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Uncoiling the cucumber's enigma

Scientists characterized a unique spring mechanism in cucumber plant tendrils, where they coil further upon pulling the ends, unlike traditional coils. The discovery led to the creation of a new type of twistless spring with high bending stiffness and twisting stiffness.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateAug 30, 2012

Noise down, neuron signals up

A new biologically accurate model of background noise in the nervous system has been developed to explain how noise induces delays in neuron responses. The researchers found that modulating two factors can help neurons encode information more accurately.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateAug 15, 2012

Who wouldn't pay a penny for a sports car?

In a study of hundreds of online auctions, Northwestern University researchers found that all participants use the optimal strategy, making the auction a game of pure chance. The 'bursty' strategy, which combines exploitation and exploration, is used by participants but ultimately leads to no advantage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 16, 2012

Jackson Pollock, artist and physicist?

A mathematical analysis of Pollock's work highlights his deliberate and calculated approach to natural phenomena. The study reveals that Pollock exploited fluid dynamics to create unique aesthetic effects, blurring the line between art and science.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPhysics Today·DateJun 28, 2011

Who's the best tennis player of all time?

A Northwestern University researcher developed a novel ranking system that evaluates male tennis players through network analysis. According to the study, Jimmy Connors ranks on top due to his long career and matches against other strong opponents. The rankings will be reassessed in 10 years to reflect changes in competition.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 2011

Breaking the ice before it begins

Researchers at Harvard University have designed nanostructured materials that prevent ice formation by repelling water droplets. The breakthrough could lead to efficient and sustainable solutions for keeping surfaces ice-free during harsh winter weather.

SourceHarvard University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 12, 2010

PNAS announces six 2009 Cozzarelli Prize recipients

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has selected six papers for the 2009 Cozzarelli Prize, acknowledging originality and scientific excellence across physical and mathematical sciences, biological sciences, engineering, biomedical sciences, behavioral and social sciences, and applied biological sciences. The award recog...

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2010

New funds for Rice, M.D. Anderson program

The Rice University-M.D. Anderson Cancer Center program provides incoming graduate students with early exposure to translational research and clinical practice. The HHMI funding renewal will allow the program to expand to include students from M.D. Anderson's Department of Imaging Physics.

How would Einstein use e-mail?

A Northwestern University study reveals that Albert Einstein and other famous writers followed a similar pattern of correspondence, writing in cycles and adhering to a circadian cycle. The research, published in Science, demonstrates the universality of human behavior patterns across different activities.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 2009

A simple therapy for brain injury

Researchers found that administering a simple polymer, Polyethylene glycol, within four hours of a head injury can limit damage and improve behavioral tests in rats. The treatment is potentially feasible for victims of traumatic brain injury, especially when delivered at the scene of an accident.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biological Engineering·DateJun 26, 2008

Engineers demonstrate a new type of optical tweezer

Engineers at Harvard University have developed a novel optical tweezer that can perform calibrated force measurements with high precision. The device, consisting of a Fresnel Zone Plate fabricated on a glass slide, has the potential to revolutionize biological and microfluidic applications.

SourceHarvard University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 25, 2008

Lab-on-chip testing for 'bird flu' developed by Singapore scientists

Researchers at IBN, IMCB, and GIS successfully developed a miniaturized device to detect the H5N1 virus in less than half an hour, showing promise for pre-emptive surveillance of avian flu epidemics. The device integrates multiple workflows into a single droplet-based system, offering potential advantages over existing tests.

How to avoid a bat

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered that Yellow Underwing moths change their ear sensitivity to bats' calls when being chased, and remain tuned for several minutes after. This phenomenon challenges current understanding of bat-moth co-evolution and has implications for other hearing systems in animals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 18, 2006