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Science News Archive November 2013 - Page 23


Page 23 of 30

Universals of conversation

A cross-linguistic study found that words signaling problems with understanding, such as 'Huh?', have similar form and function in languages worldwide. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of human communication and the role of universal linguistic devices.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 8, 2013

Pregnant woman with limited English speaking skills find comfort in prenatal support groups

A University of Michigan Health System study found that prenatal group visits for expectant Japanese women who discussed childbirth and baby care topics with peers felt less anxious and better prepared. The groups allowed women to connect on a personal level, share experiences, and take control of their pregnancy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 7, 2013

Climate may play a role in the distribution and prevalence of trachoma

A new study finds that high temperatures and low rainfall influence trachoma transmission in Africa, with eye-seeking flies more active at higher temperatures and abundant in areas with low rainfall. The World Health Organization aims to eliminate blinding trachoma by 2020, but understanding all factors affecting the disease is crucial.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 7, 2013

Clotting protein hardens aging hearts

Researchers at Rice University discovered that the accumulation of von Willebrand factor (VWF) in heart valve tissues contributes to their progressive hardening with age. As tissues from pig valves are commonly used to make human heart-valve replacements, VWF helps regulate blood clotting in both pigs and humans.

Getting to grips with seizure prediction

Researchers have developed software that can learn from a patient's normal and seizure electrical activity to predict when another seizure may occur. This allows for an early warning system, potentially enabling people with epilepsy to live safer lives by avoiding hazardous situations before a seizure begins.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Data Mining and Bioinformatics·DateNov 7, 2013

Anxiety help comes, eventually, via primary care

A new study found that seven in 10 primary care patients with anxiety disorders eventually received adequate medication or psychotherapy, but this took years and was less likely for minorities. The study also showed that people with higher education levels were more likely to receive care.

SourceBrown University·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateNov 7, 2013

3 'hands on' nutrition classes -- Enough to impact health behaviors in lower income women

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that three educational sessions on nutrition had a significant impact on the knowledge and behaviors of 118 low-income women. The classes used a holistic approach and experiential learning, covering topics such as shopping, cooking techniques, and food se...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 7, 2013

Horrors of war harden group bonds

Research finds that war exposure during key periods of life strengthens affinity for one's own group, promoting nation-building or conflict cycles. The study involved participants from war-torn Georgia and Sierra Leone, who showed greater willingness to reduce inequality with partners from their village or school.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 7, 2013