A study published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that stroke victims are at twice the risk of suicide compared to the general population. The increased risk remains for up to five years after the stroke, with patients under 50 and those hospitalized for less than two weeks being particularly vulnerable.
A study of African-American residents aged 65 and older found that 23% had cognitive impairment without dementia, with rates increasing with age. The majority of cases lacked a medical cause, suggesting potential transient nature
A study of 27,541 full-time staff in Finland found that workers do not typically extend the weekend by taking sick leave on Mondays and Fridays. Despite the widespread assumption that these days are common absences due to illness, the research reveals that Monday and Friday absences were actually lower than other days of the week.
Researchers found a virus similar to HEV in rats in Los Angeles, which may contribute to the high rates of HEV antibodies in some inner city areas. The study suggests that infected rats could be a source of exposure for humans and highlights the need for further testing.
Research suggests that daily exposure to aircraft noise may raise blood pressure levels. People living in areas with higher average or maximum noise levels are more likely to develop hypertension.
A new study found that activating immune system cells called iNKT cells can protect mice from developing diabetes. The researchers discovered that increasing the production of these cells could be a basis for preventive treatments for people with a genetic risk of diabetes.
Men with stable chronic heart failure experienced improved sexual activity and quality of life after regular cycling. The study found significant improvements in endothelial function, measured through brachial artery dilation and oxygen uptake, resulting from the exercise routine.
A study of two recent anthrax cases among postal workers highlights the urgent need for better disease detection capacities in public health and clinical communities. The cases demonstrate the importance of rapid lines of communication between medicine and public health to diagnose and treat patients timely.
Researchers found that EECP therapy increases levels of angiogenic factors, promoting the development of collateral vessels and improving blood flow. The study suggests EECP may be an alternative to invasive procedures for treating some Americans with angina.
A new agency is proposed to enhance postmarketing surveillance and dissemination of information on adverse drug reactions. The current system relying on pharmaceutical companies' voluntary warnings may not be adequate, highlighting the need for a parallel agency to protect patients.
Older people living in inadequately heated homes are three times as likely to suffer from chronic ill health. Those who reported being cold most of the time during winter were nearly five times as likely to experience reduced daily activities and poor health.
The new guidelines aim to support Starbucks' commitment to environmentally and socially responsible coffee production. The program rewards suppliers who meet key standards in four categories: quality, social conditions, environmental concerns, and economic issues.
Researchers found that moderate alcohol consumption can lower arterial stiffness in people over 50, with the greatest benefit seen at older ages. The study, which examined data from 563 volunteers between 20 and 90 years old, suggests that a daily drink may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
A new study funded by the NHLBI shows that a type of implantable heart pump can extend and improve the lives of terminally ill patients with end stage heart failure. The HeartMate LVAD was shown to have a 52% one-year survival rate, compared to 25% for those receiving standard medical management.
Researchers found that chest blows from objects such as baseballs or swings can lead to commotio cordis, a type of sudden cardiac death. The study identified 124 cases, with most victims being male children under 12 years old, and emphasized the importance of public education and awareness in preventing these incidents.
Electrons accelerated by supernova shock waves can achieve speeds approaching light speed, according to a new study. The research uses computer simulations to investigate the behavior of electrons in magnetic fields and oscillating electric fields, suggesting a novel method for producing high-energy charged particles.
Research finds that first-time fathers struggle to reconcile their roles as providers with being supportive partners and home builders. The study highlights the tension between societal expectations of the 'good father' ideal and the reality of modern family dynamics, which can impact men's psychological wellbeing.
A new study has identified the key step in simple motor learning, which involves the reduced response to glutamate in Purkinje cells. By examining this process, researchers hope to create a mouse that can't reduce the number of glutamate receptors on its Purkinje cells and test if it affects learning.
Men with shorter legs are more likely to develop insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and an increased risk of heart disease. Leg length is linked to nutritional and environmental factors during childhood, suggesting it as a key indicator for disease risk.
Researchers identified a toxin gene in Chlamydia trachomatis that causes blindness and debilitating genital tract infections. The discovery offers new avenues for treating or preventing these diseases.
Dr. Waddell presents two studies showing viscosupplementation is safe and effective for patients with advanced osteoarthritis, delaying total knee replacements by up to 1 year.
