MedWorm: International Medicine and Public Health

Lawmakers Commit to Women's Health and Rights by 2015 - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

ADDIS ABABA — Lawmakers from 115 countries reaffirmed their support today to the principles and goals of the 1994 Cairo International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and underlined the indispensable role of its Programme of Action in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). They also committed to supporting accessible and affordable health services that promote family planning, HIV prevention and the health and well-being of women and girls. (Source: UNFPA News)

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Statement by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on Killing in Kabul - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, the Executive Director of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, today expressed deep sadness at the loss of lives of some United Nations staff and Afghan people in today’s attacks in Kabul. She extended her heartfelt sympathies to all of the families and friends of the dead or wounded. Appealing to parliam... (Source: UNFPA News)

Creating a New Consensus on Population - 02 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

NEW YORK — The definitive story behind the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and how it has changed the world over the course of the last 15 years is detailed in the newly released book, Creating a New Consensus on Population. (Source: UNFPA News)

UNFPA Report Linking Climate Change, Women to Be Released on 18 November - 04 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

UNITED NATIONS, New York — In a new report to be issued on Wednesday, 18 November, UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, will show how people, especially empowered women, could make a difference in the fight against climate change. (Source: UNFPA News)

Five Ways of Looking at Maternal Health: The Mothers of Ethiopia - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

NEW YORK — In Ethiopia, 22,000 women and girls die each year as a result of complications during pregnancy or childbirth, and more than 500,000 suffer from pregnancy-related disabilities. That means that one out of every 27 Ethiopian women will end up dying from straining to give life. Reducing the high maternal mortality ratio is one of the greatest public health challenges facing the country. (Source: UNFPA News)

Country on the Move: Rwanda’s Family Planning Efforts Begin to Pay Off - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

MUHURA, Rwanda — When school lets out in the little village of Muhura, waves of children in bright blue or tan uniforms stream out along the dirt roadside in waves, running toward the soccer field, playing tag or stopping to stare at the rare sight of a vehicle passing by. (Source: UNFPA News)

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Maternal Mortality Halved in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, but Too Many Women Still Die Giving Life - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

ISTANBUL – Decision-makers and government officials from 20 countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia have pledged to step up the fight against needless deaths and suffering resulting from pregnancy and childbirth. In a Statement of Commitment issued in Istanbul late last night, delegates to a high-level meeting recognized that investment in the health and rights of women is smart economics, especially during a financial crisis, and that family planning is one of the most cost-effective investments in reducing the maternal deaths that continue to affect the region. (Source: UNFPA News)

Largest International Family Planning Conference in 15 Years Convenes in Uganda - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

KAMPALA - Over 1,200 leading policymakers, researchers, academics and health professionals from 59 countries will meet in Kampala, Uganda, from 15 to 18 November, where they will share the latest scientific findings and refocus the world’s attention on family planning’s contribution to development. (Source: UNFPA News)

Promoting the Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity in Diverse Cultural and Religious Settings - 13 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

Today I will talk about expanding engagement and partnership at the community level in service delivery of sexual and reproductive health programmes by Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs). I will not address the issue of youth perspective because this would be another keynote address by itself. This issue requires more knowledge and understanding especially as the youth culture has two poles – religiosity and progressive activism and young people have a special culture of their own. I would suggest that young people from diverse institutions including FBOs should be the ones to address their own perspective on culture and religion. (Source: UNFPA News)

Melting Glaciers Alter a Way of Life: Adapting to Harsh New Realities in Bolivia - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

AMACHUMA CHICO, Bolivia — On the steep slopes leading down from the Huayna Potosi and Chacaltaya mountains lies a string of tiny communities where families eke out a meager living by keeping llamas, sheep and chickens and by growing small crops of potatoes and oca, a perennial plant grown in the central and southern Andes. (Source: UNFPA News)

Facing the Floods: Women Cope With Climate Change in Viet Nam - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Viet Nam — Life has never been easy for Nguyen Thi Lanh, 51, and Nguyen Duc Phi, 52. After enduring years of war, they married in 1977 and a year later had their first baby. “We were very poor at that time,” Lanh explains. “My husband had to take care of his family because his mother had died. We hardly had rice to feed our child, and we had to rebuild our house, which had collapsed during the war.” (Source: UNFPA News)

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Looking at Climate Change through the Eyes of the Young: Youth Report Tells Their Stories - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

NEW YORK — Many young people are already living in cultures that are changing rapidly in response to a degraded environment. And they are also the ones who will have to grapple with the increasing challenges climate change will present in the coming decades. (Source: UNFPA News)

Women Central to Efforts to Deal With Climate Change, Says New UNFPA Report - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

LONDON - Women bear the disproportionate burden of climate change, but have so far been largely overlooked in the debate about how to address problems of rising seas, droughts, melting glaciers and extreme weather, concludes The State of World Population 2009, released today by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund. (Source: UNFPA News)

Experts and Policy Makers Renew their Commitment to Family Planning - 19 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:22:01 +0100

KAMPALA — The largest conference on family planning in fifteen years concluded yesterday with nearly 1,300 international experts, policy makers and representatives of civil society reaffirming their commitment to family planning and to revitalizing it by sharing research findings and best practices. (Source: UNFPA News)

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25 November 2009

UNFPA News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:21:59 +0100

Every day, women and girls are subject to domestic violence, exploitation, sexual violence, trafficking, honour crimes, harmful traditional practices, such as bride burning and early marriages, and other forms of violence against their bodies, minds and human dignity. In the 16 days leading up to Human Rights Day and every day, let us come together to demand an end to the most pervasive yet least reported human rights abuse in the world. (Source: UNFPA News)

RIGHTS-LAOS: How Women Cope With Disability - Part 1

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:19:38 +0100

VIENTIANE, Nov 20 (IPS) - Before 2002, Chanhpheng Sivila held training workshops for the many Lao disabled women and men at her own house. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

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CLIMATE CHANGE: Health at Risk

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:19:38 +0100

HAVANA, Nov 20 (IPS) - The impacts of climate change on human health will require new approaches to development, based on mitigation and adaptation programmes in line with policies that ensure equal access to health care. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

