When using a microscope to view biological samples, it is crucial to consider the potential for distortion caused by the difference in refractive indices between the lens medium and the sample medium. This phenomenon results in the sample appearing flattened due to the bending of light rays. In the past, it was assumed that the
Recent research has uncovered alarming findings regarding the absorption of cancer-causing flame retardants through the skin. These dangerous chemicals, known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are commonly found in plastics, furniture, fabrics, and electronics, posing a significant risk to human health. The study, published in the journal Environment International, utilized a state-of-the-art 3D-printed skin model
In the fast-evolving world of technology, the demand for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is constantly on the rise. These batteries are the powerhouse behind numerous electronic devices such as computers, communication devices, and consumer electronics. To keep up with the increasing consumer demands, LIBs need to possess higher energy density, longer cycling life, faster-charging capability,
Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute for Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) recently stumbled upon an intriguing pattern in two widely used databases of electronic structures: the Materials Project database and the Materials Cloud 3-dimensional crystal structures database. What caught their attention was the fact that approximately 60 percent of structures in both databases exhibited primitive
A groundbreaking study by researchers from Washington State University and the University of Oregon has revealed a fascinating phenomenon known as ‘bacterial vampirism.’ This discovery sheds light on particular types of bacteria that are mysteriously drawn to human blood, a phenomenon that can have grave consequences, leading to fatal infections. The team’s findings highlight how
The world of 3D printing is constantly evolving, with new innovations and breakthroughs changing the way we manufacture objects. Scientists and engineers are always looking for ways to improve the functionality and efficiency of 3D printing processes. One such advancement comes in the form of a new coating for plastic particles used in 3D printing.
The recent data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service has revealed some alarming trends in global weather patterns. While February 2024 has been recorded as the warmest February on a global scale, regions in North America, Asia, and parts of Europe have experienced extreme cold temperatures. The stark contrast between increasing temperatures globally and record-breaking
The world of microscopy has always been a fascinating realm where scientists delve deep into the unseen structures of living organisms. However, one of the major limitations faced by scientists has been the low resolution of mid-infrared microscopy in comparison to other advanced techniques. While super-resolution fluorescent microscopes and electron microscopes have been able to
Robots with wheels have shown great potential in navigating various indoor and outdoor environments, offering the ability to travel longer distances with fewer risks of losing balance. However, a common limitation faced by wheeled robots is their inability to reliably overcome steps or uneven terrains. This limitation restricts their real-world applications, as they may get
The spinal cord, often overlooked in comparison to the brain, plays a crucial role in motor learning and memory. While traditionally believed that these functions were solely confined to the brain, recent research has shown that spinal nerves also play a significant role in memorizing responses to potential threats. The diverse populations of neurons found
Pluto, the distant dwarf planet in our solar system, is home to a striking feature known as the “heart,” a bright valentine-shaped region called Tombaugh Regio. This unique formation has puzzled scientists for years, and the most likely scenario for its origin involves a dramatic collision with a planetary body over 400 miles wide. A
The severity and frequency of wildfires have been on the rise globally in recent years, with many attributing this trend to the effects of climate change. However, a study conducted by UC Riverside points to another significant factor – the increase in carbon dioxide levels. The study revealed that the rising levels of CO2 in
The recent advancements in research have paved the way for developing novel substances with modified structural motifs commonly found in pharmaceuticals. Sustainable chemical transformations have gained significant importance globally across various industries. Electrochemistry has emerged as a key player in driving the development of sustainable synthetic routes, thereby reducing the generation of waste associated with
Fusion energy has long been heralded as the future of clean and sustainable energy production. Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) have been working tirelessly to develop innovative methods for managing plasma in order to achieve the dream of generating electricity through fusion. In a recent study, they
The implementation of deepfake porn policies in social media platforms has become a crucial issue that needs to be addressed effectively. Meta’s oversight board recently announced that they are closely examining Meta’s policies regarding deepfake pornography through two specific cases. This move comes after the widespread sharing of AI-generated explicit images of public figures on