Understanding how a completely different neural structure achieves the same function as the human brain opens up possibilities for designing new types of AI systems.
Bradley van Paridon
Brad completed a Ph.D. where he studied invasive parasites and parasites that manipulate their hosts. After graduating, he began freelance science writing and podcasting. His written and audio stories have appeared in Chemistry World, Hakai, Scientific American, and Undark.
Finally, an anti-fizzing paper straw that doesn’t get soggy
Soggy, limp paper straws have for too long been the only option to minimize plastic waste, but a new, improved design will remedy this.
How do nanoplastics affect crop yield and nutrition?
From soil to the seed, nanoplastics were shown to accumulate in rice and peanuts with potential affects on crop yield and nutrition.
How wildfires are pushing mountain lions toward riskier behavior
What lessons can a threatened mountain lion population living within the bounds of Los Angeles teach about the future of conservation?
Leveraging the nervous system to manage pain
Implantable and completely dissolvable electrical devices may end the dominance of opioids in managing pain.
Closing in on an HIV vaccine using rare antibodies
A rare type of antibody found in some individuals could help develop an HIV vaccine to target highly diverse viral strains.
Old brains, new neurons
An RNA sequencing technique provides evidence for adult neurogenesis, the production of new neurons in the brain.
Do masks really hinder emotional recognition?
We need not be so concerned, say experts, as humans use more than just facial cues to read emotion.
Machine learning by intuition
As machine learning gets better at deciphering our brain activity, the possible uses and misuses of this technology come into focus.
The ongoing search for life on Venus
While a new model finds life is not responsible for Venus’ odd atmospheric chemistry, the aerial biosphere hypothesis is important in the search for life on other worlds.