A new study by De Montfort University reveals worrying inconsistencies in how NHS hospital trusts in England define and report surgical site infections. The findings suggest that published rates do not accurately reflect the true scale of surgical infections, highlighting the need for improved data collection and reporting systems.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry suggests that reductions in ECT treatment have an economic basis, with a 43% drop in psychiatric inpatients receiving the procedure. ECT is being discontinued by US general hospitals, primarily due to cost and regulatory issues.
The latest issue of Reproductive Health Matters exposes the significant impact of neglected sexual and reproductive morbidities on women, men, and families globally. It addresses various health issues, including fistula complications, maternal health, and cervical cancer, while also highlighting prevailing myths and misconceptions.
Elsevier has launched a new open-access journal, Journal of Pediatric Surgery Case Reports, which will publish original, peer-reviewed case reports on unusual presentations and novel diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in pediatric surgery. The journal aims to provide high clinical interest and educational value.
Elsevier has acquired the Journal of Choice Modelling, a leading publication in choice modelling, which covers topics such as transport and marketing. The journal will continue to publish four issues in 2013 and maintain access for a wide range of readers through ScienceDirect.
Elsevier will publish the International Review of Economics Education (IREE) journal starting in January 2013, with an increased frequency from two to three issues per calendar year. The journal aims to enhance learning and teaching in economics education, promoting critical dialogue on educational theory and practice.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that food insecurity is strongly associated with adolescent mental disorders. The study examined 6,483 adolescents aged 13-17 years and found that a one standard deviation increase in food insecurity was linked to a 14% increased odds ...
The International Society for the Social Studies has selected Elsevier as publisher for its journal The Journal of Social Studies Research, beginning in January 2013. The peer-reviewed journal will foster research dissemination and ideas related to social studies education.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that oxytocin administration to fathers increased their parental engagement, with parallel effects observed in their infants. Oxytocin levels were also found to increase in both parents and children, leading to improved social behavior and bonding.
A new study has identified a potential therapeutic mechanism for Fragile X syndrome, which is the most common heritable form of autism and intellectual disability. Researchers have found that blocking the serotonin 7 receptor may reverse synaptic plasticity in mice with FXS, suggesting a new approach to treatment.
A new study explores the impact of the interleukin-1β gene on brain function alterations associated with schizophrenia. The research found that patients with schizophrenia who were homozygous for the C allele showed reduced prefrontal cortex activation, while healthy volunteers did not differ by genotype.
A review by Northeastern University physicist Meni Wanunu questions the feasibility of nanopore technology for fast and affordable genome sequencing. The main technical hurdles include slow process rates, protein pore limitations, spectroscopic information gaps, and clogging issues.
A large genetic replication study found compelling evidence that the chromosome 3p21.1 locus contains a common genetic risk for bipolar disorder, specifically the PBRM1 gene. This replication distinguishes the heritable risk for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, contrasting with previous studies.
A new study has identified variants of genes influencing immune function that may contribute to the heritable risk for schizophrenia. The research, published in Biological Psychiatry, highlights an important gap in understanding how immune alterations are involved in the disorder.
A recent study published in Vaccine found that HPV vaccination has no influence on sexual behavior among adolescent girls. The research, conducted in the UK, showed no difference in sexual activity between girls who received the vaccine and those who did not.
Researchers discovered FNDC5/irisin hormone is secreted by muscle cells and reflects muscle mass. Irisin levels increase after acute exercise and are associated with growth factors that promote muscle growth.
Researchers reviewing Cogmed's claims found limited evidence supporting improved working memory and addressing underachievement. The debate raises concerns about the program's efficacy, sparking a nuanced discussion among experts.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) has released a new Practice Parameter addressing the unique challenges faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, and gender variant youth. The parameter provides best clinical practices to combat stigma, bullying, and discrimination, as well as promote cultural competence and resea...
The European Menopause and Andropause Society published a clinical guide on low-dose vaginal estrogens for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy, finding them effective in managing symptoms. The guide recommends annual review due to the chronic nature of vaginal atrophy.
Two groundbreaking papers from the CMS and ATLAS experiments announce the discovery of the elusive Higgs boson, marking a major milestone in particle physics. The observation confirms the Standard Model of particle physics and validates theories explaining how elementary particles can have mass.
A recent study published in Icarus proposes a new perspective on the Moon's formation, suggesting a 'hit-and-run' Giant Impact scenario that resolves the Lunar Paradox. The research explores alternative collision geometries and impact velocities, which could provide a solution to the paradox and shed light on the Moon's origins.
A new study by Dr. Inti Pedroso and colleagues has identified key genes and neural signaling pathways involved in the development of bipolar disorder. The findings, published in Biological Psychiatry, provide insight into the complex biology of the disorder and highlight potential new avenues for treatment.
Researchers discovered that fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) can increase the number of glial cells, supporting neurons and promoting proper neuronal function. This study presents a fundamental new mechanism for treating depression by targeting glial cell growth.
A study found that 43.5% of websites provided accurate information on infant sleep safety, while 28.4% offered irrelevant information. Healthcare providers are recommended to use trusted websites like HealthFinder and Medline Plus for reliable information.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that children with ADHD have delayed brain development, particularly in frontal regions. This suggests a global delay in brain structure important for controlling action and attention.
