naturalistic driving study, researchers have developed a novel, interpretable and highly accurate algorithm for predicting mild cognitive impairment and dementia in older drivers. Di…
3D printing with bacteria-loaded ink produces bone-like composites
Researchers have published a method for 3D-printing an ink that contains calcium carbonate-producing bacteria. The 3D-printed mineralized bio-composite is unprecedentedly strong, light, and environmentally friendly, with a range of applications from ar…
Dynamic expression of brain serotonin receptors across the menstrual cycle provides clues about premenstrual dysphoric disorder
A new study explores the interplay between the serotonin system and estradiol in the brain, showing that the central nervous system in patients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) seems to increase serotonin transporter density from the periovu…
Children’s lung capacity improved in cleaner air
As air pollution in Stockholm has decreased, so has the lung capacity of children and adolescents has improved, a new study reports. The researchers consider the results important, since the lung health of the young greatly affects the risk of their de…
Wireless, soft e-skin for interactive touch communication in the virtual world
Sensing a hug from each other via the internet may be a possibility in the near future. A research team recently developed a wireless, soft e-skin that can both detect and deliver the sense of touch, and form a touch network allowing one-to-multiuser i…
Deer protected from deadly disease by newly discovered genetic differences
It was the height of summer 2022 when the calls started coming in. Scores of dead deer suddenly littered rural properties and park preserves, alarming the public and inconveniencing landowners. According to officials at the Urbana Park District, it was…
Single gene causes sea anemone’s stinging cell to lose its sting
When scientists disabled a single regulatory gene in a species of sea anemone, a stinging cell that shoots a venomous miniature harpoon for hunting and self-defense shifted to shoot a sticky thread that entangles prey instead, according to a new study.
Neutrons reveal key to extraordinary heat transport
Warming a crystal of the mineral fresnoite, scientists discovered that excitations called phasons carried heat three times farther and faster than phonons, the excitations that usually carry heat through a material.
A human interactome to prioritize drug discovery
Researchers create a network of interacting proteins — or interactome — to aid drug discovery.
Scientists record first-ever brain waves from freely moving octopuses
Scientists have successfully recorded brain activity from freely moving octopuses, a feat made possible by implanting electrodes and a data logger directly into the creatures. The study, published online in Current Biology on February 23, is a critical…
Skipping breakfast may compromise the immune system
A new study shows fasting can trigger a negative effect on fighting infection on a cellular level in mouse models.