Bupropion, counseling may help youth with ADHD stop smoking
A study found that bupropion significantly reduced daily cigarette smoke among adolescents with ADHD, leading to lower carbon monoxide levels. No change was noted in ADHD symptom scores.
Science News Archive May 2004
Page 12 of 13
Stress linked to increased risk of depressive and anxiety disorders
A study found that lifetime exposure to adversity is associated with an increased risk of developing depressive or anxiety disorders in young adults. The researchers analyzed data from 1,803 interviews and found that the level of adversity was a significant predictor of these disorders.
Flagellation in Crohn disease
Researchers have identified a key antigen underlying Crohn disease, bacterial flagellin, which triggers an immune response. Studies found high reactivity against specific flagellins in CD patients, but not in controls or ulcerative colitis patients, providing new leads for causal antigens.
MR spectroscopy aids in distinguishing recurring brain tumors from changes related to treatment
Researchers used MR spectroscopy to analyze 27 patients with previously treated brain tumors and found that Choline, Creatine, and N-acetylaspartate were detectable markers for tumor identification. Early detection can lead to timely treatment and prevent unnecessary therapy.
Painstaking work targeting TRPV1
Scientists successfully deleted primary afferent neurons expressing vanilloid receptor 1, leading to potential breakthroughs in pain management. The study aims to provide new avenues for treating chronic pain by targeting the TRPV1 receptor.
NASA satellites and balloons spot airborne pollution 'train'
Scientists use NASA satellites and balloon-borne sensors to track the movement of a pollution train traveling from the Indian Ocean to the South Atlantic. The study reveals that Asian pollution can flow southward, get caught up in clouds, and reach as far as Brazil.
Wavefront LASIK demonstrated superior to conventional LASIK
Wavefront-guided LASIK yields sharper and higher quality vision, as well as improved night driving abilities compared to conventional LASIK. With wavefront-guided LASIK, patients achieve 97% of 20/20 vision and 85% with 20/16 vision, significantly outperforming conventional LASIK.
Medication for multiple sclerosis may help in treating cocaine addiction
Researchers found that combining counseling with baclofen reduced cocaine use in chronic users, suggesting a potential treatment for cocaine dependence. The medication targets dopamine release in the brain, reducing cravings.
Animal studies show promise treating severe chronic pain
Researchers developed a new technique to selectively delete C-fiber neurons, which transmit chronic pain signals, using the drug resiniferatoxin. In animal studies, this approach reduced pain and improved behavior without side effects.
Chemical brain scans may help reassure brain tumor patients
Researchers have developed a technique called 2D CSI MRS that uses chemical signatures to distinguish between tumor recurrence, normal tissue, and treatment-related changes in the brain. This method has shown significant differences in chemical ratios for recurrent tumors versus treatment-altered tissue.
Caffeine consumption associated with increases in blood pressure in adolescents
A study found that caffeine consumption is associated with increased systolic blood pressure in adolescents, particularly those who consume more than 100mg of caffeine per day. The researchers suggest that high caffeine intakes may be a marker for unhealthy dietary and lifestyle practices that increase the risk of hypertension.
SMASH imaging increases effectiveness of MRI for musculoskeletal imaging
A study found that SMASH imaging decreases examination time by more than eight minutes per knee examination, leading to better patient tolerance and image quality. This technique is expected to impact other areas of musculoskeletal imaging with the right coil.
Elastic nails help children with broken legs recover faster than traction and body casting
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that elastic nails allow children to regain mobility and resume normal daily activities more quickly, reducing treatment time by half. Children treated with elastic nails missed about half the amount of school compared to those in casts.
Pap smears, mammography should be targeted at healthy elders, study says
A recent study by the University of California - San Francisco found that healthy older women are more likely to be screened for cancer, while those in poor health are less likely. The study analyzed data from over 4,700 women aged 70 and above, revealing a significant gap in screening rates among healthy versus unhealthy individuals.
Study finds combination therapy successful for treating depression
A NIH study found that combination therapy of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy improved treatment adherence and reduced depression in injection drug users. The study showed nearly 40% of participants fully adherent to treatment were in remission, compared to 12% without treatment.
