Plump people tend to hang out with others who suffer a girth crisis

By Sam Graceffo, M.D.

So much has been written about the obesity epidemic that it is difficult to unearth any new data. According to research that appeared in the journal Economic Inquiry, however, two economists have accomplished this task.

Curses, Foiled Again

Barry Cleveland Roberts, 46, was arrested for murder in Norfolk, Va., when he tried to buy a gun. Virginia State Police Sgt. Michelle Cotton said that after Roberts filled out an application at Bob’s Guns and Tackle, a background check turned up the outstanding murder warrant. Authorities were waiting for him when he returned to the store to purchase the weapon.

Fear is a strong motivator toward accomplishing successful goals

A new study reveals that risk-taking could be a family trait

Dr. Sam Graceffo

Almost every decision we make involves some roll of the dice. Some people try to keep their risk level low, such as placing their money in a certificate of deposit rather than the stock market. Others are always ready to step up to the plate, gambling they might hit a home run or strike out. At the extreme end of this continuum is the daredevil who is willing to take chances that most sensible folks consider suicidal.

BY DR. SAM GRACEFFO, M.D.

While lottery winners can buy what they want, sometimes the best things in life are free

New studies show the benefits of meditation regarding personal health

Meditation promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Yet recent evidence exists that it not only changes the way the brain functions but also promotes growth of gray matter.

Problems with nightly slumber can lead to workplace woes

BY DR. SAM GRACEFFO, M.D.

Nearly everyone has had an occasional experience with insomnia, from difficulties falling asleep to staying asleep or awakening early. These are minor annoyances that typically resolve themselves, yet some people discover that this problem can be a more serious concern.

Different notions of sexuality really matter within your gray matter

Much of the research into human sexuality has been conducted on men. As in countless other areas of investigation, women have been left behind. Northwestern University psychology professor J. Michael Bailey is attempting to rectify that situation. His study of the differences in female and male sexuality was published in the journal Psychological Science.

 

Research suggests that if rats can get hooked on sugar highs, so can humans

DR. SAM GRACEFFO

Visiting a pastoral setting can relieve

the tensions of urban hubbub

By Sam Graceffo, M.D.

For millions of years our ancestors lived in a world surrounded with trees, bushes, grasses, sky, hills, water and clean air. Today many of us exist in densely populated cities where we encounter tall buildings, billboards, asphalt roads, blaring horns and endless rows of stores and restaurants, as well as fumes from vehicles and factories.