ScienceDaily Technology Headlines
for Monday, September 20, 2010
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50-million-year-old snake gets a CT scan (September 20, 2010) -- Even some of the most advanced technology in medicine couldn't get Clarisse to give up all of her secrets. After all, she's protected them for more than 50 million years. Clarisse is a snake, found in the Fossil Butte region of Wyoming, perfectly fossilized in limestone and the only one of her kind known to be in existence. ... > full story
At the crossroads of chromosomes: Study reveals structure of cell division’s key molecule (September 20, 2010) -- On average, one hundred billion cells in the human body divide over the course of a day. Most of the time the body gets it right but sometimes, problems in cell replication can lead to abnormalities in chromosomes resulting in many types of disorders, from cancer to Down Syndrome. Now, researchers have defined the structure of a key molecule that plays a central role in how DNA is duplicated and then moved correctly and equally into two daughter cells to produce two exact copies of the mother cell. Without this molecule, entire chromosomes could be lost during cell division. ... > full story
Chemists discover method to create high-value chemicals from biomass (September 20, 2010) -- Chemist Walter Trahanovsky was trying to produce sugar derivatives from biomass using high-temperature chemistry. He was surprised when his research also produced significant yields of high-value chemicals. ... > full story
Environmental impact of organic solar cells assessed (September 20, 2010) -- To better understand the energy and environmental benefits and detriments of solar power, a research team has conducted one of the first life-cycle assessments of organic solar cells. The study found that the embodied energy -- or the total energy required to make a product -- is less for organic solar cells compared with conventional inorganic devices. ... > full story
Emotional robot pets (September 20, 2010) -- Designers of robot pets are fighting a never-ending battle with consumers to provide entertaining and realistic gadgets that respond to human interaction in ever more nuanced ways, mimicking the behavior of real pet animals or even people. Researchers in Taiwan are now looking at a new design paradigm that could see the development of a robot vision module that might one-day recognize human facial expressions and respond appropriately. ... > full story
Cosmic ice sculptures: Dust pillars in the Carina Nebula (September 19, 2010) -- Enjoying a frozen treat on a hot summer day can leave a sticky mess as it melts in the Sun and deforms. In the cold vacuum of space, there is no edible ice cream, but there is radiation from massive stars that is carving away at cold molecular clouds, creating bizarre, fantasy-like structures. ... > full story
'Nanosprings' offer improved performance in biomedicine, electronics (September 19, 2010) -- Researchers have reported the successful loading of biological molecules onto "nanosprings" -- a type of nanostructure that has gained significant interest in recent years for its ability to maximize surface area in microreactors. ... > full story
Quantum tornado in the electron beam: Manipulating materials with rotating quantum particles (September 18, 2010) -- Researchers have succeeded in producing what are known as electron vortex beams: rotating electron beams, which make it possible to investigate the magnetic properties of materials. In the future, it may even be possible to manipulate the tiniest components in a targeted manner and set them in rotation. ... > full story
Synthetic fuels research aims to reduce oil dependence (September 18, 2010) -- Researchers have developed a facility aimed at learning precisely how coal and biomass are broken down in reactors called gasifiers as part of a project to strengthen the scientific foundations of the synthetic fuel economy. ... > full story
Fish schools and krill swarms take on common shape (September 18, 2010) -- When fish or tiny, shrimp-like krill get together, it appears they follow the same set of "rules." According to a new study, shoals of fish and swarms of krill hang out in groups that take on the same overall shape; it's not a simple sphere, a cylinder, or ovoid, but something more akin to an irregular crystal, the researchers say. ... > full story
Radiometric dating still reliable (again), research shows (September 18, 2010) -- Recent puzzling observations of tiny variations in nuclear decay rates have led some to question the science behind carbon-14 dating and similar techniques. However scientists tested the hypothesis that solar radiation might affect the rate at which radioactive elements decay and found no detectable effect. ... > full story
Physicists cross hurdle in quantum manipulation of matter (September 17, 2010) -- Finding ways to control matter at the level of single atoms and electrons fascinates many scientists and engineers because the ability to manipulate single charges and single magnetic moments (spins) may help researchers penetrate deep into the mysteries of quantum mechanics and modern solid-state physics. It may also allow development of new, highly sensitive magnetometers with nanometer resolution, single-spin transistors for coherent spintronics, and solid-state devices for quantum information processing. ... > full story
