Articles tagged with Hair
Researchers developed a new synthetic adhesive that mimics gecko toe hairs, allowing for directional adhesion on smooth surfaces. The adhesive is made from hard plastic microfibers that become stronger with use and can detach without residue.
Researchers propose that carrying heavy infants safely on two legs may have driven the emergence of bipedalism. The study found a relationship between infant weight, hair friction and body angle that prevents safe carrying.
Scientists discovered that at least one percent of Neanderthals in Europe had red hair, a finding based on genetic analysis. This rare trait was linked to the mc1r gene mutation, causing lighter skin and more freckles.
Scientists found that at least 1% of Neanderthals were likely redheads due to a point mutation in the MC1R gene. The discovery suggests that Neanderthals' pigmentation may be as varied as modern humans', with implications for understanding the evolution of human traits.
Researchers analyzed hair samples from child mummies found in the Andes, revealing a 'fattening up' process before sacrifice. The children were likely chosen from peasant backgrounds and had their status raised through diet changes and symbolic cutting of their hair.
A new DNA method developed at the University of Copenhagen uses hair samples to answer questions about human history, such as why mammoths died out. The technique also holds promise for forensic analysis in crime solving, providing faster results than traditional methods.
A novel method for sequencing ancient DNA has been developed using the Genome Sequencer FLX system, enabling researchers to study extinct animals with unprecedented accuracy. The technique involves extracting DNA from hair shafts, which are more undamaged and uncontaminated than traditional samples.
Researchers from Penn State University and Copenhagen discovered that hair shafts can preserve ancient DNA, allowing for the sequencing of entire mitochondrial genomes from 10 individual woolly mammoths. This breakthrough enables efficient analysis of genetic material from extinct species.
Interactions between ozone and body oils can lead to the formation of chemical byproducts that worsen nasal irritation, headaches, and other air traveler complaints. The study suggests simple steps like installing ozone-destroying catalysts can help reduce these byproducts in aircraft and buildings.
Scientists at CSIRO Australia are exploring the use of a new synchrotron to detect biochemical changes in Tasmanian devil hair that could indicate facial tumour disease. This could lead to the development of an early detection test, making quarantine strategies more efficient and effective.
Researchers have designed a hybrid material that combines the dry adhesive properties of geckos with the underwater adhesive properties of mussels, producing a synthetic material that adheres well under both wet and dry conditions. The geckel nanoadhesive showed improved adherence compared to previous gecko-based synthetic adhesives.
Researchers found no association between hair relaxer use and increased breast cancer incidence among African American women. The study, which followed over 59,000 women from 1997 to 2003, provides empirical evidence that hair relaxers are not carcinogenic to the breast.
Researchers from Boston University and Howard University Cancer Center found no association between hair relaxer use and increased breast cancer risk among 48,167 African-American women. The study's lead investigator notes that hair relaxers are not a cause of breast cancer, contradicting previous speculation.
Researchers discovered a new cell type in pythons that degrades bone, allowing for efficient calcium absorption from prey.
Scientists at Virginia Tech have developed a new family of charged, rod-like block copolymers that can self-assemble and form stable structures similar to DNA. These unique polymers could have potential applications in drug delivery and gene delivery systems.
Drinking spearmint tea can reduce androgen levels in women with hirsutism. A recent study found that consuming two cups of spearmint tea daily for five days lowered androgen levels in women with mild symptoms.
Researchers found that whites who avoid using race in social interactions tend to exhibit less friendly nonverbal behaviors, such as reduced eye contact. This study suggests that attempting to appear colorblind may have unintended results and actually lead to perceived distance and unfriendliness.
NASA Goddard's carbon nanotubes are stronger than steel and can conduct electricity like copper, with applications in materials science, electronics, and medicine. The technology has been licensed to Idaho Space Materials, making it more accessible for research and development.
A chemical-free device invented by University of Utah biologists eradicates head lice infestations on children by killing eggs and lice, a promising cure for the condition. The LouseBuster uses hot air to dry out lice and nits, making it an effective alternative to traditional chemical treatments.
A new study at Ohio University sheds light on the structural materials that form the horn's characteristic shape, explaining its curved tip. The team discovered dark patches made of calcium and melanin in the middle, which harden the core and protect it from sun damage.
