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Science News for February 20, 2009


Decoding short-term memory with fMRI

Researchers at the University of Oregon and UC-San Diego used fMRI to identify specific information people store in short-term memory. They found that brain activity patterns can predict what someone is remembering based on visual details.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 20, 2009

Female genital mutilation among Israel's Negev Bedouins has virtually disappeared -- BGU study

A follow-up study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that none of the 132 women under 30 had scarring from female genital mutilation, indicating a significant decline in its practice among the Bedouin population. Improved healthcare and westernization are believed to be key factors contributing to this shift.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2009

Global warning: Hotter days, increased hospitalizations for respiratory problems

An analysis of European cities found that higher temperatures lead to a significant increase in respiratory-related hospitalizations. For every degree increase above 90% of the maximum apparent temperature, there was a four percent average increase in respiratory-related hospitalizations, especially among the elderly.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2009