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Science News for June 12, 2000


Study shows a combination of Antabuse and buprenorphine may be effective in treating those addicted to cocaine

A study combining disulfiram (Antabuse) with buprenorphine found that participants who received both experienced longer periods of cocaine abstinence and achieved continuous abstinence sooner than those receiving only buprenorphine. No significant differences were observed in opiate abstinence between the two groups.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 12, 2000

Less-coercive policies boost child support

A new study by Cornell University and the University of Colorado found that state child-support guidelines increase the probability of unwed mothers receiving awards, often increasing their size. In contrast, guidelines for divorced or separated women with children have little impact on award levels.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Human Resources·DateJun 12, 2000

Gene discovery provides link between neurological disorders

Researchers discovered a new gene, neurofilament light, associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which affects peripheral nerves and leads to progressive weakness. The defect is linked to demyelination, resulting in axonal loss and muscle denervation, also seen in other neurological disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

SourceThe American Journal of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 12, 2000

Estrogen fails test as Alzheimer's treatment

A study published in Neurology found that estrogen had no effect on improving memory and mental functions in postmenopausal women with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease after a 12-week period. Researchers suggest further trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of estrogen in preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 12, 2000