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.
This insulin-releasing implant could allow diabetics to ditch needles
Imagine a device that lets people with diabetes use an app or remote control to give themselves a boost of insulin when they need it, without an injection. Researchers from ETH Zurich have developed a prototype device that can do just that, using electrical jolts to control gene expression in Read More...
AI gives this prosthetic leg the ability to adjust to different terrains
While it can be relatively easy for a person with lower limb amputation to walk on flat ground using a basic prosthetic leg, walking up stairs or across uneven terrain with a prosthetic can be incredibly challenging. That’s why scientists are turning to robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) Read More...
Missing being touched? This phone turns speech into physical sensations
One thing a phone or video call can’t make up for is the physical feeling of touch that comes with being close to someone. In an experimental attempt to bring physical sensations into phone calls, two students at the Royal College of Art in London have designed a pair of devices that translate Read More...
How math is helping find people lost at sea
Finding people lost at sea is an incredibly difficult task. The uncertain nature of tides and winds combined with dangerous exposure to elements means that the chances of rescuing people after six hours are very slim. Fortunately, a team of international researchers is using math to understand more Read More...
How drones rose up to the occasion during the coronavirus pandemic
It feels like drones were built for this moment. The coronavirus pandemic has forced everyone to spend the majority of their time indoors and, where possible, maintain a healthy distance from anyone that doesn’t live in the same building. Companies have introduced numerous measures to minimize Read More...
The enormous biofuel potential of Mexican prickly pear cacti
Nopal, also known as prickly pear cacti, are so common on the Mexican landscape that they are even featured on the country’s flag. The plants are used in salads, shakes, and even some tortilla recipes. Now, one innovative company is finding yet another purpose for the plant as a source of Read More...
Robot barista helps cafe in South Korea maintain social distancing
As South Korea recovers from the coronavirus, businesses in the country are getting creative to ensure that their customers are safe. Case in point: a café in Daejon, South Korea has hired a robot barista to take care of making and busing drinks around. Thanks to the robot, the café only has to Read More...
The world’s largest all-electric aircraft is set to fly today
A future of all-electric air travel seems to be on the horizon after it was announced that the world’s largest electric plane will take to the skies today. The Cessna Caravan, retrofitted with an electric engine, is expected to fly for 20-30 minutes over Washington state in the US. The plane Read More...
Researchers use drones to study active volcanoes up close
Active volcanoes are typically something to steer clear of, but for volcanologists, it’s their job to study these dangerous phenomena. Fortunately, they are now able to get up close and personal with active volcanoes without risking their own safety with the help of drones. Led by PhD Read More...
Increased bike sales in the UK show cycling is here to stay
More and more people are taking advantage of walking and biking to get out of the house and safely enjoy some fresh air and for many people, biking is here to stay. Bike shops across the UK can’t stock up as fast as they’re selling out and demand for repairs has skyrocketed. Bike shops Read More...