Pickle spoilage bacteria may help environment (September 17, 2010) -- Spoilage bacteria that can cause red coloration of pickles' skin during fermentation may actually help clean up dyes in textile industry wastewater, according to a new study. ... > full story
Less is more in the fight against terrorism (September 17, 2010) -- Terrorist networks are complex. Now, a mathematical analysis of their properties suggests that the best way to fight them is to isolate the hubs within the network rather than trying to destroy the network as a whole through short-term battles. ... > full story
New insights into the moon's rich geologic complexity (September 17, 2010) -- The moon is more geologically complex than previously thought, scientists report. Their conclusion is based on data from the Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment aboard NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, an unmanned mission to comprehensively map the entire moon. ... > full story
Moon's craters give new clues to early solar system bombardment (September 17, 2010) -- A first-ever uniform, comprehensive catalog of large craters on the Moon is providing new clues to the bombardment history that characterized the chaotic early days of the inner solar system. Researchers have identified and mapped more than 5,000 large craters, established the oldest regions on the moon, and confirmed a theory about past solar system bombardment. ... > full story
Cardiac imaging breakthrough developed (September 17, 2010) -- Cardiologists and surgeons may soon have a new tool to improve outcomes for patients requiring pacemakers, bypass surgery or angioplasties. Imaging research has led to a new process which provides a high resolution, 3-D image of the heart revealing not only its vasculature but also any scar tissue. ... > full story
Fungus among us could become non-food source for biodiesel production (September 17, 2010) -- In the quest for alternatives to soybeans, palm, and other edible oilseed plants as sources for biodiesel production, enter an unlikely new candidate: A fungus, or mold, that produces and socks away large amounts of oils that are suitable for low-cost, eco-friendly biodiesel. ... > full story
Hot water in cold comets: Water around comets produced with unusual properties (September 17, 2010) -- Comets, sometimes called “dirty snowballs”, are largely composed of water. An international research team recently succeeded in deciphering an important aspect of the way in which water molecules often form in space. As a surprise, the water molecules produced under cold, dilute conditions turned out to be produced as particles as hot as 60,000 Kelvin. In their research the physicists, though, did not use a telescope, but a particle accelerator. ... > full story
Strictly high heels: Researchers look at impact of high-heeled Latin dancing (September 17, 2010) -- With ballroom dancing once again on our screens, all eyes are on the sequins and steps. Well, not quite all eyes. British and Chinese scientists are more interested in the height of the ladies' high heels rather than the torsos and twists and have a few strict words on health and safety for professional dancers. ... > full story
Surprisingly complicated molecule found in outer space (September 17, 2010) -- In interstellar clouds of extremely small density scientists have managed to find a molecule that has an unexpectedly complicated structure. The discovery will force a change in the way of thinking about chemical processes occurring in the apparently empty areas of the galaxy. ... > full story
Optical chip enables new approach to quantum computing (September 17, 2010) -- Scientists have developed a new approach to quantum computing that could soon be used to perform complex calculations that cannot be done by today's computers. ... > full story
Shape-shifting robot plane offers safer alternative for maritime rescue (September 16, 2010) -- Use of morphing flight control surfaces has enabled the development of a cost effective unmanned air-sea rescue plane that can operate in extreme weather conditions despite its light weight and small size. State-of-the-art avionics and cameras onboard the seaplane ensure a smooth flight for extended rescue and surveillance missions, while reducing risks to material and crews. ... > full story
3-D computer simulations help envision supernovae explosions (September 16, 2010) -- For a brief burst of time, supernovae can radiate more energy than the sun will emit in its lifetime. Now, scientists have found a way to make computer simulations of supernovae exploding in three dimensions, which may lead to new scientific insights. ... > full story
