New research from psychologists at The University of Texas at Austin found that men seeking short-term companionship were more interested in the attractiveness of a woman’s body, whereas men seeking long-term companionship were more interested in the attractiveness of a woman’s face.
In the study, 375 college students were shown an image of a person described as either a potential long-term or short-term mate, whose face and body were hidden. The participants were allowed to view either the body or face, but not both.
Seventy-five percent of men told to consider the woman a long-term mate chose to view her face. And 51 percent of men told to consider the woman a short-term companion chose to view her body.
This is likely due to the fact that a woman’s body sends off cues about her current state of fertility, whereas a woman’s face provides information about her long-term reproductive value, as previous research has found.
Women who participated in the study showed no significant difference in their interest in men’s faces or bodies when it came to selecting short-term versus long-term mates however.
“Mating is central to the engine of natural selection. This research helps clarify people’s preference,” said psychology graduate student, Jaime Confer, who co-authored the results of this research.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
News Article: Families with Dogs Have More Active Kids
A study of children from 78 primary schools in England showed that children in homes with dogs tended to be more physically active than those without dogs.
Granted, one of the researchers, Christopher Owen, admits, “It’s a bit of a chicken and egg question.” This is because the researchers are unsure whether or not this is a result of more active families simply being more likely to own dogs rather than dogs causing families and children to become more active.
The results of the study, however, are certainly worth paying attention to. Children who lived in households with dogs consistently showed higher levels of physical activity than those who did not own dogs.
“Long-term studies are needed to answer it, but it may be a bit of both (dogs causing children to become more active and families who tend to be more active being more likely to own dogs),” Owen said.
Granted, one of the researchers, Christopher Owen, admits, “It’s a bit of a chicken and egg question.” This is because the researchers are unsure whether or not this is a result of more active families simply being more likely to own dogs rather than dogs causing families and children to become more active.
The results of the study, however, are certainly worth paying attention to. Children who lived in households with dogs consistently showed higher levels of physical activity than those who did not own dogs.
“Long-term studies are needed to answer it, but it may be a bit of both (dogs causing children to become more active and families who tend to be more active being more likely to own dogs),” Owen said.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
News Article: Popularity and the Flu
A unique and novel study has linked how well-known and socially active a person is to how likely they are to catch the flu before their friends; more popular people are more likely to catch the flu first.
Nicholas Christakis, a Harvard University professor of medicine, medical sociology and sociology and James Fowler, a University of California, San Diego, professor of medical genetics and political science, used what is known as the “friendship paradox” to predict and track the spread of the flu in 2009.
“If you want a crystal ball for finding out which parts of the country are going to get the flu first, then this may be the most effective method we have now,” Fowler said.
The “friendship paradox,” introduced in 1991, states essentially that if any given person were asked to name one friend, the friend they name would rank higher in the social web than they. In other words, those who are well connected would be more likely to be named.
Christakis and Fowler put this paradox into motion by conducting research that involved 319 Harvard undergraduates who were asked to name their friends. Christakis and Fowler carefully monitored the two groups – both the “namers” and the “named,” throughout the flu season.
They found that, on average, the “named” group caught the flu about two weeks before the “namers” did. They also found that, overall, the “named” group caught the flu 46 days before the epidemic’s peak.
“We show a way you can get ahead of an epidemic of flu, or potentially anything else that spreads in networks,” Fowler said.
Nicholas Christakis, a Harvard University professor of medicine, medical sociology and sociology and James Fowler, a University of California, San Diego, professor of medical genetics and political science, used what is known as the “friendship paradox” to predict and track the spread of the flu in 2009.
“If you want a crystal ball for finding out which parts of the country are going to get the flu first, then this may be the most effective method we have now,” Fowler said.
The “friendship paradox,” introduced in 1991, states essentially that if any given person were asked to name one friend, the friend they name would rank higher in the social web than they. In other words, those who are well connected would be more likely to be named.
Christakis and Fowler put this paradox into motion by conducting research that involved 319 Harvard undergraduates who were asked to name their friends. Christakis and Fowler carefully monitored the two groups – both the “namers” and the “named,” throughout the flu season.
They found that, on average, the “named” group caught the flu about two weeks before the “namers” did. They also found that, overall, the “named” group caught the flu 46 days before the epidemic’s peak.
“We show a way you can get ahead of an epidemic of flu, or potentially anything else that spreads in networks,” Fowler said.
News Article: Ginger and Muscle Pain Relief
Cooking is far from the only thing ginger is good for, according to recent research documented in The Journal of Pain published by the American Pain Society. Research confirms that daily dosages of raw or heat-treated ginger can offer effective relief for muscle pain after strenuous exercise.
