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19828
A concern I have for a new route algorithm to replace algorithms that “may overlook shorter routes for the sake of following major highways” is exemplified by the fact that here in southern Oregon, every winter, people get lost and occasionally die taking the “shorter routes” as suggested by car-navigation systems or online trip plotters. […]
- Computing
Lost in transportation
A new algorithm might make online driving directions more accurate.
- Math
Sensor Sensibility
Networks of tiny computerized sensors that adjust their function as needed may soon pervade our environment.
- Archaeology
Peru’s Sunny View
Researchers have found the oldest solar observatory in the Americas, a group of 13 towers first used around 300 B.C. to mark the positions of sunrises and sunsets from summer to winter solstice.
- Humans
Letters from the May 5, 2007, issue of Science News
Mere kats? “Science behind the Soap Opera” (SN: 3/3/07, p. 138) shows that meerkats bear an uncanny resemblance to human beings. We, too, have an innate sense of responsibility for our group and individually commit acts of unspeakable violence. John HagerhorstFrederick, Md. Just a dram “Natural-Born Addicts: Brain differences may herald drug addiction” (SN: 3/3/07, […]
- Computing
Computer, Name That Tune!
Computers can analyze music mathematically and use the result to track down songs, without even knowing the composer, performer, or title.
- Humans
From the April 24, 1937, issue
Solving a local mystery and closing in on chlorophyll synthesis.
- Humans
Federal Citizen Information Center
This unit of the U.S. government provides practical guides and fact sheets, most of which are free, on a variety topics related to particular aspects of health, food, computers, and more. Recent free documents include “Sleep Disorders,” “Sunscreens and Tanning,” and “Internet Auctions: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers.” Go to: http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov
- Earth
Ash Detector: Laser device could protect aircraft in flight
Analysis of a volcanic plume that wafted over central Alaska suggests that polarized laser beams can detect airborne ash, which can be a threat to aircraft.
- Health & Medicine
Diabetes from Depression: Older adults face dual risk
Adults 65 and older who report depressive symptoms are 50 to 60 percent more likely to develop diabetes than are their peers.
- Earth
Pregnancy and Pollution: Women living in areas with poor air quality have babies with lower birthweights
Pregnant women exposed even to moderate amounts of several common air pollutants tend to have babies with low birthweights.
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Sleep on It: Time delay plus slumber equals memory boost
Sleep revs up a person's ability to discern connections among pieces of information encountered in novel situations.
