ScienceDaily: Matter & Energy News

After a stroke, patients may lose feeling in an arm or experience weakness and reduced movement that limits their ability to complete basic daily activities. Traditional rehabilitation therapy is very intensive, time-consuming and can be both expensive and inconvenient, especially for rural patients travelling long distances to in-person therapy appointments. That's why a team of researchers utilized a motion-sensor video game, Recovery Rapids, to allow patients recovering from a stroke to improve their motor skills and affected arm movements at home while checking in periodically with a therapist via telehealth.

There are a few superconducting material systems for electric transmission in various stages of development. In the meantime, researchers are conducting experiments to look for superconductivity in a room-temperature and atmospheric pressure environment.

Scientists are evaluating machine-learning models using transfer learning principles.

Scientists have visualized the two parts of an elusive particle -- the moiré exciton -- to reveal its structure and unique properties.

Researchers have developed a new genomic technology to simultaneously analyze the DNA, RNA and chromatin -- a combination of DNA and protein -- from a single cell. The method, which took five years to develop, is an important step forward for large collaborations where multiple teams are working simultaneously to classify thousands of new cell types. The new technology will help streamline analyses.

A collaborative study confirms a potential new switching mechanism for a proposed generation of ultra-low energy topological electronics. Based on novel, quantum nanoribbons terminating on 'zigzag' edges, such devices would switch from non-conducting to conducting state, whereby electrical current could flow along topological edge states without wasted dissipation of energy.

Multi-layered graphene is a promising carbon-based nanomaterial for a variety of next-generation technologies, but the relationships between its surface structures and properties are not entirely clear. Now, in a recent study, scientists analyze how surface structures like wrinkles and folded networks affect nanoscale friction in multi-layered graphene. Their findings could pave the way for graphene-based solid lubricants and micro/nano-scale mechanical devices.

A new research article features one major challenge overcome through a remarkably simple idea, opening the door to expanded use of PCMs for energy-efficient heating and cooling.

A team of researchers created shock-absorbing material that protects like a metal, but is lighter, stronger, reusable. The new foam-like material could be a game-changer for helmets, body armor, and automobile and aerospace parts.