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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 157


Page 157 of 333

Researchers develop an artificial cerebellum than enables robotic human-like object handling

University of Granada researchers have developed an artificial cerebellum that controls a robotic arm with human-like precision, enabling it to interact with humans safely. The new cerebellar model adapts to corrections and stores sensorial effects, allowing the robot to perform automatic learning and robust control.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalInternational Journal of Neural Systems·DateJul 3, 2012

Rising plasma offers clues to sun storms

A team of researchers, including a Rice astrophysicist, used Doppler measurements to observe loops of plasma flowing up from the sun's surface at high speeds. These findings may help predict solar flares and coronal mass ejections that threaten satellites and power grids.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 3, 2012

First photo of shadow of single atom

A Griffith University research team has successfully photographed the shadow of a single atom for the first time. The achievement is made possible by a super high-resolution microscope that allows the creation of a darker image, enabling its capture. This technology has far-reaching implications for quantum computing and biomicroscopy.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2012

Brazil has laws that protect against “Big Food” and “Big Snack”

Brazil has implemented legislation to shield its traditional food system from the influence of global corporations, aiming to improve public health and preserve cultural heritage. By law, schools must serve minimally processed meals sourced from local farmers, reducing the penetration of Big Food companies in Brazil.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 3, 2012

Risk factors for death identified for children with diarrhea in rural Kenya

A hospital-based surveillance study found that infections with nontyphoidal Salmonella and Shigella increased the risk of death in children hospitalized with diarrhea in rural Kenya. The study highlights the importance of using zinc for diarrhea management, promoting oral rehydration solutions, water sanitation, and hygiene interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 3, 2012

Shrinking leaves point to climate change

Researchers analyzed leaves from herbarium specimens and found a 2mm decrease in leaf width over 127 years. This response highlights the impact of climate change on Australian plant species, with Narrow-leaf Hopbush exhibiting narrower leaves in warmer temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 3, 2012

Pre-industrial emissions still causing temperatures to rise

A climate model reveals that pre-industrial emissions from land use changes account for 9% of the increase in global mean temperature since the industrial revolution. Historical CO2 emissions from China and India, largely driven by population growth, continue to impact the atmosphere and climate today.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 3, 2012

Bees can 'turn back time,' reverse brain aging

Researchers discovered that older honey bees effectively reverse brain aging when they take on nest responsibilities typically handled by younger bees. The study found changes in molecular structure of their brains, including the presence of proteins that can help protect against dementia.

SourceArizona State University·JournalExperimental Gerontology·DateJul 3, 2012

Exposure to violence has long-term stress effects among adolescents

A study by Penn State researchers has found that exposure to violence among adolescents can have lasting physical stress response effects up to a year after the exposure. Cortisol levels were found to be lower in males with higher exposure to violence, suggesting an evolutionary adaptation to suppress cortisol levels.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 3, 2012

$1.6 million for sustainability

Concordia University has been awarded $1.6 million by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada to support research and training in sustainable development. The funding will be used to train approximately 20 students per year in renewable energy production and water optimization.

An entire army sacrificed in a bog

Archaeologists are uncovering the secrets of a mass sacrifice of over 200 warriors in a bog near Alken, Denmark. The dig aims to clarify the circumstances behind the ritual sacrifice and analyze the remains to shed light on the Iron Age culture.

2 species fused to give rise to plant pest

Scientists discovered that a widespread plant pest arose from the fusion of two unknown parent species just a few hundred years ago. The study reveals new insights into fungal evolution, showing that hybridization can lead to rapid speciation in plants and fungi.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2012