USC Dornsife in the News Archive - 2012

December

Friday, December 21, 2012

OC Weekly highlighted “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class” by Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. ’s high marks for effectiveness.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how the Los Angeles mayoral candidates need to differentiate themselves.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Reel Urban News interviewed Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about her report on African American philanthropy in Los Angeles.

December 15 to 17, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education featured Scott Fraser, USC Provost Professor of Biological Sciences and Biomedical Engineering and director of science initiatives. Fraser said that USC’s interdisciplinary nature is what attracted him to move his research to the university from the Institute of Technology (Caltech). Fraser added that USC Dornsife College Dean Steve A. Kay, also recently recruited to the university, likes to explore the limits of his field. Fraser is bringing roughly two dozen people with him from Caltech, three or four of whom will take lab leadership positions at USC. The Chronicle of Higher Education ran a second story.

KCET-TV’s “Departures” covered an induction ceremony for Los Angeles’ first poet laureate, chosen in part by Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC.

CBC News (Canada) featured “Planet Without Apes,” a new book by Craig Stanford of biological sciences, co-director of the Jane Goodall Research Center at USC, about possible extinction of the great apes and the biological knowledge that would die with them.

O.C. Weekly reported that “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class” by Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology has sold out of its print run. Press is planning a second hardcover run and a paperback edition. O.C. Weekly plans to host a lecture in which Vallejo will discuss her work. Cision Navigator featured USC Dornsife Magazine's augmented reality application in a story about augmented reality technology. Printing Impressions, Print Services and Distribution Association and Presentation Solutions also covered the application's debut.

Friday, December 14, 2012

The Atlantic featured USC Dornsife alumnus Samuel Krueger and his award-winning thesis, “Delimiting the Postmodern Urban Center: An Analysis of Urban Amenity Clusters in Los Angeles.” Krueger created a map of Los Angeles, assigning “centrality” scores based on a variety of factors, including entertainment, full-service restaurants and hotels. The work was also featured by KCRW-FM’s “Which Way, L.A.?”

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about retiring California state employees receiving large payouts for unused leave.

KQED-FM’s “Forum” interviewed David Kang of international relations and business about North Korea’s recent firing of a rocket.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

ABC News featured research by USC’s Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration finding that naturalizing eligible immigrants could boost the U.S. economy by at least $37 billion to $52 billion. As citizens, immigrants would see their earnings increase and enhance the economy as they spent more, the center found.

O.C. Weekly highlighted “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class” by Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology.

CBC News (Canada) quoted David Kang of international relations and business about North Korea’s recent launch of a rocket.

CBS News affiliate KCBS-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Proposition 30 and a recent story about corruption in state government.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis on former Los Angeles Mayor ’s 2002 gubernatorial campaign.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

The Scientist featured research by Brandi Reese, postdoctoral researcher in the Center for Dark Energy Biosphere Investigations, and a colleague on fungi found living in deep-sea mud. The discovery of these fungi, some of which belong to the genus Penicillium, could lead to the creation of new antibiotics.

O.C. Weekly mentioned that Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology was on the cover of OC Metro this past spring.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

L.A. Weekly featured “The International Relations of Middle Earth: Learning From the Lord of the Rings,” a textbook by Patrick James of international relations. James teaches a class on “The Lord of the Rings” and international relations, using the popular work to explain modern unrest and conflict to his students. The story was also covered by World Journal.

L.A. Weekly highlighted “The Tortilla Curtain” by T.C. Boyle of English, which is nominated in the paper’s tournament to determine the Best L.A. Novel Ever.

Nature highlighted research by Brandi Reese, postdoctoral researcher in the Center for Dark Energy Biosphere Investigations, on fungi found living in deep-sea mud. The research, which highlights the extreme environments that can sustain life, may also help pharmaceutical companies develop antibiotics to combat drug-resistant bacteria.

MundoFox Los Angeles affiliate KWHY-TV interviewed Pamela Starr of international relations about the inauguration of Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto.

LiveScience quoted Thomas Jordan, University Professor, W. M. Keck Foundation Chair in Geological Sciences, professor of earth sciences, and director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, about a group of scientists in Italy who were sentenced to prison after failing to warn the public of a devastating earthquake.

New York Daily News highlighted a lecture by Judith “Jack” Halberstam of American Studies and ethnicity, gender studies, and comparative literature, on Lady Gaga and feminism.

December 8 to 10, 2012

Holtz Communication and Technology blog featured USC Dornsife Magazine's augmented reality application in a story about how print is adapting a digital world.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about gay marriage as a political issue.

Friday, December 7, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education ran a Q&A with Judith “Jack” Halberstam of American Studies and ethnicity, gender studies, and comparative literature , author of “Gaga Feminism: Sex, Gender and the End of Normal.” Halberstam discussed the contradictory nature of singer Lady Gaga’s appeal as a feminist and cultural icon.

The Washington Post, in an story, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Sen. Jim DeMint stepping down.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

The Atlantic featured Selma Holo of art history, director of the USC Fisher Museum of Art. Holo was named as an inspiring mentor by USC alumna Mariana Amatullo, co-founder and vice president of Designmatters.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about lawyer and talk show host Kevin James’ run for L.A. mayor. KPCC-FM cited Schnur.

The Nation quoted Manuel Pastor of sociology and American studies and ethnicity about the political power of Latinos and other minorities in regards to climate change.

The Sacramento Bee reported that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, will be part of a panel about women’s impact on politics.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Press TV (Iran) interviewed Juan de Lara of American studies and ethnicity about immigrants in California.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Slate reviewed “10 Print,” a book by Mark Marino of the Writing Program and colleagues. The book takes a single line of BASIC code and uses it as a jumping-off point for considering creative computing in music and other areas. The book was also featured by Wired and Boing Boing.

PBS News Wilmington, Del., affiliate WHYY-TV interviewed USC Dornsife Dean Steve Kay about a study on fat “clocks” that may lead to obesity.

National Review cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 38 percent of California voters think the state is headed in the right direction. The poll was also covered by The Huffington Post and The Christian Science Monitor.

L.A. Weekly covered USC Dornsife alumnus Samuel Krueger and his award-winning thesis, “Delimiting the Postmodern Urban Center: An Analysis of Urban Amenity Clusters in Los Angeles.”

December 1 to 3, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Peter Westwick of history about NASA’s past publicity campaigns.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the GOP’s plans for making a comeback in California.

San Francisco Examiner quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about efforts to reform California’s initiative system. KCRW-FM interviewed G. Alexander Moore of anthropology, Lars Perner of the USC Marshall School and Richard Chase, professor emeritus of the USC Marshall School, about holiday shopping.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about former President ’s popularity.

La Opinion quoted Juan de Lara of American studies and ethnicity about a lawsuit filed against a Riverside Wal-Mart by its workers.

November

November 30, 2012

KCET-TV highlighted “Occupy the Mind: Pedagogy, ‘Capitalocentrism’ and the Arts Fantasy,” a cross- disciplinary discussion at USC on the Occupy movement. Participants in the event will include Noura Wedell and A.I. Steiner of the USC Roski School and Judith “Jack” Halberstam of American Studies and ethnicity, gender studies, and comparative literature, as well as students from USC’s American studies program, MFA program, and Art/Curatorial Practices in the Public Sphere MPAS program.

The New York Times cited a study by Jefferey Sellers of political science and environmental studies identifying a global public shift to a “stronger territorial attachment” at the local , rather than a stronger sense of global or national citizenship.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding strong support for California’s environmental laws.

China Daily (China) highlighted an upcoming lecture based on “Writing the South Seas: Postcolonial Literature and the Nanyang Imagination,” a book manuscript by Brian Bernards of East Asian languages and cultures.

November 29, 2012

Curbed L.A. featured USC Dornsife GIST alumnus Samuel Krueger and his award-winning thesis, “Delimiting the Postmodern Urban Center: An Analysis of Urban Amenity Clusters in Los Angeles.” Krueger created a map of Los Angeles, assigning “centrality” scores based on a variety of factors, including entertainment, full-service restaurants and hotels. The city’s core, according to the study, is what Krueger calls the Wilshire/Santa Monica Corridor.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, about eating habits. The story mentioned Wood’s research, in which moviegoers given popcorn ate just as much stale popcorn as those who ate a fresh batch.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Curbed L.A. featured USC Dornsife alumnus Samuel Krueger and his award-winning thesis, “Delimiting the Postmodern Urban Center: An Analysis of Urban Amenity Clusters in Los Angeles.”

November 22 to 26, 2012

The New York Times quoted Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, and policy, planning, and development, about the historical role of newspapers in California.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Inside Higher Ed featured Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, who spoke about his research on quantum computers, which could run calculations many times faster than ordinary computers. Lidar and colleagues built a quantum computer prototype in a diamond, which reduces decoherence, a common problem that prevents quantum computers from functioning properly. Inside Higher Ed ran a second story.

The Huffington Post ran a column co-written by Nake Kamrany of economics on avoiding depressions by reducing unemployment.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

NPR News’ “Morning Edition” interviewed Lanita Jacobs of anthropology and American studies and ethnicity about controversy surrounding the casting of Zoe Saldana in a Nina Simone biopic. The Huffington Post cited Jacobs.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on how demographic shifts and factored into the 2012 presidential campaign.

La Opinion covered a USC forum on the Latino vote, moderated by Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies. Telemundo Los Angeles affiliate KVEA-TV also covered the event.

Voice of San Diego cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll regarding California voters’ willingness to compromise.

ScienceDaily reported that Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies will speak at the American Geophysical Union fall meeting about life beneath the sea floor.

November 17 to 19, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that Californians feel more upbeat about the state’s general direction. The percentage of respondents who say California is on the right track stood at 38 percent — more than double the percentage in August 2011. The percentage of voters who say the state economy is starting to improve has almost doubled since July 2011, to 43 percent. Forty-seven percent of California voters said changes to the California Environmental Quality Act would be a good idea, Los Angeles Times reported. The poll was also covered by Associated Press, KCET-TV and Ventura County Star.

The Seattle Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the demographic challenges facing the Republican Party.

Bloomberg Businessweek highlighted research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that life satisfaction for the majority of China’s population has declined from 1990 to 2007, despite the country’s rapid economic growth.

Friday, November 16, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, finding that Californians strongly support the state’s efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions, but are sharply divided on the state relaxing requirements for environmental reviews. Roughly 32 percent of respondents said a cap-and- trade plan to limit emissions is a “job-killing tax,” while 63 percent said that California should reward green companies. Los Angeles Times noted that Californians report suffering from a poor economy, with 35 percent saying that a job loss affected them or their families in the past year, and 47 percent saying that they or a family member delayed a major purchase.

SmartPlanet ran a Q&A with John Monterosso of psychology about the degree to which people are responsible for their actions. He discussed an experiment he conducted in which people were given examples of bad behavior, with the cause explained as being either biological or personality-based. People tend to be more forgiving if the cause is biological, Monterosso said.

NPR News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about declines in Republican Party voter registration in California.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California budget cuts.

Voxxi quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s successful campaign to pass Proposition 30.

Los Angeles Daily News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about political robocalls.

The Sacramento Bee ran an op-ed which stated that Gov. Jerry Brown should meet with Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, to discuss the state of affairs in California.

The Orange County Register highlighted a lecture by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on the 2012 election results.

Thursday, November 15, 2012 Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that California Democrats and Republican voters aren’t willing to give ground when it comes to taxes and budget cuts. The poll found that three in five voters want elected officials to compromise. But when asked what to give up, Democrats strongly opposed benefits cuts, and Republicans strongly opposed revenue hikes. “Obama said the wealthy should pay their fair share. Romney said it would kill jobs. But neither one of them told voters that balancing the budget is a lot tougher than that,” said Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. The poll was covered by a second Los Angeles Times story and Star- Tribune.

Liberation (France) ran a Q&A with Steven Ross of history about his book “Hollywood Left and Right.” Ross said that, contrary to the opinion of Republicans who love to criticize “Hollywood leftism,” the right has had a presence in Hollywood for much longer than the left.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California voters’ approval of various tax and bond measures this year.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an obituary for USC alumna and Democratic Party leader Carmen Warschaw, who endowed a chair at USC in 2003. Warschaw and her late husband, USC alumnus Louis Warschaw, helped create the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics at USC in 1989 and established a lecture series that brings Jewish elected officials to speak at USC. NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV ran an obituary for Warschaw written by Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School.

L.A. Weekly quoted Patrick James of international relations about Mitt Romney’s strategy during the 2012 presidential campaign, and cited USC’s Election 2012 Web site.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Financial Times (U.K.) quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the passage of Proposition 30.

The Hindu () cited “The Internet Galaxy” by Manuel Castells, University Professor, Wallis Annenberg Chair of Communication Techonology and Society and professor of communication, sociology, planning, and international relations, on how digital technology has upset political and economic orders.

Latinos Post quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about ID cards that Los Angeles may soon make available to undocumented immigrants.

Yahoo! News covered research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that despite China’s economic rise, the majority of its people say they aren’t happier.

Hispanic Business cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that a majority of Californians supported Proposition 37 in Sept. 2012. A October 2012 poll showed that support shrunk considerably.

November 10 to 12, 2012

The Wall Street Journal highlighted an upcoming Visions and Voices: The USC Arts & Humanities Initiative event featuring Steven Ross of history. Ross is the author of “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.”

Daily News & Analysis (India) featured “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. The book was also covered by Salisbury Post.

Los Angeles Times quoted Leo Braudy, University Professor and Leo S. Bing Chair in English and and professor of English and history, about film and TV depictions of Abraham Lincoln.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the passage of Proposition 39.

Associated Press quoted Patrick James of international relations about Mitt Romney’s campaign strategy and why it failed.

BBC News (U.K.) mentioned research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that while China’s wealthiest were more satisfied with their lives in 2007 than in 1990, the rest of the population was not.

Friday, November 9, 2012

USA Today quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about growing acceptance of same-sex marriage.

ABC News interviewed Manuel Pastor of sociology and American studies and ethnicity about a plan for L.A. to offer ID cards to residents, regardless of immigration status.

Reuters quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a tendency for politicians to over-interpret the mandate they’ve been given.

Minnesota Public Radio interviewed Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about the role of changing demographics in the 2012 presidential campaign.

The Washington Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s Proposition 30.

L.A. Weekly cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that, if given the chance to vote on it again, a majority of California voters would turn down the high-speed rail project.

Jewish Journal reported that Cecil “Chip” Murray, John R. Tansey Chair in Christian Ethics and professor of religion, will speak at the Unity interfaith concert.

Thursday, November 8, 2012 The Economist featured research by Justin Hall, USC Dornsife doctoral student in integrated and evolutionary biology, and Michael Habib of the Keck School of USC on Microraptor gui, a four-winged dinosaur. They have proposed the dinosaur’s hind wings were used for steering, while the front wings were used for lift.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Proposition 36, which changed the “three strikes” law in California.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Ann Crigler of political science about local California governments lacking tax revenue.

Reuters quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the passage of Proposition 30, noting that the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found 46 percent of California voters in support of the measure.

Los Angeles Daily News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Rep. Brad Sherman’s successful 2012 campaign.

San Francisco Chronicle cited the USC Dornsife College/Los Angeles Times Poll regarding Californian voters’ support for marijuana legalization.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

United Press International featured research by Justin Hall, USC Dornsife doctoral student in integrated and evolutionary biology, and Michael Habib of the Keck School of USC suggesting that the dinosaur Microraptor gui had four wings. Habib and Hall proposed that the dinosaur could have kept the limbs under its body most of the time, until needed for banking in a turn. “In terms of aerodynamics, the hind wings would have increased its rate of turn by 33 to 50 percent, compared to using only the front wings,” Habib said. “No one’s going to argue that this was the fastest animal in the ecosystem,” Hall told National Geographic. He noted that a 33-percent increase in turning speed could mean the difference between “life and death.”

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, and policy, planning, and development, about Proposition 13’s impact on California’s political system.

The Desert Sun quoted Ann Crigler of political science about political character attacks as a sign of a tight race.

ProPublica quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about confusion surrounding the wording of Proposition 40.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll regarding support for Proposition 34, which would have ended the death penalty in California. L.A. Weekly also cited the poll.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012 The Huffington Post ran a column by Carol Muske-Dukes of English about Los Angeles radio host Patt Morrison being let go from KPCC-FM earlier this year. FishbowlLA highlighted the column.

Fox News Los Angeles affiliate KTTV-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the presidential candidates’ positioning relative to their voter bases.

KPCC-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about opposition to Proposition 32.

California Capital Network interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, the Republican and Democratic efforts to promote voter turnout.

Fox & Hounds Daily cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which showed President Obama ahead by 14 points in California. KQED-FM and L.A. Weekly cited the poll results regarding support for Proposition 37.

Firedoglake noted that USC American studies and ethnicity doctoral student Maytha Alhassen was one of the media correspondents participating in a third-party candidate presidential debate.

November 3 to 5, 2012

KPCC-FM featured research by Scott Fraser, Provost Professor of Biological Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, who is known for conducting a 1976 study on the behavior of trick-or-treaters who enter a house with two bowls: one with candy, and one with coins. The researchers found that when the owner of the house left the room, the children — especially those in large groups — would take more candy than allowed, or money, or both. The takeaway was that anonymity contributes to people violating social norms.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact on Gov. Jerry Brown’s power if Proposition 30 doesn’t pass.

NPR News Stillwater, Okla., affiliate KOSU-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about voting in California districts.

Pakistan Today (Pakistan) cited research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences finding that fasting can lead to the body repairing its own cells.

Santa Cruz Sentinel covered a talk by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, in which he analyzed the U.S. presidential race.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV ran a column by Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School about competition between Proposition 30 and Proposition 38. Jeffe cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll.

Friday, November 2, 2012 Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s efforts to pass Proposition 30. Schnur wrote that the governor’s support of California’s high-speed rail project undermines his appearance of fiscal concern. A USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found that 60 percent of voters would oppose the rail project if they voted on it today; support of Proposition 30 has dropped nine points in the last month and almost 20 points since spring.

KPCC-FM featured research by Brie Loskota, managing director of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture, and a colleague, finding that faith-based organizations represented close to two-thirds of the social service agencies involved in recovery efforts in New York after 9/11 and New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

The Jerusalem Post (Israel) quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about foreign policy in the 2012 presidential race.

Agence France-Presse quoted Steven Ross of history about Hollywood actors tending to be liberal.

KPFK-FM’s “For the Record” interviewed Steven Ross of history about his book “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.”

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 46 percent of California voters support Proposition 30. USA Today and Jewish Journal also cited the poll.

Smithsonian cited a column by USC Dornsife psychology graduate student Jason Goldman about animal species that enjoy dancing.

Monday, November 1, 2012

BBC News (U.K.) featured Manuel Castells, University Professor, Wallis Annenberg Chair of Communication Techonology and Society and professor of communication, sociology, planning, and international relations, and his research on the rise of alternative economic cultures online. Castells’ latest book is “Aftermath: The Cultures of the Economic Crisis,” which he discussed before an audience at the School of Economics. He said that consumer culture has been driven by the idea that acquiring newer, bigger and more material goods will lead to happiness; people are now reversing that assumption, but are still trapped within the old economic system.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30 had fallen below 50 percent.

October

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

CBS News Los Angeles affiliate KCBS-TV featured research by USC Dornsife College Dean Steve A. Kay on the body’s natural rhythms and peak times for completing certain tasks. Kay said that the best time for exercise is 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., while the best time to negotiate a deal is 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Negotiating involves a particular brain region, he explained. “It requires our ability to read how another person is reacting to us, and that is best just after we get up.”

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that negative ads have eroded support for a proposition requiring labeling of genetically modified food. Los Angeles Times cited the poll and quoted John Matsusaka of USC’s Initiative and Referendum Institute about slipping support for Proposition 30. The poll was covered by another Los Angeles Times story and San Jose Mercury News.

Entertainment Weekly quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about Chinese and Korean directors seeking crossover appeal in America.

The Huffington Post cited Margaret Gatz of psychology, gerontology and preventive medicine regarding the impact of isolation on the elderly.

Quill & Quire (Canada) mentioned that Vanessa Ruth Schwartz of history is a juror for this year’s Cundill Prize in History at McGill.

Metro (U.K.) mentioned that actor Bryan Cranston visited USC Dornsife’s Department of Chemistry to prepare for his role as chemistry teacher Walter White on “Breaking Bad.”

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Reuters highlighted the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30 has dropped to 46 percent. “Jerry Brown has successfully convinced Californians that putting additional money into public schools is a good thing, but he has not yet convinced them that the state government can spend the money effectively,” said Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. The poll was covered by another Reuters story, KPCC-FM, NPR News San Diego affiliate KPBS-FM and The Salinas Californian.

L.A. Observed ran a Q&A with Andrew Allport, USC Dornsife lecturer and alumnus, about his collection of poetry, “The Body | Of Space | In the Shape of the Human.”

Financial Times (U.K.) quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s role as a trendsetter and what that means if Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative passes.

Agence France-Presse quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about Latinos’ role in the 2012 presidential campaign.

NPR News San Diego affiliate KPBS-FM interviewed Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, and policy, planning and development, about ballot initiatives being driven wealthy private investors.

KQED-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California voters’ reluctance to vote for Propositions 30 and 38.

The Hill quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about House Speaker John Boehner attending a political fundraiser. BBC News (U.K.) ran an op-ed by USC Dornsife psychology graduate student Jason Goldman about animal species that enjoy dancing.

October 27 to 29, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that President Obama’s support in California has dropped since 2008. Obama’s lead in that year was 24 points over Sen. John McCain; his lead over former Gov. Mitt Romney is 14 points. In May 2012, the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll indicated that Obama’s support among “decline to state” voters was 58 percent to 34 percent. The recent poll also found that only 46 percent of California voters support Proposition 30; that 63 percent of voters support changing California’s “three strikes” law; that 46 percent of voters oppose Proposition 32, which would change California’s campaign finance system; and that the fight over Proposition 37, which would regulate labeling on genetically modified foods, was in a dead heat. Los Angeles Times also reported that the poll found only 46 percent of California voters today would support Proposition 187, a 1994 measure that would have barred illegal immigrants from public schools and hospitals. “Californians seem to be sending a message to the federal government that reasonable people ought to be able to find a solution to this problem, somewhere in between the ideological opposites of amnesty and self-deportation,” said Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. The poll was also covered by (India), Reuters, United Press International, The Atlantic, two San Francisco Chronicle stories (second link here), The Washington Times, The Huffington Post, The Sacramento Bee, KPCC-FM, ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC- TV, The Orange County Register, The Press-Enterprise, Hispanic Business and CBS News Santa Maria, Calif., affiliate KCOY-TV.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about former Gov. Mitt Romney’s team of advisers.

