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Blaming beavers for flood damage is bad policy and bad science, Concordia research shows

A new Concordia research study refutes the notion that beaver dam failures can cause river flooding, arguing that failed dams had only a small effect on water levels downstream. The study found that natural conditions such as steep slopes and intense rainfall were more likely to cause damage.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEarth Surface Processes and Landforms·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 24, 2026

Scientists put teeth into water-driven gears

Researchers created a gear mechanism that relies on fluids to generate rotation, offering potential for new mechanical devices with improved flexibility and durability. The invention holds promise by eliminating the need for interlocking teeth and allowing for controlled rotation speed and direction.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 13, 2026

Layers of carbonate provide insight into the world of the ancient Romans

Researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz reconstructed the development of Barbegal's former water mills using carbonate deposits. The study found that wooden water wheels and gutters were replaced every 3-8 years, and the structure was modified to increase water flow.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalGeoarchaeology·DateJul 1, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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Researchers propose a more effective method to predict floods

A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and other institutions has identified a flexible and user-friendly model for predicting flood frequency in a changing environment. The fractional polynomial-based regression method is more effective than existing models, which often fail to account for factors like climate ...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Finding the cause of a fatal problem in rocket engine combustors

Researchers found significant periodic flow velocity fluctuations in fuel injector ignite combustion oscillations, leading to high mechanical stress on the combustion chamber. The findings provide a reasonable answer for why these oscillations occur and have significant implications for preventing fatal damage in critical engines.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

Rock humidity in Spain's dehesas: An additional source of water for vegetation

Researchers in Spain found rock humidity in dehesas can sustain vegetation during droughts by providing an alternative source of water. Soil moisture levels varied between slopes, with the north-facing slope having higher biomass and NDVI values, indicating improved plant growth due to increased water storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateApr 29, 2021

Tree hydraulics and water relations: Why trees die as a result of drought

Researchers discovered that trees experience a sudden collapse in their hydraulic systems during drought, leading to rapid death. The study found that this collapse occurs much sooner than previously thought, highlighting the importance of understanding tree water relations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Innovative valve train saves 20% fuel

The new electrohydraulic valve train achieves significantly lower energy requirements and flexible gas exchange, adapting to changing fuel properties and enabling easier implementation of renewable fuels. The system also features an oil-free cylinder head, utilizing a water-glycol mixture for fast-switching hydraulic systems.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalMTZ worldwide·DateAug 19, 2019

Equations help predict the behavior of water in rivers

Researchers developed a system of physics equations to model how water spills out over an earth dike, causing it to break and overflow. The new model takes into account the deformation of the dike's bed while water erodes it, providing more accurate predictions and improving flood safety.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Hydraulic Engineering·DateJul 2, 2019

Lehigh professor Panos Diplas elected ASCE fellow

Dr. Panos Diplas, a Lehigh University professor, has been elected as an ASCE Fellow for his distinguished work in civil engineering and research on river phenomena such as scour and meandering. His team's studies aim to improve bridge stability and mitigate the effects of river movement on ecosystems.

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 9, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

How some leaves got fat: It's the veins

A new study by Brown University researchers found that fat leaves evolved a three-dimensional vein structure to store water and sustain efficient photosynthesis. This evolution allowed leaves to become thicker without compromising hydraulic performance, enabling plants like succulents to thrive in arid conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 11, 2013

How backhoes get the shakes

A recent study by Margolis and Shim found that a small movement of the mechanical controls in backhoes can lead to rapid vibration, causing operators to lose control. The problem can be eliminated by stiffening the suspension of the cab or developing automatic control systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Dynamic Systems Measurement and Control·DateNov 18, 2003

Threatened juvenile salmon get scientific assistance

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has developed a culvert test bed to assess hydraulic conditions and fish behavior in various culvert designs. The system enables controlled experiments to address ESA issues and inform improved stream crossing designs, benefiting the well-being of fish runs in Washington State.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateAug 18, 2003
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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