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Science News for October 27, 2009


Epilepsy drugs could treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers have discovered a potential new function for anti-epileptic drugs in treating neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The study found that neurons were protected after treatment with T-type calcium-channel blockers, suggesting the possibility of developing new treatments for neuronal injury.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·DateOct 27, 2009

Married with children the key to happiness?

A new study published in Springer's Journal of Happiness Studies found that raising children improves life satisfaction for married people, while having no impact on unmarried individuals. The analysis takes into account individual characteristics and suggests that marriage is a key factor in experiencing happiness.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateOct 27, 2009

Anxious pregnant mothers more likely to have smaller babies

A new study reveals that anxious pregnant women are more likely to have affected babies, with anxiety during the third trimester predicting significantly smaller births. Women with severe anxiety in the first and second trimesters also show significant impact on birth outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateOct 27, 2009

Exercise is good medicine for lymphoma patients

A three-year study by University of Alberta researchers found that aerobic exercise training significantly improved physical functioning and overall quality of life in patients with lymphoma. The study showed a 46.4% complete response rate in the exercise group, compared to 30.8% in the usual care group.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalClinical Oncology·DateOct 27, 2009

Endowment fund to support ICT research

A new endowment fund will support ICT research at CSIRO Australia, enhancing the nation's wireless technologies capabilities. The fund will also provide scholarships and fellowships for students across various disciplines, addressing key skills shortages.

Older patients with dementia at increased risk for flu mortality

A study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older patients with dementia are diagnosed with flu less frequently, have shorter hospital stays, but a higher rate of death. The study highlights the need for refined guidelines on flu immunization and treatment in this vulnerable population.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 27, 2009

Global warming cycles threaten endangered primate species

Researchers analyzed global warming's impact on four New World monkey species, finding a significant drop in their populations during climate fluctuations. The team used statistical models to investigate how food resources and tree responses related to temperature and rainfall patterns.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 27, 2009

French male bears in immediate need of more females

A recent study published in PLoS ONE found that French brown bears are at risk of extinction due to a lack of females. The researchers suggest that relocating new bears could not only boost the population size but also reverse some of the causes of the decline by introducing more females.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 27, 2009

Ant fight!

Researchers isolated and synthesized scent molecules from Argentine ant colonies, which induced aggression in worker ants when applied. The findings suggest that these chemical cues play a crucial role in defining colony membership, shedding light on the complex social systems of ants.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateOct 27, 2009

Plastic Surgery 2009 news briefs

Key findings from the ASPS Plastic Surgery 2009 conference include advancements in face and hand transplantation, with a focus on improving donor availability and patient selection. Additionally, plastic surgeons will discuss innovative technologies and techniques for repairing traumatic battlefield injuries and restoring function.

Families suffer from problem gambling

A study published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy reveals that problem gambling has a profound impact on families, affecting their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. The authors emphasize the need for family-based therapy solutions to address this growing issue.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Marital and Family Therapy·DateOct 27, 2009

Crushing cigarettes in a virtual reality environment reduces tobacco addiction

A study published in CyberPsychology and Behavior found that smokers who crushed virtual cigarettes in a virtual reality environment had significantly reduced nicotine dependence and higher rates of tobacco abstinence compared to those who grasped virtual balls. The treatment group stayed in the program longer, with higher rates of smo...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberPsychology & Behavior·DateOct 27, 2009