"Talking" helps computer programs develop better hunting strategies
Autonomous agents improved performance by communicating via message board, outperforming previous studies and human-programmed strategies
Science News for February 1, 2001
Problem drinking may affect adherence to HIV medication
A recent study found that problem drinkers with HIV are more likely to take their medications off schedule, highlighting the importance of screening for alcohol problems among persons with HIV infection. Nearly half of problem drinkers reported taking medication off schedule during the previous week.
Legumes found to contain starch carrying a fiber-like punch
A new study reveals that legumes, such as beans, lentils, and peas, are rich in dietary fiber and resistant starch, which can help prevent cancer. Legumes contain substantially higher percentages of both nutrients compared to cereal grains and heavily processed flours.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateFeb 1, 2001
Vinegar plus HPV test identifies women at risk for cervical cancer
A new test combining a vinegar solution with an HPV test accurately detects precancerous lesions and reduces false positives among African women, potentially saving thousands of lives. The test could be easily administered at home or in clinics, making it a game-changer for cervical cancer screening in developing countries.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateFeb 1, 2001
Bedroom partners more honest when it comes to health risks
Research by Sunyna Williams found that people are more honest about health risks when in relationships, but less so about matters of the heart. Couples tend to dispense with precautions like condoms too quickly, especially during closer relationship stages.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateFeb 1, 2001
People get more ‘top’ news in print than by computer, study shows
Researchers found that college students reading the New York Times online were less likely to read national, international, and political news compared to their paper-reading counterparts. This resulted in significant differences in readers' knowledge about public affairs.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·DateFeb 1, 2001
Touching effects: Visiting plants in the field may alter their future
Researchers discovered that touching plants can affect insect feeding behavior, with some species experiencing increased leaf area loss and death when visited. The study suggests that future ecological studies should consider the potential effects of researcher interactions on plant biology.
Fiber-optic sensors detect damaged rails and faulty wheels
Researchers developed fiber-optic sensors to detect flaws in rails and wheels, improving train safety by pinpointing location, speed, and damage. The palm-sized sensors offer a fast and cost-effective method to detect deformities in rail-car wheels, reducing the risk of derailment.
New superconducting magnet to probe proton structure
A new superconducting magnet is being tested at the University of Illinois to enable precise measurements of the proton's magnetic moment and small-scale structures. The experiment, called G0, will use polarized electrons to scatter off liquid hydrogen and deuterium targets in the magnet.
Chandra observations reveal X-ray glint in Cat’s Eye Nebula
Astronomers using the Chandra X-ray Observatory discovered a complex shape of the Cat's Eye Nebula, which is driven by hot gas. The team also found an unexpected X-ray source at the central star, sparking questions about its formation.
Established ecological relationship is flawed says new study
A new study by Imperial College scientists found that the power law used to determine the relationship between plant species and land area is not scale-invariant. Species richness accumulated rapidly at intermediate scales, rather than being constant as previously believed. This finding has significant implications for conservation stu...
Medical imaging with ‘Swiss Rolls’
Researchers at Imperial College London developed a novel magnetic material dubbed 'Swiss Rolls' that guides radio-frequency magnetic flux in MRI scanners, producing undistorted images. The material's periodic array of structures helps direct magnetic flux from the body to receiver coils with minimal leakage.
Area of brain found to play key role in initiating memory storage
A new study reveals that the amygdala plays a pivotal role in initiating memory storage by deciding which experiences are important enough to store based on emotional significance. The research uses male rabbits and temporarily disables the amygdala, leading to a breakdown of learning-related changes in other brain regions.