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Stringing together a picture of superconductors
MIT physicists use an offshoot of string theory to describe the strange behavior of superconducting materials.
Shape-shifting robots
Self-folding sheets of a plastic-like material point the way to robots that can assume any conceivable 3-D structure.
Financial impacts of ‘cap and trade’
Analysis shows that, contrary to some claims, proposed legislation to limit carbon emissions would not disadvantage those with lower incomes.
Explained: the Doppler effect
The same phenomenon behind changes in the pitch of a moving ambulance’s siren is helping astronomers locate and study distant planets.
Silicon can be made to melt in reverse
Material that shows melting while cooling might someday lead to applications in solar cells and other devices
Unraveling the Matrix
A new way of analyzing grids of numbers known as matrices could improve signal-processing applications and data-compression schemes.
Super-sizing a cancer drug minimizes side effects
Researchers design a new version of cisplatin that spares the kidneys, letting doctors use higher doses.
Proteins linked to longevity also linked to Alzheimer’s
Sirtuins appear to control production of the devastating protein fragments that form plaques in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
RNA offers a safer way to reprogram cells
New technique holds promise to revert cells to an immature state that can develop into any cell type.
Explained: Bandgap
Understanding how electrons get excited is crucial to creating solar cells and light-emitting diodes
‘A win-win across the board’
MIT Women’s League offers free language classes for Institute’s service workers.
3 Questions: Nicholas Roy on deploying drones in U.S. skies
MIT robotics expert discusses the logistical hurdles of regulating unmanned aircraft for civilian use.
Looks like a winner
MIT political scientists demonstrate how much candidate appearances affect election outcomes, globally.
Bursting a bubble?
A generally accepted theory explaining the frequent eruptions at Italy’s Stromboli volcano is called into question by new research.