Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 17, 2005


Robots walk with close-to-human efficiency

Researchers at Cornell University and their colleagues have built robots that mimic the human gait, consuming energy comparable to a human walker. The robots use simple control programs, suggesting that steady-state human walking might require only simple control as well.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateFeb 17, 2005

JCI table of contents March 1, 2005

Researchers uncover how alpha-defensin-1 inhibits HIV infection in CD4+ T cells and how lubricin protects cartilage surfaces. These findings provide insights into innate immunity against HIV and may lead to the development of defensin-like drugs for prevention and treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 17, 2005

Mechanical tension helps shape lung development

Research by Ingber and colleagues found that manipulating mechanical force in developing mouse lungs can slow down or speed up growth, which could lead to novel treatments for lung conditions. This study sheds light on the importance of mechanobiology in understanding normal lung development and potential intervention pathways.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalDevelopmental Dynamics·DateFeb 17, 2005

Defensins ward off HIV in two ways

Researchers found that alpha-defensin-1 directly inactivates HIV when serum levels are low, while also acting on vulnerable cells to block infection. The study provides a basis for developing defensin-like drugs to prevent and treat HIV.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 17, 2005

Small is different

Computer simulations have revealed that gold is an effective catalyst when it's in clusters of eight to two dozen atoms, and electrical charging plays a crucial role. This breakthrough has opened up new avenues for exploring environmental effects on catalysis.

Brain activity of men and women during hostile or impulsive acts differs less on nicotine

A recent study found that nicotine can eliminate the differences in brain activity between men and women during hostile or impulsive acts. Brain imaging research conducted by UCI showed that when participants were given nicotine, the brain-metabolism activity was virtually identical for both sexes.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalThe International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateFeb 17, 2005

Worms, slugs inspire robotic devices

Researchers have developed two novel robotic devices inspired by the movement of worms and slugs, including an endoscopic device that can navigate complex spaces and a gripping device that can pick up soft objects without damaging them. The devices aim to reduce discomfort and increase compliance during medical procedures.