July 7, 2006

Study Finds Breast Milk Helps Preemies

A study found that extremely premature infants who were fed breast milk in the hospital did better on tests of mental development later in life than others fed only formula. The more breast milk the babies consumed, the better they did on the tests. Researchers believe this is because ingredients in breast milk, particularly fatty acids, aid in brain development. Breast milk had no effect on rates of cerebral palsy, blindness or hearing problems.

cayuse

DEFINITION: (noun) A horse, especially an Indian pony. SYNONYMS: Indian pony. USAGE: The surveyor crossed Washington riding a cayuse native to the region.

Marc Chagall

Chagall was a Belarusian painter often associated with the Surrealist movement. He began studying painting in 1906 and soon began assimilating elements of cubism into his expressionistic style. He took inspiration from Russian folk-life and portrayed many Biblical themes reflecting his Jewish heritage. He was particularly fond of animal and flower symbols. Among his works are 2 murals designed for the New York City Metropolitan Opera House. Which popular musician was inspired by Chagall's work?

Terrorist Bombings in London

On July 7, 2005, four bombs struck the London public transportation system during the morning rush hour, killing 56 people, including four of the perpetrators, and injuring 700. The incident was the deadliest single act of terrorism in the United Kingdom since the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, which killed 270 people. Who claimed responsibility for the attacks?

Art Deco

Art deco is a style of design that originated in French luxury goods shortly before WWI and became internationally popular during the 1920s and 30s. Its name derives from the 1925 Paris Exposition of Decorative Arts, where the style reached its apex. Art deco is characterized by long, thin forms, curving surfaces, and geometric patterning. Works executed in the art deco style range from skyscrapers and ocean liners to toasters. What are a few architectural examples of the art deco style?