Researchers found that tricyclic antidepressant nortriptyline is more effective in treating post-stroke depression than selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The study, conducted at the University of Iowa, compared nortriptyline with fluoxetine and a placebo in 104 patients within six months of their strokes.
Researchers report encouraging early results in a novel gene therapy designed to improve the clinical course of hemophilia B, with two patients requiring significantly less infused clotting factor to treat symptoms. No adverse side effects were experienced by any of the patients treated.
Researchers have developed a new and painless way to measure glucose levels in diabetics using low-frequency ultrasound. The method, described in a recent study, involves making the skin permeable with ultrasound waves, allowing glucose to cross the skin and be measured continuously for up to 12 hours.
A study by Emory University researchers found that Wernicke's area, a region of the brain known for language processing, also monitors nonverbal predictability. This suggests that our ability to acquire language may stem from our subconscious recognition of predictable events.
A recent study of outpatients taking prescription drugs found that drug complications may be long lasting and have additional negative consequences, including patient dissatisfaction with care. The most common side effects were gastrointestinal ailments, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and tiredness.
Researchers found that apoE4, a high-risk version of the lipoprotein, directly promotes the development of neuritic plaques in the brain by enabling amyloid-beta to form into hair-shaped fibrils. ApoE3 had less damaging effects. The study used a mouse model and showed that apoE interaction with amyloid-beta leads to neurodegeneration.
Researchers found that the inferior parietal lobule is smaller in people with schizophrenia and 'built backward' from normal patterns in men. This abnormality may account for symptoms of distorted reality in schizophrenic patients.
Experts discuss the impact of brain development research on child development and public policy, particularly day care, at a symposium hosted by Temple University. The forum explores serious implications of John Bruer's book, citing lack of data to support the 'zero to three' theory.
Researchers found that brain steroid allopregnanolone mediates many of alcohol's effects, including anti-anxiety and anticonvulsant actions. The study suggests that blocking this compound may inhibit alcohol's sedative-hypnotic effects.
A new study suggests that more school competition, particularly from private schools, can lead to higher teacher paychecks. In Ohio, the research found that areas with many public and private schools could see teachers earn up to $1,000 more per year.
A new ultrasound technique using sound can painlessly extract important molecules from the skin, opening up possibilities for non-invasive glucose monitoring in diabetics. The researchers also discovered that this approach could be combined with drug delivery via ultrasound, paving the way for a potential wristwatch or patch.
A NIDA-supported survey found that two-thirds of NYC clinicians are willing to provide methadone maintenance treatment in their offices. This could expand access to treatment for the 600,000 diagnosed heroin addicts in the US who currently receive fewer than 20% of treatment.
Researchers from Clemson University and UK scientists found that synthetic cannabinoids reduce spasticity and tremor in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. The discovery may lead to treatments without psychoactive side effects.
A study found that human presence near bald eagle nests decreased their brooding time by 59% and feeding bouts by 20%, potentially impacting nestling eagles' growth rates and survival. The researchers warn of the need for management strategies to mitigate human impact on wildlife populations.
Researchers found that delaying treatment by nine months results in significant permanent damage and reduced disease progression. Early therapy with a second-line agent like Hydroxychloroquine reduces the need for more expensive treatments, including surgery.
Scientists have imaged the pressure fronts in a colossal cosmic 'weather system' produced by the collision of two giant clusters of galaxies. The data reveals a bright but relatively cool central region embedded in a large cloud of hot gas. This is the first detailed look at the late stages of this merger process.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created a new line of transgenic mice that spontaneously develop skin tumors resembling human basal cell carcinomas. The mice produce abnormally large amounts of Gli2 protein, which plays a key role in the development of these common skin tumors.
A survey of family physicians found that those with a prior history of depression or somatic complaints were less likely to consider the possibility of serious illnesses and order testing. Cognitive shortcuts can be helpful but also lead to false generalizations, highlighting the need for awareness among physicians.
Scientists analyzed chromosome 22 structure and found unstable areas with repetitive sequences where genes are prone to rearrangements. These low-copy repeats may cause the loss of important genes in chromosome 22q11 deletion syndrome, a common genetic disorder affecting hundreds of patients.
NMSU researchers found that eating three-quarters of a cup of pecans daily lowered LDL cholesterol by 10% after four weeks and by 6% after eight weeks. Pecans also provide monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, and fiber, making them a part of a balanced diet.
