How to make a faster ski
Researchers found that skis with wide grooves and narrow plateaus perform faster on warm snow, while narrower grooves and wider plateaus excel on cold snow. The study could lead to improvements in ski surface preparation.
Seasonal Changes
Articles tagged with Seasonal Changes
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Do successful leaders produce more successful leaders?
Researchers found that working under a highly successful leader provides initial career benefits in terms of getting a promotion at another organization. However, these benefits are short-lived and long-term effects may even be harmful. Promoted acolytes experience lower success rates than promoted non-accolytes.
Head impacts from season of high school football produce measurable change in brain cells
Researchers discovered measurable changes in brain cells of high school football players due to repeated impacts, even without concussion. The study used diffusional kurtosis imaging to measure changes in neural tissues and white matter abnormalities.
Changing monsoon patterns, more rain contribute to lower tea yield in Chinese provinces
A study by Tufts University researchers found that longer monsoon seasons and increased daily rainfall contribute to reduced tea yields in China. The new approach yields more accurate data on weather changes, enabling farmers to make informed decisions on harvesting strategies.
Lower home temperature in winter is associated with lower waist measurement
Elderly adults who live in homes with cooler temperatures during the winter season tend to have smaller waistlines compared to those living in warmer environments. Researchers found that safe cold exposure can be an effective preventive measure against obesity.
Agriculture expansion could reduce rainfall in Brazil's Cerrado
A study found that agricultural expansion in the Cerrado biome reduces water recycling, affecting rainfall patterns. Double cropping can help mitigate this effect by increasing evapotranspiration rates.
Tracking deer by NASA satellite
Researchers used NASA satellite data to predict mule deer birth rates by tracking vegetation growth patterns. This tool, called the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), measures vegetation health and helps forecast when does will give birth to fawns.
Gene blocking lettuce germination also regulates flowering time
Researchers at UC Davis found that a gene blocking lettuce germination also regulates flowering time. Suppressing the DOG1 gene increases seed germination at higher temperatures and flowers earlier, suggesting a molecular genetic mechanism coordinating adaptation to environmental conditions.
Ancient bones point to shifting grassland species as climate changes
A new study analyzed ancient bison and mammoth tissues to understand the shift of grassland species. The research found that increasing precipitation during the growing season was the single most important factor in the spread of C4 grasses.
Simulation study shows that pandemic swine flu had a minor impact in Finland
A simulation study published in PLOS Computational Biology estimated the true impact of infectious diseases like swine flu, which can be missed due to underreporting. The research shows that less than 10% of the Finnish population was infected with swine flu during the first two seasons in 2009-2011.
Tolerance to daily versus seasonal temperature changes may dictate fitness
A new study analyzing over 16,500 vertebrates found that species adapted to daily temperature fluctuations have smaller elevational range sizes, unlike those adapted to seasonal changes. This research suggests specialist species are favored in settings with dominant daily temperature variations.
Study suggests impact of climate change on agriculture may be underestimated
A new study by Brown and Tufts universities found that climate change can reduce agricultural production in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso by 9-13% with a 1 degree Celsius temperature increase. The research considered crop yield, land area, and double cropping to provide a more comprehensive understanding of climate change's effects.
Poor helmet fit associated with concussion severity in high school football players
A study by American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that ill-fitting helmets increase the risk of severe concussions in high school football players. Helmet fit affects cervical muscle function and brain impact during hits.
In grasslands, longer spring growing season offsets higher summer temperatures
Research predicts an earlier start to spring growing season and warmer winter temperatures in North American grasslands, partially offsetting negative effects of higher summer temperatures. Annual productivity is expected to increase despite drought-induced reductions in summer productivity.
Offsetting climate change's effects
A Harvard University study finds that grasslands across North America will experience an earlier start to the spring growing season and warmer winter temperatures, offsetting climate change's negative effects. However, this shift in seasonal patterns presents new management challenges for farmers and ranchers.
