Applied Science

Design Sem Nome 49

Apple’s Pixar-Style Lamp-Bot Showcases the Friendly Side of Machines

Luxo Jr. has been a charming presence in every Pixar film since 1995, when the animated desk lamp first hopped onto the screen, playfully stomping on the studio’s logo in the opening credits. This iconic character has now inspired Apple researchers to explore ways to make robots more expressive and improve human-machine interactions—and the result […]

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Design Sem Nome 44

Robotic Dogs Handle Bomb Detection, Neutralization, and Disposal

We’ve seen robot dogs perform all kinds of unusual tasks, but what about using them to enhance safety? The British Ministry of Defence is deploying these mechanical canines to improve the efficiency and safety of bomb detection and defusal. While bomb disposal robots have been around for decades, they’ve significantly evolved since the British Army

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Microplastics May Build Up in the Brain More Than in the Kidneys or Liver

A recent study reveals that postmortem brain samples collected last year contain significantly more microplastics than those analyzed nearly a decade ago, suggesting these synthetic particles accumulate in vital organs over time. Researchers led by University of New Mexico health scientist Alexander Nihart found higher concentrations of microplastics in brain tissue compared to kidneys and

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Scientists Trick Neurons Into Thinking They’re Inside a Living Brain

Neurons, the brain’s essential cells, form intricate networks by exchanging signals, enabling learning and adaptation. Researchers at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in the Netherlands have created a 3D-printed environment that closely resembles real brain tissue. Using nanoscale pillars, they replicate the soft, fibrous structure that supports neurons. This innovation provides a more accurate

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Oral Microbes Could Influence Your Risk of Cognitive Decline

The bacteria in your mouth affect more than just your teeth and gums—they may also play a role in brain function. A study of 55 people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) found that those with higher levels of Neisseria bacteria performed better on tests of working memory, executive function, and visual attention. Even among 60

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How Bacteria Detect Nearby Death and Gear Up for Combat

Researchers at the University of Basel have uncovered how bacteria sense environmental threats using a universal danger signal. When nearby cells are dying, bacteria detect fragments of their cell walls, called peptidoglycans, and proactively form protective biofilms. This discovery sheds light on bacterial communication and defense mechanisms, offering insights for combating infections. Sensing Danger: The

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Design Sem Nome 3

A Robotic Sea Turtle Might Soon Be Gliding Through an Ocean Near You

When designing a fast, agile, and adaptable underwater robot, why not take inspiration from nature? That’s precisely what China’s Beatbot did with its bio-inspired Amphibious RoboTurtle. Unveiled as a prototype at CES last week, this autonomous robot is built for tasks like ecological research, environmental monitoring, and disaster response. Equipped for Advanced Exploration It can

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Microscopic Fossilized Embryos Unveil Fascinating Insights into Life 500 Million Years Ago

Tiny mineralized spheres are offering fresh insights into the history of life on Earth. These millimeter-sized fossils, over 535 million years old, are the fossilized embryos of early Cambrian animals. Belonging to the Ecdysozoa group—which includes insects, spiders, crustaceans, and worms—the embryos present a fascinating mystery. While researchers cannot definitively identify their adult forms, Mingjin

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An Impressive Robotic Hand Now has the Ability to Manipulate Objects it is Holding

Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix robot is undeniably remarkable, featuring hydraulically powered hands with exceptional dexterity. These hands have recently become even more versatile, as each can now simultaneously hold and manipulate an object. Typically, robotic fingers are operated using cables connected to electric motors. This setup is relatively straightforward, efficient, and cost-effective, provided the hand is

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Streamlined Robotic Manta Ray Swims Faster with a Simplified, Efficient Design

Just two years ago, a tiny robotic manta ray set a record as the fastest-swimming soft-bodied robot. Now, its upgraded successor has shattered that record while using less energy in the process. The original 22.8-mm-long robot was developed by Assoc. Prof. Jie Yin and his team at North Carolina State University. It featured two flexible

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