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How tiny organisms make a big impact on clean water

A new study reveals that microscopic suspension feeders overcome physical constraints by changing their angle relative to surfaces, maximizing access to fresh water and filtering the surrounding water. These tiny organisms filter up to 25% of seawater daily, making them essential for aquatic ecosystems.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 15, 2013

Clues to foam formation could help find oil

Rice University scientists have discovered two novel mechanisms for bubble formation in foam, known as pinch-off behaviors. This discovery could improve the efficiency of enhanced oil recovery methods by making gas act more like a liquid and increasing its contact with reservoir rock.

SourceRice University·JournalSoft Matter·DateOct 8, 2013

From cancer treatment to ion thruster

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed a new type of micro rocket engine using ferrofluids, which could enable efficient propulsion for nanosatellites. The thrusters use electrically sprayed fluid to produce thrust, with the ferrofluid forming a stationary pattern of sharp tips that can spray jets of fluid.

Comprehensive Parkinson's biomarker test has prognostic and diagnostic value

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a comprehensive test for protein biomarkers in spinal fluid that shows prognostic and diagnostic value in early stages of Parkinson's disease. The study found that patients with lower levels of tau and alpha synuclein had greater motor dysfunction, while th...

Brain network decay detected in early Alzheimer's

A study published in JAMA Neurology reveals that disruptions in brain networks emerge simultaneously with chemical markers of early Alzheimer's disease. The research provides an effective and less invasive way to detect early disease, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 19, 2013

High-angle helix helps bacteria swim

Researchers from Brown University and the University of Wisconsin discovered that a high-angle helix enables bacteria to swim faster in viscoelastic fluids, clearing up previously conflicting findings. The study's findings have implications for understanding bacterial infection and fertility.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 13, 2013

The protein profile of restless leg syndrome

A study published in Fluids and Barriers of the CNS found a significantly altered level of six specific proteins in people with restless leg syndrome (RLS), consistent with iron deficiency, dopamine dysregulation, and inflammation. The discovery could lead to new treatments for RLS and its associated cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFluids and Barriers of the CNS·DateJun 6, 2013

Microgels' behavior under scrutiny

Researchers explored the flow of a polymer microgel in confined microchannels, finding its behavior is influenced by neighboring forces. The study challenges existing theories on fluid and solid states, revealing complex interactions between local and dynamic forces.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateApr 30, 2013

How do bacteria clog medical devices? Very quickly

Researchers at Princeton University found that bacteria can clog medical devices like stents in a short period of time by forming sticky biofilms. The study used controlled environments with rough surfaces and pressure-driven fluid, demonstrating the need for real-world conditions to understand device failures.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2013

Not just cars, but living organisms need antifreeze to survive

Researchers have discovered that antifreeze proteins in plants and animals prevent frost damage by coating and protecting ice crystals. The study, published in PNAS, used microfluidic devices to observe the binding of AFPs to ice, revealing a strong and irreversible interaction that prevents ice growth even without protein presence.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2013

Blood is thicker than water -- and blood plasma is, too

Researchers at Saarland University and the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that blood plasma is a non-Newtonian fluid that forms threads and exhibits viscoelastic properties, influencing blood flow into narrow capillaries. This study may improve computer simulations of vascular pathological processes.

SourceSaarland University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 18, 2013

The dance of quantum tornadoes

Researchers at University of Cambridge create hundreds of tiny twisters on chip using quantum mechanics, controlling electron movement and light interaction to form 'polariton'. This enables precise measurement of motion and surface irregularities with sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2012

Sound bullets in water

Scientists develop a device that can form and control sound bullets in water, with potential uses for underwater imaging and biomedical applications. The device, inspired by Newton's cradle, focuses high-amplitude pressure pulses into compact sound bullets that can be tightly focused on a target area.