What happens to stolen guns?
According to Philip Cook's analysis, gun thefts represent only about one percent of all gun transactions in the US. In Chicago, only a tiny proportion of crime guns were ever reported stolen to the Police Department.
Springer
Turning graphene into light nanosensors
Researchers embedded graphene in a photonic crystal to enhance its light-absorbing capabilities. By varying the external temperature, they can tune the material's optical characteristics, leading to potential applications in light sensors and ultra-fast lasers.
Stricter gun control could stop violent men killing their partners and themselves
Researchers analyzed data on intimate partner homicide in North Carolina between 2004-2013. They found that guns were the primary weapon in 7 out of 10 cases, leading to an average of 50% more deaths compared to similar crimes committed with other weapons.
Julius Springer Prize for Applied Physics 2018 awarded to Guus Rijnders
Guus Rijnders has been awarded the Julius Springer Prize for Applied Physics for his pioneering research on pulsed laser deposition and its applications in interface engineering. His work focuses on creating complex materials with novel functionalities, including brain-inspired electronics and sensors.
Saving a penalty: How science helps predict the score
Researchers propose a new affordance-based control model to explain how goalkeepers dive at the right time in penalty kicks. The study suggests that goalkeepers should regulate their actions to sustain perception of 'stoppability', allowing for individually-tailored interventions.
Study shows rapid rise in mass school shootings in the US
A new study reveals a rapid rise in mass school shootings in the US over the past 18 years, with 66 people killed and 81 injured since the start of the 21st century. The authors call for policy and legislative actions to address the alarming trend, including expanded background checks and mental health support.
Can estimates from forensic handwriting experts be trusted in court?
A new study found that forensic handwriting experts are marginally better than novices at estimating the frequency of specific features in handwriting samples, but with large overall error rates. The researchers advise courts to take a cautious approach when using experience-based likelihood ratios as evidence.
Once upon a time, an exoplanet was discovered
The discovery of 51 Pegasi b marked a significant milestone in the search for exoplanets, with Michel Mayor and his colleague Queloz credited with the groundbreaking find. The development of better telescopes enabled this achievement, contributing to a new community of researchers exploring this field.
Springer launches Journal for STEM Education Research
The Journal for STEM Education Research is a subscription-based, open-access journal focusing on students' cognitive and non-cognitive development in STEM education. It explores learning environments and pedagogies to facilitate student learning and development.
How cheetahs outsmart lions and hyenas
A new study reveals that cheetahs modify their eating strategies depending on the presence of top predators like lions and hyenas. Mothers with cubs prioritize vigilance over speed, while single females and males focus on quick consumption to avoid prey theft.
Rats sniff out TB in children
Researchers have trained rats to sniff out tuberculosis in children, detecting cases 68% more accurately than traditional smear tests. The new method has the potential to save up to 70% of untreated patients in low-income countries.
Bonobos share and share alike
Researchers observed bonobos sharing meat across community borders for the first time, demonstrating cooperative behavior and social structure dominance by females. The study provides insights into how our last common ancestor may have acted when dividing food with others, shedding light on human origins.
Spa therapy helps Japan's snow monkeys cope with the cold
Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, have been enjoying regular baths in the hot spring at Jigokudani in Japan for decades. A recent study found that female snow monkeys use the hot spring more often in winter than in spring to lower stress levels.
Meditate regularly for an improved attention span in old age
Regular meditation practice has been shown to improve sustained attention and response inhibition in older adults, with benefits partially maintained over seven years. Despite plateauing, the cognitive gains observed suggest potential long-term benefits of continued meditation practice.
Simulations document self-assembly of proteins and DNA
Researchers developed an algorithm to simulate molecular dynamics of patchy particles, which are made up of a rigid body with only two charged patches. The findings provide new insights into what makes biological entities like protein/DNA combinations self-assemble.
Unresolved puzzles in exotic nuclei
Unstable atomic nuclei like Helium-8 and Lithium-8 can be investigated through beta decay and detection of decay products. The author discusses available experimental data and models applied to 'exotic' nuclei, revealing unresolved puzzles in the connection between microscopic structure and observable quantities.
How to deal with embarrassing situations
Researchers discovered that people who are self-conscious in public may feel more embarrassed when watching ads with embarrassing content. However, adopting an observer's perspective can reduce feelings of embarrassment and increase willingness to take action. The study suggests devising strategies to overcome embarrassment avoidance i...
