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.