Articles tagged with Weaponry
A new study by seismologists at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory suggests that North Korea's alleged 2010 nuclear tests were probably false alarms. The researchers found no evidence of seismic waves consistent with the detonations, citing the region's dense network of seismic stations.
The Office of Naval Research has recognized five engineers for their work on the electromagnetic railgun, a long-range weapons system that fires projectiles using electricity. The team's achievements include two world record launches and significant advancements to the launcher technology.
A new study by San Francisco State University researchers found that asymmetrical forceps in male earwigs provide a competitive advantage, allowing them to dominate smaller males. In contrast, larger males with symmetrical forceps were unable to overcome smaller males with more asymmetric forceps.
Scientists have created a preconcentrator device that can increase levels of TNT and related explosives by 1,000 times in under one minute. The device uses a molecular sieve membrane to trap molecules of explosives, making them detectable in previously undetectable concentrations.
A chemical sensing system developed by UConn researchers can detect ultra-trace levels of explosive vapors and buried explosives using a fluorescent nanofiberous film. The system has excellent sensitivity against common interferences and can detect elements at levels as low as 10 parts per billion (TNT).
A new study puts finishing touches on the history of the 'Bay of the Pirates' warship's beak-like weapon, identifying a major threat to preserving it. The analysis revealed that the ancient wooden marine treasure is made of pine with waterproofing agents and contains copious sulfur that can turn into corrosive acid.
The Office of Naval Research is developing a solid-state laser weapon prototype with multi-mission capabilities. The program aims to provide Sailors with a non-lethal defense against small boat threats and aerial targets.
The Urban Blast Tool uses pre-calculated pressure loads to predict damage patterns in surrounding areas, enabling first responders to prioritize their activities. The tool can calculate the initial blast loads in fine detail and store those results for later use.
Researchers obtained full DNA profiles from eight backpacks containing pipe bombs and matched them with volunteers who handled the bags for a week. This method, called consensus profiling, can help rule out DNA traces from others.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has successfully tested a new precision-guided weapon prototype, known as the Low-Cost Imaging Terminal Seeker (LCITS). LCITS enables unguided rockets to automatically compute and home in on targets after launch, providing naval aviators with a new lethal capability.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed synthetic helix-shaped molecules that target MRSA and E-coli with low toxicity. The 'flexicates' harness chirality to create targeted treatments.
A new study led by San Francisco State University's Daniel Bernardi aims to track rumors and identify those with the power to become weapons in counterinsurgency operations. The team will develop a database of rumors that could undermine efforts in Afghanistan.
A new laser technology has been developed by Michigan State University researchers to detect roadside bombs with high sensitivity and selectivity. The laser can canvas large areas and distinguish between explosives and similar compounds, making it a potential game-changer for detecting improvised explosive devices.
A study published in The Lancet found that suicide bombs caused 19% of civilian casualties, with a high injury-to-killed ratio for women and children. Coalition soldiers accounted for fewer casualties than civilians, highlighting the devastating impact on Iraqi civilians.
A new device, developed by Scottish researchers, can reliably detect explosive vapors using a compact silicon-based micro-system. The device measures the change in electron lifetime, less affected by environmental factors, making it more reliable than previous devices.
A University of Illinois professor chaired a committee that recommends providing at least 50% of normal caloric intake, including higher protein, to reduce inflammation and promote brain repair in TBI patients. The guidelines aim to improve recovery rates for veterans and individuals with other traumatic brain injuries.
A study analyzing Iraqi civilian deaths between 2003-2008 found that unknown perpetrators inflicted most of the violence, including extrajudicial executions and suicide bombs. The 'Dirty War Index' highlights the impact on vulnerable subgroups like women and children.
A new underwater warfare model has been developed by Korean researchers, using the DEVS formalism, to analyze the effectiveness of various tactics and weapon systems in combat scenarios. The model provides a flexible framework for testing different algorithms and parameters with minimal modification.
Researchers at NC State aim to create a portable device using sound waves to identify landmines, roadside bombs, and suicide bombers. The project seeks to advance understanding of how sound interacts with the environment, which could have significant humanitarian applications.
The US is facing a potential supply crisis due to China's monopoly on 17 key elements essential for various industries, including computer hard drives and military weapons. To address this issue, plans are being developed to resume production at the Mountain Pass mine in southern California.
The Low-Cost Imaging Terminal Seeker (LCITS) technology can swiftly engage and defeat multiaxis attacks by small swarming boats, increasing the number of targets that can be engaged in a short amount of time. LCITS successfully concluded its program, paving the way for its transition to the fleet.
The Optical Dynamic Detection (ODD) solution uses precise laser pulses to detect explosive materials, providing greater accuracy than spectroscopy-based methods. By amplifying return signals and reducing background noise, ODD helps identify threats more effectively.
Researchers found that gossip in formal settings is often veiled criticism, but can be redirected by changing the subject or targeting another colleague. The study also identified subtle ways that people who are targets of gossip are negatively evaluated during meetings.
Researchers discovered seven new species of swimming worms in the deep sea, including 'green bombers' that release bioluminescent displays for defense. The discovery sheds light on evolutionary adaptations and challenges faced by these unique organisms.
