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Better material insights with gentle e-beams

Researchers have developed a new method using gentle e-beams to study electron collisions with liquids, recording 2-dimensional spectra of molecules and measuring electronic excitation. This approach has shown promising results in evaluating quantum theoretical methods and may help identify alternatives to the greenhouse gas SF6.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 21, 2016

Cats seem to grasp the laws of physics

Researchers at Kyoto University found that cats use causal logic to infer object presence based on sounds. The study revealed cats' expectations are shaped by what they hear, enabling them to predict prey locations.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateJun 14, 2016

Revisiting trajectories at the quantum scale

A new paper by Holger Hofmann reveals that quantum particles' motion is not deterministic and emerges only at the macroscopic limit. The Heisenberg uncertainty principle prevents the observation of trajectories, leading to a fundamental scale where classical physics breaks down.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 7, 2016

New approach to nuclear structure, freely available

A new approach to nuclear structure calculations uses relative coordinates to describe quantum mechanical states of nuclei, reducing complexity and computational power required. This method enables other groups to perform their own nuclear structure calculations with limited resources.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateJun 1, 2016

Springer to launch the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement

The Journal of Cognitive Enhancement will investigate how social cognitive processes can be enhanced through various methods, including meditation, video games, and cognitive training. Research in this area aims to delay cognitive decline in the elderly, reducing welfare costs and improving overall quality of life.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·DateJun 1, 2016

Fiddler crabs' 'Morse code' attracts Mrs. Right

Male fiddler crabs produce female-luring vibrations in their burrows, serving as a type of 'Morse code' that females decipher to learn about suitors. The length and interval of pulses convey information on male characteristics, influencing female decision-making during mating.

Traveling wave drives magnetic particles

Scientists develop new method to control magnetic particles of two distinct sizes suspended in liquid, forming channels that drive small particles along, improving sorting and lab-on-a-chip device functionality.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 23, 2016

How repeated spot microdischarges damage microdevices

Researchers found that repeated spot microdischarges in microelectronic devices cause a temperature increase, which reduces the electric field and leads to preferential breakdown at the previous discharge location. This study provides insights into the role of residual heat build-up and its impact on device stability.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateMay 18, 2016

Bending hot molecules

A novel study reveals a method for controlling hot molecule reactions using precise temperature modulation and degree of bending. The researchers found that resonant energy positions decrease as molecular bending increases, affecting interaction likelihood with electrons.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateMay 18, 2016

Hedgehogs are indeed not so widespread in England any more

A recent 'HogWatch' survey conducted in England has provided new insights into the country's declining hedgehog population. The study suggests a moderate decline of up to 7.4% in areas frequented by hedgehogs, with possible constraints due to habitat fragmentation.

SourceSpringer·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·DateMay 12, 2016

Nuclear physics' interdisciplinary progress

Nuclear physicists can extend methods and observations from solid state physics to study the atomic nucleus. This collaboration has led to new understanding of Cooper pair tunneling, a phenomenon not possible in solid state physics. The authors encourage further interdisciplinarity to enrich nuclear physics research.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateMay 10, 2016

Antarctic whales and the krill they eat

A study in the Western Antarctic sector found that fin and humpback whales do not share the same habitat or feeding grounds. The two whale species are instead connected to different krill species, with Euphausia superba being the primary source of food for both.

SourceSpringer·JournalPolar Biology·DateMay 9, 2016

The social lives of the elderly mirror how they grow older

Researchers found that smaller, more interconnected social networks are associated with early signs of cognitive decline. Participants with mild cognitive impairment or dementia had a higher proportion of relatives in their networks and less socialization with friends and neighbors.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 2, 2016

Underwater archaeology looks at atomic relic of the Cold War

The article discusses the recent declassification of documents on the USS Independence, a World War II aircraft carrier used as a target in the first atomic bomb tests. The documents provide insight into the ship's post-Bikini history, including radiation levels and decisions to remove contaminated fuel oil.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Maritime Archaeology·DateApr 28, 2016

Presidential elections: Electoral College increases ad spending in typical election

A study published in Springer's journal Quantitative Marketing and Economics found that the Electoral College system increases advertising spending in typical presidential elections. The researchers modeled voters' decisions using a simple aggregate market share model and found that advertising would be spread more evenly across states...

