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Do electronic health records help or hinder medical education?

A recent PLOS Medicine study examines the effects of electronic health records (EHRs) on medical education. Two groups of researchers present contrasting views: one arguing that EHRs may erode physician education due to potential risks, while another highlights opportunities for enhanced clinical skills and patient communication.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 11, 2009

Grand prizes might help induce sports 'hot streaks'

A forthcoming study by North Carolina State University economists found that players who perform well early in the season have an incentive to maintain their high level of performance into the middle part of the season. This is because they are competing for a top-30 finish and a spot in the Tour Championship, which guarantees them mon...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Sports Economics·DateMar 17, 2009

Are men hardwired to overspend?

A University of Michigan researcher found that men who overspend on consumer goods have higher mating intentions and past success in attracting mates. The study suggests an evolutionary link between financial consumption and mating behavior, with men competing for status and resources to attract partners.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateDec 8, 2008

Another bailout? Government pension insurer could be next, expert says

The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp., which insures pensions of 44 million American workers and retirees, is facing a $14 billion shortfall that could soar as the economy shutters more businesses. Expert Jeffrey R. Brown predicts a government fix similar to the recent Wall Street bailout as the likely solution.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Economic Perspectives·DateOct 15, 2008

Incentives for carbon sequestration may not protect species

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that paying rural landowners in Oregon to protect at-risk animals may not lead to increased carbon sequestration. In fact, conservation efforts may even harm species if they prioritize tree and plant growth over animal protection.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2008

Science reviewer calls anti-environmental book 'dangerous' and 'misguided'

A science reviewer strongly criticizes Bjørn Lomborg's book, arguing that it gives little recognition to modern environmental professionals and fails to make the connection between new policies and environmental advances. The reviewer highlights the importance of economic incentives, such as those contained within the Kyoto Protocol, i...

Are we breeding a culture of obesity?

The number of obese Canadian children has surpassed double since 1981, according to a study. The poor dietary habits learned in childhood come home to roost later in life, and physical inactivity is a major contributor to healthcare costs, with reducing it by just 10% potentially saving $150 million annually.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 26, 2000