The role of history in how efficient color names evolve
In a new study, biology and psychology researchers show how existing color vocabularies constrain future options for efficient color vocabularies.
Science & Technology
Hurricanes and power grids: Eliminating large-scale outages with a new approach
Large scale-power outages caused by tropical cyclones can be prevented almost entirely if a small but critical set of power lines is protected against storm damages, a new study finds. Scientists developed a new method that can be used to identify thos…
Tiny magnetic particles in air pollution linked to development of Alzheimer’s
Magnetite, a particle found in air pollution, can induce signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, new research suggests.
New role for bacterial enzyme in gut metabolism revealed
Bile acids long have been known to play a role in human metabolism. Synthesized from cholesterol in the liver, bile acids are involved in digestive processes, particularly in absorbing fat. They also are modified extensively by bacteria, which greatly …
Does trying to look younger reduce how much ageism older adults face?
Every year, millions of older Americans spend money and time to try to look younger than they are. They color graying hair, buy anti-balding products, use teeth whiteners and wrinkle fillers, and much more. Now, a new study looks at what this kind of e…
Mercury rising: Study sheds new light on ancient volcanoes’ environmental impact
Massive volcanic events in Earth’s history that released large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere frequently correlate with periods of severe environmental change and mass extinctions. A new method to estimate how much and how rapidly carbon was rel…
Scientists identify new ‘regulatory’ function of learning and memory gene common to all mammalian brain cells
Neuroscientists say they have found a new function for the SYNGAP1 gene, a DNA sequence that controls memory and learning in mammals, including mice and humans.
Climate change disrupts seasonal flow of rivers
Climate change is disrupting the seasonal flow of rivers in the far northern latitudes of America, Russia and Europe and is posing a threat to water security and ecosystems, according to new research.
Improving energy security with policies focused on demand-side solutions
Energy systems essential to supporting our everyday activities face increasing threats from wars, pandemics, climate change, and other unexpected events. An international team of researchers found that demand-oriented solutions have a significantly gre…
Cyber-physical heating system may protect apple blossoms in orchards
Spring frosts can have devastating effects on apple production, and a warming climate may be causing trees to blossom early, making them more susceptible to the damaging effects of extreme cold events. Growers’ attempts to prevent the flowers from free…