A study analyzing hair samples from over 8,000 individuals found that babies can be exposed to crystal meth in the womb, with wide-ranging levels detected in both mothers' and newborns' hair. The findings suggest restricted fetal growth and developmental problems, highlighting the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
A team of researchers used a sophisticated laser system to gain evidence that neuromelanin, a dark brown pigment accumulating in brains, consists of layers of two other pigments: eumelanin and pheomelanin. This structural arrangement may play a critical role in the neurodegenerative cascade behind Parkinson's disease.
A team of researchers at UC Berkeley created synthetic micro-fibers inspired by geckos' remarkable hairs, which can hold a quarter to a glass slide inclined at an 80-degree angle. The fibers have high friction but low adhesion, making them suitable for applications such as shoe soles and car tires.
A new method for rendering realistic hair in computer animation has been developed by Cornell researchers, allowing for more accurate simulations of light scattering and diffusion. This breakthrough reduces computation time by 87.5%, enabling the creation of more realistic blond and light-colored hairstyles.
Women are taking control of their feminine health, but many remain embarrassed about discussing sensitive topics. The survey found that one in four women admit to not being honest with their gynecologists about their habits, with specific issues including smoking and exercise.
A study found that combining finasteride with an oral contraceptive improved female pattern hair loss in 62% of patients. Hair density scores increased in 12 patients, and all participants reported no adverse reactions to the treatment.
A small team of researchers from Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory developed a novel radiator using MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, which can regulate the temperature of a satellite or one of its instruments. The device is designed to control emissivity and maintain constant temperatures in space.
Researchers found that well-dressed and groomed women received friendlier service, while appearance had a limited impact on greeting times. The study suggests that assumptions about customers' spending power drive salesclerks' behavior.
Researchers analyzed chemicals in elephant tail hair to determine their diet and movements, revealing the need for secure habitats to protect endangered species. The study aims to inform land use planning and minimize conflicts between humans and elephants.
Researchers found that bats with functioning touch-sensitive receptors on their wings can fly more accurately and snag their prey in midair. The study also reveals the importance of Merkel cells, specialized 'touch' cells common in human skin, which help bats detect airflow across their wings.
Geckos' hairy feet exhibit an extreme adhesive ability due to a 'dry' system that uses water. The researchers found that increased air humidity strengthens the capillary forces between spatulae and substrates, enabling geckos to stick better on wet ceilings.
Penn State researchers have designed and fabricated tiny piezoelectric microactuators with controlled force, high resolution, and large displacements. The new actuators have dimensions ranging from 350 to 600 microns in length, 50 to 100 microns in width, and 5 to 6 microns in thickness.
Researchers used advanced techniques to study human hair and found that conditioners don't evenly cover the entire hair shaft, leading to frizz. A new conditioner formula has been developed with additives to improve even coverage, and similar techniques could be applied to beauty products like lipstick and nail polish.
Researchers discovered that otter underhairs are uniquely adapted to provide thermal insulation, with wedge-shaped fins fitting into grooves between adjacent hairs. This structure allows air bubbles to trap heat, while the hairs' coated surface and thin layer of body oil further reduce water absorption.
A study found high concentrations of arsenic in a sample of the King's hair, suggesting exposure to heavy metals may have exacerbated his porphyria attacks. The researchers believe antimonial medications containing arsenic were the probable source of the toxin.
Researchers have developed artificial sensory hair systems inspired by crickets' cerci, which can detect low-frequency sound with high sensitivity and directivity. The artificial hairs are energy-efficient and show potential applications in various fields such as sensor networks and aerodynamics.
The study examined 79 studies from 11 countries to investigate the association between personal hair dye use and cancer risk. The authors found no global effect on breast and bladder cancer, but a borderline effect for hematopoietic cancers like leukemia and multiple myeloma. Further investigation is needed for these high-risk groups.
Researchers at PNNL have developed a new technique to control the deposition of anchor molecules on carbon nanotubes using supercritical fluids, enabling precise control over the level of coating and thickness. This innovation improves the material's utility without compromising its physical properties.
Researchers have discovered evidence of barren ground grizzly bears on Melville Island, a remote area in the western Arctic. The presence of these bears is significant as they are known to prey on polar bear cubs and could potentially disrupt the balance of Arctic ecosystems.
Researchers at Cambridge University have successfully grown nanometer-scale wires into flower-like structures, which can be used as water-repellent coatings and a base for new solar cells. The unique nanostructures are created by controlling the growth process of silicon-carbon materials using liquid metals.
