A new endeavor explores the idea of topological qubits that are easy to engineer for error-free quantum computing. Quantum computers, which operate using quantum bits or qubits, are being touted as the…
Detecting tuberculosis outside the lungs
A new fluorescent probe for detecting tuberculosis can now identify disease-causing bacteria in extra-pulmonary tissue for better diagnosis. According to the WHO, a total of 1.5 million people died from tuberculosis (TB)…
Solar cells created with a single sheet of paper
A new ink deposition method simplifies a complicated process for creating efficient perovskite solar cells. With hopes of a green energy transition on the horizon, developments in renewable energy technologies are becoming…
Microrobots that can grow their own bones
A new material gives way to simple microrobots that take advantage of mineralization processes in the body to help in bone repair. Nature, as always, provides a wealth of inspiration for researchers…
Intestinal patch delivered by wireless capsule
A magnetic, drug-delivering capsule precisely navigates the GI tract to heal gastrointestinal disease and injury. When clinicians need to peer inside the digestive track, the most common approach is to use an…
Monitoring intra-abdominal pressure with new radar system
A non-invasive means of monitoring intra-abdominal pressure using a wireless radar system could save lives in the ICU. The prognosis for critically ill patients, regardless of illness, can be drastically affected by…
A sprayable chemical sensor for better environmental monitoring
An innovative chemical sensor design could make environmental monitoring in the field more efficient and effective. Detecting harmful chemicals in the environment is important for maintaining both ecological and public health. Though…
A wearable air sampler to detect SARS-CoV-2
A wearable air sampler to help monitor personal exposure to SARS-Cov-2 and identify high-risk areas for indoor exposure. Image credit: Benjamin Zanatta on Unsplash At this point in the pandemic, it is…
3D laser printing inside synthetic cells
3D-printed structures can be built inside synthetic cells without opening or damaging them. What is synthetic life? This question is at the center of the burgeoning field of bottom-up synthetic biology, where…
Self-repairing electronics on the horizon
Through a happy accident, researchers have identified a new self-repairing electronic material that could make sci-fi dreams a reality. Imagine that instead of having to pay a hefty bill after dropping your…