The World Institute for Disaster Risk Management aims to apply research to mitigate disaster losses. It will work with governments, agencies, private enterprises, and NGOs to create a network for applied research, implementation, and information dissemination.
University of Florida researchers have reversed diabetes in mice by injecting cells that produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. The cells were grown into small, insulin-secreting organs and implanted just beneath the skin, allowing them to function like an endocrine pancreas within days.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified a possible pathway to protect heart cells from damage caused by doxorubicin, an anti-cancer drug. By understanding how caspases trigger cell death, they may develop targeted treatments using anti-oxidants like vitamins E and C.
The University of Toronto has discovered a new species of giant ground sloth, challenging the long-held assumption that mammals from South America were inferior to those in North America. The study suggests that these groups thrived for nearly two million years after migration across the Panamanian land bridge.
Patients with macular degeneration experienced improved moods and increased use of visual aids after completing a six-week behavioral self-management program. The program also boosted confidence in daily functioning and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
A team of researchers at the University of Toronto has discovered a gene called Mgat5 that affects cancer growth. By knocking out this gene in mice, they found a significant reduction in breast and lung cancer growth, suggesting that sugar structures play a role in promoting tumor development.
Researchers found changes in brain cells in rats treated with anti-depressant and obesity drugs, including shriveling and abnormal corkscrew shapes. The study raises concerns about the prolonged use of such commonly prescribed drugs as fluoxetine and sertraline.
Researchers found that intelligent adolescents tend to postpone any kind of lesser sexual activity, as well as first sex, compared to their less intelligent peers. The association between intelligence and refraining from sexual intercourse was stronger for girls than boys, and age-dependent.
The EPA has chosen Washington University in St. Louis to monitor fine particle matter air pollution in the St. Louis metropolitan area, as part of a comprehensive and collaborative program. The project aims to investigate relationships between pollutants and human illnesses, including cardiovascular disease and pulmonary illnesses.
A new study found that 32-35% of patients in weight loss, headache, and chronic pain programs dropped out due to factors like emotional distress and low self-efficacy. The researchers suggest investigating variables such as support from family and friends, and the therapeutic alliance between clients and program leaders.
A new study suggests that open family discussion about stressful thoughts and feelings can improve emotional well-being in kidney transplant patients. Patients who felt their families were supportive reported fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Researchers at Duke University developed heat-triggered liposomes that can deliver anti-cancer drugs to tumors, delaying growth and eradicating human tumors in mice. The new technology uses specially engineered liposomes that release their cargo rapidly when heated to temperatures just above normal body temperature.
A new study links lower socioeconomic status, measured by education level, to increased psychological factors like hostility. This may lead to poor health outcomes due to increased physiological activity or strain, as well as unhealthy behaviors such as smoking.
Researchers found that two-thirds of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions were given to patients with negative throat cultures. Inaccurate diagnoses and lack of immediate diagnostic tools contribute to the problem. Experts blame current diagnostic methods and advocate for improved solutions.
Individuals treated for depression use fewer routine medical services, but more outpatient services than the general population, according to a 10-year analysis. Treatment is associated with reduced non-routine medical utilization over time.
Researcher Professor Heather Jackson spent 15 years studying marginalia in books to uncover insights into cultural and reading habits of the past. Her findings suggest that handwritten notes left in books can be a valuable source of historical information, providing unique perspectives on authors' intentions and readers' reactions.
A new study by Robert Pearson, Howard Wachtel, and Kristie Ebi found that children living near heavily trafficked streets have a six-fold increased risk of developing childhood cancer. The researchers used street-traffic densities to assess exposure to air pollutants from vehicle emissions.
A new study by the University of Toronto found that children who had a daily activity program in Grades 1 to 6 showed no advantages in aerobic fitness 20 years later. The study highlights the importance of developing lasting skills and attitudes in physical education programs.
Researchers aim to recruit at least 100 African-American families with a history of prostate cancer to participate in the PROGRESS study. The study seeks to identify genes linked to inherited prostate cancer, which may help diagnose, treat, and prevent the disease.
A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a father's percent body fat predicted the pattern of weight gain in their daughters. The researchers analyzed data from 47 pre-pubescent girls, finding that only the father's weight correlated with the daughter's weight gain patterns.