Non-psychoactive cannabis ingredient could help addicts stay clean
A preclinical study in rats found that Cannabidiol (CBD) can reduce the risk of relapse among recovering drug and alcohol addicts. CBD effectively reduced anxiety, impulsivity, and stress-induced relapse in rats.
Home genetic tests should be interpreted by experts
A recent study found that up to 40% of direct-to-consumer genetic tests provide incorrect readings in raw data. The findings highlight the importance of seeking clinical test validation to ensure accurate patient care.
High-energy ions' movement affected by silicon crystal periodicity
Researchers at National University of Singapore study the effect of silicon crystal periodicity on high-energy ion trajectories in thin crystals. They found that thinner crystals enable more precise control over the distribution of transmitted ions.
Antibiotics could be key to relieving chronic bladder pain
A new clinical study led by Sheela Swamy of University College London found that antibiotics can significantly reduce symptoms of chronic bladder pain and urinary tract infections. The study analyzed 624 women who had suffered from long-term symptoms for over six years, with no relief from previous treatments.
Which skills will help patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Patients with OCD suffer from a severe reduction in quality of life due to the maladaptive strategies they use. The study suggests that teaching children skills such as coping with bullying and emotional turmoil through cognitive training may help improve their daily lives and prevent mental health disorders.
Daily dose of violent video games has no long-term effect on adult aggression
A new study found that daily violent video game play does not lead to increased aggression levels in adults. Researchers compared participants who played violent games to those who played life simulation games or didn't play at all, and found no significant differences in aggression levels over time.
Can pursuing happiness make you unhappy?
A study published in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review found that people who pursue happiness often feel like they do not have enough time, which paradoxically makes them feel unhappy. This effect is due to the pursuit of happiness causing participants to think of time as scarce.
Can't sleep? Could be down to genetics
A large-scale genome-wide association study found that insomnia has a partially heritable basis and a strong genetic link to type 2 diabetes. The study also identified specific gene variants on chromosomes 7 and 9 associated with insomnia.
Fish team up for more food
Researchers observed cooperative behavior in Neolamprologus obscurus fish, excavating stones to create shelter and increase food abundance. The study found that helpers played a crucial role in maintaining and expanding these shelters, leading to increased prey abundance and improved breeding success.
3-D simulations reveal synergistic mechanisms of the human heart
A new study introduces a holistic 3D numerical simulation model of the human heart, taking into account the mutual interaction between blood flow and individual components. The model reveals complex effects of heart strings on the mitral valve, shedding light on potential strategies for preventing cardiac problems.
Six decades of cosmology
Narlikar shares personal reminiscences on the evolution of cosmology over six decades, highlighting the increase in confidence in the standard model. However, he also notes that this model lacks independent observational support and an established theoretical base.
Global scientific review reveals effective alternatives to neonicotinoid and fipronil insecticides
A global scientific review finds that systemic pesticides like neonicotinoids are not as effective as once thought and can be replaced by alternative pest-management strategies. The study identifies diverse approaches, including ecological corridors, crop rotation, and biocontrol, to reduce environmental harm.
Understanding the wetting of micro-textured surfaces can help give them new functionalities
Researchers developed a new theoretical model to explain the friction of liquid droplets on micro-structured surfaces. The study found that micro-hole surfaces exhibit higher friction than micro-pillar surfaces under the same solid fraction.
Turn off the telly and get moving
A recent study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis found that prolonged TV viewing increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, a potentially fatal condition. The research, which analyzed data from over 15,000 Americans, suggests that even regular exercise is not enough to offset the risks of sedentary behavior.
Laser-ranged satellite measurement now accurately reflects Earth's tidal perturbations
A new study using the LAser RElativity Satellite (LARES) demonstrates high-precision probing of General Relativity and fundamental physics. The research reveals frame-dragging effects on space-time, with implications for astrophysics.
Approximate quantum cloning: The new way of eavesdropping in quantum cryptography
Researchers demonstrate partial quantum cloning of linearly dependent states using a new approximate cloning method. This breakthrough allows for enhanced performance in quantum computing and improves the security of quantum cryptography.