Researchers successfully fabricate intricate, three-dimensional patterns on human hair using a multiphoton-absorption photopolymerization (MAP) technique. This breakthrough opens doors to potential applications in medical research, drug delivery, and miniature biodevices.
Researchers have discovered a molecular force used by spiders to attach themselves to surfaces, which could be the key to creating super-strong adhesive Post-it notes. The van der Waals force is so strong that it allows spiders to carry their own body weight on their feet while standing on ceilings.
A Yale University study found an increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma among women who began using hair-coloring products before 1980, particularly those using darker permanent products for over 25 years. The study suggests that recent changes in hair dye formula contents may have reduced the risk for newer users.
Researchers at NIST quantify the problem and solution of carbon nanotube demixing, revealing flow conditions that can lead to demixing. The findings provide insight into how to process nanotubes more efficiently for various applications.
Researchers found that servers at two restaurants and cab drivers received lower tip percentages for larger bills, but levels off above $100. The magnitude effect shows that relative value is affected by absolute amount, contradicting standard microeconomic theory.
Researchers control the development of stem cells in the inner ears of embryonic chickens by introducing new genes, leading to the growth of balance-related hairs instead of sound-detecting ones. This breakthrough could potentially improve our understanding of inner ear disorders and lead to therapies for deafness and vertigo.
Scientists at the University of California - Berkeley have developed a synthetic motor that is smaller than biological motors and can be controlled externally. The motor uses electrostatic manipulation and has potential applications in optical switching, microwave oscillators, and microfluidic devices.
Researchers found that bacterial polymers, similar to hair, play a crucial role in adhesion. The discovery opens up possibilities for controlling bacterial behavior and improving methods for cleaning groundwater and preventing medical problems.
A new study by McGill University found that redheaded women respond better to a painkilling drug due to a genetic variation in the Mc1r gene. This gene is associated with pigmentation and variants cause red hair and fair skin, leading to a heightened response to kappa-specific analgesics.
The hair dye market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the popularity of permanent dyes that can last up to six weeks. According to recent studies, 42% of American women and 25% of American men use hair dyes, with 37% of consumers using them in the previous year.
The Northwestern SCOR will focus on the role of genes, androgens and intrauterine environment in PCOS. The research aims to elucidate the pathogenesis of PCOS and provide a potential molecular diagnosis for the syndrome.
Methadone treatment is being expanded to office-based practices for patients with addiction, aiming to make it more accessible. Hair analysis has been found to be a significant advance in assessing exposure to antiretroviral therapies and monitoring patient response to indinavir, an anti-HIV drug.
A new study suggests that women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and their siblings with hormone problems have the same gene defect. The study found that approximately 50% of PCOS sisters had elevated androgen levels, while PCOS brothers had significantly elevated DHEAS levels.
A study found that Finnish men with high mercury levels in their hair had a 60% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a 70% increased risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that avoiding regular consumption of old, large predatory fish is key to reducing the risk.
Researchers found a genetic connection between permanent hair dye use and bladder cancer risk, particularly among women with certain slow genes. The study suggests that exposure to hair dyes increases the risk of bladder cancer, likely due to the presence of carcinogenic arylamines.
Researchers have adapted microcilia technology to enable small satellites to quickly and efficiently dock with their mother ships. The system uses pulsating waves of tiny fingers to maneuver objects in any direction, promising a game-changing advancement for future space missions.
Researchers are studying the small hairs on lobsters' antennules to capture odors at high resolution. By understanding how these hairs process information, scientists hope to create more efficient chemical-sensing systems for the Navy.
Researchers at UC Berkeley and Stanford University discovered how lobsters sniff their way around a watery world by flicking antennules into contact with chemosensory hairs sensitive to chemicals. This motion captures detailed maps of swirling odors, suggesting that small differences in odor concentration are preserved.
Researchers at Cornell University's Laboratory of Plasma Studies have developed a new X-pinch imaging technique that produces extremely high-resolution images of minute objects. The technique, which uses powerful electrical currents to create plasma, has been used to image objects as small as house fly hairs and even living ants.
A study from the University of Southern California found that regular use of permanent hair dyes increases the risk of bladder cancer in women. Women who use permanent dyes at least once a month for one year or longer have twice the risk of bladder cancer as non-users, with increased risks observed in frequent users over 15 years.