Reluctant hero?
Male cleaner wrasse aggressively chase females who cheat clients, protecting their own dinner interests. This behavior, similar to human 'Robin Hood' tendencies, may not be as charitable as thought.
Fire
Articles tagged with Fire
Wild chimps have near human understanding of fire, says study by Iowa State's Pruetz
Savanna chimpanzees in Senegal exhibit predictive behavior towards seasonal fires, avoiding the fire as it approaches. Researchers interpret this behavior as a cognitive stage similar to human understanding of fire control. The study provides insight into how early human ancestors may have developed fire control abilities.
Peat fires drive temperatures up
The study found that peatland fires in Indonesia released up to 900 million metric tons of CO2 in 2006, equivalent to 16% of deforestation worldwide emissions. Peatlands store enormous amounts of organic carbon, and human activities like drainage and deforestation make them vulnerable to fire.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 2009
Mercyhurst seeks to enhance protocols for recovery and analysis of burned human remains
A Mercyhurst forensic anthropology team conducts a mock excavation to test methods for recovering burned human remains from fatal fire scenes. The project aims to improve protocols for optimal scene recovery and laboratory analysis.
Navy researchers apply science to fire fighting
Navy scientists have successfully tested high expansion foam as a fire suppression system, finding it effective in fighting fires in obstructed spaces. The Navy is also developing alternative firefighting agents, including propelled extinguishing agent technology (PEAT), to replace halon systems and provide weight-saving options for fu...
Jumping on the bandwagon
The US Department of Homeland Security's new multi-band radio technology aims to improve communication among first responders during emergencies. The radios can work on five frequency bands currently used by state and local first responders, as well as four exclusive federal government bands.
Trees facilitate wildfires as a way to protect their habitat
Researchers found that some trees promote fires to limit competition from better tree species, stabilizing savanna ecosystems. Savanna trees like longleaf pine shed needles, providing fuel for frequent low-intensity fires.
U-M discovery about biological clocks overturns long-held theory
University of Michigan mathematicians have identified the signal sent by the brain to control biological rhythms, a finding that challenges the long-held theory about our internal clock. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in treating sleep problems and diseases influenced by the internal clock.
Electrosurgical devices, lasers cited as most common igniters of operating room fires
Research at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting found that electrosurgical units, lasers, and light cords are common igniters of operating room fires. The study, which surveyed 349 otolaryngologists, revealed that nearly 80% of fires occurred when supplemental oxygen was being used.
Plants' response to fire tested
Researchers have developed a new device to measure plant species' flammability, allowing for improved fire risk maps. The technique measures combustion speed and heat emitted during burning, providing more accurate data than existing methods.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Fire Sciences·DateSep 24, 2009
New stove dramatically improves lung health in Mexican women
A recent study found that using a vented stove instead of traditional indoor open fires significantly improves respiratory health in Mexican women. The study showed that women who used the Patsari stove had improved lung function and reduced symptoms compared to those who used open wood fires.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 23, 2009
Early modern humans use fire to engineer tools from stone
Researchers discovered that early modern humans employed pyrotechnology to increase the quality and efficiency of their stone tool manufacturing process, requiring complex cognition and possibly language. The technology transformed a poor-quality stone into an excellent raw material for highly advanced tools.
Scientists expect wildfires to increase as climate warms in the coming decades
Scientists predict a significant rise in wildfires across the western United States due to climate warming, leading to decreased air quality and negative impacts on human health. The predicted area burned by wildfires could increase by 50% by the 2050s, with the greatest increases occurring in the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains.
High-tech vehicle design boosts emergency rescue capacity
The EUREKA project has developed a high-tech polyvalent rescue vehicle that can carry up to four patients while providing easy and safe operation, as well as simple cleaning and disinfection. The new design surpasses current safety standards significantly, offering a weight reduction of up to 50% compared to previous products.
Forest fire prevention efforts will lessen carbon sequestration, add to greenhouse warming
New research from Oregon State University finds that fuel reduction treatments in Pacific Northwest forests may reduce carbon sequestration and worsen greenhouse warming. The study suggests that these efforts could lead to a net loss of carbon storage, even if biofuels are used to produce energy.
