New method significantly reduces AI energy consumption

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Facebook

XLinkedInWeChatBlueskyMessageWhatsAppEmail

AI applications such as large language models (LLMs) have become an integral part of our everyday lives. The required computing, storage and transmission capacities are provided by data centers that consume vast amounts of energy. In Germany alone this amounted to around 16 billion kWh in 2020, or around 1% of the country’s total energy consumption. For 2025, this figure is expected to increase to 22 billion kWh.

New method is 100 times faster with comparable accuracy

The arrival of more complex AI applications in the coming years will substantially increase the demands on data center capacity. These applications will use up huge amounts of energy for the training of neural networks. To counteract this trend, researchers have developed a training method that is 100 times faster while achieving accuracy comparable to existing procedures. This will significantly reduce the energy consumption for training.

The functioning of neural networks, which are used in AI for such tasks as image recognition or language processing, is inspired by way the human brain works. These networks consist of interconnected nodes called artificial neurons. The input signals are weighted with certain parameters and then summed up. If a defined threshold is exceeded, the signal is passed on to the next node. To train the network, the initial selection of parameter values is usually randomized, for example using a normal distribution. The values are then incrementally adjusted to gradually improve the network predictions. Because of the many iterations required, this training is extremely demanding and consumes a lot of electricity.

Parameters selected according to probabilities

Felix Dietrich, a professor of Physics-enhanced Machine Learning, and his team have developed a new method. Instead of iteratively determining the parameters between the nodes, their approach uses probabilities. Their probabilistic method is based on the targeted use of values at critical locations in the training data where large and rapid changes in values are taking place. The objective of the current study is to use this approach to acquire energy-conserving dynamic systems from the data. Such systems change over the course of time in accordance with certain rules and are found in climate models and in financial markets, for example.

“Our method makes it possible to determine the required parameters with minimal computing power. This can make the training of neural networks much faster and, as a result, more energy efficient,” says Felix Dietrich. “In addition, we have seen that the accuracy of the new method is comparable to that of iteratively trained networks.”

---

Article Title

Training Hamiltonian neural networks without backpropagation

 

Tiny “rhinoceros beetle” robot does micro-scale manipulation in extreme conditions

Until now, when looking for a robot, the choice was between one that was autonomous and cordless, one that enabled high-precision manipulation, and one that could be used in extreme real-world environments. The HB-3 robot is the first that ticks all boxes

Yokohama National University

Facebook

XLinkedInWeChatBlueskyMessageWhatsAppEmail

 

image: 

Palm sized untethered autonomous holonomic precise robot for multi-purpose tasks in confined narrow space.

view more 

Credit: YOKOHAMA National University

Engineers have designed a tiny, low-weight and cordless robot that can act independently and with ultra-high precision in all directions in some of the most extreme conditions. The robot, which the designers call “Holonomic Beetle 3” (or HB-3)—as they were inspired by the movements and anatomy of the rhinoceros beetle—combines the use of piezoelectric actuators with autonomous technology to enable micro-scale manipulation tasks that were previously out of reach for robots.

HB-3 addresses a growing need across various industries—including laboratory automation, medical procedures, and scientific research—for precise manipulation at multiple scales, from nanomaterial and cell manipulation up to to chip component assembly, where human presence is limited or impossible. This is particularly necessary in vacuum, clean, draft, and biohazard safety chambers.

A paper describing the robot’s design and capabilities was published in the journal Advanced Intelligent Systems on January 26.

In recent years, autonomous (cordless) robots have been put to practical use in a range of industrial sectors, disaster sites, medical fields and extreme environments or confined spaces where human access is not feasible. Meanwhile, miniaturization of internal electronic components for all manner of devices has also proceeded apace, including the development of microbatteries and micro-supercapacitors that are only a few microns thick. However, the conventional positioning devices have remained stubbornly bulky and heavy compared with those tiny parts, so there was much room for improvement with respect to energy and space efficiency. Even if the driving circuits and batteries had become tiny, their range and operational freedom was still highly restricted.

To address these issues, various precision actuators—a robot’s “muscles,” basically, that convert energy (electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic) into motion—have been developed to improve these positioning devices. Piezoelectric actuators in particular have shown great promise. Piezoelectric materials such as the quartz in quartz watches or synthetic ceramics such as PZT (lead zirconate titanate) generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress (essentially a push or a squeeze). They also perform the reverse: deforming when an electric field is applied. This piezoelectric property permits ultra-fine movements by expanding or contracting in response to very precisely defined electrical signals, often at the nanometer scale.

However, while many miniature robots and grippers have been developed, until now there have been no mobile micromanipulators that integrate piezoelectric actuation technologies while also being autonomous and untethered, and adapted to real-world applications.

