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Science News for July 20, 2007


How do newcomers make changes in long-standing groups?

Research in PSPB finds that newcomers' statements arouse less agreement and more negativity than those from old-timers, making it harder for them to bring about positive change. However, authors suggest that newcomers can gain more influence by showing commitment to their group identity.

SourceSAGE·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJul 20, 2007

Cancer research summaries

A retrospective study published in The Lancet found no excess risk of cancer among individuals who received blood products from donors with previously diagnosed cancers. The study included over 12,000 exposed individuals and 342,082 unexposed individuals, concluding that long-term cancer survivors might be a safe donor group.

SourceEuropean School of Oncology·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 2007

Health-care providers could help avert depression in fathers of children with fatal cancer

A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that parents' intellectual and emotional awareness time of their child's impending death is strongly associated with future health outcomes. Healthcare providers can play a crucial role in reducing long-term depression, employment issues, and psychological problems by providing adequate in...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJul 20, 2007

Status of adolescent peer groups plays role in understanding groups influence on early teen behavior

A new study found that popular peer groups have a profound influence on early teen behavior, causing children to become more similar in behavior to their group members. Conversely, well-liked groups have little impact, except for adolescents who are part of disliked groups, which can lead to increased deviant behavior.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 20, 2007

One species, many genomes

Researchers found nearly four percent of Arabidopsis genes are variable and some are non-functional, revealing a highly adaptable plant with a streamlined genome. The study suggests that environmental conditions drive gene variation, enabling plants to adapt to different climates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJul 20, 2007