GENDER-AFRICA: Some Progress Amidst Continuing Challenges

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:19:38 +0100

BANJUL, Nov 21 (IPS) - The Beijing Platform for Action in 1995 set out an agenda to address gender equality in priority areas, including poverty, education, and health care. It also committed governments to address violence against women, equitable access to economic resources and decision-making power. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

CONFERENCE: Foro Latinoamericano sobre VIH/SIDA

WHO Maternal, Newborn and Child Health — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:55:00 +0100

Organizer: Grupo de Cooperación Técnico Horizontal (GCTH) Event dates: 21-23 November 2009 Venue: Lima, Peru (Source: WHO Maternal, Newborn and Child Health)

Rights Groups Urge Clinton to Address Treatment of Rape Survivors in Sudan Policy

PHR Press Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:10:38 +0100

No description available (Source: PHR Press Releases)

Floods and Food

Red Cross Chat — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:14:02 +0100

Last month, we heard about food shortages in India that resulted from a combination of droughts and intense flooding which ruined crops. Last week, El Salvador President Mauricio Funes declared a national emergency due to torrential rains that, among other things, devastated crops in regions across the country. These food-related crises on such a massive scale may be difficult to comprehend when they happen in other corners of the world, but recently the United States also had a taste (no pun intended) of flood-related food shortages. Yesterday, Kellogg Co. announced a nationwide shortage of Eggo waffles, the longtime breakfast favorite. Their facility in Atlanta was set to open recently, but the Southeastern floods delayed that opening. The company now has to clean the facility all over ...

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Lawmakers Commit to Women's Health and Rights by 2015 - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Statement by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on Killing in Kabul - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Creating a New Consensus on Population - 02 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

UNFPA Report Linking Climate Change, Women to Be Released on 18 November - 04 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Five Ways of Looking at Maternal Health: The Mothers of Ethiopia - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

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Country on the Move: Rwanda’s Family Planning Efforts Begin to Pay Off - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Maternal Mortality Halved in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, but Too Many Women Still Die Giving Life - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Largest International Family Planning Conference in 15 Years Convenes in Uganda - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Promoting the Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity in Diverse Cultural and Religious Settings - 13 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Melting Glaciers Alter a Way of Life: Adapting to Harsh New Realities in Bolivia - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

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Facing the Floods: Women Cope With Climate Change in Viet Nam - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Looking at Climate Change through the Eyes of the Young: Youth Report Tells Their Stories - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Women Central to Efforts to Deal With Climate Change, Says New UNFPA Report - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

Experts and Policy Makers Give a New Impulse to Family Planning - 19 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:19 +0100

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25 November 2009

UNFPA News — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 +0100

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DEVELOPMENT: Climate Change Likely to Increase African Hunger Woes

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:27:35 +0100

BERLIN, Nov 18 (IPS) - Africa, the continent already most affected by hunger and food scarcity, is likely to see its woes increased due to climate change and the changing rain patterns it provokes, experts and scientists say. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

DEVELOPMENT: Child Rights Make Headway, But Millions Still Suffering

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:27:35 +0100

UNITED NATIONS, Nov 19 (IPS) - The international community, which has been hit by a financial meltdown and a global food crisis, claims it is doing its best to protect and safeguard the rights of children worldwide. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

Q&A: Recognise the Benefits of Slowing Population Growth

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:27:35 +0100

KAMPALA, Nov 19 (IPS) - Family planning: key to reducing child mortality and improving maternal health; a way to put less strain on the environment; and a smaller population makes the challenge of providing adequate education and health services that little bit easier. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

AFRICA: Growing Use of Cellphones for Family Planning

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:27:35 +0100

KAMPALA, Nov 19 (IPS) - The growth of cellphone use, particularly in the developing world, is providing health experts with a new channel of communication to provide family planning information. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

RIGHTS-LAOS: How Women Cope With Disability - Part 1

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:27:35 +0100

VIENTIANE, Nov 20 (IPS) - Before 2002, Chanhpheng Sivila held training workshops for the many Lao disabled women and men at her own house. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

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Agriculture can adapt to climate change

SciDev.Net — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:50:58 +0100

Innovative agricultural technologies can produce crops that meet climate change challenges, says ICRISAT head William Dar. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Maize genome offers hope of improved varieties

SciDev.Net — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:46:07 +0100

The sequencing of the maize genome should boost efforts to find higher-yielding and climate change-proof varieties. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Libya and UN agency enter pact to boost food security, sustainable development

UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Libya have agreed on a $71 million programme to boost cooperation over the next five years to strengthen food security and sustainable development in the country. (Source: UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security)

Urgent aid needed to restore Indonesia's quake-ravaged health services - UN

UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Hospitals, clinics and other health services for thousands of Indonesians need urgent aid after two earthquakes ravaged west Sumatra in September, with the goal of enabling them to better withstand future emergencies, the United Nations health agency said today. (Source: UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security)

More must be done to tackle global crisis' of road traffic deaths, says Ban

UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

With traffic accidents causing the deaths of more than one million people every year, more than malaria or diabetes, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged greater efforts to better protect the millions upon millions who travel the world's roads every day. (Source: UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security)

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Ultrasound enhances noninvasive Down syndrome tests

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) The addition of a "genetic sonogram" maximizes the accuracy of noninvasive testing for Down syndrome, said a Baylor College of Medicine researcher who was lead author of a landmark study in the current issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Effect of real-time CPR feedback reported at resuscitation science symposium

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Washington - Health Sciences/UW News, Community Relations & Marketing) The Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium is the largest clinical research network to study prehospital treatments for cardiac arrest in the United States and Canada. ROC conducted the first randomized study to assess if real-time audio-feedback, during the EMS prehospital course of care, would improve clinical outcome. Results of the study were presented on November 15 during the Resuscitation Science Symposium 2009 program. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Parent training complements medication for treating behavioral problems in children with PDD

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(NIH/National Institute of Mental Health) Treatment that includes medication plus a structured training program for parents reduces serious behavioral problems in children with autism and related conditions, according to a study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Saving the single cysteine: New antioxidant system found

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Michigan) We've all read studies about the health benefits of having a life partner. The same thing is true at the molecular level, where amino acids known as cysteines are much more vulnerable to damage when single than when paired up with other cysteines. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Promoting healthy skepticism in the news: Helping journalists get it right