At the heart of HB-3’s design is its compact, lightweight structure—just 515 grams and measuring only 10 cubic centimetres in size. An integrated driving circuit using a single-board computer eliminates the issues that had been caused by power-supply cables in the team’s prior research. HB-3 is also equipped with an internal camera and performs tasks using machine learning algorithms that allow it to adjust its movements in real-time, a feature not found in previous micromanipulators.

In rigorous testing, the HB-3 demonstrated impressive performance across a variety of tasks in confined, isolated environments using different tools, such as precise tweezers for picking and placing a chip part or an injector for applicating a miniscule droplet, while enjoying an average positioning accuracy of just 0.08 mm along the x-axis and 0.16 mm along the y-axis, with 87 percent of tasks deemed successful. The tools can be converted into measurement probes, soldering irons, screwdrivers, and other precision instruments flexibly on demand and at many different scales from the meter down to the nanometer.    

“We’ve been able to push the boundaries of miniaturization to create a truly autonomous, untethered device that can operate in tight, hazardous spaces,” said Ohmi Fuchiwaki, associate professor with the Faculty of Engineering, at YOKOHAMA National University and one of the engineers behind the tiny machine. “The HB-3 can not only handle complex tasks but also do so with unmatched precision.”

Nevertheless, the team still wants to fine-tune their little beetle. They feel that HB-3’s processing speed, dependent on a Raspberry Pi CPU, could be improved, and the time that it takes for the robot to detect objects could be reduced, perhaps by offloading object detection to an external high-performance computer. Moving forward, the researchers also aim to improve its speed and precision, and explore integration of internal side-view and top-view cameras to improve z-axis positioning accuracy.

###

YOKOHAMA National University (YNU) is a leading research university dedicated to academic excellence and global collaboration. Its faculties and research institutes lead efforts in pioneering new academic fields, advancing research in artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum information, semiconductor innovation, energy, biotechnology, ecosystems, and smart city development. Through interdisciplinary research and international partnerships, YNU drives innovation and contributes to global societal advancement.

---

Journal

Advanced Intelligent Systems

DOI

10.1002/aisy.202400872 

Article Title

Untethered Autonomous Holonomic Mobile Micromanipulator for Operations in Isolated Confined Spaces

 

Yawn! Many people are bored by spiritual practice

A study provides surprising insights into the phenomenon of "spiritual boredom"

University of Vienna

Facebook

XLinkedInWeChatBlueskyMessageWhatsAppEmail

We commonly consider spiritual practices sources of peace and inspiration. A recent study led by researchers of the University of Vienna shows that they can also be experienced differently: Many persons feel bored during these practices – and this can have far-reaching consequences. The results recently published in the academic journal Communications Psychology open up an entirely new field of research and provide fascinating insights into a phenomenon that has received only scant attention so far.

Even though boredom is a heavily researched subject at the moment, spiritual boredom has so far been largely neglected in research. Psychologists at the University of Vienna and the University of Essex have now decided to address this "blind spot" and were surprised to find out that boredom frequently occurs during spiritual practice – and can have a clear detrimental effect. 

Control-value theory providing the research Basis

The control-value theory (CVT) provided the academic framework for the survey. The CVT posits that boredom – an unpleasant, aversive emotion characterised by changed time perception, wandering thoughts and the desire to escape the current situation – is primarily driven by two factors: perceived control of the ongoing activity and the subjective value we attach to it. According to first author Thomas Götz from the Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology at the University of Vienna, "boredom develops when we feel over-challenged or under-challenged by an activity or task – a sign of an unsuitable level of control. And it also develops when we deem the value of the activity low." 

Manifold causes and far-reaching consequences

In a large-scale study analysing five typical spiritual contexts (yoga, meditation, silent retreats, Catholic sermons and pilgrimages), the researchers surveyed more than 1,200 adults. The results show that the central triggers of spiritual boredom are in fact the feeling of being over-challenged or under-challenged as well as a lack of personal relevance for those practising the spiritual activity. Both have a negative effect on motivation and mindfulness during practice and may seriously dampen its positive effect. "Our research shows that boredom in spiritual contexts can pose a serious obstacle, which reduces the transformative power of these practices," says Götz.

Times of crises and the search for meaning

In a world shaped by global crises, such as the climate crisis and social tensions, more and more people are hoping to find orientation through spiritual practice. However, the study shows that perceived boredom may inhibit this process. "It is important to individually adapt spiritual practices and to repeatedly emphasise their relevance and meaning in order to promote their transformative value for our society," says educational psychologist Götz. Based on the CVT, the research team recommends to better personalise spiritual practices and to better respond to the needs of persons engaging in them. "Spiritual teachers should maintain an active dialogue with those involved in the spiritual practice about feeling over-challenged or under-challenged. In addition, they should emphasise the relevance of spiritual practice for a fulfilling life," explains Götz. These measures could contribute to reducing spiritual boredom and to maximising the positive effects of spiritual practice.

