Science Roundup: From Nuclear Clocks to Ancient Impacts
A recent collection of scientific reports details progress in physics, neuroscience, paleontology, and botany. Findings include the demonstration of prototype nuclear clocks, a documented human walking bias, a long-term brain-computer interface for communication, and the identification of a new ancient impact structure.
Physics & Metrology
Nuclear Clock Prototypes
Two independent teams, one in Europe and one in China, have constructed the first working clocks powered by energy shifts in atomic nuclei. These clocks utilize thorium-229 atoms.
While they do not currently outperform existing atomic clocks in precision, their operation demonstrates the feasibility of the technology. Researchers suggest nuclear clocks could eventually be less sensitive to electromagnetic interference and may be useful for investigating dark matter and potential variations in fundamental constants.
"Their operation demonstrates the feasibility of the technology."
Human Behavior & Neuroscience
Walking Bias
Experiments conducted in Spain and Japan indicate that humans demonstrate a statistically significant but modest preference for turning counterclockwise when walking. The cause of this bias remains uncertain. Researchers note the finding could inform the design of public spaces and crowd management strategies.
ALS Communication Implant
A brain-computer interface (BCI) has enabled an individual with advanced ALS, identified as Casey Harrell, to communicate. The system decodes brain activity during attempted speech and vocalizes the text through a digital voice designed to resemble the user's own.
According to reports, over a period of nearly two years, the device allowed Mr. Harrell to generate more than 183,000 sentences, equating to nearly two million words.
Autism Subtypes
A study involving both human subjects and mice has identified two distinct brain-based subtypes of autism. One subtype is associated with reduced brain connectivity and genes related to communication functions. The other is linked to increased connectivity and genes associated with immune system function. The findings may contribute to the development of more personalized treatment or intervention strategies.
Earth & Planetary Science
Ancient Impact Structure in Australia
Geologists in Western Australia have discovered evidence of a meteorite impact buried beneath the desert. The structure, temporarily named Ora Banda, formed within Archaean greenstone. It is the second confirmed impact structure of this specific type, and its discovery may assist in identifying other ancient collisions.
Biology & Bio-inspired Design
Venus Flytrap Closure Mechanism
Scientists have identified that the rapid closure of the Venus flytrap is caused by a sudden softening of cell walls in the plant's outer skin. This biological mechanism may inspire the development of future soft bioinspired devices and robotics.