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Science News for December 13, 2005


Parents of children with cancer suffer post-traumatic stress symptoms, both immediate and lingering

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that parents of children with cancer often suffer from post-traumatic stress symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and heightened arousal. The studies suggest that these symptoms can be just as severe as those experienced by patients themselves.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateDec 13, 2005

New antidepressant drug increases 'brain's own cannabis'

Researchers have discovered a new drug that raises the level of endocannabinoids, providing measurable antidepressant effects. The study found similar results to commonly prescribed antidepressants, suggesting URB597 as a safer, non-addictive alternative for pain and depression treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

Peacetime grenades harm environment

A Swedish study found that peacetime grenade stockpiling leads to environmental harm from metal mining and explosive residues. Replacing plastic with copper could make grenades more environmentally friendly, according to the authors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateDec 13, 2005

Ancient humans brought bottle gourds to the Americas from Asia

A team of researchers assembled ancient gourd remnants across the Americas and found they matched modern gourds in Asia, suggesting a pre-pottery Asian origin. The findings indicate that people arrived in the New World with domesticated plants and tools, changing our understanding of the founding of the Americas.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

New study finds anabolic steroids may be addictive

A new study using an animal model suggests that anabolic steroids can be addictive. Hamsters showed a marked preference for testosterone, nandrolone or drostanolone, indicating the drugs' potential for addiction. The research highlights the need for awareness among coaches and mental health professionals about this risk.

Progress slow in improving hospitals' patient safety systems

Despite extensive research and calls for reform, US hospitals' patient safety systems have made only modest progress. The study found that while some areas, like surgery, have implemented effective safety measures, others, such as medication management, have seen improvements but are already at high baseline levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 13, 2005