This first study on spiritual boredom opened up a completely new field of research. The research team has made an important contribution to demonstrating the negative effects of boredom during spiritual practice.

---

Journal

Communications Psychology

DOI

10.1038/s44271-025-00216-7 

Article Title

Spiritual boredom is associated with over- and underchallenge, lack of value, and reduced motivation

Article Publication Date

5-Mar-2025

21ST CENTURY ALCHEMY

Arsenic detoxification: how bacteria and minerals work together

Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE

Facebook

XLinkedInWeChatBlueskyMessageWhatsAppEmail

 

image: 

Synergistic Mechanism of Arsenic Detoxification by Goethite and Arsenic-Oxidizing Bacteria (SY8). This figure illustrates the synergistic mechanism by which goethite (Goe) and arsenic-oxidizing bacteria (SY8) enhance arsenic detoxification. The bacteria oxidize toxic arsenite [As(III)] to less harmful arsenate [As(V)], a process amplified by goethite's catalytic effects. The interaction between the bacteria and goethite promotes the generation of hydroxyl radicals (·OH), activating the oxidation process, and enhancing arsenic adsorption and immobilization, which significantly reduces arsenic mobility in contaminated environments. The data on the left shows the increased aqueous As(V) levels at different time points for SY8 alone and the Goe-SY8 composite.

view more 

Credit: Eco-Environment & Health

A pioneering study has uncovered a novel approach to detoxifying toxic arsenic in contaminated soils, offering hope for tackling one of the world’s most pressing environmental health challenges. The research shows that the interaction between arsenic-oxidizing bacteria and goethite, a common Fe mineral, significantly accelerates the conversion of arsenic from its highly toxic form, arsenite [As(III)], into the less harmful arsenate [As(V)]. The formed As(V) can be adsorbed on the surfaces of Fe mineral, which is further enhanced by the presence of humic acid, a natural organic compound. These findings suggest a promising, sustainable solution to arsenic pollution, which could be leveraged for more effective remediation strategies.

Arsenic contamination of soils presents severe risks to human health and ecosystems, primarily due to the high toxicity and mobility of arsenite [As(III)]. While arsenate [As(V)] is less toxic and more easily immobilized, converting As(III) into As(V) is a critical step in detoxification efforts. Microorganisms and minerals like iron oxides are essential components in this transformation process. However, the intricate interactions between bacteria, minerals, and organic matter in soil environments are complex and not fully understood. These interactions can either enhance or hinder the detoxification process, depending on environmental conditions. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving arsenic remediation strategies.

A study (DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.12.001) published on December 18, 2024, in Eco-Environment & Health by researchers from Huazhong Agricultural University, China, investigates the synergistic effects of goethite, humic acid, and arsenic-oxidizing bacteria (SY8) on arsenic detoxification. Using advanced spectroscopic techniques and controlled experiments, the researchers explored how these components interact to enhance the oxidation of toxic As(III) into the safer As(V). The findings offer new insights into the mechanisms driving arsenic transformation, providing a potential pathway for more effective soil remediation.

The study revealed that while goethite—a common Fe mineral—initially inhibited the growth of arsenic-oxidizing bacterium SY8, it significantly boosted its ability to oxidize As(III) by the goethite and SY8 composites. This enhancement was attributed to hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generated through Fenton-like reactions, catalyzed by the interaction between goethite and the bacteria. Additionally, humic acid improved arsenic adsorption on mineral surfaces, reducing its mobility in the environment. Interestingly, the researchers noted that although goethite hindered bacterial growth, it played a crucial role in accelerating As(III) oxidation during the mid-phase of incubation. This dual function of goethite—both inhibitory and catalytic—emphasizes the complexity of microbial-mineral interactions in arsenic remediation. The study also highlighted that As(III) oxidation was most efficient under neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, underscoring the importance of pH management in remediation strategies.

Dr. Xiaoming Wang, the lead researcher, emphasized the significance of the study’s findings: "This research underscores the importance of understanding the intricate interactions between microbes, minerals, and organic matter in arsenic-contaminated environments. By harnessing these natural processes, we can develop more sustainable and effective arsenic remediation strategies, ultimately reducing the impact of arsenic on human health and ecosystems."

