Science News for October 28, 2023

Robot space maintenance based on human arm dynamics

Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology propose a human-like variable admittance control method to increase the safety, robustness, and adaptability of robot space assembly. The team successfully verified the effectiveness of their method through space satellite assembly simulation verification.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateOct 28, 2023

Increasing risk of invasive species colonization on marine debris

A recent study reveals that marine debris along the Indian southeast coast enables the spread of invasive species, including the mussel Mytella strigata. The research highlights the pressing issue of plastic pollution facilitating non-indigenous organism introduction, posing a significant threat to regional marine ecosystems.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateOct 28, 2023

How do animals know it’s lunchtime?

Researchers found that quasimodo (qsm) gene helps sync feeding to light/dark cycles, while genes clock (clk) and cycle (cyc) govern eating/fasting cycles. This discovery sheds light on animal behavior and potential treatments for eating disorders.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournaliScience·DateOct 28, 2023