"I only bring attention to it because the world is going a little bit mad, " he said.

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Other molecules that react with light then attach to the phospholipids and, with a little illumination, start firing out electrons like mad.

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The duo (also known as Evil Mad Scientists) created a charming little droid called a BristleBot which can be easily constructed using the head of a toothbrush, a pager motor, and a tiny amount of elbow grease.

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"Bukowski had a story that essentially was saying that it's the little things that drive men mad, " Waits said.

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