Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Springer


Dogs spot the dog

A recent study by Dr. Dominique Autier-Dérian and colleagues found that dogs can form a visual category of dog faces and group pictures of different breeds into a single category. This ability allows dogs to recognize their own species visually, despite the large morphological variability within the dog species.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateFeb 14, 2013

Helping or hovering? A parent's dilemma

A new study shows that college students with overcontrolling parents experience negative well-being outcomes, including depression and decreased life satisfaction. The study suggests that helicopter parenting behaviors can undermine children's autonomy, competence, and social relationships.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·DateFeb 12, 2013

Spotting the invisible cracks in wind turbines

Researchers developed a new analytical method to detect fatigue in wind turbines' parts while the turbine is in operation. This method distinguishes between mechanical properties and interfering noise, enabling precise detection of material fatigue or untightened screws.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateFeb 12, 2013

Nothing fishy about swimming with same-sized mates

Fish can determine their size relative to others using chemical cues alone. This ability helps form groups with strength in numbers, reducing individual risk from predators. The study found that both species used chemical self-referencing to locate similarly sized fish of the same species.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateFeb 6, 2013

Gap geometry grasped

A new algorithm analyzes void space in sphere packing to study the geometry of liquids and their flow through porous media. The method can also be applied to protein structure analysis, revealing key quantities such as buried cavity sizes and solvent accessibility.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateFeb 1, 2013

Simulations' Achille's heel

Computer simulations face challenges when applied to systems of finite size, such as those in crystal or liquid crystals. Additionally, some methods may not accurately compute thermal properties like entropy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateJan 29, 2013

More than 1 brain behind E=mc2

Austrian physicist Friedrich Hasenöhrl's work on blackbody radiation in a cavity may have influenced Einstein's famous equation E=mc2. However, the study also reveals that Hasenöhrl arrived at an incorrect energy/mass correlation due to failing to account for mass loss during radiation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateJan 25, 2013

Liquid crystal's chaotic inner dynamics

Scientists have found a new dynamic process in liquid crystal cells triggered by strong electric fields. The theory of spatio-temporal chaos explains this effect, which affects the electro-optic switching phenomenon used in devices.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJan 24, 2013

Human-tiger conflict: Are the risks overestimated?

A new study published in Springer's Human Ecology journal explores the complex web of factors increasing perceived risk of tiger attack in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh. The researchers found that poverty-related issues, such as low incomes and poor infrastructure, significantly influence villagers' perceptions of risk from tigers.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Ecology·DateJan 21, 2013

Facebook posts not easily forgotten

A new study found that Facebook posts are remarkably memorable, outperforming both human faces and sentences from books in terms of retention. The researchers suggest that this is due to the casual, gossipy language used in microblogs, which taps into people's basic language capacities.

SourceSpringer·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateJan 15, 2013

Fusion helped by collision science

Researchers applied Deutsch–Märk and Binary-Encounter-Bethe methods to beryllium and its derivatives. The calculations provide improved understanding of electron impact ionization cross sections (EICS) for the ITER fusion chamber.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJan 11, 2013

Marriage linked to better survival in middle age

A new study by Dr. Ilene Siegler and colleagues found that having a partner during middle age is protective against premature death. Married individuals had a significantly lower risk of dying early compared to those who never married or lost their partner, even after controlling for personality and health behaviors.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateJan 10, 2013

Targeting use of acid-suppressants in hospital patients

A new study has developed a risk scoring system to identify hospitalized patients at high risk of gastrointestinal bleeds, allowing for targeted use of acid-suppressive medication. The study found that older adults, males, and those with liver disease or clotting disorders are most at risk, enabling clinicians to individualize treatment.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 7, 2013

May the force be with the atomic probe

Theoretical physicists created models to study van der Waals-Casimir-Polder (vdW-CP) force, which depends on electron diffusion. This finding could contribute to designing minimally invasive surface probes for quantum computer hardware architectures.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateDec 21, 2012

Silver sheds light on superconductor secrets

Researchers from the Institute of Solid State Physics found that superconductivity is intrinsic to a bismuth-based layered material when doped with silver. The material's characteristics were measured using x-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, electrical transport, and thermal transport.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 20, 2012

