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Science News for December 11, 2000


Blocking enzyme imprisons malaria parasites

Researchers found a way to prevent infectious malaria particles from bursting out of their protective sacs by blocking the activity of a protein-snipping enzyme called protease. This discovery suggests that protease inhibitors could be used to treat malaria infection and keep the infectious particles imprisoned until they deteriorate.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2000

HIV research takes promising new direction

Researchers have discovered a new family of anti-viral compounds, guanidinoglycosides, that target the genetic structure of HIV essential to its replication. These compounds aim to prevent HIV from forming and spreading throughout the body by targeting the 'Rev' protein responsible for producing and spreading infected cells.

Lifting the pressure on holiday party perfectionists

Perfectionists experience anxiety and depression when minor hassles pile up during the holidays. To mitigate this, Blankstein suggests planning ahead, involving others in tasks, and accepting help from loved ones. His study based on 443 university students provides valuable insights into perfectionism's impact on mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Counseling Psychology·DateDec 11, 2000

Difficult mood disorder successfully treated

A large-scale study has found lamotrigine to be safe and effective in preventing episodes of mood swings in patients with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. The study, published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, showed that 41% of patients who received lamotrigine remained stable without relapse for six months, compared to 26% on placebo.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Cleveland·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2000