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Journal of the National Cancer Institute) An editorial published online November 20 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute discusses the exaggerated fears and hopes that often appear in news coverage of cancer research. The editorial provides guidance for both the media and journals to help alleviate the problem. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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High blood pressure easy to miss in children with kidney disease

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions) Spot blood pressure readings in children with chronic kidney disease often fail to detect hypertension -- even during doctor's office visits -- increasing a child's risk for serious heart problems, according to research from Johns Hopkins Children's Center and other institutions. A report of the findings appears online in the Journal of American Society of Nephrology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Funeral industry workers exposed to formaldehyde face higher risk of leukemia

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Journal of the National Cancer Institute) Long durations of exposure to formaldehyde used for embalming in the funeral industry were associated with an increased risk of death from myeloid leukemia, according to a new study published online Nov. 20 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Possible link studied between childhood abuse and early cellular aging

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Brown University) Researchers from Brown University and Butler Hospital have determined that children who suffer physical or emotional abuse may be faced with accelerated cellular aging as adults. The findings are published online in the journal Biological Psychiatry. A print version of the article is also expected. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Special sessions announced for World Congress on Osteoporosis 2010 - IOF WCO - ECCEO10

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(International Osteoporosis Foundation) Researchers are invited to contribute their abstracts to the World Congress on Osteoporosis 2010, the largest global meeting devoted to all aspects of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis research and patient care. The Congress will be held in Florence, Italy from May 5-8, 2010.Beginning today, abstracts can be submitted online. The submission deadline is Feb. 4, 2010. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Researchers identify role of gene in tumor development, growth and progression

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Virginia Commonwealth University) Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center and VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine researchers have identified a gene that may play a pivotal role in two processes that are essential for tumor development, growth and progression to metastasis. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Genetic analysis helps dissect molecular basis of cardiovascular disease

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Public Library of Science) Using highly precise measurements of plasma lipoprotein concentrations determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, researchers performed genetic association analysis across the whole genome among 17,296 women of European ancestry. This large scale analysis of the effects of common genetic variation on plasma lipoprotein profile, a critical component of cardiovascular risk, identified 43 genetic loci contributing to lipoprotein metabolism. The findings are published on Nov. 20 in the open-access journal PLoS Genetics. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Evolution of evolution: An NSF-sponsored webcast featuring Mohamed Noor

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(National Science Foundation) Please join the National Science Foundation on Monday, Nov. 23, at 10 a.m. ET for a live webcast featuring Darwin-Wallace Medal recipient Mohamed Noor of Duke University, who will answer media questions about current evidence for evolution and modern evolution theory. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Radiology procedure may help increase long-term survival in patients with severe liver cancer

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Radiology / American Roentgen Ray Society) In patients with unresectable (unable to be removed by surgery) liver cancer, an interventional radiology procedure called triple-drug transcatheter arterial chemoemobolization followed by a liver transplant may significantly increase a patient's chance of long-term survival, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Chest ultrasound as useful as chest CT in the eval of pediatric patients with complicated pneumonia

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Radiology / American Roentgen Ray Society) Chest ultrasound can serve as a viable alternative to chest CT in the evaluation of pediatric patients with complicated pneumonia and parapneumonic effusion (a build-up of fluid between the lung and chest wall), according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Simple blood test could reduce repeat breast MRI scans in premenopausal women with irregular periods

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Radiology / American Roentgen Ray Society) A simple blood test corresponding to the follicular phase (days 3-14) of a normal menstrual cycle can aid in optimal scheduling of breast MRI exams in premenopausal women with irregular cycles -- possibly reducing the number of repeat scans and non-diagnostic tests patients experience and providing clearer images on which doctors make their recommendations, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Medical imaging technique identifies very common condition in women that often goes undiagnosed

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Radiology / American Roentgen Ray Society) In women with lower urinary tract symptoms, a medical imaging technique called dynamic MRI allows clinicians to diagnose pelvic organ prolapse -- a condition that often goes undiagnosed on static MRI and at physical examination, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Reasonable alternative to invasive biopsy of palpable breast lesions with benign imaging features identified

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Radiology / American Roentgen Ray Society) Short-term follow-up is a reasonable alternative to invasive biopsy of palpable (capable of being touched or felt) breast lesions with benign imaging features, particularly in younger women with probable fibroadenoma (non-cancerous tumors that often occur in women during their reproductive years), according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Barn personnel experience higher-than-average rates of respiratory symptoms

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Tufts University, Health Sciences) The estimated 4.6 million Americans involved in the equine industry may be at risk of developing respiratory symptoms due to poor air quality in horse barns, according to a questionnaire study undertaken earlier this year by investigators at Tufts University's Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

From toxic dust and algae to ill winds from Africa

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(United States Geological Survey) Media tipsheet on USGS scientific presentations at SETAC conference, Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

ESC to give talks on diabetes in 3 cities in China

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(European Society of Cardiology) As a result of successful events organized last year, a second Joint Scientific Forum, organized by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, two of the most respected professional medical organizations in Europe, will be held from Nov. 27-29 at three venues across China -- Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Older problem drinkers use more alcohol than do their younger counterparts

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Ohio State University) Older adults who have alcohol dependence problems drink significantly more than do younger adults who have similar problems, a new study has found. The findings suggest that older problem drinkers may have developed a tolerance for alcohol and need to drink even more than younger abusers to achieve the effects they seek. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Novel K-anonymity algorithm safeguards access to data

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute) As electronic health records become more widely deployed, increasing amounts of health information are being collected. This data has many beneficial applications, such as research, public health, and health system planning. In a recent study, Dr. Khaled El Emam, the Canada Research Chair in Electronic Health Information at the CHEO Research Institute argues that there is a need for robust de-identification of patient data to avoid the negative impact that individual consent requirements have on studies using health record data for secondary purposes. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Discovery of new type of immune cells regulating inflammation in chronic diseases

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health) Scientists of Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen and the Center of Allergy and Environment of Technische Universitaet Muenchen have discovered a new type of immune cells -- the Th22 cells -- which can protect the body against inflammation and aid in tissue repair. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Gaining a better picture of lung disease

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Western Ontario) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a respiratory disease commonly known as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. 600 million people live with COPD and while researchers have yet to find any real treatment or cure, Grace Parraga of Robarts Research Institute at The University of Western Ontario in London, Canada, is using various imaging techniques to gain new insight into the disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Rare pancreatic cancer patients may live longer when treated with radiation therapy

