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Perfect colors, captured with one ultra-thin lens

Researchers create an ultra-thin, completely flat optical component made of glass substrate and silicon antennas that compensates for wavelength differences. This allows for consistent effects like deflecting beams of different colors by the same angle or focusing those colors on a single spot.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateFeb 19, 2015

The neural basis of 'being in the mood'

A study in female mice reveals the brain region where hormonal state and social interaction are integrated, providing insights into human attraction and rejection behaviors. The researchers found that neurons dedicated to socio-sexual behavior were active only when females were receptive to males.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Why do zebras have stripes?

A UCLA study finds that regulating body temperature is a crucial factor in zebra striping, controlling zebras' body temperature and protecting them from diseases carried by biting flies. The research provides the first evidence of thermoregulation as the main reason for stripes and patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 29, 2015

Hands on: Crafting ultrathin color coatings

Scientists have developed a technique to coat metallic objects with an extremely thin layer of semiconductor, producing vibrant optical effects on paper and other flexible materials. The ultrathin coatings can produce bright, solid colors using the same two metals, applied with only a few atoms' difference in thickness.

SourceHarvard University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 22, 2014

Abandoned wells can be 'super-emitters' of greenhouse gas

Researchers at Princeton University found that many abandoned oil and gas wells in Pennsylvania leak substantial quantities of methane. The study suggests that these 'super-emitting' wells could be a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, potentially accounting for up to 10% of methane from human activities in the state.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2014

Tinkering with the Tao of pandas

A new study reveals that giant pandas are not as picky about their habitat as previously believed. The research, led by Michigan State University, found that pandas are willing to live in secondary forests, climb different slopes, and choose areas with varying amounts of sunshine.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalUrsus·DateDec 3, 2014

A piece of the quantum puzzle

Researchers at UCSB's Martinis Lab successfully demonstrated a quantum version of Gauss's law using superconducting qubits. The team achieved full control over a two-qubit system, enabling precise measurement of local curvature through movement, showcasing the power of arbitrary control in quantum simulation.

Global warming not just a blanket -- in the long run, it's more like tanning oil

A new study from the University of Washington and MIT reveals that global warming is not solely caused by carbon dioxide's 'blanket' effect, but also involves shortwave radiation. The research shows how CO2 initially traps heat, but as the planet warms, it absorbs more solar radiation, leading to continued warming.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2014

Future family and career goals evident in teenage years

Researchers found that teenagers who placed high importance on both work and family goals, as well as having confidence in achieving them, were more likely to report feeling successful in their careers and families later in life. These individuals also reached higher education levels than those with only family-oriented goals.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·DateNov 4, 2014

Chimps plan ahead for a good breakfast

Researchers found that chimpanzees strategically plan their breakfast time and location based on environmental factors and food availability, taking risks to secure desired fruits. The study reveals the complexity of chimpanzee cognitive behavior in complex environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2014

Rivers flow differently over gravel beds, study finds

Researchers found dramatic differences in flow velocity patterns and forces on river beds between gravel and sandy models, disproving a popular theory. The study's new parameters improve predictive models for nutrient and pollutant transport and provide insight into organism behavior in the narrow zone where rivers meet their beds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 15, 2014

What goes up must come down

Biologists at UC Riverside found that geckos reverse hind foot position to use the adhesive system as a brake and stabilizer when moving downhill. The study, published in Biology Letters, sheds light on gecko locomotion on non-level terrain and has applications in robotics.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 14, 2014

2-D materials' crystalline defects key to new properties

Scientists have found that defects in a 2D material called tungsten disulphide can create unusual characteristics, making it useful for electronic devices and hydrogen gas liberation. The researchers used an advanced microscope to visualize the defects, revealing a low-energy barrier that allows them to be easily displaced.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 24, 2014

Kessler Foundation scientists study impact of cultural diversity in brain injury research

Researchers emphasize the need for cultural competence in brain injury research and rehabilitation to address growing minority populations and their higher risk of poorer outcomes. Studies highlight persistent health disparities among minorities with acquired brain injury, underscoring the importance of patient-centered interventions.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateAug 27, 2014

Paleolithic 'escargot'

Researchers found land snail shell remains from ~30,000 years ago in Cova de la Barriada, Spain. The discovery suggests that ancient human populations used snails as a food resource in Europe ~30,000 years ago.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 20, 2014

Sequencing at sea

A team of researchers from San Diego State University overcame numerous challenges to successfully sequence DNA samples in real-time at sea. Despite equipment failures, space constraints, and shark encounters, they managed to collect and analyze data on the Line Islands, developing new research questions and hypotheses along the way.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 19, 2014

Passengers who survived terrifying Air Transat flight in 2001 help psychologists uncover new clues about post-traumatic stress vulnerability

Researchers at Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care studied the memories of 15 Air Transat passengers who experienced a life-threatening emergency in 2001. They found that those with PTSD recalled more external details, not just specific events, suggesting altered memory processing may be a vulnerability factor.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateAug 13, 2014

Vocal variety in African penguins

Researchers studied the vocal behavior of African penguins, identifying four basic vocalizations used by adults for communication. Juveniles and chicks also have distinct begging calls to request food. The study provides valuable insights into the vocal repertoire of endangered seabirds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

Discovery is key to metal wear in sliding parts

A team of researchers has discovered a previously unknown mechanism for wear in metals, which could lead to improved durability of metal parts. The findings show that tiny bumps and surface defects can form through a swirling, fluid-like behavior in solid metals, leading to cracks and wear particles.

Research reveals a gender gap in the nation's biology labs

A new study found that women are greatly underrepresented in the labs of high-achieving male biology professors, despite being overrepresented overall. This discrepancy may be due to self-selection or unconscious bias, and institutions can take steps to address these issues by making their labs more welcoming to female scientists.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2014

A collaboration of minds and metal

Researchers at Princeton University have made a groundbreaking collaboration between two areas of research, enabling the formation of previously impossible bonds. The breakthrough uses photoredox catalysis and nickel catalysis to create powerful new reactions with unprecedented efficiency and scalability.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2014