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Science News for November 18, 2003


Study suggests US stop smoking effort paying off

A study of the American Stop Smoking Intervention Study (ASSIST) found that states participating in the program experienced a greater reduction in adult smoking prevalence and lower per capita cigarette consumption compared to non-participating states. If all 50 states had implemented ASSIST, an estimated 278,700 fewer smokers nationwi...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 18, 2003

Cocoa froths with cancer-preventing compounds

Researchers at Cornell University found that cocoa contains nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine and up to three times those found in green tea. The high content of phenolic phytochemicals, or flavonoids, is responsible for this superior antioxidant activity.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 18, 2003

How backhoes get the shakes

A recent study by Margolis and Shim found that a small movement of the mechanical controls in backhoes can lead to rapid vibration, causing operators to lose control. The problem can be eliminated by stiffening the suspension of the cab or developing automatic control systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Dynamic Systems Measurement and Control·DateNov 18, 2003

High nuclear grade associated with recurrence of in situ breast lesions

A study of 1,036 women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) diagnosed at age 40 or older found that those with high-nuclear-grade lesions had a higher risk of invasive cancer recurrence. Women treated by lumpectomy alone who experienced initial palpation-detected lesions also faced a greater risk of recurrence.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 18, 2003

Study finds racial differences in survival rates after prostate cancer treatment

Researchers found that black patients undergoing surgery had a median survival time 1.8 years less than white patients, with disparities smaller among radiation therapy and non-aggressive therapy groups. The study suggests genetic and environmental factors may contribute to these racial disparities in prostate cancer treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 18, 2003

How to hit home runs

A study published in the American Journal of Physics found that the speed of a baseball bat when it hits the ball is the most important factor in hitting a home run. Curve balls are thrown with topspin, which automatically gives them backspin and lift upon impact, making them carry further than fastballs.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateNov 18, 2003

Men, women perceive Muslim world differently

A new study reveals that Western perceptions of the Muslim world vary greatly depending on gender. Women tend to perceive Islamic culture as sensual and attractive, while men often view it as uncivilized and barbaric. This disparity highlights a complex interplay between cultural stereotypes and media representation.