For centuries, ginger was a favorite amongst Chinese practitioners of medicine for remedying pain. And now recent studies have shown that ginger does indeed have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
In one study, daily ginger doses were shown to reduce knee pain from osteoarthritis. In another, conducted by researchers from the University of Georgia College and State University, volunteers were exposed to strenuous muscle exercises for 11 consecutive days while taking ginger supplements. In this study both heat-treated and raw ginger were shown to reduce pain intensity after such exercise by about 25 percent.
For centuries, ginger was a favorite amongst Chinese practitioners of medicine for remedying pain. And now recent studies have shown that ginger does indeed have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
In one study, daily ginger doses were shown to reduce knee pain from osteoarthritis. In another, conducted by researchers from the University of Georgia College and State University, volunteers were exposed to strenuous muscle exercises for 11 consecutive days while taking ginger supplements. In this study both heat-treated and raw ginger were shown to reduce pain intensity after such exercise by about 25 percent.
(News Article) Study Suggests a Correlation Between Early Alcohol/Tobacco Use and Delayed Puberty in Girls
A new study may have shed further light on the dangers of early alcohol and tobacco use. The study, led by Jennifer Peck, Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, suggests that early smoking and drinking in girls may delay puberty.
Data from interviews with 3,106 females from ages 11 to 21, about drug and tobacco use and sexual development, was compiled and examined. The girls and women were asked when they first started using alcohol or tobacco and when they first started noticing signs of puberty.
“What catches the eye in the study…was that girls who reported pre-pubertal alcohol use had four times the odds of late breast development compared to girls who did not use alcohol,” Peck said.
Although less than three percent of females reported substance use at early ages, those who did were more likely to experience puberty later than those who did not.
Late puberty in girls has been shown to have various negative health impacts. Girls who experience puberty past age 13 may not grow as tall as nor develop bones as strong as girls who experience earlier puberty. Late puberty in girls is also linked to increased risk of infertility, miscarriage and physiological stress.
Phyllis Ellickson, Ph.D and expert on substance abuse says the study still leaves many questions unanswered and that there is no reason to believe that early alcohol and tobacco use is a direct cause of late puberty in girls. However, Ellickson concedes, “The bottom line is that the study raises an important issue that merits rigorous examination.”
Data from interviews with 3,106 females from ages 11 to 21, about drug and tobacco use and sexual development, was compiled and examined. The girls and women were asked when they first started using alcohol or tobacco and when they first started noticing signs of puberty.
“What catches the eye in the study…was that girls who reported pre-pubertal alcohol use had four times the odds of late breast development compared to girls who did not use alcohol,” Peck said.
Although less than three percent of females reported substance use at early ages, those who did were more likely to experience puberty later than those who did not.
Late puberty in girls has been shown to have various negative health impacts. Girls who experience puberty past age 13 may not grow as tall as nor develop bones as strong as girls who experience earlier puberty. Late puberty in girls is also linked to increased risk of infertility, miscarriage and physiological stress.
Phyllis Ellickson, Ph.D and expert on substance abuse says the study still leaves many questions unanswered and that there is no reason to believe that early alcohol and tobacco use is a direct cause of late puberty in girls. However, Ellickson concedes, “The bottom line is that the study raises an important issue that merits rigorous examination.”
Events I Posted to the Website
One of my major responsibilities as Web Intern for New Jersey Life Magazine is to update the "events" section of the New Jersey Life website. I do this by reading each press release we receive and condensingg it into a brief description. These are just a few samples of the many events I have posted:
The Josh Zuckerman Band - Rock the House for the Arts, 9/24
An electric night of live music and dancing by The Josh Zuckerman Band, hosted by the Middletown Township Cultural & Arts Council (MTCAC), guarantees a great time as their soulful mix of eclectic sounds and witty lyrics appeal to all music lovers. With a diverse musical background that incorporates the band’s love for Country, Rock, and Pop, their live performances cross many musical genres. Lead Singer, Josh Zuckerman has been nominated for OMA music awards for Outstanding Songwriter of the Year and Outstanding Debut Male. Funds raised by the special performance will support the MTCAC’s Seventh Annual Achievement in the Arts Scholarship Program, celebrating the artistic talents of outstanding Middletown High School seniors. In addition to high school scholarships, the MTCAC offers opportunities for financially disadvantaged families to attend its popular Summer Arts Camps. Admission is $10 per adult and $7 for Middletown Arts Center members. The performance begins at 8 p.m. Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church Street, Middletown, call 732.706.4100 to pre-register by credit card; space is limited, middletownarts.org.