City News Service highlighted a talk by Lois Banner of history and gender studies, author of “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” about Marilyn Monroe.

Friday, October 26, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30, which stood at 64 percent in March, has dropped to 46 percent. Los Angeles Times ran stories about the poll’s results on Proposition 30’s waning support when compared with rival Proposition 38; on Proposition 37, a labeling initiative for genetically engineered food; and on Proposition 34 and Californians’ support for ending the death penalty. The poll found that being listed at the bottom of the ballot may not be an automatic death sentence for candidates and initiatives. The poll was covered by another Los Angeles Times story and KPCC-FM.

Thursday, October 25, 2012 Los Angeles Times ran several stories on the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30 has lost support among California voters. Support dropped among Democrats, young voters, public employees, and voters with children. Total support stands at 46 percent. The poll found that Proposition 30 has experienced opposition from both major parties.The poll also found that 44 percent of voters support Proposition 37, while 42 percent are opposed. The poll found that 66 percent of voters support a proposition modifying California’s “three strikes” law, while only 38 percent support a proposition replacing the state death penalty with life without parole. The survey found that 53 percent of voters support Sen. Diane Feinstein for reelection, while only 38 percent support Republican challenger Elizabeth Emken. The poll was featured by another Los Angeles Times story, Time, The Weekly Standard, KPCC-FM, The Fresno Bee and East Bay Express.

Wired featured research by Moh El-Naggar of physics and colleagues, finding that certain bacterial organisms are capable of linking together and channeling electrons through themselves as though they were cable wires. The Scientist reported that the bacteria, found in oxygen-starved mud, transfer the electrons through the mud to the surface, passing energy from one cell to the next along the way. The research was also covered by Smithsonian, Discover, The Press Association (U.K.), O Globo (Brazil) and RedOrbit.

NPR News Stillwater, Okla., affiliate KOSU-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the role of newspaper endorsements in presidential campaigns.

Sacramento News & Review quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s acumen as a politician.

Latinos Post cited Thomas Jordan, director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, about the conviction of several Italian seismologists.

South Florida Sun-Sentinel mentioned the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education’s archives include interviews with Jews who survived a daring escape from a train bound for Auschwitz.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Agence-France Presse highlighted Thomas Jordan, director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, who was consulted by the Italian government after the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake. Jordan offered forecasting recommendations to the government, and now opposes the recent conviction of Italian earthquake experts for not providing sufficient warning to the public before the quake. The story was also covered by Time, ABC Radio (Australia), Financial Times (U.K.) and CBS News Roanoke, Va., affiliate WDBJ-TV.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency featured an upcoming event sponsored by the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, covering sexual violence during the Holocaust. The event will be hosted by actress Jane Fonda, and will include a panel discussion with Stephen Smith, the institute’s executive director.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

The New York Times highlighted Thomas Jordan, director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, who after the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake led a commission to advise the Italian government on better ways to communicate earthquake risks to the public. Jordan said that the recent conviction of seven Italian scientists for not giving the public ample warning is incredible, “given that they have just convicted scientists for basically doing their job during a time of crisis.” Jordan was also highlighted by Inside Higher Ed, ABC News, CBS News, Fox News, El Mundo (Spain), International Business Times, Independent (South Africa), Tengri News (Kazakhstan), Science, NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV, L.A. Observed, LiveScience and CBS News Little Rock, Ark., affiliate KTHV-TV.

The Wall Street Journal quoted Jane Junn of political science about Asian-American voters as a demographic.

Fox News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the challenges posed to Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30.

Smithsonian covered research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences on the beneficial effects of fasting before chemotherapy.

October 20 to 22, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Sen. working to cultivate an image as a centrist.

Voice of America mentioned that the Southern California Earthquake Center at USC is an organizer of the Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Jewish Journal featured the exhibition “The Sota Project,” a video tapestry on display at the USC Fisher Museum of Art, and quoted Selma Holo of art history, the museum’s director.

KCET-TV highlighted late California poet and USC alumnus Robinson Jeffers through photos from USC Libraries and an interview with Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture.

Idaho Statesman highlighted research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that the year of one’s birth can affect lifetime earnings. The work was explained in his book “Birth and Fortune.”

Thursday, October 18, 2012

The New Republic ran a book review by Jacob Soll of history and accounting on “Double Entry: How the Merchants of Venice Created Modern Finance” by Jane Gleeson-White. The book is a history of “the father of accounting” Luca Pacioli. Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that Proposition 32 doesn’t have enough support to pass.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Politico ran a commentary by Christian Grose of political science on the second presidential debate.

The Rafu Shimpo featured “The Brothers Paranormal,” a new play by Prince Gomolvilas, acting director of the Master of Professional Writing program. The play centers on two Thai-American brothers who launch a ghost-hunting business.

BBC (U.K.) ran an op-ed by USC Dornsife psychology graduate student Jason Goldman on how animals communicate and whether language is unique to humans.

L.A. Weekly covered a Friends of the USC Libraries Literary Luncheon for Aimee Bender of English, author of “The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake.”

The Wrap cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 44 percent of California voters oppose Proposition 32.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Inside Higher Ed featured David Bottjer of earth sciences, biological sciences and environmental studies in a story on global warming and mass extinctions. Bottjer’s research has focused on changes in the ocean 250 million years ago, when volcanic eruptions dumped greenhouse gases into the air. As the planet warmed, roughly 90 percent of ocean species died, along with many land animals and plants. Inside Higher Ed highlighted Bottjer in a second story.

American Public Media’s “The Story” featured Thomas Ward of anthropology and his research on the MS-13 street gang. In his new book, “Gangsters Without Borders: An Ethnography of a Salvadoran Street Gang,” Ward details the process of earning the gang members’ trust so that he could learn about them and their culture.

Agence-France Presse featured research by USC Dornsife graduate student Mona Sobhani with Lisa Aziz- Zadeh of neuroscience, USC Dornsife graduate student Glenn Foxx and Jonas Kaplan of psychology, finding that whether we like someone or not affects how our brain works. The work was also covered by Press Trust of India (India), RT (Russia) and Die Presse (Austria).

KPCC-FM featured a partnership between USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute and the L.A. Philharmonic to study the impact of music on children’s brains. “Is it, for example, something that adds to the development, that increases the ability of children to be more socially well-tuned?” said Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute. Assal Habibi of the BCI said that the study will examine music’s role in children’s emotional and social development.

Associated Press interviewed Nicholas Warner of physics and astronomy, and mathematics about the physics surrounding daredevil Felix Baumgartner’s historic freefall. KQED-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30.

The Wall Street Journal mentioned research on how workers react to images of bosses, conducted by scholar Sook-Lei Liew while a graduate student at USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute and the Ostrow School of USC.

The Huffington Post cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 44 percent of voters are apposed to Proposition 32.

MinnPost highlighted a lecture by James Kincaid, Aerol Arnold Chair in English and professor of English, titled “Great Expectations and Death.”

October 13 to 15, 2012

The Times (U.K.) ran an op-ed by Mohammad Hashem Pesaran, John Elliott Chair in Economics and professor of economics, about a need to develop the financial sectors of emerging economies — like those in China and India — in order to prevent another financial crash.

Voice of America quoted Varun Soni of religion and Stanley Rosen of political science in a story about increasing numbers of Chinese students studying in the .

KPCC-FM highlighted Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, suggesting that he would be a worthy candidate for the Nobel Prize in Economics. Easterlin is known for the “Easterlin paradox,” which suggests that as citizens of a country get richer, they don’t necessarily get happier.

Los Angeles Review of Books ran an op-ed by Aimee Bender of English about the enduring appeal of the fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast.”

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about redistricting reforms leading to competitive congressional races.

Orlando Sentinel quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about race and identity.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the possibility of a lobbyist gift ban in California.

L.A. Observed cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about negative advertising in California politics.

Pioneer Press cited Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, on how the year of one’s birth affects lifetime earnings.

Los Angeles Times mentioned the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that a majority of Californian voters support Proposition 30, with very strong support among voters aged 19 to 29. Reuters reported that the poll found 66 percent of voters favoring Proposition 36.

InArkansas mentioned a lecture by Manuel Pastor of of American studies and ethnicity, called “Pathways to Racial Healing and Equity in the American South: A Community Philanthropy Strategy.” CNBC’s “Mad Money” mentioned that actor Bryan Cranston visited the USC Dornsife’s Department of Chemistry to prepare for his role as chemistry teacher Walter White on “Breaking Bad.”

Friday, October 12, 2012

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about dueling Propositions 30 and 38.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative has slipped.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

L.A. Weekly featured USC in its Best of 2012 issue. The designation Best Video Art Exhibit of 2012 was given to the Tree of Testimony, an exhibition at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust based on survivor testimonies from the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education. L.A. Weekly also featured two USC classes in its Best of L.A. Education section. “Human Survival: Learning From the Past,” taught by Lynn Swartz Dodd of archaeology, teaches students to make clothes, food and tools the way prehistoric humans would. “The Art of Political Bargaining,” taught by Jeb Barnes of political science, examines what produces gridlock and new legislation during the political process. In another L.A. Weekly article from the Best of L.A. Education section Mary Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology in the USC Brain and Creativity Institute, was interviewed about the role of neuroscience in education.

NBC News Houston affiliate KPRC-TV featured research by USC Dornsife graduate student Mona Sobhani with Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience, USC Dornsife graduate student Glenn Foxx and Jonas Kaplan of psychology, finding that whether we like someone or not affects how our brain works. The research was also covered by Indo-Asian News Service (India), News12, Fox News Indianapolis affiliate WXIN-TV and ScienceDaily.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found a slim majority of California voters supporting Proposition 39. NBC News San Diego affiliate KNSD-TV cited the poll finding that 55 percent of voters support Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30.

Press TV (Iran) interviewed Ange-Marie Hancock of the political science and gender studies about partisan politics fueling allegations of voter fraud.

Ottawa Citizen (Canada) quoted Karen Sternheimer of sociology about why people watch reality shows.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

International Business Times interviewed Mohammad Pesaran, John Elliott Chair in Economics and professor of economics, about the Eurozone crisis and Greece. Daily Mail (U.K.) featured research by USC Dornsife graduate student Mona Sobhani with Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience, USC Dornsife graduate student Glenn Foxx and Jonas Kaplan of psychology, finding that whether we like someone or not affects how our brain processes movement. The story was also covered by Asian News International, Europa Press (Spain) and Suddeutsche Zeitung (Germany).

Associated Press featured research by the USC Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration underlining the growing voting power of newly naturalized citizens. The research found that there are high concentrations of these voters in swing states that could be critical to the 2012 election. CBS News Las Vegas affiliate KLAS-TV highlighted the research, noting that newly naturalized citizens represent 5.1 percent of Nevada’s total voting-age population. The research was also highlighted in another Associated Press story and Univision Indio, Calif. affiliate KVER-CA.

Los Angeles Times cited a USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding levels of support between Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30 and Molly Munger’s Proposition 38. East Bay Express also cited the poll, noting that Proposition 36 has wide support.

La Opinion quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about diversity on music reality shows increasing as networks target bilingual Latinos.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30.

San Jose Mercury News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Propositions 34 and 36.

The Huffington Post ran an op-ed by Javon Johnson of American studies and ethnicity about achievement in the African-American community.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, highlighted research by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration on newly naturalized citizens and their impact on the 2012 election. During the past decade, this group of voters has registered at higher numbers, increasing their voting power, said CSII director Manuel Pastor. The research revealed that there are 7.8 million people of voting age who have been naturalized since 2000, or 3.6 percent of all potential voters. There are high concentrations of these voters in swing states such as Florida, Nevada, Virginia and Colorado. The Washington Post ran another Associated Press story about the study.

Pacific Standard featured “Self Comes to Mind,” a new book about consciousness by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute. Damasio wrote the book to lay out the framework for how and why consciousness developed in human beings.

KPCC-FM quoted Selma Holo of art history, director of the USC Fisher Museum of Art, about art curator Paul Schimmel opening his last show before leaving the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art.

October 6 to 8, 2012 Los Angeles Review of Books ran an op-ed by Jack Halberstam of American studies and ethnicity, gender studies and comparative literature about modern thinking on gender roles and his new book, “Gaga Feminism: Sex, Gender and the End of Normal.”

KPCC-FM featured research by the USC Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration on how newly naturalized citizens could influence the 2012 election. CSII released a report and online map showing the distribution of these voters across the U.S., pointing out that there are enough of them in swing states that they could have a significant impact on the election.

PC Gamer featured “Living Will,” an interactive story by Mark Marino of the Writing Program. The story is a contender in the annual Interactive Fiction Competition. Making selections in the last will and testament of the fictional E.R. Millhouse leads the “player” to discover more about the character’s life and those around him. The story was also covered by and Indie Games.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney having an “uphill fight.”

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30 and Molly Munger’s Proposition 38.

Los Angeles Times mentioned research by Dave Hutchins of biological sciences finding that acidified waters can induce toxic algae blooms that contaminate shellfish.

Friday, October 5, 2012

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that Proposition 39 is supported by 51 percent of registered voters. The Sacramento Bee reported that the poll found wide support for a proposition on labeling genetically modified foods. The poll was also cited by a second story in The Sacramento Bee, The Seattle Times, Advertising Age and Statesman Journal.

The Korea Times (South Korea) ran an op-ed by David Kang of international relations and business.

Reuters quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about politicians dealing with pension reform.

KQED-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s rhetoric supporting Proposition 30.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

The Wall Street Journal cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that Proposition 32, which would limit political spending by unions and corporations, is trailing by eight points. KPCC-FM cited the poll, noting that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative slipped to 54 percent.

International Business Times reported that USC graduate student Shili Xu, Nouri Neamati of the USC School of Pharmacy, Nicos Petasis of USC Dornsife, and USC graduate student Alexey Butkevich have found a new drug for ovarian cancer. The drug decreases the number of doses a patient needs and is effective for patients whose cancer has become drug-resistant. The research was also covered by RedOrbit.

Radio New Zealand (New Zealand) featured research by Yong-Gang Li of earth sciences and colleagues on the 7.1 Christchurch earthquake. Li and colleagues found that two faults are connected underground; if they had ruptured, it would have caused a 7.3 quake under the city of Christchurch. Stuff (New Zealand) also featured the work.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV featured a presidential debate viewing party at the USC Annenberg School, organized by the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics at USC. Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, said it was the most well attended debate viewing party in USC history. Several USC students were interviewed about the debate. Associated Press and CBS News Los Angeles affiliate KCBS-TV also covered the viewing party.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the effect of presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s debate performance on his campaign.

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about what voters will learn from the presidential debates.

The New York Times cited research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that the life satisfaction of China’s urban population doesn’t match the country’s rapid economic growth over the last 20 years.

Associated Press mentioned that USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife gave a $200 million naming gift last year to the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

The New York Times highlighted the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 44 percent of California voters oppose Proposition 32, an initiative affecting fundraising by unions and corporations. Another 36 percent supported it, and 19 percent were undecided. Los Angeles Times cited the poll, which found that Proposition 34 — which would end the death penalty in California — is losing 38 percent to 51 percent.

The New York Times highlighted a study by Lee Epstein, Provost Professor of Law and Political Science, and a colleague on the Supreme Court’s decisions from 1946 to 2011. They found that the John Roberts court was the most conservative one since the 1930s. The story also cited a study by Epstein and colleague on the justices’ political ideologies.

Slate highlighted “Moral Origins: The Evolution of Virtue, Altruism and Shame” by Christopher Boehm of biological sciences, and director of the Jane Goodall Research Center at USC.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Karen Tongson of English and gender studies on the evolving role of women in the James Bond series. CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about candidate Mitt Romney’s goals for the first presidential debate. Denver Post quoted Schnur about President Obama’s strategy for the debate. NPR News also cited Schnur.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Los Angeles Times reported that the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative still has a majority of support among California voters, though that support is slipping. United Press International featured the poll, which found that a majority of California voters favor a change to the state’s “three strikes” sentencing law. Sixty-six percent of voters support Proposition 36, which softens the law. The poll found that only 38 percent support ending the death penalty. The poll was also covered by two stories in The Sacramento Bee (second link here) and Fox News San Diego affiliate KSWB-TV.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s record as a centrist.

Lifehacker cited Steve Kay, dean of USC Dornsife, about the body’s natural circadian rhythms.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney retargeting his message toward the political center.

The quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the challenge of a wealthy candidate connecting with middle-class voters.

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported that Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity will lecture the Clinton School.

Indian Country Today mentioned that David Treuer of English is the son of Margaret Treuer, the first female Indian attorney in Minnesota.

September 29 to October 1, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that a ballot measure to replace California’s death penalty with life without parole has low support among voters. Fifty-one percent opposed Proposition 34, while 38 percent favored it. Los Angeles Times reported that the poll found strong support for a measure easing California’s “three strikes” sentencing law. Proposition 36 was supported by 66 percent of voters, with 20 percent opposed and 14 percent undecided or not answering. KPCC-FM reported that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax measure, Proposition 30, has slipped, though a majority of voters still support it. The poll was also covered by McClatchy Newspapers.

The Wall Street Journal featured a study by USC Dornsife psychology doctoral student Ravi Iyer and colleagues on the moral sensibilities of libertarians. The study surveyed 12,000 self-identified libertarians, comparing their personality surveys with those of liberals and conservatives. The study found that libertarians reacted to moral dilemmas with less emotion, reaching utilitarian conclusions. The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Olu Orange of political science about the creator of an anti-Muslim video that incited protests around the world.

CNN interviewed Steve A. Kay, incoming dean of USC Dornsife, about biological clocks and the optimal time of day for people to conduct different tasks. Kay was also quoted by CommonWealth (Taiwan) and Business Insider.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about billionaire Nicolas Berggruen, who is assembling a blue ribbon panel of experts to come up with solutions to California’s problems.

The Washington Post highlighted a lecture by Steven Ross of history on his book, “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.

September

September 29 to October 1, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that a ballot measure to replace California’s death penalty with life without parole has low support among voters. Fifty-one percent opposed Proposition 34, while 38 percent favored it. Los Angeles Times reported that the poll found strong support for a measure easing California’s “three strikes” sentencing law. Proposition 36 was supported by 66 percent of voters, with 20 percent opposed and 14 percent undecided or not answering. KPCC-FM reported that support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax measure, Proposition 30, has slipped, though a majority of voters still support it. The poll was also covered by McClatchy Newspapers.

The Wall Street Journal featured a study by USC Dornsife psychology doctoral student Ravi Iyer and colleagues on the moral sensibilities of libertarians. The study surveyed 12,000 self-identified libertarians, comparing their personality surveys with those of liberals and conservatives. The study found that libertarians reacted to moral dilemmas with less emotion, reaching utilitarian conclusions.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Olu Orange of political science about the creator of an anti-Muslim video that incited protests around the world.

CNN interviewed Steve A. Kay, incoming dean of USC Dornsife, about biological clocks and the optimal time of day for people to conduct different tasks. Kay was also quoted by CommonWealth (Taiwan) and Business Insider.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about billionaire Nicolas Berggruen, who is assembling a blue ribbon panel of experts to come up with solutions to California’s problems.

The Washington Post highlighted a lecture by Steven Ross of history on his book, “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.”

Friday, September 28, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, about social stability and economic growth in China. Easterlin — who is known for the “Easterlin paradox,” the finding that happiness doesn’t necessarily increase along with a country’s average income — pointed to the recent Foxconn riots as evidence that economic success isn’t always as important as having a strong social safety net or a good job.

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that support for Proposition 30 has dropped to 55 percent, from 59 percent in May. Democrats still largely favor the proposition, which would raise taxes on high earners for seven years and boost the state sales tax by a quarter-cent for four years. A strong opposition campaign could sink the measure, but Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, said that the “biggest question now is whether the opposition will have the money to get their argument heard.” Additional Los Angeles Times stories reported that voters approve of Gov. Jerry Brown’s reforms to the state pension system, and a majority favor an initiative requiring special labeling for genetically modified foods. The poll was covered by another Los Angeles Times story and CBS News.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

L.A. Weekly reported that Jan Amend of earth sciences and biological sciences, and colleagues, have been selected by NASA’s Astrobiology Institute to research subsurface life forms. The goal is to help detect subsurface life forms on Mars and other planets in the future.

The Orange County Register highlighted research by David Caron of biological sciences on how algae respond to nutrients along the Californian coast. This work could help scientists understand the cause of harmful algae blooms, the story reported.

U-T San Diego quoted James Fawcett of environmental studies about ports taking trade missions to encourage investment.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Bill Deverell of history about the hantavirus outbreak at Yosemite National Park, and the park’s role as a place of healing in America’s history.

The Wall Street Journal quoted Steve A. Kay, incoming dean of USC Dornsife on how circadian rhythms can be linked to diabetes, depression, dementia and obesity.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, and policy, planning and development in a story on the USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy’s inaugural symposium.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Imperial Valley Press featured an immigrant integration scorecard created by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration. The scorecard rated different counties in California using metrics like economic advancement, school performance and how welcoming the region was.

National Journal quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on what presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s campaign needs to be successful.

Times Colonist (Canada) quoted Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, about habits. The Jerusalem Post (Israel) mentioned the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, highlighting its dedication to preserving Holocaust survivor testimonies and making them accessible to educators and the public.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

The Record highlighted an immigrant integration scorecard created by USC’s Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration and quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity, and director of CSII.