The implications of this study are far-reaching, particularly in agricultural and industrial areas where arsenic contamination poses a serious threat to food safety and water quality. By leveraging the synergistic effects of bacteria and minerals, the study opens up possibilities for cost-effective, environmentally friendly remediation techniques. These could include bioaugmentation strategies, where arsenic-oxidizing bacteria are introduced to contaminated sites, or the use of mineral amendments to enhance natural detoxification processes. Moreover, the findings encourage the integration of microbial-mineral interactions into broader soil health management practices, offering a holistic approach to combating arsenic pollution and improving soil quality for sustainable agriculture.

###

References

DOI

10.1016/j.eehl.2024.12.001

Original Source URL

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eehl.2024.12.001

Funding information

This study was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program (2020YFC1806803 and 2023YFD1702800) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 41977021 and 42030709).

About Eco-Environment & Health (EEH)

Eco-Environment & Health (EEH) is an international and multidisciplinary peer-reviewed journal designed for publications on the frontiers of the ecology, environment and health as well as their related disciplines. EEH focuses on the concept of "One Health" to promote green and sustainable development, dealing with the interactions among ecology, environment and health, and the underlying mechanisms and interventions. Our mission is to be one of the most important flagship journals in the field of environmental health.

---

Journal

Eco-Environment & Health

DOI

10.1016/j.eehl.2024.12.001 

Subject of Research

Not applicable

Article Title

Enhanced As(III) adsorption-oxidation via synergistic interactions between bacteria and goethite

 

Plants struggled for millions of years after the world’s worst climate catastrophe

Can plants reveal the secrets of survival during Earth’s darkest days?

University College Cork

Facebook

XLinkedInWeChatBlueskyMessageWhatsAppEmail

 

image: 

At an outcrop north of Sydney, Australia, the research team unearths a rock covered in fossil leaves of the extinct ‘seed fern’ Dicroidium.

view more 

Credit: C. Mays

A team of scientists from University College Cork (UCC) , the University of Connecticut, and the Natural History Museum of Vienna have uncovered how plants responded to catastrophic climate changes 250 million years ago. Their findings, published in GSA Bulletin, reveal the long, drawn-out process of ecosystem recovery following one of the most extreme periods of warming in Earth’s history: the ‘End-Permian Event’.

With more than 80% of ocean species wiped out, the end-Permian event was the worst mass extinction of all time. But the impacts of this event for life on land have been elusive. By examining fossil plants and rocks from eastern Australia’s Sydney Basin, researchers have pieced together a multi-million-year story of resilience, recovery, and the long-term effects of climate change.

The long, unsteady path to ecosystem recovery

The fossils from these Australian rocks show that conifers, like modern pines, were some of the earliest to colonize the land immediately after the End-Permian catastrophe. But the recovery back to flourishing forests was not smooth sailing.

The researchers discovered that even higher temperatures during the ‘Late Smithian Thermal Maximum’ caused the collapse of these conifer survivors. In turn, they were replaced by tough, shrubby plants resembling modern clubmosses. This scorching period lasted for about 700,000 years and made life challenging for trees and other large plants.

It wasn’t until a significant cooling event—the ‘Smithian-Spathian Event’—that large, but unusual plants called ‘seed ferns’ began to flourish and establish more stable forests. These plants eventually came to dominate Earth’s landscapes for millions of years, paving the way for the lush forests during the Mesozoic ‘age of dinosaurs’.

So, after millions of years, the forest ecosystems of the Mesozoic came to look like those from before the end-Permian collapse. But crucially, the plant species that made up the new forests were completely different. “The term ‘recovery’ can be misleading” says Dr Chris Mays, Leader of the Mass Extinction Group at University College Cork, “forests recover eventually, but extinction is forever.”

What does this mean for us?

By understanding how ancient plant ecosystems weathered extreme climate swings, researchers hope to learn valuable lessons about how modern plants and ecosystems might cope with today’s climate crisis. Ecosystems depend on a fragile balance, with plants as the backbone of land food webs and climate regulation.

“This research highlights how crucial plants are, not just as the base of land food chains, but also as natural carbon sinks that stabilize Earth’s climate,” explains UCC researcher, Marcos Amores, the study’s lead author. “The disruption of these systems can have impacts lasting hundreds of thousands of years, so protecting today’s ecosystems is more important than ever.”

This deep dive into Earth’s distant past reminds us that plants are unsung heroes of life on Earth—then, now, and in the future.

---

Journal

Geological Society of America Bulletin

DOI

10.1130/B38017.1 

Method of Research

Imaging analysis

Subject of Research

Cells

Article Title

Amores, M., Frank, T.D., Fielding, C.R., Hren, M.T, and Mays, C. (2025). Age-controlled south polar floral trends show a staggered Early Triassic gymnosperm recovery following the end-Permian event.

Article Publication Date

6-Mar-2025