April 30, 2009
Tufted Bacteria Cause Infection In Premature Babies
Bacteria that normally reside on the skin of healthy people can cause serious infections in premature babies. Scientists have now found an explanation for why a certain kind of staphylococcus can attach itself to the skin and quickly develop dynamic ecosystems: the bacteria are like tufted, self-adhesive hairballs.
Pork Products Are Safe To Consume, Human Exposure To Pigs Will Not Infect You, Says American Veterinary Medical Association
Human exposure to pigs and the consumption of pork products will not increase your risk of becoming infected with swine flu, says AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association). Pork products are safe to eat, the association stresses. Dr. Ron DeHaven, CEO, AVMA said "This disease is transmitted from human to human and, as far as we know right now, it does not involve pigs, livestock or pets.
Folic Acid Treatment May Help Allergies, Asthma
Folic acid, or vitamin B9, essential for red blood cell health and long known to reduce the risk of spinal birth defects, may also suppress allergic reactions and lessen the severity of allergy and asthma symptoms, according to new research from the Johns Hopkins Children's Center.
AVMA Advises Consumers That Pork And Pork Products Are Safe For Consumption
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is advising consumers concerned about the outbreak of the new virus being called swine influenza that neither exposure to pigs nor consumption of pork are risk factors for infection. "This disease is transmitted from human to human and, as far as we know right now, it does not involve pigs, livestock or pets," explains Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA.
Dairy Better For Bones Than Calcium Carbonate
A Purdue University study shows dairy has an advantage over calcium carbonate in promoting bone growth and strength. Connie Weaver, distinguished professor and head of the food and nutrition department, found that the bones of rats fed nonfat dry milk were longer, wider, more dense and stronger than those of rats fed a diet with calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is the most common form of calcium used in calcium-fortified foods and supplements.