Daily Innovation News

September 25^th 2024

💻 Technology

🇺🇸 US automaker Ford patents tech to protect drivers from unknowingly carrying drugs

Ford has patented a system that detects and warns drivers if their vehicle is being used for drug trafficking without their knowledge, also known as becoming a "blind mule." The system uses sensors and cameras to identify suspicious activity, such as unusual weight distribution or unfamiliar GPS signals, and records evidence for later use. While it's unclear if this technology will be widely deployed, it could have broader applications, like preventing high-tech car thefts.

🚀 Space

🇺🇸 US company tests sightseeing capsule for balloon flights to the edge of space

A Florida-based company has successfully tested its sightseeing capsule, Spaceship Neptune-Excelsior, which reached an altitude of 100,000 feet, offering views of Earth’s curvature and outer space. The uncrewed capsule, lifted by a hydrogen-filled balloon, demonstrated key systems such as thermal controls and descent technology. The capsule is set to offer tourists a six-hour journey with two hours of viewing in 2025. Each flight will cost $125,000.

🌎 Environment

🇨🇳 Chinese researchers develop improved cement to boost coastal ecosystem protection through coral growth

Scientists in China have enhanced cement used in artificial coastlines by adding polyacrylamide and chitosan to improve biofilm and coral growth. These treatments were applied to reduce the negative effects of traditional cement’s high alkalinity, promoting healthier ecosystems. Early tests showed significant biofilm and coral growth on treated cement, indicating its potential for better ecological integration in coastal protection structures. The findings were published in Biointerphases.

💊 Healthcare

🇺🇸 US researchers develop nasal spray offering 99.99% protection against flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19

Scientists in the US have created a nasal spray that traps and neutralizes respiratory viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia. Made from FDA-approved ingredients, the spray forms a gel in the nasal cavity that blocks pathogens more effectively than natural mucus. Lab tests showed a 99.99% reduction in virus levels, and animal trials demonstrated its ability to prevent deadly infections. The findings were published in Advanced Materials.

🇬🇧 UK scientists develop a blood test to identify children at risk of diabetes and heart disease

A team of UK researchers has created a blood test that measures lipid molecules to detect early warning signs of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease in children. Using mass spectrometry, the test identifies a broader range of lipids beyond just cholesterol, helping doctors assess risks related to metabolism. Published in Nature Medicine, the study could help reshape the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases in children.

🇨🇳 Chinese scientists create artificial spider silk bandages to speed up wound healing

Researchers in China have engineered artificial spider silk from proteins, strong enough to be woven into bandages that treat joint injuries and skin lesions. Using a 3D printing process, the silk fibers improved wound healing in mice with osteoarthritis and diabetes. These biodegradable and biocompatible bandages offer a promising new method for enhancing tissue repair in medical applications. The findings were published in ACS Nano.

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