A randomized controlled trial found that combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with medication significantly improved treatment outcomes for patients with panic disorder. Patients receiving CBT and medication had higher remission rates and greater improvements in mental health functioning compared to those receiving usual care.
A study led by Dr. Wei Jiang found that even mildly depressed heart failure patients are at higher risk of death, with a 44% greater risk when BDI scores exceed 10. The researchers believe this highlights the importance of monitoring patients' psycho-social status in their care.
Researchers found that beta-blockers significantly reduced risk of death for patients with chronic severe mitral regurgitation and normal ejection fraction. The study also showed improved survival in patients with diastolic heart failure, a condition affecting nearly 50% of all CHF patients.
A study by neuroscientists suggests that faces and words are recognized differently, with faces identified by wholes and words by parts. In experiments, observers were asked to focus on a black dot accompanied by a letter or face, finding it easier to recognize the individual elements when they were isolated from context.
Orqis Medical's Cancion CRS therapy has shown promising results in improving cardiac index and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure in patients with severe heart failure. The therapy provides continuous aortic flow augmentation, enabling progressive hemodynamic improvement without taking over the heart's function.
Insulin production in the brain contributes to Alzheimer's progression, with growth factors playing a key role. Researchers found reduced insulin levels in affected areas, opening door for targeted brain treatment.
UCSD researchers discovered that titanium particles weaken artificial joints by affecting bone-building and -destroying cells. The study's findings suggest improved implant material with enhanced wear resistance and fatigue properties to reduce particle generation.
Researchers discovered a symbiotic relationship between a wasp species and a new bacterial species that protects against pathogenic fungi. The European beewolf's larvae benefit from the antibiotics produced by the Streptomyces bacteria, leading to increased survival rates.
A recent study by Vanderbilt University researchers has found that selenoprotein P (SEPP1) is essential for normal sperm development and male fertility. The study used genetically altered mice to demonstrate the critical role of SEPP1 in delivering selenium to the testes, where it plays a key role in maintaining sperm health.
A new study using CRT-D devices found a strong correlation between changes in heart rate variability and mortality one year later. Patients with limited heart rate variability are at higher risk of suffering a heart attack, making the device's data an important tool for identifying high-risk patients.
In a groundbreaking study, rhesus monkeys demonstrated the ability to assess visual perspectives of others during competitive interactions for food. By considering whether a competitor could or couldn't see them, monkeys made strategic decisions to maximize their chances of acquiring food.
A study of 180 Catholic nuns and priests found that nearly half with mild cognitive impairment met pathologic criteria for Alzheimer's disease. Meanwhile, about a quarter had cerebral infarcts, indicating a possible 'reserve' capacity in the brain that prevents cognitive decline despite pathology.
A study found that laughter increased beneficial blood vessel relaxation by 22%, while mental stress caused a 35% decrease. Laughter offsets the negative impact of mental stress on the endothelium, which regulates blood flow and cardiovascular health.
Research reveals that two brain systems, amygdala and right prefrontal cortex, play a crucial role in determining an individual's behavior and emotional expression when seeking help. The study found that animals with more secure relationships had increased activity in the right prefrontal cortex and decreased amygdala activity, while t...
Researchers found that Hispanic youth who speak English are at higher risk of having sex earlier than those who speak Spanish. Acculturation into US culture significantly affects their sexual behavior, with highly acculturated teens more likely to engage in early sex.
A comprehensive treatment approach for all schizophrenia symptoms is possible, enabling patients to recover and lead fuller lives. Atypical antipsychotics have shown promise in improving cognition and addressing depressive symptoms, but individual side effects and preferences must be considered.
A study found that US college students have a similar risk of alcohol-related problems as their non-college attending peers, despite higher rates of heavy drinking. The research used data from the 2001 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse and compared the drinking habits of young adults in college to those not in college.
Phage nucleic acid transport poses a fascinating biophysical problem. Researchers used fluorescently labeled phage DNA to investigate the dynamics of DNA ejection from single phages, demonstrating that release is not an all-or-none process but rather a complex and stepwise process.
eDocAmerica has launched a Spanish version of its website to cater to the growing needs of its Hispanic clients. The new platform provides secure access to board-certified physicians and a range of online health information tools.
