The Discoverer of Penicillin was Opposed to It!

Alexander Flemming accidentally discovered and isolated penicillin in September of 1928. This marked the start of modern antibiotics—everything before that were just hunches and rumors that molds and penicillin could inhibit bacteria growth. This hard evidence was great news for the sick and bacteria-ridden masses, but Flemming also saw something else interesting.

He noticed that the bacteria quickly developed antibiotic resistance when too little was used or it wasn't used long enough. Though he was revered for his discovery of penicillin, he often spoke out in his speeches against using it unless extremely necessary. And when it had to be used, he insisted that patients must not skimp on it or stop before the infection is gone, or the bacteria could grow to resist even the strongest stuff!

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New Device Could Help Gunshot Victims in Seconds!

The average adult has about five liters of blood, depending on size and weight. Gunshot wounds can cause a person to hemorrhage and die in fairly short order, particularly if the would is in a difficult place manage. A new invention could change that by packing and putting pressure on a gunshot wound in just 15 seconds. 

     

The product is called XStat, developed by RevMedx.

XStat is a clear syringe-like container that applies dozens of 12-millimeter-wide sponges directly into an open wound. Once the sponges contact the blood, they quickly swell up and cling to the wound, ensuring that they stay in place. Enough pressure is placed directly on the laceration to stop bleeding so the victim can be transported for surgery. 

One of the developers for this new device is John Steinbaugh, who retired from the U.S. Army as a Special Operations medic. Traditionally, battlefield wounds from bullets or shrapnel are packed tightly with gauze, which is incredibly painful and doesn't always work. Hemorrhages are the top cause of military deaths, and this could save lives.

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Hovercraft Coming To Market in 2017

No matter what anyone tells you, it is never too early to make your Christmas list for 2017. California-based tech company Aerofex has developed the Aero-X hovercraft that is slated to undergo flight tests in 2016 and—assuming no setbacks—they will hit the market in the US in 2017. They are expected to go for about $85,000. If you would like to be one of the first to get your hands on the Aero-X you can reserve yours now for only $5,000 down. 

The Aero-X hovercraft rides like a motorcycle and allows two riders with a combined weight of 140 kgs (310 lbs) to ride in tandem. After completing a vertical takeoff, riders can cruise at speeds of 72 km/h (45 mph) up to 3 meters (10 feet) off the ground. The rotary engine uses standard automotive gasoline and runs for about 1.25 hours per tank. That might seem a bit low, but gas mileage was the tradeoff for carbon fiber rotors that are easier to control and much cheaper than traditional aircraft rotors.

Safety is an obvious concern with this vehicle and Aerofex has covered all the bases. The rotors are shrouded in ducts that permit airflow while preventing accidental contact with property or body parts, and it also contributes to a boost in lift. Redundancies in the controls and engine allow the vehicle to keep running smoothly and come to a controlled stop, even if something goes wrong during flight. Sway bars will give added stability and resist rolling while making tight maneuvers, while computerized sensors will automatically adjust the rotors when faced with strong gusts of wind. For an added layer of protection, there is an option to add airbags throughout the vehicle.

The Aero-X will not require a pilot’s license, though individual states may require certification, similar to the process required for boats and other off-highway vehicles like quads, dune buggies, or snowmobiles. As the Aero-X is unique in that it needs to be controlled in three dimensions, there is a bit of an adjustment period for the pilot to fully handle the vehicle with confidence.

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