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Science News for January 3, 2011


Experimental drug more potent, longer lasting than morphine

A new experimental drug, morphine-6-0-sulfate, has been found to be more potent and longer-lasting than standard morphine, with less likelihood of causing constipation. The study, led by Dr. Joseph Holtman Jr., tested the drug on rats and demonstrated its potential clinical advantages compared to morphine.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology·DateJan 3, 2011

Large-scale study reveals major decline in bumble bees in the US

A large-scale study has found major declines in US bumble bee populations, with four species experiencing a 96% drop in relative abundance and a 23-87% loss of geographic range. The researchers attributed the decline to low genetic diversity, high infection rates with the parasite pathogen, and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2011

Research demonstrates that education programs can increase parent-child interactions

Researchers found that parent education programs delivered through pediatric primary care offices increased verbal interactions between parents and children, leading to improved school readiness. The Video Interaction Project (VIP) and Building Blocks interventions showed significant benefits, including reduced infant television exposure.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 3, 2011

Authorities often aware of previous incidents of victimization among children and adolescents

A national survey of over 4,500 children found that nearly half of U.S. youth who experience violence or abuse have at least one incident known to school, police, or medical authorities. The study suggests that authorities are more aware of severe incidents like sexual abuse, but still underestimate many cases.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 3, 2011

Risk of breast cancer recurrence may depend on treating surgeon

A study published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer recurrence rates can vary significantly based on the treating surgeon. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 women with ductal carcinoma in situ and discovered that positive or close margins following surgery substantially compromised disease...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 3, 2011