How bacteria acquire immunity: First theoretical description of bacterial system to silence viral genes (September 16, 2010) -- In a new study, scientists have brought the latest tools of computational biology to bear in examining how the processes of natural selection and evolution influence the way bacteria acquire immunity from disease. The study builds upon one of the major discoveries made possible by molecular genetics in the past decade -- the revelation that bacteria and similar single-celled organisms have an acquired immune system. ... > full story
Home's electrical wiring acts as antenna to receive low-power sensor data (September 16, 2010) -- Using a home's electrical wiring as a giant copper antenna allows for wireless sensors that can communicate over a whole house and run for decades on a single watch battery. The device could be used for low-cost medical monitoring or home sensing systems. ... > full story
Discovery of the secrets that enable plants near Chernobyl to shrug off radiation (September 16, 2010) -- Scientists are reporting discovery of the biological secrets that enable plants growing near the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant to adapt and flourish in highly radioactive soil -- legacy of the 1986 nuclear disaster in the Ukraine. Their study helps solve a long-standing mystery. ... > full story
NASA's lunar spacecraft completes exploration mission phase (September 16, 2010) -- NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, or LRO, completes the exploration phase of its mission on Sept. 16, after a number of successes that transformed our understanding of Earth's nearest neighbor. LRO completed a one-year exploration mission in a polar orbit approximately 31 miles above the moon's surface. It produced a comprehensive map of the lunar surface in unprecedented detail; searched for resources and safe landing sites for potential future missions to the moon; and measured lunar temperatures and radiation levels. ... > full story
Planck's first glimpse at galaxy clusters uncovers a new supercluster (September 16, 2010) -- Surveying the microwave sky, Planck has obtained its very first images of galaxy clusters, amongst the largest objects in the Universe, by means of the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect, a characteristic signature they imprint on the Cosmic Microwave Background. Joining forces in a fruitful collaboration between ESA missions, XMM-Newton followed up Planck's detections and revealed that one of them is a previously unknown supercluster of galaxies. ... > full story
New supercomputer 'sees' well enough to drive a car someday (September 16, 2010) -- Visually interpreting our environment as quickly as we do is an astonishing feat requiring an enormous number of computations -- which is just one reason that coming up with a computer-driven system that can mimic the human brain in visually recognizing objects has proven so difficult. Now a supercomputer based on the human visual system has been developed, operating much more quickly and efficiently than ever before. ... > full story
Facial recognition technology aimed at spotting terrorists (September 16, 2010) -- Rapid improvements in facial-recognition software mean airport security workers might one day know with near certainty whether they're looking at a stressed-out tourist or staring a terrorist in the eye. Researchers are evaluating how well these rapidly evolving recognition programs work. The researchers are comparing the rates of success for the software to the rates for non-technological, but presumably "expert" human evaluation. ... > full story
Low carbon hemp house put to the test (September 16, 2010) -- A consortium in the UK has constructed a small building on a university campus out of hemp-lime to test its properties as a building material. Called the "HemPod", this one-storey building has highly insulating walls made from the chopped woody core, or shiv, of the industrial hemp plant mixed with a specially developed lime-based binder. ... > full story
Carbon nanotubes twice as strong as once thought (September 16, 2010) -- Carbon nanotubes -- those tiny particles poised to revolutionize electronics, medicine, and other areas -- are much bigger in the strength department than anyone ever thought, scientists are reporting. New studies on the strength of these submicroscopic cylinders of carbon indicate that on an ounce-for-ounce basis they are at least 117 times stronger than steel and 30 times stronger than Kevlar, the material used in bulletproof vests and other products. The findings appear in the monthly journal ACS Nano. ... > full story
New wave: Spin soliton could be a hit in cell phone communication (September 16, 2010) -- Researchers have found theoretical evidence of a new way to generate the high-frequency waves used in modern communication devices such as cell phones using exotic "soliton" waves in magnetism. The technique might enable wireless technology that would be more secure and resistant to interference than conventional devices. ... > full story
Electron switch between molecules points way to new high-powered organic batteries (September 16, 2010) -- The development of new organic batteries -- lightweight energy storage devices that work without the need for toxic heavy metals -- has a brighter future now that chemists have discovered a new way to pass electrons back and forth between two molecules. ... > full story
