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.
The future of wind turbine towers may be made of wood
While wind turbines only cost 11 grams of carbon per kilowatt-hour (compared to the combustion of natural gas at 450 grams), there is always room for improvement. Opponents of wind energy have criticized the carbon footprint of the steel required to build wind towers and turbines. Unknowingly, they Read More...
Keto diets may help kidney disease
We recently wrote a piece on how keto diets can reduce colorectal cancer. Ketosis is a metabolic state brought on by these diets and also fasting. Keto diets are characterized as being high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and high in fats. This has made it a popular tool for losing weight, and Read More...
Edible QR code spots fake whiskey and medicine
There is an elaborate tradition and art that goes into making certain scotches. The recipes of some highland single malts have been passed down through families for generations, and connoisseurs can pay a lot for these unique, peaty spirits. Not surprisingly, counterfeiters are looking to cash Read More...
This smart pillow could help you get a better night's sleep
Sleep is essential for human health, as much as food and water. However, in our intensely busy culture, many people fail to get enough. Not getting at least seven hours each night can lead to an increased risk of several psychological and physical illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, Read More...
This solar-coated high-rise is self-sustaining
A high-rise office building in Melbourne, Australia, boasts a solar facade made up of 1,182 solar panels which, together with additional rooftop solar, sustain the building with renewable power. Helping others by helping itself “The building is designed to be self-sustainable,” says Pete Read More...
Scientists create recyclable artificial muscle fibers
Imitating the human body artificially has been a growing field of research. This technology has applications across several fields including prosthetic limbs, robotics, organ transplants, and more. The only problem is the highly complex processes and the expensive and rare materials it takes to put Read More...
Uber delivers emergency food and supplies in Ukraine
Some aid trucks that provide food and emergency services in Ukraine have trouble reaching those in need because urban structural damage blocks the way. Ongoing violence also makes it difficult. To address this, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) is working with the tech firm Uber to get Read More...
Check out this smart dissolving pacemaker
Last year we wrote an article about a wireless pacemaker developed by a team from Northwestern University. The innovative device is made of materials that can undergo chemical reactions to dissolve in the body once it isn’t needed anymore, reducing the risk and damage that complicated open-heart Read More...
This app can reduce social media overuse
The time we spend on our phones can run easily from an easygoing couple of minutes to a dissociative hour of doom-scrolling where we finally look around and say, “How did I kill a whole hour?” These “dissociative states” are common. We get into them when we’re so focused on a task or Read More...
Baltimore aims to expand public internet access with city-owned network
State and local governments are coming to appreciate the internet for what it is: an essential utility. With much of the workforce working from home and children going to school online, reliable internet is vital for workers in all sectors of the economy. In the wake of successful programs Read More...