Saturday, August 20, 2011

NASA Eco-Alien Attack

A report suggesting aliens might destroy humanity due to carbon emissions is being attributed to NASA.


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Steven Sparkman
Anchor: Blake Hanson
Video provided by Newsy.com

Gaddafi Family Preparing to Flee

U.S. officials say the Libyan leader could leave the country within the next few days.


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By Blake Hanson
Anchor: Blake Hanson
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Study: Alcohol Defends Against Dementia

A new study found moderate alcohol consumption could help defend against dementia later in life.


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Logan Tittle
Anchor: Lauren Gores
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U.S. & China Business Roundtable: Opening Remarks


In Beijing, Vice President Biden offers opening remarks at a roundtable discussion of U.S. and Chinese business leaders. The VP is joined by his counterpart, Vice President Xi of China.

West Wing Week: 8/19/11 or "Get On The Bus"

Friday, August 19, 2011

Bank of America to Cut Thousands of Jobs

The nation’s biggest bank is set to cut at least 3,500 jobs by the end of the year.


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Mallory Perryman
Anchor: Lauren Gores
Video provided by Newsy.com

Newsy Now: News Round-Up

West Memphis Three Deal; Obama Presses to Deport 'Dangerous' Aliens; Taliban Strikes UK Council; Gtown BBall Brawl in China; Storms Rock Belgium Fest


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By Erik Shute
Anchor: Adam Falk
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Obama to Syrian Pres: 'Get Out of the Way'

President Obama released a statement Thursday condemning the actions of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.


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By Zach Toombs
Anchor: Zach Toombs
Video provided by Newsy.com

Study: Dogs Can Detect Lung Cancer

A new study shows that dogs can detect lung cancer in humans by sniffing their breath.


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By Chelsea McGartland
Anchor: JJ Bailey
Video provided by Newsy.com

Rep. Waters: Obama Needs to Pay More Attention to Blacks

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) told a town hall audience that black lawmakers are afraid of challenging President Obama.


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Steven Hsieh
Anchor: JJ Bailey
Video provided by Newsy.com

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Newsy Now: News Round-Up

DOW Drops 400 pts; DOJ Probes S&P; Teen Bomb Plot in Tampa; Attacks in Israel; Libya Rebels Capture Key Oil Refinery; O'Donnell Storms off CNN


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Erik Shute
Anchor: Lauren Gores
Video provided by Newsy.com

Standard and Poor's Under Investigation

The SEC is investigating Standard and Poor's for alleged improper credit ratings during housing crisis, and insider trading before the downgrade.


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By Charlie McKeague
Anchor: Jim Flink
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Leaders of Tomorrow: Derek Netto


18-Year-Old Genius Develops Apparatus to Enhance NASA Space Suits

To say that Derek Netto is not your average teen would be an understatement. His list of accomplishments, from sixth grade to his recent graduation from Archbishop Molloy High School, are nothing short of astounding.

"Over the past six years I have worked on five books in collaboration with the Aquinas Honor Society, two of which have been published. The most recent book, Images of America: Jamaica Estates, was published by Arcadia Publishing, a major publishing company," said Netto.

"Arcadia Publishing was so impressed by our work that they requested us to write an additional book covering the entire town of Jamaica. The book, Images of America: Jamaica,was published this spring."

From The G-Man showcased students from the Aquinas Honor Society at the Immaculate Conception School and their publications in a previous installment of Leaders of Tomorrow.

Netto became a founding member of the Aquinas Honor Society in 2005. Through numerous projects, the organization erected historical markers, fought social ills, promoted diversity, educated the public and worked to preserve history. One of their projects involved the design and installation of a stained glass window made with scrap from the Twin Towers that symbolized hope.

Another venture led to the renovation of a forgotten WWII monument. The 18-year-old, whose parents hail from India, directed a long-term project to restore the stolen bust of Jacob Riis at Riis National Park. After five years of conceptualization and execution, the work was featured in the New York Daily News.

