Soft robots need advanced sensing to safely interact with humans, but combining multiple sensors in soft materials is difficult. Researchers have developed a new vision-based sensing system called ProTac that allows a robot to switch between touch and proximity sensing using a soft skin that changes transparency. Integrated into robot arms, ProTac enables safer and more precise control. This innovation offers a scalable solution for improving human-robot interaction in complex, real-world environments.

Turbulence, the chaotic, irregular motion that causes the bumpiness we sometimes experience on an airplane, has intrigued scientists for centuries. Until recently, scientists believed that two different types of turbulence - inertial turbulence and elastic turbulence, occurred under separate conditions. Now, new research from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology challenges this long-standing assumption. 

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how the same health information affects the behavior of individuals differently. A recent study revealed cultural differences in how people respond to hypothetical COVID-19 infection information at the local level. The analysis also found differences in how individual subgroups react differently to pandemic information.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how the same health information affects the behavior of individuals differently. A recent study revealed cultural differences in how people respond to hypothetical COVID-19 infection information at the local level. The analysis also found differences in how individual subgroups react differently to pandemic information.

Batteries in electric vehicles wear out too quickly and this is slowing down the electrification of the transport sector. Researchers at Uppsala University have now developed an AI model that can provide a much more accurate picture of battery ageing. The model could lead to longer life and enhanced safety for electric vehicle batteries.