Back-to-School, Back-to-Style - Salon Rouge’s Back-to-School Trunk Show, 9/30
For those students looking to turn heads as they walk into the classroom, S alon Rouge is teaming up with Rack & Roll Clothing Company, Monalda4 and Pretty Sweet Bakery, to host its Back-to-Style Trunk Show. Rack & Roll Clothing Company will be offering trendy jeans, knit tops, dresses and t-shirts for fall. Monalda4 will be there to fulfill all hair accessory needs and will be offering a back-to-school hair accessory sale. Pretty Sweet Bakery will also be there with after-school snacks to satisfy each guest’s sweet tooth. The salon will also offer complimentary hair conditioning treatments and $10 manicures. The Trunk Show will last from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 2110 Marlton Pike E # 6, Cherry Hill, 856.424.3611, salonrouge.com.
Hoda Kotb: “How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee,” 10/14
Today Show anchor, Hoda Kotb, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, shares and illustrates, with humor and grace, how crisis can be turned into blessing. This event will be presented by Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center and Friends’ Health Connection. Kotb is a two-year breast cancer survivor and has been co-host of NBC’s Today Show alongside Kathie Lee Gifford since its 2007 debut. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink for breast cancer awareness. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is $35 per person and includes a copy of Hoda’s new book. To register visit friendshealthconnection.org or call 800.483.7436. Hunterdon Center Regional High School 84 Route 31, Flemington.
2010 Groove Conference – Live Your Best Life!, 10/23
This ladies-only event, presented by the Glam Squad, an organization for the empowerment of women and girls, will be an exciting must-attend for women of all stages of life. The presentation is aimed towards educating, entertaining, and enlightening women to find their happiness and live their best lives. The Groove Conference will help women essentially get their "groove" back and answer the age-old question "what do women want?" NY Times Bestselling Author Michelle Janine Robinson will read from her newest novel and hold an exclusive book signing. Workshops will cover subjects such as finding as healthy work/life balance, starting your own business, sexual health, financial empowerment, and wellness and nutrition. Motivational speaker Toni Coleman-Brown will serve as Keynote Speaker at a power-packed luncheon. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. $65 Early Bird Rate and $75 Regular Rate. Registration information can be found at groovebyglamsquad.eventbrite.com/. Comfort Inn and Suites, Bethlehem, PA.
Trump Taj Mahal 2nd Annual “Pink Angels” Night, 10/22
Enjoy an evening of fun inside of the Ego Bar and Lounge to benefit the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Fund. Guests are encouraged to wear pink, enjoy pink specialty drinks and hors d’oeuvres. The evening will be highlighted by a special appearance by the Almost Angels band. Guests can also bid on exciting silent auction items and participate in the “Pinkjack” tournament. The evening will be hosted by area radio celebrities 95.1 WAYV’s Diane Mitchell and 100.7 WZXL’s Michael James, as well as 102.9 WMGK’s Debbie Calton. 6- 10 PM. Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, 609.449.6437, trumptaj.com/
Atlantic in the 1920s: Jazz Concert and Lecture, 10/23
In continued celebration of the HBO series, ‘Boardwalk Empire,' The Atlantic City Free Public Library will present a special jazz concert and lecture. The concert will be conudcted by The Shenole Latimer Quartet. The group will also review the history of jazz, placing a special emphasis on the ’20s. To learn more about Latimer visit shenolelatimer.com. 2 PM. One North Tennessee Ave., Atlantic City, 609.345.2269, ext. 3112, acfpl.org/
Meet the Designers Trunk Show, 11/12-13
Three world famous designers will be featured at Leonardo Jewelers Trunk Show – Alex Sepkus, Rodney Rayner and Carlo Antonini. Visitors will get to see expansive jewelry collections and meet the artists that create the exquisite pieces. To RSVP visit leonardojewelers.com/rsvp.html. 2PM – 8PM on 11/12, 11AM to 4PM, 11/13. 35 E Front St, Red Bank.
Dining for a Change with Dina Manzo of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” 11/1
Meet and greet “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” former star, Dina Manzo for wine tasting, food, entertainment and more. And all for a great cause too, as all proceeds will be donated to the Ladybug Foundation, an organization whose mission is to enrich the lives of children with life threatening conditions, and Dining for a Change. 7PM to 10PM, Tickets - $75 each, must be purchased in advance at IlluminationPR.com. Da Vinci’s Restaurant, 800 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY, 914.843.1434, projectladybug.org/
The Josh Zuckerman Band - Rock the House for the Arts, 9/24
An electric night of live music and dancing by The Josh Zuckerman Band, hosted by the Middletown Township Cultural & Arts Council (MTCAC), guarantees a great time as their soulful mix of eclectic sounds and witty lyrics appeal to all music lovers. With a diverse musical background that incorporates the band’s love for Country, Rock, and Pop, their live performances cross many musical genres. Lead Singer, Josh Zuckerman has been nominated for OMA music awards for Outstanding Songwriter of the Year and Outstanding Debut Male. Funds raised by the special performance will support the MTCAC’s Seventh Annual Achievement in the Arts Scholarship Program, celebrating the artistic talents of outstanding Middletown High School seniors. In addition to high school scholarships, the MTCAC offers opportunities for financially disadvantaged families to attend its popular Summer Arts Camps. Admission is $10 per adult and $7 for Middletown Arts Center members. The performance begins at 8 p.m. Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church Street, Middletown, call 732.706.4100 to pre-register by credit card; space is limited, middletownarts.org.
