Researchers from The University of Osaka have developed a mathematical model for Volterra defects using differential geometry to analyze the relationships between different types of defects. Their work provides insight into the connections between edge dislocations and wedge disclinations and extends traditional theories in material science. Their results may help to explain the unusual mechanical properties of crystals so they can be used to design new materials.

A groundbreaking new method developed at The University of Osaka calculates the entropy of liquids using a non-empirical approach, requiring only the atomic species as input. This revolutionary technique eliminates the need for extensive experimental data, paving the way for enhanced predictions of chemical reactions and optimization of industrial applications involving liquids.

Long-term musical training may mitigate the age-related decline in speech perception by enhancing cognitive reserve, according to a study published July 15^th in the open-access journal PLOS Biology by Claude Alain from the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education, Canada, and Yi Du from the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The Southwest United States is currently facing its worst megadrought of the past 1,200 years. According to a recent study from The University of Texas at Austin, the drought could continue at least until the end of the century, if not longer.

In AIP Advances, by AIP Publishing, researchers from Chongqing Jiaotong University and Chongqing No. 7 Middle School compared the performance of three helmet materials under the most common types of impact and loading conditions. Though participation in sports can have positive impacts both physiologically and socially, extreme sports come with elevated risks. Researchers used computational simulations to run material comparisons for helmets made of strong plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), fiberglass alloys, and aluminum composites. The findings are valuable for all extreme sports, but Wang notes the importance of customizing helmet properties to their intended activity, as the effect of an impact depends on its interaction with gravity, the potential for a rebound, and more.