Fox News Radio Laramie, Wyo., affiliate KOWB-AM highlighted research by the Southern California Earthquake Center in USC Dornsife, which is conducting a “cyber shake” with the help of University of Wyoming scholar Po Chen. The center will provide data on California to be fed into a supercomputer, which will identify areas with high-seismic hazards. The research can help communities strengthen their building codes, the story stated.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about fundraising pressures on both President Obama and Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

CNN interviewed Carol Prescott of psychology about how nature and nurture determine personality and ability to handle stress.

Science Codex highlighted a study by Sarah Greene of earth sciences finding that previously ignored carbonate deposits could hold valuable information about the acidification of the ocean’s waters.

Los Angeles Sentinel reported that Cecil “Chip” Murray, John R. Tansey Chair in Christian Ethics and professor of religion, will participate in a panel on healthy relationships.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Popular Science featured Moh El-Naggar of physics in its Brilliant 10 list of innovative young researchers. El-Naggar’s research focuses on bacteria that can move electrons to solid rock and create a small electrical charge. He discovered how the bacteria do this: by growing protein nanowires to move electrons to their surroundings. El-Naggar hopes to use this knowledge to develop nanostructures such as semiconductors for solar cells.

The Huffington Post ran an op-ed by Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity, and director of the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration, highlighting an immigrant integration scorecard created by CSII. The scorecard rated different counties in California using metrics like economic advancement, school performance and how welcoming the region was. Asian Journal reported that the scorecard was created by Pastor with Vanessa Carter, Rhonda Ortiz and Justin Scoggins of USC Dornsife and Anthony Perez of the Keck School of USC. KQED-FM covered the scorecard and interviewed Pastor.

The Christian Science Monitor cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 80 percent of California voters support doctor-recommended marijuana prescriptions for severe illnesses.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

California Watch featured a immigrant integration scorecard created by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration in USC Dornsife. The scorecard rated different counties in California using metrics like economic advancement, school performance and how welcoming the region was. The level of success with which immigrants integrate in California “is something in everyone’s interest,” said Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity, and director of CSII. The scorecard was also covered by La Prensa Grafica (El Salvador).

MSNBC interviewed Sherman Jackson, King Faisal Chair in Islamic Thought and Culture and professor of religion and American studies and ethnicity, about protests that have erupted throughout the Muslim world.

American Public Media’s “Marketplace” interviewed Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about the 2012 election.

KCET-TV mentioned research by Sergio Sanudo-Wilhelmy of biological sciences and earth sciences and colleagues, finding that the 1972 Clean Water Act was effective.

Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel highlighted research on how Botox injections can affect emotional mimicry, conducted by scholar David Neal when he was with USC Dornsife.

September 15-17, 2012

The Independent (Ireland) highlighted research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences on how fasting can increase longevity.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact of jail problems on support for Los Angeles County Sherrif Lee Baca.

Chicago Tribune quoted Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, about the value of habits.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the role of foreign policy in the 2012 election.

Friday, September 14, 2012

Los Angeles Sentinel featured the groundbreaking for Verna and Peter Dauterive Hall, a new center for social science research and teaching funded by a $30 million gift from USC alumna Verna Dauterive.

Agenzia Giornalistica Italia (Italy) featured research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences and colleagues finding that fasting can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy in brain cancer treatments. The story was also covered by RedOrbit, ABC (Spain), Science Codex and ScienceDaily.

Associated Press featured an immigrant integration scorecard created by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration, housed in USC Dornsife. The scorecard ranked 10 regions of California in terms of how well immigrants could integrate into the culture, using metrics like economic success today and over time. “The more they are integrated the more they can contribute,” said Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity, and co-director of the institute. San Jose Mercury News reported that Silicon Valley and the East Bay both had especially high rankings, with Santa Clara County being a standout in the state. The research was covered by another Associated Press story, NPR News and Bay Area News Group. NBC News’ “NBC Nightly News” interviewed Richard Dekmejian of political science and Karen North of the USC Annenberg School about a viral film that provoked protests and deaths in Libya.

Thursday, September 13, 2012

EFE (Spain) featured “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class” by Jody Agius-Vallejo of sociology. The Huffington Post and Hispanically Speaking News also covered the book.

The Globe and Mail (Canada) highlighted research by psychology postdoctoral fellow Darby Saxbe and colleagues, who identified a fragmentation of media consumption. The study found that only 1 percent of American households lack a TV, and more than half of households have three. In more 36 percent of observations, individuals in the household were watching TV alone.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the election impact of a census report finding median household incomes fell.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Inside Higher Ed highlighted research by Richard Brutchey of chemistry and postdoctoral researcher David Webber, who made a breakthrough in paint-on solar cells. Solar cells can be printed just as one prints a newspaper, Brutchey said.

Chicago Tribune quoted Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, on the value of habits.

CBS News Los Angeles affiliate KCAL-TV interviewed Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about the Republican and Democratic conventions.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

The Washington Post ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about political conventions’ usefulness, or lack thereof. Public interest in the conventions has flagged, Schnur wrote. He proposed that the Republican and Democratic conventions run simultaneously, which would force the parties to adjust their message and respond to criticism, giving voters a better public argument.

KPCC-FM’s “Brand & Martinez” featured “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class” by Jody Agius-Vallejo of sociology.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative.

Daily Mirror (U.K.) mentioned research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences finding that occasional fasting could reduce one’s risk of developing cancer.

September 8-10, 2012

The New York Times reported that T.C. Boyle of English has a new novel coming out. Houston Chronicle reported that Boyle will read from the book, “San Miguel,” as part of the Margarett Root Brown Reading Series. The Columbus Dispatch also highlighted Boyle’s book. The Washington Post quoted Richard Thompson of USC Dornsife about frequent health warnings desensitizing people to various dangers.

NPR News San Diego affiliate KPBS-TV ran interviews with Kevin Starr and William Deverell of history in “Inventing LA: The Chandlers and Their Times,” a documentary about the Chandler publishing family.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV interviewed Steven Ross of history about Hollywood mogul Louis B. Mayer, who Ross profiled in “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.”

C-SPAN reported that an essay by Lon Kurashige of history and American studies and ethnicity is included in the book “Colors of Confinement.”

The Boston Globe mentioned a stage adaptation of “Tortilla Curtain,” a novel by T.C. Boyle of English.

The Coloradoan mentioned that “Tortilla Curtain” by T.C. Boyle of English was among the past books featured by the Fort Collins Reads program.

Friday, September 7, 2012

Salon ran a Q&A with T.C. Boyle of English about his upcoming book, “San Miguel.”

Thursday, September 6, 2012

India Abroad noted that USC Dornsife recently established the first Hindu studies chair in the United States.

Bloomberg News covered a panel on politics and media at the Democratic National Convention, which included Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics.

Santa Barbara Independent highlighted research by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences on the geologic value of the Santa Ynez Valley’s Zaca Lake. Her research may determine that large flood events came after droughts or wildfires rather than during consistently wet periods, the story stated.

Reuters quoted Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about Democrats’ strategies for appealing to white voters.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact of former President Bill Clinton campaigning on behalf of President Obama.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Los Feliz Ledger featured the groundbreaking for Verna and Peter Dauterive Hall, a new social sciences building that will be built with funds from a $30 million gift by USC alumna Verna Dauterive.

Bloomberg Businessweek reported that Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke discussed research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, during a commencement speech. Bernanke spoke about the “Easterlin paradox,” which indicates that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income. World Journal featured Easterlin’s research on the happiness of urban Chinese citizens between 1990 and 2010. Easterlin found that the population showed no evidence of a marked increase in life satisfaction, despite China’s booming economic prosperity during that period. The research was covered by another World Journal story, Kaixian TV (China) and El Pais (Spain).

Houston Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about rising political stars Julian Castro and Ted Cruz.

LAist reported that Thorsten Becker of earth sciences will lead a LACMA gallery talk on rock formations in Michael Heizer’s photographs.

September 1-4, 2012

Los Angeles Times reported that Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC, is heading the blue ribbon panel of poets and literary scholars that will select L.A.’s first poet laureate. He told KPCC-FM that the panel is looking for a fine writer with a true commitment to community service.

The Japan Times (Japan) featured “Illicit Flirtations: Labor, Migration and Sex Trafficking in ” by Rhacel Salazar Parrenas of sociology.

The New York Times quoted William Deverell, professor of history and director of the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, about the history of regulations in the mythic West.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villraigosa. Schnur was also quoted by The Sacramento Bee and L.A. Observed.

Associated Press quoted Steven Ross of history about celebrity endorsements that have backfired.

Salisbury Post quoted Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC, about poet Joseph Bathanti being named North Carolina poet laureate.

August

Friday, August 31, 2012

The Wall Street Journal quoted Travis Longcore of spatial sciences about LAX’s impact on the nearby El Segundo Blue habitat.

CNN interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about conservative Hollywood celebrities. Voxxi also quoted Schnur.

The Huffington Post quoted Chauntelle Tibbals, visiting scholar in sociology, about sexually explicit images appearing on Instagram.

The Orange County Register quoted David Caron of biological sciences about a species of transparent creatures called salps that are washing up on the Southern California coast.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Patrick James of international relations about Ronald Reagan’s lasting appeal among Republicans. The Inquirer quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the use of social media at the Republican National Convention.

Jewish Journal highlighted a two-day workshop by the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education about resistance to racist ideologies and genocide.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Men’s Health highlighted research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences on the health benefits of fasting.

Toronto Star (Canada) cited Alice Echols, Barbra Streisand Professor of Contemporary Gender Studies and professor of English, gender studies and history, about singer Donna Summer’s “Love To Love You Baby.”

Herald-Tribune quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the networking that takes place in hotel conference rooms at political conventions.

L.A. Weekly highlighted a walking tour led by Thorsten Becker of earth sciences, who will explore exhibits at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art from a geophysicist’s perspective.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about taxpayers funding the Republican and Democratic political conventions.

The Washington Post reviewed “Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins,” a play by Alison Engel, an MPW alumna and associate director of the Los Angeles Institute for the Humanities at USC, and her sister Margaret Engel. Actress Kathleen Turner portrays journalist Molly Ivins in the one-person bio- drama.

BBC News (U.K.) featured a USC video and research by Don Arnold of biological sciences and colleagues, showing proteins moving through a neuron in the human brain. In the video, bioluminescent proteins from a jellyfish are used to light up the proteins and illustrate the inner workings of neurons. The work was also covered by RT (Russia), io9, Veja (Brazil) and Science Codex.

BBC News (U.K.) highlighted research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences on the health effects of fasting.

Hispanic Business quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the importance of the acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s approach to politics, and how it may not be viable in California at this time.

Irish Independent (Ireland) reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

Winnipeg Free Press (Canada) reviewed “Shadow of Night” by Deborah Harkness of history. The Ledger highlighted research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, finding that daydreaming can help students process information.

LAist highlighted the chamber opera “The Face,” composed by a USC Thornton School professor based on poems by David St. John of English.

August 25-27, 2012

The Modesto Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on findings from a recent PACE/USC Rossier poll.

The Sacramento Bee ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about fundraising while legislature is in session.

Los Angeles Times quoted Thomas Jordan, University Professor, W. M. Keck Foundation Chair in Geological Sciences, professor of earth sciences, and director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, about a swarm of earthquakes that struck the Brawley area this weekend. Jordan was quoted in two more Los Angeles Times stories (additional link here).

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a need for the Republican Party to broaden its support base.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the tech industry’s involvement in state politics.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the three constituencies of the Republican Party.

The Dallas Morning News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the challenges faced by President Obama and rival Mitt Romney.

CW News New York affiliate WPIX-TV interviewed Lois Banner of history and gender studies about Marilyn Monroe.

National Journal quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s messaging team.

Santa Cruz Sentinel quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the challenges facing Gov. Jerry Brown’s Proposition 30.

Friday, August 24, 2012

Daily Mail (U.K.) featured a video and research by Don Arnold of biological sciences and colleagues showing proteins moving through a neuron in the human brain. The video used bioluminescent proteins from a jellyfish to light up the proteins and illustrated the inner workings of neurons.The story was also covered by Asian News International, Indo-Asian News Service (India), Wired, Gizmodo, Discovery News and TG Daily.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about new documents regarding Mitt Romney’s tenure at Bain Capital. Thursday, August 23, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on findings from a recent PACE/USC Rossier poll. EdSource, San Francisco Chronicle, KPCC- FM, LA Observed, Ventura County Star and ABC News Sacramento, Calif., affiliate KXTV-TV also quoted Schnur.

CNN interviewed Jesse Graham of psychology about confirmation bias among voters when they’re reading election news.

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Julien Emile-Geay of earth sciences about global warming.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

MSNBC featured a study by Meghan Miller and Thorsten Becker of earth sciences on continental drift and the arc of the Caribbean islands. Miller and Becker ran 176 computer models to test predictions about the relationship between tectonic plates, reported International Business Times.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax initiative.

NBC News’ “Today” mentioned that USC was included in a list of the Top 20 happiest colleges, noting that USC has a strong alumni network.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured an opera composed by a USC Thornton School professor based on poems by David St. John of English.

International Business Times featured a study by Meghan Miller and Thorsten Becker of earth sciences on continental drift and the arc of the Caribbean islands. The researchers had to model the tectonic movements of the entire planet, which took several weeks at the USC High Performance Computing Center.The story was also covered by Houston Chronicle, RedOrbit and Science Codex.

The Gazette featured “Red Hot Patriot,” a play by Allison Engel, an MPW alumna and associate director of the Los Angeles Institute for the Humanities at USC. The play, written by Engel and her twin sister, tells the story of political columnist Molly Ivins.

Los Angeles Times quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about the portrayal of Latino immigrants on Univision and Telemundo series.

Los Angeles Times quoted Karen Sternheimer of sociology about groups that try to censor popular culture. Sternheimer is currently writing a book on the subject.

Los Angeles Times cited Leo Braudy, University Professor and Leo S. Bing Chair in English and American Literature and professor of English, about the importance of the novel “Catch-22.”

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s messaging toward conservative voters. California Watch quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California state legislators accepting gifts.

August 18-20, 2012

San Francisco Chronicle noted that Nayan Shah is the new chair of the USC Dornsife Department of American studies and ethnicity.

Men’s Health highlighted a study by Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, and scholar David Neal, who was with USC while the research was conducted, on mindless eating. They found that eating with one’s non-dominant hand made it more difficult to engage in mindless eating.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the economy’s effect on voters.

The Kansas City Star quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how politicians appeal to voters if they have few accomplishments to tout.

Tulsa World reviewed “Shadow of Night,” a new novel by Deborah Harkness of history.

Friday, August 17, 2012

The Tampa Tribune featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, on the reported happiness of urban Chinese citizens between 1990 and 2010. Easterlin found that the population showed no evidence of a marked increase in life satisfaction, despite China’s booming economic prosperity during that period.

C-SPAN interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about an organization he co-founded, No Labels, as well as about low voter turnout among young people.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about President Obama’s rhetoric in the 2012 campaign.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Fox & Hounds Daily ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a debate over California’s redistricting reform and the top-two primary.

Time quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s choice of Rep. Paul Ryan for vice president.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the challenges presidential candidate Mitt Romney faces in convincing voters he’ll look out for their interests.

Associated Press quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about Latino support for President Obama after a series of reforms affecting illegal immigrants. Daily Mail (U.K.) also cited Pastor.

Imperial Valley Press quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about the education and employment effects for immigrants when they are granted legal status.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012 Los Angeles Times quoted Steven Ross of history about political messages in Hollywood movies.

Fox & Hounds Daily quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative.

MinnPost quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the selection of Rep. Paul Ryan as presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s running mate.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

The Telegraph (U.K.) reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a new biography about Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

CNTV (China) interviewed Stanley Rosen of political science about the popularity of Chinese film festivals for American filmmakers.

North County Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the low proportion of undecided voters in this year’s presidential race.

August 11-13, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s potential appeal with Jewish voters.

Los Angeles Times quoted Karen Tongson of English and gender studies about how TV series in which men take on child-rearing duties suggest a shift in gender roles in the larger culture.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the effect of “going negative” in political campaigns.

Los Angeles Times cited research by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, finding that it can take up to six seconds for the brain to process a complex emotion.

The Globe and Mail (Canada) highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. Lincolnshire Echo (U.K.) also covered the book.

Friday, August 10, 2012

The Huffington Post ran a column by Nicholas Warner of physics, math and astronomy about the value of algebra. Responding to the assertion that it doesn’t serve much use in practical, everyday life, Warner wrote that algebra teaches students to think abstractly and search for the data they need to solve a problem.

The Tampa Tribune quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s potential vice presidential picks.

The Korea Times (South Korea) highlighted an op-ed by John Monterosso of psychology and a colleague, about research on how people view the link between the brain and moral culpability.

Associated Press highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies in a list of books commemorating the 50th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s death. Thursday, August 9, 2012

Los Angeles Sentinel reported that Mark Whitlock, executive director of USC’s Cecil Murray Center for Community Engagement, recently accepted the position of western province chaplain of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

Los Angeles Times mentioned that Los Angeles Times film critic Kenneth Turan is a faculty member at USC Dornsife.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Los Angeles Business Journal featured a partnership between pilot aquaculture project KZO Sea Farms and the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies. The institute will study environmental effects and advanced shellfish breeding techniques to facilitate the growth of a Californian aquaculture industry.

The Daily Star (Lebanon) cited Sherman Jackson, King Faisal Chair in Islamic Thought and Culture and professor of religion and American studies and ethnicity, regarding Islam and civic engagement.

Associated Press quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about the future for young male Latino and African-American workers.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how the economy will affect voters in the 2012 election.

La Opinion quoted Thomas Ward of anthropology about the role of women within gangs.

KSCI-TV interviewed Rhacel Salazar Parrenas of sociology about her book “Illicit Flirtations,” which studies migrants working as hostesses in Japan.

KPCC-FM reported that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, will speak with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa at an event today.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

MSNBC featured inexpensive, eco-friendly batteries developed by USC Dornsife researchers Sri Narayan, G.K. Surya Prakash, Aswin Manohar, Souradip Malkhandi and Robert Aniszfeld and colleagues. KCET- TV also covered the work.

BBC News (U.K.) highlighted research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences on the health effects of fasting. Daily Mail (U.K.) also covered the research.

The Star (Malaysia) highlighted a joint summer school session run by USC’s East Asian Studies Center (EASC) and Ewha Womans University. Students are given the opportunity to participate in local cultural programs offered by the South Korean school. “The Korean Studies faculty and EASC see it as a wonderful opportunity for students to gain first-hand cultural experiences while taking courses on Korea on site,” said Youngmin Choe of East Asian languages and cultures.

The Telegraph (U.K.) reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. The book was also covered by The Telegraph (U.K.), L.A. Weekly and CW News New York affiliate WPIX-TV. Associated Press highlighted a partnership between pilot aquaculture project KZO Sea Farms and the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies. The institute will study environmental effects and advanced shellfish breeding techniques to facilitate the growth of a California aquaculture industry. Dennis Hedgecock of biological sciences called the partnership “a milestone in aquaculture.”

Daily Mail (U.K.) quoted Lois Banner of history and gender studies about the enduring appeal of Marilyn Monroe.

Voice of America quoted Amy Parish of anthropology and gender studies about interactions between apes and humans in zoos.

U-T San Diego quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Republican Party’s fundraising issues.

La Opinion quoted Thomas Ward of anthropology about gang members finding employment with police departments after leaving gang life.

L.A. Weekly highlighted USC Dornsife graduate student Elisabeth Sedano, who conducted her geography dissertation on billboard advertising in Los Angeles, and the difficulty of getting city information on the subject. Curbed L.A. also covered the story.

August 4-6, 2012

The New York Times highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Banner about Marilyn Monroe, highlighting research from the new book. The book was also covered by The Washington Post, a Los Angeles Times book review, Financial Times (U.K.), CBC News (Canada), CBC Radio’s “Q” (Canada), The Guardian (U.K.), The Independent (U.K.), Daily Express (U.K.), The Huffington Post, KPCC-FM’s “Patt Morrison,” NPR Washington affiliate WAMU-FM’s “The Diane Rehm Show,” The Denver Post, Advocate and Charleston City Paper.

Los Angeles Times highlighted a partnership between the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies and pilot aquaculture project KZO Sea Farms. The institute will study environmental effects and advanced shellfish breeding techniques to facilitate the growth of a Californian aquaculture industry. The story quoted Dennis Hedgecock, Paxson H. Offield Professor in Fisheries Ecology and professor of biological sciences.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV interviewed Thomas Jordan, University Professor, W. M. Keck Foundation Chair in Geological Sciences, professor of earth sciences, and director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, about the society’s new study on the impact of a congressional budget bill. The study found that federal budget cuts could severely affect California’s earthquake readiness. “The impact of this type of deep budget cut would be debilitating,” Jordan said.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Republican Party leaders, most of whom he said are losing the stomach for the gay marriage debate.

Minnesota Public Radio cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about political polling undergoing major changes.

Friday, August 3, 2012 The New York Times reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. “Banner presents a rich and often imaginative narrative of Marilyn’s life,” the review stated. “By the end, Monroe feels at once like an earthly being — an almost-friend — and an enigma, still slightly out of focus and just beyond reach.” The story noted that last year Banner published “MM — Personal: From the Private Archive of Marilyn Monroe,” a collection of memoranda found in filing cabinets formerly owned by the star. “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” was also covered by Daily Mail (U.K.), Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, L.A. Weekly and The Record.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

LiveScience highlighted a video of Jill McNitt-Gray of biological sciences and biomedical engineering explaining the biomechanics that govern Olympic divers.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about gaffes by political candidates.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s potential choices for vice presidential nominee. A second Politico story quoted Schnur.

The Sacramento Bee reported that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, will attend a Sacramento Press Club luncheon.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

CBS News highlighted a video of Jill McNitt-Gray of biological sciences and biomedical engineering explaining the biomechanics that govern Olympic divers. The Huffington Post and The Gazette (Canada) featured the video.

KQED-FM ran a video on “Mirrorbox,” an art project being studied by USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute. The project allows two people to control digital images of each other’s faces, inducing a sense of empathy. Scientific American also ran the video.