Negative side effects downplayed in prostate cancer treatment guides, U-M study finds
A University of Michigan study found that most prostate cancer treatment guides overlook key details and favor active treatment over watchful waiting. The researchers recommend complete information on risks and benefits, clear writing styles, and visual elements to engage readers.
Enzyme prevents lung damage in premature infants
Researchers found that an enzyme called superoxide dismutase helps prevent inflammation and promotes lung development in premature infants. This discovery could lead to improved treatments to alleviate chronic lung disease and preserve lung function.
Attracting an immune response to cancer
Researchers found that NKT cells are attracted to tumors producing the chemokine CCL2, leading to better patient outcomes. Neuroblastomas with abnormally high levels of the cancer-causing gene MYCN contained fewer NKT cells and produced less CCL2.
Co-occurring disorders increase risk of suicide attempt by adolescents
Adolescents with co-occurring substance use and psychiatric disorders are at higher risk of attempting suicide. The study found that males with hallucinogen or sedative-hypnotic use disorders were more likely to attempt suicide, while females with conduct disorders were at higher risk.
Examining motivational interviewing in drug abuse therapy
Research suggests that motivational interviewing may not be effective in reducing drug use behaviors, as individuals often resist weaker language during assessment feedback. Therapists should modify their techniques to avoid undermining existing motivation for behavior change.
Recognition of bacteria in the cytosol by the immune system
Researchers found that bacterial proteins are destroyed by the proteasome within the cytosol during infection, activating the immune system. Bacteria like Listeria avoid recognition by moving within the cytosol, preventing immune activation.
Study finds bupropion may be effective smoking cessation aid for women
A study published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research found that bupropion was an effective treatment for women who smoked lightly. Women receiving bupropion were twice as likely to remain abstinent from smoking if they smoked fewer than 20 cigarettes per day, compared to those receiving behavioral counseling alone.
Study finds HIV protein can drive immune cells away
A study found that HIV's gp120 protein can repel immune cells, dubbed fugetaxis, which could lead to a new therapeutic approach to block this activity. This mechanism may also apply to other viruses, such as pox and papilloma viruses.
MRI superior to ultrasound in predicting cerebral palsy in preterm infants
According to the study, MRI is superior to ultrasound in predicting cerebral palsy in preterm infants. Ultrasound should be used as the first imaging technique due to its availability and lower cost.
New research suggests therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases
A new study found that blocking the protein FcRn reduces autoantibody production and protects against arthritis in mice, offering a potential therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases. The research suggests that FcRn may be responsible for promoting autoimmunity in patients with conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Alternative/supplemental breast imaging methods tested
Researchers at Dartmouth College developed and tested three alternative breast imaging methods to learn about breast tissue structure and behavior. The non-invasive techniques include electrical impedance spectral imaging, microwave imaging spectroscopy, and near infrared spectral imaging.
Unnatural light-dark cycles expose duelling circadian clocks
The study reveals two locomotor activity rhythms originating from separate areas within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), highlighting a network of multiple oscillators. This finding suggests that uncoupling of oscillators within the central pacemaker itself can cause symptoms like jet lag and rotating work schedules.
March of Dimes awards $250,000 prize to pioneering scientist
Dr. Lyon's 1961 discovery of X-chromosome inactivation explained the inheritance pattern of X-linked disorders such as hemophilia and fragile X syndrome. The study of X-inactivation continues to excite researchers today, with a focus on understanding the process.
MRI 'highly useful' in the evaluation of patients with uterine fibroids
A study found MRI to be highly useful in the evaluation of patients with uterine fibroids. The imaging technique offers advantages over sonography, including a larger field of view and better contrast resolution. MRI can help identify subsets of patients who may not benefit from UAE treatment, allowing for more personalized care.
4-MDCT 'excellent technique' for evaluating kidney donors
The study found that 4-MDCT results correlated accurately with surgical findings in 88 of the cases (93%), and specifically with renal vein anatomy in 91 of the 94 cases (96%). This technique offers several advantages over conventional imaging methods, including speed, non-invasiveness, comfort for patients, and greater volume coverage.
