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Science News for September 1, 2008


TGen and Washington University researchers discover new approach to treating endometrial cancer

Researchers at TGen and Washington University School of Medicine have discovered a new approach to treating endometrial cancer using a commercially available inhibitor drug. The study found that the drug can stop tumor growth and kill cancer cells, even in cases where the tumors contain a commonly occurring mutant gene.

Impact of school-based programs

School-based programs have been shown to be effective in reducing prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity through interventions such as physical activity education and nutritional education. The URMEL-ICE program demonstrates a significant reduction in body fat mass among children after one year of participation.

Depression common among Rwandan youth who head households

A study in Rwanda found that nearly half of orphaned youth aged 12-24 who head households meet criteria for depression. The combined effects of the genocide and HIV epidemic have left many orphans vulnerable to poverty, social marginalization, and poor health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateSep 1, 2008

Global warming greatest in past decade

Researchers confirm that surface temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere were warmer over the last 10 years than any time during the last 1300 years. The study uses a variety of proxy data, including tree rings, marine and lake sediment cores, ice cores, and coral cores, to derive a long-term temperature record.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 2008

PET scans help identify mechanism underlying seasonal mood changes

Researchers found that serotonin transporter binding potential values were higher in fall and winter, suggesting a link between lower serotonin levels and seasonal mood changes. The study suggests that variations in brain serotonin levels may explain why people feel happier on sunny days and more sluggish during the dark winter season.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateSep 1, 2008

How often do hip and knee replacements need revision?

A comprehensive study of hip and knee replacement surgeries in England found that one in seventy-five patients require revision after three years. The research suggests that different patterns may emerge over a longer follow-up period, emphasizing the need for further research to evaluate surgical procedures and types of implants.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 1, 2008

Children of older fathers more likely to have bipolar disorder

A recent study found that children born to older fathers are at higher risk of developing bipolar disorder. The study, which analyzed data from over 13,000 patients with bipolar disorder, suggests that advancing paternal age may be associated with an increased risk of complex neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateSep 1, 2008