Back-to-School, Back-to-Style - Salon Rouge’s Back-to-School Trunk Show, 9/30
For those students looking to turn heads as they walk into the classroom, S alon Rouge is teaming up with Rack & Roll Clothing Company, Monalda4 and Pretty Sweet Bakery, to host its Back-to-Style Trunk Show. Rack & Roll Clothing Company will be offering trendy jeans, knit tops, dresses and t-shirts for fall. Monalda4 will be there to fulfill all hair accessory needs and will be offering a back-to-school hair accessory sale. Pretty Sweet Bakery will also be there with after-school snacks to satisfy each guest’s sweet tooth. The salon will also offer complimentary hair conditioning treatments and $10 manicures. The Trunk Show will last from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 2110 Marlton Pike E # 6, Cherry Hill, 856.424.3611, salonrouge.com.
Hoda Kotb: “How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee,” 10/14
Today Show anchor, Hoda Kotb, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, shares and illustrates, with humor and grace, how crisis can be turned into blessing. This event will be presented by Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center and Friends’ Health Connection. Kotb is a two-year breast cancer survivor and has been co-host of NBC’s Today Show alongside Kathie Lee Gifford since its 2007 debut. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink for breast cancer awareness. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is $35 per person and includes a copy of Hoda’s new book. To register visit friendshealthconnection.org or call 800.483.7436. Hunterdon Center Regional High School 84 Route 31, Flemington.
2010 Groove Conference – Live Your Best Life!, 10/23
This ladies-only event, presented by the Glam Squad, an organization for the empowerment of women and girls, will be an exciting must-attend for women of all stages of life. The presentation is aimed towards educating, entertaining, and enlightening women to find their happiness and live their best lives. The Groove Conference will help women essentially get their "groove" back and answer the age-old question "what do women want?" NY Times Bestselling Author Michelle Janine Robinson will read from her newest novel and hold an exclusive book signing. Workshops will cover subjects such as finding as healthy work/life balance, starting your own business, sexual health, financial empowerment, and wellness and nutrition. Motivational speaker Toni Coleman-Brown will serve as Keynote Speaker at a power-packed luncheon. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. $65 Early Bird Rate and $75 Regular Rate. Registration information can be found at groovebyglamsquad.eventbrite.com/. Comfort Inn and Suites, Bethlehem, PA.
Trump Taj Mahal 2nd Annual “Pink Angels” Night, 10/22
Enjoy an evening of fun inside of the Ego Bar and Lounge to benefit the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Fund. Guests are encouraged to wear pink, enjoy pink specialty drinks and hors d’oeuvres. The evening will be highlighted by a special appearance by the Almost Angels band. Guests can also bid on exciting silent auction items and participate in the “Pinkjack” tournament. The evening will be hosted by area radio celebrities 95.1 WAYV’s Diane Mitchell and 100.7 WZXL’s Michael James, as well as 102.9 WMGK’s Debbie Calton. 6- 10 PM. Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, 609.449.6437, trumptaj.com/
Atlantic in the 1920s: Jazz Concert and Lecture, 10/23
In continued celebration of the HBO series, ‘Boardwalk Empire,' The Atlantic City Free Public Library will present a special jazz concert and lecture. The concert will be conudcted by The Shenole Latimer Quartet. The group will also review the history of jazz, placing a special emphasis on the ’20s. To learn more about Latimer visit shenolelatimer.com. 2 PM. One North Tennessee Ave., Atlantic City, 609.345.2269, ext. 3112, acfpl.org/
Meet the Designers Trunk Show, 11/12-13
Three world famous designers will be featured at Leonardo Jewelers Trunk Show – Alex Sepkus, Rodney Rayner and Carlo Antonini. Visitors will get to see expansive jewelry collections and meet the artists that create the exquisite pieces. To RSVP visit leonardojewelers.com/rsvp.html. 2PM – 8PM on 11/12, 11AM to 4PM, 11/13. 35 E Front St, Red Bank.
Dining for a Change with Dina Manzo of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” 11/1
Meet and greet “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” former star, Dina Manzo for wine tasting, food, entertainment and more. And all for a great cause too, as all proceeds will be donated to the Ladybug Foundation, an organization whose mission is to enrich the lives of children with life threatening conditions, and Dining for a Change. 7PM to 10PM, Tickets - $75 each, must be purchased in advance at IlluminationPR.com. Da Vinci’s Restaurant, 800 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY, 914.843.1434, projectladybug.org/
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