Neutrons helping researchers unlock secrets to cheaper ethanol (September 15, 2010) -- New insight into the structure of switchgrass and poplars is fueling discussions that could result in more efficient methods to turn biomass into biofuel. ... > full story
Tiny MAVs may someday explore and detect environmental hazards (September 15, 2010) -- Researchers are developing what could become the next phase of high-performance micro air vehicles for the Air Force. The research is on track to evolve into robotic, insect-scale devices for monitoring and exploration of hazardous environments, such as collapsed structures, caves and chemical spills. ... > full story
Simpler mathematical model for reproducing bacterial growth patterns developed (September 15, 2010) -- The expansion of bacterial colonies is one of the classic research areas in biology. Researchers now consider a new model that uses two parameters to reproduce the growth patterns of these microorganisms. ... > full story
Hydroelectric power reservoirs cleaner than previously feared, new research shows (September 15, 2010) -- A new report is helping to remove the dirty image attributed to climate gas emissions from hydroelectric power reservoirs. ... > full story
Scientists reveal battery behavior at the nanoscale (September 15, 2010) -- As industries and consumers increasingly seek improved battery power sources, cutting-edge microscopy is providing an unprecedented perspective on how lithium-ion batteries function. A research team has developed a new type of scanning probe microscopy called electrochemical strain microscopy (ESM) to examine the movement of lithium ions through a battery's cathode material. ... > full story
Implant blood test: Shape memory alloys are biocompatible, new research shows (September 15, 2010) -- A European team has demonstrated that modern technological materials used in a wide range of medical devices and implants are entirely biocompatible and should not health problems as has previously been suggested. ... > full story
Computer in wrapping-paper form give solar cells a makeover (September 15, 2010) -- Investigators in New York are giving factory production of solar energy cells a modern makeover. Their new approach includes the use of "continuous electronic sheets," something like a computer flattened into wrapping paper. ... > full story
New microfluidic chip for discriminating bacteria (September 15, 2010) -- A new "on-chip" method for sorting and identifying bacteria has been created by biomedical engineers. The discovery may lead to portable devices that could be used for analyzing bacteria-infected blood, finding the causes of urethral irritation, and for screening raw milk and other foods. ... > full story
Bone-anchored leg prostheses improve quality of life, Swedish study finds (September 15, 2010) -- A new study from Sweden shows the results of treatment using prostheses attached to titanium implants in the bones of patients with above-the-knee amputations. It reveals that the treatment improves function and quality of life in nine out of ten patients. ... > full story
ARTEMIS: First Earth-Moon libration orbiter (September 15, 2010) -- In August 1960, NASA launched its first communications satellite, Echo 1. Fifty years later, NASA has achieved another first by placing the ARTEMIS-P1 spacecraft into a unique orbit behind the moon, but not actually orbiting the moon itself. This type of orbit, called an Earth-Moon libration orbit, relies on a precise balancing of the Sun, Earth, and Moon gravity so that a spacecraft can orbit about a virtual location rather than about a planet or moon. The diagrams below show the full ARTEMIS-P1 orbit as it flies in proximity to the moon. ... > full story
How do your crystals grow? (September 15, 2010) -- New research uses fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to investigate the processes at the surface of a growing crystal. This work may help to improve the crystallization of biomolecules -- an important tool in pharmaceutical research and other fields. ... > full story
Smart grid cyber security: Initial set of guidelines finalized (September 15, 2010) -- The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology has issued its first Guidelines for Smart Grid Cyber Security, including high-level security requirements, a framework for assessing risks, an evaluation of privacy issues at personal residences, and additional information for crafting strategies to protect the modernizing power grid from attacks, malicious code, cascading errors and other threats. ... > full story
New Global Standards Information website experience puts product standards on the map (September 15, 2010) -- Those looking for the latest product standards-related news, regulatory developments, events and workshops around the world now can turn to the new Global Standards Information (GSI) website. ... > full story
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