International team observes innermost structure of quasar jet
New observations show the deepest parts of the quasar's plasma jet in a project led by MIT Haystack Observatory.
Alzheimer’s risk gene undermines insulation of brain’s “wiring”
In people carrying APOE4, a key brain cell mismanages cholesterol needed to insulate neurons properly — another sign APOE4 contributes to disease by disrupting brain lipids.
Flocks of assembler robots show potential for making larger structures
Researchers make progress toward groups of robots that could build almost anything, including buildings, vehicles, and even bigger robots.
Scientists unveil the functional landscape of essential genes
Researchers harness new pooled, image-based screening method to probe the functions of over 5,000 essential genes in human cells.
Machinery of the state
Associate Professor Mai Hassan documents bureaucratic systems in Eastern Africa set up for coercion, as well as roadblocks to democratic government.
Study: Automation drives income inequality
New data suggest most of the growth in the wage gap since 1980 comes from automation displacing less-educated workers.
How “2D” materials expand
A new technique that accurately measures how atom-thin materials expand when heated could help engineers develop faster, more powerful electronic devices.
Are Covid-19 “comas” signs of a protective hibernation state?
Scientists hypothesize that, as in a hibernating turtle, the brain under sedation and deprived of oxygen may assume a protective state.
Study: Zebrafish are smarter than we thought
Researchers have discovered that the brains of these simple fish can create three-dimensional maps of their surroundings.
Engineers solve a mystery on the path to smaller, lighter batteries
Branchlike metallic filaments can sap the power of solid-state lithium batteries. A new study explains how they form and how to divert them.
Uncovering the rich connections between South Asia and MIT
Showcased in a new exhibit, student research explores the long history of South Asians at the Institute.
Earth can regulate its own temperature over millennia, new study finds
Scientists have confirmed that a “stabilizing feedback” on 100,000-year timescales keeps global temperatures in check.
Empowering social media users to assess content helps fight misinformation
An experimental platform that puts moderation in the hands of its users shows that people do evaluate posts effectively and share their assessments with others.
Keeping indoor humidity levels at a “sweet spot” may reduce spread of Covid-19
A new study links very dry and very humid indoor environments with worse Covid-19 outcomes.
Solving brain dynamics gives rise to flexible machine-learning models
MIT CSAIL researchers solve a differential equation behind the interaction of two neurons through synapses to unlock a new type of speedy and efficient AI algorithm.