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Yoga boosts heart health

A study published in International Journal of Medical Engineering and Informatics found that yoga practitioners exhibit higher heart rate variability compared to non-practitioners. This suggests a strengthening of parasympathetic control, indicative of better autonomic function and a healthier heart.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Engineering and Informatics·DateNov 9, 2009

2008 AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award goes to Percy A. Pierre of Michigan State University

Percy A. Pierre, a renowned engineer and educator, has been awarded the 2008 AAAS Mentor Award for Lifetime Achievement for his dedication to increasing the number of African-American and Hispanic-American Ph.D.s in engineering. He has mentored 27 doctoral graduates through the Sloan Engineering Program at Michigan State University.

Titania nanotubes make supersensitive hydrogen sensors

Researchers at Penn State have developed a new type of sensor that can detect hydrogen levels with incredible sensitivity. The titania nanotube sensors are 200 times more sensitive than previously used materials and offer several advantages, including high response rates and minimal interference from other gases.

SourcePenn State·JournalSensors and Actuators·DateJul 29, 2003

Theory can help disable terrorists' messages

Researchers Jody O'Sullivan and Pierre Moulin have developed a theory that sets fundamental limits on the amount of information that can be reliably hidden in various data types. This breakthrough has significant implications for security applications, including detecting forgery and intercepting terrorist messages.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Theory·DateJul 14, 2003

Researchers capture unusual sprite-like blue jet

Researchers have captured an unusual sprite-like blue jet over Puerto Rico, exhibiting characteristics of both blue jets and sprites. The event's unique features include a branching conical shape and hot spots, which are similar to those seen in computer models but not fully explained.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMar 13, 2002

Two scientists make case against ice on the moon

Two Stanford University scientists argue that large amounts of water ice are unlikely on the Moon, suggesting an alternative explanation involving the reaction of lunar dust with hydrogen and oxygen. They propose that the Lunar Prospector crash could produce a plume of water vapor and hydroxyl ions without ice being present.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 1999

Rigs 'n' Space

Researchers are developing a non-destructive testing technique that can detect cracks in materials and welds under extreme conditions. This technology is being adapted for use in space to test the International Space Station and other structures, reducing the need for costly repairs.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 29, 1998