Researchers have found that people with depression have a persistent biological abnormality in their serotonin systems, even when not depressed. The study, published in Neuropsychopharmacology, suggests depression reflects a genetic trait and may require longer medication use.
A new study by Columbia University Irving Medical Center reveals significant differences in PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and PSAD (Prostate-Specific Antigen Density) test measurements between Caucasian and Hispanic men. The study found that while PSAD can accurately predict cancer risk in Caucasians, it is less effective in Hispanic...
A 12-month study of 430 overweight men and women showed a significant weight loss of 11.6 kg with Xenical, with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and waist circumference. The results demonstrate the efficacy of Xenical in a real-life clinical practice setting.
Researchers found that a weevil released to control Canada thistle in the US instead harms a native thistle species, Tracy's thistle. The weevil reduced seed production by two-thirds in infested stands, with no impact on non-native thistles.
A CWRU study of 1,000 retirees aged 75+ found that regular exercise and not smoking significantly correlated with increased lifespan. Exercise was also shown to improve physical function and mental health, such as reduced depression and increased exuberance for life.
Combination therapy of finasteride and doxazosin significantly reduces BPH progression, urinary retention, and invasive treatments. Finasteride reduces prostate size, providing long-lasting symptom relief.
A new prediction index uses satellite-based data to identify signs of El Niño development in the winter, providing a 6-9 month lead-time. The study found high values that preceded five strongest El Niños, and predicts the next event to begin between July and October 2002.
A new study by UB researchers provides the first scientific proof that handwriting is unique to each individual, setting a significant standard for handwriting analysis in forensic applications. The team's software system can distinguish with 96% confidence whether two documents were written by the same person or different people.
A new implantable device has been designed to deliver anti-psychotic medication for up to a year, potentially relieving patients of psychosis and social instability. The device, made of biodegradable polymers, is surgically implanted under the skin and releases medication into the bloodstream at a specific rate.
Wild meat harvesting is a major threat to threatened species, with big mammals and conspicuous birds being most at risk. Conservation biologists and organizations must work together to address poverty and unmanaged wildlife use to mitigate overhunting.
Experts will address common misconceptions about radiation and provide guidance on planning and preparation for terrorist acts involving radioactive materials. The seminar aims to educate nuclear medicine professionals and alleviate fears among non-nuclear medical staff.
Researchers found less gray matter in select brain regions of chronic cocaine users compared to controls. This decrease may contribute to behaviors such as impulsive decision-making and risk-taking. Understanding these effects can help develop strategies to reverse and restore normal brain function.
Research finds significant cognitive impairments in crack-dependent and crack-and-alcohol-dependent individuals after 6 weeks and 6 months of abstinence. The largest effects were found in executive function and spatial processing assessments.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Investigator Awards program funds research initiatives addressing cultural influences on pain management, the right to healthcare, and the impact of regulation on human subjects. The newly funded projects will provide fresh insights to inform health policy.
Researchers used PET scans to measure changes in dopamine during food and neutral stimulation. Food stimulation increased dopamine in the dorsal striatum but not in the ventral striatum, suggesting a role in food motivation beyond reward effects.
Researchers at the University of Rhode Island have developed a novel treatment using thiourea and thyroxine to synchronize the settlement and growth of summer flounder. This method reduces cannibalism and increases the profitability of flounder aquaculture, saving culturists time and effort in fish grouping.
A genetic model found that hatchery salmon can develop 'captive traits' and introduce them to wild populations, decreasing their survival rate. Conservation efforts, such as conserving or restoring habitats, may be effective in preventing this shift.
Research found that a warm polar winter made it easier for ozone to accumulate in the Arctic stratosphere, as warmer air prevented the formation of polar stratospheric clouds. This prevented the breakdown of ozone molecules, leading to higher levels of ozone in the lower stratosphere.
Chemical engineers have developed a novel process to grow crops of nanowires, which could lead to improved design of advanced military and space gear, fuel cells, sensors and solar devices. The process uses pools or thin films of low-melting metals like gallium to create the nanowires.
Researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder have found that ozone-gobbling chlorine free radicals produced by CFC breakdown are more concentrated at high latitudes than previously believed. This discovery has significant implications for understanding ozone trends and their connection to climate change.
Researchers found that naltrexone increased the antiviral activity of AZT and indinavir when added to cell cultures containing these drugs. Naltrexone targets infected cells rather than the virus itself, a novel approach to HIV treatment.
Researchers aim to better understand West Africa's climate trends and model potential impacts on the region's water resources, agriculture, and energy sector. The study's findings could help inform regional plans for adapting to climate change and ensure the long-term sustainability of hydroelectric power.
The FLAMBE project utilizes geostationary satellites to detect and monitor forest fires every half-hour, providing early warnings of haze events. The system also estimates burned areas, smoke fluxes, and radiative impacts, complementing NASA's Terra satellite products for improved global climate understanding.
Following the 9/11 attacks, a study found that nearly one-third of respondents increased their use of alcohol, marijuana, or cigarettes, with the largest increase in alcohol consumption. The study also found that people experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression were more likely to engage in substance abuse.
A study by Kevin Lafferty and Leah Gerber found that non-otter diseases, such as parasitic worms and toxoplasmosis, are contributing to the decline of California sea otter populations. Improving waste disposal and reducing human exposure to these diseases may help protect the otters.