Fire mitigation work in western US misplaced, says new study led by CU-Boulder
A new study led by CU-Boulder found that only 11% of fuel-reduction activities took place within 1.5 miles of the wildland-urban interface, where fires pose the greatest risk to homes and people. The research suggests federal wildfire treatments are minimally effective at mitigating wildfire threat.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009
Spring agricultural fires have large impact on melting Arctic
Scientists from the POLARCAT campaign found that agricultural fires in Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and other countries are releasing large amounts of soot into the atmosphere, accelerating melting of snow and ice. This report highlights the importance of controlling these emissions as a supplemental strategy to reduce carbon dioxide.
Fire and water reveal new archaeological dating method
Scientists have developed a new dating technique using fire and water to determine the age of ceramic artifacts up to 2,000 years old. The 'rehydroxylation dating' method relies on the reaction between fired clay ceramics and atmospheric moisture, which causes weight gain over time.
Human role in Indonesian polluting forest fires -- Guido van der Werf in Nature Geoscience
The study reveals that human activities are directly linked to the intensity of forest fires in Indonesia, with population density and land use being key factors. The research also highlights the impact of climate change and other meteorological phenomena on fire frequency and severity.
High rise fire study provides insight into deadly wind-driven fires
Researchers at NIST conducted experiments on wind-driven fires in high-rise buildings, finding that conditions can quickly spread smoke, heat, and gases through hallways and stairwells. Techniques such as blocking windows with fire-resistant materials and using 'floor below nozzle' systems showed promise in reducing hazardous conditions.
Plants could override climate change effects on wildfires
A new study finds that changes in vegetation can have a profound impact on fire occurrences, often overriding the effects of climate change. The research suggests that vegetation can alter the direct link between fuels and climate.
Potentially harmful chemicals found in forest fire smoke
A study by PNNL researchers found that smoldering fires produce more toxins than wildfires, which can affect aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The discovery also suggests that smoke may play a role in transporting biologically useful nitrogen through the environment.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 29, 2009
Fire influences global warming more than previously thought
A new report reveals that fire influences global warming more than previously thought, with human-caused fires contributing significantly to the greenhouse effect. The study estimates that deforestation due to burning by humans releases an amount of carbon dioxide equal to 50% of fossil fuel combustion.
Plants could override climate change effects on wildfires
A new study led by Montana State University researcher Philip Higuera finds that changes in vegetation can either reduce or increase the risk of wildfires, even under climate change. The research suggests that considering vegetation's impact on fire regimes is crucial for predicting future wildfire patterns.
Plants could override climate change effects on wildfires
A new study found that changes in vegetation can override climate change effects on wildfire frequency. Plant types and abundance play a significant role in determining an ecosystem's flammability. In some cases, vegetation changes were more influential than climate shifts, leading to fewer fires.
The impact of 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake -- 20 years later
The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake had a profound societal impact, transforming earthquake sciences and engineering. The event led to improved understanding of earthquake processes and triggered major changes in building codes and disaster response.
Climate change to spur rapid shifts in wildfire hotspots
A new study reveals that climate change will bring about major shifts in worldwide fire patterns, with some regions experiencing large increases in fire activity and others decreasing. The research uses thermal-infrared sensor data to identify hotspots of fire invasion forming in parts of the western US and the Tibetan plateau.
Reserves found to be 'effective tool' for reducing fires in Brazilian rainforests
A new study by Duke University researchers found that rainforest reserves provide an effective buffer against fires in the Brazilian Amazon. Despite the presence of roads and settlements, reserves still experience fewer fires than surrounding areas. The study suggests that even inhabited reserves can be effective tools for reducing fires.
Majority of fire and ambulance recruits overweight
A study found that more than 75% of fire and ambulance recruits in Massachusetts are either overweight or obese, compromising their ability to perform strenuous duties. The researchers associated excess weight with higher blood pressures, worse metabolic profiles, and lower exercise tolerance.
