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Science News for November 13, 2003


Medium-firm mattresses best for low back pain

A study published in The Lancet found that medium-firm mattresses can significantly improve symptoms of low back pain, including reductions in pain while lying down and getting out of bed. Participants who used medium-firm mattresses reported twice the improvements compared to those using firm mattresses.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 13, 2003

Epstein-Barr virus contributes to Burkitt's lymphoma

Researchers found that a specific protein expressed by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is crucial for tumor cell proliferation and survival in Burkitt's lymphoma. Developing small molecules that target this protein could lead to effective therapies with minimal side effects, offering hope for patients with EBV-associated tumors.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2003

Patients' anaesthesia concerns reviewed

Despite improvements in reported pain after surgery, patients continue to express concerns about anaesthesia, including fear of not waking up or experiencing nausea and vomiting. The authors note that developments in technology and training have improved anaesthetic practice, but challenges remain to improve patient comfort.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 13, 2003

Thought for food

A recent study published in The Lancet found that global obesity rates among children have more than doubled between 1975 and 2003. This significant increase poses serious health risks for the millions of children affected by childhood obesity worldwide.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 13, 2003

Investigational cancer drug prevents abnormal brain growth, reverses seizures in lab mice

A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the anti-cancer drug CCI-779 can prevent abnormal brain growth and reverse seizures in lab mice lacking the Pten gene. The researchers used a mouse model to demonstrate that mTor plays multiple roles in the brain, driving cell growth and signaling pathways.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2003