"As a historian, I am always trying to educate the public about the past. At Spirits Alive, an annual event held at Kew Gardens' Maple Grove Cemetery, actors dress up in costume and portray various historical figures who lived in my neighborhood," continued Netto.

"I have been a part of this event from its beginnings, before it was well known. In recent years, I have taken on an organizational role in addition to acting."

"Seeing and shaking hands with President Obama was one of the greatest experiences of my life," said Netto, who is located at the bottom of the photo.

Netto has successfully completed the NYU Poly: Innovative Conceptual Engineering Design Course – Grades 10-12; the ACE Mentor Program – Grades 11-12; the Women and Minorities Engineering Program – Summer 2010; and the Dolan DNA Learning Center Program – Summer 2009.

In addition to being a gifted student, Netto is also an exceptionally-talented martial artists. He was employed at the ASAHI Martial Arts Academy from 2008 to 2011, as Senior Instructor, and trained younger students in the art of Tae Kwon Do -- teaching them concentration, self-defense, and discipline.

In January of this year, Netto ventured into online auto sales and has gone on to sell a total of 27 cars, and it was only recently that he celebrated his 18th birthday!

The boy wonder's recent achievements and awards include the Innovative Engineering Award from the National Society of Professional Engineers and Professional Engineers in Industry; the Frank W. and Jan J. Stahl Memorial Award for Technical Excellence; the U.S. Army Award for Outstanding Science Project; and the New York State Comptroller’s Award for Academic Excellence & Civic Commitment. Remarkably, Netto received all of the awards in 2011.


From The G-Man posed the following questions to Netto, and the responses he gave clearly illustrate that he is wise beyond his years.

FTG: What has been your greatest source of inspiration, thus far?

Netto: My greatest inspiration is my grandfather who lives his life to the fullest. He advises me that four things come not back to man: the spoken word, the sped arrow, the past life and the neglected opportunity.

FTG: What goal would you like to achieve in the next two years?

Netto: In the next two years, I would like to be involved in the testing of biological cells and soft tissues to gain a better understanding of their properties.

FTG: What is your biggest fear regarding the future?

Netto: My biggest fear is that climate change may accelerate faster than modern technology can develop an effective method to suppress its consequences.

The Aquinas Honor Society member will be pursuing a major in mechanical engineering at Columbia University in the fall as an incoming freshman.

Derek Netto, without question, one of America's brilliant... leaders of tomorrow.

Editor's Note: In order to further illustrate the extraordinary talent of this young man, From The G-Man has taken the liberty of publishing Netto's groundbreaking concept that was specifically created for NASA space suits and astronauts. Netto received a national award for the design.


NYCSEF
The Biological Injection System

Project ID: 1558


Derek Netto

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to enhance the current NASA spacesuit and provide astronauts with the means necessary to carry out missions with increased efficiency. The Biological Injection System was designed to meet this purpose. Ideal chemical compounds for each of the Biological Injection System's functions were researched and found. Epinephrine, glucose, and saline served as the principal injections. Intravenous saline injection is considered to be the most efficient means of temperature regulation because no heat is lost to the atmosphere. The injection system was constructed using 0.6 diameter plastic tubing, tape, and syringes. The Biological Injection System's effective delivery of substances was demonstrated on clear Jell-O representing the human forearm. The system was able to successfully inject the Jell-O with colored dyes each representing their respective substance. Adrenaline, glucose, and saline were represented by red, green, and blue respectively. The apparatus was able to fulfill its purpose of delivering the substances. The Biological Injection System and its components can easily be integrated into the current NASA Portable Life Support System carried by astronauts. The Biological Injection System may also be used to aid exploration and enhance human life in harsh environments such as deserts or high altitude mountains.

