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A new litmus test for chaos?

Researchers from the University of Maryland have described a new definition of chaos that can be applied to a wide range of chaotic systems. Expansion entropy, a flexible type of entropy, is used to identify chaotic behavior in models that are forced by external inputs. This new definition has the potential to help advance computer mod...

How iron feels the heat

Scientists have uncovered a key factor driving iron's unique thermal behavior, revealing a synergy between magnetism and atomic vibrations that increases the metal's stability at high temperatures. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate predictions of steel properties and enable the development of new, stronger alloys.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateFeb 13, 2015

Effect of repeated-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation at the Guangming point on EEGs

Researchers found that repeated-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation at the Guangming point induces distinct electroencephalogram signal patterns compared to other stimulation points. The study also revealed changes in visual response complexity in parietal, central, and temporal regions following this stimulation.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 24, 2014

Never say never in the nano-world

An international team of researchers found that a nanoparticle trapped with laser light temporarily violates the second law of thermodynamics, allowing it to release heat to hotter surroundings. This rare event occurs due to the non-equilibrium state created by cooling the nanoparticle below the surrounding gas temperature.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 31, 2014

The entropy of nations

The study reveals a decrease in global energy inequality, with the distribution of per-capita energy consumption approaching an exponential law. As nations like China move up the curve, energy consumption becomes increasingly concentrated among high-consuming nations.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalEntropy·DateJan 3, 2014

IUPUI study: Finding Occam's razor in an era of information overload

A new study led by Steve Pressé reveals a preferred strategy for picking mathematical models with the greatest predictive power, emphasizing simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. The study's findings support Occam's razor principle, suggesting that simpler theories are more likely to be correct.

New theory on fairness in economics targets CEO pay

A new theory proposes a method to determine fair CEO compensation using information theory and statistical thermodynamics. The ratio of CEO pay to the lowest employee salary has increased significantly in recent years, with US CEOs averaging around 344-to-1, raising questions about market efficiency.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEntropy·DateNov 3, 2009

In a show of entropy's benefits, scientists find 'fuzzy' molecules can assemble precisely into distinct lattices

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that adding a 'fuzz' of chemical chains to colloidal molecules can lead to the formation of predictable arrays of lattices. This entropy-driven phenomenon offers promise for designing new materials rationally rather than through trial and error.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateOct 24, 2001