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New research shows room for improvement in health news

Researchers found that media reports on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) were often inaccurate or incomplete, lacking information on side-effects and costs. The study suggests clearer communication between scientists and journalists is crucial for accurate news reports.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 10, 2008

Neglected tropical diseases rarely make the headlines

A new study found that only 113 articles about neglected tropical diseases were published in leading international media from 2003 to 2007. This lack of coverage is particularly concerning given the significant burden of NTDs on public health, including widespread illness, poverty, and suffering.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 13, 2008

LSU spotlights strong African American marriages

Research by Louisiana State University sheds light on positive, long-lasting African American marriages, challenging the 'deficit perspective' that emphasizes problems. The study reveals four key themes: overcoming external challenges, resolving intramarital conflict, and maintaining unity through shared values.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalFamily Relations·DateApr 3, 2008

McDonald and SNO team win Benjamin Franklin Medal

Art McDonald and his SNO team have won the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Physics for their discovery that neutrinos change flavour and have mass, modifying the Standard Model of particle physics. The award recognizes their outstanding scientific achievement in understanding the nature of matter and the universe.

Does television news turn people off politics?

A study of TV news reports in Britain and US reveals that polls are rarely used to represent public opinion, instead relying on unverified claims and non-ideological citizen representations. This may lead to a disengaged citizenry, as politicians are often left to offer solutions without public input.

Think political news is biased? Depends who you ask

A new study by Ohio State University found that Republicans who frequently engage in political debates with others who share their views tend to have a more balanced perception of media bias. In contrast, Democrats' perceptions of media bias do not differ based on who they talk to. The study suggests that conversational contacts influe...

SourceOhio State University·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateApr 16, 2003

Public strong on opinions – weaker on knowledge

A study by Cardiff University found that the British public is strong on opinions about scientific issues like climate change and biotechnology but weak on actual knowledge. The survey revealed that people's trust in sources like scientists and media outlets is low, suggesting a need for more effective communication strategies.

Dartmouth researchers urge caution in communicating results to public

A recent study led to misleading reports due to incorrect presentation of data, leading the researchers to urge for improved communication of research findings to the public. They suggest using absolute event rates, presenting risk ratios instead of odds ratios, and avoiding overgeneralization to provide realistic expectations.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 21, 1999

News Tips Thursday, March 25, 1999

A new study from Boston University suggests that moderate alcohol consumption up to 20 grams/day may not raise PAI-1 levels; instead, higher levels are associated with a modest increase. The findings suggest that moderate drinking may have beneficial effects on PAI-1 or at least no harm.