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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 28


Page 28 of 333

Risk of childhood obesity can be predicted at birth

Researchers developed a simple formula to predict a child's likelihood of becoming obese in childhood based on their birth weight, parents' body mass index, household size, mother's professional status, and smoking during pregnancy. The formula proved accurate in predicting obesity risk in infants born in Finland and other countries.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 28, 2012

Skeletons in cave reveal Mediterranean secrets

Researchers discovered that modern humans first settled in Sicily around the time of the last ice age, with a diet consisting mainly of terrestrial animals. Genetic analysis revealed the peopling of Sicily occurred at 19,000-26,500 years ago, when sea levels were low enough to expose a land bridge.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 28, 2012

The music of the silks

Researchers at MIT have created new materials inspired by spider silk and music, offering a potential solution for designing new biosynthetic materials. By analyzing the structural elements of music, they were able to predict the properties of new protein-based fibers, leading to the creation of stronger and more flexible materials.

Implantable silk optics multi-task in the body

The devices offer significant improvement in tissue imaging while simultaneously enabling photo thermal therapy, administering drugs and monitoring drug delivery. The biodegradable and biocompatible micro-mirrors dissolve harmlessly at predetermined rates, requiring no surgery to remove them.

SourceTufts University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2012

Voter polls portend conflict between Obama administration and Republican leaders over ACA

A recent analysis of voter polls indicates that most Obama supporters favor implementing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and want to ensure continued federal efforts to provide health insurance coverage. However, this sentiment contrasts with views from Republican voters, who are more likely to oppose parts of the ACA's implementation.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 28, 2012

Combining better physical fitness and statins significantly improves survival in people with unhealthy blood fat or cholesterol levels

A recent study published in The Lancet found that combining better physical fitness and statins significantly improves survival in people with unhealthy blood fat or cholesterol levels. Moderate intensity physical activity can be achieved through walking, gardening, and gym classes, making it a feasible option for many middle-aged adul...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 27, 2012

Tracking pollution from outer space

A Tel Aviv University team uses NASA satellites to measure pollution hovering over world's megacities, tracking pollution trends for 189 megacities. The method provides standardized global testing of pollution levels, holding countries accountable for their emissions and encouraging environmentally friendly practices.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Climate Change·DateNov 27, 2012

The Journal of Nursing Research receives impact factor ranking

The Journal of Nursing Research has achieved an initial Impact Factor of 0.688 and a ranking of 73 out of 97 journals in the Nursing Science Category, and 70 out of 95 journals in the Social Science Category. This recognition indicates that the journal produces high-quality research contributing to the science of healthcare and nursing.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Nursing Research·DateNov 27, 2012

Safer spinach? Scientist's technique dramatically reduces E. coli numbers

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a method that drastically reduces E. coli numbers on spinach leaves by over 99.9%. The technique combines continuous ultrasound treatment with chlorine washing, achieving a four-log reduction in pathogenic bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalInnovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies·DateNov 27, 2012