A study finds that COVID-19 proteins left in the brain may lower cortisol levels, leading to heightened inflammation and an exaggerated response to stressors. This discovery could explain the persistent neurological symptoms seen in Long COVID patients. Researchers suggest that managing stressors and investigating viral reservoirs might help alleviate these symptoms.
Digital Swiping Increases Boredom, Reduces Video Enjoyment
Swiping through online videos to alleviate boredom may actually make people more bored and less satisfied with the content, according to new research. The study found that switching between short video snippets or fast-forwarding through them leaves viewers feeling less engaged and more restless. Participants reported greater satisfaction and meaningful engagement when they watched a […]
Why Are We Drawn to Events Focused on Death and Disaster?
Researchers have developed a new framework to understand why people are fascinated by events centered around themes of death, disaster, and suffering. These “dark events” include everything from historical commemorations to cultural festivals and horror experiences. The study highlights six key concepts that shape our attraction to these events, such as commercialization, public engagement, and […]
Prosthetic Limb Offers Natural Gait via Neural Control
A new neuroprosthetic interface allows prosthetic limbs to be controlled by the body’s nervous system, resulting in a natural walking gait. The surgery reconnects muscles, providing proprioceptive feedback, enabling users to walk faster and navigate obstacles more effectively.
AI-Powered Robot Navigates Home Using Language
esearchers have developed an AI system that guides robots using language-based instructions, improving navigation tasks without relying on extensive visual data. This method converts visual observations into text captions, allowing a language model to direct the robot’s movements. While not outperforming vision-based systems, it excels in data-limited scenarios and combines well with visual inputs for […]
AI-Trained Exoskeletons Improve Movement and Save Energy
A new study details how AI and computer simulations train robotic exoskeletons to help users conserve energy while walking, running, and climbing stairs. This method eliminates the need for lengthy human-involved experiments and can be applied to various assistive devices.
Tactile Emoticons Boost Social Media Communication
Incorporating tactile emoticons into social media interactions enhances feelings of support and approval. Participants using a mock platform preferred receiving feedback through both visual and tactile cues over visual-only feedback. Tactile feedback, such as a stroke on the forearm, conveyed additional emotional context. The findings suggest touch can improve digital communication, informing future technology developments.
Robot System Reduces Eye Injections for AMD Patients
Researchers successfully used a custom-built robot to treat wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This minimally invasive treatment reduces the need for frequent eye injections. The landmark study found that robotic radiotherapy significantly decreases the number of injections needed, potentially saving millions annually. The new method offers precise targeting of radiation to the eye, improving patient […]
Third Thumb: Public Quickly Adapts to Controllable Extra Thumb
Researchers found that people easily learned to use a controllable, prosthetic “Third Thumb” for manipulating objects. The device, tested on a diverse group, enhances motor capabilities and shows promise for both productivity and aiding those with disabilities. The study highlights the importance of inclusive design in developing new technologies.
Mind-Blowing Head Transplant System with Robotic Surgeons and AI Precision
BrainBridge, a neuroscience and biomedical engineering start-up, has unveiled a revolutionary concept for a robotic head transplant system. This ambitious project aims to offer a new lease on life for patients suffering from terminal illnesses and neurodegenerative diseases by transferring their heads onto healthy donor bodies.