A new neural interface lets people type with their mind, and a crafting journey into materials science.In this episode:00:45 A brain interface to type out thoughtsResearchers have developed a brain-computer interface that is able to read brain signals from people thinking about handwriting, and translate them into on-screen text. The team hope this technology could be used to help people with paralysis to communicate quicker than before.Research Article: Willett et al.News and Views: Neural interface translates thoughts into typeVideo: The BCI handwriting system in action07:37 Research HighlightsLight-sensitive cells help headless worms ‘see’ with their bodies, and a wearable device that monitors itchiness.Research Highlight: How headless worms see the light to steerResearch Highlight: How itchy are you? A new device knows precisely10:26 The science of everyday materialsMaterials scientist Anna Ploszajski joins us to talk about her new book Handmade, which details how her journey into craft helped shape her materials research.Book review: From spoons to semiconductors — we are what we make18:26 Briefing ChatWe discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, the genomes of some viruses that contain a very unusual DNA nucleobase, and the smouldering nuclear reactions that remain in the wreckage of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.Nature: Weird viral DNA spills secrets to biologistsScience: ‘It’s like the embers in a barbecue pit.’ Nuclear reactions are smoldering again at Chernobyl
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