Algorithm identifies 188 new CRISPR gene-editing systems

CRISPR systems are powerful tools for genetic engineering, but they have their limitations. Now, scientists have discovered almost 200 new CRISPR systems in their native habitat of bacteria, and found that some can edit human cells even more precisely … Continue reading Algorithm identifies 188 new CRISPR gene-editing systems

MIT’s wearable ultrasound patch measures bladder fullness without gel

Researchers at MIT have designed a wearable ultrasound patch that can image organs as well as a conventional ultrasound does, without the need for cold gel or an operator. While they used it to measure bladder fullness, the device could also be adapted… Continue reading MIT’s wearable ultrasound patch measures bladder fullness without gel

Inkbit tech 3D-prints complex multi-material items in a single session

3D printing single objects out of different materials can be difficult, if those materials cure at different rates. The new Inkbit system addresses that problem, and has been used to print a highly complex functional robotic hand … in just one print jo… Continue reading Inkbit tech 3D-prints complex multi-material items in a single session

Could “armored” bacteria replace chemical fertilizers?

Conventional chemical fertilizers aren’t among the most eco-friendly substances in the world, which is one reason why some farmers are exploring the use of beneficial bacteria as an alternative. A new coating technology could make such microbes more wi… Continue reading Could “armored” bacteria replace chemical fertilizers?

Could “armored” bacteria replace chemical fertilizers?

Conventional chemical fertilizers aren’t among the most eco-friendly substances in the world, which is one reason why some farmers are exploring the use of beneficial bacteria as an alternative. A new coating technology could make such microbes more wi… Continue reading Could “armored” bacteria replace chemical fertilizers?

Corsair F4U electric longboard hits 30 mph, and folds in a jiffy

Electric longboards definitely track better than shorter e-skateboards, making them great for commuting … but they are harder to carry and store. The speedy Corsair F4U addresses that shortcoming with what looks like a quick and easy folding mechanism…. Continue reading Corsair F4U electric longboard hits 30 mph, and folds in a jiffy

Bacteria-filled “living dressing” could help heal chronic wounds

Ordinarily, when treating chronic wounds, caregivers go to great lengths to keep them free of bacteria. An experimental new dressing, however, actually introduces bacteria to help such wounds heal.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, ScienceTags: Empa, M… Continue reading Bacteria-filled “living dressing” could help heal chronic wounds

Water can evaporate with just light, no heat, says surprising study

Contrary to what we all learned in elementary school science class, it turns out that heat may not be necessary to make water evaporate. Scientists at MIT have made the surprising discovery that light alone can evaporate water, and is even more efficie… Continue reading Water can evaporate with just light, no heat, says surprising study

Brainwave-reading tech maintains optimum dosage of general anesthesia

Administering general anesthesia is a tricky business, as you don’t want to under- or overdo it. With that quandary in mind, scientists have now developed an automated system that continuously adjusts the dosage, based on the patient’s brain waves.Cont… Continue reading Brainwave-reading tech maintains optimum dosage of general anesthesia

300 Earths’ worth of heavy metals forged in powerful cosmic explosion

Astronomers have detected one of the most energetic explosions in the history of the universe – a gamma ray burst thrown off by two neutron stars colliding. And for the first time ever, heavy metals were detected being produced in the explosion, totali… Continue reading 300 Earths’ worth of heavy metals forged in powerful cosmic explosion