Astronomers detect ancient lonely quasars with murky origins
The quasars appear to have few cosmic neighbors, raising questions about how they first emerged more than 13 billion years ago.
Combining next-token prediction and video diffusion in computer vision and robotics
A new method can train a neural network to sort corrupted data while anticipating next steps. It can make flexible plans for robots, generate high-quality video, and help AI agents navigate digital environments.
Model reveals why debunking election misinformation often doesn’t work
The new study also identifies factors that can make these efforts more successful.
MIT team takes a major step toward fully 3D-printed active electronics
By fabricating semiconductor-free logic gates, which can be used to perform computation, researchers hope to streamline the manufacture of electronics.
A new method makes high-resolution imaging more accessible
Labs that can’t afford expensive super-resolution microscopes could use a new expansion technique to image nanoscale structures inside cells.
The way sensory prediction changes under anesthesia tells us how conscious cognition works
A new study adds evidence that consciousness requires communication between sensory and cognitive regions of the brain’s cortex.
New 3D printing technique creates unique objects quickly and with less waste
By using a 3D printer like an iron, researchers can precisely control the color, shade, and texture of fabricated objects, using only one material.
The changing geography of “energy poverty”
Study of the U.S. shows homes in the South and Southwest could use more aid for energy costs, due to a growing need for air conditioning in a warming climate.
Artificial intelligence meets “blisk” in new DARPA-funded collaboration
Collaborative multi-university team will pursue new AI-enhanced design tools and high-throughput testing methods for next-generation turbomachinery.
Study finds mercury pollution from human activities is declining
Models show that an unexpected reduction in human-driven emissions led to a 10 percent decline in atmospheric mercury concentrations.
Bubble findings could unlock better electrode and electrolyzer designs
A new study of bubbles on electrode surfaces could help improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes that produce fuels, chemicals, and materials.
Solar-powered desalination system requires no extra batteries
Because it doesn’t need expensive energy storage for times without sunshine, the technology could provide communities with drinking water at low costs.
Cancer biologists discover a new mechanism for an old drug
Study reveals the drug, 5-fluorouracil, acts differently in different types of cancer — a finding that could help researchers design better drug combinations.
How AI is improving simulations with smarter sampling techniques
MIT CSAIL researchers created an AI-powered method for low-discrepancy sampling, which uniformly distributes data points to boost simulation accuracy.
AI simulation gives people a glimpse of their potential future self
By enabling users to chat with an older version of themselves, Future You is aimed at reducing anxiety and guiding young people to make better choices.