DARPA funds joint industrial-academic effort to develop advanced optical packet router technologies
The LASOR team aims to revolutionize optical integration density and develop new technologies to advance optical router capacity beyond 100 Terabits per second. The project will utilize tunable all-optical wavelength converters to direct packets through the router using light itself.
Could vitamins raise levels of bad cholesterol? Animal study suggests they might
A new animal study suggests that antioxidant vitamins may increase the secretion of VLDL in liver cells, leading to higher levels of LDL cholesterol. The study found that vitamins hampered a process in the liver that prevents the production of harmful lipoproteins.
Coronal reformatting of axial images from 16-MDCT helps stage ovarian cancer
A recent study found that coronal reformatted images from 16-MDCT can change overall readings in 83% of cases with ovarian cancer. The study suggests that radiologists should view both axial and coronal images together to accurately stage the disease.
MDCT angiography may help risk-stratify patients in danger of stroke
Researchers found that calcified plaques outside the cranium show symptoms less often and are more stable than noncalcified plaques. This finding can help determine the best treatment approach for patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis.
Transvaginal ultrasound superior to transrectal ultrasound for staging rectal cancer in women
The study found that transvaginal ultrasound provides superior imaging of the rectum and surrounding tissues, resolving rectal wall layers more clearly. Additionally, it is easier to perform with conventional ultrasound probes and causes less patient discomfort.
Child safety restraint use increasing in auto trips
The study found that child safety restraint use rose from 49% in 1999 to 63% among children under 9 by the end of 2002. Optimal child restraint use increased for 3-year-olds, with a significant increase in optimal child restraint use rocketing to 93% in 2002.
Special incubators allow high-quality imaging of critically ill newborns
Researchers found that MR-compatible incubators allow for high-quality imaging of critically ill newborns without radiation exposure. The incubators streamline the examination process and improve image resolution, enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
MDCT angiography is an effective tool for diagnosing blockage of the mesenteric artery
MDCT angiography has been shown to accurately demonstrate filling defects in the superior mesenteric artery and its branches. The study found that MDCT angiography enabled correct diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia in 10 out of 41 patients, providing alternative diagnoses for 19 remaining cases.
Whole-body CT screening for GI disease may not be effective
A recent study examining whole-body CT screenings for gastrointestinal (GI) disease found that only 9% of patients had abnormal findings, with most being benign or non-significant. The study's lead author warns that final results are still pending and more data is needed to confirm the findings.
Eating habits as important as meds for diabetic blood sugar control
Researchers identified 15 common food habits that significantly impact blood sugar control, surpassing the effectiveness of medication. By adopting these 'do's and avoiding specific 'don'ts,' individuals with diabetes can achieve normal blood sugar levels.
JGI decodes wood & toxic waste-degrading fungus genome
The JGI has sequenced the genome of Phanerochaete chrysosporium, a basidiomycete fungus capable of degrading lignin and transforming xenobiotics. The availability of this genome will spur industrial and bioremediative uses for these organisms.
Closing in on the cellular culprits of schizophrenia
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that dysbindin protein expression is reduced in over 80% of patients with schizophrenia, correlating with increased glutamate packets. This discovery provides a critical lead for understanding schizophrenia's cellular mechanisms.
Digital mammography longer to interpret
Interpretation times for digital mammography (SFM) were significantly shorter than those for full-field digital mammography (FFDM), with a 59% difference. Technical problems also occurred more frequently in FFDM cases, impacting accuracy and efficiency.
REI medical/research briefs
Despite a growing need for new antibiotics, only six are being developed out of 506 drugs, with FDA approvals declining by 56% over the past 20 years. Researchers have identified a novel structural signature in antimicrobial peptides that could accelerate development of new treatments.
'Considerable reductions' in radiation exposure possible with 16-MDCT scanner on body applications
A new study suggests that using 16-MDCT scanners can reduce radiation exposure in body CT scans by 20-30%, while also improving image quality. The technology offers a more dose-efficient option for hospitals with both 4-MDCT and 16-MDCT scanners, allowing them to scan high-risk patient groups with lower radiation doses.
