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.
Electric cars on Scottish island can now be powered entirely by the sea
After more than five years of powering local homes and businesses, tidal energy turbines in the Shetland Islands of Scotland are now charging electric vehicles. Car owners living on the island of Yell can now charge their vehicles using sea-generated energy harvested by Nova Innovation’s tidal Read More...
US announces measures to expand offshore wind energy production
We recently shared how the US is making progress towards its first utility-scale offshore wind farm in Massachusetts. Now, the country is ramping up wind power even further with the announcement of a New Wind Energy Area between Long Island and the New Jersey coast. The new project is part Read More...
High school student develops infection-detecting suture thread
In low and middle-income countries, 11 percent of surgical wounds develop an infection. The problem is particularly severe among women in some African nations where 20 percent of those who deliver via cesarean section experience infection at surgical sites. Realizing the scope of this problem, Read More...
New hydrogen fuel method also cleans up pharmaceutical waste
We recently wrote about how hydrogen power could be used to clean up commercial ammonia production. Now, another group of researchers is also exploring the symbiotic cleaning powers of this green energy source. A team of engineers has come up with a catalyst that could remove pharmaceutical toxins Read More...
Brain cancer vaccine complete successful phase 1 trials
Diffuse gliomas are a type of brain cancer that is especially difficult to treat, but 70 percent of low-grade gliomas have a single gene mutation that affects an isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) enzyme. This is what allowed German Cancer Research Center scientist Michael Platten to create a Read More...
Mussel-mounted motion sensors can help detect toxins in our water
Mussels are fascinating creatures that who's powerful role in our ecosystems is often overlooked. We’ve written previously about how mussels inspired highly effective surgical glue as well as how they can accurately gauge levels of pollution and identify contaminants in underwater Read More...
New blade design has the potential to reduce wind energy costs
As an increasing amount of evidence suggests, the world could be powered entirely by renewables a soon as 2050. But to make sure that happens, we need to continue to develop new, innovative designs that will streamline the transition to clean energy. That’s exactly what a team of scientists in Read More...
First all-electric Norwegian commuter aircraft to hit the skies by 2026
Earlier this year, we shared a story about Rolls-Royce's mission to develop 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel as part of its efforts to help transition the aviation industry towards a post-carbon future. Now, the second-largest manufacturer of aircraft engines wants to go a step further and Read More...
Sea cucumbers: The unsung heroes of coral reefs
When we think about the coral reef conservation efforts, hardly, if ever, does the humble sea cucumber cross our minds. However, it turns out that these slimy, faceless creatures—or rather their waste—play an important role in maintaining the health and biogeochemical cycles of the Read More...
This neighborhood food sharing app aims to cut down on waste
Food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and a misuse of valuable resources. While at-home strategies like meal planning and freezing greens can help your family cut down your food waste footprint, it’s not always easy to use up every last grocery item before they go Read More...