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Tech posts for 7-July-2008
Jul. 7th, 2008 05:59 pmTabebuia extract reduces fat absorption - at least in rats. The extract is derived from a relative of the Magnolia tree and is being investigated as a way of combating obesity and, but extension, heart disease and diabetes. The extract has been shown to reduce triglyceride levels in rats.
Sex in Space - Space.com explores the issue that NASA has been avoiding... when are people going to "do it" in space, or has "it" already happened.
Computer program knows when you're perplexed - University of California researchers have developed a program that varies the presentation speed of a tutorial in response to the watcher's expression. When the student appeared to understand the presentation, the video was allowed to sail along, but when confusion or perplexity crept into their expression the video was slowed down to allow them more time to absorb the information.
And, because it has been a slow news day science-wise, a few videos to occupy your attention.
Ben Underwood is the real-life Daredevil - Blind since he was 5 years old, he has learned how to echo-locate using tongue clicks well enough to rollerblade and play basketball.
Improbable TV - Improbable research articles presented in video format
Hyperbike - It is apparently faster than a regular bicycle.
Neal Stevenson on why scifi actors become niche actors - Neal discusses the bifurcation of the careers of scifi actors like Leonard Nimoy, as well as comments on who should play Spock.
Star Wars fan movie contest - George Lucas picks his favourite fan movie as part of a contest that has run for several years. This year's finalists are now online and available for viewing.
Sex in Space - Space.com explores the issue that NASA has been avoiding... when are people going to "do it" in space, or has "it" already happened.
Computer program knows when you're perplexed - University of California researchers have developed a program that varies the presentation speed of a tutorial in response to the watcher's expression. When the student appeared to understand the presentation, the video was allowed to sail along, but when confusion or perplexity crept into their expression the video was slowed down to allow them more time to absorb the information.
And, because it has been a slow news day science-wise, a few videos to occupy your attention.
Ben Underwood is the real-life Daredevil - Blind since he was 5 years old, he has learned how to echo-locate using tongue clicks well enough to rollerblade and play basketball.
Improbable TV - Improbable research articles presented in video format
Hyperbike - It is apparently faster than a regular bicycle.
Neal Stevenson on why scifi actors become niche actors - Neal discusses the bifurcation of the careers of scifi actors like Leonard Nimoy, as well as comments on who should play Spock.
Star Wars fan movie contest - George Lucas picks his favourite fan movie as part of a contest that has run for several years. This year's finalists are now online and available for viewing.