Associated Press quoted Lois Banner of history and gender studies about actress Marilyn Monroe’s enduring appeal. Detroit Free Press also quoted Banner.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about controversies surrounding presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s trip overseas.

The Hill quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Sen. Joe Lieberman not being invited to the Republican and Democratic presidential conventions.

July

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

USA Today featured “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies, a new biography about Marilyn Monroe which includes never-before-seen photos of the actress. Monroe was the sex icon of her time, and is as renowned now as she was then, Banner said in another USA Today story. The book was also covered by The Scotsman (U.K.), Panorama (Armenia), Tribuna Hoje (Brazil), Vipado (Brazil), Bem Parana (Brazil), Correio da Manha (Portugal), TVI24 (Portugal), Asian News International and U-T San Diego.

Los Angeles Times reviewed “Shadow of Night” by Deborah Harkness of history. The Arizona Republic ran a Q&A with Harkness about the book.

Daily Mail (U.K.) ran an op-ed by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. Banner is the author of the new biography “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox.”

Scientific American featured a USC Dornsife video on the biomechanics of Olympic diving. In the video, Jill McNitt-Gray of biological sciences and biomedical engineering explained how athletes perform successful dives.

The Straits Times (Singapore) cited David Kang, director of the USC Korean Studies Institute, about Western depictions of North Korea.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s recent comments at the London Olympics.

The Boston Globe quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about people’s political views coloring their view of the economy.

The Christian Science Monitor quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about filmmakers making expensive changes to a “Red Dawn” remake in order to avoid offending China.

LiveScience quoted Robert Girandola of biological sciences about genetics determining success in so- called “non-skill” Olympic sports like running, swimming or weightlifting.

The Arizona Republic quoted John Callaghan of biological sciences about the use of the Olympics as a foreign relations tool during the Cold War.

Svenska Dagbladet (Sweden) highlighted the book “MM — Personal: From the Private Archive of Marilyn Monroe” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

The Sun cited a study by Michael Messner of sociology and gender studies finding that women’s sports received only 1.6 percent of sampled TV sports coverage.

July 28-30, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by John Monterosso of psychology and a colleague, about research on how people view the link between the brain and moral culpability.

Los Angeles Times highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies, which delves into Marilyn Monroe’s popular image as a “dumb blonde.” Banner said that while fascination with Monroe increased in the mid-’70s, the last 12 years have seen an exceptional explosion in interest. “The paradox is she was many, many things at the same time ... some of that was in her nature, some of that was constructed,” Banner told BBC Radio (U.K.). “She was in fact very, very intelligent.” The book was also covered by Current TV’s “The Young Turks” and Fort Worth Star- Telegram. ABC Radio (Australia) featured Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, and his research on quantum computing. The story highlighted a quantum computer housed at the Viterbi School’s Information Sciences Institute.

Friday, July 27, 2012

The Huffington Post featured “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox” by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

The Huffington Post ran a column written by Nake Kamrany of economics, and USC students Jessica Greenhalgh and Justin McGinnis on American health care policy.

Limerick Leader (Ireland) cited research by Timothy Biblarz of sociology and a New York University colleague on children raised by same-sex couples.

The Huffington Post mentioned that former USC Dornsife graduate student Kenneth Hayworth is developing a computer simulation to duplicate a human brain.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV featured USC’s success in the Olympic games. “A USC athlete has won a gold medal in every single Summer Games since 1904,” said Oxford professor and USC alumnus Walter Ladwig. Ladwig attended a reception for USC athletes and alumni, hosted by the USC Alumni Club of London. Since 1904, USC has had roughly 400 Olympians and won 123 gold, 78 silver and 61 bronze medals. Thirty-nine Trojans will compete in the London 2012 Olympics. “I came out of USC, and we train hard and we fight on,” said USC Dornsife alumna and Olympic sprinter Carol Rodriguez. KNBC also ran a blog post and Storify summary highlighting the reception.

Los Angeles Review of Books ran a podcast featuring “A People’s Guide to Los Angeles” by Laura Pulido of American studies and ethnicity and USC Dornsife alumnae Laura Barraclough and Wendy Cheng. The podcast follows Pulido and Cheng on a walking tour of sites from the book, as they explain each locale’s significance to L.A. cultural history.

Discovery News featured research by Sergio Sanudo-Wilhelmy of biological sciences and earth sciences and colleagues, finding that “vitamin deserts” in the ocean have an effect on plankton levels. International Business Times and ScienceDaily also featured the study.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about rhetoric in the 2012 presidential race.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on how voters view the economy in relation to the presidential race.

Newsday reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a biography on Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Science Codex featured research by Joshua West, Wilford and Daris Zinsmeyer Early Career Chair in Marine Studies and assistant professor of earth sciences, finding that chemical weathering — the process that generates resources that support and shape life on Earth — occurs in both soils and rocks. The study found that landscapes without soil can still play a significant role in sustaining life.

The Guardian (U.K.) quoted Juan de Lara of American studies and ethnicity about labor conditions at Walmart.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how the economy could affect the 2012 presidential race.

NPR Austin, Texas, affiliate KUT-FM aired a Q&A with Deborah Harkness of history about her new book “Shadow of Night.”

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Europa Press (Spain) featured research by Sergio Sanudo-Wilhelmy of biological sciences and earth sciences and colleagues, finding that “vitamin deserts” in the ocean have an effect on plankton levels. The story reported that Sanudo-Wilhelmy and his team are the first to identify the long-hypothesized vitamin-depleted zones. They found a lack of vitamin B at certain depths of the ocean off the coast of California and Baja Mexico. The researchers believe that the vitamin deficiency could influence red tides, a kind of toxic algae bloom. This is another twist to what limits life in the ocean, Sanudo-Wilhelmy said.

Los Angeles Times cited David Kang of international relations and business, director of the USC Korean Studies Institute, about a lack of information about North Korea.

Indo-Asian News Service (India) quoted Chauntelle Tibbals, visiting scholar in sociology, about the use of social media in the adult film industry.

North County Times cited Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history and policy, planning and development, about the role that history plays in defining a people, and the role that state parks play in preserving that history.

July 21-23, 2012

The Guardian (U.K.) ran an excerpt from the Marilyn Monroe biography “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” written by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. St. Louis Post-Dispatch reviewed the book.

Los Angeles Times quoted Leo Braudy, University Professor and Leo S. Bing Chair in English and American Literature and professor of English, about the influence of World War I on art.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about rhetoric in the presidential race after the shootings in Aurora, Colo.

KPCC-FM’s “Off-Ramp” highlighted the “Easterlin paradox,” named after Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, which indicates that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income.

Friday, July 20, 2012

J. Weekly featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education’s IWitness program, an online application that lets high school students and teachers search through the institute’s Holocaust survivor testimonies. The story covered a student film made using testimony from iWitness, connecting a high school student with a Holocaust survivor.

NBC News Philadelphia affiliate WCAU-TV featured Deborah Harkness of history and her new book, “Shadow of Night.” The book combines historical fact with fantasy, following the story of a historian sucked into a world of magical intrigue. “I teach at the University of Southern California, and I was really thinking of my own students when I wrote the books,” Harkness said. “Shadow of Night” is the second installment of a trilogy; Warner Bros. has already bought the rights to all three books. The Plain Dealer highlighted a discussion of the book to be hosted by Harkness.

Contra Costa Times highlighted a hike led by Robert de Groot of earth sciences to teach grade school science teachers more about the San Andreas Fault. The hike was part of the STEM Service Learning Institute, a regular series of conferences for Southern Californian science teachers.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the two sides battling over California Proposition 37, which would require labeling of genetically modified food.

CNN interviewed Chauntelle Tibbals, visiting scholar in sociology, about adult film stars using Twitter to reach out to fans.

NPR’s “Talk of the Nation” interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s potential vice presidential picks.

Reason.tv interviewed Karen Sternheimer of sociology about anxious cultural reactions to video games and other forms of media throughout history. Gameranx cited Sternheimer.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

CNN ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s choices for vice presidential running mate. Schnur wrote that it’s less likely Romney will select someone like Florida Sen. Marco Rubio or New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who are potentially riskier choices than former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty or Ohio Sen. Rob Portman. "Romney’s most important decision as a presidential candidate will be to decide whether it is more dangerous to be risky or risk-averse," Schnur wrote.

National Journal quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the role former Vice President Dick Cheney could play in the 2012 presidential election.

Minnesota Public Radio interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the methods used to get voters to the polls.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted David Kang of international relations and business, director of the USC Korean Studies Institute, about North Korea taking small steps to open up to the world.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about hot- button issues in the presidential race, including health care and the candidates’ relationships to Bain Capital and Solyndra. United Press International quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the 2012 presidential campaign being the most expensive in American history.

Contra Costa Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about speculation that Condoleeza Rice could be Mitt Romney’s vice presidential running mate.

The Plain Dealer reviewed "Shadow of Night" by Deborah Harkness of history. io9 mentioned that actor Bryan Cranston visited the USC Dornsife Department of Chemistry to prepare for his role as chemistry teacher Walter White on "Breaking Bad."

July 14-16, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a biography of Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. The book investigates Monroe as a post- feminist figure. The Buffalo News also reviewed “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox.”

The Chronicle of Higher Education featured Kenneth Hayworth, a former USC Dornsife graduate student who is searching for a way to preserve the human brain and have it digitally uploaded to a computer. Hayworth began his studies at USC in 2003 and joined the lab of Irving Biederman of neurosciences, psychology and computer science, where he conducted fMRI research on the human visual system.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about proposed reforms to the office of the presidency.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about political partisanship damaging both the Republican and Democratic parties.

Friday, July 13, 2012

USA Today highlighted the book "Shadow of Night" by Deborah Harkness of history.

DNAinfo mentioned that researchers at USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute are studying “Mirrorbox,” an art project that allows two people to control digital images of each other’s faces.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

India West reported that USC will create the first chair of Hindu studies in the United States funded by the Indian-American community. A $3.24 million gift from the Dharma Civilization Foundation will establish the Swami Vivekananda Visiting Faculty in Hindu Studies and the Dharma Civilization Foundation Chair in Hindu Studies at the USC Dornsife College, promoting the study of Indian civilization. “USC has a long history of welcoming and embracing people from a wide variety of cultures and creeds, backgrounds and beliefs,” said USC President C. L. Max Nikias.

The Plain Dealer reviewed "Moral Origins: The Evolution of Virtue, Altruism and Shame" by Christopher Boehm of biological sciences. The book tries to reconcile altruism with different understandings of Darwin’s theory of evolution. Boehm’s book suggests that altruism evolved out of the development of a human conscience, which in turn developed out of egalitarian hunter-gatherer societies. Forbes cited the book. The Wrap quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about the possibility that Hollywood is sanitizing the world’s view of China in order to maintain a favorable relationship with the country.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

USA Today reviewed "Shadow of Night" by Deborah Harkness of history. Harkness, a historian of science, married historical fact with supernatural fantasy while writing the book. The book is the second volume of a planned trilogy.

Forbes featured research by Andrew Curtis of American studies and ethnicity using geospatial video to collect data about disaster areas, which can be used in relief efforts. The story highlighted Curtis’ recent work studying the cholera outbreak in Haiti. Curtis used small, GPS-encoding cameras attached to car windows in order to record video and maps of risk hotspots that could spread the disease. These included open sewer trenches and potentially contaminated water on routes to local water pumps. “Ultimately, what you’re trying to do is identify where the riskiest locations are,” he said. The story also noted his previous work charting the recovery of neighborhoods hit by Hurricane Katrina. Prior to this, agencies like the Red Cross had to document disaster damage by hand on a paper “street sheet.”

CBS News quoted Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about challenges facing Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

NPR News reviewed “Shadow of Night” by Deborah Harkness of history. The novel is the second in a planned trilogy that combines historical realism with fantasy and the supernatural. The review notes that Harkness, a historian of science, is the perfect person to pull of a mix that some readers have called “Harry Potter for intellectuals.”

CNN interviewed Stanley Rosen of political science about the relationship between Hollywood and China.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about thinly veiled political campaign events.

Epoca (Brazil) quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about Enrique Pena Nieto, president-elect of Mexico.

July 7-9, 2012

The New York Times reviewed “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life” by David Treuer of English. The book shifts from autobiography to Native American history and cultural study of the modern reservation.

USA Today included the novel “Shadow of Night” by Deborah Harkness of history, in a list of hottest new books. NPR’s “All Things Considered” featured the novel, noting that Harkness specializes in the history of science and medicine, writing books that blend historical realism and fantasy. Houston Chronicle and Female First (U.K.) ran Q&As with Harkness about her book. “Shadow of Night” was also covered by Daily Mail (U.K.), Phuket Gazette (Thailand), Entertainment Weekly, The Miami Herald, U-T San Diego, Variety, North County Times, Bucks County Courier Times and Chico Enterprise-Record. The Philadelphia Inquirer reviewed “Pity the Beautiful,” a new poetry collection by Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC and former chair of the National Endowment of the Arts.

Los Angeles Times quoted Thomas Jordan of geological sciences about Vladimir Keilis-Borok, a scholar who has studied earthquake prediction.

Daily Mail (U.K.) cited David Schwartz of psychology and education about birthday party fight videos appearing on YouTube.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about college affordability as a hot political issue.

Los Angeles Times mentioned the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 59 percent of California voters would vote against the high-speed rail project if given the chance to revisit it. Xinhua (China) also cited the poll.

The Huffington Post reported that Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity spoke at the National Council of La Raza Annual Conference about the Latino vote.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Pamela Starr of international relations about Enrique Pena Nieto, president-elect of Mexico.

United Press International featured research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, and colleagues, on the benefits students get from daydreaming. “What are we doing in schools to support kids turning inward?” Immordino-Yang asked.

Los Angeles Times quoted Cecil “Chip” Murray of religion about L.A.’s Dunbar Hotel, which was built in 1928 by John Somerville, USC’s first African American graduate.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about critics of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the role the health care debate will play in the 2012 presidential election.

Al Jazeera interviewed Gerardo Munck of international relations about the role of the media in Latin American politics.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney “playing defense.”

New Scientist cited Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, about the human mind’s “core self,” a representation of an innate feeling of subjective awareness.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the role of the economy in the 2012 presidential election. The Columbus Dispatch mentioned the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 55 percent of Californians would vote against the state high-speed rail project if given another chance.

July 4-5, 2012

Indo-Asian News Service featured research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, and colleagues, on the benefits students get from daydreaming. The Huffington Post also featured the study.

The New York Times quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about Enrique Pena Nieto becoming president of Mexico. An op-ed Starr wrote on the subject was cited by Excelsior (Mexico), The Guardian (U.K.) and The Week.

Press Trust of India (India) quoted Kenneth Nealson of environmental studies,earth sciences and biological sciences about a recent study finding that the rise of mushrooms 300 million years ago may have stopped the formation of coal deposits. Wprost (Poland) and Science Codex also cited Nealson.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the presidential election. A second Politico story cited Schnur.

Fox & Hounds Daily quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax proposal. A second Fox & Hounds Daily story quoted Schnur.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 59 percent of Californians would vote against a state high-speed rail project if given the chance to vote again. The story quoted Dan Schnur of the USC Dornsife College on the subject.

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Daily Mail (U.K.) featured research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, and colleagues, on the benefits students get from daydreaming. The study was also covered by Asian News International, RedOrbit and Latinos Post.

The Wall Street Journal quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about the Mexican election. Excelsior (Mexico) and KPCC’s “Patt Morrison” also quoted Starr.

The Times of India (India) quoted Kenneth Nealson of environmental studies, earth sciences and biological sciences about a study suggesting that the arrival of fleshy fungi species may have stopped the formation of coal deposits roughly 300 million years ago.

The Arizona Republic quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential priorities regarding immigration reform.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the U.S. Supreme Court health care ruling and the presidential race.

Science Codex highlighted research by Joshua West of earth sciences on weathering of the earth’s surface.

June 30-July 2, 2012 The Washington Post ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact of the Supreme Court’s health care decision on the presidential race.

Los Angeles Times quoted Judith “Jack” Halberstam of English, American studies and ethnicity, and gender studies about tough female characters on TV, and noted that she is the author of “Gaga Feminism: Sex, Gender and the End of Normal.”

National Journal mentioned that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, participated in a poll on whether recent immigration issues would prompt higher Latino voter turnout in November.

Odyssey Magazine featured work that Jill McNitt-Gray of biological sciences and biomedical engineering is doing with Olympic hopefuls to help them improve their athletic performance.

June

June 30-July 2, 2012

The Washington Post ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the impact of the Supreme Court’s health care decision on the presidential race.

Los Angeles Times quoted Judith “Jack” Halberstam of English, American studies and ethnicity, and gender studies about tough female characters on TV, and noted that she is the author of “Gaga Feminism: Sex, Gender and the End of Normal.”

National Journal mentioned that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, participated in a poll on whether recent immigration issues would prompt higher Latino voter turnout in November.

Odyssey Magazine featured work that Jill McNitt-Gray of biological sciences and biomedical engineering is doing with Olympic hopefuls to help them improve their athletic performance.

Friday, June 29, 2012

India America Today reported that USC will create the first chair of Hindu studies in the United States funded by the Indian-American community. A $3.24 million gift from the Dharma Civilization Foundation will establish the Swami Vivekananda Visiting Faculty in Hindu Studies and the Dharma Civilization Foundation Chair in Hindu Studies in USC Dornsife promoting the study of Indian civilization. Press Trust of India (India) also covered the news.

The Washington Post ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the significance of the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act.

Foreign Affairs ran an op-ed by Pamela Starr of international relations on what the presidential election means for the drug war.

The Guardian (U.K.) quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about Mexican presidential candidate Enrique Pena Nieto. New Scientist quoted Yuri Gorby of biological sciences about deep sea bacteria that are capable of passing electrons through one another, which facilitates breathing.

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Supreme Court’s decision on the Affordable Care Act. City News Service also quoted Schnur.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran a review of “A People’s Guide to Los Angeles” by Laura Pulido of American studies and ethnicity and colleagues, a historical guide to cultural struggle and social change in L.A.

Los Angeles Times ran a Q&A with Craig Stanford of biological sciences and anthropology, and co- director of USC’s Jane Goodall Research Center, about the killing of a baby chimpanzee by an adult male chimp at the Los Angeles Zoo. Another Los Angeles Times story quoted Stanford.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Press Trust of India (India) reported that USC will create the first chair of Hindu studies in the United States funded by the Indian-American community. A $3.24 million gift from the Dharma Civilization Foundation will establish the Swami Vivekananda Visiting Faculty in Hindu Studies and the Dharma Civilization Foundation Chair in Hindu Studies in USC Dornsife, promoting the study of Indian civilization. “We are very proud to house the first chair of Hindu studies in the United States endowed by the Indian- American community,” said USC President C. L. Max Nikias. “I believe that this is a watershed moment for the Indian-American community,” said USC Dean of Religious Life Varun Soni, who is the first Hindu to serve as chief religious leader of an American university. “This historic gift to the USC School of Religion highlights the department’s commitment to study the enduring questions of human life and values from a global perspective,” added USC School of Religion Director Duncan Williams.

The Record featured a study by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration in USC Dornsife and the California Immigrant Policy Center, finding that immigrants boost local economies, stay in one place longer than people realize, and generally have a higher rate of employment than native-born residents. Immigrants earn higher incomes the longer they live in one place. “These are all good signs of moving forward,” said Manuel Pastor, co-director of the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration.

The Telegraph (U.K.) cited Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, regarding a patient of his who suffered impaired emotions as a result of a brain tumor.

KPCC-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about efforts to pass California’s budget.

Merced Sun-Star cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, regarding partisanship in Californian politics.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

The Times of India (India) reported that USC will create the first chair of Hindu studies in the United States funded by the Indian-American community. A $3.24 million gift from the Dharma Civilization Foundation will establish the Swami Vivekananda Visiting Faculty in Hindu Studies and the Dharma Civilization Foundation Chair in Hindu Studies in USC Dornsife. The story noted that more than 1,800 Indian students are currently enrolled at USC and that the university boasts three Nobel Prize winners.

Los Angeles Times reported that the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education has finished preserving more than 52,000 Holocaust survivor testimonies, the culmination of an 18-year project. The foundation became part of USC Dornsife in 2006, and turned its attention to conserving testimonies in new ways.

The Huffington Post ran a column by Lois Banner of history and gender studies about Margaret Mead and Marilyn Monroe, describing them as feminist figures with much in common. Banner wrote that both had insatiable curiosity about the world around them, and held views about the role and value of sex that were at odds with their times.

The Washington Post quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on the Supreme Court’s impending ruling on President Obama’s health care law and what it will mean for the 2012 presidential election.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Republican Gov. Chris Christie’s appeal as a presidential running mate.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and gender studies about women as a critical electorate for the Republican Party. ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV cited Hancock.

Associated Press quoted Karen Sternheimer of sociology about media depictions of females in movies like “Brave.”

La Opinion quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about illegal immigrants working in the U.S. and their contributions the economy.

Deccan Chronicle (India) highlighted a study by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences and colleagues, finding that ancient Antarctica was once much warmer and wetter than previously thought, and that climate change could return it to those conditions.

June 23-25, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education highlighted predictions by Judith "Jack" Halberstam of English, American studies and ethnicity, and gender studies that the culture’s changing attitudes toward sex and emotional connections will lead to new, alternative forms of marriage.She predicts that the future will see a rise of different kinship structures like queer families and community parenting.

The Huffington Post ran a column by Nicholas Warner of physics, astronomy and mathematics about an interview he gave to a journalism student. After describing a bleak distant future for both humanity and the universe, the student asked what science could do to help guide people. Warner wrote that though he’s an atheist, he found himself thinking of a friend’s Buddhist philosophies.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the campaign against Proposition 29’s tobacco tax. St. Louis Post-Dispatch highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a new biography about Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Asian News International featured a study by the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration at USC Dornsife and the California Immigrant Policy Center, finding that more than a quarter of the state’s residents are immigrants, and that these immigrants are becoming more settled over time. Roughly 61 percent of immigrants participate in the labor force, the study found, versus 57 percent of non- immigrants. “Their substantial contributions as workers and consumers help fuel the state’s economy and are spread throughout many California regions,” said Manuel Pastor, director of the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration. The research was also covered by KPCC-FM, La Opinion, The Fresno Bee and Los Angeles Daily News.

