Valuable “super-black” material derived from plasma-treated wood

Vantablack, which is the world’s darkest material, could be in for some competition. Canadian scientists have created a super-black substance that has the potential to be cheaper, hardier and easier to manufacture … and it’s made out of wood.Continue R… Continue reading Valuable “super-black” material derived from plasma-treated wood

Knee ‘plug’ simplifies surgery and recovery

An osteochondral defect (OCD) is an area of focal damage involving the articular cartilage that lines the joint’s bony surface and a piece of underlying bone. OCDs in the knee can result from arthritis or an acute traumatic injury – a football tackle, … Continue reading Knee ‘plug’ simplifies surgery and recovery

Is your mutt tougher than my purebred? Study of 27,000 dogs weighs in

The “tough mutt” phenomenon is well known among dog owners. The thinking goes that a dog with one or more breeds mixed into its genetic recipe is going to be healthier and more able to fight off a range of health woes than purebred dogs, which sometime… Continue reading Is your mutt tougher than my purebred? Study of 27,000 dogs weighs in

“Molecular jackhammers” kill cancer by busting through cell walls

Scientists have demonstrated an intriguing new technique to treat cancer – “molecular jackhammers” that latch onto cancer cells, then vibrate vigorously to kill them when activated by infrared light.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, ScienceTags: Cance… Continue reading “Molecular jackhammers” kill cancer by busting through cell walls

New antibiotic family kills superbugs in a way they can’t resist

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are poised to become a global health concern in the coming decades. In the race to develop new weapons, scientists from Texas A&M have created a novel family of antibacterial polymers that can kill ‘superbugs’ in a way the… Continue reading New antibiotic family kills superbugs in a way they can’t resist

Pecans pack a punch in fighting obesity, diabetes and inflammation

Scientists have made the case for pecans to be given ‘superfood’ status as a new study reveals the nut has some surprising strengths. Researchers from the US and Mexico found that consumption of pecans (Carya illinoinensis) could successfully mitigate … Continue reading Pecans pack a punch in fighting obesity, diabetes and inflammation

Metal found spontaneously healing itself like human skin

It’s long been assumed that when a metal structure like a bridge or an engine develops a crack, it will only get worse over time. But that might not be the case, based on what researchers have just observed happening in a tiny piece of platinum.Continu… Continue reading Metal found spontaneously healing itself like human skin

Webb spots galactic smoke signals from across the universe

The James Webb Space Telescope has spotted complex organic molecules, which usually form in smoke and smog, in the very distant universe. With help from a galactic gravitational anomaly, the telescope could see the molecules from more than 12 billion l… Continue reading Webb spots galactic smoke signals from across the universe

Palm-worn e-tattoo sensor monitors stress on the sly

While most of us have a pretty good sense of when we’re getting too stressed, people with certain mental health issues may benefit from being made aware of the situation, so they can take the appropriate action. A new palm-worn electronic tattoo could … Continue reading Palm-worn e-tattoo sensor monitors stress on the sly

New living wall uses recycled materials for better growing conditions

Plant-covered “living walls” are becoming increasingly popular, as they look nice, produce oxygen, and (when outdoors) help keep buildings cool. A relatively new one is claimed to be more plant-friendly, plus it’s made of recycled materials.Continue Re… Continue reading New living wall uses recycled materials for better growing conditions