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American Society for Radiation Oncology) Radiation therapy is effective in achieving local control and palliation in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, despite such tumors being commonly considered resistant to radiation therapy, according to a largest of its kind study in the Nov. 15 issue of the International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, the official journal of the American Society for Radiation Oncology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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More than powerful! German research computer QPACE is the most energy efficient in the world

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres) At the 2009 Supercomputing Conference in Portland, Ore., the high-performance computer QPACE (QCD Parallel Computing on the Cell) was recognized today as the most energy-efficient supercomputer in the world. QPACE is at the head of the Green500 list, which provides a global ranking of energy-efficient supercomputers. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Dispensing prescription drugs in 3-month supplies reduces drug costs by a third

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Chicago Medical Center) Purchasing prescription drugs in a three-month supply rather than a one-month supply has long been regarded as a way to save money. New research from the University of Chicago quantifies the savings for the first time. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

National awards recognize outstanding contributors to health research

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Research Australia) Six outstanding contributors to the health and medical research industry are being recognized by Research Australia in its annual "Thank You" Day awards tomorrow. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Novel K-anonimity algorithm safeguards access to data

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Projections of savings from health IT are baseless, Harvard researchers say

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Physicians for a National Health Program) The increased computerization in US hospitals hasn't made them cheaper or more efficient, Harvard researchers say, although it may have modestly improved the quality of care for heart attacks. The findings contradict claims by President Obama and many lawmakers that health information technology, including electronic medical records, will save billions and help make reform affordable. The study uses data from the most extensive survey ever undertaken of hospital computerization. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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Researchers begin to decipher metabolism of sexual assault drug

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Michigan Technological University) It's a naturally occurring brain chemical with an unwieldy name: 4-hydroxybutyrate (4-HB). Taken by mouth, it can be abused or used as a date-rape drug. Now, a team of Ohio and Michigan scientists have determined new routes by which 4-HB is metabolized by the body. "This is new and important information," said K. Michael Gibson, professor and chair of biological sciences at Michigan Technological University and a member of the research team. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Q&A: Health systems innovation with Gill Samuels

SciDev.Net — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:29:53 +0100

Gill Samuels of the Global Forum for Health Research tells SciDev.Net why health innovation must include health systems research. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Don't ignore agriculture in climate talks, experts warn

SciDev.Net — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:29:10 +0100

Agriculture and how it can adapt to climate change should be given more attention at Copenhagen, a group of scientists has urged. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Setting and meeting priorities in Indigenous health research in Australia and its application in the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal Health

Health Research Policy and Systems — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Priority setting is about making decisions. Key issues faced during priority setting processes include identifying who makes these decisions, who sets the criteria, and who benefits. The paper reviews the literature and history around priority setting in research, particularly in Aboriginal health research. We explore these issues through a case study of the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal Health (CRCAH)'s experience in setting and meeting priorities.Historically, researchers have made decisions about what research gets done. Pressures of growing competition for research funds and an increased public interest in research have led to demands that appropriate consultation with stakeholders is conducted and that research is of benefit to the wider society. Within Australian Aborigi...

Weekly Worldwide Wrap-Up

Red Cross Chat — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:48:10 +0100

Welcome to the Weekly Worldwide Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It’s a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work… [The place names link to maps so that you can get a quick idea of the region.] UGANDA: “Some had never been hugged until they scored their first goal…” Former child soldiers meet not on the battlefield, but the soccer fieldfor a friendly match supported by the IFRC Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support. WORLDWIDE: In advance of Universal Children’s Day, the ICRC is calling for a stop to crimes against children in war BANGLADESH: Two years after Cyclone Sidr, close to 250,000 families have their liv...

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Rome: World Food Summit fails to address childhood malnutrition

MSF News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:36:00 +0100

As the World Food Summit draws to a close in Rome this week, the international community has once again neglected to deal with childhood malnutrition. World leaders have failed to commit funds to directly target malnutrition, despite pledges made at the l’Aquila G8 meeting earlier this year of $21 billion to support food security. The needs of the 3.5 to 5 million children under the age of five that die from malnutrition each year have been neglected. This means that the summit has conspicuously failed to protect those most in need. In 2008 Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) treated more than 300,000 malnourished children worldwide. MSF teams have witnessed the damage caused by ineffective food assistance, ineffective despite the fact that scientific consensus on preventing malnut...

Belgium

MSF Blogs — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:03:14 +0100

Photo: Gaël Turine Brussels – November18, 2009 A kosovar family eats lunch at the soup kitchen organised by CIRÉ and Vluchtelingenwerk Vlaanderen at the Saint-Roch church in Brussels. At this moment, more than 1,000 asylum seekers have nowhere to go and survive in the streets, with winter rapidly approaching. (Source: MSF Blogs)

Five Key Areas for Moving Forward: Reflections with Parliamentarians on ICPD/15 - 27 October 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

ADDIS ABABA - We meet as we commemorate the 15th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). We are gathered here to advance the visionary and holistic ICPD Programme of Action, which recognized the diversity the 179 governments participating in the conference, taking into consideration the diverse cultural values and religious beliefs that are not against human rights. Fifteen years ago, 179 governments explicitly recognized sexual and reproductive health as a human right. Since then, the political commitments articulated within the ICPD Programme of Action have helped transform the international legal framework on reproductive rights, as well as national laws worldwide. (Source: UNFPA News)

Lawmakers Commit to Women's Health and Rights by 2015 - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Statement by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on Killing in Kabul - 28 October 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

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Creating a New Consensus on Population - 02 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

UNFPA Report Linking Climate Change, Women to Be Released on 18 November - 04 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Five Ways of Looking at Maternal Health: The Mothers of Ethiopia - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Country on the Move: Rwanda’s Family Planning Efforts Begin to Pay Off - 11 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Maternal Mortality Halved in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, but Too Many Women Still Die Giving Life - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

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Largest International Family Planning Conference in 15 Years Convenes in Uganda - 12 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Promoting the Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity in Diverse Cultural and Religious Settings - 13 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Melting Glaciers Alter a Way of Life: Adapting to Harsh New Realities in Bolivia - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Facing the Floods: Women Cope With Climate Change in Viet Nam - 16 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 17 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