Nuno Maulide to receive Springer Heterocyclic Chemistry Award 2018
Nuno Maulide will receive the award at the European Colloquium on Heterocyclic Chemistry in Lecce, Italy, for his original work on unconventional reactivity profiles and high-energy reactive intermediates. The prize includes a travel grant, €1,000 cash prize, and a lifelong online subscription to Topics in Heterocyclic Chemistry.
Chinese researchers report first lung stem cell transplantation clinical trial
Researchers have successfully transplanted human lung stem cells into damaged lungs, regenerating bronchial and alveolar structures. The study shows promising results in treating chronic pulmonary diseases such as bronchiectasis.
Tea Party movement has paved the way for racialized language in US politics
Italian researchers found that Tea Party supporters exhibited greater racial resentment towards non-white individuals and relied on it when evaluating Obama. The study suggests the Tea Party movement paved the way for mainstream acceptance of racially hostile content, contributing to Trump's communication strategy.
Holding on to patriarchy-reinforcing beliefs comes at a price
A recent study found that men who endorse male dominance tend to view women as either chaste and good or promiscuous and bad, leading to objectification and restricted sexuality. This reinforces gender inequality and negatively affects both men and women's well-being.
Scientists call for global and local control and management of mercury
Mercury is a toxic contaminant with significant health risks to humans and wildlife, primarily through methylmercury in fish consumption. The international treaty on mercury, the Minamata Convention, has been ratified by 84 nations, emphasizing the need for scientific understanding to inform policy decisions.
How can students with autism be supported through college?
The US expects 45% of emerging adults with ASD to enroll in a post-secondary institution, but completion rates are lower compared to general population and disability groups. College experiences for students with ASD cover topics such as bullying, parental insights, and evidence-based programs.
Long-term opioid use has dropped among US military veterans
A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that long-term opioid prescribing among US military veterans decreased by 30% between 2010 and 2016. The decline was largely due to a reduction in long-term opioid use, rather than a decrease in short-term use.
Relativity matters: Two opposing views of the magnetic force reconciled
Researchers have resolved the ambiguity between Ampere's and Gilbert's forms of magnetic force, enabling characterization of particle spin dynamics in inhomogeneous electromagnetic fields. This advance can be applied to precision experiments, including those involving muons and neutrinos.
Predicting influencers has just been made simpler
Researchers developed a new theory identifying key individuals spreading news and viruses in epidemics by analyzing message transmission dynamics. The study predicts the influence of spreaders in networks, enabling efficient immunization strategies and identifying influential actors.
Thin is in? Think again
US women's perceptions of the perfect female figure have evolved to a thin and toned ideal, according to a recent study led by Frances Bozsik. The research found that recent Miss USA winners are no longer only exemplifying extreme thinness, but also becoming increasingly muscular over the past 15 years.
Imagining a successful future can help students overcome everyday difficulties
Studies show that female students from low socioeconomic backgrounds benefit from imagining their successful futures to manage stress and tackle academic challenges. The theory of identity-based motivation proposes that this mindset helps students feel ready and able to take action when faced with difficulty.
Princesses and action heroes are for boys and girls
A study found that children exposed to counter-stereotypic peers in magazines were more flexible in their attitudes about who should play with certain toys. This counters the idea that gender segregation is inevitable in young children.
Free online access to millions of documents on chemical toxicity made possible through ToxicDocs
ToxicDocs is a free searchable online database of millions of pages of internal corporate and trade association documents relating to toxic substances in products. The database provides a wealth of information on the dangers of toxic agents, including lead poisoning, vinyl chloride, silicosis, PCBs, and asbestos.
Researchers find link between breast cancer and two gene mutations
Women with MSH6 and PMS2 gene variants have a 2-fold or 3-fold increased risk of developing breast cancer. The study suggests more intensive screening for these women may be beneficial.
New blood protein markers help track premature ageing disease
A new study has identified protein biomarkers that can help monitor the progression and treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) in children. The research found levels of more than 40% of proteins to be significantly different in HGPS samples compared to non-HGPS control samples.
Teenagers gamble away their education
A long-term population-based study found that teenagers who gambled at age 14 and 17 had lower academic performance. The study controlled for socio-familial risk factors and impulsivity.
Unexpected undulations in biological membranes
A new study reveals that biological membranes display dynamic properties and exhibit unexpected undulations when embedded in polymer networks. The authors propose a theory elucidating the dynamics of such membranes and identify a new intermediate wavelength regime of membrane undulations.