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E-Skin: Touchscreens that Go Underwater and Contact Lenses in a VR World
Imagine a future where your smartphone works underwater or virtual reality is navigated with just a blink. This could soon be possible thanks to groundbreaking electronic skins, or e-skins, developed by researchers at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR). These innovative e-skins can detect and track magnetic fields using a single global sensor, as reported in Nature Communications. Originally designed for robotics, e-skins mimic real skin properties and can provide robots with a sense of touch or replace lost human senses. However, traditional e-skins have been limited by bulky electronics and large batteries. "Previous technologies have used numerous individual sensors and transistors to localize sources of a magnetic field," said Denys Makarov from HZDR. "Our idea was to develop a more energy-efficient system that is more akin to our soft human skin." The research team replaced rigid substrates with an ultra-thin, flexible membrane that is transparent and breathable. This allows the artificial skin to accommodate fewer electronic components while featuring a magnetosensitive layer that acts as a global sensor surface. "Such large-area magnetosensitive smart skins are a novelty," said Pavlo Makushko, PhD student at HZDR. The technology uses tomography to reconstruct signal positions from multiple images—a method previously deemed too insensitive for conventional materials. These new e-skins offer exciting applications like recognizing digital patterns written by magnetic styluses or enabling touchless interactions in virtual reality. They also promise enhanced functionality for robotic systems in complex environments. As this technology advances, it opens up unique communication channels between humans and machines through magnetoreception—ushering in an era of seamless interaction across diverse settings.
Score (97)
Hikers Just Stumbled Upon This Hidden Treasure Worth $340K
Two hikers in the Czech Republic stumbled upon a remarkable discovery while exploring the edge of an overgrown forest. The Museum of East Bohemia announced that the pair uncovered a treasure trove valued at over $340,000, consisting of gold coins, jewelry, and tobacco bags. The museum detailed that the treasure was found in two separate containers within a man-made stone wall. Initially, the hikers noticed an aluminum jar containing 598 gold coins wrapped in black fabric. Local media reported this find to be worth approximately 7.5 million Czech crowns, or about $341,000. Nearby, they discovered another container holding 16 tobacco bags, 10 bracelets, a fine wire mesh bag, a comb, a powder coat and a chain with a key—all made from yellow metal. These items were stored in a metal box. According to museum experts, the coins date back to between 1808 and the early 19th century and appear to have been buried for over a hundred years. They include currency from France, Belgium, the Ottoman Empire and former Austria-Hungary. Small marks suggest they were minted for use in former Yugoslavia. Miroslav Novák, head of the museum's archaeological department, described this finding as unique but noted that burying treasures during uncertain times has been common since prehistoric eras. "Often," he said, "the pieces were buried with the intention of returning later for it."
Score (96)
Why These Moms are Smashing Stress Away With Free "Rage Room" Sessions
Forget the usual Mother’s Day gifts. This year, moms in eight U.S. cities can unleash their stress in rage rooms, thanks to a unique initiative by Calm, a mental health company known for its guided meditations. Blake Beers, Calm's VP of Brand, explained the motivation behind the Not Calm Moms campaign: “At Calm, we know moms aren’t calm. They’re light on sleep, heavy on the mental load and always on.” The initiative offers free rage room experiences in New York City, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Nashville and Seattle. Moms can fill out a form to receive gift certificates for themselves and friends. Calm emphasizes that this effort is rooted in science. Jennifer Wallace, journalist and Calm partner said: “Research shows that when mothers feel seen... they become the steady presence their children need.” The campaign aims to challenge the narrative that mothers must handle everything alone. Participants will have opportunities to smash items and scream along with loud music for cathartic release. “Sometimes release looks like a sledgehammer,” Calm stated. Comedian Ilana Glazer joined the first event in New York City. She shared her experience: “Motherhood cracked me open... What keeps me grounded isn’t some perfect routine; it’s people who remind me I don’t have to do it all alone.” California Surgeon General Dr. Diana E. Ramos highlighted the importance of support: “Every mom deserves support... Let’s break the stigma and uplift each other.”
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Score (98)
This Café Is Run by Staff Who Have Down Syndrome—And It’s Changing Lives
Tucked inside a quiet corner of Al Ghurair Centre in Deira is a small café doing something quietly extraordinary. At Cafe 21, the staff behind the counter aren’t just serving coffee—they’re breaking down barriers. The café is run by a team of employees who have Down Syndrome, many of whom are first-time workers. With support from the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, they’ve been trained as baristas and front-of-house staff, learning not just how to make great coffee, but how to welcome guests with pride and purpose. It’s the kind of place where the warmth goes beyond what’s in your cup. Customers are often greeted by name, offered smiles, and made to feel like regulars—even if it’s their first visit. The menu is simple: pastries, coffee and cakes, made with care. But what really stands out is the atmosphere—one that reminds visitors what inclusion can look like in everyday life. Cafe 21 isn’t just a place to grab a latte. It’s a reminder that opportunity, when given freely, can turn into something beautiful.
