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Science News for January 16, 2009


Players love the game not the gore

A new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that violent content does not increase enjoyment in video games. Instead, challenges and a sense of autonomy are key drivers of player engagement. For most players, gore actually detracts from the game's 'fun factor'.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJan 16, 2009

Salt reduction may offer cardioprotective effects beyond blood pressure reduction

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that reducing salt intake can have cardioprotective effects beyond lowering blood pressure. The research found benefits for people with normal blood pressure and those who are overweight or obese, starting as early as a few weeks after sodium reduction.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition - 2017·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 16, 2009

Is there a relationship between sleep-wake rhythm and diabetes?

A new gene variant associated with fasting glucose levels influences insulin secretion via melatonin metabolism, implicating a previously unknown relationship between the sleep-wake rhythm and diabetes. Further studies will explore the role of melatonin in regulating insulin secretion and potentially lead to new treatment options.

Why you can't hurry love

A mathematical model by UCL researchers explains how extended courtship enables a male to signal his suitability and the female to screen out unsuitable mates. The study shows that long courtship carries information about the male's type, making it more probable that he is a good male over time.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateJan 16, 2009

Seasonal variation in blood pressure

A French study of 8801 elderly participants found significant seasonal variations in systolic and diastolic blood pressure according to outdoor temperature. The authors advise careful monitoring and antihypertensive treatment during extreme temperatures, particularly in the elderly, who are at higher risk of cardiovascular events.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 16, 2009