Using DNA for data storage

Scientists have figured out how to use DNA for data storage, by storing the data in ternary format (zeros, ones, and twos) rather than binary (ones and zeros) like typical computers. This isn’t just theoretical…they stored and retrieved an audio recording of Martin Luther King, and other information as well. This has the potential to store massive amounts of data in a very compact space for long periods of time…it’ll be interesting to see how this technology is applied in the coming years. Read more here.

This does make me wonder though…if we can manipulate DNA to this level…do we then have the potential to create new forms of life? We’re a long ways away from understanding the entire DNA code and being able to ‘program’ a new strand of DNA to do something, but that won’t stop people from trying.

January 28, 2013

TSA to stop using all x-ray body scanners

The TSA has announced that it plans to remove all x-ray (or backscatter, as it’s also known) body scanners and use only the radio-wave based scanners. The backscatter technology has received much criticism over health concerns and a lack of scientific testing to show they’re safe, and while the TSA finally started investigating the health risks associated with those machines in December of 2012, they say the decision to stop using these machines is due to the company’s inability to provide a timely software upgrade that would replace the actual image of the passenger with an avatar or other abstract graphical representation.

I’d written about the concerns with backscatter technology previously, and am hesitant to get too excited about this news. My concern now is that the study into the health effects will be terminated (as it should, to save money), yet OPI Systems (the backscatter scanner manufacturer) will upgrade their software and slightly change their hardware to allow them to release a ‘new’ model of scanner later this year which the TSA will then accept as a replacement for the 174 backscatter machines currently due to be sent back to OPI. Since it’s a ‘new’ machine, it’ll restart the clock, so to speak, for getting the TSA to begin investigating the health impact of it, then there will be a long, protracted study, etc, with the technology being used all the while. Of course, that’s just my pessimistic speculation..for now, it’s a victory for health as the machines are due to be removed and replaced with a safer technology.If you’re curious..check out this link for a good side by side comparison of the two scanner technologies.

January 18, 2013

Next generation hybrid cars

The Prius has been the shining example of hybrid technology for many years, but let’s face it, its design is aging and the technology isn’t keeping up. Ford has really led a charge lately with fuel efficient hybrids, such as this Fusion Energi that provides 21 miles of electric range (up to 85mph) and a combined MPGe of 100. All this in a big, traditional family car…not bad! They have a similar drivetrain in the smaller C-Max and given those choices, I’m not sure why anyone would choose a Prius anymore (except for perhaps wanting a car with a more normal-sounding name…).

I think of these Fords as second-generation hybrids…they offer better styling and usability, as well as electric-only mode. What’s really cool are the third generation hybrids being worked on, especially the Volkswagon XL1. The XL1 is really optimizing ALL pieces of the puzzle…slippery aerodynamics combined with a maximum efficiency diesel engine to produce an astounding 235mpg! Note that this is just a two-seat car, but imagine one of these as your commute vehicle…pretty cool!

January 17, 2013

The cost of living on Mars

What would it cost to fly to, and live on, Mars? Check out this cool infographic from SmartPlanet for the answer. The bottom line is it’s a lot of money, but is feasible, especially if you send more than one person (economies of scale kick in). It’s pretty cool to think that I might see this in my lifetime.

January 17, 2013

Nissan Leaf price drop

Great news for electric cars…Nissan just dropped the price of their all-electric Leaf, now starting at $28,800. Depending on where you live, tax credits and other incentives may lower the price to as low as $18,800! That’s with the $7500 federal tax credit, and a $2500 tax credit available in some states.

January 16, 2013