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Yale University


Beta blockers reduce stress-induced irregular heart rhythm

A new study by Yale researchers found that beta blockers can minimize the impact of negative emotions on heart rhythm in individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation. The medication reduced the risk of AFib episodes triggered by stress and anger, while still having an effect on those taking beta-blockers.

SourceYale University·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

'Stepped' treatment reduces drinking in patients with HIV

A Yale-led study found that integrated stepped alcohol treatment reduced heavy drinking days and improved abstinence rates in patients with HIV. The treatment model, which involves 'stepping up' treatments based on patient needs, also led to better HIV outcomes, including higher medication adherence and undetectable viral loads.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateMay 17, 2019

Flu virus' best friend: Low humidity

Researchers at Yale University have identified low humidity as a key factor in increasing flu virus transmission and severity. The study found that low humidity impairs the immune response, preventing cilia from removing viral particles and reducing airway cells' ability to repair damage.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2019

Magma is the key to the moon's makeup

Researchers at Yale University and Japan offer an explanation for the moon's composition, suggesting that magma played a key role in its formation. The new model suggests that 80% of the moon is made up of proto-Earth materials, contradicting previous theories that suggested the impactor was responsible.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 29, 2019

Meet Callichimaera perplexa, the platypus of crabs

Callichimaera perplexa is the earliest known swimming arthropod with paddle-like legs since the extinction of sea scorpions. Its unique appearance, including large compound eyes and bent claws, suggests that it may have evolved through heterochrony, a process where larval traits are retained in miniaturized adults.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 24, 2019

Bacterial nanowire mystery solved

Geobacter bacteria project metal-containing heme filaments called nanowires to dispose of excess electrons in oxygen-free environments. This discovery solves the mystery of how nanowires facilitate environmental cleanup and potential applications for building new materials and sensors.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateApr 4, 2019

Racial disparities persist in access to kidney transplants

Racial disparities in access to kidney transplants continue, with patients from underserved groups more likely to be listed as inactive and less likely to receive transplants than white patients. A new study analyzing data from 2014-2016 found significant inequities despite a system aimed at increasing access for vulnerable populations.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 3, 2019

Study links insurance coverage to access to hospital care

Researchers found that uninsured and Medicaid patients are more likely to be transferred from emergency departments, discharged without admission, or admitted to hospitals with limited critical care services. Financial incentives for hospitals may contribute to these disparities in access to acute hospital care.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 1, 2019

New shapes of laser beam 'sneak' through opaque media

Researchers at Yale University have developed a technique to pre-treat laser beams, allowing them to penetrate opaque surfaces undisturbed. This breakthrough has potential applications for deep-tissue imaging and optogenetics, where light is used to probe and manipulate cells in living tissue.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 4, 2019

The case of the over-tilting exoplanets

Researchers propose that obliquity is a key factor in the formation of pairs of over-tilting exoplanets, leading to extreme seasons and weather patterns. The study could have significant implications for estimating the structure, climate, and habitability of these planets.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 4, 2019

Happy in marriage? Genetics may play a role

A new study found that couples with the GG genotype in the oxytocin gene receptor reported greater marital satisfaction and feelings of security. This genetic variation affects social bonding and is linked to personality traits such as emotional stability and empathy.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 2019

A taste for fat may have made us human, says study

A new paper in Current Anthropology proposes that early human ancestors acquired a taste for fat by eating marrow scavenged from large animal skeletons. This fatty diet provided the necessary calories to develop bigger brains, contradicting the widely held view that meat consumption was crucial for human evolution.

SourceYale University·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateFeb 5, 2019

Opioid crisis roadmap overlooks gender

The opioid crisis roadmap neglects significant data on sex and gender differences, which are crucial for developing effective interventions. Women experience distinct pain and addiction patterns compared to men, and are more likely to relapse and face greater functional impairment.

SourceYale University·JournalBiology of Sex Differences·DateJan 6, 2019

School-based nutritional programs reduce student obesity

A new study led by Yale University finds that school-based nutritional programs limit increases in body mass index (BMI) among middle school students. Students in schools with enhanced nutrition policies and programs reported healthier behaviors and had lower BMI trajectories compared to those without such support.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Pot withdrawal eased for dependent users

A new drug has been shown to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms and increase abstinence in those trying to quit, according to a Yale-led study. The medication works by inhibiting the enzyme that degrades anandamide, a brain chemical that acts on brain cannabis receptors.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateDec 6, 2018