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Looking at Climate Change through the Eyes of the Young: Youth Report Tells Their Stories - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:38 +0100

Women Central to Efforts to Deal With Climate Change, Says New UNFPA Report - 18 November 2009

UNFPA News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:37:36 +0100

Frequency of Helicobacter pylori vacA genotypes in Iranian patients with gastric and duodenal ulcer

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

This study demonstrated that vacA slml is common genotype of H. pylori in patients with peptic ulcer and the vacA allele s1 of this bacterium is associated with ulcer. (Source: Journal of Infection and Public Health)

Evidence for the exacerbation of lymphedema of geochemical origin, podoconiosis, by onchocerciasis

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Summary: The study was conducted to investigate a variation in the distribution of endemic elephantiasis previously determined to be of geochemical origin in three neighbouring and essentially homogenous villages, Bambili, Bambui and Finge of the Bambui Health District of NW Cameroon. A total of 301 subjects were examined for onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis in the area using standard procedures. The onchocercal microfilarial prevalence varied from 6.5% in Bambili through 20.4% in Bambui to 60.4% in Finge. The onchocercal serological prevalence based on IgG4 detection followed a similar trend. By contrast, blood microfilariae were absent in the area as verified by use of sensitive techniques. The community prevalence of elephantiasis varied from 1.1% in Bambili to 4.4% in Bambui and...

Self-medication with antibiotics in the ambulatory care setting within the Euro-Mediterranean region; results from the ARMed project

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Summary: Anecdotal data from the southern and eastern Mediterranean region suggests that self-medication with antibiotics is commonly practiced in many countries. In order to provide proper information on the situation, we undertook short structured interviews in out-patients clinics or primary health centres in Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Tunisia and Turkey. A total of 2109 interviews were undertaken of which 1705 completed the full questionnaire. Self-medication was reported by 19.1% ( (Source: Journal of Infection and Public Health)

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A combined molecular typing approach does not discriminate Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 strains of a predominant sequence-based type in Palermo, Italy

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

In this study, extended sequence-based typing and pulsed field gel electrophoresis were used in a combined approach in the aim to enhance discriminatory power of the molecular typing procedures. However, probably due to a common environmental reservoir and genetic stability, most of the strains circulating in the geographic area under study belong to the same clone and are, consequently, indistinguishable by molecular typing. Investigations of clinical cases and tracing to their environmental source require caution and support from sound epidemiological data. (Source: Journal of Infection and Public Health)

Social network methodology for studying HIV epidemiology in men having sex with men

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Abstract: A self-administered network-based questionnaire survey was conducted on 91 HIV-positive Chinese men having sex with men (MSM). Affiliation matrices were created to assess their networking pattern. The individuals’ preferential use of venues for sex partnership before HIV infection has changed over three time periods of 1997–2000, 2001–2003 and 2004–2006. Over time, there was a parallel increase in network density (density scores from 0.26, through 0.36, to 0.53) and degree centrality (from a median score of 9, through 12, to 16), suggesting that connectivity of MSM was becoming higher through sexual networks. The overall practice of unprotected sex has, however, remained the same. The study demonstrated how the application of social network analysis could enrich the epide...

Prevalence of malaria from peripheral blood smears examination: A 1-year retrospective study from the Serbo Health Center, Kersa Woreda, Ethiopia

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Summary: Malaria is a major public health problem in Ethiopia. Over the past years, the disease has been consistently reported as the first leading cause of outpatient visits, hospitalization and death in health facilities across the country. Thus, a retrospective study was conducted to determine the prevalence of malaria from peripheral blood smear examination from the Serbo Health Center of Ethiopia. The case notes of all malaria cases treated between July 2007 and June 2008 were carefully reviewed and analyzed. Of the total 6863 smears, 3009 were found to be positive and contribute 43.8% of diagnostic yield. Plasmodium falciparum constituted the most predominant [64.6% (1946/3009 cases)], while Plasmodium vivax confirmed with 34.9% (1052/3009) cases. Among patients who underwent diagnos...

Epidemiology and outcome of snake bite cases evaluated at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Conclusion: Patients with envenoming following snakebite should receive antivenom as soon as possible: delayed presentation or administration may be very dangerous. The decision to give antivenom should be initiated as soon as possible after patients’ arrival at the Emergency Department and the use of the whole blood clotting test (WBCT) may facilitate the early administration of antivenom. (Source: Journal of Infection and Public Health)

Swine flu

Journal of Infection and Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:36:24 +0100

Summary: The recent outbreak of human infection with a novel Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1) virus is spreading rapidly through sustained human-to-human transmission in multiple countries. Human-to-human transmission occurs by inhalation of infectious droplets and droplet nuclei, and by direct contact, which is facilitated by air and land travel and social gatherings. The most frequently reported symptoms are fever, cough, myalgia, and sore throat. Detailed contact and travel histories and knowledge of viral activity in community are essential for prompt case detection by the health personnel. Real-time Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis of throat swabs or lower respiratory samples is a sensitive means of diagnosis. Use of oral oseltamivir may be warranted for the tre...

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DEVELOPMENT: To Grab, Or To Invest

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:35:39 +0100

ROME, Nov 18 (IPS) - The World Food Security Summit in Rome this week opened up a dispute between what may be investment in farmland to some, but is seen as land grab by others. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

DEVELOPMENT: Climate Change Likely to Increase African Hunger Woes

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:35:39 +0100

HEALTH: Strategy to Cut Vaccine Price Paying Off

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:35:39 +0100

WASHINGTON, Nov 18 (IPS) - The price of a major combination vaccine called the 'pentavalent' has fallen considerably over the past year, bringing the cost per dose below three dollars - a decrease of almost 50 cents, according to data released Wednesday by an alliance of public and private partners who have worked to bring down vaccine prices in the developing world. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

VIETNAM: Water, Water All Around—Plus All the Risks It Brings

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:35:39 +0100

HANOI, Nov 19 (IPS) - As Vietnam’s big cities are increasingly deluged by floods, the infrastructure cannot keep up. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health)

Fears For Migrants Forced Back to Africa

MSF News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:09:00 +0100

Rome, November 19, 2009 -- New Italian government policies to curb the influx of migrants have led to a sharp decrease in the number of migrants and refugees arriving by boat to Lampedusa, Italy. As a result, the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is withdrawing its team from the island. Between May and October 2008, more than 21,000 migrants and refugees landed on Lampedusa after a perilous journey across the Mediterranean, according to MSF. During the same period this year, MSF teams saw fewer than 200 migrants. MSF is extremely concerned for the fate of migrants reportedly intercepted at sea and prevented from arriving in Italy. Since the new government policies were implemented earlier this year, many boa...

