National Science Foundation

Unraveling the mathematics behind wiggly worm knots For millennia, humans have used knots for all kinds of reasons — to tie rope, braid hair or weave fabrics. But there are organisms that are better at tying knots and far superior — and faster — at untangling them. Tiny California blackworms… Published May 31, 2023 at 06:48AM Read more at nsf.gov

Searching for ancient bears in an Alaskan cave led to an important human discovery The first people to live in the Americas migrated from Siberia across the Bering Land Bridge more than 20,000 years ago. Some made their way as far south as Tierra del Fuego, at the tip of South America. Others settled in areas much closer to their… Published May 30, 2023 at 10:24AM Read more at nsf.gov

This week with NSF Director Panchanathan This week, NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan received an honorary degree and delivered the keynote address at the University of Vermont's graduation ceremony for the class of 2023. His speech was framed around the letters in "Vermont,” and to each… Published May 26, 2023 at 08:06AM Read more at nsf.gov

Hitchhiker plants inspire improved techniques for reattaching tendon to bone For most people, getting burrs stuck on your clothes during a hike is nothing more than a nuisance, something to pick off and throw out when you get home. But for researchers at the Center for Engineering MechanoBiology, or CEMB, the hooks on these… Published May 24, 2023 at 09:00AM Read more at nsf.gov

NSF Director Panchanathan speaks at University of Vermont commencement and receives honorary degree U.S. National Science Foundation Director Sethuraman Panchanathan delivered the address at the University of Vermont’s 222nd Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 21, 2023. The livestreamed event took place on the University Green and inspired… Published May 23, 2023 at 08:30AM Read more at nsf.gov

Can synthetic polymers replace the body's natural proteins? Most life on Earth is based on polymers of 20 amino acids that have evolved into hundreds of thousands of different, specialized proteins. They catalyze reactions, form backbone and muscle, and generate movement. But is all that variety necessary… Published May 23, 2023 at 07:50AM Read more at nsf.gov

Mind-body connection is built into brain, study suggests Calm body, calm mind, say the practitioners of mindfulness. A new study, partially funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, indicates that the idea of the body and mind being inextricably intertwined is more than just an abstraction. The study… Published May 23, 2023 at 07:50AM Read more at nsf.gov