Study reveals fire-related deaths are a leading cause of death in young women in India
A study reveals that fire-related deaths are a major public-health problem in India, with over 163,000 deaths in 2001, mostly among young women. The authors estimate that these deaths are six times higher than reported by the police and suggest common causes including kitchen accidents, self-immolation, and domestic violence.
Atmospheric scientists trace the human role in Indonesian forest fires
A new study by University of Toronto scientists links Indonesian forest fires to changes in land use and population density, revealing a direct impact on haze disasters and greenhouse gas emissions.
Accidental wireless
A wireless Java-enabled system can automatically call emergency services after a rollover accident, potentially saving lives. The system uses inexpensive sensors to detect the type of accident and provides crucial information for response specialists.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Defence Support Systems·DateFeb 9, 2009
Violent computer games have role in fire safety
Researchers at Durham University found that commercial violent computer games can be used to build virtual worlds for training in fire evacuation procedures. The study showed that using game code from First Person Shooter games is quicker and more efficient than traditional virtual reality toolkits.
Charcoal evidence tracks climate changes in Younger Dryas
A new study finds clear links between abrupt climate changes and fire activity during the transition between the last Ice Age and the warm interglacial period. Biomass burning tracked general climate changes closely, increasing as conditions warmed and decreasing during the cool interval.
Comet impact theory disproved
New research published today disproves the recent comet impact theory that triggered continent-wide wildfires in North America 12,900 years ago. The study found no evidence for large-scale fires across the continent but supports a link between global warming and increased wildfires globally.
Native lizards evolve to escape attacks by fire ants
Researchers found that native fence lizards are adapting to fire ant attacks by developing twitching behavior, running away, and longer hind legs. Lizards from sites invaded longest were more likely to perform these survival behaviors.
WPI receives key sponsorship, $100,000 pledge for new fire sciences laboratory from RJA
WPI will support teaching and research programs in fire protection engineering with the new facility. The university is home to the world's leading graduate program in fire protection engineering.
Global warming aided by drought, deforestation link
A recent study analyzing satellite data reveals a significant link between drought and deforestation in equatorial Asia, leading to increased global warming. The practice of using fire to clear forests releases substantial amounts of climate-warming carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2008
A 'hole' new way
The Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) is a new concrete-busting technology that has shown faster breach times than traditional methods. It can break through thick concrete walls or barriers in about 13 minutes, compared to 29 minutes or more for other rescue tools.
Where there's wildfire smoke, there's toxicity
A new study analyzing particulate matter from Southern California wildfires confirms that the composition of smoke posed more serious potential threats to health than is generally realized. The study found that fire emissions produce a significantly larger aerosol in size, making it easier for particles to penetrate indoor structures.
Wildfires result in loss of forests reserved by Northwest Forest Plan
A study published in Ecosystems reveals that elevated fire levels outweighed harvest reductions in the loss of older forests in the Pacific Northwest. The NWFP helped stabilize large-diameter forest numbers, but fire was the main reason for their decline.
Book explores global implications of wildland fire smoke
A new book provides a comprehensive overview of air pollution research, focusing on wildland fires' impact on humans and the environment. The 686-page book includes 26 research papers by 85 experts, covering regional perspectives and current tools for managing forests affected by fire and climate change.
Fire out of Africa: A key to the migration of prehistoric man
The discovery of burned flint at Gesher Benot Ya'aqov site pushes back the accepted date for man's fire-making ability by half a million years, indicating that early humans controlled fire from 790,000 years ago. This skill enabled ancient humans to leave their surroundings and populate new environments.
When it comes to forest soil, wildfires pack 1-2 punch
A new study found that wildfires lead to significant losses of carbon and nitrogen in forest soils, with over 10 tons per acre of carbon lost and between 450-620 pounds per acre of nitrogen lost. This can negatively impact soil productivity and contribute to global warming.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalCanadian Journal of Forest Research·DateOct 16, 2008
Wildfires cause ozone pollution to violate health standards, new study shows
A new study by scientists at the National Center for Atmospheric Research finds that wildfires can boost ozone pollution to levels violating US health standards. The research focused on California wildfires in 2007 and found that they repeatedly caused ground-level ozone to spike to unhealthy levels across a broad area.
SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 9, 2008
Study reveals homeowner perceptions in fire-prone areas
A US Forest Service study reveals that most homeowners in fire-prone areas have taken steps to protect their homes, but barriers such as financial constraints and physical limitations persist. The study also found that residents are concerned about fires and think they know how to reduce the threat.
Climate change, human activity and wildfires
A new study by the University of Oregon suggests that climate change has been the main driver of global biomass burning for the past two millennia. Human activities such as land clearance and fire suppression during the industrial era also contributed to a significant decline in wildfires worldwide between 1870 and 1970.
Fires regenerate African grassland
Research in Etosha National Park found periodic fires play a key role in regeneration, breaking up the old grass layer to create opportunities for regrowth. This discovery is significant for managing semi-arid nature reserves where fires are essential for renewing the grass canopy.
Report reveals communication needs, recreation use during fires
The report highlights the importance of real-time information on fire location, size, and movement for effective communication during evacuations. Fire managers can consider providing detailed information about fire regulations to improve visitor perceptions of recreation activities.
Smoke smudges Mexico City's air, chemists identify sources
Researchers used an instrument to track daily patterns in the chemical makeup of Mexico City's smog, identifying aerosols from industrial emissions, fires, and charcoal use. The study provides insights into the sources of persistent pollutants, informing policies to improve air quality.
When neurons fire up: Study sheds light on rhythms of the brain
A new study from Indiana University and the University of Montreal provides a model for understanding random synchronization in brain neurons. The findings suggest that spontaneous neural activity can help the brain remain flexible and responsive to external events, potentially leading to better treatments for conditions like epilepsy.
Saving the wild orchids of Borneo
The American Society for Horticultural Science reports that Borneo is home to 2500-3000 orchid species, but many are endangered due to habitat destruction and over-exploitation. A recent study has identified 197 species of orchids in West Borneo, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these rare species.
NASA responds to California wildfire emergency imaging request
NASA deployed its unmanned Ikhana aircraft to gather information on over 300 wildfires burning in California, providing commanders with location and size data to deploy firefighting assets. The flights use a sophisticated sensor that can detect temperature differences up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Potential dangers faced by narcoleptics who use nicotine outlined in new abstract
A new study highlights the dangers of nicotine use among narcoleptics, who are at a higher risk of burns and nicotine addiction due to excessive sleepiness. The study found that 75% of respondents experienced burns while smoking, and many struggled to quit due to worsening sleepiness.
Mystery of infamous 'New England Dark Day' solved by tree rings
Researchers at University of Missouri use tree rings to determine that massive wildfires in Canada caused the infamous 'New England Dark Day' in 1780. The study combines written accounts and fire scar evidence to provide a scientific explanation for this mysterious event.
Florida EMS and fire vehicles to stock Cyanokit 5g antidote for cyanide poisoning
The Florida Department of Health has approved the use of Cyanokit 5g, a hydroxocobalamin injection, in emergency medical services (EMS) and fire vehicles. This treatment is intended to help first responders quickly respond to suspected cases of cyanide poisoning at the scene of an accident.
Scorched Earth millenium map shows 'fire scars'
A global map shows 'fire scars' on Earth's surface every year since the turn of the Millennium, revealing annual burns of 3.5-4.5 million km2 of vegetation. The data is vital for scientists monitoring global warming and managing forests.
Iraq war service: A risk factor for bronchiolitis?
A large group of soldiers returning from Iraq were diagnosed with bronchiolitis, a disease affecting the small airways of the lung. Prolonged exposure to sulfur dioxide from a mine fire near Mosul, Iraq in 2003 was found to be a major risk factor for the condition.
Study shows power of police and fire officers as injury-prevention messengers
A new study reveals that police and fire officers who give interviews can significantly improve the media's coverage of risk factors and prevention for injuries, accidents, and fires. The study analyzed thousands of hours of local news broadcasts and found that such stories are more likely to include prevention information.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 1, 2008
Playing dead is no game for ant survival
A new study found that young fire ant workers are four times more likely to survive aggressive attacks by pretending to be dead. Sustained movement is necessary to trigger a physical attack. Feigning death allows these young workers to contribute to brood care and colony growth.