Hitting early, swine flu claims 11 more kids in US WASHINGTON - As the swine flu outbreak strikes the U.S. early and hard, health officials note a worrisome number of child deaths and warn that supplies of vaccine will remain scarce for at least the next couple of weeks. Chinese herbs show promise for diabetes prevention NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A number of traditional Chinese herbs may help control blood sugar levels in people at high risk of diabetes, a new research review suggests. Australia rate hike a good sign for world economy WASHINGTON - A move by Australia's central bank to raise its benchmark interest rate, the first major economy to do so since the financial crisis worsened last fall, may signal a vote of confidence in a global recovery.
Blanchett smolders in US in 'Streetcar Named Desire' WASHINGTON (AFP) - Australian star Cate Blanchett is winning standing ovations and rave reviews from US audiences for her heart-rending performance in the Tennessee Williams classic "A Streetcar Named Desire."
Asian leaders pitch rival blocs to boost global clout HUA HIN, Thailand (AFP) - Asian leaders heard competing plans from Australia and Japan for a massive EU-style community covering half the world's population as they wrapped up their annual summit on Sunday.