Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 21


Page 21 of 40

Merging neutron stars

Research groups calculate the signature of a phase transition in gravitational waves emitted by merging neutron stars, which could reveal the presence of quark matter. A phase transition may occur when densities exceed atomic nuclei and temperatures reach 10,000 times those in the Sun's core.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 14, 2019

Companies with more financial analysts produce more and better-quality patents

Researchers from UC3M and UAB found that companies with more financial analysts are more likely to acquire innovative companies, make corporate venture capital investments, and reduce internal R&D expenses. This leads to a better allocation of R&D resources, an increase in the number of patents, and improvement in their quality.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateFeb 14, 2019

To tool or not to tool?

Researchers studied tool-related decision-making in orangutans and found they carefully considered factors like tool functionality and food quality. The apes chose the tool when it worked with the apparatus, but prioritized immediate food rewards if the tool was non-functional.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 14, 2019

Study affirms self-reported sleep duration as a useful health measure in children

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that self-reported sleep parameters reported by children and their parents are relatively accurate compared to objective measures. Children overestimated their sleep duration by a median of 32 minutes, while parents overestimated it by 36 minutes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2019

Super-light, super-insulating ceramic aerogel keeps the hottest temperatures at bay

Researchers developed a near-weightless material with exceptional structural stability and superinsulation, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. The unique ceramic aerogel features unusual double-negative-index properties, demonstrating robustness against high-temperature exposure and rapid temperature swings.

US older women three times as likely to be treated for osteoporosis as men

Research published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found that US older women are three times more likely to receive treatment for osteoporosis than men of similar age. Men aged 80+ were particularly under-screened and undertreated, with only 10-13% having a bone density scan and fewer than 1 in 10 treated with bisphosphonates.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2019

The ways of wisdom in schizophrenia

Researchers found that nearly one-third of persons with schizophrenia had 'normal' wisdom scores, which correlated with fewer psychotic symptoms, improved cognitive performance, and enhanced everyday functioning. Assessing and enhancing wisdom may help improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateFeb 14, 2019