A collaborative research project analyzed raw sewage samples from 19 European cities, providing unique insights into illicit drug use patterns. The study found distinct temporal and spatial patterns in drug use across Europe, with cocaine use higher in Western and Central Europe and ecstasy loads highest in Dutch cities.
A neuroeconomic review investigates how anxiety disorders impact everyday decision-making processes. The study highlights the overlap between neural systems underlying anxiety and decision-making, suggesting that fear and anxiety can alter choice patterns. Anxious individuals exhibit specific biases in decision making, which may be med...
A new protocol has excellent results and should become the standard of care for treating severe heart attacks. Paramedics trained to read ECGs expedite treatment by evaluating patients with chest pain and restoring blood flow to the heart within 30 minutes.
Researchers found that childhood adversity increases the risk of depression and chronic inflammation, which can persist even after depression resolves. Individuals who experienced early childhood trauma have a higher risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
A new study found that childhood maltreatment is associated with altered epigenetic regulation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene, which can increase the risk for suicide. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, suggests that early life adversity can lead to long-lasting changes in brain stress response systems.
A study of 1117 children aged 12-36 months found that many were investigated for maltreatment and had mental health problems, but only a small percentage received treatment. The findings highlight the need for early intervention and services for young children in child welfare.
New studies find insufficient data to draw conclusions on whether same-sex parenting disadvantages children. A review and new study reveal differences in social and emotional well-being between young adults raised by women with same-sex relationships and those in nuclear families.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry found that D-cycloserine augmentation enhances exposure therapy for PTSD, particularly in patients with severe symptoms. This approach may improve treatment outcomes by promoting neuroplasticity and reducing deficits in brain regions involved in emotion and memory.
The May issue of Reproductive Health Matters explores the causes and impact of the gap between policy and practice in maternal health and maternal mortality in India and other countries. It highlights both the good and bad news characterizing this gap, including hopeful signs of progress.
Researchers found that N-acetylcysteine significantly decreased irritability in children with autism, while being well-tolerated and causing minimal side effects. A large randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm the findings and explore potential treatment benefits for other symptoms.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry confirms ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects in patients with bipolar disorder. Ketamine was found to significantly reduce depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts within hours of administration.
A study published in Public Health found that Scotland's higher mortality rates may be linked to the political direction of past decades, rather than single factors like smoking or poor diet. The researchers identified a range of potential explanations, including climate change and economic inequality.
Scientists have developed a new technology to mass-produce high-precision molds for making tiny plastic components using bulk metallic glasses. The components can be used in computer memory devices, microscale testing kits, and chemical reactors with microscopic surface patterns.
The special issue on 3D Object Retrieval will incorporate the Collage Authoring Environment, allowing authors to embed executable code and data into their papers. This enables verified results and improves peer-review, leading to faster knowledge dissemination in fast-moving fields like Computer Graphics.
Researchers identified rare mutations in MAGI1 and MAGI2 genes associated with psychiatric disorders. The study suggests that these genes may play a role in brain connections and synaptic development, providing new insights into the causes of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Studies suggest that careful analysis of electrical signals from brain activity may reveal important harmonic relationships in brain circuits. Abnormalities in structure and function are reflected in disrupted musical combinations, such as cacophonous music.
Individuals with epilepsy have a higher risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as an increased likelihood of developing psychosis. A Finnish study found that families with a history of epilepsy were more likely to experience both conditions.
Depressed individuals with rumination tendencies show altered brain network activation compared to healthy individuals. The study found a dissociation pattern between anterior and posterior medial cortex regions, positively associating rumination with increased connectivity.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry has discovered that testosterone's antidepressant properties are mediated by a specific pathway in the hippocampus. Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to effectively improve mood, particularly in men with hypogonadism.
The Canadian Journal of Cardiology has published new guidelines for atrial fibrillation, which provide updated guidance on stroke prevention and heart rhythm control. The guidelines are based on recent changes in drugs available to treat the condition and will have a significant impact on how doctors worldwide treat atrial fibrillation.
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that patients with lower socioeconomic status were 16% more likely to die from a heart attack. Despite equal access to advanced healthcare, socioeconomic factors still had a negative impact on health outcomes.
Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation to measure brain activity in individuals with ASD and healthy controls, finding a blunted response to motor cortex stimulation. This suggests that deficits in the mirror neuron system contribute to social deficits in autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers at Stanford University highlight potential treatments for cognitive dysfunction in Down syndrome, which shares similarities with Alzheimer's disease. The review focuses on insights from animal models and structural abnormalities in the DS brain.
A recent study published in Epilepsy & Behavior found that 41% of seizure-related tweets were derogatory, perpetuating negative attitudes towards epilepsy. The study highlights the need for improved epilepsy education to combat these stereotypes and promote positive change.
The clinical guide highlights the benefits of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) in reducing fracture risk for postmenopausal women. SERMs, such as bazedoxifene and lasofoxifene, offer a new therapeutic option with potential anti-fracture effects.