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Science News Archive May 2010 - Page 14


Page 14 of 26

Impact sensor provides athletic support

Researchers developed a new type of wearable impact sensor based on composite materials that generate an electrical current when compressed. The sensors can measure the forces acting on athletes' bodies and provide data to improve performance and reduce injuries.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomechatronics and Biomedical Robotics·DateMay 14, 2010

Growers can boost benefits of broccoli and tomatoes

A University of Illinois study demonstrates that agronomic practices can significantly increase the cancer-fighting compounds in broccoli and tomatoes. Selenium-treated broccoli was found to have six times higher levels of one compound and exhibited increased bioactivity, particularly in the liver.

Links between child care and academic achievement, behavior persist into adolescence

A study of 1,364 children found that those in high-quality child care had slightly higher academic achievement and were less likely to exhibit acting-out behaviors as teenagers. The study also discovered a correlation between hours spent in child care and impulsivity and risk-taking tendencies at age 15.

Water was present during birth of Earth

Scientists have found that volatile elements, including water, were present during the violent process of Earth's birth. The discovery, made using high precision equipment to measure Silver isotopes in rocks, suggests that comets and asteroids may not have brought significant amounts of volatile elements to Earth.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateMay 13, 2010

Firms pay more to high-skill foreign IT pros than to US colleagues, shows INFORMS study

A new study by Professors Sunil Mithas and Henry C. Lucas, Jr., published in Management Science, found that firms paying higher wages to foreign IT professionals do not depress the salaries of American colleagues. Instead, this practice may actually benefit US companies by leveraging a culturally diverse workforce.

Scientists offer new take on selective fishing

Scientists propose a new approach to selective fishing that prioritizes ecosystem health and biodiversity, challenging traditional methods. The 'balanced exploitation' approach combines reduced fishing effort with better use of non-target species to achieve sustainable yields while maintaining healthy ecosystems.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2010

Genetic ancestry testing challenges identified by American Society of Human Genetics task force

A recent White Paper report by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) highlights issues with genetic ancestry testing, including imprecise definitions and lack of standard guidelines. The task force recommends a collaborative approach among stakeholders to address concerns and develop best practices.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 13, 2010

Cheese found to improve the immune response of the elderly

Daily probiotic cheese consumption boosts natural and acquired immunity in older adults by activating NK blood cells and increasing phagocytic activity. The study aims to thwart immunosenescence, an age-related deterioration of the immune system that increases susceptibility to infections and cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalFEMS Immunology & Medical Microbiology·DateMay 13, 2010