Applied Science

Life from the Thermodynamic Perspective: Unraveling Temporal Asymmetry

Life is perceived as a system perpetually defying equilibrium in thermodynamics, steadfastly opposing the relentless march toward chaos. This defiance embodies the essence of irreversibility, establishing an indelible connection between life and the ‘arrow of time,’ a concept introduced by the English physicist Arthur Eddington in 1927. Unlocking Temporal Asymmetry A groundbreaking effort by...

Vascular Cells are Crucial for Long-term Memory Formation

Credit: PixaobayResearch on long-term memories has largely focused on the role of neurons—the brain's nerve cells. However, in recent years, scientists are discovering that other cell types are also vital in memory formation and storage.A recent study, published in the journal Neuron, sheds light on the essential role of vascular system cells called pericytes...

Fourier and Tesla Showcase Impressive Strides in Humanoid Robotics

Fourier is working to ship 100 GR-1 robots to early customers by the end of the yearFourier IntelligenceWhile Tesla's Optimus robot demonstrates fresh skills in sorting and balancing during one-legged yoga, Fourier Intelligence, a Singaporean firm, has unveiled a video revealing the manufacturing journey of its incredibly robust GR-1 humanoid.Fourier asserts that the GR-1...

Why Our Skin Feels ‘Tight’ After Using Facial Cleanser

Stanford’s study reveals the mechanics behind skin sensations post-cleansing and moisturizing, offering insights for improved skincare product development and potential applications in wearable tech communication. Credit: iStockResearchers from Stanford University have revealed the process responsible for the sensation of skin tightness that occurs after cleansing and the subsequent relief provided by moisturizing. Their findings,...

Key Players in Anaerobic Digestion for Enhanced Biogas Production

Scientists discover Darwinibacteriales, a game-changing bacteria order, revolutionizing biogas production. Potential to enhance renewable energy globally. Credit: bioRxiv (2023). DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.08.556800In a significant breakthrough, scientists from the European research project Micro4Biogas have identified a new taxonomic order of bacteria known as Darwinibacteriales, which play a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter and have the...

Progress in Soft Robotics: Robot Overcomes Complex Obstacles

Credit: Unsplush.Researchers who initially engineered a soft robot capable of maneuvering through basic mazes without external guidance have extended their innovation. They've created a "brainless" soft robot to navigate more intricate and dynamic environments.This new soft robot relies on physical intelligence, where its actions are governed by its structural design and materials rather than a computer or...

Advancing Algorithms through Statistics and Operations Research

Rahul Mazumder, an associate professor at MIT Sloan, develops and improves statistical models for a variety of uses. Credit: MIT.In our data-centric era, organizations rely extensively on data-rich models and algorithms, from insurers to health providers and social media platforms. These tools help discern user characteristics and influence behavior positively.However, optimizing these models...

Revolutionizing Tailsitter Flight: MIT’s Innovative Trajectory Planning Algorithms

Airplane. Credit: Unsplush.MIT researchers have broken new ground in aerial robotics by developing cutting-edge algorithms tailored for the precise trajectory planning and control of tailsitter aircraft. These algorithms harness the exceptional maneuverability and versatility of tailsitters, enabling them to perform daring maneuvers like sideways and upside-down flight. Notably, these algorithms boast remarkable computational efficiency, capable of...

AI-Driven Discovery of Critical-Element-Free Magnetic Materials

Magnet Material. Credit: Unsplush.A team of scientists from the Ames National Laboratory has unveiled a groundbreaking machine learning model designed to identify critical-element-free permanent magnet materials. This novel model is a predictive tool for assessing the Curie temperature of fresh material combinations, marking a pivotal advancement in the application of artificial intelligence to forecast new...

Newly Discovered Brain Cells Bridge Neurons and Glial Cells

Neurons. Credit: Unsplash.A research team from the University of Lausanne (UNIL) and the Wyss Center has uncovered a novel class of brain cells that plays a pivotal role in brain function. These cells, possessing hybrid characteristics between neurons and glial cells, are found in various brain regions in mice and humans, offering unique insights into memory,...