Seeing RNA at the nanoscale
Microscopy technique allows scientists to pinpoint RNA molecules in the brain.
The promise of fluorescent polymer gels
Color-changing materials could be used to detect structural failure in energy-related equipment.
Microscale marine interactions may shape critical carbon cycles
New research finds interactions between microorganisms and marine particles may have significant effects on oceanic carbon cycling.
Scientists observe first signs of healing in the Antarctic ozone layer
September ozone hole has shrunk by 4 million square kilometers since 2000.
Wireless, wearable toxic-gas detector
Inexpensive sensors could be worn by soldiers to detect hazardous chemical agents.
Music of the (data) spheres
A new MIT project taps into particle collisions to generate music and forge harmony between science and art.
New mid-infrared laser system could detect atmospheric chemicals
Laser pulses produce glowing plasma filaments in open air, could enable long-distance monitoring.
How the spleen filters blood
Computer model finds slits in the spleen impose a “physical fitness test” on red blood cells.
Tough new hydrogel hybrid doesn’t dry out
Water-based material could be used to make artificial skin, longer-lasting contact lenses.
Researchers trace Mercury’s origins to rare meteorite
Experiments show planet cooled dramatically in half a billion years.
Southern Ocean cooling in a warming world
Research suggests Antarctica and the Southern Ocean may be experiencing a period of cooling before warming takes over, thanks to the ozone hole.
Pinpointing vehicles with high precision under adverse weather conditions
MIT Lincoln Laboratory radar system achieves centimeter-level localization; could help driverless cars stay in lane when road markings are obscured.
Driverless cars: Who gets protected?
Study shows inconsistent public opinion on safety of driverless cars.
A strategy for “convergence” research to transform biomedicine
Report calls for more integration of physical, life sciences for needed advances in biomedical research.
Silk-based filtration material breaks barriers
Engineers find nanosized building blocks of silk hold the secrets to improved filtration membranes.