Nuclei in human cells breached by innovative nanopillars

In a move akin to puncturing an egg yolk without breaking the shell or egg white, researchers have figured out how to pierce the nucleus of a cell without hurting the rest of the structure. The breakthrough could be big news for medical treatments.Cont… Continue reading Nuclei in human cells breached by innovative nanopillars

Largest protein in nature discovered in algae toxin

A cell of Prymnesium parvum, or golden algae, in which the world's largest known protein was discovered

Scientists have discovered the largest known protein in biology. Given the fun name of PKZILLA-1, the protein was found in algae cells and helps them make toxins that are responsible for mass killings of fish.

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Just add water – revolutionary 3D printing ink has a salty secret weapon

The 3D printing of certain items could soon get a lot faster, simpler and more eco-friendly. That’s because scientists have developed a new 3D printing ink which is easily extruded as a liquid, but then solidifies on contact with a saltwater solution.C… Continue reading Just add water – revolutionary 3D printing ink has a salty secret weapon

Engineered microbes may find use in living, long-term mosquito repellent

There could soon be a non-toxic, longer-lasting and less-smelly alternative to DEET for repelling mosquitos. Scientists have created genetically engineered human skin bacteria that are decidedly unappealing to the irritating and disease-spreading insec… Continue reading Engineered microbes may find use in living, long-term mosquito repellent

Little life-saving patch is big on reading blood flow in the brain

A wearable ultrasound patch could soon be saving lives, by monitoring the blood flow in hospital patients’ brains. The device is only about the size of a postage stamp plus it works continuously, unlike traditional methods.Continue ReadingCategory: Med… Continue reading Little life-saving patch is big on reading blood flow in the brain

Plastic embedded with plastic-eating spores is degradable – and tougher

Scientists have demonstrated a creative solution to plastic pollution, one of our most pressing environmental problems. Plastic was embedded with spores of plastic-eating bacteria that are activated when dumped in landfill, biodegrading 90% of the mate… Continue reading Plastic embedded with plastic-eating spores is degradable – and tougher

“First plastic demonstrated to not create microplastics” has been tested

Even when it’s ground into microparticles, 97% of an algae-based plastic biodegrades in compost and water in under seven months, a new study has reported. The researchers hope their plastic will eventually replace existing petroleum-based ones, which h… Continue reading “First plastic demonstrated to not create microplastics” has been tested

Bloodborne pathogens quickly ID’d by melting their DNA

A new technique, which involves melting bacterial DNA found in blood samples, could deliver diagnoses of potentially fatal infections faster than ever before. Results may be obtained in a few hours, instead of days.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, Sc… Continue reading Bloodborne pathogens quickly ID’d by melting their DNA

Ultra-thin, high-res sensor records single-neuron activity deep in the brain

Researchers have used a novel manufacturing technique to create a minimally invasive, customizable sensor that can wirelessly record deep brain activity down to a resolution of one or two neurons. The device has potential applications in a wide range o… Continue reading Ultra-thin, high-res sensor records single-neuron activity deep in the brain

Transparent neural implant provides window to deeper brain activity

Researchers have created a thin transparent neural implant that can monitor activity on the brain’s surface but also account for functions at a deeper level. The hope is that it will lead to an accurate but less invasive brain-computer interface.Contin… Continue reading Transparent neural implant provides window to deeper brain activity