Researchers analyzed 15,414 student and faculty yearbook photos to pinpoint the age when girls begin smiling more often than boys. The study found that girls start smiling significantly more than boys as early as the fourth grade, with a widening gender gap by high school.
Researchers at Purdue University have solved the structures of two large icosahedral viruses, providing insights into their assembly and potential applications in antiviral agents. The viruses' shells are made up of large building blocks joined primarily in clusters of three, forming stable and highly symmetrical structures.
The USGS is launching a citizen science program to monitor frogs and toads across the United States. Volunteers will collect data on local amphibian populations, helping scientists understand the decline of these species worldwide.
VRAM memory has the potential to replace mechanically driven storage media, reducing transistors needed for lower cost and retaining information without constant refreshing. The technology is well-suited for space, avionics, and shipboard applications due to its high-density, non-volatility, radiation-hardness, and low-power attributes.
A study found that genetic variations can cause individuals to be more resistant to a cholesterol-lowering diet or at greater cardiovascular risk from a high-fat diet. Apolipoprotein B gene polymorphisms were associated with increased plasma total cholesterol concentrations in certain genotypes.
A recent study found that the genetic marker associated with periodontal disease in people of European heritage is barely present in Chinese populations. This suggests that oral hygiene habits, smoking, and other risk factors may be more important in explaining the high prevalence of periodontal disease in Chinese populations.
Researchers have identified a bacterial strain called T1 that can break down toluene, a hazardous industrial solvent. This discovery could lead to more cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for cleaning up contaminated sites, reducing the need for expensive excavation and disposal methods.
A 12-week study found that carotenes and vitamin E supplements reduced sunburn intensity in fair-skinned individuals. The duration of supplementation was more effective than dosage in protecting against sunburn damage.
Researchers identified a biological marker that predicts breast cancer return in some women, with higher levels of damaged p53 protein found in those whose cancer recurred within four years. The finding may lead to personalized treatments, such as higher doses of radiation and novel therapies.
A recent study reveals that children with Down syndrome are susceptible to severe periodontal disease due to factors such as inadequate oral hygiene and congenital deformities. Research suggests that proper plaque control can help ward off the disease, emphasizing the importance of regular dental visits and education for parents.
A study found African American children exhibited more risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease than white children, despite healthier diets. The authors cautioned that the diets in this study were of poor quality according to national recommendations.
A new study by Dr. Hilke Brockmann found that German mothers' attitudes towards the sex of their children have changed over time in response to changes in welfare regimes. In contrast to Asian and African countries where sons are preferred, Germany's high level of female participation in the labor market may lead to a girl-preference.
A University at Buffalo professor is using the case-study approach to revolutionize the teaching of science, resulting in improved student attendance and engagement rates. The grant will establish a national center for case study teaching in science, providing faculty with training and resources.
Researchers are conducting a national genetic study to identify the genetic markers that contribute to Parkinson's disease. The study aims to enroll 600 pairs of siblings with Parkinson's disease, using information from the U.S. Human Genome Project to isolate genetic markers.
A recent study reveals a new parameter regulating cell attachment, which is influenced by the physical properties of the surrounding environment. The rigidity of the matrix affects cell adhesion dynamics, leading to the formation of different types of adhesions.
Research suggests that emergency rooms can reduce children's pain and anxiety during procedures by using techniques such as topical anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and psychological interventions. Effective communication with parents is also crucial in minimizing their own anxiety while ensuring their child's comfort.
A study found that male mangabeys in secondary forests weigh less and are more likely to leave their groups, making them vulnerable to predators. The research suggests that logging may impact the health and behavior of primates in African forests.
Researchers have discovered chemical deposits from 1815 Tambora and 1883 Krakatau eruptions in a Wyoming ice core, providing a unique insight into past climatic changes. The analysis indicates that major shifts in climate can occur on a 10-year scale, raising concerns about potential future climatic changes.
Researchers found four distinct groups with varying adherence rates, medication use, and lifestyle habits. Group A and B members have better health outcomes due to effective medication and lifestyle regimens.
New research suggests that mother baboons do not use their voices to call back to lost infants, contrary to previous assumptions. This lack of 'theory of mind' is believed to be due to the inability to recognize that other animals have thoughts and feelings apart from their own.