Shark research produces the unexpected
A James Cook University study found adult females remain in coastal areas year-round, giving birth and raising young. The team tracked over 100 sharks for more than two years, discovering a mysterious attraction to a specific bay near Townsville.
Leaf quality drives forests' ability to absorb carbon
A new study reveals that leaf quality, rather than leaf abundance, plays a crucial role in forest carbon cycles. The research finds that varying leaf quality can explain twice as much seasonal variation in ecosystem productivity as leaf quantity alone.
Studying climate change impact on maple syrup quality
A study led by UMass Amherst ecologist Kristina Stinson examines climate change's impact on maple syrup quality, including its chemical composition. The researchers aim to predict maple syrup quality under future climate conditions and explore management strategies.
No evidence of seasonal differences in depressive symptoms
A large-scale survey of U.S. adults found no association between depressive symptoms and seasonality, contradicting the notion of seasonal depression as a commonly occurring disorder. The study's findings cast doubt on major depression with seasonal variation as a legitimate psychiatric disorder.
Rejection from 'American Idol' provides insights into perseverance
New research on American Idol auditions finds that rejected contestants believe in their talent despite slim chances of success. The study suggests that perseverance is a reasonable mindset for creative individuals striving to achieve their goals.
Tropical Cyclone Victor born in South Pacific Ocean, Cook Islands on alert
NASA/NOAA's GOES-West satellite captured images of Tropical Cyclone Victor in the South Pacific Ocean, revealing a thick band of thunderstorms and a developing eye. The cyclone had maximum sustained winds near 40 knots (46 mph) and was moving west-southwest at 7 knots.
NASA sees out-of-season Central Pacific tropical depression form
A newly developed tropical depression formed five months early in the 2016 hurricane season, indicating strong uplift and potential for heavy rain. The system tapped into significant directional wind shear and prevailing conditions conducive to development, classified as a tropical cyclone.
Late-season Central Pacific tropical depression forms
Tropical Depression 9C formed in the Central Pacific on Dec. 31, with an elongated structure suggesting a weaker system. The depression is moving northwest at 3 mph, with little change in intensity expected due to strong easterly wind shear.
UNH research shows helmetless-tackling drills significantly reduce head impact
A novel set of helmetless-tackling drills have been shown to significantly reduce head impacts in football players by 28% in one season. The HuTTTM intervention program, tested on 50 NCAA Division I players, aimed to alter tackling behavior and prevent head injury exposure.
Optimal conditions for forcing cut pineapple lily
Researchers found that both greenhouse and field bed production environments can produce marketable stems with varying stem length and caliper. The study recommends optimal conditions for bulb storage, forcing temperatures, and planting densities to maximize productivity and quality of cut pineapple lily stems.
Extending the growing season for baby-leaf salad greens
Scientists evaluated nine spring and six fall crop cultivars for suitability as baby-leaf salad greens in the Pacific Northwest. Pak choi 'Joi Choi' and Mustard 'Komatsuna' showed high marketable weight, quick harvest time, and good weed competitiveness.
Luxury-charity partnerships can help promote retail sales this holiday season
A study published in Journal of Retailing found that luxury brands can increase sales by highlighting partnerships with charity at the point of sale. Consumers feel less guilty about purchasing luxury items when associated with a good cause.
Expert debunks the 'curse of the rainbow jersey'
Cycling World champions experience a dip in performance while wearing the champion's stripes due to regression to the mean. Dr Thomas Perneger's study analyzes racing results from 1965 to 2013, finding no significant difference between seasons with and without the rainbow jersey.
Millet: The missing link in prehistoric humans' transition from hunter-gatherer to farmer
New research shows ancient millet played a key role in the development of multi-crop agriculture, leading to the rise of settled societies. Millet was carried across Eurasia by shepherds and herders, who combined it with other crops to create 'multi-cropping' systems.
A new approach to predict evolution of influenza viruses can enhance vaccine efficacy
Researchers developed a simple method to track and predict viral evolution based on whole-genome sequences of influenza viruses. By identifying genetic variants that change the structure of influenza proteins, they found that many strains used in vaccines during previous seasons lacked these markers.
