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The debate over ecstasy continues

A new study published in Addiction journal reveals that even occasional ecstasy use can lead to memory impairments, particularly with damage to the hippocampus. The research found that participants who took ten or more pills over their first year showed decreased function of immediate and short-term memory.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateJul 25, 2012

When to rein in the stock market

A new MSU study suggests that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) should intervene in the stock market only when external financial disruptions make it difficult for large shareholders to fend off speculators. The study finds that such interventions are rare and should be temporary.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateJul 5, 2012

First Nations and low-income children visit emergency departments more often for mental health care

A study found that First Nations children and those from families receiving government subsidies had significantly more visits to emergency departments for mental health crises. These visits were often due to anxiety- or stress-related disorders, emotional or behavioural issues from substance abuse, or unspecific diagnoses.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 11, 2012

US citizenship may be determined at random

A Michigan State University researcher found that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) test is not reliable in measuring civics knowledge. The test questions are randomly selected from a pool of 100, but no data has been released on their reliability or validity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLanguage Assessment Quarterly·DateMar 11, 2012

Huge potential of NHS junior doctors being ignored

A regional survey of 1500 NHS junior doctors found that they are willing and able to contribute to improving health services, but lack support and recognition. The survey results highlight the need for the government and NHS organisations to value and engage junior doctors to optimise organisational performance.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateJan 26, 2012

Feeding the five thousand -- or was it three?

Researchers claim most crowd estimations are unreliable due to political bias and have devised new methods for estimating static and mobile crowds with reduced margin of error. The 'area x density' method for static crowds and the 'two-inspection-point' method for mobile crowds can provide more accurate estimates

SourceWiley·JournalSignificance·DateAug 24, 2011

ONR technology to aid in war on drugs

The Joint Interagency Task Force South is installing a new software technology developed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) to eliminate illegal drug trafficking. The Command and Control Rapid Prototype Continuum (C2RPC) system provides continuous rapid delivery of warfighter capability to support time-sensitive decision making.

Pakistan prepares to abolish Ministry of Health

Pakistani public health experts express shock and dismay at the government's plan to abolish the Ministry of Health. The move is seen as a threat to national health functions and capacity, particularly in light of ongoing challenges such as polio eradication and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 5, 2011

This year's Johan Skytte Prize winners announced

Ronald Inglehart and Pippa Norris awarded for their systematic investigation into human values and value change impacting political behavior, with a focus on religion, gender equality, and global media influence. The prize recognizes their groundbreaking work in highlighting the importance of citizens' values in shaping societal life.

Failure to tackle UK's alcohol problem could see many thousands of extra liver deaths than in other European countries

The UK's failure to address its alcohol problem could result in a significant increase in liver deaths, with the country facing a projected 77,000 excess deaths over 20 years if it doesn't adopt effective policies. The authors argue that increasing alcohol quality and limiting availability of cheap products can help reduce death rates.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 20, 2011

The end of our national health service

The Lancet Editorial warns that the UK government's Health and Social Care Bill will fundamentally change the National Health Service (NHS), shifting from a national to individualized care model. The proposed reforms have sparked fears about patient outcomes, access to healthcare, and the overall future of the NHS.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 27, 2011

Governments worldwide censor Web content

A new study analyzes where and how governments worldwide censor the web, revealing stark differences in levels of control. The analysis shows that countries with democratic systems have minimal or no censorship, while authoritarian regimes impose extensive restrictions.

SourceSpringer·JournalGeoJournal·DateDec 1, 2010

New study links political connections to corporate corruption

A new study from the journal Financial Management found that politically connected firms enjoy higher leverage, lower taxes, and regulatory protection. This study highlights the benefits of having government ties for corporate success, suggesting distortions in public resource allocation are common globally.

SourceWiley·JournalFinancial Management·DateSep 21, 2010

Pilot safety protocol could help dentists reduce errors

A pilot-dentist duo proposes adapting airline crew resource management principles to dental offices, aiming to reduce human errors and improve patient safety. By implementing standardized safety procedures and empowering team members with CRM checklists, dentists can significantly reduce complications and deaths in surgical settings.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateAug 2, 2010

International formula milk marketing code mired in 3 decades of dispute

A child nutrition expert argues that a global code for formula milk marketing has been mired in disputes since its adoption in 1981. The lack of effective national and international governance has hindered efforts to improve maternal, infant, and child nutrition. Effective governance is now needed to replace bitter hostilities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJul 26, 2010

President of India to inaugurate ICM 2010

The President of India will inaugurate the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) 2010 in Hyderabad, awarding Fields Medal and other prestigious prizes. The ICM is a periodic event bringing together 3000 mathematicians from around the world, marking a significant recognition of India's growing role in mathematics.

SourceICM2010·DateJul 8, 2010