Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
These lightweight drones are made from old pineapple leaves
Farmers in Malaysia often burn or throw away pineapple leaves after the fruit has been harvested for the season. Researchers from Putra University have found an ingenious new use for these leaves by repurposing them into a lightweight, sustainable drone. Led by Professor Mohamed Thariq Hameed Read More...
EVs greatly outsold gas-powered cars in Norway last year
Only when people start purchasing more electric vehicles than gas-powered ones can we truly say that the EV revolution is underway. Although the US still has a long way to go until that point is reached, there is one country where more than half of all cars sold are electric: Norway. According to Read More...
Researchers solve key desalination efficiency mystery
Desalination is the process of removing salt and other chemicals from water to make it potable. It holds immense promise for providing clean water in the future as we face dwindling fresh water supplies for a growing population. For years, inconsistent efficiency in desalination baffled Read More...
Do you have unused frequent flier miles? Here's where to donate them
If you’re looking for more ways to give back this year, your frequent flier miles could be a surprisingly good place to start. If your miles are piling up without this year’s usual travel, you can donate them to someone in need with just the click of a button. Here are some of the ways to put Read More...
New 3D printing technique is more efficient and less wasteful
Traditional 3D printing begins at the bottom of an object and steadily adds layers, but a team of researchers from Penn State has come up with an innovative new way to print objects that is more efficient and faster than previous methods. Called five-axis additive 3D-printing, the new method Read More...
Massachusetts to require all car sales to be electric by 2035
Back in September, we shared a story about California’s commendable decision to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Now, following in the footsteps of the Golden State, Massachusetts says it will do the same in a bid to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The move is part of the Read More...
Modified psychedelic drug could offer mental health relief without the side effects
Research into the use of psychedelic drugs for long term anxiety, depression, and PTSD relief is one of the fastest-growing fields in mental health research. Now, researchers at the University of California, Davis, are seeing if they can narrow down these benefits into more widely available Read More...
Scientists use 3D printer to create fungus-based soundproofing material
When it comes to producing acoustic insulation, the materials typically used are synthetic or mineral-based materials. While these materials are effective, they are not easily recyclable and the production process is usually quite energy-intensive. In search of a greener alternative, Read More...
New AI microscope could improve tumor removal accuracy
When it comes to tumor removal, the main goal is to remove all cancerous cells from the body, but the only way to know if this was successful is to look at the tumor under a microscope after surgery. Fortunately, there may soon be a more effective technique to ensure patients are cancer cell-free Read More...
Medical gun that fires off ‘skin substitute’ is now treating patients
In July of 2019, we shared exciting news out of Israel when a startup invented a mechanical contraption shaped like a toy gun that spins out a ‘skin substitute’ to cover and heal wounds. Today, we’re happy to share that the device has moved beyond the prototype phase, with doctors across Read More...