Distracted walking: A serious issue for you, not me
A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reveals that 78% of US adults consider distracted walking a serious issue, yet only 29% admit to themselves. Common behaviors include talking on phones, listening to music, and using smartphones while walking.
NASA's GPM gets a look at newborn, late season Eastern Pacific Tropical Storm Sandra
Tropical Storm Sandra strengthened to 35 knots with intense convective storms dropping rain at over 80 mm per hour. It is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane by Nov. 25, with a well-suited environment for intensification due to warm ocean water and light vertical wind shear.
Bird poaching continues to result in victims
In Gipuzkoa province, bird poaching continues to pose a threat to biodiversity conservation, with dozens of birds arriving at rehabilitation centers with firearm-inflicted wounds. Researchers analyzed data from 2006 to 2013 and found that the spatial distribution of shot birds was concentrated around fixed hunting stands.
Tropical Storm Rick joins an elite late-season storm group
Tropical Storm Rick strengthened into a tropical storm on Nov. 19, becoming the 21st of the Eastern Pacific Ocean season. The storm joined an elite group of late-season storms, with only three tropical storms forming later than this date since reliable records began in the early 1970s.
Fit older adults are more active
A recent study published in Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that fitness level is the strongest correlate of physical activity among Norwegian older adults. Higher education was associated with increased physical activity for males but not females. The study, which analyzed data from 850 participants aged 70-77, also disco...
New research shows La Niña is not helping Hawai'i's rainfall and groundwater
Recent La Niña years have brought less-than-normal rainfall to Hawai'i, contrary to past trends. The shift in weather patterns has important implications for agriculture and water resource management.
What's the best time to launch a video game?
Researchers at the University of Maryland studied console and game sales data to understand how base proportions of console owners change over time. The study found that companies should weigh tradeoffs between early adopters and later adopters when releasing games, with optimal timing depending on console adoption patterns.
How to convince people to wash their hands during flu season
Researchers found that praising with an assertive tone and scolding with a non-assertive tone were the most effective ways to persuade people to wash their hands during flu season. The study, published in the Journal of Marketing Research, suggests that using an assertive tone can intensify the message and promote desired behavior.
Eavesdropping on Bering Strait marine mammals
A team of researchers is using 'passive acoustic monitoring' to document the use of the Bering Strait by species previously excluded by sea ice. They are eavesdropping on marine mammals within the Arctic to monitor their presence year-round and study the impacts of climate change on the ecosystem.
Planting in clumps boosts wetland restoration success
A new Duke University study finds that clumping newly planted marsh grasses can spur positive interactions and boost growth, increasing vegetative cover by up to 300% in some test plots. This approach challenges 40-year-old forestry-based practice of dispersed planting.
Reduction in Amazon deforestation avoids 1,700 deaths per year
A study found that reducing Amazon deforestation leads to improved air quality and a decrease in premature deaths from exposure to particulate matter. The research estimated that the 40% reduction in Brazilian deforestation between 2001-12 prevented approximately 1,700 adult deaths annually in South America.
New rule that limits tackling during football practices knocks down concussions
A new rule restricting full-contact tackling during high school football practices has been shown to significantly reduce concussion rates among players. The American Academy of Pediatrics study used data from over 16,000 adolescent athletes and found a nearly twofold decrease in concussions after the rule change.
NASA sees the 26th Northwestern Pacific Tropical Depression form
The 26th Northwestern Pacific Tropical Depression formed on October 22, 2015, near Wake Island. It had maximum sustained winds of 28.7 mph and was moving north-northeast at 23.0 mph.
Satellite sees Tropical Storm Patricia form near Western Mexico coast
The Eastern Pacific Ocean's twentieth tropical depression of the season developed into Tropical Storm Patricia, with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. The storm is forecast to approach the Mexican coast on Friday, bringing life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
Straw-colored fruit bats: Ecosystem service providers and record-breaking flyers
African straw-colored fruit bats, ecosystem service providers, cover greater distances than any other bat species during the dry season. They disperse seeds and pollen across large areas, playing a crucial role in maintaining forest ecosystems.
