Astrobiologists have discovered a way for exposed bacteria to survive voyages through space, giving them the potential to spread life throughout the universe. Continue reading Bacteria May Have Figured Out Space Travel
Researchers create a melanin particle containing selenium, providing even more protection from harsh UV rays. These nanoparticles can be incorporated into clothing – providing astronauts a very lightweight alternative to lead shielding. Continue reading Artificial Sunscreen Protects Cells from X-ray Radiation
Materials engineers at MIT have developed a new, more reliable design for a “memristor,” a component of computer circuits that could revolutionize artificial intelligence, improve efficiency of learning, lower energy costs, and fundamentally change the design of computers. Continue reading Thinking with Memristors
Researchers have discovered a mysterious, repeating pattern of fast radio bursts from space – and no one knows where they are coming from. Continue reading Mysterious Pattern of Fast Radio Bursts Detected in Space
Because of food allergies, we need a fast way to test for allergens and contaminants in over 33 million kg/day of protein are available in North America. Aerosol-printed graphene sensors may be the way. Continue reading Fast food allergen sensors with aerosol-printed graphene
Engineers have built an artificial eye inspired by the design of biological eyes which can harness the many valuable characteristics of the human eye for image-sensing. It’s possible that it may even surpass the human eye in performance. Continue reading Looking to the Future: Creating an Artificial Eye
Current polio vaccines have been successful in nearly eradicating polio in the world. Unfortunately, there have been emerging cases of polio in recent years. To combat this, scientists have designed a new oral poliovirus vaccine that could result in a new and safer polio vaccine. Continue reading Redesigning the polio vaccine – Lessons from evolution
Central to coral reefs around the world is the deeply interdependent relationship between corals and algae. This interconnection is responsible for algae’s protected habitat, corals’ bright colors, and the mutual exchange of nutrients for photosynthesis. Algae growth is modulated by a process called self-shading, decreasing exposure to light. In an artificial setup, however, this process prevents researchers from growing coral quickly. To prevent this light … Continue reading 3D printed corals grow algae that photosynthesize more efficiently
Scientists use 3D printed brain tissue and cancer to quickly test drug efficacy. Continue reading 3D-Printed Brain Helps Scientists Study Cancer and Test Drugs
by Christopher Rota figures by Hannah Zucker When the first Apollo program astronauts set foot on the Moon in 1969, their footsteps inspired a generation. This opened a new realm of possibility for what humans can achieve with the necessary motivation and resources. Now, just over 50 years later, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has put the wheels in motion to lay down a fresh … Continue reading Should We Help NASA “Shoot for the Moon” Again?