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Science News for August 19, 2012


Middle-class children: Squeaky wheels in training

A study by Indiana University sociologist Jessica McCrory Calarco found that middle-class parents encourage their children to ask questions and seek help, while working-class parents coach them to avoid problems. This difference in parenting approaches can impact children's ability to interact with institutions later in life.

SourceIndiana University·DateAug 19, 2012

Marital separations an alternative to divorce for poor couples

A nationwide study suggests that about 80% of married couples who undergo long-term separations ultimately divorce, most within three years. Those who remain separated tend to be from racial and ethnic minorities, have low family income and education, and have young children.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 19, 2012
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

UCSB researchers demonstrate that 15=3x5 about half of the time

Researchers at UCSB have successfully factored a small composite number using a quantum processor. The achievement is significant as it demonstrates a milestone on the road to building a quantum computer capable of factoring larger numbers with significant implications for cryptography and cybersecurity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 19, 2012

New technology combats global pandemic of drug counterfeiting

A new technology developed by scientists can authenticate drugs in minutes, helping patients in developing countries receive real treatments instead of counterfeit ones. The device uses mass spectrometry and can distinguish between genuine and fake medications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Inspired by genetics, chemistry finally takes hold of its own code

Researchers have created a new code in organic chemistry, inspired by genetic principles, allowing for the construction of more complex molecular architectures. The code enables chemists to generate two-dimensional maps and then create three-dimensional systems with high reliability.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 19, 2012

Massachusetts butterflies move north as climate warms

A study by Harvard University researchers found that Massachusetts butterfly populations are moving north as the climate warms, with subtropical species such as the giant swallowtail and zabulon skipper increasing in abundance. In contrast, more than three quarters of northerly species are declining, particularly those that overwinter ...

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 19, 2012

God as a drug: The rise of American megachurches

Research by the University of Washington found that megachurches provide a powerful emotional experience through sensory pageantry and charismatic leadership. The study, which analyzed 2008 data from 12 nationally representative American megachurches, found that feelings of joy and spiritual growth are common among members.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 19, 2012

Artificial intelligence helps detect subtle differences in mutant worms

Researchers developed an automated system using AI and image processing to rapidly examine large numbers of individual Caenorhabditis elegans, identifying genetic mutations that might not have been detected otherwise. The technique could change high-throughput genetic screening methods.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 19, 2012
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Marital separation an alternative to divorce for poor people

A nationwide study suggests that long-term separations are often a low-cost alternative to divorce for disadvantaged couples. Researchers found that about 80% of respondents who went through marital separation ultimately divorced, with those in racial and ethnic minorities, low family income, and education more likely to remain separated.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 19, 2012

Red wine compound could help seniors walk away from mobility problems

Scientists discovered that resveratrol, a natural compound found in red wine, may help improve mobility and prevent life-threatening falls among older people. The study showed that resveratrol decreased motor deficiencies in aging mice, leading to increased quality of life and reduced hospitalization risk.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2012

The wasp that never cries wolf

Researchers found a direct relationship between the brightness of European paper wasps' colours and the size of their poison glands. This colouration serves as an honest signal to predators that the wasp is strong and healthy, potentially wasting energy on bright patterns.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateAug 19, 2012

Work has more benefits than just a paycheck for moms

Women who work full-time after having children are healthier at age 40 than those who stay at home or have intermittent employment. Working provides a sense of purpose and autonomy, leading to better mental and physical health. Conversely, persistent unemployment is linked to greater stress and poor health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Akron·DateAug 19, 2012
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

'DNA wires' could help physicians diagnose disease

Scientists have discovered that DNA can act as a wire to detect genetic damage and identify people at risk for certain diseases. The discovery could lead to the development of medical diagnostic devices and biosensors that can pick up on changes in DNA that may lead to cancer and other diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2012

Improving water quality can help save coral reefs

Research found that nutrient imbalance in reef waters increases bleaching susceptibility of corals. Balancing nutrient input in coastal waters could mitigate effects of warming oceans on coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 19, 2012

A new route to dissipationless electronics

Researchers at RIKEN have demonstrated a new material that can eliminate loss in electrical power transmission, opening the door to energy-efficient electronics. The discovery uses magnetic topological insulators, which exhibit unique properties that allow for dissipationless electricity channels.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 19, 2012

New space-age insulating material for homes, clothing and other everyday uses

Scientists have developed a new flexible aerogel material that is up to 500 times stronger than traditional silica aerogels, with improved thermal conductivity and potential applications in super-insulating clothing, refrigerators, and buildings. The material could also be used for heat shields on spacecraft and insulation for spacesuits.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2012
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.