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Mystery of bat with an extraordinary nose solved

A Virginia Tech researcher has solved the mystery of the Bourret's horseshoe bat's unusually large nose, discovering it uses the elongated snout to create a highly focused sonar beam. The study provides insights into the evolution of biological shape and its physical function.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 7, 2009

Penn State researchers receive $1.2 million MURI grant

Researchers at Penn State's Center for Network-Centric Cognition and Information Fusion are working on a $1.2 million MURI grant to develop unified research on network-based hard/soft information fusion. The team will use data from various sources, including cell phones and social media sites, to improve data fusion capabilities.

Computers can boost literacy

A California Department of Education-funded project found that student achievement increased 27.5% with the use of technology to increase academic achievement in fourth-grade classrooms. Traditional print-based literacy is still important, but new technologies are also essential for students in the 21st century.

Continuous glucose monitoring technology -- special issue of Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics

A special supplement of Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics reviews the latest research findings and critical analysis of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology. CGM devices have been shown to improve glucose control, but limitations and drawbacks include finicky technology and limited physician knowledge.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateMay 29, 2009

Michigan scientist, ethicist urge scientists to speak out on environmental policy

A Michigan scientist and ethicist argue that environmental scientists have a responsibility to advocate for environmental policy. They analyze key arguments for and against advocacy, finding that most lack soundness. The researchers conclude that more active participation by scientists in policy matters is necessary to better society.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalConservation Biology·DateMay 19, 2009

Why silkworms find mulberries attractive

A new study reveals the source of silkworms' attraction to mulberry leaves is a jasmine-scented chemical called cis-jasmone. The potent attractant triggers a highly tuned olfactory receptor in the silkworms' antennae, guiding them towards the food source.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2009

SIAM names 183 Fellows for key contributions to applied mathematics and computational science

The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) has named 183 individuals as Fellows for their significant impact on the fields of applied mathematics and computational science. These professionals have made substantial contributions to various areas, including number theory, partial differential equations, and algorithm design.

Quantum link to memory

Researchers are investigating whether mathematical similarities between word associations and quantum theory could lead to new models of how humans process words and meaning. The study aims to gain an understanding of the intriguing connections between cognitive science and quantum theory.

Stevens faculty release study on free-space optical communication in Optics Express

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have made significant breakthroughs in free-space optical communication by demonstrating a unique atmospheric effect called scavenging, which improves the system's performance in adverse weather conditions. The study shows that mid-infrared QCL systems can deliver up to 300% greater throug...

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 17, 2009

A sustainable water supply for Brasilia

The IWAS Àgua DF project aims to develop a water management concept for Brasilia, addressing the city's growing population and climate change challenges. By integrating technical solutions with improved policy approaches, the project seeks to ensure a sustainable water supply for millions of inhabitants.

Arsenic and old toenails

Researchers from the University of Leicester and British Geological Survey have devised a method to identify levels of environmental arsenic by testing toenail clippings. They found elevated levels of arsenic in people living close to a former arsenic mine, but more research is needed to confirm potential health risks.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Environmental Monitoring·DateFeb 22, 2009