Introduction:

This project brings an innovation to the field of Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering. The Biological Injection System will give astronauts the means necessary to carry out more complex missions and allow them to work outside their habitat for a period longer than the current eight hour maximum. Currently, spacesuits employ an air cooling system for temperature regulation. However, such a system would not be ideal for the planned mission to Mars. Because the Martian temperature is generally too cold for human comfort, an alternate to the current air temperature regulation system is needed. The Biological Injection System is also safer than the current system because it reduces the potential failure mechanism of puncture. The Biological Injection System’s intravenous injection is more efficient than the current system because all of the thermal energy is transferred directly into the bloodstream of the astronaut. Use of the Biological Injection System in space exploration can lead to numerous new discoveries and help humans gain a better understanding of the universe.

Materials and Methods:

The Biological Injection System would provide astronauts with additional time in a fatal situation, nourishment when they are away from habitat, and a maximum efficiency temperature regulation system. These benefits are gained through the three injections that the system offers. The adrenaline provides astronauts with additional time in a fatal situation. The glucose injection gives astronauts the sustenance they need to effectively carry out missions away from the habitat. A maximum efficiency temperature regulation system uses temperature controlled saline used to intravenously regulate the body temperature of the astronaut. The beneficial effects of these chemicals on the human body were researched and compared to the chemical’s side effects.

The Biological Injection System is a simple apparatus that was made with materials readily available at a hardware store. The apparatus was constructed using 0.6 diameter tubing, tape, and syringes. (See Figures 1, 2, and 3). The Biological Injection System's effective delivery of substances was demonstrated on clear Jell-O representing the human forearm. Clear gelatin was used so the injected substances could be seen inside the gelatin. The system was able to successfully inject the Jell-O with colored dyes each representing their respective substance. Adrenaline, glucose, and saline were represented by red, green, and blue respectively. The effective delivery was demonstrated 10 times. The apparatus was able to fulfill its purpose of delivering the substances.

Figure 1: 1st Sketch of Design

Figure 2: 2nd Sketch of Design


Figure 3: Photograph of Final Design
Red tip (Needle to astronaut), Syringes (left to right: Glucose, Adrenaline and Saline)

Discussion:

Because it may be hard to convince astronauts to use a syringe to carry out their missions, alternate delivery methods were researched. Instead of using a syringe, an alternate model of the Biological Injection System could incorporate a microneedle patch into its design. A microneedle patch is a device used in drug delivery that only enters the epidermis, causing virtually no pain. The use of this attachment would increase the device’s safety, comfort, redundancy, and reliability.

The Biological Injection System would serve as a driving force behind space exploration. The Biological Injection System would provide astronauts with additional time in a fatal situation, nourishment when they are away from habitat, and a maximum efficiency temperature regulation system. The Biological Injection System and its components can easily be integrated into the current NASA Portable Life Support System carried by astronauts. The Biological Injection System may also be used to aid and enhance exploration and human life in harsh environments such as deserts or high altitude mountains. The Biological Injection System may even allow humans to inhabit and thrive in environments that were otherwise considered to be unsuitable for human life. The use of the Biological Injection System in space exploration can lead to numerous new discoveries and help humans gain a better understanding of the universe. This innovation has the potential to open a vast amount of doors to scientific discovery.

References

Luttge, R. "Silicon Micromachined Hollow Microneedles for Transdermal Liquid Transport." Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems 12.6 (2003): 855-62. IEEE Xplore. Web. 12 Aug. 2010. .

Norman, James. "Insulin Regulation of Blood Sugar and Diabetes - The Important Roles of Insulin and Glucagon: Diabetes and Hypoglycemia." EndocrineWeb. 29 Mar. 2009. Web. 04 Aug. 2010. .

Stendell, E. "An Experimental Study of Warming Intravenous Fluid in a Cold Environment." PubMed. Web. 06 Aug. 2010. .

Stone, C. K. "Controlled Trial of an Intravenous Fluid Warmer." PubMed 13.1 (1994): 18-20. Web. 06 Aug. 2010. .

Voelckel, Wolfgang G. "Effects of Epinephrine and Vasopressin in a Piglet Model of Prolonged Ventricular Fibrillation and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation." Critical Care Medicine 30.5 (2002): 957-62.

