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Score (98)
Hiker stumbles upon ancient animal tracks, hinting at prehistoric ecosystem
A couple's summer hike in the Italian Alps led to an incredible discovery of prehistoric footprints from reptiles and amphibians dating back over 250 million years. Scientists uncovered a rich collection of fossilized footprints found by the hikers, shedding light on an ancient ecosystem before dinosaurs roamed the Earth. The prints were preserved by petrification in sediments, revealing intricate details like animal skin imprints.
Score (94)
New Roadmap Paves Way for Nuclear-Powered Spaceships in 2030s
A consortium of companies has just completed the initial phase of a groundbreaking 11-year project called RocketRoll, aiming to launch the first nuclear-powered space cargo ship. This project sets the stage for a futuristic mission concept that could revolutionize how we power space technologies. RocketRoll establishes a roadmap for advanced propulsion systems, paving the way for nuclear options in long-duration space missions.
Score (97)
Helene Survivors Spread Holiday Cheer with Operation Christmas Child Donation
Operation Christmas Child, a program by Samaritan's Purse, aims to bring joy to 12 million children worldwide this holiday season. Volunteers are filling shoeboxes with essentials and toys for kids facing adversity. Despite challenges from Hurricane Helene, Samaritan's Purse continues relief efforts in North Carolina. Communities affected by the storm remain committed to spreading Christmas cheer through this heartwarming initiative.
Score (96)
Moon Bounce Challenge Helps These University Students Shine Bright
Six university teams recently showcased their innovative inflatable systems for lunar operations at NASA's 2024 BIG Idea Challenge forum after months of hard work and dedication. This year, the focus was on developing low Size, Weight, and Power technologies to support future Artemis missions to the Moon. Northwestern University took home the prestigious Artemis Award for their METALS concept, while Arizona State University won the Systems Engineering prize for AEGIS. The forum also provided students with a chance to engage directly with NASA.
Score (97)
Abuse survivor creates app to send secret alerts through household devices
A domestic abuse survivor has created an app called Ask Joan that sends secret alerts through everyday appliances like kettles and hair straighteners. By analyzing unusual electricity surges, the app can discreetly notify friends, family members, and the police in threatening situations. After testing with 20 women and receiving positive feedback, Katy Longhurst hopes her invention will help prevent others from experiencing what she went through. Longhurst says she's excited to see how her solution can make a difference for victims of domestic abuse.
Score (95)
NYU Researchers Develop 'Smart Crystals' to Combat Water Scarcity
In a world where nearly four billion people lack access to clean water, researchers have developed Janus crystals that can harvest water from fog without any energy input. Inspired by desert flora and fauna, these crystals contain hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties that attract and collect moisture from the air. Published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, this innovation offers a promising solution to combat water scarcity on a societal level.
Score (95)
Earpiece Microphones Could Detect Early Signs of Dementia, Study Finds
New research suggests that earpiece microphones could help detect early signs of dementia by monitoring eye movements for neurological decay. Scientists from Canada and the US are exploring this innovative technology to spot Alzheimer's disease, which affects over 50 million people worldwide with no known cure. By picking up on changes in eye movements, these earpiece microphones may offer a non-invasive way to continuously monitor for Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders.
Score (97)
NASA Program Launches "Out of This World" Support for Young Patients
NASA has launched a new video series, "MISSION: All Systems GO!", to help pediatric patients in medical treatment centers across the US. The project aims to reduce anxiety and stress by drawing parallels between an astronaut's experience and the challenges faced during treatment. This initiative is part of the federal government's Cancer Moonshot Initiative, with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasizing the agency's commitment to improving patient experiences.
Score (98)
Stranger's Kind Words Lift Mom's Spirits at Grocery Store
In a heartwarming tale, a new mom struggling with the challenges of motherhood receives unexpected kindness from a stranger at a restaurant. The woman not only praised her beautiful family but also acknowledged her efforts as a mom, bringing tears to the young mother's eyes. Nearly 10 years later, Emma Carlson Berne says she still cherishes this memory and is grateful for being seen during those early days of motherhood when she often felt invisible.
Score (92)
Lost and Found: "Irreplaceable" Teddy Bears Reunited with This Widow
Two "completely irreplaceable" teddy bears, made from the late husband's ties, were found in Scotland after going missing in the post on their way to Devon. The emotional reunion took place after they were discovered at a mail depot. Royal Mail staff had been searching for them since early October and finally located them with tracking and a signature. Mrs Taylor says she was overjoyed to have her precious bears back and shared tears of happiness with her postwoman upon opening the package.