The university will lead a project to analyze and model initiatives to defeat improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world. The research aims to understand how IEDs are used as a weapon of strategic influence and develop practical ways to counteract them.
New findings show that marine life closest to unexploded bombs from WWII-era vessel USS Killen have high levels of carcinogenic materials. Data gathered since 1999 indicates a significant correlation between the proximity of corals, sea urchins, and other marine species to munitions and elevated cancer rates among local residents.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) showcased its technology investments to reduce the weight of Marine Corps equipment by up to 30%. New technologies aim to improve body armor, helmets, vehicles, and communications equipment. ONR's goal is to increase mobility and survivability for Marines.
Researchers at Yale University have identified a naturally occurring molecule called NAPEs that can help regulate appetite and reduce food intake in rats and mice. The study found that NAPEs injections led to weight loss and reduced activity of hunger neurons in the brain.
A University of Missouri engineer is working to enhance the accuracy of a landmine radar system while minimizing false alarms. He aims to create consistent radar signature patterns for landmines, differentiating them from clutter objects, to increase detection rates and reduce unnecessary military interventions.
Researchers at UC San Diego are using statistical pattern recognition and image processing to help the U.S. military better detect hidden roadside explosives. They aim to identify suspicious objects like camouflaged bombs using visible and infrared images analyzed by algorithms.
The development of autonomous robot weapons is a growing concern, with the US DoD planning to spend an estimated $24 billion on unmanned systems technology. Professor Noel Sharkey warns that these robots could become a standard terrorist weapon, replacing suicide bombers.
Researchers found that juvenile mice responded more damagingly to low-dose external radiation than adult mice, indicating potential long-term harm. The study aims to develop biomarkers for treating radiation poisoning and predicting health risks in mass casualty events.
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that over half of households in displaced areas experienced human rights violations, leading to high mortality rates, infectious morbidity, and malnutrition. The survey revealed a five-fold increase in death risk among children under five years old in households with multiple human rights abuses.
Bill Dunn, a K-State associate professor of mechanical and nuclear engineering, has developed a device that can detect explosives remotely using gamma and neutron radiation pulses. The device aims to improve bomb detection safety without putting people at risk by getting too close to suspicious containers.
A new partnership between Roots of Peace and Conservation International aims to remove landmines from critical access corridors used by elephants in Angola, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia. The project will create a conservation and development area, promoting sustainable reserve and ecotourism programs.
Researchers analyze data from the 2003 Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey to examine the relationship between in-group pride and out-group prejudice. They find that Catholics are less likely to feel proud of the Union flag, while Protestants tend to identify more strongly with their religious group.
Researchers will use the simulator to test and validate computer tools for designing blast-resistant buildings. The blast simulator recreates explosive shock waves through servo-controlled hydraulic actuators, allowing for controlled tests of high-risk structures.
E-mail cluster bombs can overwhelm victims' inboxes and cell phones with thousands of unwanted messages. Computer scientist Filippo Menczer proposes fixing the problem by changing web forms to prompt subscribers to send their own confirmations.
The reconnaissance round is a novel device that allows infantry soldiers to see past obstacles from a vertical perspective. It transmits images of nearby terrain back to a laptop computer, enabling soldiers to view the enemy's position in real-time.
Richard W. Rees, a Wilmington researcher, has been awarded the Hero of Chemistry title by the American Chemical Society for his work on laminated safety glass technology that protects people from flying glass shards and other debris in explosions.
James R. Moran, a fellow at Solutia Inc., has developed a laminated safety glass that can absorb blast pressure and energy, protecting people from flying glass shards and debris in explosions. This technology was recognized by the American Chemical Society's Heroes of Chemistry program for its contribution to improving public safety.
New research reveals that a biological arms race occurs between males and females in reproduction, with sex-specific traits leading to balanced conflicts. The study shows that the arms race is indeed balanced but not perfectly so, with some species experiencing high rates of costly matings.
Swager's innovative use of active plastics has led to the development of a highly sensitive plastic landmine detector, outperforming even trained dogs. His research also focuses on creating molecular wires with conductive molecules and insulation.
Quantum Magnetics Inc. is adapting nuclear quadrupole resonance technology for landmine detection in a portable detector for U.S. marines and a vehicle-mounted system for the U.S. Army. The technology was originally developed for explosives and narcotics detection, with successful demonstrations at airport operations.
Sandia National Laboratories and University of Montana researchers are training bees to detect buried landmines by tracking their behavior and analyzing pollen samples. The goal is to create a reliable and inexpensive method for detecting mines, which could help protect thousands of acres of uncharted land and prevent injuries.
Researchers in Missouri have designed a bullet that emits a powerful radar pulse as it grinds to a halt, allowing for the detection of landmines without stepping on them. This technology can help geologists survey for oil, minerals, and other buried natural resources, and may be used to locate mines in remote areas.
Researchers have developed a system that detects trace amounts of TNT in seafloor sludge, enabling the identification of unexploded bombs. This technology could save time and resources in cleaning up sites contaminated with live explosives.