We’re closer to a super-secure quantum Internet than you might think
Quantum computing has been making headlines more and more lately as scientists zero-in on a way to realize its potential. But what is quantum computing, and why is it so desirable? To understand this, it helps to first think about the shortcomings of the computers and the Internet we currently Read More...
The Mapuche people teach kids to overcome fear from a young age
Western assumptions about the emotional capabilities of children might not do them credit, a new study with the indigenous Mapuche people of southern Chile suggests. For the study, researchers conducted a survey of 271 parents and teachers in southern Chile. Out of the total number of Read More...
New consensus shows US solar jobs increased 167% over the past decade
Over the past decade, solar energy has gone from a niche product to a mainstream source of energy—and nothing depicts that like the meteoric rise in US jobs in the solar industry. According to The Solar Foundation, the number of US solar jobs has risen 167 percent since 2010, with a total of Read More...
Newly discovered bacteria breaks down toxic soil pollutants
All animals, including humans, host a collection of friendly bacteria that help us digest food and fight infection. Such kinds of friendly microbes are also found in soil to help plants grow, cope with stress, and fight off pests. These incredible microscopic beings are also essential to Read More...
Why safe streets are a powerful tool for combatting climate change
It’s not hard to understand why many parents don’t let their kids walk and bike to school in Los Angeles where streets are designed for the fast movement of cars. In LA, crashes are the leading cause of death for kids aged 4 to 15. To keep kids safe, parents revert to cars—even if the trip is Read More...
This electric vehicle battery achieves a longer range with shorter charging times
A big priority for the electric vehicle industry is improving battery technology to boost the range of these cars. A couple of months ago we shared a story about a start-up that is creating longer-range batteries without environmentally-taxing precious metals. Now, the Korea Institute of Science Read More...
Tips for unplugging from devices for a better night’s sleep
Are you having trouble sleeping? Your electronics may be to blame. Blue light from electronic screens can inhibit deep, restful sleep. Not only does the light itself disrupt sleep patterns, but emails, to-do lists, and notifications on devices can also distract your mind and keep you awake. Read More...
Concrete of the future may be recyclable and even biodegradable
Society has been using concrete to build infrastructure and homes for about 100 years and, throughout its long history, the process has pretty much stayed the same. But it seems concrete is set to get a makeover as the industry attempts to go greener. A few weeks ago we shared how researchers were Read More...
Say what?! A 3-year-old in Texas found a candy-pink grasshopper
Did you know grasshoppers can be bright pink? Neither did we—until this past weekend when an eye-catching story was published by an NBC affiliate in Texas. Apparently, a three-year-old discovered a bubble-gum pink grasshopper while exploring his garden in Austin, which prompted his mother to snap Read More...
This device might help stroke survivors regain their motor function
Those who survive a stroke can have their motor function severely impaired, drastically reducing quality of life for those survivors. The good news, however, is that scientists have created a device that might help stroke survivors regain their motor function after the fact. At the American Read More...