A new paper warns of the dangers of large language models, which can perpetuate racist ideologies and cause significant environmental degradation. The models' huge computational needs also restrict access to smaller developers, leaving out marginalized communities.
A new study from the University of Washington found that individuals who recognize common humanity with others are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors, such as wearing masks and helping those in need, even at personal cost. This identification with all humanity was a stronger predictor of behavior than identifying with one's c...
Researchers at the University of Washington developed a new AI system that can track individual heartbeats using smart speakers. The system sends inaudible sounds and uses machine learning to identify signals from both regular and irregular heartbeats, achieving accuracy comparable to standard heartbeat monitors.
A new study from the University of Washington reveals that people's brains have parallel learning systems for avoiding bad options and finding good ones. The research suggests that being able to 'turn down the volume' on irrelevant signals is critical to complex problem-solving.
A new method to rate tornado warning skill improves understanding of forecast challenges, particularly nighttime and summer twisters. The study finds that these events are harder to predict due to unfavorable conditions and fewer eyewitness reports.
A record-high amount of Arctic freshwater is expected to flow into the Labrador Sea, impacting local marine environments and global ocean currents. The freshwater, which has increased by 40% over the past two decades, will travel through the Canadian Archipelago rather than traditional marine passageways.
The study documents the discovery of Purgatorius fossils, which are estimated to be 65.9 million years old, providing insight into primates' evolution and diversification after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. The findings suggest that primates likely emerged by the Late Cretaceous period and lived alongside large dinosaurs.
Researchers at the University of Washington and Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute developed a phone-based therapy to combat insomnia in older adults with osteoarthritis. The study found that this treatment can be delivered in just a few short calls, improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue and pain symptoms.
A University of Washington study suggests that reducing emissions by 1.8% annually would be required to meet the 2 degrees Celsius global temperature target. This represents an 80% increase in ambition over current Paris Agreement targets.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed an AI system called Audeo that generates music from silent video performances of pianists. The system correctly identified musical pieces using music-recognition apps 86% of the time, surpassing human accuracy in some cases.
A new study finds human-induced climate change responsible for the retreat of Palcaraju Glacier, leading to a significant increase in glacial lake outburst flooding. The research provides critical evidence for an ongoing case in German courts, highlighting the need for protective measures and reimbursement.
A new University of Washington study found that bleeding gums on gentle probing and retinal hemorrhaging are associated with low vitamin C levels in the bloodstream. Increasing daily vitamin C intake helped reverse these bleeding issues.
A University of Washington study identifies four main groups of photoreceptors, many of them new, that marine organisms use to detect and respond to light. This discovery could aid in the field of optogenetics and provide insights into how marine life responds to changing ocean conditions.
Research shows that sleep cycles in people oscillate during the 29.5-day lunar cycle, with people going to bed later and sleeping less in the days leading up to a full moon. This natural adaptation may have allowed ancestors to take advantage of available evening light.
Small hydropower dams in Brazil are found to cause more significant disruptions to fish migration patterns than large hydropower projects. The study highlights the cumulative impacts of these smaller dams on river connectivity and biodiversity.
A team from the University of Washington has used a robust model of Venus' atmosphere to reinterpret radio telescope observations and conclude that phosphine was unlikely detected. The data instead suggest sulfur dioxide as the source of the signal, which is consistent with what astronomers know of the planet's environment.
A 10% increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit led to a 9% decrease in annual reports of child neglect made to child welfare agencies. The study highlights the importance of social policies on health and suggests that violence prevention can be an added benefit.
Scientists at the University of Washington develop a technique to modify biological polymers with protein-based biochemical messages, triggering cell behavior. The approach uses near-infrared lasers to attach proteins to scaffolds made from collagen or fibrin, creating intricate patterns that control cell growth and signaling.
A study led by the University of Washington found that women perceived as 'prototypical' are more likely to be believed when making accusations of sexual harassment. Non-prototypical women face greater hurdles and are seen as less credible, less harmed, and their harassers deserve less punishment.
Researchers discovered that the two stars in the HS Hydrae system were almost completely eclipsing each other 50 years ago but now barely overlap. The team predicts that the eclipses will cease around February 2021, marking the end of this rare stellar dance.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed a new treatment that uses skin-surface stimulation to help people with spinal cord injuries regain hand and arm mobility. After a five-month training program, six participants showed significant improvements in hand function, which lasted for up to six months after treatment ended.
A new study published in Nature Sustainability found that more management measures employed in fisheries lead to better outcomes for fish populations. The research team analyzed data from nearly 300 fish populations and confirmed that increased management attention is linked to healthier fisheries.
A team of researchers has developed an optical computing core prototype using phase-change material, accelerating neural networks and reducing energy consumption for AI applications. The technology is scalable and directly applicable to cloud computing, making it a promising solution for the growing demands of AI online.
A new AI model has shown promise in generating faster and more accurate weather forecasts by analyzing past weather patterns. The model uses about 7,000 times less computing power than traditional forecasting models while still simulating a year's weather around the globe.
A new study suggests that warm ocean currents in the North Pacific during the last ice age created a relatively warm region around the modern Bering Sea, making it more habitable for early humans. This finding addresses a long-standing mystery about the earliest inhabitants of North America.
Scientists aim to understand the recent collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to better gauge its potential risk in a warming climate. The Hercules Dome ice core will provide key evidence about past sea levels and ocean chemistry.
