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Temple University


Autistic mannerisms reduced by sensory treatment

A study from Temple University found that sensory integration therapy significantly reduced autistic mannerisms in children, leading to improved behavior and learning outcomes. The treatment enabled children to better regulate their responses to sensations and situations, making self-care and classroom activities more manageable.

Poses can prevent falls

A nine-week Iyengar yoga program improved elderly females' stride speed, flexibility, and single-leg stance. Participants experienced increased confidence in walking and balance, as well as reduced pain in some cases. The study suggests that yoga can help reduce the risk of falls by improving balance and stability.

Communicating your way to a healthy heart

A recent study from Temple University's School of Medicine found that regular communication with doctors can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. By using an internet-based health reporting system and regular clinic visits, participants were able to improve their blood pressure, blood lipid levels, and cardiovascular...

Reducing HD risk naturally post-menopause

Regular aerobic exercise significantly decreases oxidative stress levels and improves cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The study found that both HRT users and non-users benefited equally from the exercise program, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Women & Aging·DateMar 18, 2008

Using flower power to fight foot woes

Researchers have found that marigold therapy can clear or greatly reduce the number and size of plantar warts in four to six sessions, even in HIV-positive patients who are harder to treat. The therapy uses extracts from several types of marigold plants and has been used for nearly 30 years in the UK to treat various foot issues.

Walk away menopausal anxiety, stress and depression

A new study published by Temple University found that adding a brisk walking routine can reduce psychological symptoms like anxiety, stress and depression in postmenopausal women. The research suggests moderate-paced exercise can help maintain mental health throughout the menopausal transition.

SourceTemple University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 3, 2008

Religion habit cuts anxiety in women

A new study by Temple University finds that women who stopped being religiously active were more than three times likely to suffer generalized anxiety and alcohol abuse/dependence. Conversely, men who stopped being actively religious experienced decreased major depression.

SourceTemple University·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateJan 1, 2008

Smoking and depression often co-occur in new mothers

A study by Temple University researcher Dr. Robert Whitaker found that smoking and depression often co-occur in new mothers, affecting the health of their children. The combination may lead to sudden infant death, asthma, ear infections, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, behavior problems, language delay, and childhood depression.

SourceTemple University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateNov 26, 2007

More fast food means greater BMI

A Temple University analysis reveals that eating three to six fast-food meals per week is associated with a significant increase in body mass index. The study also found that Americans are less willing to pay more for healthy dishes, less knowledgeable about healthy menu items, and more likely to consider healthy items bland-tasting.

Secondhand smoke increases teen test failure

A new study in the Journal of Adolescent Health suggests that secondhand smoke exposure at home increases the risk of test failure in teens. Exposure to secondhand smoke decreased the odds of passing standardized achievement tests by 30 percent in 16- and 18-year-olds.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateSep 20, 2007

Increasing physical activity with a little boost

A study by Temple University found that personalized mail feedback programs were more effective in increasing physical activity levels compared to phone-based counseling. Participants who received print-based feedback showed significant improvements in physical activity, with an average of 160 minutes per week.

SourceTemple University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 26, 2007

Meaningful leisure can mean many things

A study by Yoshi Iwasaki explores the role of enjoyable and expressive activities in promoting quality of life across cultures. The findings suggest that culturally-based leisure-like pursuits can enhance well-being, self-esteem, and resilience, particularly in less-privileged populations.

SourceTemple University·JournalSocial Indicators Research·DateJun 21, 2007

How will responders respond?

Healthcare workers' perceptions of their role in disaster response and safety concerns significantly impact their willingness to report to work. Hospital crisis planners must address these factors to ensure adequate staffing during disasters.

Biosensor sniffs out explosives

Researchers at Temple University have developed a new biosensor that uses mammalian olfactory signaling machinery to detect explosives. The biosensor can also potentially be used to screen experimental medications, a crucial step in the development of new drugs.

SourceTemple University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 8, 2007

Doctors ill equipped to confront parent smoking

A recent survey found that nearly 60% of US children ages 3-11 are exposed to secondhand smoke daily, with urban children suffering the highest rates. Pediatricians lack formal training on effectively addressing secondhand smoke-related issues, despite knowing its hazardous health consequences.

SourceTemple University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 1, 2007

iPods help docs improve stethoscope skills

A study at Temple University found that listening repeatedly to heart sounds on an iPod improved the stethoscope skills of general internists, increasing correct identification rates to 80%. This technique relies on intensive repetition and is essential for recognizing abnormal heart sounds and identifying dangerous conditions.

New compound shows promise in halting HIV spread

A new compound, 2-5AN6B, has shown significant promise in inhibiting HIV replication in white blood cells from HIV-infected patients. The compound works by a different mechanism than current drugs, reducing the risk of mutation and improving treatment effectiveness.

SourceTemple University·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJan 31, 2007

Go to church and breathe easier

A Temple University study found that regular church attendance slows pulmonary function decline among men and women over 70. The study suggests that religious engagement provides social contact, emotional support, and psychological well-being, potentially benefiting health.

SourceTemple University·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateNov 29, 2006

Measuring pandemic preparedness

A federal plan to vaccinate healthcare workers against smallpox had a low compliance rate and high variability among states. Researchers found that some states ranked poorly due to lack of support and ambivalent messages from authorities.

SourceTemple University·JournalEpidemiology and Infection·DateNov 29, 2006

Going to church to lose weight

A four-year study led by Temple University aims to test an internet-based telemedicine system to help overweight and obese African Americans lose weight. The program will be implemented through partnerships with several churches in North Philadelphia, where participants can access the study's website and moderated chat rooms for guidance.

Racial differences found in emphysema onset

Researchers confirm racial biological differences in emphysema distribution and severity between African Americans and Caucasians. The study suggests that the mechanism underlying the disease may vary between races, highlighting the need for targeted antismoking policies and improved treatment options for African American patients.

Smoking messages miss Asian Americans

A new study reveals that Korean-American smokers often prioritize social benefits over health risks, making it difficult for them to quit. The study suggests that culturally tailored programs are necessary to address these issues, taking into account language, intent, and social dynamics within the Asian American community.

SourceTemple University·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateMay 30, 2006