COACh founder and chair Geri Richmond will use $10,000 grant to expand mentorship programs to Latin America, aiming to improve hiring and promotion of women in academic chemistry departments. Richmond's organization has seen success with its workshops and leadership forums, increasing women's participation and reducing workplace stress.
A small study found that St. John's wort amplifies the effect of blood thinner Plavix, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding among those who take both. The researchers plan to conduct further studies to confirm the finding and explore its implications for new drug development.
A UW-Madison study found that autistic children's amygdalas light up during non-threatening face gazing, stunting brain activity in the fusiform region. This challenges existing notions of facial processing in autism, suggesting a more complex relationship between social interaction and brain function.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with low socioeconomic status are at a higher risk of developing mental illness. The study suggests that economic stress, unemployment, and housing insecurity contribute to this increased risk.
Research reveals genetic connections between nicotine tolerance, aggression, and neurotransmitter systems. Gene polymorphisms influence animal behavior, potentially explaining why humans develop addiction.
The study reveals that VIP peptide is essential for synchronizing the brain's biological clock, which regulates daily rhythms in behavior and physiology. Mice lacking VIP suffered from internal desynchrony, while adding VIP restored synchronicity.
In a randomized clinical trial, researchers found that combining three anti-platelet drugs did not increase the risk of bleeding, and treatment adherence was high. The combination of cilostazol, clopidogrel, and aspirin was tested in patients who had undergone successful angioplasty and stent implantation.
Researchers found a significant association between depression and ventricular tachycardia, a precursor to sudden cardiac death, in hospitalized heart attack patients. The risk of ventricular tachycardia increased with increased levels of depression.
Scientists isolated immune cells from HIV-infected persons and cultured them with chemical compounds, producing the same changes as gene therapy. The findings offer a new approach to strengthen the immune system's capacity to stave off HIV.
Researchers have found that a combination of surgery and intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy (IPHC) improves overall survival and quality of life in patients with tumors of the appendix, small bowel, ovarian cancer, colon, rectum, stomach, and mesothelioma. The treatment has been shown to be effective for high-grade and low-grade...
Researchers are studying entomopathogenic nematodes, tiny worms that kill insects by releasing bacteria inside their hosts. The goal is to develop non-chemical and non-toxic pest control programs using these natural agents.
Researchers are using two giant detectors in Minnesota and Illinois to explore the properties of neutrinos, particularly their ability to change flavors. The goal is to understand how particles acquire mass and its role in the formation of the universe and dark matter.
University of Florida researchers have developed a patent-pending method to improve antibiotic development, combining testing of various drug concentrations at the site of infection with laboratory analyses and mathematical models. This approach aims to reduce the lengthy and expensive trial-and-error process that can take years.
The study developed mice with a mutant form of ELOVL4, which causes significant lipofuscin accumulation and photoreceptor death, closely resembling human AMD and STGD. This model now permits testing of potential therapies for the dry version of age-related AMD and STGD.
A study found that Seroquel significantly reduced symptoms of agitation in elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease, improving their quality of life. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no decline in cognitive function observed.
The SMA Foundation's donation will support the discovery and advancement of novel products to treat SMA, a genetic condition affecting 55,000 people worldwide. Key researchers at Columbia University are working on developing treatments using innovative approaches such as drug discovery and clinical trials.
African-American study participants with a genetic variant for the mood-elevating hormone norepinephrine are at higher risk of depression, anxiety, and hypertension. Elevated norepinephrine levels, heart rate, and blood pressure were observed in those with the genetic variant.
The PEM unit detects breast cancer by pinpointing tumors with increased glucose metabolism, outperforming mammography in dense breast tissue. The device uses fluorodeoxyglucose to identify cancerous lesions, with 18 of 20 detected abnormalities proven to be cancerous.
Researchers found unique organisms thriving in highly alkaline fluids rich in methane and hydrogen, differing from black-smoker vent ecosystems. The discovery may provide insights into the origins of life on Earth and potential signs of life elsewhere.
An international team of astronomers has measured the motion of an entire galaxy in the sky using radio telescopes. The measurements show that the galaxy moves at a speed of 190 km/s relative to our Milky Way towards the Andromeda galaxy, and provide insights into the history and future evolution of the Milky Way.
