Our brain matter is stuck at a phase transition, says new study

[New Atlas logo]( Biology [Our brain matter is stuck at a phase transition, says new study]( [The brain is in a perfectly balanced state that keeps it from transitioning to a gas or liquid says new research (Image generated using AI tools)]( Based on fractal patterns in neurons, researchers believe our brains exist at or near a state called criticality where they're extremely close to shifting from one state of matter to another. They also admit they don't know what either state is. [Read more]( Special Promotion for New Atlas Readers [Secure browsing for up to 5 devices with Deeper Connect Air, now $159]( In today's digital age, a strong online presence is essential, but so is safeguarding your privacy. The Deeper Connect Air Portable VPN Travel Router is your affordable pocket-sized fortress, offering ironclad security and unfettered web browsing. [Read more]( Automotive [World's gnarliest 4x4 mega-MPV gets gnarlier]( [Torsus motors forward with the Praetorian TG3]( The trail-breaking Torsus Praetorian 4x4 bus is already one of the world's most capable large off-roaders. The newly upgraded Praetorian TG3 furthers that capability with an air suspension, improved chassis-to-body mounting, and creature comforts. [Read more]( Space [Video: "Impossible" frost found on Martian mountains]( [Frost on Olympus Mons]( Sometimes the impossible turns out to be not so impossible. From satellite data, scientists have discovered frost forming on top of the tallest volcanic mountains in the solar system on Mars. The snag is that it shouldn't be there at all. [Read more]( Science [Superman’s X-ray vision goes handheld]( [A miniaturized imager chip inspired by Superman's X-ray vision can see objects through cardboard]( Researchers have created a tiny chip that can take images of objects through cardboard. The technology, designed to fit inside a smartphone, brings us a step closer to wielding Superman’s X-ray vision abilities (without the X-rays). [Read more]( Energy [Mesmerizing vertical turbine wall to enter customer trials this year]( [Pre-production Airiva units are expected to start customer pilots in the second half of this year, a head of initial orders from 2025]( Since revealing an wind turbine wall concept back in 2021, Joe Doucet has been working on bringing the idea to life. That time is here with the launch of Airiva, a modular rotary wind turbine wall destined for installation on city infrastructure. [Read more]( Automotive [Choosing a home EV charger is more complicated than you’d think]( [Choosing a home EV charger can be difficult for new EV owners]( EVs and the infrastructure around them is still very new. For consumers, an EV might sound great, but it’s a lifestyle change that may require some added work outside of the vehicle purchase itself. I’ve been going through that learning curve myself. [Read more]( Military [€9 million in military robots ordered from German startup by NATO]( [The GEREON Armored Light Autonomous Target Carrier can withstand live gunfire and is meant to be used for training exercises]( ARX Robotics has just received €9 million from the NATO Innovation Fund to develop a series of robust unmanned ground vehicles. The modular design of the bots makes them capable of filling a variety of roles in the alliance's attack and defense systems. [Read more]( Architecture [Extraordinary winged museum prepares for flight in Abu Dhabi]( [The Zayed National Museum's main building takes the form of a 30-m (98-ft)-tall "mound" that's inspired by the topography of the UAE]( Work is nearing completion on an extraordinary new project by Foster + Partners. The Zayed National Museum is defined by five sculpted "wings" designed for more than just their looks – they will actually help keep the interior cool naturally. [Read more]( Biology [Elephants talk to family and friends using individual ‘names’]( [Elephants communicate using vocalizations similar to human names]( Wild elephants have exhibited a rare ability among animals: communicating with others in their social circle using individual ‘names.’ The new research suggests that their human-like communication may mean elephants are capable of complex thought. [Read more]( You are receiving this email because you signed up for our daily newsletter at [newatlas.com]( (or [gizmag.com]( before August 2016). [Update profile]( | [Unsubscribe]( Copyright New Atlas © 2022