Another Benefit of Endorphins?

A Science News article titled 'Runner's High' May Also Strengthen Hearts, indicates that substances known as opioids, which our bodies naturally synthesize, may do more than make us feel good. Natural opioids resulting from exercise were the object of analysis during research conducted with rats. Researchers from the University of Iowa have found out that what makes us feel good may also protect us from heart attacks. The details are at the linked article.

An Experimental Cosmetic Procedure

A Yahoo news story, appearing on Dec 16, 2007, titled Stem cells used to fix breast defects, describes a new experimental approach to plastic surgery intended to remedy effects sometimes resulting from a surgical procedure known as lumpectomy. Lumpectomies are performed as surgical treatments of breast cancer and can cause breasts to look different from each other.

The experimental tests were conducted in Japan and entailed liposuction as a means of obtaining fat from the bodies of breast cancer patients. Stem cells from the liposuction are then implanted in the relevant breast as a cosmetic treatment.

Is Influenza Virus Really Transmitted More Readily in Winter?

A New York Times article titled Study Shows Why the Flu Likes Winter (published December 5, 2007) indicates there may be valid scientific reasons backing the common wisdom that infections are more likely to spread in the winter months. Properties of the influenza virus, which seems to be more stable in cold dry air, would explain the phenomenon. The nature of the virus makes it more probable that the influenza virus will spread during colder, dryer weather.

Research results, supporting the conclusion, were published in the October 19th issue of PLOS Pathogens. The paper was authored by Dr. Palese. The research involved guinea pigs and variation of air temperature and humidity to determine causal links to viral transmission.

Honey- A Natural Cough Medicine

A Yahoo news story touts honey as a cough medicine that is especially good for children. A teaspoon may be all that is needed to provide a safe and effective antidote to coughing. In fact some cough medicines may not be safe for children. Yet even honey is not recommended for children under the age of one due to a rare possiblity of botulism.