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Finding the hidden zombie in your network

Researchers developed a lightweight detection system using the hidden semi-Markov model to identify malware-infected computers. The approach can model normal behavior and highlight deviations caused by malware, making it easier to detect botnets in real-time.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics·DateFeb 4, 2014

Understanding hearing

Researchers at TUM developed a computer model of acoustic coding in the inner ear and neuronal information processing by the brain stem, allowing for improved coding strategies and faster testing of new devices. This advancement has the potential to significantly reduce development cycles and provide better hearing outcomes for patients.

Virginia Tech researchers publish study on jellyfish energy consumption that will improve bio-inspired robotic designs for Navy

Researchers discovered how jellyfish move with lowest cost of transport, using a critical pause between contraction and expansion to create a vortex that propels them forward. This feat allows the creature to travel 30% farther each stroke cycle, reducing metabolic energy demand by swimming muscles.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2013

Study shows feral cat control could benefit from different approach

A new study by Tufts University suggests that vasectomy may be more effective than traditional neutering in managing feral cat populations, as it prevents reproductive hormones from protecting turf from competitors. The research supports the use of a trap-vasectomy-hysterectomy-release method to control feral cat colonies.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateAug 15, 2013

New model to improve vehicle-to-vehicle communication for 'intelligent transportation'

A new model has been developed to improve the clarity of vehicle-to-vehicle transmissions needed for 'intelligent transportation'. The model accounts for motion-induced signal distortion, reducing errors in data transmission. This innovation has the potential to provide real-time warnings and improve road safety

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications·DateJul 16, 2013

Virtual vehicle vibrations

A UI researcher has developed a computer program that can accurately predict the effect of role posture on bone and muscle stress in the head and neck during whole-body vibration. The model may reduce the need for human subjects in design and testing, benefiting industries such as automotive and heavy machinery manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateFeb 11, 2013

Music in our ears: The science of timbre

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology uses a computer model to accurately mimic how the brain processes musical timbre, allowing for better instrument recognition. The researchers found that wind and percussive instruments tend to be most different from each other, with strings and winds being closer together.

SourcePLOS·DateNov 1, 2012

The cutting edge

Using guillotine-based experiments and computer modeling, researchers at the University of Bristol studied the efficiency of bladed tooth shapes. They found that different shaped teeth are optimized for different types of food, with V-shaped edges being similar to those found in sharks and carnivorous mammals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInterface·DateMar 6, 2012

Earth's hot past: Prologue to future climate?

A new study by National Center for Atmospheric Research scientist Jeffrey Kiehl examines the relationship between global temperatures and high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere tens of millions of years ago. The study finds that atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gas may reach levels that existed about 30 million to 100 ...

Simplified clinical tool affects treatment decisions for heart health

A simplified clinical tool has led to the reclassification of millions of Americans into different risk groups, potentially affecting their treatment. The study found that 15% of adults were reclassified, with 10% moving to higher-risk groups and 5% to lower-risk groups, leading to potential over-treatment or under-treatment.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2010