🤖 Computer Science

Spike-based dynamic computing with asynchronous sensing-computing neuromorphic chip

Neuromorphic computing, inspired by human brain neurons and synapses, offers energy-efficient machine intelligence. This work introduces "Speck," an asynchronous neuromorphic chip with low resting power (0.42mW) and dynamic computing capabilities. By addressing "dynamic imbalance" in spiking neural networks, it achieves real-time power consumption as low as 0.70mW, highlighting neuromorphic computing's potential.

FastDrag: Manipulate Anything in One Step

FastDrag is a novel one-step drag-based image editing method that accelerates the process, offering precise control over image contents with a few clicks. Unlike traditional methods requiring time-consuming n-step iterations for latent semantic optimization, FastDrag enhances practical applications.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

First topological quantum simulator device in strong light-matter interaction regime to operate at room temperatures

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have created a hair-width device to investigate matter and light's fundamental nature. Made of a photonic topological insulator, it guides photons to specific interfaces, preventing scattering. Published in Nature Nanotechnology, this innovation could enhance laser efficiency in various fields.

Simple preparation method improves access to long-known superacid

Researchers in Germany have developed a simple, one-step method for synthesizing aluminium tris(fluorosulfate), a stable and cheap solid-state Lewis superacid. This new process, which avoids using mercury, makes the superacid more practical for industrial applications by enhancing its stability and simplifying its preparation.

Theory and experiment combine to shine a new light on proton spin

Nuclear physicists have developed a new method combining experimental data and advanced calculations to better understand proton spin contributions from the glue holding protons together. Led by Joseph Karpie at the U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, this approach also aids in imaging the proton's 3D structure. Since 1987, it has been known that quarks contribute only about 30% of proton spin, with the rest from elusive sources now being investigated.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

What Happens in the Brain to Cause Depression?

For decades, depression treatments like SSRIs were based on the idea of low serotonin levels, but this theory is outdated. Recent research explores other neurotransmitters and brain adaptability. New drugs like ketamine, which help regrow synapses, are revolutionizing depression treatment by restoring brain chemistry and improving overall health.

'When you improve nutrition, you reduce violence': Psychologist Kimberley Wilson on working in Europe's largest women's prison

British psychologist Kimberley Wilson, shaped by her experience at Holloway Prison, discovered surprising links between diet, mental health, and behavior. These insights inspired her decade-long work and two books: "How to Build a Healthy Brain" and "Unprocessed: How the Food We Eat is Fueling our Mental Health Crisis."

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Botched SpaceX Engine Test Results in Spectacular Fireball

A Raptor 2 engine qualification test at SpaceX’s McGregor facility ended in a dramatic explosion. Despite the incident, which occurred Thursday at 4:15 p.m., it's unlikely to impact the upcoming fourth test launch of the Starship megarocket. Video footage showed the engine shutting down normally before a fire erupted, leading to a massive fireball.

China’s secretive spaceplane releases object into orbit

China's experimental reusable spacecraft released an unknown object into orbit during its third mission. Cataloged as 59884 by the U.S. Space Force, the object was released on May 24 after the spacecraft had been in orbit for 164 days since its launch on December 14, 2023. Jonathan McDowell from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center speculated it might be a subsatellite or ejected hardware.

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