UC Riverside researchers develop low-carb corn with enhanced protein and oil
Researchers at UC Riverside have successfully developed a low-carb corn variety with increased protein and oil content, thanks to the introduction of a cytokinin gene that promotes plant growth. This breakthrough could help address global food security challenges by improving the nutritional value of cereal grains.
Acute diverticulitis occurring more frequently in younger patients in urban U.S. populations
A recent study found that acute diverticulitis occurs as often in younger age groups as older adults, with frequent severity in both. The disease may become a greater health problem if it starts developing at an earlier age, leading to more recurrent attacks and surgical resection.
Chromatin remodeling may open up DNA to RNA-mediated silencing
Researchers discovered a chromatin remodeling protein called DRD1 that enables RNA-directed DNA methylation in plants. This finding highlights the importance of chromatin remodeling in rendering nucleosomal DNA accessible to RNA signals and/or DNA methyltransferases.
Substance use, social stress compromise pregnant women's immune system
Research suggests that elevated cytokine levels in pregnant women can predict premature birth, brain injuries, and respiratory disorders in infants. Social stress factors such as substance abuse, family violence, and poverty also increase the risk of poor outcomes.
Health care providers should be prepared for high prevalence of co-occurring disorders
A study published in American Journal of Psychiatry found that healthcare providers should be aware of the associative nature of drug abuse and mental illness. The research compared patients with co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse disorders, finding no significant diagnostic differences between groups.
Laser technique used to build micro-polymeric structure on a human hair, without harming it
Researchers successfully fabricate intricate, three-dimensional patterns on human hair using a multiphoton-absorption photopolymerization (MAP) technique. This breakthrough opens doors to potential applications in medical research, drug delivery, and miniature biodevices.
Link between caffeine consumption, high blood pressure found in adolescents
A new study has found a significant link between caffeine consumption and increased blood pressure in black adolescents. Adolescents who drank the most caffeinated beverages had higher systolic pressures, with black adolescents showing a greater impact. The researchers suggest that further research is needed to explore this relationship.
For foster children, unstable placements have higher healthcare costs
Researchers found that unstable placements and episodic foster care increase mental health service use, with older children and those with high physical health care costs at greatest risk. The top 10% of mental health users account for 83% of $2.4 million in mental health costs.
Study detects protein in human milk linked to reduced risk of obesity
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have detected high levels of adiponectin in human milk, a protein that may help regulate body fat and reduce the risk of obesity. The study suggests that early exposure to this protein through breast milk could influence metabolic health later in life.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's link a strain of E. coli to diarrhea in children
A new study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center has identified a strain of E. coli as the cause of diarrhea in young children. The research, which used genetic technology, found that nearly 10% of children treated for gastroenteritis tested positive for enteroaggregative E. coli.
Breastfeeding decreases infant mortality
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that breastfeeding for at least 28 days is associated with a 20% lower risk of dying between 28 days and one year of age. Longer breastfeeding duration also showed a similar benefit, indicating that even moderate breastfeeding can have a positive impact on infant mortality rates.
Even drug-resistant HIV infection responds to right treatment
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center report successful treatment of six HIV-positive children using customized medication regimens created through genotype analysis and a web-based algorithm tool. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of a salvage therapy approach in managing drug-resistant HIV infection.
Sleep apnea treatment could save lives & money by reducing auto accidents, according to researchers
A recent study found that obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of auto collisions by 28%. Treating the condition with CPAP could prevent 980 fatalities each year, saving $11.1 billion in collision costs.
When plants need ants' help, bigger is better
Research shows that larger ants are better at carrying seeds far from their mother plants, but invasive species like Argentine and fire ants pose a threat to native plant populations. The study found that smaller ants cannot disperse seeds as efficiently, leading to reduced seedling survival.
Hidden cost of depression in seniors: $9 billion in care from spouses, children
A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that moderately depressed seniors require significantly more hours of care than those without symptoms. If caregivers were paid for their work, the annual cost would be approximately $9 billion, highlighting the impact of depression on seniors and their loved ones.