White House Responds to Israel Terrorist Attacks


Statement by Press Secretary on Attacks in Southern Israel

"We condemn the brutal terrorist attacks in southern Israel today in the strongest terms. Our deepest condolences go to the victims, their families and loved ones, and we wish those injured a speedy recovery. The U.S. and Israel stand united against terror and we hope that those behind this attack will be brought to justice swiftly."

Flag of Israel image source: Wikipedia
Permission: Public Domain

Bulletproof Human Skin

Scientists combine spider silk and goat's milk to create bulletproof human skin.


Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

By Megan Farokhmanesh
Anchor: Christina Hartman
Video provided by Newsy.com

'The United States Opposes the Use of Violence Against Peaceful Protesters in Syria'


Flag of Syria

Statement by President Obama on the Situation in Syria

The United States has been inspired by the Syrian peoples’ pursuit of a peaceful transition to democracy. They have braved ferocious brutality at the hands of their government. They have spoken with their peaceful marches, their silent shaming of the Syrian regime, and their courageous persistence in the face of brutality – day after day, week after week.


The Syrian government has responded with a sustained onslaught. I strongly condemn this brutality, including the disgraceful attacks on Syrian civilians in cities like Hama and Deir al Zour, and the arrests of opposition figures who have been denied justice and subjected to torture at the hands of the regime.


These violations of the universal rights of the Syrian people have revealed to Syria, the region, and the world the Assad government’s flagrant disrespect for the dignity of the Syrian people.

The United States opposes the use of violence against peaceful protesters in Syria, and we support the universal rights of the Syrian people. We have imposed sanctions on President Assad and his government. The European Union has imposed sanctions as well.

We helped lead an effort at the UN Security Council to condemn Syria’s actions. We have coordinated closely with allies and partners from the region and around the world. The Assad government has now been condemned by countries in all parts of the globe, and can look only to Iran for support for its brutal and unjust crackdown.

The future of Syria must be determined by its people, but President Bashar al-Assad is standing in their way. His calls for dialogue and reform have rung hollow while he is imprisoning, torturing, and slaughtering his own people. We have consistently said that President Assad must lead a democratic transition or get out of the way. He has not led. For the sake of the Syrian people, the time has come for President Assad to step aside.

The United States cannot and will not impose this transition upon Syria. It is up to the Syrian people to choose their own leaders, and we have heard their strong desire that there not be foreign intervention in their movement.


What the United States will support is an effort to bring about a Syria that is democratic, just, and inclusive for all Syrians. We will support this outcome by pressuring President Assad to get out of the way of this transition, and standing up for the universal rights of the Syrian people along with others in the international community.

As a part of that effort, my Administration is announcing unprecedented sanctions to deepen the financial isolation of the Assad regime and further disrupt its ability to finance a campaign of violence against the Syrian people.


I have signed a new Executive Order requiring the immediate freeze of all assets of the Government of Syria subject to U.S. jurisdiction and prohibiting U.S. persons from engaging in any transaction involving the Government of Syria.


This E.O. also bans U.S. imports of Syrian-origin petroleum or petroleum products; prohibits U.S. persons from having any dealings in or related to Syria’s petroleum or petroleum products; and prohibits U.S. persons from operating or investing in Syria. We expect today’s actions to be amplified by others.

We recognize that it will take time for the Syrian people to achieve the justice they deserve. There will be more struggle and sacrifice. It is clear that President Assad believes that he can silence the voices of his people by resorting to the repressive tactics of the past. But he is wrong.


As we have learned these last several months, sometimes the way things have been is not the way that they will be. It is time for the Syrian people to determine their own destiny, and we will continue to stand firmly on their side.

Image source: Wikipedia

Permission: Public Domain

DMV Investigation Leads to Additional Arrests of Commercial Drivers with Multiple Licenses



Facial Recognition Technology Helps Identify Drivers Using False IDs

A Department of Motor Vehicles investigation has led to the arrests of 51 commercial drivers, including bus drivers, for fraudulently obtaining multiple driver licenses using an alias.