Adhesion disturbed by noise

Researchers found that adding noise to a micro-textured surface can lower the energy barrier for an object to roll, mimicking gecko feet's adhesive properties. This study could lead to applications in gecko-inspired adhesives, tire adhesion, and digital operations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 17, 2012

Aerobic exercise boosts brain power

Aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function in older adults, including task switching, selective attention, and working memory. The evidence suggests that regular physical activity can attenuate age-related decline in these areas, providing a simple means for people to optimize their brain power.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateDec 13, 2012

Words have feelings

A study published in Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience found that emotion in voices enhances initial word recognition, but does not improve long-term memory. The researchers discovered that emotionally intoned speech can lead to the acquisition of emotional value, making words more negatively charged in the mind.

Tracking gene flow in marine plant evolution

Researchers used big data statistical tools to trace directionality in gene migration, finding a westward migration of genes from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. This method can also be applied to estimate information flow in complex networks.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateDec 10, 2012

Don't cut corners when it comes to clean knives

A new study reveals that viruses can be spread through cross-contamination from utensils like knives and graters, posing a significant health risk. The study found that contaminated utensils can transfer viruses to multiple pieces of produce, highlighting the need for emphasis on utensil hygiene.

SourceSpringer·JournalFood and Environmental Virology·DateDec 6, 2012

Working towards happiness

A new study by Dr. Elizabeth Mokyr Horner found that individuals experience a large improvement in well-being and life satisfaction after retirement, but this benefit stabilizes at age 70 regardless of the individual's retirement age. The researcher concludes that well-being may be affected minimally by increasing the retirement age.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateDec 4, 2012

Male chimpanzees choose their allies carefully

A new study reveals that male chimpanzees who form coalitions with males who don't form coalitions themselves are more likely to sire offspring and increase their dominance rank. This suggests that the chimps recognize the value of making strategic social connections.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateDec 3, 2012

Vision stimulates courtship calls in the grey tree frog

A new study published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that male grey tree frogs increase their courtship calls when they can see a female approaching. The research, led by Dr. Michael Reichert, suggests that visual cues play a crucial role in attracting mates in nocturnal anurans.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateNov 19, 2012

Autism treatment is more than skin deep

Researchers found that metal-binding agents applied to the skin, prescribed for autism treatment, are not absorbed and ineffective. The study contradicts claims made by some practitioners treating children with mercury-binding agents.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateNov 13, 2012

Bringing measuring accuracy to radical treatment

Researchers at Ghent University have developed a simplified model to measure the absolute density of OH radicals in plasma, improving the accuracy of radical treatment for medical applications. This breakthrough could stimulate tissue regeneration and induce targeted antiseptic effects without harming neighboring tissues.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 12, 2012

New hope for survivors of stroke and traumatic brain injury

A new study published in CNS Drugs found that a single dose of etanercept can rapidly improve chronic neurological dysfunction caused by stroke or traumatic brain injury, even years after the event. The observational study involved 629 patients and documented positive effects on motor impairment, spasticity, cognition, and more.

SourceSpringer·JournalCNS Drugs·DateOct 31, 2012

Graphene mini-lab

Physicists create graphene mini-labs to study fast-moving electrons and their relativistic behavior. The experiments mimic the dynamics of cosmic rays, despite traveling at a fraction of the speed of light.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateOct 31, 2012

Monkeys put off sex by bystanders

A study of long-tailed macaques found that males and females inhibit the sexual behavior of group members when bystanders are present, highlighting the importance of competition in shaping their dynamics. The researchers also discovered that sneaky copulations occur due to the exploitation of peripheral positions within the group.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 30, 2012

Cocktail achieves superconducting boost

Scientists have synthesized a new material with promising superconducting transition temperatures of 44 Kelvins, improving upon traditional copper-based high-temperature superconductors. The material, LixFe2Se2(NH3)y, displays an intercalation of potassium or rubidium, achieving a superconducting temperature of 32K.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateOct 29, 2012

Enigmatic nematics

Researchers Aparna Baskaran and Cristina Marchetti found that a uniform nematic state can be disturbed by density fluctuations associated with an upward current of active particles. This phenomenon is self-regulating and universal.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 29, 2012

