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Bed sharing with parents increases risk of cot death fivefold

A large analysis published in BMJ Open found that bed sharing with parents increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by fivefold. The study advises against bed sharing for babies under three months old, citing a significant reduction in SIDS deaths when babies sleep on their backs in a cot.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateMay 20, 2013

2 genes do not make a voter

Researchers question the validity of studies linking specific genes to complex behaviors like voting due to methodological errors and inconsistencies across multiple studies. The findings contradict current understanding of genetics' role in shaping human traits.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateFeb 29, 2012

OHSU discovery may someday lead to prevention and treatment of sudden infant death syndrome

Researchers at OHSU discovered glial cells, previously thought to support growth, actually regulate the growth of brainstem neurons responsible for cardiorespiratory control. This finding has profound implications for the prevention and treatment of SIDS, with potential applications in high blood pressure and other disorders.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNeuroscience·DateFeb 16, 2012

Catching a breath -- wirelessly

Researchers developed a noninvasive wireless system to measure breathing rates, alerting caregivers if breathing stops. The technique could increase surgery patient safety and reduce infant mortality by detecting sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) without invasive monitoring.

Researchers develop mouse with 'off switch' in key brain cell population

Scientists create genetically modified mice with a built-in 'off switch' for their serotonin-producing cells, which control breathing, temperature regulation, and mood. The discovery sheds light on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and depressive disorders, two conditions linked to low serotonin levels.

Study links factors to choice of infant sleep position

A study has identified three key factors linked to the choice of infant sleep position: physician recommendations, fear of choking, and comfort concerns. Back sleeping remains the most effective means to reduce SIDS risk, with a significant decrease in rates since the Back to Sleep campaign began.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateDec 7, 2009

Percentage of babies placed to sleep on their backs levels off

The rate of babies placed on their backs to sleep has plateaued since 2001, despite the Back to Sleep campaign's dramatic decrease in SIDS rates. Racial disparities persist in infant sleeping positions, with African American infants having more than twice the SIDS rate as white infants.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateDec 7, 2009

Was SIDS the cause of infant deaths even 150 years ago?

A study suggests that 19th century infant deaths attributed to smothering and overlaying were likely caused by Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The analysis of mortality schedules from 1850-1880 found that these deaths shared similar characteristics with known SIDS cases, including age, gender, and racial patterns.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Ecology·DateJul 14, 2009

Using a fan during sleep associated with lower risk of SIDS

A study found that using a fan during sleep significantly lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), particularly in rooms with inadequate ventilation. The use of fans was associated with a 72% decrease in SIDS risk, especially in infants who slept on their sides or shared beds.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 6, 2008

Smoking during pregnancy increases risk of SIDS

A new study links smoking during pregnancy to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) with the strongest causal link yet. The research found that prenatal cigarette smoke exposure can increase the likelihood of gasp-like respiration and prolong breathing time after hypoxia, placing infants at higher risk for SIDS.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 30, 2008

SIDS infants show abnormalities in brain area controlling breathing, heart rate

Researchers found that SIDS infants had more neurons manufacturing and using serotonin than control infants, but fewer serotonin receptors, suggesting an abnormal level of serotonin. This study provides the strongest evidence to date for a specific brain area controlling breathing and heart rate abnormalities in SIDS.

Genetic cause of sudden infant death in African Americans

Researchers identified a common cardiac sodium channel variant, SCN5A S1103Y, as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in African Americans. The study provides new insights into the genetic causes of SIDS and highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between genetic and environmental factors.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 1, 2006