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New evidence dinosaurs were strong swimmers

Researchers have identified evidence of a dinosaur's ability to swim with coordinated leg movements, as indicated by 15-meter claw marks found on a Chinese riverbed. The marks suggest the presence of a two-legged dinosaur that was swimming along the river and only its tippy toes were touching bottom.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateApr 8, 2013

Measuring the magnetism of antimatter

A team of Harvard scientists has successfully measured the magnetic charge of single particles of matter and antimatter, achieving a significant increase in accuracy for antiprotons. This breakthrough could provide new insights into the nature of matter and help address fundamental questions about the universe.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 25, 2013

Females tagged in wasp mating game

Researchers at Simon Fraser University discovered that male wasp females are marked by pheromone transfers from the tip of their antennae when approaching potential mates. This marking system allows males to quickly identify high-quality females and establishes a mating advantage, while deterring rival males from approaching.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBehavioural Processes·DateJan 8, 2013

60th anniversary of NSF Grad Research Fellowship Program; UM fellow Staaterman's video recognized

The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science graduate student won a video contest recognizing her pioneering work on bio-acoustics and larval fish navigation. The award highlights the importance of science communication, with Erica co-directing a marine science film festival.

Psychopathic boldness tied to US presidential success

An analysis of 42 US presidents suggests that fearless dominance, a trait associated with psychopathy, may be an important predictor of presidential performance. This study found correlations between boldness and higher ratings for leadership, persuasiveness, crisis management, and Congressional relations.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 10, 2012

What is the value of a green card?

A University of Nevada, Reno economist found that employer-sponsored workers on temporary visas who acquire green cards increase their annual incomes by about $11,860. This is due to the six-year wait period for green card approval and employers' willingness to hold workers over 'a barrel,' limiting job opportunities and wage growth.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalDemography·DateFeb 21, 2012

Cut your Valentine some slack

A Northwestern University study shows that perceiving a partner's efforts to improve the relationship enhances feelings of security and happiness. The research suggests that acknowledging a partner's capabilities for change is crucial to building a happy relationship.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateFeb 13, 2012

Who's wealthy? Beyond net worth, asset and debt levels change our perceptions

A new study in Psychological Science finds that asset and debt levels change perceptions of wealth beyond net worth, with people in debt perceiving themselves wealthier when assets outweigh debt. Participants were asked which person or household was financially better off, and whether they'd borrow to buy something they couldn't pay for.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 10, 2012

'Trans-parency' in the workplace

A new study from Rice University and Pennsylvania State University reveals that transsexual employees who are open about their gender identity in the workplace experience greater job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The research also highlights the importance of a strong support system in fostering a positive work environment.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·DateNov 17, 2011