Free Republic

Scientists have uncovered a bizarre new bacterium that behaves like a living wire, opening the door to pollution-fighting tech and next-gen bioelectronics. A newly discovered species of bacteria that conducts electricity like a living wire is shaking up the scientific world. Named Candidatus Electrothrix yaqonensis, the organism was found in Oregon’s Yaquina Bay mudflats and described in a study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology. With unique structural and metabolic traits, this microbe may one day be used to clean up pollution or inspire the next generation of bioelectronics. A Bridge Between Species with Electrifying Genetics Researchers from Oregon State...

BOCA RATON, Fla. - A teen engineering prodigy who gained national attention in 2002 when he and his family received identification chip implants on live television was killed in a motorcycle accident, authorities said. Derek Jacobs, 18, lost control of his motorcycle early Saturday and crashed into a guardrail and a pole, the Palm Beach County sheriff's office said. He was wearing a helmet. "It was just a crazy accident of a bump or something, and he was catapulted," said his mother, Leslie Jacobs. "He had, of course, potential, because he was brilliant, and he was just a wonderful son....