When materials are subjected to sliding forces, small amounts of impurities such as oxygen can actually help stabilize nano-sized voids in amorphous carbon (a-C). This stabilization allows nearby carbon atoms to rearrange into aromatic, graphene-like configurations that promote extremely low friction. Credit: Osaka Metropolitan University Impurities are typically viewed as flaws that should be eliminated to enhance material performance. However, new findings from Osaka Metropolitan University

The Gotland ponies living at Slottsskogen animal park in Gothenburg interact closely and regularly with visitors at the Children’s Zoo. According to new findings from the University of Gothenburg, this frequent contact does not cause the horses noticeable stress. Photo: Pamela Ericsson The ponies at the Children’s Zoo appear comfortable being stroked by both children and adults. In contrast, loud construction noise—such as that from an excavator—does trigger a stress response. This conclusion