The arrests were made as the result of the use of facial recognition technology which reviewed the records of 600,000 holders of New York State Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs).

In addition to the most recent arrests, more than 70 other CDL drivers were arrested based on the use of facial recognition technology earlier this year. Since February of 2010, 800 people have been arrested for having two or more licenses under different aliases.

The drivers who obtained their licenses fraudulently were each charged with Offering a False Instrument in the First Degree and Falsifying Business Records in the Second Degree. Those with excessive unpaid tickets were also charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the Second Degree.

"With some hi-tech help, the state can now quickly find drivers who think it's acceptable to use an alias to illegally get more than one license," Governor Cuomo said.

"I commend investigators from the Department of Motor Vehicles as well as the local, state and federal agencies that teamed up on this case to help stop this fraud and keep our roads safe."

In addition to the DMV Division of Field Investigations the other agencies involved in the investigations and arrests were the New York City Police Department Document Fraud Squad, the New York State Division of State Police, U. S Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Social Security Administration, the United States Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, and the U.S. Secret Service in cooperation with the offices of the District Attorneys in Queens, New York, Brooklyn, Nassau, Westchester and the Bronx.

Barbara J. Fiala, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee said, "We know that the work of the DMV's Division of Field Investigations in identifying these commercial drivers who are a danger on our highways will bring great benefit to all New Yorkers. I congratulate the DFI staff for their work and thank all those who played an important role in getting these drivers off our roads."

"Individuals who obtain multiple driver licenses misappropriate government benefits, or worse conceal violent criminal histories. I commend the NYPD's Document Fraud Squad, the DMV Division of Field Investigations, and State Police and federal investigators and our District Attorneys for their fine work," stated
New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly.

State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D'Amico noted, "Individuals who fraudulently obtain commercial driver's licenses represent a tremendous potential threat to public safety. These arrests are significant not just because of the apprehension of the individuals involved, but because they demonstrate the effectiveness of the measures being taken to ensure the integrity of New York's licensing system. The State Police and DMV will continue to work cooperatively to prevent unqualified or unsafe drivers from operating commercial motor vehicles on our roads and highways."

According to Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown, "These arrests show the continuing commitment by Governor Cuomo, the Department of Motor Vehicles and law enforcement officials across the state to keeping our roads safe. Drivers who illegally obtain fraudulent licenses are in all likelihood trying to conceal something in their backgrounds that could put the safety of passengers and other drivers on the road at risk. It is imperative to protect our streets and highways from unsafe and criminal drivers."

Brooklyn District Attorney Charles J. Hynes said, "Law abiding citizens deserve to be protected from those, often untrained drivers, using fraudulent documents to obtain licenses and causing accidents and creating dangerous conditions on our highways. Driving is a privilege and state licensing is a safeguard against criminals who would abuse it. I fully support Governor Cuomo's efforts to crack down on these abuses and will prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law."

"Whether they're hiding a lack of training or a dangerous driving record, those who use fraudulent commercial driver licenses are a threat to public safety when they're behind the wheel. I welcome this opportunity to partner with Governor Cuomo and the DMV to take these dangerous drivers off the road," commented
Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen M. Rice.

Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore praised Cuomo and the DMV for their efforts.

"I commend both the Governor and Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles who are actively trying to protect the integrity and security of our State's transportation system through aggressive enforcement and the use of facial recognition technology. With the resurgence of people using Motor Coach travel, law enforcement has to redouble its efforts to combat the use of fake, fraudulent or suspended licenses, making sure that the operators are trained and well qualified, ensuring the public's safety."

Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service New York Field Office, Brian G. Parr said, "The Secret Service believes that building trusted partnerships between all levels of law enforcement is a proven, successful model for combating criminal activity. Through this collaborative approach our New York and New Jersey Electronic Crimes Task Force is able to share our technical expertise and provide logistical support while continuing to augment our advanced detection and prevention efforts."