Archive

Latest Articles

Scant Evidence of Power Laws Found in Real-World Networks

February 15, 2018

A new study challenges one of the most celebrated and controversial ideas in network science.

Smart Swarms Seek New Ways to Cooperate

February 14, 2018

New algorithms show how swarms of very simple robots can be made to work together as a group.

Neutron Lifetime Puzzle Deepens, but No Dark Matter Seen

February 13, 2018

Two methods of measuring the neutron's longevity give different answers, creating uncertainty in cosmological models. But no one has a clue what the problem is.

Evolution Saves Species From ‘Kill the Winner’ Disasters

February 12, 2018

Modelers find evidence that a combination of competition, predation and evolution will push ecosystems toward species diversity anywhere in the universe.

When Probability Meets Real Life

February 8, 2018

When faced with a difficult decision, should you go with your gut or carefully calculate the attendant risks?

The Argument Against Quantum Computers

February 7, 2018

The mathematician Gil Kalai believes that quantum computers can't possibly work, even in principle.

With Strategic Zaps to the Brain, Scientists Boost Memory

February 6, 2018

Stimulating part of the cortex as needed during learning tasks improves later recall. The finding reveals more about the brain's memory network and points toward possible therapies.

How Math (and Vaccines) Keep You Safe From the Flu

February 5, 2018

Simple math shows how widespread vaccination can disrupt the exponential spread of disease and prevent epidemics.

Quantum Algorithms Struggle Against Old Foe: Clever Computers

February 1, 2018

The quest for "quantum supremacy" – unambiguous proof that a quantum computer does something faster than an ordinary computer – has paradoxically led to a boom in quasi-quantum classical algorithms.

Get highlights of the most important news delivered to your email inbox