Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research and the Heidelberg University have found a new use for sound waves – creating 3D objects. The researchers have developed a way to use multiple acoustic holograms to generate pressure fields that can be used to print solid particles, gel beads and biological cells. This technique paves the way for 3D cell culture techniques that could revolutionize biomedical engineering.

The new method uses ultrasound, which has the advantage of being gentle on biological cells and able to penetrate deep into tissue without causing damage. By using high-frequency ultrasound, the researchers can manipulate very small building blocks like biological cells, allowing them to form a 3D object from smaller building blocks in a single step. (Read more here)

The researchers used multiple acoustic holograms together to form a combined field that could catch particles and cells floating freely in water and assemble them into three-dimensional shapes. While the digitization of an entire 3D object into ultrasound hologram fields is computationally demanding, the scientists believe that their technology is a promising platform for the formation of cell cultures and tissues in 3D.

In a world where 3D printing can be a slow and time-consuming process, this new technique turns up the volume on manufacturing. So, turn up the volume on your sound waves and let’s see what you can create!

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🌍 Climate Change Feedback Loops

27 Reasons to Panic?

In a new study, researchers from Oregon State University and other institutions have identified 27 global warming accelerators, known as amplifying feedback loops, which they say are not being fully accounted for in climate models. The findings add to the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and provide a roadmap for policymakers seeking to prevent the worst consequences of a warming planet.

While the study is a serious call to action, the researchers couldn't resist injecting a bit of humor into their message. After all, when faced with a planetary emergency, what else can you do but laugh?

The researchers describe amplifying feedback loops as situations where a climate-caused alteration triggers a process that causes even more warming, intensifying the alteration. For example, warming in the Arctic leads to melting sea ice, which in turn causes further warming because sea water absorbs rather than reflects solar radiation.

The researchers say that many of the feedback loops they examined significantly increase warming because of their connection to greenhouse gas emissions. The study calls for immediate and massive emissions reductions to minimize short-term warming and mitigate possible major threats looming from climate tipping points.

The researchers suggest that transformative, socially just changes in global energy and transportation, short-lived air pollution, food production, nature preservation, the international economy, and population policies based on education and equality are needed to meet these challenges in both the short and long term. (Read more here)

It's too late to fully prevent the pain of climate change, the researchers say, but if we take meaningful steps soon while prioritizing human basic needs and social justice, it could still be possible to limit the harm.

So, there you have it. The clock is ticking, and we need to act fast. It's time to make some changes, have a laugh, and save the planet.