‘News and Research’ at Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life, Page 34

According to Chinese and European experts at a conference in China, a drug commonly used to treat schizophrenia prevents and treats SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), the deadly flu-like disease caused by the coronavirus which killed hundreds and sickened thousands in 2003.

The International Conference on Bipolar Disorder, the only venue in the world devoted exclusively to highlighting new research into bipolar disorder, has heard research which brings scientists closer to understanding genetic underpinnings of bipolar disorder.

New research shows that humans, like many other complex animals, freeze when encountering a threat. Heart rates slow and body sway decreases, in an ancestral reaction which has long helped animals to avoid being noticed by a potential predator.

Along with the obvious benefit of chemotherapy — surviving cancer — comes a secondary problem that is often not well understood by friends, family, or even cancer patients themselves. Referred to simply as ‘chemobrain’, its symptoms include memory problems, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. The problem occurs in as many as 99 percent of breast and ovarian cancer patients, and until now, little was known about how to treat it.

New research indicates that women who drink to excess are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. The report also found the lowest rates of anxiety and depression for women in their 30s were for those who drank lightly.