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Geysers have loops in their plumbing

A recent study by UC Berkeley professor Michael Manga found that geysers erupt periodically due to underground loops and side-chambers that trap steam bubbles. The study suggests that these underground features heat the water column above, eventually leading to sudden boiling and pressure release.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateFeb 24, 2015

Walking on ice takes more than brains

A cluster of neurons in the spinal cord, known as RORα neurons, integrates sensory information from light touch sensors to control muscle movements. This 'mini-brain' helps regulate balance and prevents falls by making subtle adjustments to foot position.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateJan 29, 2015

Hazy road to Mecca

During the annual hajj pilgrimage, scientists detected high levels of air pollutants, including carbon monoxide and benzene, in Mecca. The exposure to these chemicals increases the risk of heart failure, headaches, and other serious health issues, highlighting the need for improved regulations and reduced emissions.

Kessler Foundation researchers find foot drop stimulator beneficial in stroke rehab

A study published by Kessler Foundation researchers found that using a foot drop stimulator during walking can retrain the temporal activation of the tibialis anterior muscle, improving muscle function. The results suggest that this intervention may facilitate recovery from foot drop, a common complication of stroke.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateSep 23, 2014

Run, cheetah, run

Researchers at MIT have created a robotic cheetah that can run at high speeds using an algorithm inspired by the biomechanics of real cheetahs. The robot's legs are programmed to exert a certain amount of force in the split second during which it hits the ground, allowing it to maintain speed and stability.

Key to speed? Elite sprinters are unlike other athletes -- deliver forceful punch to ground

Researchers at Southern Methodist University found that elite sprinters use a unique gait feature to maximize speed, delivering a firm and rapid punch to the ground upon contact. The study, which compared data from competitive sprinters to other fast-running athletes, suggests that there is only one way to achieve high speeds.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateAug 26, 2014

Is height important in matters of the heart? New study says yes

A new study from Rice University and the University of North Texas suggests that physical similarity is not the dominant rule in human mating when it comes to height preferences. Women prefer taller partners mostly for protection and femininity, while men prefer shorter women but not extremely short ones for intimacy purposes.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateFeb 10, 2014

'Anklebot' helps determine ankle stiffness

Researchers used the Anklebot robot to characterize the normal mechanics of the joint in healthy volunteers, finding that the ankle is strongest when moving up and down and weakest when turning inward. The findings may help clinicians better understand physical limitations caused by strokes and other motor disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateOct 24, 2013

Does putting your feet up equal power?

Researchers found that expansive postures, like standing up and spreading arms, make people feel powerful across cultures. However, some postures that violate cultural norms, such as putting feet on desk, have little effect on individuals from East Asia.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateOct 14, 2013