Ms. reviewed “Gaga Feminism: Sex, Gender and the End of Normal” by Judith “Jack” Halberstam of English, American studies and ethincity, and gender studies. The book examines shifts in gender and sexuality, many of which are reflected through pop culture and pop-cultural figures like Lady Gaga.

The Globe and Mail (Canada) quoted Patrick James of international relations about an educational initiative sponsored by the Canadian government.

Scientific American highlighted a series of columns written this year about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program authored by USC Dornsife students and faculty.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

National Geographic featured a study by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences and colleagues, finding that ancient Antarctica was once much warmer and wetter than previously thought and that climate change could return it to those conditions. Examining the chemical information in leaf wax, the study’s authors could discern what the climate conditions were like millions of years ago.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Le Monde (France) featured a study by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences and colleagues, finding that ancient Antarctica was once much warmer and wetter than previously thought. Press Trust of India (India) reported that, if emissions continue as they have, atmospheric carbon will reach the same level by the end of this century as that in the period studied by Feakins. The story was also covered by China Radio International (China), Europa Press (Spain), ANSA (Italy), Agenzia Giornalistica Italia (Italy), Metro TV (Indonesia) and Sueddeutsche Zeitung (Germany).

Scientific American ran a column by Jim Haw of environmental studies about the school’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

The New York Times featured data drawn up by Lee Epstein, Provost Professor of Law and Political Science, and a colleague from Washington University in St. Louis, about one-vote majority decisions in orally argued Supreme Court cases. From 1946 through 2010, justices issued one-vote majority opinions on 1,205 out of 7,259 cases. The statistics also revealed that Chief Justice John Roberts beat other chief justices for the greatest share of five-four splits. United Press International featured a study by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences and colleagues, finding that ancient Antarctica was once much warmer and wetter than previously thought and that climate change could return it to those conditions. Examining the chemical information in leaf wax, the study’s authors could discern what the climate conditions were like millions of years ago. Feakins told RadioLive’s “Drive” (New Zealand) that summer temperatures around the study site would have been about 11 degrees warmer than they are today, with shrubs growing along the Antarctic coast. “We knew the Miocene was a warm period, but it was surprising how much vegetation we found evidence for,” Feakins said. The research was also covered by KPCC-FM, Press TV (Iran), Stuff (New Zealand) and La Tercera (Chile).

Scientific American ran a column by David Ginsburg of environmental studies about the school’s scientific diving program.

June 16-18, 2012

The Wall Street Journal featured research by Jesse Graham of psychology and a colleague finding that when people are asked to monitor their driving habits, they drive less. For the study, a group of college students kept an online record of the car trips they avoided making. Those students drove less, and when they received feedback on how much money they saved on gas and how much pollution they prevented, they reduced their driving time even more.

Asian News International featured a study by Sarah Feakins of earth sciences and colleagues, finding that ancient Antarctica was once much warmer and wetter than previously thought. The climate at the time would have been able to support stunted trees along the continent’s edges. Feakins and colleagues studied ancient plant leaf wax to determine that temperatures on the Antarctic coast 15 million years ago to 20 million years ago were 20 degrees warmer than they are today. “The ultimate goal of the study was to better understand what the future of climate change may look like,” Feakins said. “Just as history has a lot to teach us about the future, so does past climate.” The research was covered by another Asian News International story, Daily Mail (U.K.), International Business Times, Cadena SER (Spain), LiveScience, Science Codex, TG Daily and iTechPost.

Friday, June 15, 2012

Truthdig cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the need for about California’s new top-two primary system.

The Washington Post quoted Steven Ross of history, author of "Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics," about a celebrity fundraising effort by President Obama.

KPCC-FM’s "Off-Ramp" cited Amy Parish of anthropology and gender studies on what the genetic link between bonobos and humans could mean for evolutionary theory.

Pasadena Star-News reported that Dallas Willard of philosophy be the keynote speaker at The Heart and Soul Conference: Forming Spiritual and Emotional Maturity.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

NPR’s “All Things Considered” featured a study by Travis Longcore of spatial sciences, finding that North American communications towers are responsible for an estimated 6.8 million bird deaths each year. The Economist highlighted research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, on the reported happiness of urban Chinese citizens between 1990 and 2010. Easterlin found that the population showed no evidence of a marked increase in life satisfaction, despite China’s booming economic prosperity during that period.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 83 percent of California voters approved of Controller John Chiang docking legislators’ pay during budget disputes last year.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife students Mallory Pirogovsky and Abigail Joyce about scientific research diving at USC Dornsife.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

The Wall Street Journal highlighted a study by Travis Longcore of spatial sciences, finding that North American communications towers are responsible for an estimated 6.8 million bird deaths each year. Longcore’s study recommended that the steady red lights used to guide pilots away from towers be changed to flashing lights, which seem to distract birds less. Last month, the Federal Aviation Association determined it would be safe to switch the lights.

United Press International featured research by Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, Paolo Zanardi of physics and Silvano Garnerone, formerly a USC postdoctoral researcher, on how quantum computers can improve Internet search algorithms. The research was also covered by TG Daily, The Register (U.K.), MIR 24 (Russia), Ars Technica and ScienceDaily.

Scientific American ran a column about Karl Huggins, director of the Catalina Hyperbaric Chamber located at the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center. Huggins has made many major contributions to diving, including a set of decompression dive tables and a decompression algorithm used in EDGE, an electronic diving computer. The column was written by USC Dornsife students Kaitlin Mogentale and Nicole Matthews.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the effects of the Los Angeles County Unified School District’s shortened school year.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Los Angeles County Assessor John Noguez taking a paid leave of absence while under investigation.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV interviewed Thomas Ward of anthropology about a spike in gang crimes in Anaheim. O.C. Weekly also quoted Ward.

Ventura County Star quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on how California’s top-two primary system incentivizes politicians to move toward the center. The Record Searchlight also cited Schnur.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s approach to welfare reform. The Bay Citizen quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the revelation that solar panel maker Solyndra shed nearly 1,900 jobs when it closed, more than previously reported.

The Huffington Post highlighted the “Easterlin paradox,” named after Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, which indicates that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Estadao (Brazil) ran a Q&A with Rebecca Lemon of English, who recently gave a lecture on Shakespeare at a Brazilian law school. She spoke about the enduring power of Shakespeare’s work, and how legal scholars can find something to relate to in the Bard’s work. Lemon said that Shakespeare touched everyone in the room, with the discussion ranging from revenge and tyranny to love, faith and religion.

Los Angeles Times quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about Hollywood studios catering to China’s censorship board in order to avoid offending Chinese financial backers.

Scientific American ran a column by student Kaitlin Mogentale about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

June 9-11, 2012

The Jerusalem Post (Israel) highlighted “Looking for Spinoza” by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, on 17th century Jewish philosopher Baruch Spinoza’s anticipation of modern science’s discoveries regarding human emotions. The story compared Damasio’s research on victims with severe head trauma to research by neurologist Simon Baron-Cohen, who studies the scientific causes of evil.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about political campaign spending on social media.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about President Obama’s comment that the private sector economy is “doing fine.”

Toronto Star (Canada) mentioned a lecture by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, titled “Music and the Brain.”

Scientific American ran a column by student Judith Fong about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Friday, June 8, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured an educational site developed with USC grant money and run by Kim Thomas-Barrios, executive director of the USC Neighborhood Academic Initiative, and novelist Jervey Tervalon. The site, Literature for Life, connects L.A. authors and artists with teachers to inspire urban students. Participating authors include Aimee Bender of English and Los Angeles Times food writer Jonathan Gold. The site targets roughly a dozen schools in the USC neighborhood, though its material is available to anyone for free. La Jornada (Mexico) featured Re-mix, a meeting of museum representatives organized and supported in part by the USC Fisher Museum of Art, home of USC’s International Museum Institute. The meeting’s goal is to explore the roles of regional and national museums in the Americas. Selma Holo of art history, director of both the institute and the Fisher Museum, said that the meeting brings large-museum directors together with those at smaller museums, increasing collaboration and communication. She added that participants hope to shake up the system, because in the museum field the power to shape the conversation is held in too few hands.

NPR’s “Talk of the Nation” interviewed David Treuer of English about Native American identity. Indian Country Today highlighted the interview.

Gannett News Service quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s Latino primary candidates.

Fox & Hounds Daily cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that California voters would oppose a high-speed rail plan if given another chance to vote on it.

Scientific American ran a column by student Inaki Pedroarena-Leal about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Politico mentioned that actress and USC Dornsife student America Ferrera is working to encourage young Latinos to register and vote.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s new redistricting procedures and top-two primary system. Both changes will force incumbents to compete more for votes, Schnur wrote. The primary system allows two candidates from the same party to compete in a runoff — but even this is a win for voters, he added. “This is likely to push candidates to the middle because candidates will be trying to attract general election voters from the other party as well as from their own,” Schnur wrote. KPCC-FM highlighted the op-ed.

The Nordic Page (Norway) featured Manuel Castells, University Professor, Wallis Annenberg Chair of Communication Techonology and Society and professor of communication, sociology, planning, and international relations, who received the 2012 Holberg International Memorial Prize. The award, bestowed by a Norwegian foundation, recognizes research in the arts and humanities, social sciences, law and theology. “Manuel Castells is the leading sociologist of the city and new information and media technologies,” wrote the Holberg Prize Academic Committee.

The New York Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s new open primary system. The Wall Street Journal and Reuters also quoted Schnur.

Los Angeles Times quoted Paul Alkon, professor emeritus of English, about the late Ray Bradbury’s strengths as a writer.

Los Angeles Times noted that the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found California voters prefer President Obama to Mitt Romney 56 percent to 37 percent.

Scientific American ran a column by student Dylan Giordano about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about increased political competition in California’s newly drawn districts.

Associated Press quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Proposition 28, involving legislator term limits. The Sacramento Bee and San Jose Mercury News also quoted Schnur.

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll and local political issues.

The Press-Enterprise quoted Andrei Simic of anthropology about how major metropolitan cities like New York and Chicago have long been first stops for European immigrants.

Los Angeles Times mentioned that the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found President Obama leading Mitt Romney among California voters 56 percent to 37 percent. The poll was also covered by National Journal.

Scientific American ran a column by student Roxana Aslan about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that a majority of Californians would vote against a proposed high-speed rail project if they had the chance to vote on it again. Associated Press reported that since the project’s approval, its estimated cost has nearly doubled. The poll was also covered by Politico, The Washington Examiner, The Orange County Register, Talking Points Memo, L.A. Weekly, Sacramento Business Journal and Contra Costa Times.

KQED-FM’s “Mind/Shift” featured research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at the Brain and Creativity Institute, and colleagues, on the benefits students get from daydreaming. The study found that daydreaming allows people to make sense of their experiences; not doing this can keep students from “considering the abstract, longer-term, moral and emotional implications of their and others’ actions,” Immordino-Yang and colleagues wrote.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the California primary election.

NPR’s “All Things Considered” interviewed John Allen, researcher in the Brain and Creativity Institute, about his new book, “The Omnivorous Mind: Our Evolving Relationship with Food.” Allen wrote about crispy foods and why they appeal to people in so many cultures.

June 2-4, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, in which 59 percent of voters said they would vote against the 2008 bond measure funding a high-speed rail project in California. Sixty- nine percent of Californians said they would never or hardly ever use the service. The poll was also covered by Bloomberg News, ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV, KPCC-FM, The Orange County Register and Los Angeles Daily News. The Fresno Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the potentially historic nature of tomorrow’s Californian primary.

California Watch quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about voter support for Proposition 28, which involves legislative term limits.

The Huffington Post highlighted a report by Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity and a colleague on the aftermath of the civil unrest in Los Angeles in 1992.

St. Louis Post-Dispatch highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a new Marilyn Monroe biography written by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

The Sacramento Bee ran highlights from a live chat with Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, and Jon Fleischman of the Flash Report blog about Proposition 28, which would change legislative term limits.

May

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife College/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 80 percent of California voters support doctor-recommended marijuana for severe illness, but only 46 percent support marijuana legalization for general or recreational use. Los Angeles Times reported that the poll found 62 percent of voters support a new tobacco tax initiative. The poll was also covered by The Washington Post in an Associated Press story, Notimex (Mexico), two Los Angeles Times blog posts (second link here), Politico, The Huffington Post and L.A. Weekly.

KPCC-FM highlighted research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that despite China’s economic growth, Chinese citizens don’t report increased happiness. The story notes that Easterlin is credited with pioneering the field of “happiness economics.”

USA Today quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about “bracketing,” a way of diluting a political opponent’s message.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a Fox News video that was critical of President Obama.

Maclean’s (Canada) quoted Gina Nahai of the Master of Professional Writing program about the reality show “Shahs of Sunset.”

McClatchy Newspapers highlighted “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a new biography about Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that California voters still support Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax hike proposal, despite increasing wariness over how the state would use that money. The poll reported that 59 percent of those surveyed would support the hikes, and that 36 percent opposed. When voters heard arguments against the plan — such as a suggestion that the state might waste the funds — support fell to 50 percent, and opposition rose to 42 percent. The poll was also covered by Press Trust of India (India), The Daily Beast and L.A. Weekly.

The Huffington Post ran an op-ed by Ange-Marie Hancock of political science and Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about a recent vote to cut funding for the American Community Survey. They wrote that the survey “helps us fully comprehend one of the unspoken implications of becoming a ‘majority-minority’ nation — everyone will be a minority.” Hancock and Pastor direct the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration.

The Australian (Australia) quoted Daniel Lynch of international relations about China’s stimulus plan.

The Christian Science Monitor quoted Daniel Lynch of international relations about Chinese citizens becoming more familiar with foreigners.

The Sacramento Bee covered a live chat with Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Proposition 28, which would shorten the term limits of California legislators but allow them to serve their years in one house. A second story in The Sacramento Bee highlighted the chat.

Scientific American ran a column by student Edward Fischer about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Scientific American also ran a column by student Santiago Fernandez-Barrera.

May 26-29, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education ran an op-ed by John Allen, researcher in the Brain and Creativity Istitute, excerpted from his new book, “The Omnivorous Mind: Our Evolving Relationship with Food.” Allen wrote about crispy foods and why they appeal to so many cultures. He suggested humans might have evolved to enjoy crispy “fallback” foods like insects and fresh vegetables in the ancient past. NPR’s “Science Friday” interviewed Allen about his new book.

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Ralph Wedgwood of philosophy about the differing meanings of same-sex marriage to voters.

Los Angeles Times reported on USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll results finding that President Obama has a wide lead among California voters in a broad range of demographics. The poll found him leading 56 percent to Mitt Romney’s 37 percent. The poll questioned 1,002 California voters from May 17-21 with a 3.5 percent margin of error in either direction. Obama was said to better handle the economy and jobs better than Romney (50 percent to 37 percent) the deficit (45 percent to 34 percent) and taxes (49 percent to 34 percent). Another Los Angeles Times story cited the poll, finding that Romney was losing the Latino vote to Obama 74 percent to 18 percent. The poll’s findings were also reported by CNN, Politico and RTT News.

Publishers Weekly reviewed a new biography on Marilyn Monroe by Lois Banner of history and gender studies. “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” relies on new interviews with Monroe’s friends and newly available archival material. The Huffington Post ran a column by Banner about why Monroe continues to fascinate.

Los Angeles Times quoted Leo Braudy, University Professor and Leo S. Bing Chair in English and American Literature and professor of English, about the appeal of the new TV miniseries “Hatfields & McCoys.” Chinese Radio International (China) interviewed Stanley Rosen of political science about Dalian Wanda Group’s purchase of AMC Entertainment.

Associated Press cited David Treuer of English about Indian identity.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gavin Newsom’s new political talk show.

Monga Bay covered research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that despite China’s economic growth, Chinese citizens don’t report increased happiness.

MinnPost mentioned that Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC Dana Gioia will read from his new book of poetry, “Pity the Beautiful.”

Scientific American ran a column by students Santiago Fernandez-Barrera and Inaka Pedroarena-Leal about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Chicago Public Media station WBEZ-FM covered research by Richard Easterlin University Professor and professor of economics, finding that despite China’s economic growth, Chinese citizens don’t report increased happiness. The story highlighted the “Easterlin paradox,” the finding that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income.

Los Angeles Times cited James Dolan of earth science about the safety of running a subway line under Beverly Hills High School.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Public Radio International highlighted a project by the USC Program for Environmental and Regional Equity and other institutions to map air pollution in different Los Angeles neighborhoods. The maps were used to determine which neighborhoods would participate in a pilot project called Clean Up Green Up, aligning environmental interests with those of local businesses.

PBS News’ “NewsHour” interviewed Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history and policy, planning and development, about the Golden Gate Bridge.

NBC News interviewed Richard Flory of sociology about the transformation of South Los Angeles community churches into “commuter churches.”

California Watch quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the potential for third-party group Americans Elect to shake up the 2012 election.

American Public Media’s “Marketplace” covered research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that despite China’s economic growth, Chinese citizens don’t report increased happiness.

The Economist cited research by John Strauss of economics about the development of Chinese companies. Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife student Dawnielle Tellez about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Scientific American also ran a column by USC Dornsife student Nicholas Leonard.

Commonweal Magazine ran an op-ed by Ronald Osborn, doctoral student in political science and international relations, about U.S. troops in Iraq.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

La Repubblica (Italy) featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that economic growth in China hasn’t led to greater life satisfaction for the majority of citizens. Easterlin is considered to be the father of happiness economics, the story stated.

Los Angeles Times quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about the Dalian Wanda Group’s acquisition of movie theater chain AMC Entertainment Inc.

PCWorld covered research by Richard Brutchey of chemistry and USC postdoctoral researcher David H. Webber, who found a way to produce stable liquid solar cells that can be printed on clear surfaces.

The Huffington Post published a commencement address by new USC Dornsife alumna Mary Ellen Jebbia.

Scientific American ran two columns (second link here) by USC Dornsife student Nathaniel Kinsey on USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Scientific American also ran a column by USC Dornsife student Kaitlin Mogentale.

May 19-21, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by David Treuer of English about the portrayal of Native Americans in the media. Treuer wrote that the media tends to focus on crime and poverty within the community, but often misses the nuances of life on a reservation.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history and policy, planning and development about the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Elle mentioned “Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox,” a book about Marilyn Monroe written by Lois Banner of history and gender studies.

Friday, May 18, 2012

The Wall Street Journal featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that economic growth in China hasn’t led to greater life satisfaction for the majority of citizens. The study was also covered by La Repubblica (Italy), Magyar Tavirati Iroda (Hungary) and Voice of America.

KCRW-FM’s “Which Way, L.A.?” interviewed Peter Westwick of history about the launch of SpaceX’s Dragon capsule and the implications for Los Angeles of private space exploration.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 MSNBC featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that economic growth in China hasn’t led to greater life satisfaction for the majority of citizens. The study was also covered by Global Times (China) and Vice.

The Canadian Press (Canada) highlighted Patrick James of international relations and his role as director of USC’s Center for International Studies. James has received support from an educational initiative sponsored by the Canadian government, using small grants to host events like a discussion with Canadian political scientist Keith Banting. Postmedia News (Canada) also ran a story.

L.A. Weekly profiled Dennis Hedgecock, Paxson H. Offield Professor in Fisheries Ecology and professor of biological sciences, and his work crossbreeding oysters in order to develop an enhanced food source. Hedgecock believes he can crossbreed oysters that are up to three times bigger than normal, safe to eat and healthy. Fears over aquaculture result in the U.S. importing 86 percent of its seafood.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the effects of California’s Proposition 28, concerning legislator term limits.

ABC Radio’s “The Science Show” (Australia) interviewed Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies about her research on deep sea microbial colonies.

ABC Radio’s “The Science Show” (Australia) interviewed Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences about his research on fasting and chemotherapy recovery.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife student Emily Lu about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

The Wall Street Journal featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that economic growth in China hasn’t led to greater life satisfaction for the majority of citizens. “There is no evidence of an increase in life satisfaction of the magnitude that might have been expected to result from the fourfold improvement in the level of per capita consumption,” Easterlin and colleagues wrote. The story mentioned the “Easterlin paradox,” the finding that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income. KPCC-FM stated that Easterlin has been talked about as a possible candidate for the Nobel Prize. The study was also covered by Time, Agenzia Giornalistica Italia (Italy) and NU (Netherlands).

Indian Country Today cited David Treuer of English regarding Native American identity.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, and colleagues, finding that economic growth in China hasn’t led to greater life satisfaction for the majority of citizens. Easterlin studied self-reported levels of satisfaction between 1990 and 2010, finding that the level of happiness among the poorest Chinese has dropped, despite a booming economy. “The clear lesson from China is how important it is for people’s happiness to have jobs and a fair amount of certainty about those jobs, as well as a social safety net,” Easterlin said. Wired noted that Easterlin is the namesake of the “Easterlin paradox,” the finding that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income. Easterlin’s work was also covered by Financial Times (U.K.), two Agence France-Presse stories (second link here), two Deutsche Presse- Agentur (Germany) stories (second link here), Asian News International, EFE (Spain), Sueddeutsche Zeitung (Germany), Austria Presse Agentur (Austria), Die Presse (Austria), ORF (Austria), Kleine Zeitung (Austria), Kurier (Austria), World Journal, The Korea Times (South Korea), El Dia (Argentina) and The Daily Star (Bangladesh).

South Florida Sun-Sentinel cited David Treuer of English about Native American ancestry.

BBC News (U.K.) cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that two-thirds of California voters favor Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposal to raise taxes to benefit education.

Houston Chronicle mentioned that Thomas Ward of anthropology participated in a panel discussion on the connection between Central America and the Western hemisphere.

Wired mentioned neuroscience research by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife student Alyssa Dykman about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Scientific American also ran a column by USC Dornsife student Miller Zou.

