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'Democratic peace' may not prevent international conflict

Researchers at Ohio State University challenge the widely-held theory that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other. Their new technique and model accurately predicted international conflict five and ten years in advance, outperforming existing models. The study highlights the importance of economic trade relationships ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2015

Statistical analysis reveals Mexican drug war increased homicide rates

A new statistical analysis reveals that the Mexican government's war against drugs increased the average murder rate in regions subjected to military-style interventions. The study found an average increase of nearly 11 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants across 18 affected regions, with some experiencing a significant reduction and othe...

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalThe American Statistician·DateApr 2, 2015

Complete camel skeleton unearthed in Austria

Archaeologists uncovered a complete camel skeleton in Tulln, Austria, dating back to the 17th century, shedding light on camel use in Central Europe. The hybrid camel, with a dromedary mother and Bactrian father, was likely used for military transportation, not food.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 1, 2015

Life-saving treatments learned from war being missed

Institutions like King's College London are reviewing military medical advancements to improve civilian healthcare, focusing on low-resource regions where life-saving treatments can be adapted and implemented. The review calls for research and policy changes to transfer these innovations.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2015

Does a competent leader make a good friend?

Research by Lasse Laustsen and Michael Bang Petersen suggests that competent leaders are often preferred for leadership roles but not necessarily as friends. In contrast, non-dominant individuals with cooperative traits are often chosen as friends regardless of political ideology or social conflict context.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateFeb 10, 2015

How to protect health workers in conflicts and crisis

Researchers conducted life history interviews with 26 health workers who lived through conflict in Northern Uganda, revealing their resilience and coping mechanisms. The study proposes solutions to protect and motivate health workers during and after crises, including community support, formal promotion, and regular pay.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalHealth Policy and Planning·DateOct 1, 2014

Saddam Hussein -- a sincere dictator?

A new study analyzing Saddam Hussein's private transcripts reveals a striking similarity between his public and private beliefs on international affairs. The researchers found that while public speeches were often straightforward, private discussions exhibited more complexity and nuanced views, particularly on the US, Iran, and Israel.

SourceSAGE·JournalResearch & Politics·DateAug 28, 2014

The art and science of cognitive rehabilitation therapy

Researchers explore different models of recovery after brain injury, highlighting the importance of combining clinical intuition with CRT theory. Studies also investigate the impact of pediatric CRT on intellectual functioning and nonverbal communication processing after TBI.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateFeb 3, 2014

Lighting up in uniform

A new study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that smoking behavior in soldiers is linked to war zone stress and unit support. The study, which examined data from over 1,000 US Army soldiers, found that soldiers who started smoking while in war zones were more likely to consume alcohol and hold junior ranks.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateJan 29, 2014

Surviving -- then thriving

A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that second-generation Holocaust survivors had consistently lower levels of post-traumatic growth than non-second generation survivors, contrary to expectations. The researchers suggest that this may be due to inherited trauma and guilt from their parents' experience.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateOct 29, 2013

The Elizabethan war that won $300,000

Ruth Canning's research project explores the Nine Years' War, a 400-year-old conflict that shaped Ireland's identity and continues to influence its culture today. The grant will fuel her three-year study of this overlooked war, which could lead to a more nuanced understanding of present-day situations.

Change, conflict cue memories of life's milestones: Study

A study by Connie Svob and Norman Brown found that people are more likely to remember transitional moments from their life stories, such as promotions or pets. The researchers identified distinct elements or life markers that separated the two groups of participants, suggesting a positive predisposition to detect and remember change.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 29, 2013

The soldier as sexual aggressor

A Norwegian study examines the cases of soldiers convicted for sexual violence during the Bosnian War, highlighting three categories of perpetrators: romantic heroes, opportunists, and repentant sinners. The research emphasizes the importance of clear training and leadership to prevent such behavior.

SourceThe Research Council of Norway·JournalGlobal Responsibility to Protect·DateFeb 26, 2013