With more than 181.5 billion tons of wood produced globally each year, a new method could revolutionize how we build sustainably. By infusing red oak with ferrihydrite using a simple, low-cost process, researchers strengthened the wood at the cellular level without adding weight or altering flexibility – offering a durable, eco-friendly alternative to steel and concrete. The treated wood retains its natural behavior but gains internal durability – paving the way for greener alternatives in construction, furniture and flooring.

A pioneering study has demonstrated the remarkable potential of visual feedback technology to assist profoundly deaf individuals in developing oral speech. By translating speech sounds into visual patterns, the technology enables users to "see" their vocal efforts and adjust them to match reference models. Early trials with 72 participants have shown significant progress, with many learning up to 18 phonetic sounds within six months. This groundbreaking approach could revolutionize speech rehabilitation, offering a viable alternative to traditional methods like sign language and cochlear implants, particularly for those without early auditory interventions.

In a research paper, scientists from the Tsinghua University proposed a novel enhanced Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing technology, capable of printing composite magnetic structures with different material sin a single step. Furthermore, a soft robot with a hard magnetic material-superparamagnetic material composite was designed and printed.

Scientists aren’t comedians, but it turns out a joke or two can go a long way. That’s according to a new University of Georgia study that found when researchers use humor in their communication — particularly online — audiences are more likely to find them trustworthy and credible.