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Science News for November 14, 2008


Sonography in space

Astronauts on the International Space Station successfully performed remotely-guided sonograms using a ground-to-space communication system. The study's findings demonstrate the feasibility of sonography in microgravity environments and could lead to new applications in space medicine.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography·DateNov 14, 2008

2008 Berrie Awards go to expert on metabolic pathways of obesity and a CUMC research scientist

Columbia University Irving Medical Center honors Dr. Bruce Spiegelman with the Naomi Berrie Award for his groundbreaking work on metabolic pathways of obesity and diabetes research. Dr. Spiegelman's discoveries have identified key molecules critical in fat cell differentiation, insulin resistance, and energy expenditure. Meanwhile, jun...

Putting a new spin on current research

Physicists at UCL and the London Centre for Nanotechnology have made a significant discovery in quantum computing, extending the quantum lifetime of electrons by over 5,000%. This achievement brings researchers closer to building a usable quantum computer. The study used a powerful magnetic field to align electron spins, providing a cr...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 2008

New program teaches preschoolers reading skills, getting along with others

A new program, REDI Head Start, combines pre-reading skills with social-emotional learning to foster preschoolers' academic and social success. Children in the REDI program outperformed those in traditional programs on tests of emotional development, impulsivity, aggression, and reading skills.

Supportive teachers, peers can ease negative effects of frequent moves in elementary school

A longitudinal study found that frequent moves during 2nd to 5th grade can lead to declines in academic performance and classroom participation. However, having a supportive teacher who encourages peer acceptance can help children make a smooth transition. The study suggests that teachers play a critical role in mitigating the negative...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateNov 14, 2008

Research-based program found to enhance impact of Head Start on school readiness

A research-based program, REDI, was found to improve both academic and social-emotional areas in children participating in Head Start. The study, published in Child Development, showed that REDI's dual-focus approach effectively promoted gains in vocabulary, pre-reading skills, emotional understanding, and social competence.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateNov 14, 2008