Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Right timing is crucial in life

Researchers discover that Calcium/Calmodlin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) is the main effector behind the adaptation of the circadian clock to geographical environment in marine midges. This protein, also found in humans, may play a role in human chronotypes and neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateNov 22, 2016

New study shows impact of man-made structures on Louisiana's coastal wetlands

A new study by University of Miami researchers uses satellite data to quantify the impact of man-made canals and levees on Louisiana's coastal wetlands. The study found that these structures limit tidal inundation in 45% of the state's coastline, threatening the ecosystems' ability to adapt to sea-level rise.

El Niño made a nuisance of itself in 2015

Nuisance flooding in the US increased significantly in 2015 due to strong El Niño and rising sea levels. Cities such as Charleston, SC; Port Isabel, TX; and San Francisco, CA experienced record numbers of flooding days, with Wilmington, NC leading the way with an all-time high of 90 days.

Studying life on the rocks

A team of scientists has developed an apparatus to measure the behavior of ice under various external forces. The device can be used to study both terrestrial glaciers and icy satellite bodies, providing insights into potential life-supporting oceans beneath the ice.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 31, 2016

Correcting estimates of sea level rise

A Harvard University study reveals that global sea level has accelerated far more than initially thought, with a 30% increase in sea level rise from 1900-1990 compared to previous estimates. The researchers used a new approach to estimate sea level change by accounting for the limitations of existing tide gauge records.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

11th century king inspires novel GP appointment system

Westgate Medical Practice introduced a novel appointment system where patients can attend at designated times, reducing wait times and increasing patient satisfaction. The practice saw an improvement in work patterns for nursing staff and a significant increase in patients seeing their preferred doctor.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 11, 2014

Companion planets can increase old worlds' chance at life

Researchers found that an outer companion planet's gravitational pull can generate tidal heating, extending the habitable zone and potentially allowing older Earth-sized planets to host life. The study suggests that discovering such planets may lead to finding inner companion worlds, increasing their chance at hosting life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 31, 2014

Map of universe questioned; dwarf galaxies don't fit standard model

A new study questions the accepted model of galaxy formation, suggesting that dwarf galaxies may have formed from another galaxy through a tidal interaction. The research criticizes three recent papers that found satellite galaxies to support the standard model, instead finding 'serious issues' with their methods.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 11, 2014