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Science News for May 25, 2012


Hazelnuts improve infant formula

Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed a new infant formula using hazelnut oil that better mimics the structure of human milk. This design improves the digestion and absorption of essential fatty acids, including DHA and ARA, which are crucial for infant development.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMay 25, 2012

Early physical therapist treatment associated with reduced risk of healthcare utilization and reduced overall healthcare costs

A study found that early physical therapist treatment for low back pain was associated with reduced risk of subsequent healthcare utilization and lower overall healthcare costs. Patients who received early care from a physical therapist had lower rates of surgery, injections, and opioid use, as well as reduced medical costs.

Phone contact with nurses linked with better outcomes for women with gestational diabetes

Women referred to the telephone-based nurse management program had a lower risk of high baby birth weight and were more likely to have postpartum glucose testing, leading to earlier identification and management of postpartum glucose intolerance or diabetes. The study suggests that this program can improve outcomes for women with gesta...

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 25, 2012

Most occupational injury and illness costs are paid by the government and private payers

Workers' compensation insurance is not used enough to cover workplace illnesses and injuries. Nearly 80% of these costs are paid by employer-provided health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and other disability funds. The resulting low premiums provide little incentive for companies to promote workplace safety.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMay 25, 2012

Tongue analysis software uses ancient Chinese medicine to warn of disease

Researchers developed a computer software that combines ancient practices with modern medicine by analyzing images of the tongue, indicating potential health issues. The software distinguishes between tongues showing signs of hot or cold zheng, which is associated with various symptoms such as fever, chills and loose stool.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEvidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateMay 25, 2012

Wells Fargo fosters environmental conservation through University of Miami's RJD program

The University of Miami's R.J. Dunlap Marine Conservation Program will receive a $40,000 grant from Wells Fargo to enhance marine conservation science education and research. The program aims to inspire youth to learn STEM skills and adopt conservation attitudes, as well as raise awareness about marine ecology and shark species.

A mating dance with Popeye arms

A research team at Bielefeld University is studying how female locusts prefer males with the most powerful swellings on their front legs. The study aims to understand the evolution of sexual ornaments and their role in mate selection, which may be linked to an animal's health.

Copy of the genetic makeup travels in a protein suitcase

Researchers at the University of Bonn have visualized the transport of messenger RNA from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm using a highly sensitive light microscope. The study reveals that the process involves brief collisions with the nuclear membrane and quality control checks, resulting in only about every fourth successful export.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2012