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University of Missouri-Columbia


Health news stories on local television news broadcasts are too short, MU researcher says

Researchers found that local TV health news stories are typically under 30 seconds long, which can lead to a lack of understanding about complex health topics. The study also revealed that gain-framed messages tend to promote positive behavior change, but loss-framed messages may be more effective for certain types of health information.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHealth Communication·DateOct 21, 2013

Americans don't contribute enough to retirement funds, MU researcher finds

A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Rui Yao found that over 90% of future retirees are contributing only a minimal amount to their retirement funds. This is concerning given the uncertain future of social security benefits and the need for individuals to save more for their own financial security and the country's sake.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFamily and Consumer Sciences Research Journal·DateSep 30, 2013

Different stories play different roles in patients' health decision-making, MU researcher says

A MU researcher found that certain types of stories in patient decision-aids can inform patients' decisions without influencing their choices. Process narratives helped women search for information, while experience narratives improved their ability to envision treatment outcomes and evaluate their decisions more favorably.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 18, 2013

Cities with high racial economic inequality and widespread poverty increase police force size

Research by University of Missouri sociologists found that cities with high racial economic inequality and widespread poverty tend to increase their police forces. The study suggests that the perception of threat is influenced by a combination of large inequalities and severe poverty, leading city governments to boost police force size.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Sociology and Social Policy·DateAug 8, 2013

Fossil of great ape sheds light on evolution

A University of Missouri expert analyzed the pelvis fragments of an early hominid fossil, revealing insights into the evolution of modern great apes. The study suggests that the ape's wider pelvis indicates greater lateral balance and stability, while its distinct finger bones indicate a different evolutionary path than initially thought.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMay 1, 2013

Economics influence fertility rates more than other factors

A recent study by University of Missouri anthropologist Mary Shenk found that economic changes, such as higher education and employment, are the primary drivers of declining fertility rates. This shift is attributed to improved living standards and increased access to contraception, resulting in reduced family size and slowing populati...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2013