Molecule found that inhibits the spread of the cold sore virus

Researchers have developed a molecule that effectively inhibits an enzyme instrumental in spreading the herpes simplex virus in humans. They say their discovery could lead to a new treatment for herpes simplex infections and other viruses, as well as d… Continue reading Molecule found that inhibits the spread of the cold sore virus

Lung immune cells “trained” to remove debris that causes inflammation

Researchers have discovered that lung-based immune cells can be “trained” to remember a previously encountered pathogen, making them more efficient at clearing out the cellular debris that accumulates during infection and reducing inflammation.Continue… Continue reading Lung immune cells “trained” to remove debris that causes inflammation

Power plant condenser coating could cut 460 million tons of CO2 per year

Weaning the world off fossil fuels will take some time, so finding ways to make energy generation more efficient is still important. Scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a new coating for steam condenser pipes that, … Continue reading Power plant condenser coating could cut 460 million tons of CO2 per year

“Demon particle” accidentally discovered, solving 67-year mystery

While studying a material that could help unlock the secrets of superconductors, scientists have accidentally discovered a “demon” particle that was first theorized almost 70 years ago, but had never been experimentally confirmed.Continue ReadingCatego… Continue reading “Demon particle” accidentally discovered, solving 67-year mystery

Sunlight polarization patterns may be an underwater substitute for GPS

While GPS can be used to determine one’s geographical coordinates on land, such is not the case underwater. Scientists have developed a possible alternative, however, in the form of a system that analyzes the manner in which sunlight is polarized by wa… Continue reading Sunlight polarization patterns may be an underwater substitute for GPS

Bug-inspired coating could make for better bone and joint implants

Inspired by the wings of dragonflies and cicadas, researchers have developed a new coating for orthopedic implants. It not only shreds harmful bacteria, but also monitors stress on the system, meaning it could warn of impending implant failure.Continue… Continue reading Bug-inspired coating could make for better bone and joint implants

3D-printed heads talk, swivel, and listen to improve audio devices

A team of researchers has created a way to inexpensively manufacture acoustic head simulators. They can help measure the way we take in and process sound – especially in noisy environments like cocktail parties.Continue ReadingCategory: TechnologyTags:… Continue reading 3D-printed heads talk, swivel, and listen to improve audio devices

Lab tested: Vegan dog foods get the paw shake of approval

As the perception of plant-based diets slowly shifts away from the image of a lettuce leaf on a plate, it’s no surprise to find that the popularity of this style of eating is now crossing over into meals for our canine companions.Continue ReadingCatego… Continue reading Lab tested: Vegan dog foods get the paw shake of approval

Tiny robots copy the click beetle to jump over obstacles

If a robot is going to be tiny, then it better have a way of getting around the many obstacles that will block its way. A new type of robot takes a unique approach to doing so, by jumping like a click beetle.Continue ReadingCategory: Robotics, Technolo… Continue reading Tiny robots copy the click beetle to jump over obstacles

Tiny eBiobots use LEDs and muscle tissue for real-time remote control

Back in 2012, we heard about tiny biped “biobot” robots that used actual muscle tissue to walk. Well, the descendants of those bots are now equipped with LEDs, which allow them to be remotely steered in a practical fashion.Continue ReadingCategory: Rob… Continue reading Tiny eBiobots use LEDs and muscle tissue for real-time remote control