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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 8


Page 8 of 240

Cookie cutter in the sky

Researchers found that all active galactic nuclei have a similar physical structure, independent of the black hole's size. The observation constrains current ideas on how glow around black holes is produced, allowing for further study of these enigmatic objects.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 16, 2008

Catch the wave

MIT researchers, led by Chiang Mei, have developed a numerical simulation model that predicts wave forces on devices and motion of the device. The research aims to optimize energy capture and provide data for efficient conversion to electrical energy. The pilot-scale device will be integrated into a new breakwater in Portugal.

Turning over a new leaf for future energy supplies

German scientists suggest biomass as a major source of energy, meeting global demand sustainably and economically. Afforestation on degraded land can produce enough biomass to replace fossil fuels, reducing CO2 emissions.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateDec 15, 2008

Newly discovered esophagus stem cells grow into transplantable tissue, Penn study finds

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified stem cells in the esophagus that can grow into functional tissue. The researchers found that these stem cells can repair damaged tissue and potentially treat conditions like GERD and Barrett's esophagus, a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008

Data mining of inpatient records reveals the disease pattern of obstructive sleep apnea

A study found that OSA peaks between 0-4 years, then rises from 25-29 years to a peak at 55-59 years. Comorbid conditions most frequently appearing with OSA in adults are essential hypertension, obesity, and respiratory diseases. The data mining technique revealed the full clinical picture of comorbid conditions associated with OSA.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

Building better bones and tissue in the lab

The University of Western Ontario has received $45.5 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to develop new methods for growing stronger lab-grown bones and tissue. This will help address conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries, where current lab-grown materials lack sufficient strength.

New tool could unpick complex cancer causes and help sociologists mine Facebook

Researchers have developed a new tool using graphical models to analyze complex systems, which can help uncover the underlying causes of cancer and enable sociologists to extract valuable insights from social media data. The 'Informative Priors' method incorporates current knowledge into mathematical analysis, providing more accurate r...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2008

Black college students get better grades with white roommate

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that African American students who live with white roommates experience a 0.30-point increase in their GPA, compared to those living with same-race roommates. This suggests that interracial roommate relationships can have a positive impact on minority students' academic success.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGroup Processes & Intergroup Relations·DateDec 15, 2008