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Science News for October 20, 2006


People living in highly black concentrated neighborhoods more likely to report their health as poor

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that individuals living in high Black concentrated neighborhoods were twice as likely to report poor health compared to those in low concentration areas. This association persisted even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors.

Ethnic identity gives teens daily happiness boost

A new study by Wake Forest University psychologist Lisa Kiang suggests that positive feelings toward one's ethnic group can provide an extra boost of positivity in individuals' daily lives. Adolescents with higher ethnic regard rated their daily happiness levels higher than those with lower ethnic regard.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalChild Development·DateOct 20, 2006

Mass extinction's cause: 'Sick Earth'

Research led by USC earth scientist David Bottjer suggests the Earth's environmental stressors led to mass extinction, contradicting meteorite strike theory. The study proposes a warming Earth and reduced ocean circulation as key factors in creating an environment where toxic hydrogen sulfide dominated, leading to species disappearances.

Researchers reveal mystery of bacterial magnetism

Researchers discovered that magnetotaxis, a phenomenon where bacteria align like tiny swimming compass needles, helps them detect lower oxygen concentrations more efficiently. This subtle advantage allows the bacteria to thrive in environments with limited oxygen, making their magnetic properties beneficial in nature.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 20, 2006