May 12-14, 2012

L.A. Weekly featured research by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at the Brain and Creativity Institute, indicating that students shouldn’t be disciplined for daydreaming. “Diminishing opportunities for young people to look inward and reflect could have negative effects on their well-being, morality and academic success,” Immordino-Yang wrote.

Fox Business’ “Varney & Co.” interviewed Steven Ross of history about a fundraiser that actor George Clooney hosted for President Obama. KPCC-FM’s “Patt Morrison” also interviewed Ross.

CNN interviewed Steven Ross of history about the actress Eva Longoria’s support for President Obama’s reelection campaign.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the term limits that Proposition 28 would place on California legislators.

Bay Area News Group quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s budget cuts and the potential effects they could have on Gov. Jerry Brown.

Scientific American ran a column by USC student Christina Irvin about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Sacramento Bee ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California Proposition 28, which would change term limits for political leaders.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a Washington Post story suggesting that Mitt Romney bullied a student during his private school days. Thursday, May 10, 2012

New Zealand Herald (New Zealand) featured research by Richard Brutchey of chemistry and USC postdoctoral researcher David H. Webber, who found a way to produce stable liquid solar cells that can be printed on clear surfaces.

Los Angeles Times quoted Steven Ross of history about the role celebrities play in shaping politics.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife student Roxi Aslan about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program. Scientific American ran a second column by student Stephen Holle.

Haaretz (Israel) reported that Aimee Bender of English, author of “The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake,” would appear in Jerusalem in conversation with surrealist author Etgar Keret.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

KPCC-FM highlighted research by Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology for her forthcoming book about Los Angeles’ Mexican American middle class. Vallejo sampled respondents with household incomes over $100,000 a year and found 70 percent said they grew up in disadvantaged communities.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the effects of gas prices on voters.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Dornsife student Madison Swayne about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester program and research on decompression sickness.

May 5-7, 2012

Folha de Sao Paolo (Brazil) ran an op-ed by Abraham Lowenthal, professor emeritus of international relations, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney's recent courting of the Republican base in the South. Lowenthal wrote that Romney must now find positions and platforms that will appeal to other regions.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency reported that the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education gave its first Inspiration Award to Arnold Spielberg, father of institute founder . The story stated that the institute has a library of 52,000 genocide survivor testimonies, and is admired for its historical and educational values and technological prowess. The award has been renamed the Arnold Spielberg Inspiration Award.

The Chronicle of Higher Education cited Jacob Soll of history and accounting about his reasons for leaving Rutgers University to come to USC.

The New York Times cited Jacques Hymans of international relations regarding North Korea’s difficulty in developing a successful nuclear program.

U.S. News & World Report cited Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about the importance of Cinco de Mayo among Mexican Americans. Pasadena Star-News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California state term limits.

Los Angeles Times highlighted “The Coat,” a poem by Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC.

KPCC-FM interviewed Cecil “Chip” Murray of religion about the late Rev. Eugene Williams, an advocate for the South Los Angeles poor who worked with the USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture on Passing the Mantle, a program that trained some 200 pastors to become more active in their communities. The story noted that a memorial service for Williams will be held at USC.

Scientific American ran a column by USC Viterbi School student Austin Hay about the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau program, and the lessons he’s learned about water conservation. Scientific American also ran a column on the program by David Ginsburg of environmental studies.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured “The Coat,” a poem by Dana Gioia, Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture. The story noted Gioia is the former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Wired featured Yuri Gorby of biological sciences and his hometown’s experience with hydrological fracturing, or “fracking,” as a means of obtaining natural gas.

Scientific American ran a column by Gerry Smith, dive safety officer at the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies, about the school’s Guam and Palau program. Smith wrote about the safety issues that divers face.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured a study by Sergio Sanudo-Wilhelmy of biological sciences and earth sciences and colleagues, finding that the level of metal contaminants in Southern California’s coastal waters has dropped as much as 400-fold since the 1970s. The research was also covered by a second Los Angeles Times story, United Press International and The Atlantic.

ABC News’ “Good Morning America” featured a study by Travis Longcore of spatial sciences and colleagues, finding that 6.8 million birds are killed each year by collisions with radio towers. Yahoo! News also covered the research.

NPR’s “Tell Me More” interviewed Jane Junn of political science about her research on Asian American voters. In 2008, Junn and colleagues surveyed 5,000 Asian Americans and found that large numbers of them were independent voters. She said that between 1992 and 2008, the proportion of Asian Americans voting Democratic roughly doubled from 31 percent to 62 percent. Vietnamese Americans are more likely to vote Republican, but as a whole, “Asian-American voters today are much more Democratic,” Junn said.

The Sacramento Bee mentioned that Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, will present findings from a USC Rossier School/PACE survey at a forum hosted by Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE). Foreign Affairs ran an op-ed by Jacques Hymans of international relations about North Korea’s failed missile launch last month. Hymans wrote that nuclear proliferation has slowed down immensely in the recent past, especially in authoritarian regimes. The Faster Times cited Hymans’ op-ed.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology about Cinco de Mayo’s meaning for Mexican Americans.

The Orange County Register quoted David Caron of biological sciences about an acid found in recent water samples.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that USC has hired Steve Kay, dean of the UC San Diego School of Biological Sciences, to be dean of USC Dornsife. USC Provost Elizabeth Garrett wrote that while at UC San Diego, Kay led a large, dynamic academic division including nearly 6,000 undergraduate biology majors, several hundred graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and faculty spanning four major departments. “As an academic leader, Dr. Kay has demonstrated a commitment to faculty excellence, recruiting exceptional new faculty members to the division including department chairs and center directors, members of the National Academy of Scientists, and many other distinguished and productive researchers,” Garrett wrote. Kay oversaw the creation of four significant new research centers at UC San Diego. The San Diego Union-Tribune mentioned the hiring in a second story.

The Vancouver Sun (Canada) highlighted a new book by Jacques Hymans of international relations about the ability of authoritarian states like Iran to develop nuclear weapons. Hymans writes that in regimes like Iran’s, the ability to develop nuclear weapons is hampered by the climate of coercion by which authority is maintained.

L.A. Observed ran a column on USC’s From the Ashes conference, which reexamined the 1992 civil unrest in Los Angeles. More than 400 people attended the event, organized by Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity and his colleagues in the USC Program for Environmental and Regional Equity, which he directs.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

La Stampa (Italy) featured a study by Travis Longcore of spatial sciences and colleagues finding that 6.8 million birds are killed each year by collisions with radio towers. The research was also covered by Indo- Asian News Service, Fars News Agency (Iran), El Mercurio (Chile), Canadian Online Explorer (Canada), Magyar Tavirati Iroda (Hungary), Veja (Brazil), GlobalPost and TG Daily.

L.A. Observed featured a video and blog post by Clifford Johnson of physics and astronomy about the new Expo Line. Johnson wrote that the light-rail line is “part of a major transformation for the city. … Stepping off the train today at the Expo Park/USC stop was just magical.”

The Rafu Shimpo noted that exhibitors at the 2012 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books included Kaya Press, a publisher now housed in USC Dornsife that specializes in stories from the Asian diaspora.

GalleyCat profiled David St. John of English, a National Book Award finalist who recently released a new poetry collection titled “The Auroras.” Scientific American ran a column by Robert English of international relations and Jim Haw of environmental studies about USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau program.

The Huffington Post ran a column by Nake Kamrany of economics and student Jessica Greenhalgh of economics and biological sciences about challenges in the U.S. health care industry.

April

April 21-23, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC, at which USC Provost Elizabeth Garrett and Judge Widney Professor of Poetry and Public Culture at USC Dana Gioia helped unveil a new series of stamps depicting 20th century American poets. Los Angeles Times covered panels featuring Deborah Harkness of history and Dinah Lenney of the Master of Professional Writing Program. Los Angeles Times also ran an excerpt of remarks David Ulin of the Master of Professional Writing Program gave at the Los Angeles Times Book Prize ceremony, and mentioned articles that Leo Braudy of English, American literature and history, and Janet Fitch of the Master of Professional Writing Program wrote in conjunction with the event. C-SPAN’s “Book TV” aired portions of the festival and interviewed Steven Ross of history. The Rafu Shimpo highlighted the Kaya Press booth, which featured a literary lounge.

The Wall Street Journal, in an Associated Press story, quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about the immigration issue and its impact on national elections.

Reuters quoted Cecil “Chip” Murray of religion about police-community relations two decades after the Los Angeles riots.

Scientific American ran a blog by USC student Inaki Pedroarena-Leal about his involvement in the USC Dornsife’s Guam and Palau Maymester Program.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Leo Braudy of English, American literature and history on the city’s history. The story noted that Braudy is author of “The Hollywood Sign: Fantasy and Reality of an American Icon.”

ABC News (Australia) featured Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies and her mid-Atlantic research expeditions, in which she studies deep sea microbial life.

Scientific American ran an article by Jim Haw and David Ginsburg of environmental studies about the school’s Guam and Palau Program. Enrolled students participate in two linked courses on scientific diving and Micronesian ecosystem management, and visit the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island to practice diving and attend lectures. Next month the students will leave for Guam and Palau; they will blog about their work with guidance from writing professor Jeb Middlebrook of the Writing Program.

The Huffington Post ran a column written by Nake Kamrany of economics and USC Dornsife economics students Jessica Stauffer and Faiyaz Azim, on Bangladesh’s income potential. Jewish Journal quoted Samuel Chu, research associate in USC’s Center for Religion and Civic Culture, as part of a panel discussion on the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Jewish Journal ran a second item on the panel.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

The Atlantic featured Andrew Curtis of American studies and ethnicity who uses car-mounted video cameras to document neighborhoods affected by natural disasters in order to understand how recovery takes place and the factors that may hold it back. Curtis has documented several New Orleans neighborhoods over the six years since Hurricane Katrina. More recently, he began studying storm- ravaged areas of Joplin, Missouri, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Los Angeles Daily News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s support for extending Measure R, which involves a tax to support public transit.

The Times of Israel (Israel) highlighted the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education’s IWitness program, an online application that lets high school students and teachers search through the institute’s Holocaust survivor testimonies.

Los Angeles Times noted that the USC Dornsife's Department of Anthropology has offered a class titled “Social Issues in Human Sexuality and Reproduction.”

Scientific American ran an article by Jim Haw of environmental studies and USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies Safety Specialist Gerry Smith, on USC’s scientific diving program.

Tallahassee Democrat mentioned the Holocaust survivor testimonies held by the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Scientific American ran a blog post by USC alumna Caitlin Contag, about her experiences doing scientific research diving with the USC Dornsife’s Problems Without Passports program. Contag wrote that she currently volunteers at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where the Catalina exhibit resembles a site near the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina.

Agence France-Presse quoted Daniel Lynch of international relations about political elites in China.

CNN covered the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that e-reader owners still like paper books. CBS News Colorado Springs, Colo., affiliate KKTV-TV also covered the poll.

April 14-16, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that e-reader owners still like paper books. Only 10 percent of e-reader owners said they had abandoned traditional books. The poll also found that young adults aged 18 to 29 read roughly as much as older adults, and that 20 percent of the respondents read for more than 10 hours a week.

The Sacramento Bee featured an experimental online poll by USC Dornsife finding that California voters strongly support Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax increase initiative. Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, said that the online survey was used to test methodology and ask more in-depth questions than those used in the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll. The Standard (China) quoted Daniel Lynch of international relations about political elites in China.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about former Gov. reinventing himself.

The Washington Post cited the “Easterlin Paradox,” based on a study by Richard Easterlin of economics finding that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income.

Los Angeles Times highlighted two previous Times stories about T.C. Boyle and David Treuer of English. Both authors will be participating in the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC.

Indian Country Today ran an excerpt from “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life,” by David Treuer of English.

Friday, April 13, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured an experimental online poll by the USC Dornsife College, finding that voters reported small business owners and teachers are the most likely to influence voters’ choices this election season. Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, said the findings were similar to those of the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, a traditional phone poll. “There’s no doubt to me that the future of public opinion research is going to be conducted over the Internet,” Schnur said.

Los Angeles Times featured T.C. Boyle of English, whose manuscripts, research and notes were recently archived at the University of Austin’s Ransom Center. Boyle, the author of “The Tortilla Curtain,” “East is East” and “The Road to Wellville,” formerly kept his archival material in his basement.

Los Angeles Times featured David Treuer of English and his new book, “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life.” The book delves into Native American identity and how life on a reservation can shape it.

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s wife, Ann Romney.

Los Angeles Times reported that Brighde Mullins, director of USC’s Master of Professional Writing Program, has been named a Guggenheim Foundation 2012 fellow in drama.

Los Angeles Times reported that David Treuer of English would be interviewed on Public Radio International’s “The Tavis Smiley Show” about his book, “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life.” Publishers Weekly also ran a story.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

The New York Times ran a column by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s need to court female voters. “If Romney is going to be competitive in the fight for increased support from married women, it will be because he has found a way to frame his core economic message in a way that connects with these voters,” Schnur wrote.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012 KPCC-FM highlighted research by Richard Easterlin of economics finding that happiness doesn’t continually increase along with a country’s average income. The story reported that this concept, known as the Easterlin paradox, is supported by a new report from the Earth Institute at .

Los Angeles Times quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about an initiative by Disney to help develop China’s animation industry.

Times-Herald quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how Rick Santorum dropping out of the presidential race could affect Republicans running in other California races this year.

Pasadena Star-News mentioned the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 39 percent of California voters believe the state’s economy has bottomed out.

The Denver Post cited a keynote address that Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity gave at a Denver conference about urban development.

O.C. Weekly reported that Jeb Middlebrook of sociology will give the opening speech at Cal State Fullerton’s Social Justice Summit.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about President Obama’s handling of gasoline prices and perception among voters. Schnur wrote that a recent USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll found California voters are dissatisfied with President Obama’s handling of the cost of gasoline.

PC Magazine featured work by Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, and postdoctoral researcher Zhihui Wang of chemistry on a quantum computer built using subatomic flaws in a diamond. It uses microwave pulses to reduce “decoherence,” noise that prevents the computer from functioning properly. The research was also covered by Los Angeles Daily News, International Business Times, ZDNet and Agenzia Giornalistica Italia (Italy).

April 7-9, 2012

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 68 percent of California voters favored the cigarette tax increase measure Proposition 29, while 29 percent opposed it. The Modesto Bee cited the poll, noting that 39 percent of California voters believe the state’s economy is beginning to improve, while 33 percent think it has yet to hit bottom.

Technorati featured work by Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, and Zhihui Wang of chemistry, on a quantum computer built using subatomic flaws in a diamond. It uses microwave pulses to reduce “decoherence,” noise that prevents the computer from functioning properly.

The Sacramento Bee quoted David Ginsburg of environmental studies about public health hazards at the Salton Sea.

The Wall Street Journal mentioned an upcoming lecture on politics and brain structure, hosted by USC Dornsife’s Levan Institute for Humanities and Ethics and held at USC’s Ground Zero Performance Cafe. Ventura County Star reported that Michael Messner of sociology and gender studies will deliver a keynote address on male activism and gender-based violence.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Wired featured work by Daniel Lidar of electrical engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, and postdoctoral researcher Zhihui Wang of chemistry, on a quantum computer built using subatomic flaws in a diamond. The research was also featured by RedOrbit and NTVMSNBC (Turkey).

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education’s work collecting testimony from survivors of the Armenian genocide.

The Economist cited Rez Life, a memoir by David Treuer of English, about Native American life.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Asian News International featured work by Daniel Lidar of engineering systems, chemistry, and physics and astronomy, and Zhihui Wang of chemistry, on a quantum computer encased in diamond in order to reduce "decoherence," noise that prevents the computer from functioning properly. The research was also featured by Press TV (Iran), Science Codex and TG Daily.

NPR's "All Things Considered" interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the strategic advantages to President Obama in not having to run in a primary during this election.

LiveScience cited research by Richard Easterlin of economics finding that happiness doesn't continually increase along with a country's average income.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Los Angeles Times highlighted the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that 82 percent of California voters were very or somewhat concerned about Internet and smart phone companies collecting their information. It also found that voters didn’t trust well known companies like Apple, Google and Facebook.

LAist featured the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC, noting that the event is expected to draw more than 150,000 visitors. The festival will feature authors including T.C. Boyle and Carol Muske-Dukes of English, as well as public figures like Michael Ian Black, John Cusack and Rodney King.

The Huffington Post ran a column by Sherman Jackson of religion and American studies and ethnicity about the Trayvon Martin shooting case and the complexity of racial identification. Jackson wrote about the Florida "Stand Your Ground" law, which empowers citizens to use deadly force if they fear that they're under physical threat.

Los Angeles Times quoted Sarah Pratt of Slavic languages and literatures about a Russian ban on loans of art to American museums.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney's challenge in appealing to women voters and Latinos. Minnesota Public Radio mentioned a lecture by David Treuer of English at the Hennepin County Library.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that the majority of Californians worry about data collected on the Internet and by smart phone companies. Poll respondents were asked to rate how much they trusted six tech companies with their personal information, using a scale of zero to 10. No company scored above five. A quarter of respondents worried that data was being collected without their knowledge. Los Angeles Times reported that 65 percent of respondents think tech businesses are more economically important to California than entertainment businesses. The poll was also covered by a third Los Angeles Times story, CNN, MSNBC, San Francisco Chronicle and Asian News International.

The National (United Arab Emirates) quoted Steven Ross of history about celebrity endorsements in presidential primaries.

KQED-FM’s “Climate Watch” interviewed Lisa Collins of environmental studies about the potential for increased storm activity on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

March 31 to April 2, 2012

Los Angeles Daily News featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education and its efforts to collect testimony from survivors of the Armenian Genocide. The project is a collaboration between the Shoah Foundation Institute and the USC Institute of Armenian Studies Leadership Council. More than 400 filmed testimonies have been included in a collection that will be made available to universities around the world.

The New York Times quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about the Mexican government’s efforts to control organized crime.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press article, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the political constraints presidents work in during an election year.

San Jose Mercury News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s need to win primaries leading up to California.

March

March 31 to April 2, 2012

Los Angeles Daily News featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education and its efforts to collect testimony from survivors of the Armenian Genocide. The project is a collaboration between the Shoah Foundation Institute and the USC Institute of Armenian Studies Leadership Council. More than 400 filmed testimonies have been included in a collection that will be made available to universities around the world.

The New York Times quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about the Mexican government’s efforts to control organized crime. The Washington Post, in an Associated Press article, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the political constraints presidents work in during an election year.

San Jose Mercury News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s need to win primaries leading up to California.

Friday, March 30, 2012

The Washington Post quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how an overturn of the federal health care law could affect President Obama’s and Mitt Romney’s campaigns.

The Telegraph (U.K.) cited Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about the Trayvon Martin shooting case.

The Korea Times (South Korea) mentioned The Korea Project: Planning for the Long Term, a research initiative to study issues surrounding Korean unification undertaken by David Kang of international relations and business, and director of the USC Korean Studies Institute.

The Korea Times (South Korea) mentioned USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll results regarding approval of Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax initiative.

PopMatters reviewed “Rez Life” by David Treuer of English, a memoir about his life growing up on a reservation as an Ojibwe Indian.

The Post-Standard mentioned a lecture by T.C. Boyle of English.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education reported that Manuel Castells of sociology, international relations, communication and planning has won the 2012 Holberg International Memorial Prize. The award, bestowed by a Norwegian foundation, recognizes research in the arts and humanities, social sciences, law and theology. The prize committee cited Castells as “the leading sociologist of the city and new information and media technologies.”

The New York Times cited Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, regarding the nature of emotions.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity about possible racial stereotyping in the Trayvon Martin shooting case. Pastor was also quoted by Fox News and International Business Times.

Bloomberg News quoted Kevin Starr of history about the sale of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that only 32 percent of California voters favor attorney Molly Munger’s tax initiative.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Los Angeles Times covered the USC Dornsife/LA Times poll finding that a narrow majority of California voters support a ballot initiative to reform term limits. About 51 percent of voters favor Proposition 28, which would shorten the term limits for legislators but allow them to spend their entire tenure in one legislative house. The Orange County Register ran an editorial on the poll finding that a majority of California voters would be okay with Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative. Sixty-four percent of respondents approved of it. The poll was also covered by Associated Press (more stories here and here), UPI, Sacramento Bee, The Fresno Bee, LA Weekly and Talking Points Memo.

The Wall Street Journal cited Gina Nahai of the Master of Professional Writing program about the new TV show “Shahs of Sunset,” highlighting a column she wrote about the show.

The Washington Post, in a Bloomberg Businessweek article, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about comments by President Obama made to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and captured on an open microphone.

PBS News Wilmington, Del. affiliate WHYY-TV interviewed Jacob Soll of history about Encyclopedia Britannica discontinuing its print publication.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Los Angeles Times featured the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll, which found that nearly two-thirds of California voters support Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed tax initiative. Sixty-four percent said they favored the measure, which would include a tax hike on millionaires as well as an increased sales tax. “It appears the governor has pulled off something of a political coup,” Dan Schnur, director of the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll and director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics at USC, told KPCC-FM. Talking Points Memo reported that the poll found 57 percent of California voters would prefer President Obama, while only 36 percent would vote for Mitt Romney. The poll was also covered by Capital Public Radio and The Daily Beast.

Science News featured research by Anna Krylov of chemistry and colleagues, finding that protons don’t require hydrogen bonds to move across molecules. “For the proton, the hydrogen bond is like riding on a track that’s going between two molecules,” Krylov said. The new research found that molecules can rearrange themselves so the protons can still move.

The Korea Times (South Korea) ran a column by Kim Chan-souk, visiting fellow at the East Asian Studies Center, about South Korea as an emerging leader for peace. He noted that the country is hosting the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit, at which leaders from 53 countries and four international organizations will meet.

The New York Times quoted Richard Meyer of art history and fine arts about the artwork of Anita Steckel, and mentioned an essay about Steckel written by Meyer.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the national debate over federal health care and the role it could play in Californian politics.

The Philadelphia Inquirer cited a USC alumna who studied creative writing under Aimee Bender and T.C. Boyle of English.

