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Science News Archive 2003 - Page 43


Page 43 of 108

Childhood leukemia survivors not receiving radiation have same life expectancy as general population

A long-term follow-up study of childhood ALL survivors found that those who did not receive brain radiation had comparable survival rates, employment, and marital rates to the general population. However, those who received brain radiation had a slight increase in death rate due to second cancer and higher unemployment rates.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 13, 2003

Natural hormone could reverse heart damage

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that altering leptin's signaling pathway can minimize or even reverse left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition causing the heart to expand and stiffen. Leptin infusions led to weight loss and improved heart function in mice with obesity, while caloric restriction had no effect.

Study calls for major reforms in marketing of ephedra

A study found that 41% of web sites selling ephedra products failed to disclose potential adverse effects or contraindications, while 53% did not reveal the dosage of ephedra alkaloids. The authors recommend that makers of dietary supplements containing ephedra should voluntarily disclose pertinent information about the supplements.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 12, 2003

Scientists develop greater accuracy in recording baby’s heart rates in the womb

Researchers have developed a new test that can accurately record baby's heart rates in the womb in just 20 minutes, allowing doctors to monitor health and detect potential arrhythmias. The technique uses sophisticated filtering and signal processing technologies to pick out the baby's heart signal from background interference.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateAug 11, 2003

Elementary schools need a lesson in bathroom breaks

A University of Iowa Health Care study found that public elementary school teachers often restrict young students' access to the bathroom, despite it being a common issue. Teachers with more experience were better equipped to recognize bladder problems and involved school nurses in addressing them.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 11, 2003

Weizmann Institute scientists report why taste and smell differ among individuals

Weizmann Institute scientists found that around 50 genes are optional, affecting a person's unique pattern of active olfactory receptors. This high level of genetic variation impacts how thousands of aromas and flavors are perceived. The study also shows varying levels of obliteration among different ethnic groups.

UCSD biologists discover key step for 'designer plants' that could clean up heavy metals

Researchers at UCSD have discovered a chemical that allows plants to transport phytochelatins from roots to stems and leaves, enabling them to detoxify heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. This finding brings bioremediation, using plants to clean up contaminated soil, closer to reality.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2003