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Science News Archive December 2002 - Page 4


Page 4 of 7

Toy choice among boys, girls a matter of monkey business

A study by Gerianne Alexander found that male and female monkeys showed similar preferences for 'boy' and 'girl' toys as human children, suggesting innate preferences. The findings suggest that perceptual cues attract males to active play objects like cars and balls, while females prefer toys with nurturing functions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateDec 10, 2002

The biology of induced memory

Research shows that memories in the amygdala and hippocampus can be reactivated and require protein synthesis for restoration, contradicting long-held theories of memory storage. Dr. Nader's findings also explain false memory syndrome by revealing the biological basis of reconsolidation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 10, 2002

Affordable weapons for the war on terror

The Office of Naval Research has developed a new missile called the Affordable Weapon, designed to carry a significant payload to a target several hundred miles away. Equipped with GPS navigation and line-of-sight data links, the Affordable Weapon can fly directly to its target or loiter until directed by a forward observer.

New evidence linking smoking and lung cancer in women

A Mayo Clinic study found that adenocarcinoma of the lung is more strongly associated with smoking than previously recognized. Women who smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 20 to 39 years had a higher risk of developing lung cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateDec 10, 2002

Internet porn-blocking software needn’t block health information, study finds

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that internet filters can effectively distinguish between health information and pornography when set at moderate levels. However, highly restrictive settings may block a significant portion of essential health sites, while still providing excellent porn ...

Nutrition advice makes heart-healthy diet more satisfying

A new study finds that nutrition counseling for high cholesterol patients significantly improves their ability to manage their condition while maintaining or improving their overall health. Patients who received personalized feedback and educational materials reported increased satisfaction with their care and healthier eating habits.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateDec 9, 2002

Irrigation may produce arsenic-tainted rice in Bangladesh

A recent study by researchers found that rice grown in areas with contaminated fields in Bangladesh has arsenic levels 10-fold higher than uncontaminated areas. The World Health Organization warns that the tubewell crisis in Bangladesh is the largest mass poisoning of a population in history, with potential health risks for millions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 9, 2002