Exercise, diet change effective in delaying onset of type 2 diabetes
The Diabetes Prevention Program, a research center whose participants include Northwestern, the University of Chicago and the University of Miami, released new results last week regarding avoiding the development of type 2 diabetes. The study, whose participants were all at high risk for developing the illness, showed two ways to help push back its development. Those who changed their lifestyles with regards to diet and exercise delayed the onset of type 2 diabetes by an average of four years, while those who took the medicine Metformin averaged a two-year delay.
Group-oriented culture decreases chance of developing depression
Depression, according to a recent NU study, has as much to do with where a person is raised as their genes. The study, released last week, said a person who lives in a culture focusing on group success is much less likely to develop depression than a person who lives in a society focusing on individual goals.
The study does not dispute the common belief that a person’s genes are the most important aspect in depression bouts. It does say, however, that the depression genes are more likely to come out in the individualistic societies, specifically Western cultures.
Chemistry professor’s Halloween show brings dancing to classroom
Chemistry Prof. Eberhard Zwergel dazzled crowds of students with explosions, fires and other bits of scientific trickery at his annual Halloween show Friday. The show was presented during Zwergel’s 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. freshman chemistry classes. Students not in the class were welcome to attend if they could find seating. The show, which was a series of experiments, included music and dancing. Student performance groups including Tonik Tap, the Ladycats and the NU marching band participated in the show.
Younger doctors more likely to preemptively diagnose kidney illness
An NU study released last week showed younger doctors are more likely to refer patients to doctors for preemptive kidney surgery than experienced doctors. The study, conducted between March 2007 and May 2009, concluded older doctors may lack knowledge regarding preemptive transplants, and suggested training for doctors with more years on the job.