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Doctors without patients: MSF fears for migrants forced back to Libya

MSF News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:49:20 +0100

Since the new government policies were implemented earlier this year, many boats carrying migrants have been reportedly intercepted at sea and forced back to Libya. Migrants are being denied the opportunity to land in Europe and receive much-needed humanitarian assistance. They are also exposed once again to the violence and abuse endured while trying to reach Italy. (Source: MSF News)

American Red Cross Launches "Gifts That Save The Day" Holiday Campaign

Aid / Disasters News From Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Many people are cutting back on gift-buying, parties and travel this holiday season, but support for charitable giving remains strong as people believe it is more important this year to give to charities because of the economy, according to a new national survey for the American Red Cross. (Source: Aid / Disasters News From Medical News Today)

Colombia to increase 2010 science budget

SciDev.Net — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:38:09 +0100

The country's budget for science will increase by 67 per cent in 2010, with an emphasis on supporting new PhD students. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Despite much progress, more must be done to protect children's rights - UN

UN News Centre - Women, Children, Population — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Despite considerable progress over the past 20 years in improving the lot of the world's children, including a 28 per cent drop in annual mortality of those under five from 12.5 million to an estimated 8.8 million, their rights are still far from assured, according to a new United Nations report issued today. (Source: UN News Centre - Women, Children, Population)

L’amélioration du dépistage du VIH dans les Caraïbes de l’Est en bonne voie

IntraHealth International — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Par le biais du Projet d’action communautaire des Caraïbes de l’Est* (EC-CAP), IntraHealth œuvre pour que les services communautaires de lutte contre le VIH/SIDA soient plus accessibles dans les îles de cette région, à savoir Antigua-et-Barbuda, la Barbade, St Kitts et Nevis, et St Vincent et les Îles Grenadines. L’Alliance internationale de lutte contre le VIH/SIDA dirige ce projet triennal financé par l’USAID et qui a débuté en 2007. L’Université de Californie à San Francisco appuie également l’EC-CAP qui dispose d’un mandat pour soutenir les priorités stratégiques nationales de chaque pays et pour aider à atteindre les populations à risque afin de réduire la propagation du VIH. Les résultats anticipés par le projet sont en premier lieu d’accroître l�...

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Therapy 32 times more cost effective at increasing happiness than money

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Warwick) Research by the University of Warwick and the University of Manchester finds that psychological therapy could be 32 times more cost effective at making you happy than simply obtaining more money. The research has obvious implications for large compensation awards in law courts but also has wider implications for general public health. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

First reconstitution of an epidermis from human embryonic stem cells

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(INSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)) Stem cell research is making great strides. This is yet again illustrated by a study carried out by the I-STEM Institute, published in the Lancet on Nov. 21, 2009. The I-STEM team, directed by Marc Peschanski has just succeeded in recreating a whole epidermis from human embryonic stem cells.The goal is to one day be able to propose this unlimited resource of cells as an alternative treatment in particular for victims of third degree burns. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Ancestry attracts, but love is blind

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(BioMed Central) People preferentially marry those with similar ancestry, but their decisions are not necessarily based on hair, eye or skin color. Research, published in BioMed Central's open-access journal Genome Biology, shows that Mexicans mate according to proportions of Native-American to European ancestry, while Puerto Ricans are more likely to settle down with someone carrying a similar mix of African and European genes. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Mother's depression a risk factor in childhood asthma symptoms, study suggests

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions) Maternal depression can worsen asthma symptoms in their children, according to research from Johns Hopkins Children's Center published online in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Sweet -- sugared polymer a new weapon against allergies and asthma

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions) Scientists at Johns Hopkins and their colleagues have developed sugar-coated polymer strands that selectively kill off cells involved in triggering aggressive allergy and asthma attacks. Their advance is a significant step toward crafting pharmaceuticals to fight these often life-endangering conditions in a new way. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Bone implant offers hope for skull deformities

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of California - Davis) A synthetic bone matrix offers hope for babies born with craniosynostosis, a condition that causes the plates in the skull to fuse too soon. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Shifting blame is socially contagious

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Southern California) Merely observing someone publicly blame an individual in an organization for a problem -- even when the target is innocent -- greatly increases the odds that the practice of blaming others will spread with the tenacity of the H1N1 flu. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Workshop on economics, neuroscience and hormones

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of California - Davis) A workshop on "Neuroeconomics and Endocrinological Economics," to be held Nov. 20 and 21 at UC Davis, will be the first to bring together experts in neuroscience, economics and hormone physiology in one event, according to organizers. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

New findings suggest strategy to help generate HIV-neutralizing antibodies

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) New discoveries about anti-HIV antibodies may bring researchers a step closer to creating an effective HIV vaccine, according to a new paper co-authored by scientists at the Vaccine Research Center of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

An intervention that can reduce hostile perceptions in children with prenatal alcohol exposure

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research) Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) has been linked to significant impairments in social skills. Researchers have found that a social- skills intervention called Children's Friendship Training can lead to a decrease in hostile attributions or perceptions of children with PAE. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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Treating alcohol-use disorders and tuberculosis together

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research) Treatment for alcohol use disorders and tuberculosis (TB) is rarely integrated, even though the two diseases have a high co-occurrence. American and Russian researchers have jointly designed and are monitoring an innovative program that will deliver alcohol treatment as part of routine TB care. The trial study is continuing. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Poverty measurement in the US: Income transfers alone won't eradicate poverty

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Wiley-Blackwell) Government-based poverty intervention through income transfers may skew poverty level measurement in US. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

New research into the mechanisms of gene regulation

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Penn State) A team of scientists led by Penn State's Ross Hardison has taken a large step toward unraveling how regulatory proteins control the production of gene products during development and growth. They focused specifically on the complex process of producing red blood cells (erythrocytes). These cells contain large amounts of hemoglobin, a molecule essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. The research results could help in the development of important new therapies to combat sickle-cell disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Preventing H1N1 spread to health care workers: Dilemma, debate and confusion

