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Neurologists refine multiple sclerosis diagnostic criteria

The new criteria allow for an earlier diagnosis of multiple sclerosis with minimal loss of diagnostic accuracy. The revised guidelines also reduce the number of MRI scans required to evaluate disease progression, making it a powerful tool for diagnosing MS and excluding alternative diagnoses.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateNov 10, 2005

Working for a safer and more reliable electrical supply

A team of experts at Cardiff University will use sophisticated computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field tests to improve understanding of faults and power surges. They aim to develop computer models that can predict voltages and currents following major faults, helping the National Grid network to become safer and more r...

Science of perception

A novel experiment revealed that experts in fine visual distinctions can process faces and other objects using the same neural networks, contradicting previous theories. This discovery has implications for our understanding of autism, national security, and expert recognition abilities.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2004

AGU journal highlights - 7 June 2004

Two studies reveal new insights into climate change: a microplate in the Mediterranean Sea is found to be independent of larger tectonic plates, while seasonal changes in photosynthesis can affect global atmospheric simulations. Another study warns that oxygen isotope analyses may not accurately portray ancient climates due to changing...

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 7, 2004

Labs-on-a-chip to detect milk contamination

A new lab-on-a-chip technology can detect milk contamination and identify the botulinum toxin in as little as an hour with test results available in minutes. This innovation could lead to faster treatment for potential botulism toxin exposure, reducing its high specific toxicity as a bioterrorism threat.

SourceWhitaker Foundation·JournalElectrophoresis·DateMay 14, 2004

Delving into defects spurs prospects for chip insulator

A team of NIST and IBM researchers has quantified 'electrical capture defects' in hafnium oxide chips, which can drain currents and hinder transistor operation. By applying a voltage pulse and measuring current, the scientists identified critical locations where these defects occur near the silicon substrate-hafnium oxide interface.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateMar 11, 2004

New solid-state power switch safeguards electric service

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a high-power semiconductor switch called the Emitter Turn-off (ETO) Thyristor, suitable for fast and dynamic voltage support in the nation's congested power grid. The ETO switch offers fast switching speed, rugged turn-off capacity, and voltage control, reducing energy storage elements and size.

Slow moving vehicle sign not recognized by drivers

A Penn State researcher found that less than 30% of drivers recognize the Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) sign. The sign's inconsistent day/night appearance and potential confusion with other symbols contribute to the low comprehension rate. Improving motorist education and enforcement could help increase recognition.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Agricultural Safety and Health·DateMay 27, 2003

Stopping internal bleeding without surgery

Researchers have made a breakthrough in stopping internal bleeding without surgery, using traditional ultrasound to locate bleeding combined with HIFU. The technique has been shown to be effective in stopping bleeding in blood vessels and solid organs like the liver and spleen, offering new hope for emergency medical treatment.