Healthcare experts analyze their responses to the 9/11 attacks, highlighting the importance of public first aid training and critical incident stress debriefing to prevent PTSD. Improved disaster management planning can save lives in future disasters.
A Phase 2 double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that 40 patients with ankylosing spondylitis achieved a significant clinical response when treated with ENBREL (etanercept), with 80% of patients showing improvement in outcome measures. The treatment was generally well-tolerated with no serious adverse events or withdrawals.
Phase 3 results of ENBREL (etanercept) demonstrated significant improvement in signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, with 72% of patients experiencing treatment response after 12 weeks. The study also showed improvements in skin manifestations and psoriasis activity.
A new study found that Actonel 35mg taken once a week was equally effective to 5mg daily in improving bone density in postmenopausal women. The treatment also showed a comparable adverse event profile. This alternative dosing regimen may be beneficial for some patients and physicians.
Individuals with normal low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol may still be at increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), particularly if they carry additional risk factors like central obesity and insulin resistance. Targeting atherogenic dyslipidemia, including abdominal obesity, is recommended to prevent CAD risk.
Researchers at UNC developed a technique to deliver oxygen-carrying fluid to resuscitate the heart after cardiac arrest. The method, selective aortic arch perfusion (SAAP), has shown promising results in animal studies and may help save trauma victims by allowing surgeons to repair damage.
A volunteer's death during a medical research study highlights the need for improved safety measures and enhanced ethical oversight. The Canadian Medical Association Journal article emphasizes the importance of learning from such incidents to prevent future tragedies.
The OPTIMA study shows that low-dose budesonide alone reduces the risk of severe asthma exacerbations and poorly controlled days by half in previously untreated patients. Adding formoterol improves symptom control and reduces exacerbations in both previously untreated and corticosteroid-treated patients.
A study published in Neurology found that cognitive impairment No Dementia (CIND) affects 23.4% of community-dwelling participants aged 65 and older, with rates increasing by 10% for every 10 years after age 65.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute scientists have developed a new biological classification of adenocarcinomas using miniaturized gene chips. The technique groups tumors by their genetic 'signatures', which can capture distinctive patterns of active and inactive genes, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and treatments.
A study found that children from high-risk families have lower levels of enzymes that help dispose of free radicals, making them more susceptible to cellular damage. Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables can help build up these enzymes and prevent free radical damage.
Results from two independent studies show omega interferon's antiviral effect against all HCV genotypes, reducing virus to undetectable levels. The treatment also appeared to be well-tolerated by patients, with progressive anti-hepatitis C effects reported.
In two studies, VEGF gene therapy significantly reduced angina episodes and improved exercise tolerance in patients with end-stage coronary heart disease. The treatment has shown impressive clinical results, with most patients experiencing continued improvement in daily life after treatment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that allopurinol, a medication commonly used to treat gout, can improve heart muscle efficiency and reduce energy consumption in patients with congestive heart failure. The study showed a 20% reduction in energy consumption without affecting contraction strength.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that telling a lie and telling the truth require distinct brain activities. The research used fMRI to track brain activity in volunteers during an interrogation method, revealing increased activity in regions involved in inhibition and control when lying.
A study found that young athletes are more prone to sudden death due to cardiovascular diseases, with a higher risk of 2.5 times compared to non-athletes. Enhanced pre-participation screening methods, including electrocardiograms, are recommended to identify affected athletes.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh identified Langerhans cell precursors that can be targeted to initiate or down-regulate the immune response, potentially leading to novel treatments for asthma and transplant rejection. The discovery could also enhance vaccine development.
A new handheld echocardiography device has been shown to detect heart abnormalities with minimal training, offering a major step forward in heart health screening. The device can reasonably detect left ventricular dysfunction and pericardial effusion, but may require additional training for other conditions.
UB researchers found that Ritalin can cause long-lasting changes in brain cell structure and function, similar to other stimulant drugs. The study suggests that Ritalin's effects may outlast the initial dose, leading to concerns about its long-term impact on the brain.
Researchers analyzed 20 years of US vital statistics data to find racial disparities in heart disease mortality rates. The study confirmed that African Americans experienced a slower decline in CHD death rates, highlighting the need for targeted prevention programs.
