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Science News for August 8, 2007


New technology reveals seal behavior

Researchers used sensors attached to 85 seals to track their movements and collect data about the marine environment. The results show that elephant seals adopted different strategies to find food, visiting colder waters nearer the continental shelf.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2007

Diet foods for children may lead to obesity

A new report from the University of Alberta finds that diet foods for children can lead to overeating and obesity. Children who consume low-calorie versions of high-calorie foods may develop a distorted connection between taste and calorie content, leading them to overeat as they grow up.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalObesity·DateAug 8, 2007

Long heat waves boost hospital admissions

Heat wave duration significantly impacts hospital admissions for fluid and electrolyte balance disorders, acute renal failure, and breathing issues. While individual hot days may have minor effects, prolonged heat waves can lead to increased health risks, particularly among the elderly.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 8, 2007

Where's the beef? Not enough of it is on elders' plates, muscle-metabolism study suggests

A diet rich in protein may help slow the deterioration of elderly people's muscles. Researchers found that both young and elderly volunteers experienced increased muscle protein synthesis after consuming a moderate amount of protein-rich food. This is crucial for maintaining health, independence, and preventing muscle loss.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 8, 2007

Edible fish feasts beats malaria

Nile tilapia significantly reduced Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus mosquito populations by over 94%. The sustainable method provides a win-win situation for Kenyans, offering food and income while controlling malaria.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 8, 2007

To gain muscle and lose fat, drink milk: study

A study by McMaster University found that drinking milk after weightlifting increased fat loss and improved muscle gain compared to other beverages. The researchers discovered the milk group lost nearly twice as much fat and gained more muscle mass than other groups.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 8, 2007

Obesity linked to hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease

A study found that obesity is associated with higher levels of parathyroid hormone in patients with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease. Weight loss may help lower PTH levels, while other treatments could lead to weight loss. The association was strongest in patients with signs of malnutrition and inflammation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 8, 2007

Unemployment cuts

A six-year study found that higher unemployment rates were associated with more penetrating trauma admissions, while lower unemployment rates correlated with increased blunt trauma admissions. The authors suggest that socioeconomic status and demographics play a role in the types of trauma admissions.

SourceSpringer·JournalWorld Journal of Surgery·DateAug 8, 2007

Refusal of medical and surgical interventions common among chronically ill elderly

A recent Yale University study found that 16% of chronically ill elderly patients refuse recommended medical and surgical interventions. The most frequently refused treatments were cardiac catheterization and surgery, with a combined refusal rate over 10%. Patients who refused treatments often cited fear of side effects as the primary ...

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2007

Better mobility keeps seniors healthier

Researchers found that mobility is a key factor impacting quality of life for older adults. Interventions targeting mobility limitations may improve HRQOL and overall well-being among seniors at risk for disability. The study highlighted the need to develop effective interventions to preserve or improve mobility in this population.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 8, 2007