Researchers have crystallized polynucleotide kinase (PNK), a key enzyme involved in DNA repair, opening up possibilities for developing drugs that inhibit cancer's ability to repair itself. The discovery builds on existing work and provides new targets for improving treatment effectiveness and preventing cancer growth.
A gene called KIAA0319 has been identified as a major contributor to susceptibility to dyslexia. The discovery offers hope for the development of treatments to help children with the disorder.
Scientists have long puzzled over the origin of chondrules, glassy particles found in meteorites that formed in the solar nebula. New calculations suggest that spiral arms in the disk surrounding Jupiter may have generated shock waves that melted dust clumps to form these particles.
A study found that complete ACL tears play a major role in the development of debilitating knee OA, even among patients with no recall of significant knee injury. Patients with ACL tears tend to have more severe disease, but not increased pain.
A new study published in Clinical Biomechanics reveals that orthodontists are at risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged sitting and repetitive tasks, with males bearing heavier loads than females. The research highlights the need for better work layout and equipment design to mitigate this risk.
Rheumatoid arthritis patients with swelling in large joints, vasculitis, lung disease, or high ESR levels have a significantly increased risk of dying from heart conditions. The study suggests that systemic inflammation promotes this risk and hypothesizes that closely monitoring and controlling inflammation may decrease the risk.
A study found that Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) systems can effectively detect small and subtle breast cancers, with a sensitivity of up to 92% for lesions of 5 mm or less. CAD also helps reduce missed cancers and positively impacts breast cancer prognosis without increasing patient recall rates.
Three academic centers win $225,000 IADR/GSK Oral Care Awards for innovative oral health projects. The awards aim to improve the public's oral health and quality-of-life issues associated with oral diseases.
A study by American College of Radiology found MRI to be useful in assessing suspected breast cancer patients, detecting additional cancers not visible on mammography or sonography. The use of computer-assisted diagnosis improved accuracy and led to recommended mastectomies for some patients.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have identified a specific genetic variation associated with a 10-fold increased risk of a ruptured brain aneurysm. This discovery could lead to the development of a fast and inexpensive blood test to predict stroke risk, saving thousands of lives annually.
Research reveals that IL-6 activates a pathway in liver cells that triggers protection against hepatitis and immune-mediated liver damage. Two proteins, KC and SAA2, play a crucial role in this protective effect.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered TRPV3, a protein that detects warm temperatures through skin cells, not sensory neurons. The receptor is activated by both thermal heat and the compound camphor, leading to new insights into pain sensation and potential drug targets.
A long-term study of 835 participants found moderate acetabular dysplasia to be a strong independent risk factor for hip OA. Women with acetabular dysplasia had a higher incidence and severity of hip OA, especially those with high-stress workloads and low BMI.
Scientists discover unique organisms living in alkaline fluids with high levels of methane and hydrogen, unlike those found in black-smoker vents. The Lost City vent field may provide insights into the origins of life on Earth and the possibility of life on other planets.
A study found that medical technologies in Brazil, such as increased antenatal visits and ultrasound scans, did not improve neonatal mortality rates, but rather led to an increase in pre-term births and low birthweight babies. This suggests that medical interventions may be offsetting the gains from improved maternal health.
A study found that preterm babies who received sunflower seed oil had a significantly lower risk of infection compared to those who did not receive the treatment. The effect was most pronounced when treatment was started within 24 hours of birth, with a 56% reduction in bloodstream infections.
Researchers have identified abnormal brain tissue associated with cognitive impairments in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The study found structural abnormalities in the posterior parietal lobe, a critical area for visual-spatial and numerical processing.
A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that existing school-based smoking prevention programs have little impact on long-term smoking prevalence among youth. Only one program, Life Skills Program, showed a reduction in smokers at long-term follow-up.
A new study found that cholesterol plays a crucial role in regulating cell signals by interacting with the oxysterol binding protein (OSBP), which controls the deactivation of ERK. This mechanism helps maintain proper levels of active ERK, preventing cancer growth.
The UK NHS telemedicine initiative has failed to deliver promised benefits, with integration issues and inadequate patient consultation hindering its success. New portable telecare systems for monitoring chronic illnesses are being developed but face similar challenges.
A daily micronutrient supplement increased birthweight by an average of 77g, reducing the prevalence of low birthweight by 25% among 1200 Nepalese mothers. The supplement showed a more marked effect on female infants and those with higher body mass index.