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Science News for June 14, 1999


Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to present first documentation of man-made chemical contaminants in the amniotic fluid of unborn babies

A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has detected and measured contaminants from certain pesticides and industrial chemicals in the amniotic fluid of unborn babies. DDE levels were found in 30% of the population, ranging from 0.1 to 0.63 nanograms per milliliter, which is comparable to natural hormone levels.

Preschoolers who sleep less have more behavior problems

A study of 510 preschool children found that those sleeping less than 10 hours a day are at risk for increased behavioral problems, such as oppositional behavior and aggression. The relationship between sleep and behavior problems is complex, with possible interaction effects between variables like temperament and parenting.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateJun 14, 1999

Computer matches CT scans to disease database

A computerized system, developed by Purdue University engineers, matches patient CT scans with images in a large data base of previous patients' scans. This allows less-skilled medical personnel to aid in diagnoses by reducing the need for manual comparisons.

SourcePurdue University·JournalComputer Vision and Image Understanding·DateJun 14, 1999