Daily Innovation News

June 21^st 2024

💻 Technology

🇨🇭 Swiss engineers unveil the world's first hydrogen-powered, vertical take-off plane which refuels for just $500

Swiss engineers have introduced SiriusJet, the first hydrogen-powered vertical take-off and landing aircraft, which can be refueled for just $500. This luxury aircraft produces 90% less noise than helicopters and has an emergency parachute system for enhanced safety. With a range of 1150 miles and zero emissions, SiriusJet offers a sustainable and quiet alternative to traditional aviation. The aircraft’s ability to operate at a noise level comparable to a dishwasher allows it to function near communities without disturbance.

⚡️ Energy

🇨🇳 Chinese scientists develop EV battery with a 1 million mile range and extreme temperature tolerance

Chinese scientists from Farasis Energy have introduced an EV battery that can last 1 million miles and operate between -22°F and 149°F. This breakthrough battery retains 70% state-of-health after over 5000 cycles, promising exceptional durability and efficiency. With applications in various vehicles, this innovation could significantly reduce operational costs and enhance performance in extreme climates. The battery was showcased at the ASEAN Automotive Supply Chain Conference in Thailand.

🇪🇸 Spanish scientists unveil new catalyst for green hydrogen production from water that eliminates the need for rare elements

Spanish scientists have developed a groundbreaking catalyst for green hydrogen production through water electrolysis, eliminating the need for rare elements like iridium. This new catalyst utilizes cobalt, although they are looking at alternatives, and harnesses unique properties of water to achieve stability and activity at industrial conditions, significantly advancing sustainable hydrogen generation. Published in Science, this innovation promises to reduce reliance on scarce materials and enhance efficiency in hydrogen production. The team aims to scale up this technology for industrial applications.

💊 Healthcare

🇦🇹 Austrian researchers develop 'space hairdryer' to regenerate heart cells post-surgery

Austrian researchers have created a shockwave device, dubbed the "space hairdryer," that enhances heart function after bypass surgery. Clinical trials demonstrated that the device regenerates heart tissue and improves heart pumping ability, showing an 11.3% boost in oxygenated blood flow. This innovative approach, published in European Heart Journal, combines bypass surgery with gentle shockwave therapy, awakening inactive cardiac cells and promoting new blood vessel growth. The device is expected to launch in 2025 following regulatory approval.

🇬🇧 British scientists develop AI to detect 13 deadly cancers with 98% accuracy

British scientists have created an AI model that detects 13 types of deadly cancers with 98% accuracy by analyzing tissue samples for specific DNA methylation signatures. This innovation, detailed in Biology Methods & Protocols, promises early cancer detection, leading to better patient outcomes. The AI utilizes machine learning to distinguish cancerous from non-cancerous tissues, offering a significant advancement in cancer prognosis and diagnosis. This breakthrough could revolutionize cancer treatment by enabling earlier intervention.

🇮🇪 Irish scientists devise an algorithm to engineer improved enzymes based on their evolutionary history

Irish scientists have developed an algorithm to rationally engineer enzymes by analyzing their evolutionary history, significantly enhancing their performance. Published in Nature Communications, this method allows for precise mutations, improving enzyme stability and activity, which could revolutionize industries from food production to healthcare. The study highlights that despite extensive changes to enzyme sequences, the engineered enzymes maintain their structure and functionality. This innovation promises to advance industrial applications requiring high-performance enzymes.

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