Researchers report significant advancements in sutureless vascular graft surgery, reducing operating time by up to 90%. The new techniques enable quicker connections of blood vessels and minimize damage to the heart, paving the way for minimally invasive surgery on the beating heart.
Researchers have successfully converted adult human bone marrow stem cells into functional brain cells in the lab, using a combination of growth factors and nutrients. The breakthrough could potentially lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease.
A Stanford research team aims to understand how C. crescentus's genes communicate with one another, exploring its potential as a bioremediation agent. The goal is to create a comprehensive 'owner's manual' for the bacterium, which can help DOE meet its challenges in toxic waste cleanup and energy production.
A new study found that between 83-89% of federal appellate court decisions in employment-related ADA cases favored the defendants, with plaintiffs winning fewer than 17% of their cases on appeal. Despite this, some factors such as prevailing at trial, alleging discriminatory demotion, and specific types of impairments can improve outco...
UCLA researchers found that anxiety about breast self-examination leads to low compliance among high-risk women. Only 34% of participants performed regular breast self-exams, despite high rates of mammogram and Pap smear adherence.
Researchers identify Mus81, a resolvase enzyme in fission yeast, as a crucial component of genetic recombination. The discovery has potential implications for cancer therapy, as the enzyme plays a role in cell replication and DNA repair.
A Penn State study found that uniform speed limits can lead to different impacts on boats of different sizes. At speeds near 6-8 mph, prop wash can stir up lake sediments, aggravating turbulence problems. The study suggests a computer program to predict water velocity and guide lake managers in setting safe speeds.
Research found that men in higher grade positions with stay-at-home partners have lower rates of depression, attributed to improved quality of life and stress management. Conversely, women in lower employment grades with limited control over their environment are at high risk for depression.
Brain researchers find that glial cells produce surplus cholesterol to support nerve cell growth and synapse formation. The discovery sheds new light on an often-disdained molecule and offers perspectives for neurobiological research and potential strategies to cure brain lesions.
A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that prenatal and postnatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls is associated with lower mental and motor development scores in infants. Conversely, a stimulating home environment can counteract this adverse effect.
A science reviewer strongly criticizes Bjørn Lomborg's book, arguing that it gives little recognition to modern environmental professionals and fails to make the connection between new policies and environmental advances. The reviewer highlights the importance of economic incentives, such as those contained within the Kyoto Protocol, i...
Recent studies on Mars' Elysium and Amazonis Planitia regions reveal regionally extensive lava eruptions from the same vent system as water. The findings suggest that these volcanic and hydrologic events are both young and related in origins, potentially indicating ongoing volcanic activity.
A study found that a new immunization regimen requiring up to four injections at one visit does not decrease vaccination rates despite increasing the risk of adverse reactions. The authors credit parental acceptance and safer vaccine versions for the sustained coverage levels.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified potential metal deposits in Saudi Arabia's western Shield area using GIS software. The analysis of over 2,100 known occurrences of gold, silver, copper, and other metals revealed large quantities of lower-grade metal, ideal for open-pit mining.
Researchers have developed a new liver cancer treatment using electrolysis, which destroys tumors and surrounding tissue with minimal impact on healthy liver cells. The technique has shown promising results in an ongoing trial, with eight out of ten patients showing no evidence of residual tumor.
The researchers are studying the otolith - the ear bone of the bluefin tuna - to see why its numbers have been dwindling for 25 years. By analyzing the layering of the otolith, they can determine the age of the fish and its nursery areas.
The Framingham Heart Study is entering a new phase by recruiting its third generation of participants to explore factors that promote the development of cardiovascular and other diseases. The study aims to identify genes contributing to good health and develop new imaging tests for early-stage coronary atherosclerosis.
Researchers at Jefferson Medical College have demonstrated in the laboratory that prostratin can stimulate two main hiding areas in patients with HIV infection who are taking HAART, leading to death of the virus from anti-viral drugs. The work shows promise for a new second-generation approach to eradicate HIV from the body.
Geologists have found no evidence of impact-induced volcanism on other heavily-impacted planets in our solar system, according to new research by Jay Melosh. The study also provides a theoretical analysis of the conditions created by a large impact on Earth, contradicting a widely-held idea.