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Lifespan) A commentary in the December issue of the Lancet Infectious Diseases brings to light the gaps in knowledge on the transmission of the influenza virus and its impact on decisions about how best to protect health care workers. Infectious diseases specialist Leonard Mermel, DO, looks at the ongoing debate in light of the H1N1 pandemic, what past research tells us about the spread of influenza and what is missing in the debate. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Scripps research scientists find new link between insulin and core body temperature

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Scripps Research Institute) A team led by scientists at The Scripps Research Institute have discovered a direct link between insulin -- a hormone long associated with metabolism and metabolic disorders such as diabetes -- and core body temperature. While much research has been conducted on insulin since its discovery in the 1920s, this is the first time the hormone has been connected to the fundamental process of temperature regulation. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Weill Cornell science briefs: November 2009

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(New York- Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medical College) The following articles are contained in this issue: Designing speedier lab tests; Reducing neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease; Body's own cholesterol processing may lead to innovative therapies; Making a better vaccine and New way to get a boost in energy disorder. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Waking up memories while you sleep

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Northwestern University) They were in a deep sleep, yet sounds, such as a teakettle whistle, somehow penetrated their slumber. The 25 sounds were reminders of earlier spatial learning, though the Northwestern University research participants were unaware of the sounds as they slept. Yet, upon waking, memory tests showed that spatial memories had changed. "We are beginning to see that deep sleep actually is a key time for memory processing," said Ken Paller, professor of psychology at Northwestern. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Highlighting racial disparities increases coverage and effectiveness of health news

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Missouri-Columbia) As media researchers search for better methods to reach audiences, a new University of Missouri study published in Public Relations Review has found that highlighting racial disparities in news releases increases coverage of health stories in black newspapers, which can improve health outcomes in populations at-risk for disparities. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

The developing child: Rating aggressive and delinquent behavior in pre-adolescence

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Wiley-Blackwell) A study published in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry show that heavy criticism from a parent can increase aggressive behavior in some children. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Case Western School of Medicine receives RWJF grant to establish a public health research network

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Case Western Reserve University) Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine has received a Robert Wood Johnson grant to fund a Public Health Practice Based Research Network called the Ohio Research Association for Public Health Improvement. The grant, $90,000 over two years, was one of seven practice-based research networks awarded this year, making the School of Medicine one of only 12 networks in the country. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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USC study to evaluate robots as exercise trainers

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Southern California) The University of Southern California Center for Robotics and Embedded Systems is comparing virtual versus physical robots as exercise coaches for adults of all ages, with a particular focus on the elderly. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Causative gene of a rare disorder discovered by sequencing only protein-coding regions of genome

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Washington) More that 7,000 rare disorders in aggregate affect millions of people. Researchers have now shown that it may be possible to more quickly identify the causative gene for many of these disorders by sequencing only the protein-coding regions of the genome. This can be done on unrelated individuals, thereby avoiding the need for large families for such studies. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Tips from the Journals of the American Society for Microbiology

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(American Society for Microbiology) The following are tips from the Journals of the American Society for Microbiology: "Bacterially Produced Antifungal on Skin of Amphibians May Protect Against Lethal Fungus"; "New Therapy May be Effective Against Bacterial Infections and Sepsis"; and "Tooth-Binding Micelles Containing Antimicrobials May Provide Long-Term Cavity Protection." (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

An atomic-level look at an HIV accomplice

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Michigan) Since the discovery in 2007 that a component of human semen called SEVI boosts infectivity of the virus that causes AIDS, researchers have been trying to learn more about SEVI and how it works, in hopes of thwarting its infection-promoting activity. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Immunology expert at Children's Hospital receives APS prize for patient-oriented research

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) A pediatric immunologist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has received a prestigious annual award from the American Philosophical Society, an organization founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin. Jordan S. Orange, M.D., Ph.D., received the Society's Judson Daland Prize on Nov. 13 for his contributions to research and treatment of inherited immune deficiency diseases. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Patient's weight not linked to success of fibroid surgery

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Henry Ford Health System) Obese patients are no more likely to have post-operative complications than those of average weight when undergoing robotic surgery to remove uterine fibroids, according to a study at Henry Ford Hospital. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Drug studied as possible treatment for spinal injuries

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Purdue University) Researchers have shown how an experimental drug might restore the function of nerves damaged in spinal cord injuries by preventing short circuits caused when tiny "potassium channels" in the fibers are exposed. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Smithsonian scientists find the frog legs trade may facilitate spread of pathogens

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Smithsonian) Most countries throughout the world participate in the $40-million-per-year culinary trade of frog legs in some way, with 75 percent of frog legs consumed in France, Belgium and the United States. Scientists at the Smithsonian Institution and colleagues have found that this trade is a potential carrier of pathogens deadly to amphibians. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Dana Foundation and Johns Hopkins release neuroeducation book

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(DANA Foundation) Today, the Dana Foundation released Neuroeducation: Learning, Arts, and the Brain, its newest free education resource. The book, the culmination of a summit sponsored by the Johns Hopkins University School of Education's Neuro-Education Initiative, focuses on the convergence of neuroscientific research and teaching and learning, with an emphasis on the arts. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Why can't some people give up cocaine?

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(FECYT - Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology) Drug dependency is a recurrent but treatable kind of addiction. However, not all people who are drug dependent progress in the same way once they stop taking drugs. A new study shows that, in the case of cocaine, a high score on the so-called "scale of craving," an antisocial personality type and previous heroin abuse are the factors most commonly involved in people falling back into the habit. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

WPI researchers take aim at hard-to-treat fungal infections

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Worcester Polytechnic Institute) Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a new model system to study fungal infections. The system can be a powerful tool for screening potential drug targets for conditions like thrush, athlete's foot and vaginal yeast infections, which affect millions of people each year but are difficult to treat with existing medications. Using the new model, the researchers also identified a gene that may be a promising target for a new anti-fungal drug. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

New antioxidant compounds have been identified in foods such as olive oil, honey and nuts

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Granada) Scientists from the University of Granada have used two new techniques, capillary electrophoresis and high resolution liquid chromatography, to enable them to identify and quantify a great part of the phenolic compounds in such foods. These compounds have a chemopreventive effect in humans and a great influence on the stability of oxidation levels of food. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

