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Science News for June 15, 1999


Cardiac surgery patients at higher risk

A new study found that cardiac surgery patients with serum potassium levels below 3.5 mmol/L are twice as likely to experience arrhythmias and a doubled need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Investigators recommend screening and replenishing potassium on a case-by-case basis.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateJun 15, 1999

Jefferson researchers find access to new methods of HIV prevention for pregnant women and newborns may depend on where they were receiving care

Researchers found that HIV-infected pregnant women receiving care at specialized centers or state-funded sites were more likely to receive antiretroviral therapy, reducing transmission by up to two-thirds. The study highlights the importance of access to quality medical care in preventing mother-to-newborn transmission of AIDS.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 15, 1999

High stress hormone levels impair memory

Researchers at WashU Medicine found that high doses of cortisol, produced in response to stress, can significantly impair memory performance after several days. Memory impairment was seen only in those who received a high dose of cortisol and only after four days of treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJun 15, 1999

Depression may shrink key brain structure

Researchers found that women with a history of depression had smaller hippocampal volumes than those who never had been depressed. This is significant because the hippocampus plays a crucial role in learning and memory. Treatment not only prevents suffering but may also limit long-term damage to the brain.