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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau


Honey-bee aggression study suggests nurture alters nature

A new study by University of Illinois researchers reveals that environmental factors can alter aggression levels in honey bees. By analyzing gene expression patterns in response to alarm pheromone, the team found similarities between short-term and long-term changes, suggesting a connection between nurture and nature.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2009

Parental influences differ in determing child's later academic success

A study by Brent McBride, a University of Illinois expert in early childhood education, found that fathers' influence on a child's academic success later in life is felt the most when they're involved from the very beginning. Mothers' involvement, on the other hand, was positively related to a child's academic achievement.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateAug 12, 2009

Rethinking Brownian motion with the 'Emperor's New Clothes'

Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that Brownian motion does not always follow a Gaussian curve, as previously thought. The study reveals extreme displacements that were not predicted by Einstein's statistical molecular theory, suggesting new design possibilities and potential corrections to textbooks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

For abused women, leaving is a complex and confusing process

A new study finds that abused women experience a five-stage process of leaving, marked by boundary ambiguity, emotional disconnection, and preparation to leave. Women often struggle with clarity and connection once they've left, highlighting the need for support and understanding from social workers, friends, and family.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Family Theory & Review·DateJul 22, 2009

Tension in axons is essential for synaptic signaling, researchers report

Tiny membrane-bound compartments called vesicles rely on axon tension to dump neurotransmitters into the synapse. The researchers found that axons need tension to keep vesicles clustered near the synapse, essential for neuronal signaling. Further research is needed to understand the exact mechanism behind this process.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2009

Market-style incentives to increase school choice have opposite effect

A study by University of Illinois expert Christopher Lubienski found that market-based approaches to school choice lead to exclusionary strategies, favoring affluent students. Schools compete to attract high-need students, but often leave them marginalized, and instead target 'active families' with resources.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateJul 15, 2009

Those unsure of own ideas more resistant to views of others

A recent study found that individuals with uncertain opinions tend to avoid contradictory information, while those with confident beliefs are more likely to seek out opposing views. Certain factors, such as personal values and confidence in one's own ideas, can influence an individual's willingness to consider alternative perspectives.

First acoustic metamaterial 'superlens' created by University of Illinois researchers

Researchers at the University of Illinois have successfully focused ultrasound waves through a flat metamaterial lens to create an acoustic 'superlens'. This innovation could improve high-resolution ultrasound imaging, non-destructive structural testing of buildings and bridges, and novel underwater stealth technology.

Dad's early connection with child 'writes script' for later school involvement

A new University of Illinois study explores the role of parent involvement on student achievement. The research found that dads who build close relationships with their children in the preschool years are more likely to stay involved when their child makes the transition to school. This early connection can set a positive tone for futu...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateJun 22, 2009

Aluminum-oxide nanopore beats other materials for DNA analysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a new solid-state nanopore sensor made from aluminum oxide, exhibiting superior mechanical properties and noise performance. The sensor can detect single molecules with signal-to-noise comparable to other technologies, opening doors for personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.

Evidence of macroscopic quantum tunneling detected in nanowires

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has demonstrated macroscopic quantum tunneling in ultrathin superconducting nanowires. They observed a process called quantum phase slip, where packs of electrons tunnel together from higher to lower current states. This finding provides evidence that quantum mechanics governs large s...

Geographic isolation drives the evolution of a hot springs microbe

Researchers found that Sulfolobus islandicus populations are more diverse than thought, with variable genomes evolving rapidly and adapting to local environments. The findings suggest a limited genetic reservoir stored in viruses and other elements, contradicting the idea of a universal gene pool.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2009

Ability grouping in elementary school hampers minority students' literacy

A new study by University of Illinois professor Christy Lleras found that ability grouping in elementary school impairs the literacy of lower-grouped minority students, while having little effect on higher-grouped minority students. The practice creates larger achievement gaps among minority students and exacerbates inequality.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateApr 21, 2009

Middle-school math classes are key to closing racial academic achievement gap

A University of Illinois study suggests that challenging middle-school math classes and increased access to advanced courses can close the racial academic achievement gap. The research found that students who take more advanced math courses in middle school have better academic outcomes and are less likely to fall behind.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateApr 20, 2009