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Science News for December 30, 2013


Climate change spurs tropical mangroves to expand in the north

Climate change is allowing mangroves to thrive in new areas around northern Florida, with the species' range expanding by over 3,000 acres between 1984 and 2011. The growth of mangroves may pose challenges for other coastal ecosystems, such as salt marshes, which could face loss of habitat and biodiversity.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2013

Slower-paced meal reduces hunger but affects calorie consumption differently

A new study found that slowing down meal pace can lead to reduced hunger and calories consumed in normal-weight individuals. However, the effect was less pronounced in overweight or obese subjects, who may have eaten less due to self-consciousness. Both groups experienced lower hunger levels after slower-paced meals.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateDec 30, 2013

Minority physicians care for a majority of underserved patients in the US

A recent study found that minority physicians care for 54% of minority patients and 70% of non-English-speaking patients. Minority physicians are also more likely to care for patients with lower self-reported health status. The study suggests expanding the racial diversity of the physician workforce could improve access to care.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 2013

Medicaid beneficiaries use emergency services due to lack of alternatives

A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that Medicaid beneficiaries are more likely to seek emergency care due to access issues rather than the severity of their illness. The study suggests that policy makers should focus on increasing timely access to primary care, especially for Medicaid beneficiaries.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 2013

Mangroves expand north as Florida freezes decline

Researchers found mangroves are expanding along hundreds of miles of coastline in Florida, with a doubling of habitat in areas like Daytona Beach and Titusville. The expansion is linked to a decrease in cold snaps, which allows mangroves to thrive in previously inhospitable conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2013

Final recommendations on lung cancer screening

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk adults between 55 and 80 years old. Heavy smokers or former heavy smokers who have quit within the past 15 years are considered high risk due to increased lung cancer risk. The recommendation is based on comprehensive evi...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 2013