Score (98)
Bringing Hope for a Species: Meet The Newest Giraffe Calf at the San Diego Zoo
A new addition to the Masai giraffe herd at San Diego Zoo Safari Park is bringing hope for the endangered species. A male calf was born on April 23, joining his mother, Mara, and father, Gowon. While he hasn't been named yet, the young giraffe is already forming a strong bond with his parents. This birth is a positive development for Masai giraffes, which are currently listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Endangered Species. Over the past 35 years, their population in the wild has plummeted by 30 percent, primarily due to habitat loss and challenges in human-wildlife coexistence. The arrival of this calf not only boosts the numbers but also serves as a reminder of ongoing conservation efforts needed to protect these majestic creatures. The zoo says their commitment to wildlife preservation plays a crucial role in ensuring that future generations can witness these gentle giants.
Score (97)
This Surgeon Just Made History With The First Ever Beating-Heart Transplant
In a groundbreaking medical achievement, surgeons at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) have successfully performed a heart transplant where the donor organ never stopped beating. This innovative procedure eliminates the traditional pause in blood flow, known as ischemic time, significantly reducing potential damage to the heart muscle and enhancing the likelihood of a successful transplant. By maintaining continuous oxygenated blood flow throughout the process, NTUH has set a new standard in cardiac surgery that could improve patient outcomes globally. Traditional heart transplants typically involve cold storage, which halts blood flow to the organ. Even brief periods without oxygen can harm heart tissue, increasing risks of rejection or complications post-surgery. NTUH's method employs a custom organ care system that functions like a portable life-support machine, delivering oxygenated blood from donor to recipient without interruption. Inspired by ECMO life support technology, this system uses pumps, oxygenators and reservoirs to keep the heart beating outside the body. During their first surgery using this technique, NTUH transported a donor heart between operating rooms while it remained beating. The recipient was a 49-year-old woman with dilated cardiomyopathy who recovered smoothly with low cardiac enzyme levels, an indicator of healthy heart muscle. While Stanford University pioneered "beating-heart" transplants in 2023 with brief ischemic periods during transfer, NTUH’s approach ensures zero ischemic time. "The hearts were still beating before procurement, continued beating after procurement and never stopped," said Chen Yih-shurng, head of NTUH’s organ transplant team. With two successful transplants completed, NTUH plans to refine its system and expand access. Their findings could redefine global transplant protocols and offer hope for shorter wait lists and healthier recoveries as demand for donor hearts continues to outpace supply.
Score (97)
The World's Shortest Festival That Only Rises When the Tide Falls
Picture a festival that emerges from the sea, drawing hundreds to a sandbar in the Isles of Scilly. The Low Tide Event, held when the tide recedes to reveal this unique venue, brought 90 minutes of joy to attendees. Tom Matthews, co-organizer, shared with BBC Radio Cornwall: "If you can imagine a few hundred people gathering in the middle of the sea. We do have a klaxon because we have to say at some point, 'You really do need to go now.'" The celebration kicked off around 11:40 BST with picnic benches and bars on tractor beds. Food was served straight from boats as high tide approached. Matthews described it as a "huge success," noting the diverse age range among participants—from an 87-year-old enjoying time with her granddaughter to a mom with her six-month-old baby. "It's an event that really brings the islands together," Matthews said. "We have stalls from both sides of the Tresco and Bryher channel, and people travel from across Scilly, Cornwall and beyond." The festival relies on "super low tides" occurring twice yearly between these islands, about 200 meters apart. Matthews noted its dependence on air pressure for timing: "It's probably the only festival that's dependent on air pressure." Since its inception in 2015, this pop-up festival has become integral to local culture. "Then we found ourselves in the position that we couldn't stop if we wanted to because people plan their holidays around it now," he added.
Score (97)
Robots, Rovers, and Dreams: How NASA is Inspiring the Next Generation
What does the future of space exploration look like? At the 2025 FIRST Robotics World Championship in Houston, NASA offered a glimpse into that future with lunar rovers, robotic arms and discussions on shaping the next era of discovery. NASA engaged with more than 55,000 students and 75,000 parents and mentors from the Artemis Generation. Through interactive exhibits and discussions, participants explored NASA’s robotic technologies, learned about STEM career paths and internships, and gained insight into NASA’s vision for the future. Many students expressed interest in internships and dreams of contributing to NASA’s missions. Multiple NASA centers participated in the event, including Johnson Space Center, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Kennedy Space Center and more, each showcasing their own technologies. Key innovations included a Space Exploration Vehicle prototype for planetary surface exploration, Mars Perseverance Rover mission details and an In-Situ Resource Utilization Pilot Excavator designed to support long-term exploration. “These demonstrations help students see themselves in NASA’s mission,” said Andrew Knotts from Johnson Public Affairs. “They can picture their future as part of the team shaping how we live and work in space.” Since relocating to Houston in 2017, NASA has mentored over 250 robotics teams annually. This year continued that tradition while celebrating science's fusion with engineering.
