Researchers identified six courses of mental health, with poorer outcomes associated with smaller birth weight and delayed developmental milestones. The study suggests a 'fetal programming' model for depression and anxiety, where prenatal stress may result in permanent maladaptive changes to the developing fetal brain.
Researchers found a significant decline in commercial cigarette purchases among adolescents, while social sources increased. This decrease was linked to reduced smoking rates, suggesting that limiting access to cigarettes may be an effective strategy for curbing youth smoking.
A study found that antidepressant non-responders with depression show a significantly better response to lithium augmentation if they carry at least one C-allele, suggesting a potential genetic predictor for treatment response. The GSK3B gene variation may be a key molecular switch related to the clinical effectiveness of lithium.
A new study shows transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to be an effective, non-drug treatment for major depression, with response and remission rates approximately twice those of sham TMS. The treatment was well-tolerated by patients with mild side effects.
The November issue of Reproductive Health Matters reports a decline in global maternal mortality rates, with significant reductions in North Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Oceania. However, sub-Saharan Africa's maternal death rate has increased despite declining access to quality healthcare.
A panel of experts proposes a definition of recovery as a voluntarily maintained lifestyle characterized by sobriety, personal health, and citizenship. The proposed definition includes classification of duration of sobriety and recognition of the importance of personal health and citizenship in achieving true recovery.
Elsevier has partnered with IRTCES and WASER to enhance the International Journal of Sediment Research's global presence through ScienceDirect, providing a platform for sedimentation engineering and water management research. The journal will offer certification and wider dissemination to a global audience.
Researchers found that darkness amplifies the impact of social stress on anxiety levels, with a startle response boosted in healthy volunteers. The study suggests that stress can alter nervous system function and contribute to anxiety disorders.
Leading experts in organic solar cells have expressed concern over the field's reputation being damaged by reports of unrealistic results. The experts call for independent verification and accurate reporting to ensure the success of OSCs.
A study has identified genetic variants associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Women with specific variants in the estrogen receptor alpha gene were more likely to experience PMDD, suggesting hormonal factors play a key role in its development.
Researchers found that patients with large polyps or adenomas may need more frequent follow-up, while those with only a few small polyps can be screened less often. Relatives of patients with large polyps should also be targeted for screening.
Researchers have found promising results with three new non-invasive imaging tests that can diagnose fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver without a biopsy. Ultrasound-based transient elastography was accurate in identifying patients with cirrhosis, while MR elastography showed nearly 100% accuracy in detecting any degree of liver fibrosis.
A large study found that healthy individuals with schizophrenia risk alleles had minute decrements in cognitive ability and altered schizotypal beliefs, highlighting the genetic liability to psychosis expressed at the population level.
Researchers found that administering a drug to stimulate another type of glutamate receptor can normalize abnormal brain function associated with schizophrenia. This finding provides promising therapeutic potential for improving treatments available to patients struggling with the disorder.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that pedophilia patients exhibit reduced activation of the hypothalamus and frontal cortex when viewing sexually arousing pictures, indicating altered sexual interest. This deficit may predispose individuals vulnerable to pedophilia to seek alternative stimulation.
A study found that individuals with a specific genetic variant (CYP2B6*6 allele) benefit from bupropion treatment and maintain abstinence longer than those without the variant. The study provides insight into personalized medicine for smoking cessation.
A new study found that individuals with a family history of alcoholism are more likely to reduce their drinking when prescribed naltrexone. However, those without a family history of alcoholism may experience increased drinking with higher doses of naltrexone.
A new study found that irregular Pap smears and false negative tests were not the primary reasons for cervical cancer development. Instead, socio-economic disparities in screening access may be a major obstacle to eradicating the disease.
A new study finds that maternal depression and controlling behavior are linked to increased stress responses in infants, as measured by cortisol levels. Infants of depressed mothers had lower pre-stress cortisol levels and a correlation between mother and infant cortisol levels.
A study found that women experienced worsening mood and increased caution when serotonin levels were reduced, while men became more impulsive. The researchers discovered a genetic link influencing the response in women, highlighting sex differences in serotonin utilization.
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has chosen Elsevier as its publishing partner, starting in January 2008. The partnership will enable early publication of articles in press and improve accessibility for authors, editors, and the academic community.
The new journal Stem Cell Research will cover all aspects of stem cell research, including embryonic stem cells, cancer stem cells, and developmental studies. It aims to disseminate the results of ongoing research in this rapidly expanding field, with a focus on high-quality peer-reviewed studies.
The partnership aims to widen the journal's audience, reducing reviewing time and increasing access to online features, including a comprehensive search engine and e-mail alerts. The Tissue Viability Society will continue to receive print copies as a benefit of membership.
A new study found that high stress levels contribute to memory loss among individuals at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. Those with the APOE-å4 gene variant and high cortisol levels showed significant memory impairment, suggesting a link between chronic stress and cognitive decline.
Experts emphasize evidence-based approach to treating osteoarthritis, citing benefits of coxibs and NSAIDs despite gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. The OARSI international COX-2 workshop 2007 provided guidance on safe use of these agents.