DNA's double stranded stretch

Researchers used a coupled discrete wormlike chain-Ising model to simulate DNA stretching and confirm two structural transitions at forces of around 65 pN and 135 pN. Beyond 135 pN, DNA strands peel apart into single-stranded DNAs similar to those obtained through thermal denaturation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 25, 2012

Puppies don't pick up on yawns

A study from Lund University found that dogs under 7 months are immune to contagious yawning, but as they age, they start to mimic human yawns, indicating a developmental increase in empathy. This pattern is similar to human development, suggesting that empathy-based social modulatory effects emerge later in life.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateOct 23, 2012

The hidden threat posed by inconspicuous stripes

Researchers found that striped patterns formed by particles limit micro-patterned circuit size in electronics, reduce pharmaceutical effectiveness, and affect polymer manufacturing efficiency. The study reveals three distinct patterns of how particles 'stick' to surfaces, including stripe formation and clearing of surfaces.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 22, 2012

Survival of the shyest?

A new study by Professor Grant Brown and colleagues reveals that a fish's personality affects its ability to recall predator threats. Shy trout retain information about predator odors for up to eight days, while bold trout forget within 24 hours.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 22, 2012

College students and credit card debt -- parents at fault?

A study by Adam Hancock and colleagues found that college students with parents who argue about finances are more likely to have multiple credit cards and higher credit card debt. The researchers analyzed data from over 400 undergraduate students, discovering that parental influence plays a significant role in shaping financial behavio...

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateOct 18, 2012

Doctors who go digital provide higher quality healthcare

A study by Lisa Kern and her team found that electronic health records (EHRs) are associated with higher quality ambulatory care in primary care physicians. The researchers compared the performance of physicians using either EHRs or paper records, assessing nine specific quality measures for a total of 466 primary care physicians.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 17, 2012

Foot, knee and hip pain a problem in obese children

Obese children with lower extremity pain have worse physical function and poorer psychological health compared to their obese peers without pain. Physical fitness levels also show a decline in those reporting lower extremity pain, suggesting potential impact on exercise regimes.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateOct 16, 2012

A problem shared is a problem halved

Girls who experienced bullying reported lower life satisfaction, self-esteem, and higher anxiety levels. Positive relationships with adults and peers strongly mitigated these negative effects, suggesting a key role for social support in promoting children's well-being.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateOct 10, 2012

Nonprescription medication abuse underestimated

A new study reveals that nonprescription medication abuse is a significant issue, with 48% of cases involving pharmaceutical overdoses. The most common medications involved were sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers, leading to 35 deaths in 2011.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateOct 4, 2012

Hi-fi single photons

A French team identified key parameters to generate high-fidelity single photons, crucial for quantum computing and communication. They simulated detector properties and experimental results to improve reliability.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateOct 4, 2012

How sexual power can be disempowering

A new study by Dr. Lisa Rosenthal found that social dominance orientation can lead to increased sexual risk-taking and decreased confidence among both men and women, particularly when it comes to using female condoms.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateOct 1, 2012

Scaling up polymer blobs

Researchers used simulations to study the scaling behavior of polymers at extreme limits, where it depends on their density and length. They found that polymer blends in ultrathin films displayed enhanced compatibility due to the simulations' ability to efficiently compute dense large-chain systems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateSep 27, 2012

Spirituality key to Chinese medicine success

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is deeply influenced by Chinese philosophy and religion, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. The study explores TCM's underlying premise that good health requires cultivating a positive spirit and achieving harmony between the individual and nature.

SourceSpringer·JournalPastoral Psychology·DateSep 25, 2012

'Psychopaths' have an impaired sense of smell

Research suggests that individuals with psychopathic tendencies exhibit impaired odor discrimination and identification skills. This finding supports the idea that front-brain inefficiencies are associated with psychopathy.

SourceSpringer·JournalChemosensory Perception·DateSep 20, 2012

Self-forming biological scaffolding

A new model system explores how cells' functional structures assemble through self-organisation. The study reveals that actin filaments, held together by cross-linking proteins and molecular motors, can rapidly compact into highly ordered fibres.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateSep 19, 2012