A University of Washington study found that aircraft noise impacts the Olympic Peninsula at least 20% of weekday hours, affecting wildlife and residents. The researchers also found most military aircraft noise is intermittent and comparable to Seattle's air traffic.
The Smellicopter drone uses a live moth antenna to sense chemicals in the air and navigate towards sources of interest. It can also avoid obstacles using infrared sensors and doesn't require GPS, making it suitable for exploring indoor or underground spaces.
The Stingray Nebula, a young planetary nebula, has faded significantly over the past 20 years, losing its bright colors and shape. Its rapid dimming is likely connected to the cooling of its parent star, which has reduced ultraviolet ionizing radiation.
Researchers discovered that a molecule related to tire preservative 6PPD is highly toxic to coho salmon, causing acute mortality. The team identified 6PPD-quinone as the culprit chemical, which transforms when exposed to ozone and kills salmon.
A new University of Washington study examines the effects of early police contacts on Black and white adolescents, finding that Black youth are more likely to be treated as 'usual suspects' after a first encounter, leading to subsequent arrests. White youth with early police contact are not significantly more likely to be arrested later.
Researchers discovered that cowpea plants harbor receptors on their cells that can detect caterpillar saliva, triggering anti-herbivore defenses. The discovery sheds light on how plants activate their immune systems to defend against hungry insects.
Research team discovers endophytes can break apart phosphorus complexes, making it accessible to plants. This natural approach reduces environmental harm from chemical fertilizers and promotes more sustainable food production.
A DNA-based molecular tagging system called Porcupine has been developed by University of Washington and Microsoft researchers. The system uses distinct DNA strands to encode digital tags with high accuracy and security, making it suitable for tracking high-value items and preventing tampering.
Researchers tracked and flew through wildfire plumes from the source to collect data on how chemical composition changes over time. The study found that smoke forecasts may incorrectly predict particles in staler smoke, which could impact air quality estimates.
A new study reveals that mammals were socially interacting during the Age of Dinosaurs, contradicting previous assumptions. The discovery of a new genus, Filikomys primaevus, indicates that these early mammals engaged in multi-generational, group-nesting and burrowing behavior.
A new model simulates COVID-19 spread through neighborhoods, revealing varying risk levels, peak infection times, and prolonged hospital strain. Denser areas tend to reach peak infections earlier, while less dense ones may experience longer outbreaks.
Researchers developed SoundWatch, a smartwatch app for deaf, Deaf, and hard-of-hearing people to receive sound alerts from various sources. The app uses machine learning to identify and classify common home-related sounds, enhancing users' experiences and connection to the world.
A University of Washington study reveals certain human actions increase survival chances in devastating events. Researchers suggest simple behavioral changes, such as being aware of local hazards and moving to a higher floor, can save more lives than expensive engineering solutions.
Researchers at Forefront Suicide Prevention at the University of Washington found that talking about suicide prevention and safe firearm storage at gun shows can lead to a significant increase in people locking up their firearms. In a community-based setting, engaging people in an empathetic conversation resulted in more people adoptin...
A new study found that early-arriving endangered Chinook salmon experience an additional 20% mortality due to sea lion predation. The study also showed that the numbers of California sea lions are highest at the mouth of the Columbia River, increasing exposure to predation.
Researchers argue that current approaches to attributing extreme weather events to global warming focus too much on raising the threshold for false alarms, neglecting the importance of accurate warnings. By prioritizing probability of detection, climate scientists can strike a better balance between caution and timely warning.
University of Washington researchers develop a 98mg sensor system that can be released from drones or insects and land safely without breaking, collecting data for almost three years. The system uses a magnetic pin to hold the sensor, which is then released using a wireless command, allowing for remote monitoring in hard-to-reach areas.
Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered that stacked graphene bilayers can exhibit highly correlated electron properties. The team found evidence of exotic magnetic states and correlated insulating states with features resembling superconductivity. The origins of these features are attributed to quantum mechanical p...
Researchers used data from fishing technology company ReelSonar to model angler movements and predict where aquatic invasives may spread. The study found that anglers who fish frequently in the same area are more likely to transport invasive species.
A recent University of Washington study found that age restrictions on handgun purchases have little effect on the rate of homicides involving guns by people in this age group. The central issue is high informal access to firearms, making it difficult to address with age limits. Firearms are a leading cause of death among American youth.
Researchers found that polar bears in Kane Basin are healthier due to thinning sea ice, which allows more sunlight to reach the ocean surface. The bears are also traveling further to find food, but their long-term survival is uncertain.
A study by the University of Washington found that US public schools display bias towards Muslim and atheist students, with a 5-13% lower response rate compared to Christian students. The researchers suggest that this bias may stem from perceived costs associated with accommodating religious needs.
New research reveals that marine animals generally inhabit the maximum range of breathable ocean zones determined by their physiology and oxygen needs. The study warns that climate change will restrict these ranges as warmer waters harbor less oxygen, potentially leading to habitat shifts or oxygen shortages.
Researchers at the University of Washington found that heavy rainfall, rather than large offshore earthquakes, triggers deep-seated landslides in the central Oregon Coast Range. Over a period of 1,000 years, they identified 2,676 landslides that occurred within the past millennium, with many triggered by heavy rainfall events.