Score (97)
Cool Like An Elephant: Eco-Friendly Tiles Promise Relief From Summer Heat
A team of researchers from Nanyang Technological University Singapore and biomimicry design firm bioSEA have found an innovative way to keep cool by taking inspiration from elephants. These majestic creatures, known for thriving in hot climates, have skin that retains water and cools through evaporation. Dr. Anuj Jain, founding director of bioSEA, explained the concept: “Elephants evolved to develop a skin that is heavily wrinkled, which increases water retention and cools the animal by evaporation.” Inspired by this natural cooling mechanism, the researchers created hexagonal wall tiles using mycelium—a network of fungi roots—and organic waste. The tiles mimic elephant skin with their bumpy texture, enhancing their cooling efficiency. Laboratory tests showed these tiles cooled 25 percent more effectively than flat mycelium tiles. The optimal setup involves adhering the flat side to a building's facade while exposing the textured surface to heat. Associate Professor Hortense Le Ferrand highlighted the environmental benefits: “Mycelium-bound composite is a biodegradable material that is highly porous, which makes it a good insulator.” The study used oyster mushroom mycelium mixed with bamboo shavings and oats to form these eco-friendly tiles. While scaling up production poses challenges due to growth time, Le Ferrand remains optimistic about its potential impact on sustainable construction. “We’ve developed a promising eco-friendly alternative that transforms waste into a valuable resource,” she said. The team is now working with startup Mykílio to integrate these tiles into real-world applications. They aim for their invention to provide efficient cooling solutions without harming the environment.
Score (96)
Luka Dončić Steps Up: Helps Restore Kobe And Gianna Mural With $5K Donation
A mural honoring Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna is set to be restored, thanks to a generous donation from the team's newest star, Luka Dončić. The artwork, located at 14th and Main streets in downtown Los Angeles, was vandalized with black and white paint. It originally depicted Bryant lovingly kissing his daughter on the cheek as she held a basketball. Dončić stepped up with a $5,000 contribution to the restoration effort. His name appeared on the GoFundMe donations list Tuesday, confirmed by his foundation. "Kobe is LA," Dončić expressed in a statement. "He and Gigi mean so much to this city, to the Lakers organization, and to me personally. I’m happy to do anything to help make sure he and his daughter are honored." The fundraiser had collected over $5,400 by midday, showing strong community support for restoring the tribute to the Hall of Fame player who won five NBA championships with the Lakers. A separate mural in Beverly Grove also features both Dončić and Bryant. This piece captures their first meeting during a Dallas Mavericks game in Los Angeles back in 2019. The tragic helicopter crash that claimed nine lives, including Kobe and Gianna's, on January 26, 2020, remains fresh in the memory of many Angelenos. As of now, police have not identified any suspects responsible for defacing the mural. With efforts underway to restore this cherished piece of art, it’s clear that Kobe’s legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness across Los Angeles.
Score (98)
Tiny Dots, Big Impact: The Solar Breakthrough That Could Change Energy Forever
Solar power is rapidly advancing as a leading renewable energy source, with new research focusing on optimizing its efficiency. Photovoltaic cells made from perovskites and organic materials are gaining traction due to their lightweight nature, low cost, and competitive power conversion efficiencies compared to traditional silicon designs. Researchers at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University have developed a method to enhance perovskite/organic tandem solar cell designs by incorporating acidic magnesium-doped tin oxide quantum dots. This innovation addresses stability issues in wide-bandgap perovskites, which can absorb higher-energy light particles but face challenges such as unregulated crystallization and defect traps. "Wide-bandgap perovskites in monolithic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells face challenges such as unregulated crystallization, severe defect traps, poor energetic alignment and undesirable phase transitions," the researchers stated. The addition of quantum dots helps modulate the bottom interface contact in these solar cells, improving both stability and efficiency. "This design balances physical, chemical, structural and energetic properties," wrote the researchers. Their work achieved an efficiency of 25.9 percent (certified at 25.1 percent) and demonstrated improved stability under various conditions. This advancement could facilitate the adoption of perovskite/organic tandem solar cells in future global solar arrays. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar photovoltaics are on track with its Net Zero Emissions by 2050 scenario and accounted for 70 percent of growth in the renewable sector in 2023. As one of the fastest-growing green technologies, solar power's electricity generation capacity is expected to surpass hydropower by 2029. Increasing reliance on cleaner solutions like solar power can lead to cleaner air, lower energy costs, and greater accessibility to electricity worldwide.