National Taiwan University

A new study reveals why we get goosebumps when it's cold

Biology

Harvard study finds that stem cell stimulation gives us goosebumps

Goosebumps are a weird quirk of our bodies that science doesn’t fully understand. Now, researchers at Harvard have uncovered a biological reason for the reaction: it’s our bodies’ way of stimulating stem cells to drive new hair growth.

Fidget spinners typically only cost a few dollars

Good Thinking

Fidget spinners could be used for cheap, off-the-grid blood testing

When it comes to frivolous gadgets, fidget spinners would seem to be one of the most … well, frivolous. Recently, however, scientists from National Taiwan University discovered that the devices could be used for blood sample analysis in impoverished regions.

Mosquito larvae are reportedly no match for chitin/silver nanoparticles

Science

Crab shells could help fight malaria

Chitin, which occurs in crustacean shells, has already been suggested for use in things like wound dressings, cheaper pharmaceuticals, and even proton-conducting transistors. Now, researchers have found that when combined with silver, it could also be used to kill malaria-spreading mosquitoes.

Created by the TAIDA system at National Taiwan University, "The Beauty of Taiwan" utilizes a technique known as atmospheric perspective, in which distant mountains appear blue due to the humid atmosphere

Robotics

Robot artists compete for cash

To recognize the burgeoning field of robot art, a new contest has been launched by website RobotArt.org, and you can help determine which mechanical painter will win.

By adding a bit of gold, artificial muscles can be made from these things (Photo: Shutterstock)

Robotics

Onion cells used to create artificial muscles

Most artificial muscles can only expand in one direction, or contract in the other. Now, however, scientists from National Taiwan University have gotten around that limitation using gold-plated onion cells.