March 24-26, 2012

The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding Mitt Romney had a 19 percentage-point lead over Rick Santorum. Los Angeles Times featured the poll, noting that 42 percent of Californian Republicans favored Romney — an uptick of 15 points since the November 2011 poll. The poll also found that nearly six in 10 voters approved of President Obama’s job performance, an increase of seven points since November. The poll found 62 percent had a favorable impression of Obama; 73 percent of Latinos had a favorable impression of him. Nearly two-thirds of voters disapproved of Obama’s handling of gas prices. “Gasoline prices would probably have to hit $20 a gallon to put Obama in serious trouble here in California,” said Dan Schnur, director of the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll and director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics at USC. Los Angeles Times reported that 64 percent of poll respondents support Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax-hike initiative, which would raise funds through the sales tax and tax on upper-range incomes to benefit schools and balance the state budget. “These poll results illustrate that Brown was very smart to put together this initiative the way he did,” Schnur said. Los Angeles Times noted that California voters don’t blame public employees for the state’s pension problems and aren’t in a hurry to make cuts to the system. Another Los Angeles Times story reported that a narrow majority of California voters support an initiative to alter term limits.

PBS News’ “NewsHour” featured Daniel , a USC Dornsife alumnus with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and dyslexia, who graduated with help from USC support groups and Karen Hennigan of psychology. Hennigan helped Paris on his senior year thesis, and encouraged him to join the honors program. Paris made the USC Wall of Scholars and was awarded a $10,000 graduate scholarship.

Scientific American featured the USC Science Film Competition and one of the entries, “Yaddda Yadda Yada.” The competition teams science students with film students to create videos illustrating different scientific concepts.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a recent gaffe by Mitt Romney adviser Eric Fehrnstrom.

Friday, March 23, 2012

The New York Times highlighted research by Andrew Curtis of American studies and ethnicity, who leads a team of students and local community members who have documented the substantial changes in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward after Hurricane Katrina. The interactive piece, which features Curtis’ videos documenting the changes in the area, was part of a package marking the hurricane’s fifth anniversary.

Jewish Journal featured a Q&A with USC President C. L. Max Nikias about a university delegation’s recent trip to Israel and USC’s connections to Israeli universities and Jewish students. Nikias noted USC’s close collaboration with Hebrew Union College, which led to the formation of USC’s Casden Institute for the Study of the Jewish Role in American Life.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

The Huffington Post ran a column by Nicholas Warner of physics, astronomy and mathematics about USC students volunteering for the National Park Service in Death Valley during spring break. The students performed several days of wilderness restoration in the Eureka Dunes, one of the most remote parts of the park.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012 The Philadelphia Inquirer highlighted research by Nina Eliasoph of sociology finding that community groups aren’t necessarily a gateway to political activism. Eliasoph’s book, “Avoiding Politics: How Americans Produce Apathy in Everyday Life,” found that members of citizen groups keep many of their political opinions to themselves.

The Huffington Post quoted Brie Loskota, managing director of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture, about the biblical story of Esther.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Scientific American featured the USC Science Film Competition, created by Clifford Johnson of physics and astronomy. Johnson launched the competition to promote science literacy. Each student-made film focuses on a single scientific concept, and requires science students to work with illustrators and cinema students. The prizes are funded by the Anton Burg Foundation.

Houston Chronicle quoted Karen Sternheimer of sociology about bumper stickers as a form of self- identification.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Newt Gingrich using the Republican primaries to shape his legacy.

March 17-19, 2012

Los Angeles Sentinel featured the $30 million gift by USC Trustee and alumna Verna Dauterive to name the new Drs. Verna and Peter Dauterive Social Science Building, which is due to break ground in the fall.

History interviewed David Hutchins of biological sciences about red tides.

Variety quoted Steven Ross of history about comedian Jeff Foxworthy stumping for Republican candidate Mitt Romney.

Jakarta Globe (Indonesia) cited Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, regarding the nature of consciousness.

Friday, March 16, 2012

The Huffington Post ran a column by Nicholas Warner of physics, astronomy and mathematics about Sen. Rick Santorum’s views on university professors. Warner satirically proposed that science professors across the nation follow the lead of the Spanish Inquisition, pursuing a Scientific Inquisition that would make scientists stop questioning evolution and global warming.

Philippine Daily Inquirer (Philippines) featured research by Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience indicating that the left brain may play a role in creativity rather than just being the seat of rational thought, as was traditionally assumed. Researchers scanned the brains of architecture students while they performed creative tasks and found that both sides of the brain lit up.

CBS News interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the political battle over contraception.

Agence France-Presse quoted Gina Nahai of the Master of Professional Writing program about the new reality TV show “Shahs of Sunset.” Contra Costa Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown continuing to pursue signature-gathering for a tax initiative.

NPR highlighted “Self Comes to Mind: Constructing the Conscious Brain” by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute.

The Press-Enterprise mentioned that Daniel Walker, research associate at the Center for Religion and Civic Culture, will be the keynote speaker at an education summit.

Sentinel Source mentioned research by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, finding that emotions play a central role in social cognition and decision-making.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Los Angeles Times quoted Richard Flory of sociology about the Crystal Cathedral and founder Robert Schuler.

California News Service quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about California’s Congress.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

U.S. News & World Report featured several USC schools and programs in its 2013 edition of “Best Graduate Schools.” USC Dornsife ranked No. 18 in Clinical Psychology.

Science News quoted Emily Liman of biological sciences about genetic glitches that prevent some carnivores from tasting sweetness.

Grand Forks Herald highlighted a lecture by David Treuer of English about his new book, “Rez Life.”

The Trentonian mentioned a Holocaust education curriculum created in part by the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education.

O.C. Weekly highlighted Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology, named one of being one of OC Metro’s “20 Women To Watch” for her research on Mexican immigrant integration.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Shanghai Daily (China) quoted Yong Gang Li of earth sciences about the 2011 tsunami that devastated Japan.

March 10-12, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education reported that the archives of author T.C. Boyle of English have been acquired by The University of Texas at Austin’s Harry Ransom Center. The collection includes notes, research materials and proofs for nearly every one of his published books, as well as correspondence with , Joyce Carol Oates and Tobias Wolff.

Los Angeles Times highlighted a colloquium organized by Antonio Damasio, director of USC's Brain and Creativity Institute, on whether the lack of sight makes mezzo soprano Laurie Rubin different from other singers. The colloquium also included James Weiland of the Keck School of USC. Friday, March 9, 2012

The Huffington Post reported that the archives of author T.C. Boyle of English have been acquired by The University of Texas at Austin’s Harry Ransom Center. The collection includes manuscripts, correspondence, professional files and teaching materials. Boyle has written 22 books of fiction, including “The Tortilla Curtain” and “World’s End,” and has received the PEN/Faulkner Prize and PEN/Malamud Prize.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the unemployment rate’s effect on President Obama’s reelection campaign.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

KPCC-FM featured research by Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience indicating that the left-brain may play a role in creativity rather than just being the seat of rational thought, as was traditionally assumed. Researchers scanned the brains of architecture students while they performed creative tasks and found that both sides of the brain lit up.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about complaints from City Council President Herb Wesson’s Koreatown constituency.

Los Angeles Times quoted Kevin Starr of history about the proposed Californian high-speed rail project.

ABC News’ “Nightline” quoted David Schwartz of psychology and education about why fights happen at birthday parties. The Daily Mail (U.K.) also cited Schwartz.

Minnesota Public Radio interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about what makes an effective campaign slogan.

Hispanic Business quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Rick Santorum’s chances of continuing in the Republican primary.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

The Huffington Post featured research by Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience indicating that the left-brain may play a role in creativity rather than just being the seat of rational thought, as was traditionally assumed. A series of fMRI scans of architecture students found that the two hemispheres complement each other at different times.

The Christian Science Monitor ran a review of “Rez Life” by David Treuer of English. The book takes a detailed look at life on the Indian reservation where Treuer grew up. Treuer sets out to correct the inaccurate perceptions of what it’s like, writing that few “think of the story of rez life as a story of beauty.”

The A.V. Club reviewed a new book by Robin D.G. Kelley of American studies and ethnicity called “Africa Speaks, America Answers: Modern Jazz in Revolutionary Times.” The book examines the intersection of American jazz and traditional African music, focusing on two African musicians and two Americans.

Victoria Advocate featured an upcoming reading by Percival Everett of English. Everett said the topics of his books vary from Greek mythology to racial issues and westerns. The Daily Beast quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Rush Limbaugh’s recent tirade against a Georgetown University student.

The Dallas Morning News cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney needing to focus more on the economy.

Phoenix News (China) interviewed Stanley Rosen of political science about the Zhang Yimou film “Flowers of War.”

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

New York Daily News ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney's public image.

RedOrbit featured research by Lisa Aziz-Zadeh of neuroscience indicating that the left brain may play a role in creativity rather than just being the source of logic and math, as was traditionally thought. Science Codex also featured the research.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney not speaking out more forcefully against Rush Limbaugh’s recent controversial comments.

The Boston Globe quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on what an Ohio primary win would mean for Mitt Romney or Rick Santorum.

National Journal quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidates owning the flaws in their personalities.

McClatchy Newspapers quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the changing public perception of gay marriage.

The Desert Sun quoted Jeb Middlebrook of sociology about people who dress up as superheroes and fight crime.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about State Treasurer Bill Lockyer’s opponents attacking him for scandals in his family.

San Francisco Chronicle highlighted a lecture and book signing by T.C. Boyle, Distinguished Professor of English and author of “When the Killing’s Done: A Novel.”

The Orange County Register highlighted an upcoming lecture by M.G. Lord of the Master of Professional Writing Program about her new book “The Accidental Feminist.”

North County Times highlighted an upcoming lecture by Dallas Willard of philosophy on “Logic, Faith and the Objectivity of Knowledge.”

LA Weekly quoted Maria-Elena Martinez of history and American studies and ethnicity about how the term “Mexican” is viewed, and how nationality and race are often conflated.

March 3-5, 2012

The Washington Post quoted Sharon Hays of sociology and gender studies about parenting expectations in America. The Wall Street Journal covered the New Mexico home of Jonathan Kellerman of psychology, noting that he is a celebrated author of crime novels.

Los Angeles Times mentioned that the USC Fisher Museum of Art, under the directorship of Selma Holo of art history, has highlighted Latin American work.

The Orange County Register reported that Edwin Perkins, professor emeritus of history, will participate in a dialogue about taxes hosted by Concerned Citizens.

Wheeling News-Register mentioned that Yuri Gorby of biological sciences participated in a meeting about the potential dangers of fracking.

Friday, March 2, 2012

The Wall Street Journal featured research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective. The study focused on a group of mice with cancer, finding that those who underwent fasting before chemotherapy had tumors that were less than half the size of those in controls.

OC Metro featured Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology in their list of 20 Women to Watch, noting that the Orange County resident has a new book coming out called “Barrios to Burbs: The Making of the Mexican-American Middle Class.”

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Obama administration’s decision to put off a decision on regulations requiring rearview cameras for cars and light trucks.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Fox News Los Angeles affiliate KTTV-TV interviewed Christian Grose of the USC Dornsife College about the Michigan Republican primary.

February

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Indian Express (India) featured a lecture that G.K. Surya Prakash, George A. and Judith A. Olah Nobel Laureate Chair in Hydrocarbon Chemistry and professor of chemistry, delivered in Bangalore for National Science Day.

Twin Cities Daily Planet highlighted a lecture by David Treuer of English about his new book “Rez Life.”

The New York Times cited Stanley Rosen of political science regarding Communist Chinese figure Lei Feng.

The Salt Lake Tribune highlighted a play written by Brighde Mullins of the Master of Professional Writing Program. CBS News Wheeling, W.Va., affiliate WTRF-TV mentioned that Yuri Gorby of biological sciences attended a discussion on the potential dangers of fracking.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s difficulty in talking about his wealth. Schnur wrote that though President Obama faced many of the same pitfalls during the 2008 campaign, his stance on the Iraq war took precedence over domestic issues that year. Schnur added that Romney needs to publicly admit to his shortcomings and steer the conversation back to his policy priorities.

The Dallas Morning News reviewed “Rez Life,” a new memoir by David Treuer of English. The story stated that Treuer covers his family history, American history and a kind of cultural exploration with the book. One of the unique characteristics Treuer brings to the work is his knowledge of different tribes and the many differences between them, the review noted.

KCET-TV highlighted research by Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity and geography on distribution of air pollution around Los Angeles. Pastor and other researchers teamed with community organizers to identify sources of pollution in Boyle Heights and other low-income neighborhoods. They found that government data on pollution sources had identified fewer sources of pollution than their own data has.

Wheeling News-Register quoted Yuri Gorby of biological sciences about the potential dangers of fracking.

The Spectrum quoted Antoine Bechara of psychology about how learning works in the human brain.

Truthout cited Manuel Castells, University Professor, Wallis Annenberg Chair of Communication Techonology and Society and professor of communication, sociology, planning, and international relations, about people behaving in a “networked” way.

Frankfurter Allgemeine (Germany) covered research by Valter Longo of gerontology and biological sciences finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective.

February 25-27, 2012

The Washington Post ran an op-ed by Steven Ross of history about Hollywood’s right-leaning history. Though most people think of the entertainment industry as a bastion of liberalism, it was more conservative for much of its existence, Ross wrote.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the chances of the Republican presidential race lasting until California’s primary.

Toronto Star (Canada) mentioned research by Antonio Damasio, director of the Brain and Creativity Institute, on the slowness of neural processes.

Bloomberg Businessweek mentioned that Jeb Barnes of political science participates in the Faculty Project, a collection of free online courses that allows students to interact with professors on discussion boards. San Francisco Chronicle mentioned a history class by Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, and policy, planning and development.

Science News cited theories by Antonio Damasio, director of the Brain and Creativity Institute, about the workings of the brain.

Friday, February 24, 2012

The Huffington Post ran an op-ed by Nicholas Warner of physics, astronomy and mathematics about author Deepak Chopra’s recent statement that “no one knows enough to be an atheist.”

North County Times featured a high school class that studied the Holocaust using footage from IWitness, a database of survivor testimony created by the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education. Students created mini-documentaries using the footage, tying the experience of survivors to modern problems such as religious persecution and genocide.

ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV interviewed Jeffrey Nugent of economics and business about gas prices potentially reaching $5 a gallon.

Jewish Journal ran a column by Bruce Phillips of Jewish studies about how recent redistricting will affect Jewish populations in Los Angeles.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the difficulty of convincing voters to raise taxes on themselves.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

The New York Times highlighted a study by USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi researchers, who have discovered a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They combine fumed silica — the same thickening agent that is used in milkshakes — with a polymer to form a material that catches carbon dioxide in the air, allowing it to be recycled.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how criticism by establishment politicians could help Rick Santorum’s outsider image.

The Huffington Post cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s position as Republican front-runner.

The Examiner quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Rick Santorum’s appeal among social conservatives.

The Bemidji Pioneer covered a lecture by David Treuer of English about his new book “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life.”

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

NPR’s “Talk of the Nation” interviewed David Treuer of English about his new book, “Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life.” The book looks at the history of Native American reservations throughout the United States. Treuer’s book was also featured by Minnesota Public Radio, Star-Tribune, Appeal-Democrat, The Spectrum, Baltimore City Paper, The Bemidji Pioneer and Brainerd Dispatch. KCET-TV featured “The Accidental Feminist” by M.G. Lord of the Master of Professional Writing Program, a new book about the ways in which actress Elizabeth Taylor served as an early feminist icon.

USA Today quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about expectations surrounding an upcoming Republican debate.

The Boston Globe quoted Paul Lichterman of sociology and religion about Mitt Romney’s charitable contributions.

Big Think cited “Descartes’ Error” by Antonio Damasio, director of the Brain and Creativity Institute. about a patient whose cognitive brain couldn’t converse with his emotional brain.

February 18-21, 2012

Sudan Vision (Sudan) cited Manuel Castells, University Professor, Wallis Annenberg Chair of Communication Techonology and Society and professor of communication, sociology, planning and international relations, about an increasing interest in the study of networks.

MinnPost mentioned a lecture by David Treuer of English about his new book “Rez Life.”

Friday, February 17, 2012

Science News highlighted research by Kaspar Meyer of psychology on how conscious experiences are formed in the brain. Meyer found that while volunteers watched a video of someone handling a ball of yarn, their brains recreated the sensation of touch. The same was true of subjects watching silent movies — their brains would react as if they were hearing sounds matching the onscreen action.

MSN featured research by Valter Longo of biological sciences and gerontology finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective.

The Wall Street Journal quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about the relationship between Hollywood, the U.S. and China.

Yazhou Zhoukan (China) quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping’s visit to the U.S.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s standing as front-runner in the Republican presidential field.

NPR Seattle affiliate KUOW-FM interviewed Judith Halberstam of English about her book “The Queer Art of Failure.”

The Gazette (Canada) cited a study by Richard Easterlin, University Professsor and professor of economics, about China’s economic growth not leading to higher life satisfaction for its citizens.

Abilene Reporter-News reported that Dallas Willard of philosophy will speak at Abilene Christian University’s Summit gathering.

LAist highlighted a literary discussion featuring Percival Everett, Distinguished Professor of English, and Brighde Mullins, director of the Master of Professional Writing Program. Thursday, February 16, 2012

The Washington Post highlighted a teaching demonstration by Nicholas Warner of physics, atronomy and mathematics. Warner is featured in a video teaching Newton’s Third Law in a variety of creative ways — including with a makeshift "jet engine" made from a fire extinguisher and a skateboard.

Slate featured an interview with David Treuer of English about his new book, "Rez Life." The book takes a look at Treuer’s experience growing up as an Ojibwe Indian on the Leech Lake Reservation in northern Minnesota.

The Christian Science Monitor quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the selection of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to chair the Democratic National Convention.

Los Angeles Times mentioned that L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa recently lectured in a USC Dornsife class.

Los Angeles Times cited research on the biology of emotions by Hanna Costa Damasio and Antonio Damasio of the Brain and Creativity Institute.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Los Angeles Times cited "The Frenzy of Renown: Fame and Its History" by Leo Braudy, University Professor and Leo S. Bing Chair in English and American Literature and professor of English and history, about what drives people to crave fame.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

San Francisco Chronicle reviewed "Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life" by David Treuer of English. The review stated that Treuer is a gifted novelist who blends journalism, history and memoir. The book centers on the life and history of the Leech Lake Reservation, but touches on many of the issues felt by Native Americans across the country, including the hardships of living on a reservation.

Press TV (Iran) featured research by Valter Longo of biological sciences and gerontology finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective. The Jerusalem Post (Israel) also featured the research.

Los Angeles Times highlighted a literary discussion featuring Percival Everett, Distinguished Professor of English, and Brighde Mullins, director of the Master of Professional Writing Program.

Los Angeles Times mentioned that, during his time as chairman of the Fair Political Practices Commission, Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, posted public notices of pending investigations on the panel’s Web site.

February 11-13, 2012

BBC Radio (U.K.) featured research by Valter Longo of biological sciences and gerontology finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective. KPCC-FM’s “Off-Ramp” aired a speech and interview given at the Natural History Museum by Amy Parish of anthropology and gender studies about bonobo apes and Darwinian feminism.

Friday, February 10, 2012

The Wall Street Journal highlighted the $200 million naming gift from USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife to USC Dornsife, and the $110 million gift from USC Trustee and USC Viterbi School alumnus John Mork and wife Julie to create the USC Mork Family Scholars Program.

KPCC-FM reported that this fall USC will offer Persian language courses for the first time. A $250,000 grant from the Farhang Foundation helped to establish the program. Bruce Zuckerman, Myron and Marian Casden Director and Professor of Religion and Linguistics, said he has many students interested in the Persian language, culture and region. "The Iranian region is one that has great impact on our lives today and has had great impact going back into ancient times," he said. The story noted that USC and the Farhang Foundation hope to raise more money to create an Iranian studies minor. Payvand also featured the new courses.

The Economist featured research by Valter Longo of biological sciences and gerontology finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective. The Globe and Mail (Canada) reported that cancerous tumors are essentially energy hogs. "They need to burn lots of energy just to stay alive," Longo said. The study was also covered by Irish Independent (Ireland), Magyar Tavirati Iroda (Hungary), Anadolu Ajansi (Turkey), Son Haber (Netherlands), Vietnam+ (Vietnam), Turkish Radio and Television (Turkey) and Romania Libera (Romania).

USA Today quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s negative campaign ads.

The Queanbeyan Age (Australia) cited "The Good Divorce" by Constance Ahrons, professor emerita of sociology.

LAist highlighted a lecture by Kate Flint, Provost Professor of English and Art History, on Weegee’s photography.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Scientific American featured research by Valter Longo of biological sciences and gerontology finding that short periods of fasting could help cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy, and may even make treatment more effective. NPR Boston affiliate WBUR-FM reported that in an animal model, 40 percent of subjects who received no food or drink except water before and after chemotherapy were cured of cancer, compared with zero percent of subjects who only received chemo. Patients in California are now trying the fasting, Longo said. The study was also covered by BBC News (U.K.), Daily Mail (U.K.), La Repubblica (Italy), Corriere della Sera (Italy), The Scientist, Agence France-Presse, The Press Association (U.K.), AOL News, Asian News International, Indian Express (India), Press Trust of India (India), Radio Santiago (Chile), Diario Digital (Portugal), EFE (Spain), Salute 24 (Italy), ANSA (Italy), ASCA (Italy), Gaianews (Italy), Republika (Indonesia) and Ihlas Son Dakika (Turkey).

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 The Chronicle of Higher Education mentioned USC’s $6 billion fundraising campaign. The story noted that USC had already raised $1 billion in a "quiet phase," including the $200 million naming gift from USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife to the USC Dornsife College.

The Guardian (U.K.) highlighted two major gifts to USC in a list of the 10 biggest philanthropic benefactors in America. The list included the $200 million naming gift from USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife to USC Dornsife, and the $110 million gift from USC Trustee and USC Viterbi School alumnus John Mork and wife Julie to create the USC Mork Family Scholars Program.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the different messages that presidential incumbents and challengers seek to communicate.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about ballot initiatives competing against Gov. Jerry Brown’s effort to raise taxes.

