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Science News Archive November 2011 - Page 7


Page 7 of 28

Awareness biases information processing

A new study found that conscious awareness influences information processing during decision making, leading to non-linear integration strategies. Participants who were aware of the evidence weighted new information based on their existing knowledge.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 22, 2011

Depression and anxiety not linked to delayed resolution of abnormal mammograms, Pap tests

Research from Boston University School of Medicine found no association between depression and delayed diagnostic resolution after abnormal mammograms or Pap tests. Women with psychiatric disorders face disparities in cancer screening and outcomes, but this study suggests pre-existing depression is not a significant barrier to resolution.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 22, 2011

The best way to market fine wine: Teach and learn or wine and dine?

A recent study published in Cornell Hospitality Quarterly found that novice wine consumers can be swayed by advertising and create stronger memories when they have a better understanding of the product's background. To combat this, wine producers are advised to combine tasting experiences with educational materials.

SourceSAGE·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateNov 22, 2011

Physical activity impacts overall quality of sleep

A new study found that 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week significantly improves sleep quality, with participants feeling less sleepy during the day. The study's results support mounting research linking regular exercise to various health benefits, including improved daytime alertness.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·DateNov 22, 2011

Seals show different levels of parenting skills

Researchers found that seal mothers adopt a wide range of mothering styles, with some being very attentive while others are not. The study also revealed large differences in response to potential dangers among both female and male seals, with no correlation to age or size.

SourceDurham University·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateNov 22, 2011

Stigma among HIV-positive women complex and overlapping

A study by Mona Loutfy and colleagues found that women experience a complex system of stigma related to HIV, sexism, racism, homophobia, and sex work. The researchers identified resilience, social networks, and challenging stigma as effective coping strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 22, 2011

Why has synesthesia survived evolution?

Researchers find synesthesia is an authentic phenomenon with sensory basis, common among artists and novelists. The 'synesthesia gene' may have evolved to make highly creative individuals more prone to link unrelated ideas.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 22, 2011

Olympic Villages: Catalyst for urban renewal, or post-Games hangover?

Cities' grandiose Olympic Village projects often prioritize private sector interests over public good, leading to significant financial burdens on taxpayers. Sociologist Jay Scherer's research highlights the importance of democratic transparency in such partnerships, emphasizing the need for community benefits and fair risk distribution.

A better way to count molecules discovered

A new method for counting molecules has been developed by researchers at Karolinska Institutet, allowing for the accurate measurement of RNA and DNA molecules in cells. This breakthrough enables the counting of absolute numbers of molecules, rather than just relative differences between samples.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 21, 2011

Wildlife access critical to children's health

Researchers discovered a powerful connection between loss of wildlife access and micronutrient deficiencies in children. Losing access to wildlife induces a 30% relative increase in anemia prevalence among pre-adolescent children. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent severe health consequences.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 2011

Mortality rates for pharynx and mouth cancers have decreased

Mortality rates for patients with oral cavity and pharynx cancer have decreased significantly between 1993 and 2007. The largest declines were observed among black men and women with at least 12 years of education, suggesting that improvements in detection, treatment, and risk factors contribute to these decreases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateNov 21, 2011