Rat brains lose the ability to regulate calories after a high-fat diet

From feeding cancer cells to triggering depression, there are a host of reasons why a high-fat diet isn’t optimal for human health. Now, researchers at the Penn State College of Medicine have added another discovery to the long list of adverse effects … Continue reading Rat brains lose the ability to regulate calories after a high-fat diet

Microneedle patch shown to stop bleeding faster than regular dressings

Skin-applied microneedle patches are already used to painlessly deliver medication and detect chemicals in a patient’s bloodstream. An experimental new one, however, reportedly stops wounds from bleeding much more effectively than traditional bandages…. Continue reading Microneedle patch shown to stop bleeding faster than regular dressings

Simple automotive collision-avoidance sensor inspired by insect brains

Self-driving cars typically use radar or LiDAR technology to avoid collisions with other vehicles. Scientists have now created a much simpler insect-inspired system that could serve the same purpose more efficiently – at night, that is.Continue Reading… Continue reading Simple automotive collision-avoidance sensor inspired by insect brains

Landmark 20-strain mRNA flu vaccine looks to prevent future pandemics

An incredible new study published in the journal Science demonstrates the potential for a single mRNA vaccine to provide protection from all 20 known influenza A and B virus subtypes. It’s hoped the vaccine, so far seen to be effective in preclinical a… Continue reading Landmark 20-strain mRNA flu vaccine looks to prevent future pandemics

Electric sparks from plants during thunderstorms may affect air quality

Fascinating new research from atmospheric scientists at Penn State University has found during thunderstorms, electrical discharges on tree leaves can generate significant volumes of chemicals that may affect the air quality in surrounding forests.Cont… Continue reading Electric sparks from plants during thunderstorms may affect air quality

High-density EV battery puts 10-minute charge times on the table

Bigger batteries that can store more energy are only part of the puzzle when it comes to driving mainstream adoption of electric vehicles, with scientists also working to minimize future plug-in times through advances in fast-charging technology. Scien… Continue reading High-density EV battery puts 10-minute charge times on the table

Thermoelectric device wraps around hot pipes to generate electricity

We’ve already heard about hoses that get wrapped around existing hot water pipes, using heat radiated from the pipe to heat water inside the hose. A new wrap-around device, however, uses that same pipe-heat to generate electricity.Continue ReadingCateg… Continue reading Thermoelectric device wraps around hot pipes to generate electricity

Heavy metals in cannabis plants could affect human health, study finds

A new study led by researchers from Penn State is outlining a number of strategies that should be employed by cannabis growers to mitigate the plant’s ability to absorb heavy metals from soil. The study indicates it is possible consuming cannabis conta… Continue reading Heavy metals in cannabis plants could affect human health, study finds

Skin-adhered sensor tracks blood glucose levels via its wearer’s sweat

Currently, most diabetics have to check their blood glucose levels by performing finger-prick blood tests, or via subdermal implanted sensors. An experimental new device, however, could someday do the job while simply adhered to the surface of the user… Continue reading Skin-adhered sensor tracks blood glucose levels via its wearer’s sweat

Dental implant could heal infected gums by generating electricity

While implanted artificial teeth do offer a longer-term alternative to dentures, they may need to be surgically replaced if chronic gum infections occur. Scientists are thus working on a better implant, that would generate electricity via mouth movemen… Continue reading Dental implant could heal infected gums by generating electricity