Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2014 - Page 12


Page 12 of 34

Law of physics governs airplane evolution

A study by Adrian Bejan explains how the constructal law governs the evolution of passenger jets, from small propeller-driven planes to modern behemoths. The analysis provides insights into successful design features and constraints that dictate airplane performance.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 22, 2014

Bats use polarized light to navigate

Scientists have discovered that greater mouse-eared bats use polarization patterns in the sky to navigate, calibrating their internal magnetic compass. The bats' ability to detect polarised light remains a mystery, but researchers hope this breakthrough will aid in protecting declining bat populations.

SourceNatural Environment Research Council·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 22, 2014

Self-cooling solar cells boost power, last longer

Researchers have developed a self-cooling method for solar cells using silica glass to reduce overheating, improving efficiency and lifespan. The design enhances infrared 'window' through Earth's atmosphere to redirect excess heat away from the solar cell.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 22, 2014

Distinctive developmental origin for a drainage tube in the eye

A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals that Schlemm's canal forms from blood vessels through a novel process called canalogenesis. This discovery sheds light on the complex functions of Schlemm's canal, which plays a critical role in maintaining ocular health and preventing diseases like glaucoma.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 22, 2014

Room for improvement in elementary school children's lunches and snacks from home

A study conducted by researchers at Tufts University found that only 27% of elementary school children's lunches met federal guidelines for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low- or non-fat dairy. The researchers also found that snacks from home were often high in sugar and calories, with few students drinking water instead of suga...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 22, 2014

Largest genetic survey to date shows major success of giant panda breeding programs

A comprehensive genetic survey of captive giant pandas reveals high levels of diversity and low inbreeding rates, indicating a healthy population. The study's findings suggest that captive breeding centers can successfully release pandas into the wild with proper selection criteria.

New York squirrels are nuts about city life

Research shows eastern grey squirrels modify their behaviour when approached by humans, reducing unnecessary responses and improving urban survival. The study highlights the importance of understanding animal adaptations to urbanization, enabling conservation efforts and habitat management.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateJul 22, 2014

New water balance calculation for the Dead Sea

Researchers calculate that the eastern, Jordanian side of the Dead Sea will experience a dramatic reduction in natural replenishment rate of groundwater if precipitation lowers as predicted. This could lead to shortages in water resources, affecting not only agriculture but also the growing population, with serious social and economic ...

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 22, 2014

The Optical Society launches Optica

The Optical Society's new open-access journal Optica publishes highest-impact research in optics and photonics. Key findings include the development of self-cooling solar cells, observation of rotational Doppler shift in white light, and precision time measurement on a silicon chip.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 22, 2014