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Clouds like honeycomb

Researchers used a network approach to analyze the polygonal patterns in clouds, finding that they can be re-created using a simple mathematical model. This new method promises to help scientists improve the accuracy of cloud descriptions in computer models, which is crucial for climate projections.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2017

Putting others first can cost lives in emergencies

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that strong individuals should prioritize their own safety before attempting to help weaker people in emergency situations. The research used computer modeling to simulate a flooded subway station, finding that overall survival rates were higher when strong members reached safety first.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateJun 23, 2017

Supercomputer study unlocks secrets of brain and safer anesthetics

A seven-year study using a supercomputer has revealed the secrets of brain electrical signals and protein switches activated by binding molecules. The findings aim to develop safer and more effective anaesthetics, as well as treatments for various neural conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain.

SourceRMIT University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2017

Using high-resolution satellites to measure African farm yields

Researchers developed a method to estimate crop yields from space using high-resolution satellites, which could improve agricultural productivity and test intervention strategies. By combining satellite imagery with computer models of crop growth, they achieved surprisingly accurate predictions of actual productivity on the field.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2017

Study pinpoints when the Galápagos Islands developed their unique ecology

A new study suggests the Galapagos Islands' incredible biodiversity emerged approximately 1.6 million years ago when the Equatorial Undercurrent collided with the archipelago, bringing nutrient-rich waters to the surface. This event allowed for the growth of unique plants and animals that thrive in the islands' ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateDec 20, 2016

Islands and their ecosystems

Biologist Juliano Sarmento Cabral's research focuses on understanding island ecosystems' diversity and its connection to the past. He simulates nature in virtual worlds to study how environmental factors affect plants and animals, including the impact of climate change on epiphytes.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature·DateJun 14, 2016

Bubbles lead to disaster

Researchers used computer models and laboratory experiments to study bubble behavior in magma reservoirs. They found that bubbles accumulate faster in crystal-rich zones, leading to overpressurization and potential sulfur emissions. This discovery sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of super-volcanic eruptions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Geothermal heat contributes to Greenland ice melt

A recent study by University of Montana researcher Jesse Johnson reveals that geothermal heat enhances rapid ice flow and subglacial melting in northern Greenland. The research, published in Nature Geoscience, identifies a west-to-east zone with anomalously high heat that drives widespread melting and rapid ice flow.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 6, 2016

New explosion gas-signature models can help inspectors locate and identify underground nuclear tests

Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed new gas signature models to aid in locating and identifying underground nuclear tests. The models use computer simulations and field experiments to track the evolution of gases from UNEs, potentially helping inspectors identify clandestine sites within a search area.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2016

Harnessing the butterfly effect

A new method developed by McGill University professor Shaun Lovejoy could significantly improve atmospheric forecasting accuracy, particularly over long periods. By leveraging the atmosphere's long-term memory, Lovejoy's approach shows promise in explaining the 'pause' in global warming since 1998.

SourceMcGill University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 18, 2015

Forecasting diseases using Wikipedia

A team from Los Alamos National Laboratory successfully monitored and forecasted influenza, dengue fever, and tuberculosis outbreaks worldwide. The study demonstrates the potential of using public health data to build an operational disease monitoring system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 13, 2014