Mobiledia quoted Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, assistant professor of psychology at the Brain and Creativity Institute, about the impact of mobile technology and social networking on teenagers.

Sugar mentioned that USC Dornsife alumnus Paul Frommer created the language Na’vi for the movie "Avatar."

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

KPCC-FM highlighted research by Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology and Dowell Myers of the USC Price School about the development of a Latino middle class. Vallejo wrote about upwardly mobile Latinos, noting that many have grown up in poor or disadvantaged communities and retain links to those communities. Among families that are economically secure, legal status allows parents to obtain well paid jobs and have more resources to invest in education. Myers’ research shows an increase in Latino and Asian American homeownership, just as aging white Californian homeowners are looking to sell their real estate.

The Sacramento Bee included the novel "Assumption" by Percival Everett, Distinguished Professor on English, in a recommended reading list for Black History Month.

CBS News Cincinnati affiliate WKRC-TV mentioned that the Southern California Earthquake Center at USC led an earthquake preparedness drill called the Great Central U.S. Shakeout.

February 4-6, 2012

CNN ran an op-ed by Antonio Damasio, director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute, about the nature of consciousness.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Pamela Starr of international relations about the chances of a PRI victory in the Mexican presidential election.

Inside Higher Ed quoted Kenneth Easwaran of philosophy about the usefulness of the American Philosophical Association’s jobs publication.

WND cited Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Republican establishment’s feelings toward Newt Gingrich. Friday, February 3, 2012

The San Diego Union-Tribune highlighted USC’s role in a new California Department of Public Health study on health risks and climate change. USC helped to develop the methodology of the study, which found that poor, urban and minority residents are the most at risk for problems related to climate change. The story noted that Manuel Pastor of American studies and ethnicity advised the study.

Philadelphia Daily News quoted Jacob Soll of history about a proposed merger between Rutgers and Rowan Universities.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about controversies surrounding Mitt Romney.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

China Review News (China) featured the USC U.S.-China Institute’s symposium on the Taiwanese elections. The story quoted Stanley Rosen of political science and Daniel Lynch of international relations. The event was also covered by the China Times (Taiwan), Central News Agency (Taiwan), Radio Taiwan International (Taiwan), Lianhe Zaobao (Singapore) and Agence France-Presse.

Current TV’s "The Young Turks" featured Ange-Marie Hancock of political science on a panel discussing the Florida Republican primary.

JoongAng Ilbo (South Korea) ran an op-ed by David Kang of international relations stating that an Arab Spring-style revolution in unlikely in North Korea. A second JoongAng Ilbo op-ed focused on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s challenges following his father’s death.

Chosun Ilbo (South Korea) interviewed David Kang of international relations about China writing its own history as it strives to be a global leader.

American Public Media’s "Marketplace" cited an interview with David Kang of international relations about the North Korean economy.

The Tampa Tribune quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Newt Gingrich’s chances of survival in February’s Republican primaries.

Burlington County Times quoted Jacob Soll of history about a merger between Rutgers and Rowan University.

KSCI-TV ran two stories (second link here) interviewing David Kang of international relations about Kim Jong Il’s death.

Star Observer (Australia) reported that Alice Echols, Barbra Streisand Professor of Contemporary Gender Studies and professor of English, gender studies and history, will speak at Melbourne’s Australian Centre for the Moving Image.

The Korea Times (South Korea) ran two stories (second link here) covering a USC Korean Studies Institute event that featured Roy Choi, founder of the Kogi Korean BBQ food trucks.

JoongAng Ilbo (South Korea) highlighted the USC Korean Studies Institute’s holiday card.

January

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

The Guardian (U.K.) featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, which has made 52,000 video testimonies by Holocaust survivors available to the University of London. Stephen Smith, executive director of the institute, said that the testimonies are more than just an archive. "This is a voice of a conscience of our age," he said. The story notes that the institute is broadening its focus and collecting testimonies from the survivors of other genocides.

Voice of America covered a symposium held by the USC U.S.-China Institute on the Taiwanese election. The event featured ideas presented by Stanley Rosen of political science, Daniel Lynch of international relations and Clayton Dube of the USC U.S.-China Institute. Rosen discussed election advertising, Lynch said it wasn’t clear what China expects of Taiwanese victor Ma Ying-jeou, and Dube said that American policy toward Taiwan is unlikely to change regardless of who wins the U.S. presidential election.

Chicago Tribune quoted Lanita Jacobs of anthropology and American studies and ethnicity about black women wearing their hair short in the ’70s as a statement of pride.

NPR interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Newt Gingrich peppering his speeches with references to late writer and political organizer Saul Alinsky.

The Tampa Tribune quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Florida Republican primary and what its outcome could mean for Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich.

San Jose Mercury News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the chances of the Republican candidate race lasting until California’s June primary.

The Sacramento Bee mentioned last year’s $200 million naming gift from USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife to USC Dornsife.

The Oregonian cited a study by Michael Messner of sociology and gender studies finding that TV sports coverage dedicated to women’s athletics has barely grown since 1989.

ScienceWatch interviewed Hashem Pesaran, John Elliott Chair in Economics and professor of economics, about his paper "A Simple Panel Unit Root Test in the Presence of Cross-Section Dependence," which Essential Science Indicators from Thomson Reuters selected as the most-cited paper in economics and business.

January 28-30, 2012

Los Angeles Times reported that Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa visited a class taught by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. "Case Studies in Modern Leadership" focuses on readings from a variety of leaders; Villaraigosa spoke about the policies that guide his own leadership and how he rose to become mayor. Schnur said that overcoming adversity is an important quality in a leader.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the Republican establishment’s feelings toward Newt Gingrich. Friday, January 27, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney and the Florida Republican debates. Before the debate, Schnur wrote that this was the most important night of Romney’s political life. A poor performance could doom his chances at winning the primaries, though a stellar performance wouldn’t guarantee the nomination would be his. The New York Times also ran a post-debate op-ed by Schnur, in which he wrote that despite some stumbles, Romney gave his best debate performance yet.

La Repubblica (Italy) ran an op-ed by Antonio Damasio, director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute, about the roots of moral reasoning. Damasio wrote that moral conventions grew out of instinctual, unconscious responses that developed before humans even had the ability to reason. Conscious human reasoning refined those instincts into true moral conventions. These emotions were selected in evolution because they contributed to better management of life by solving social problems, Damasio wrote.

The Washington Post quoted Jacques Hymans of international relations about the possibility of the Japanese abandoning plans to restart idled nuclear reactors.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

OurAmazingPlanet featured research by Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies, and Jason Sylvan of biological sciences, finding that marine life persists even after the hydrothermal sea vents it is based around go dormant. Edwards and her team found that when the vents die, the microbes that fed on a vent’s gases are supplanted by ones that feed on the iron and sulfur in the vents themselves.

Reuters quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about presidential candidate Newt Gingrich’s penchant for what rival Rick Santorum termed "grandiose ideas."

The Christian Science Monitor quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, on why Gov. Jerry Brown has continued to support California’s proposed high-speed rail plan.

Contra Costa Times quoted Ange-Marie Hancock of political science about political leanings among college freshmen.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

London Evening Standard (U.K.) featured the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, which has made 52,000 video testimonies by Holocaust survivors available to the University of London. The collection will be accessible to academics, students and the public. The story noted that filmmaker Steven Spielberg started the institute in 1994 after making "Schindler’s List."

United Press International featured research by Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies, and Jason Sylvan of biological sciences, finding that marine life persists even after the hydrothermal sea vents it is based around go dormant. Edwards and her team found that when the vents die, microbes that fed on a vent’s gases are supplanted by ones that feed on the iron and sulphur in the vents themselves. Asian News International also featured the research. San Jose Mercury News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about a rising tide of support for Gov. Jerry Brown's tax initiative.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Taipei Times (Taiwan) highlighted an article written by Daniel Lynch of international relations about the Taiwanese presidential elections and relations between Taiwan and China.

Knoxville News Sentinel featured Marianne Wiggins of English, author of “Evidence of Things Unseen,” who will speak tonight at the East Tennessee History Center. Wiggins’ book, nominated for both the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize, is set in Knoxville and surrounding areas. Another News Sentinel story featured the book.

Los Angeles Times quoted Karen Sternheimer of sociology, author of “Celebrity Culture and the American Dream: Stardom and Social Mobility,” about the reality show “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

The Huffington Post featured the Welcoming Synagogues project, started as a pilot last year by Joel Kushner, who teaches in USC Dornsife is director of the Institute for Judaism and Sexual Orientation.

January 21-23, 2012

Financial Times (U.K.) quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s challenge in raising taxes on Californians.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the political ramifications of Solyndra and Bain Capital history on President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, respectively.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Los Angeles Times cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that Californian voters are willing to raise taxes to increase funding for public schools, and quoted Dominic Brewer of the USC Rossier School about California education policy.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

The Huffington Post quoted Ange-Marie Hancock of political science about Newt Gingrich’s suggestion that janitorial jobs be given to poor schoolchildren.

KPCC-FM interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s State of the State Address.

The Dallas Morning News highlighted research by Amon Emeka and Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology showing that six percent of those with Latin American ancestry didn’t self-identify as Latino on the census.

SmartPlanet cited research by Mark Thompson of chemistry, materials science and environmental studies about the possibility of OLED screens reaching 100 percent efficiency. La Opinion covered a survey developed by Karen Hennigan of psychology that identifies at-risk youth engaged in gang life, and quoted Hennigan.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

CNN ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Jon Huntsman’s terminated presidential campaign. Huntsman started the campaign in a combative mode, and didn’t really seem to want to be branded a conservative, Schnur wrote.

Foreign Policy ran an op-ed co-authored by Laurie Brand, Robert Grandford Wright Professor and professor of international relations, and Fayez Y. Hammad of political science and international relations about reverberations from the Arab Spring that have been rippling through Jordan.

SmartPlanet reported that USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi researchers have discovered a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere using a new material. The story stated that while the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is not new, doing it affordably on an industrial scale is very difficult, and the new research may one day allow scientists to do so. The research was conducted by Alain Goeppert, G.K. Surya Prakash and George Olah of chemistry and colleagues.

The Guardian (U.K.) quoted Stanley Rosen of political science about Chinese tour groups being instructed to stay away from campaigning during the Taiwanese presidential election.

Irish Times (Ireland) reviewed “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics” by Steven Ross of history. The book covers 10 movie professionals — including Charlie Chaplin and Arnold Schwarzenegger — and their forays into politics.

Chicago Tribune highlighted research by Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, and scholar David Neal, who was with USC while the research was conducted, on mindless eating.

The Wichita Eagle reported that Deborah Harkness of history will discuss her novel "A Discovery of Witches" in Wichita, and quoted her about the process of writing the book.

January 14-17, 2012

The New York Times highlighted research by Amon Emeka and Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology showing that six percent of those with Latin American ancestry surveyed didn’t self-identify as Latino on the U.S. Census. The story noted the trend was more prevalent among those of mixed parentage who spoke only English and who identified as white, black or Asian when asked their race.

Foreign Affairs ran an op-ed by Daniel Lynch of international relations about the Taiwanese elections. It was more than just economics that drove the voters to elect Ma Ying-jeou, Lynch wrote.

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the balance of power shifting from establishment Republicans to grassroots segments.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Los Angeles Times reviewed a Museum of Contemporary Art exhibit that is curated by Richard Meyer of art history. “Naked Hollywood: Weegee in Los Angeles” features photography from the famous tabloid photojournalist. De Groene Amsterdammer (Netherlands) interviewed Antonio Damasio, director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute, about the nature of consciousness. Awareness is the phenomenal ability to have a mind with an owner, he said. The story highlighted Damasio’s work researching patients with brain abnormalities at USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about redistricting in California.

Bloomberg Businessweek quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about how Mitt Romney’s record in business could work to his advantage.

Sacramento News & Review quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s focus on passing a ballot initiative this year.

The Sun quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the retirement of U.S. Representative Jerry Lewis.

The Vancouver Sun (Canada) cited a study by Donald Miller, Firestone Professor of Religion and professor of religion and sociology, and colleagues on an increased prevalence of tattooing among young Christians.

Knoxville News Sentinel highlighted research by Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, and scholar David Neal, who was with USC while the research was conducted, on mindless eating. The story also quoted Wood.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

KQED-FM reported that USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi researchers have discovered a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, even creating “artificial trees” that could slow down climate change. The story noted that team members G.K. Surya Prakash and George Olah of chemistry are exploring the possibility that carbon could help rather than hinder the planet. “We want to take CO2, and instead of burying it underground, use it as a raw material, and convert it with alternative energy sources back to fuels and feedstocks,” Prakash said.

National Post (Canada) quoted Steven Ross of history about silent film “The Artist” and its chances of winning an Oscar.

San Francisco Chronicle quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s recent ballot proposal.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

The Journal Gazette reported that USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi researchers have discovered a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, even creating “artificial trees” that could slow down climate change. Using a new, affordable plastic, the researchers hope to one day absorb carbon dioxide from polluting agents like smokestacks and cars, recycling the gas; the material could also be used to create farms of artificial trees that could lower concentrations of carbon dioxide. The researchers include Nobel Prize winner George Olah, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, and Donald P. and Katherine B. Loker Chair in Organic Chemistry, and G.K. Surya Prakash, George A. and Judith A. Olah Nobel Laureate Chair in Hydrocarbon Chemistry and professor of chemistry.

Asian News International featured research by Katrina Edwards of biological sciences, earth sciences and environmental studies, and director of USC’s Center for Dark Energy Biosphere Investigations, on microbial life at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Edwards and a University of Bremen colleague led an expedition to install observation devices on the sea floor. The data gathered will help scientists understand how sub-sea-floor microbes shape the Earth’s oceans and crust, the story reported.

Central News Agency (Taiwan) interviewed Stanley Rosen of political science about Taiwan’s upcoming presidential election. KSCI-TV also interviewed Rosen and Dube.

People quoted David Kang, director of the USC Korean Studies Institute, about new North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Los Angeles Times reported that USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi researchers have discovered a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The researchers say that the process has the highest carbon dioxide removal capacity to date for real-world conditions. G.K. Surya Prakash, George A. and Judith A. Olah Nobel Laureate Chair in Hydrocarbon Chemistry and professor of chemistry, said the method could eventually remove carbon dioxide from coal-burning power plants and cement plants. The carbon dioxide could be recycled and used to create more resources. “Everybody says CO2 is a villain,” Prakash added. “But without CO2, there won’t be life on Earth.” The material used in the process is so attractive to carbon dioxide that it can pull the molecule right out of the air, which is an important quality, Alain Goeppert in the Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute told California Watch.

Los Angeles Times ran an obituary for Sidney Benson, co-director of USC’s Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute, thermochemistry expert and a researcher for the Manhattan Project. Benson ran the institute with Nobel Prize winner George Olah Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, and Donald P. and Katherine B. Loker Chair in Organic Chemistry. The story stated that Benson made major contributions to the study of air pollution, the ozone layer, combustion and explosions.The article noted that Benson was recruited in 1943 by Anton Burg, who in the postwar period developed USC’s chemistry department into a highly regarded source of research.

Associated Press featured a survey developed by USC Dornsife researchers that identifies at-risk youth engaged in gang life. The survey, set to be released this month through anti-gang counselors, is designed to flag young people likely to enter or leave a gang so that more outreach can be provided to them. Karen Hennigan of psychology said that the survey tests the ability to resist peer pressure.

Advertising Age featured research by Amon Emeka and Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology finding that millions of Latinos aren’t identifying themselves as such on U.S. Census forms, which has major implications for advertisers. The study found that nearly six percent of people with Hispanic/Latin American backgrounds failed to check the “Spanish/Hispanic/Latino” box.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s recent budget proposal. La Opinion quoted Sheila Briggs of religion and gender studies about the Catholic Church’s policy of mandatory celibacy. A second story in La Opinion quoted Briggs.

The Sacramento Bee quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about public perceptions of politicians’ medical problems.

The Chronicle of Higher Education mentioned research by Daniela Bleichmar of art history and history on the history of intellectual networks.

NBC News South Bend, Ind., affiliate WNDU-TV covered an earthquake safety event located in Indiana that was sponsored by the Southern California Earthquake Center at USC. Associated Press and The Indianapolis Star also mentioned the event.

The Morung Express (India) cited research by Antonio Damasio, director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute, about a woman who had suffered a brain injury and began confabulating.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency mentioned a multimedia Holocaust education curriculum developed in collaboration with the USC Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education.

January 7-9, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education highlighted the Joint Educational Project, a first-round winner of a MacArthur Foundation grant to use a new educational-badge platform. The online platform would allow students to detail their experiences with service-learning by earning badges in mentorship or other proposed areas.

L.A. Weekly featured research by Amon Emeka and Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology finding that millions of Latinos aren’t identifying themselves as such on U.S. Census forms. The study found that nearly six percent of people with Hispanic/Latin American backgrounds failed to check the “Spanish/Hispanic/Latino” box. Because this data is used to draw congressional district lines and decide government spending, Latinos in certain areas could be underserved.

Bloomberg News quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s recent proposed budget, which he called “the most expensive ransom note in California political history.”

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV interviewed Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Gov. Jerry Brown’s recent budget proposal for California. In a second segment, Schnur discussed the national political scene and the GOP race for the presidency.

Politico quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger attempting to redefine his legacy.

New Straits Times (Malaysia) noted that USC Dornsife alumnus Paul Frommer created the language Na’vi for the movie “Avatar.”

San Antonio Express-News highlighted “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness of history, including it in a list of the best books of 2011.

The Fresno Bee reported that the USC Sea Grant program is accepting applications until February 17. Friday, January 6, 2012

The New York Times ran an op-ed by Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich’s announcement last month that he would run a positive campaign. Schnur wrote that he wished Gingrich had been able to maintain the commitment, because the chance of offering voters a successful campaign that doesn’t descend into ugly personal attacks would have been worth it.

The Christian Science Monitor featured work by G.K. Surya Prakash, George A. and Judith A. Olah Nobel Laureate Chair in Hydrocarbon Chemistry and professor of chemistry, and team of researchers, which found a new material for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The project’s aim was to reuse carbon dioxide as much as possible to combat global warming, said Prakash.

The Philadelphia Inquirer highlighted research by Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, and scholar David Neal, who was with USC while the research was conducted, on mindless eating. The researchers found that people who were used to eating popcorn at would eat it even if given popcorn that was stale. However, when subjects used their non-dominant hand to eat, they were able to discriminate between stale and fresh popcorn.

The Huffington Post highlighted research by Amon Emeka and Jody Agius Vallejo of sociology, which found that many Latinos do not identify ethnically as Latino as they assimilate into American society. The study found that of 44.1 million U.S. residents who declared Hispanic or Latin American ancestry in 2011, six percent didn’t identify as such on a 2006 U.S. Census survey. The research attributed this both to confusion over terms like ethnicity, ancestry and race, and to people feeling that they belonged to more than one ethnic group.

The Root quoted Manuel Pastor of American studies ethnicity, director of Program for Environmental and Regional Equity at USC, about an impending generational gap in several states between older whites and younger Latinos and African Americans.

The Washington Post ran a column by USC Dornsife students Naader Banki and Steven Gagliano on university mentorship.

Entertainment Weekly named “House of Prayer No. 2” by Mark Richard of the Masters in Professional Writing Program the No. 1 Best Nonfiction Book of 2011.

NBC News’ “NBC Nightly News” cited the USC Dornsife College/Los Angeles Times Poll finding that 64 percent of Californians would pay higher taxes to benefit public schools.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

The New York Times ran a tribute to late philosopher Michael Dummett, written by James Higginbotham, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and Linguistics. In 1990, Dummett offered commentary on a paper that Higginbotham presented to the Philosophical Society. “Above all, he exemplified for me that purity of philosophical commitment and character to which I hoped to aspire,” Higginbotham wrote.

Los Angeles Times quoted Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, about the processes that govern addictive behavior. Los Angeles Times quoted Julie Albright of sociology about depictions of marriage and fidelity on TV. A second Los Angeles Times story also quoted Albright.

Los Angeles Times quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the potential for change in the California legislature due to swing districts.

Reuters quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about the level of scrutiny Rick Santorum will face as a presidential candidate.

The Chronicle of Higher Education highlighted an article by Judith Halberstam of English, American studies and ethnicity, and gender studies about university English scholars, and quoted her on the subject.

Financial Post (Canada) cited research by Richard Easterlin, University Professor and professor of economics, finding that happiness does not continually increase with a country’s average income.

NBC News Palm Springs, Calif., affiliate KMIR-TV cited the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll finding that 64 percent of Californians would pay higher taxes to benefit public schools.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

The Chronicle of Higher Education noted that two multimillion-dollar gifts received by USC were among the largest given to nonprofit organizations in 2011. The Chronicle of Philanthropy published a list of the 12 largest gifts, including the $200 million naming gift from USC Trustee and alumnus David Dornsife and wife Dana Dornsife to USC Dornsife.

The Chronicle of Higher Education featured Judith "Jack" Halberstam of English, American studies and ethnicity, and gender studies. The story stated that Halberstam has challenged the idea of gender as a static quality and has analyzed masculinity among women, a topic that has been overlooked by feminist scholars in the past. She’s also known for challenging the way academic studies are presented, often peppering presentations and writings with wry pop culture references and humor, the story noted.

Los Angeles Times quoted Kevin Starr, University Professor and professor of history, about the condition of San Francisco’s Coit Tower.

Time quoted David Ginsburg of environmental studies about Southern California’s water crisis.

NPR interviewed Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business, about behavior research in the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.

Los Angeles Times highlighted the USC Dornsife course "Literature of California."

December 26, 2011 - January 3, 2012

The New York Times featured a Q&A with David Treuer of English, who recently wrote Rez Life, a book about growing up on a reservation in Minnesota.

The Washington Post quoted Dan Schnur, director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics, about Mitt Romney’s ascendance in the field of Republican presidential candidates. Today (Singapore) cited Antonio Damasio, director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute, about the neural processes governing empathy and deep thought.