SMOS satellite instrument comes alive

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(European Space Agency) The MIRAS instrument on ESA's SMOS satellite, launched earlier this month, has been switched on and is operating normally. MIRAS will map soil moisture and ocean salinity to improve our understanding of the role these two key variables play in regulating Earth's water cycle. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Engineer designs micro-endoscope to seek out early signs of cancer

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Florida) Traditional endoscopes provide a peek inside patients' bodies. Now, a University of Florida engineering researcher is designing ones capable of a full inspection. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

MedWorm: International Medicine and Public Health

Lawmakers Commit to Women's Health and Rights by 2015 - 28 October 2009

Statement by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on Killing in Kabul - 28 October 2009

Creating a New Consensus on Population - 02 November 2009

UNFPA Report Linking Climate Change, Women to Be Released on 18 November - 04 November 2009

Five Ways of Looking at Maternal Health: The Mothers of Ethiopia - 11 November 2009

Country on the Move: Rwanda’s Family Planning Efforts Begin to Pay Off - 11 November 2009

Maternal Mortality Halved in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, but Too Many Women Still Die Giving Life - 12 November 2009

Largest International Family Planning Conference in 15 Years Convenes in Uganda - 12 November 2009

Promoting the Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity in Diverse Cultural and Religious Settings - 13 November 2009

Melting Glaciers Alter a Way of Life: Adapting to Harsh New Realities in Bolivia - 16 November 2009

Facing the Floods: Women Cope With Climate Change in Viet Nam - 16 November 2009

Looking at Climate Change through the Eyes of the Young: Youth Report Tells Their Stories - 18 November 2009

Women Central to Efforts to Deal With Climate Change, Says New UNFPA Report - 18 November 2009

Experts and Policy Makers Renew their Commitment to Family Planning - 19 November 2009

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25 November 2009

RIGHTS-LAOS: How Women Cope With Disability - Part 1

CLIMATE CHANGE: Health at Risk

GENDER-AFRICA: Some Progress Amidst Continuing Challenges

CONFERENCE: Foro Latinoamericano sobre VIH/SIDA

Rights Groups Urge Clinton to Address Treatment of Rape Survivors in Sudan Policy

Floods and Food

Lawmakers Commit to Women's Health and Rights by 2015 - 28 October 2009

Statement by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on Killing in Kabul - 28 October 2009

Creating a New Consensus on Population - 02 November 2009

UNFPA Report Linking Climate Change, Women to Be Released on 18 November - 04 November 2009

Five Ways of Looking at Maternal Health: The Mothers of Ethiopia - 11 November 2009

Country on the Move: Rwanda’s Family Planning Efforts Begin to Pay Off - 11 November 2009

Maternal Mortality Halved in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, but Too Many Women Still Die Giving Life - 12 November 2009

Largest International Family Planning Conference in 15 Years Convenes in Uganda - 12 November 2009

Promoting the Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity in Diverse Cultural and Religious Settings - 13 November 2009

Melting Glaciers Alter a Way of Life: Adapting to Harsh New Realities in Bolivia - 16 November 2009

Facing the Floods: Women Cope With Climate Change in Viet Nam - 16 November 2009

Looking at Climate Change through the Eyes of the Young: Youth Report Tells Their Stories - 18 November 2009

Women Central to Efforts to Deal With Climate Change, Says New UNFPA Report - 18 November 2009

Experts and Policy Makers Give a New Impulse to Family Planning - 19 November 2009

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25 November 2009

DEVELOPMENT: Climate Change Likely to Increase African Hunger Woes

DEVELOPMENT: Child Rights Make Headway, But Millions Still Suffering

Q&A: Recognise the Benefits of Slowing Population Growth

AFRICA: Growing Use of Cellphones for Family Planning

RIGHTS-LAOS: How Women Cope With Disability - Part 1

Agriculture can adapt to climate change

Maize genome offers hope of improved varieties

Libya and UN agency enter pact to boost food security, sustainable development

Urgent aid needed to restore Indonesia's quake-ravaged health services - UN

More must be done to tackle global crisis' of road traffic deaths, says Ban

Ultrasound enhances noninvasive Down syndrome tests

Effect of real-time CPR feedback reported at resuscitation science symposium

Parent training complements medication for treating behavioral problems in children with PDD

Saving the single cysteine: New antioxidant system found

Promoting healthy skepticism in the news: Helping journalists get it right

High blood pressure easy to miss in children with kidney disease

Funeral industry workers exposed to formaldehyde face higher risk of leukemia

Possible link studied between childhood abuse and early cellular aging

Special sessions announced for World Congress on Osteoporosis 2010 - IOF WCO - ECCEO10

Researchers identify role of gene in tumor development, growth and progression

Genetic analysis helps dissect molecular basis of cardiovascular disease

Evolution of evolution: An NSF-sponsored webcast featuring Mohamed Noor

Radiology procedure may help increase long-term survival in patients with severe liver cancer

Chest ultrasound as useful as chest CT in the eval of pediatric patients with complicated pneumonia

Simple blood test could reduce repeat breast MRI scans in premenopausal women with irregular periods

Medical imaging technique identifies very common condition in women that often goes undiagnosed

Reasonable alternative to invasive biopsy of palpable breast lesions with benign imaging features identified

Barn personnel experience higher-than-average rates of respiratory symptoms

From toxic dust and algae to ill winds from Africa

ESC to give talks on diabetes in 3 cities in China

Older problem drinkers use more alcohol than do their younger counterparts

Novel K-anonymity algorithm safeguards access to data

Discovery of new type of immune cells regulating inflammation in chronic diseases

Gaining a better picture of lung disease

Rare pancreatic cancer patients may live longer when treated with radiation therapy

More than powerful! German research computer QPACE is the most energy efficient in the world

Dispensing prescription drugs in 3-month supplies reduces drug costs by a third

National awards recognize outstanding contributors to health research

Novel K-anonimity algorithm safeguards access to data

Projections of savings from health IT are baseless, Harvard researchers say

Researchers begin to decipher metabolism of sexual assault drug

Q&A: Health systems innovation with Gill Samuels

Don't ignore agriculture in climate talks, experts warn

More must be done to tackle global crisis' of road traffic deaths, says Ban