🤖 Computer Science

MIT engineers design flexible “skeletons” for soft, muscle-powered robots

Muscle fibers are incredibly efficient actuators, outperforming many synthetic counterparts in power and precision. Engineers are exploring ways to use natural muscles to power robots, creating biohybrid designs capable of various functions. However, each robot design requires a unique approach to maximize muscle efficiency.

Machine learning-based detection of acute psychosocial stress from body posture and movements

Studying acute stress responses is essential for understanding stress mechanisms. Current assessment methods, like self-reports and biomarkers, have limitations. We propose observing body movements as a promising additional modality. In this study, we explored the link between acute psychosocial stress and body posture and movements.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

Magnetic levitation: New material offers potential for unlocking gravity-free technology

OIST's Quantum Machines Unit is researching levitating materials— substances that remain suspended without physical contact or support. Typically, magnetic fields achieve this, allowing objects like superconductors to float above magnets. Prof. Jason Twamley and his team have crafted a floating platform using graphite and magnets within a vacuum. This self-powered platform aids in creating ultra-sensitive sensors for precise measurements.

Heat capacity measurements reveal Majorana fermions

Japanese and Korean researchers have discovered what they believe is "conclusive evidence" for Majorana fermions, a type of particle theorized but never observed. They found evidence of these particles in the thermodynamic behavior of a Kitaev magnet, suggesting that alternative theories cannot explain their observations.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Gut Bacteria's Influence on Obesity Differs in Men and Women

New research suggests that gut bacteria associated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and fat mass differ between men and women. Consequently, interventions aimed at preventing obesity may need to be tailored differently for each gender.

The time has come for over-the-counter antidepressants

Currently, oral contraceptives are available over the counter in the United States, following the FDA's approval of norgestrel (Opill). This decision reflects the drug's safety and the necessity for broader access to birth control. However, another safe class of medication, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which address a significant public health need, remains accessible only by prescription.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Rocket Lab wins $14.4 million contract to launch Space Test Program experiment

On April 8, the U.S. Space Force revealed that it had granted Rocket Lab a contract worth $14.4 million to launch a Space Test Program experiment into very low Earth orbit.

🌐 Others

Archaeologists find that Neanderthals and Homo sapiens organized living spaces similarly

In a Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory publication, archaeologists from Université de Montréal and the University of Genoa uncover that Neanderthals, far from being primitive, exhibited behaviors similar to Homo sapiens by creating living spaces.

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