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July 19, 2007
An Odd Duo Make For A Sticky Situation
Did you know Geckos and Mussels are some of the most stickiest animals in the world? One of nature's greatest clingers, geckos have long fascinated scientists with the tiny hairs on their feet, which allow the tropical lizards to scurry up walls and across ceilings. Mussels are renowned for their ability to hold steadfast even in the roughest of waters. By combining the strength properties of the gecko's clinginess with the mussels waterproof stickiness, scientists have invented a next generation adhesive they call "geckel." The new adhesive is super thin, stronger than anything currently in the market and has natural antibacterial properties, perfect for band-aids.
It'll still be a few years before we start using geckel glue so in the meantime, keep that Elmer's handy.
Posted by tranism at 2:49 AM | Permalink
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July 17, 2007
Man's Best Friend Gets A New Paw
The first metallic limb implant was successfully completed in England to a poor pooch name Storm. He lost his paw after it became infected with a vicious tumor. Doctors decided to use a new metal artificially created to mimic bone. This advancement allows skin to grow over the metal creating a seal not possible before. The limb itself is shaped like a scoop, has the strength of metal, and flexibility of plastic, enabling Storm to do all the things he once did.
Storm will be closely monitored since his paw could mean a new class of prosthetics for people. Up until now, metallic prosthetics were only worn over the missing limb.
Give it up to Storm ya'll.
via Spluch
Posted by tranism at 3:43 PM | Permalink
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