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The benefits of slowness

Researchers developed an AI algorithm that uses the 'slowness principle' to estimate age and ethnicity by ignoring rapidly changing facial features. The system achieves impressive accuracy, outperforming even human experts in face recognition.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMachine Learning·DateJun 15, 2020

Ethnic minorities' employment prospects lag behind white majority

A new study found that UK ethnic minorities continue to face significant challenges in employment, with many groups more likely to be in manual work or unemployed than their white counterparts. The research highlights the impact of persistent racism on access to positive socioeconomic outcomes and social mobility.

SourceSAGE·JournalSociology·DateJun 15, 2020

18.2 million at increased risk of severe COVID-19 uninsured or underinsured: Harvard study

A new study by Harvard researchers finds that 18.2 million individuals at increased risk of severe COVID-19 are uninsured or underinsured, with racial minorities and lower-income individuals being disproportionately affected. The study highlights the need for adequate coverage to prevent financial ruin and ensure access to necessary care.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2020

Discrimination may erase 'birthweight advantage' of black US immigrants in one generation

A recent study published by Princeton University researchers reveals that the 'healthy immigrant' effect experienced by foreign-born black women is lost within a single generation due to discrimination and inequality. In contrast, foreign-born Hispanic women maintain a modest advantage in birthweight across generations.

Women quotas in politics have unintended consequences

A study by University of Rochester researchers found that women quotas in India's local government elections led to a reduction in the representation of lower caste groups, while increasing the representation of Hindu upper castes. The quota policy aimed to increase female representation but ultimately had unintended consequences.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateMay 21, 2020

Timing of maturity, feelings about ethnicity and race can positively affect black males' self-concept, well-being

A new study explored the relationships between pubertal changes, ethnic-racial identity, and mental health in young African American and Caribbean Black males. The study found that positive levels of ethnic-racial identity buffered the effects of early puberty, leading to higher self-esteem and lower symptoms of depression. The finding...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateMay 5, 2020

Public does not grasp idea of 'futile treatment' for critically ill patients

A new UCLA study reveals that most laypersons misunderstand the concept of 'futile treatment,' a crucial discussion for families making end-of-life decisions. The research highlights the need for increased public engagement on this issue, particularly in resource-scarce healthcare systems like during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 29, 2020

BU researchers: Race and income shape COVID-19 risk

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that Black, Native American, and lower-income people are more likely to have underlying conditions increasing the risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19. The researchers analyzed data from over 330,000 people and estimated that 43% of American adults have at least on...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 28, 2020

Climate disasters increase risks of armed conflicts: New evidence

A recent study reveals that climate disasters increase the risk of armed conflicts in vulnerable countries, where large populations, political exclusion, and low development create instability. The research combines statistical analysis with regional case studies to demonstrate the link between disaster occurrence and conflict onsets.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateApr 2, 2020

Technology use by adults with type 1 diabetes lower among African-Americans, Hispanics

A recent study found that technology use by adults with type 1 diabetes is lower among African-American and Hispanic patients. The use of continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices was significantly lower in these groups, highlighting racial disparities in access to healthcare.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateMar 31, 2020

Study reveals pre-Hispanic history, genetic changes among indigenous Mexican populations

An international team sequenced the genomes of 78 individuals from five indigenous groups in Mexico to understand the demographic history and genetic variation of pre-Hispanic populations. They identified 120,735 single nucleotide variants and found that certain genes were associated with adaptation to physical endurance and other traits.

Native Americans did not make large-scale changes to environment prior to European contact

A team of researchers from Binghamton University and Emerson College analyzed data from 14,000 years ago and found that Native Americans did not make large-scale changes to the environment. The study suggests that ancient native people thrived under changing forest conditions by adapting to them, rather than intensively managing the land.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 20, 2020

Study finds disparity in critical care deaths between non-minority and minority hospitals

A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found a significant disparity in critical care deaths between non-minority and minority hospitals. Critically ill African American patients were more likely to experience poorer outcomes, with nearly a third treated at only 14 hospitals.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

Menthol ban could increase health equity

A new study by University of Kentucky researchers suggests that banning menthol-flavored tobacco products could help address disparities in public health. The study found that policies restricting flavored tobacco products but not menthol flavors disproportionately affect African American communities.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalHealth Promotion Practice·DateJan 16, 2020

Transcendental Meditation prevents abnormal enlargement of the heart, reduces chronic heart failure

A randomized controlled study found that Transcendental Meditation prevents abnormal enlargement of the heart and reduces chronic heart failure in African Americans. The study tested 85 hypertensive participants who practiced TM or received health education controls, with significant reductions in cardiovascular mortality and morbidity.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalEthnicity & Disease·DateDec 26, 2019

Health impact of support between African American couples when dealing with racial discrimination

Racism-specific support from spouses significantly benefits African American husbands' and wives' physical and mental well-being. Despite this, Black women often bear the burden of supporting their male partners, highlighting a need for targeted resources and support networks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateDec 18, 2019