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Science News for July 26, 2005


The enigmatic face

A recent study found that motion significantly enhances people's ability to recognize subtle facial expressions, particularly when displayed dynamically rather than statically. The research suggests that motion reveals the temporal characteristics of emotions and improves sensitivity to communication of emotion.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 26, 2005

Bacteria feed on smelly breath (and feet)

A recent study published in Environmental Microbiology found methylotrophic bacteria present in the mouths of healthy volunteers and those with gum disease, but no association between bacterial levels and bad breath. The discovery may lead to a natural way of reducing smelly breath and feet.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJul 26, 2005

Cameras may curb false confessions

A review published in Psychological Science in the Public Interest suggests that videotaping interrogations can curb false confessions. The authors propose that all interviews and interrogations should be recorded in their entirety to accurately assess confessions.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJul 26, 2005

Chickadees can help humans get their bearings

Researchers found that wild-caught mountain chickadees differ from previous species tested by consistently ignoring angular features of their environment and following landmarks. This discovery suggests that animals may be predisposed to navigate by geometry, contradicting prior research.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 26, 2005

Cameras may curb false confessions

False confessions are a significant issue in law enforcement, with various factors contributing to their occurrence. Research suggests that mandatory videotaping of police interviews and interrogations could help reduce these cases by providing an objective record of the proceedings.

SourceWilliams College·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJul 26, 2005

Mental health following stroke, spinal cord injury; sensory evaluation tools

Researchers investigated mental health outcomes after stroke and spinal cord injury, exploring the effects of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) and sensory evaluation tools. The study found that patients with depression struggled with low expectations of recovery and finding it difficult to accept losses.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateJul 26, 2005

PET can identify effectiveness of chemotherapy early in high-risk breast cancer patients

A new study suggests that PET imaging can identify which breast cancer patients are likely to respond to chemotherapy, allowing for more effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. This breakthrough could lead to the development of personalized treatment plans, giving patients and doctors more options.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJul 26, 2005