A new optical modulator, more than 100 times smaller than previous designs, may allow optical routing between components on a single chip. The modulator converts a continuous laser into optical pulses that match an input signal. This could be used to connect multiple processor cores on a single chip, allowing them to communicate 100 times faster, and using 10 times less energy, than current multi-core systems that use wires. 
Microsoft was forced to pull its automated Santa offline when the artificial intelligence program controlling it decided that it wanted to discuss oral sex with child. The program was originally intended to allow children to discuss what they wanted for Christmas. 
A team of US researchers were able to treat mice with sickle-cell anemia using skin cells reprogrammed to act as stem cells. The reprogramming was achieved by using retroviruses to insert therapeutic genes into the cells. Much work still remains before they can be certain that the retrovirus procedure is safe for use on humans.
A research team at Sandia National Laboratories has developed a system that uses concentrated solar energy and water to convert carbon dioxide into liquid fuel, such as methanol. Solar energy is used to break the carbon-oxygen bonds, thus converting carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide and oxygen, as well as break water into its component parts. The carbon monoxide is then combined with hydrogen and oxygen to generate liquid fuel. The device is not expected to be market-ready for at least 15 years.
Giant jellyfish. No, this is not photoshopped. In fact, the Sea of Japan appears to have an infestation of this translucent giants that are heavy enough to damage fishing nets.
Yours for only $15,000(US) on eBay, this is a concept car is being sold by Universal Pictures. Just don't expect to go anywhere fast; this one is just a shell on casters. But it could look cool sitting in your driveway. 
This bike can do 0-300 mph in 30 seconds, with a top speed of 340 mph. It can be purchased with a gasoline or electric engine.
University of California researchers have discovered bacteria that produce semiconducting nanotubes. They hope to turn this into a cheaper and more energy-efficient way to produce nanoscale electrical devices.
For those of you who hate soggy cereal, fear not! The Eatmecrunchy bowl will save from a limp morning repast. For the rest of, there's coffee and bagels. ![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
