(NNPA)—Using MRIs to document and study the brains of 125 university students in London, researchers have linked the size of specific areas of the brain to the size of a person’s virtual and real social networks.

In the article published last month in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, researchers claim that “findings demonstrate that the size of an individual’s online social network is closely linked to focal brain structure implicated in social cognition.”

This third segment of an eight-part series on health disparities in the Pittsburgh region is a collaboration among the New Pittsburgh Courier, Community PARTners (a core service of the University of Pittsburgh’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute—CTSI) and the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. Pitt School of Medicine assistant professor Michael Yonas, DrPH, sat down with Esther Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League, to talk about this month’s focus on diabetes in Allegheny County.

ESTHER BUSH

MY: Thank you for making this partnership with the New Pittsburgh Courier and CTSI possible. This month’s segment on diabetes awareness is so important. We know that exercising and eating well can help prevent type 2 diabetes, but the rates of diabetes are increasing in the African American community. Why do you think this is the case?

Dr. Jeanette South-Paul’s unfailing fiery passion and undying commitment to making sure that the medical needs of the underserved are met, made her the perfect candidate for the Gertrude Labowitz Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Dr. South-Paul was chosen for the award because she has been a consistent voice for the underserved—including the disabled community—ensuring that the message of full inclusion, trust and respect are heard. This has directly affected and enhanced the quality of life for all people, especially those who are underserved,” said Melva Ledbetter, Chief Professional Officer of the United Cerebral Palsy Community Living and Support Services.

DR. JEANETTE SOUTH-PAUL with UCP/CLASS Board Members Thomas Motley and Dr. Grady Roberts Jr.

Greater Pittsburgh has a wealth of resources if you’re looking for more information about diabetes, its prevention or health and wellness programs. The following list is just a starting point:

THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF ­AGRICULTURE launched a new guide to healthful eating this year, and the guide and other helpful information can be found at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.