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Science News Archive December 2008 - Page 13


Page 13 of 21

Novel technique for fluorescence tomography of tumors in living animals

Researchers developed a novel technique called Early Photon Tomography (EPT) to image lung tumors in living mice. EPT combines early arriving photons with tomographic principles, resulting in sharper and more accurate images compared to conventional methods.

Government survey shows 38 percent of adults and 12 percent of children use complementary and alternative medicine

A recent government survey reveals that 38 percent of U.S. adults and 12 percent of children use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for various health issues. CAM therapies commonly used by adults include herbal supplements, meditation, chiropractic, and acupuncture, while children often rely on nonvitamin, nonmineral product...

Hot drinks help fight cold and flu

New research by Cardiff University's Common Cold Centre found that hot fruit cordial provides immediate relief from cold symptoms. The study of 30 volunteers with common cold symptoms showed a 'hot' version of the drink to be effective in reducing symptoms such as runny nose and cough.

SourceCardiff University·JournalJournal of Rhinology·DateDec 10, 2008

Our DNA may set AIDS time bomb ticking

A study of 1833 HIV patients found that specific mitochondrial DNA genotypes accelerate AIDS development, while others delay it. This suggests that genetic tests could provide accurate prognoses and guide early treatment initiation.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateDec 10, 2008

Oral cancer patients could be diagnosed earlier

The majority of oral cancers are found late, causing high mortality rates, but early diagnosis improves survivability to 95% and reduces morbidity. Prosthodontists must change their practice paradigm by performing regular oral cancer screening examinations on all patients.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Prosthodontics·DateDec 10, 2008

Statin warning for pregnant women

New research from the University of Manchester has shown that even water-soluble statins can affect placental development, leading to worse pregnancy outcomes. Current guidelines recommend avoiding statins during pregnancy due to their potential risks, and this study supports these recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine·DateDec 9, 2008

Asthma: Commonly used medication shows no clear benefits in children

A new study concludes that long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs) offer no additional benefit to conventional preventative medications in children. LABAs, such as salmeterol and formoterol, can improve lung function but do not reduce asthma symptoms or hospital admissions.

SourceWiley·JournalEvidence-Based Child Health A Cochrane Review Journal·DateDec 9, 2008

Developing countries lack means to acquire more efficient technologies

A new study by NCAR and University of Colorado warns that developing countries will struggle to afford and implement efficient technologies, exacerbating global warming. The research suggests that even advanced nations are worsening the outlook for global warming due to increasing emissions.

Boy-girl bullying in middle grades more common than previously thought

Research by Philip Rodkin reveals that unpopular boys are more likely to bully popular girls, challenging the classic 'whipping boy' syndrome. The study found that both bullies and victims are highly disliked by their peers, highlighting the need for educators to take reports of harassment from popular girls seriously.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateDec 9, 2008

SMU chemist wins NSF early career award

SMU chemist Brent Sumerlin has received a $475,000 NSF Faculty Early Career Development Award for two related nanotechnology research projects. His work focuses on developing novel materials with composite properties, including automatic insulin release technology for diabetics and self-repairing coatings for airplane wings.

When it's more than the 'terrible twos'

Researchers estimate RASD affects 25-30% of children with an autistic disorder. Children with RASD typically develop normally until 18-24 months, then regress and lose previously acquired skills. Identifying early signs is crucial to address potential neurological development issues.

SourceTemple University·JournalNeuropsychology Review·DateDec 9, 2008

Flora not flourishing in world's hotspots

Researchers at the University of Calgary found that tropical regions have higher risks of plant extinction than previously thought. The study analyzed worldwide databases and discovered that factors like latitude are more important in determining the number of threatened species than human activities.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2008