Scientists from around the world present convergent views on the 'memory of water' concept, which suggests that water can display memory effects. Researchers found large-scale structural changes in liquid water, potentially accounting for claims of memory of water effects.
Researchers warn of a rare but serious complication associated with eye tests in infants. Apraclonidine eyedrops used to diagnose Horner syndrome can lead to severe lethargy lasting up to 10 hours, requiring hospital admission and oxygen administration.
Scientists, oncologists, and critics explore the use of ESAs, which can boost oxygen-carrying red blood cells and improve quality of life, but may be overprescribed due to cost and drug company influence. The debate highlights the need for fair and balanced review of data to ensure patients' needs are met.
A new study in Preventive Medicine reveals that candy cigarettes can favorably set the minds of some children towards becoming future cigarette smokers. Children who played with candy cigarettes were more likely to become adult smokers than those who never consumed them.
Artery Research is a quarterly journal published by Elsevier in collaboration with the Association for Research into Arterial Structure and Physiology (ARTERY). The journal features original articles, review articles, case studies, and more on advancements in arterial structure and physiology research.
Researchers used CT scans to reveal a close-to-the-shoulder artery lesion in the Iceman, confirming his cause of death as a result of an arrowhead injury. The discovery sheds new light on life conditions in the past and the evolution of diseases.
A study of over 3,700 middle school students found that most obtain alcohol from their parents' homes, with one-third of users getting it from family members. The research highlights the importance of parental involvement in preventing underage drinking.
A recent study suggests that aprotinin can reduce bleeding during heart surgery without increasing the risk of complications. The study found no increase in heart attack risk among patients receiving aprotinin, while the risk of stroke was 35% lower.
A study published in Immunology Letters describes new ways of inducing immune responses through selective B cell priming, suggesting a potential approach to rational vaccine design. This discovery could have significant practical implications for vaccination development.
The International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control is a new, quarterly journal focusing on technological developments for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It will include carbon capture and storage, transmission, and alternative mitigation options.
A study found that teenagers who take daily multivitamin supplements have healthier diets and lifestyles compared to non-users. Vitamin users were more likely to engage in physical activity, eat a balanced diet, and watch less TV.
Primary Care Diabetes is an influential new journal launched in February 2007, covering clinical care, education, nutrition, health services, and psychosocial research related to diabetes. The journal aims to promote the implementation of evidence-based diabetes practices in primary care settings.
A landmark publication from 100 authors offers comprehensive guidance on HPV vaccine administration and cervical cancer screening. The monograph addresses the challenges of expanding HPV-based screening to new populations and recommends universal vaccination strategies for both genders.
A recent study calculates the risks of nanotechnology, emphasizing the need for rational work to understand and minimize adverse effects. The research highlights the importance of managing exposure to manufactured nano-sized particles, particularly through respiratory or skin routes.
A UK study found that victims of rape, especially children, face wide differences in forensic and medical services between Specialized Rape Crisis Assessment Centres (SARCs) and non-SARC facilities. The lack of experienced doctors willing to provide holistic care is a major issue.
In Mississippi, physicians fought back against malpractice insurance crisis by educating patients on the benefits of tort reform, leading to a cap on noneconomic damages. In Alameda County Medical Center, advocacy focused on patient education helped pass a local tax measure to address financial crisis and protect services.
The study found that endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) significantly reduced mortality rates and recovery time for patients undergoing AAA repair, even among older and less-fit patients. The procedure's success has influenced overall AAA repair outcomes.
The stent-graft approach has been shown to result in less neck nerve injury and faster recovery compared to open neck surgery. This minimally invasive treatment can be performed under local anesthesia and allows patients to resume normal activities within two days.
A study of over 2,371 adolescent girls found that soda consumption nearly tripled while milk intake decreased by over 25% between ages 9-19. This shift is linked to increased risk of osteoporosis and weight gain due to the lack of nutritional value in sodas.
A study found that a case-based online continuing medical education (CME) program effective in improving physicians' domestic violence management skills. The program showed clear improvement in eight of the 10 measures of physician partner violence preparedness twelve months after completion.
High Energy Density Physics is a new journal launched by Elsevier to publish research on extreme conditions, including planetary interiors and astrophysical phenomena. The journal aims to provide a platform for scientists to study material properties and hydrodynamics under high-energy density regimes.
Journal of Clinical Densitometry will be published by Elsevier, offering print and electronic publishing services. Members of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry will continue to receive the print edition, and online access will be available through a dedicated website.
A study suggests that Alzheimer's patients can recognize and appreciate music, with one patient singing old songs from her youth. The researchers believe a more musical environment could improve the lives of demented individuals, sparking interest from caregivers to share their experiences.
A proposal has been developed by Drs. John L. Hick and Daniel T. O'Laughlin to set guidelines for triage of mechanical ventilators in a pandemic or bioterrorist attack. The guidelines aim to ensure equal allocation of scarce resources to patients most likely to benefit from them, promoting distributive justice.
Researchers used ancient dental pulp DNA to identify Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, the organism that causes typhoid fever, pointing to it as the probable cause of the Plague of Athens. The study sheds new light on this enigmatic event in medical history.