Friday, June 24, 2011

Can humans sense Earth's magnetism? Human retina protein can function as light-sensitive magnetic sensor

Can humans sense Earth's magnetism? Human retina protein can function as light-sensitive magnetic sensor: "New research shows that a protein expressed in the human retina can sense magnetic fields when implanted into Drosophila, reopening an area of sensory biology in humans for further exploration."

Brain-like computing a step closer to reality

Brain-like computing a step closer to reality: "The development of 'brain-like' computers has taken a major step forward. A new study involved the first ever demonstration of simultaneous information processing and storage using phase-change materials. This new technique could revolutionize computing by making computers faster and more energy-efficient, as well as making them more closely resemble biological systems."