Sci-Tech Briefs
Cosmic dust leads to inorganic life
A team of Russian scientists, led by Vadim Tsytovich of Russia’s General Physics Institute in Moscow, claim that dust particles in space can assemble themselves into inorganic, life-like structures.
Though these new-found structures do not share any of the compound chemical processes of the most basic life-forms on Earth, their chemical makeup carries out generic biological actions of the organic system, such as growth and development. Moreover, genetic mutation and trait inheritance are also visible in these coiled formations.
As most scientists meet this claim with perplexity or disregard, Gregor Morfill of the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany suggested that “though the results are based on numerical, computer-based models, dusty plasmas may satisfy the commonly accepted minimum conditions used to define life.”
Source: National Geographic
Men have built-in maintenance
Research shows that stem cells from testicle tissue is capable of renewing other parts of the human body. In addition to healing wounds, renewing lost tissue, and in some cases reviving organs, this source of stem cells may prove to be ideal for organ transplants.
Shahin Rafii of Cornell University’s Weill Medical College in New York, alongside the Harvard Hughes Medical Institute, have successfully grown blood vessels and muscle cells from the testicle tissue of mice.
While these claims have not yet been verified in human treatment, Rafii stated that a small sample of flesh from the testicles should be enough to verify them.
Source: Reuters
Man lights salt water on fire
John Kanzius, a cancer researcher in Erie, Pa., has discovered that salt water can burn when exposed to radio frequencies for a certain length of time.
Kanzius’ claim was verified by Rustum Roy of Penn State University, who conducted his own experiments showing the separation of elements in salt water, and the discharge of hydrogen from water, due to radio frequencies.
Since more than 70 percent of Earth is covered by salt water, scientists see this discovery as a potential source for fuel.
Source: Fox News
Robots help clean Japan
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. in Japan has created a vacuuming robot that helps out with cleaning chores in multinational organizations. The robot, which resembles a mini fridge on wheels, works during the night and uses the elevator to get to different floors.
These uniquely structured machines currently roam the floors of 10 buildings in Japan, even a 54-story skyscraper.
The robots are also a way to deal with the Japan’s aging population and declining workforce. By 2055, nearly half of Japan’s people will be over the age of 65.
Source: Reuters