SourceSpringer·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·DateApr 18, 2016

Tumble-proof cargo transporter in biological cells

Researchers have developed a new model of molecular transport using synthetic nanomotors on biopolymer filaments, effectively delivering substances such as anti-cancer drugs. The study's findings suggest that even small motors can operate efficiently without tumbling and losing direction.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateApr 12, 2016

Older men who purchase sex do so more frequently as they age

A survey of older American men who frequent sex work websites found that those over 60 paid for sex more frequently as they aged. The study also revealed that these men sought out specific experiences, such as the 'girlfriend experience', and were willing to pay for non-sexual activities with providers.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateApr 6, 2016

Fighting fiddler crabs call each other's bluff

Male fiddler crabs use deception to their favour by blurring the line between original and regrown claws. They adapt their combat strategies based on claw strength, opting for smaller opponents with weakened regrown claws to avoid injury.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 5, 2016

Back to basics with thermoelectric power

Researchers found that electron diffusivity plays a crucial role in harnessing thermoelectric power from waste heat. The study sheds light on the fundamental physical process behind this phenomenon.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateApr 5, 2016

Harlequin ladybirds are conquering the world at great speed

Global research collaborations study harlequin ladybird's invasion history and ecology, highlighting its ability to thrive in various habitats. Citizen science projects provide valuable information on the spread of invasive alien species, inspiring new approaches to surveying and monitoring.

SourceSpringer·JournalBiological Invasions·DateMar 31, 2016

Timeless thoughts on the definition of time

The earliest definitions of time were based on observed astronomical phenomena, while modern times are derived from atomic properties. The paper reveals how these definitions have evolved over time, highlighting the connection between astronomic and atomic time.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateMar 24, 2016

Electronic counterpart to ecological models revealed

Researchers developed an electronic version of a logistic map that can interact with multiple maps, making it scalable. The model allows for the comparison of previous computer simulations with experimental results using state-of-the-art technology.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMar 24, 2016

Fish bond when they eat the same food

Researchers found that fish from different species associate with each other when they share the same food, suggesting a role for chemical cues in group bonding. This study suggests that shared dietary preferences may be a key factor in promoting social learning and information transfer among fish.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMar 22, 2016

Research proves it -- the smell of alcohol makes it hard to resist

A study published in Psychopharmacology found that the smell of alcohol can reduce a person's ability to inhibit their behavior, particularly when it comes to pressing buttons. The researchers, led by Dr. Rebecca Monk, used a computer-based experiment to test this hypothesis and found significant evidence supporting their claim.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateMar 17, 2016

What incentives work best to get a team to exercise more?

A study by Mitesh Patel found that combining individual and team incentives led to a significant increase in physical activity. Participants who received rewards for both individual and team performance averaged more steps per day than those with individual-only rewards.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2016

Which neuron is more mature? Single cell transcriptome knows!

Researchers have identified 39 generic biomarkers for human neuronal maturation using single cell transcriptome profiling. The study found that certain genes are consistently elevated when neurons mature, highlighting the importance of calcium signaling, mitochondrial function, and ubiquitination-related processes.

SourceSpringer·JournalProtein & Cell·DateMar 14, 2016

How to make porous materials dry faster

Researchers found that subtle changes in the air-water interface shape near the surface of capillaries significantly impact drying rates. By controlling microstructure, drying time can be improved. The study's findings could lead to more efficient porous materials for various industries.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 9, 2016

New insights into the evaporation patterns of coffee stains

Researchers have elucidated new factors influencing particle deposition via solvent evaporation, crucial for microchip production. The study found that interplay between solvent convection and nanoparticle collective diffusion governs particle recede at contact lines.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 9, 2016

Violin varnish: Key to a fiddle's tone

Researchers found that varnish increases damping throughout the wood surface, leading to a more isotropic sound radiation. The type of varnish used can also affect the sound, with German master violin makers' varnishes producing a louder tone.

Size not such a big thing for seed bugs

Researchers found that processus length is crucial during mating for seed bugs, particularly when a rival male is present, and bigger isn't always better. Males with medium-length processus are most likely to fertilise female eggs successfully.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMar 3, 2016

When liquids get up close and personal with powders

Researchers from ESPCI, France, have spent ten years studying the wetting of soluble polymer substrates by droplets of solvents. They found that spontaneous imbibition is stopped due to a change in material softness as the solvent melts the polymer, slowing down the spreading of the droplet.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 3, 2016

Scrutinizing the tip of molecular probes

Researchers used infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry to study the interaction between probe molecules and oxide surfaces. They found that surface layers behave like glass-forming liquids, with density and dynamic behavior influencing interactions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateMar 3, 2016