NASA's GPM sees Tropical Storm Joaquin form in western Atlantic
Tropical Storm Joaquin formed in the western Atlantic on September 28, fueled by rain rates of up to 60 mm/hr. The storm is expected to strengthen over the next two days as it moves northward ahead of an upper-level trough.
New irrigation strategies for pecans in humid climates
Researchers found that a reduced early season irrigation schedule improves water efficiency in Georgia's humid climate while maintaining pecan tree health. The study showed a 38% reduction in irrigation water use with no significant impact on pecan quality or yield.
Be on the lookout this fall: Deer-vehicle collisions increase during breeding season
A new study maps deer migration patterns across Georgia, revealing peak collision times and areas for increased vigilance. By knowing these dates, drivers can be more cautious and avoid deadly accidents.
NASA to fly parallel science campaigns at both poles
The NASA Operation IceBridge campaign is conducting overlapping flights in Antarctica and the Arctic to track changes in polar ice conditions. The team aims to compare measurements taken during spring and summer campaigns, providing insight into ice thickness variations within the year.
A look into why the horrifying is so very intriguing
The TV show 'Freak Show' forces audiences to confront intellectual fears about difference, diversity and change, from voyeuristic appeal to reflection on who might be the 'real' freak. The series explores what it means to be 'abnormal' or an anomaly, challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy.
Researchers reveal how NFL game outcomes affect stock returns of stadium sponsors
Researchers found that stadium sponsors' stock returns are higher after home team wins, especially in post-season games. Unexpected game outcomes also lead to significant market reactions.
NFL fans and ESPN reporters overly optimistic about team prospects
A study from UCL and Oxford University found that US NFL fans and sports reporters have unrealistic expectations about their team's performance. The average number of wins predicted by fans was 9.59, while expert predictions were no better than a naive forecasting model.
NASA takes an infrared baby picture of Atlantic's Tropical Depression 8
NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Tropical Depression 8, revealing coldest cloud top temperatures near -63F/-53C. The depression is expected to strengthen and become a tropical storm later on September 9.
Southern California wildfires exhibit split personalities
Researchers examine differences between Southern California's summer and Santa Ana fires, which exhibit split personalities due to climate-driven conditions. Climate change increases the risk of both fire types, with non-Santa-Ana summer fires becoming more prevalent.
Molting elephant seals add mercury to coastal seawater
Researchers found that elephant seals shed significant amounts of mercury during molting, resulting in high concentrations of the toxic metal in coastal waters. The study reveals a previously unrecognized source of mercury contamination in coastal waters, highlighting the need for further monitoring and mitigation efforts.
The Alaska fire season -- before and after
The 2015 Alaska fire season has surpassed 5 million acres burned, ranking No. 3 on record, and currently 768 fires are active across the state. The annual seasonal rain pattern is expected to help diminish fire activity.
Many North American birds may lose part of range under climate change scenarios
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that nearly 600 surveyed bird species in North America may lose more than half of their geographic range by the end of the century due to climate change. The researchers used correlative distribution modeling to assess potential range shifts under three different climate scenarios.
NASA's Terra Satellite sees birth of Tropical Depression 12E
The 12th tropical depression of the 2015 Eastern Pacific hurricane season was born on August 25, 2015. NASA's Terra satellite gathered infrared data revealing a circulation center with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph, located approximately 1,610 miles east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii.
Influenza vaccines provide moderate protection throughout the entire flu season
A recent study found that influenza vaccines offer moderate, sustained protection up to 6 months post-vaccination, suggesting yearly vaccination may be prudent. Administering vaccines early in the fall can still prevent the greatest number of infections.
NASA's GPM Satellite analyzes Tropical Storm Danny's rain structure
Tropical Storm Danny formed in the central Atlantic on August 18 with a strong El Nino influence, leading to potential hurricane formation. The GPM satellite analyzed Danny's rainfall structure, revealing an asymmetric rain band with high rain rates.