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Insect Substance Synthesized For Science

An anonymous reader wrote to mention an article discussing the successful synthesis of resilin, a super-elastic material used by insects to perform amazing feats. From the article: "Dr. Elvin predicted the substance would lead to everything from artificial arteries to spinal parts that would not wear out despite being flexed 100 million times. 'That's how many times you move your back in 50 or 60 years,' he said. It could also be used in micro electronics. 'We even imagine putting it in running shoes.'"

3 of 224 comments (clear)

  1. Re:What does by sound+vision · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    You never know, they might start making Resilin Personal Lubricant. I don't know how it feels though, and how it would compare to more popular brands like KY or Remmington. But this product does have a lot of, as you would say "tallywhacker" potential. I prefer to use the word "pecker" though. It makes you sound more distinguished.

  2. We could implant a network in the spinal cord. by Associate · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Imagine a beowolf cluster of those!

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    Someone hates these cans.
  3. A good argument for Environmental Conservation by digitaldc · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    A good argument for environmental conservation is the benefit to all mankind from the undiscovered riches (such as beneficial chemical compounds) of insects and plants. Instead of putting all of our faith and effort into man-made items and products, people should realize that environmental protection and economic growth/development are not mutually-exclusive.

    If you care about the environment, you are smarter than you think.
    See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beneficial_insects

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    He who knows best knows how little he knows. - Thomas Jefferson