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Stress can enhance ordinary, unrelated memories

Researchers found that stress activates memory recall of unrelated experiences in laboratory rats, which may offer insights into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions. The study's results suggest that traumatic stress can reactivate non-traumatic memories, linking them to the traumatic experience.

SourceNew York University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 21, 2010

Children's best friend

A new Université de Montreal study found that trained service dogs can significantly reduce stress hormone levels in autistic children, from an average of 33 problematic behaviors to just 25. The dogs also improved socialization skills and overall well-being for the children.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateOct 19, 2010

Short stressful events may improve working memory

Researchers found that acute stress enhances learning and memory by increasing glutamate transmission in the prefrontal cortex. The study suggests that moderate stress may be beneficial for cognitive function, contradicting the common perception of chronic stress as detrimental.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2009

Caregivers may benefit from adult day care

Adult day care can help alleviate caregiver stress by lifting responsibility for a few hours, promoting sleep and well-being in those cared for. The study will assess the impact of day care on caregivers' health and stress levels over three years with 180 participants.

Of body and mind, and deep meditation

Integrative body-mind training (IBMT) alters blood flow and electrical activity in the brain, breathing quality, and even skin conductance, allowing for a state of relaxation, calmness, and reduced stress. IBMT improves connection between central nervous system structures and promotes integration of brain and body.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2009

Witnessing violence affects kids' health

Exposure to community violence in school-aged children disrupts their normal cortisol production pattern, leading to physiological symptoms and potential long-term negative health effects. The study found a link between stress symptoms and cortisol levels, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to monitor these children's health.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·DateApr 21, 2009

Accurate assessment of heart disease leads to earlier, more aggressive therapy

A study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that myocardial perfusion testing with gated single photon emission computed tomography (gated SPECT) is a more accurate predictor of prognosis in chronic ischemic heart disease. Gated SPECT identified individuals at risk for future cardiac events, enabling early initiation of ...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 1, 2009

Ski tourism stressing capercaillie

Researchers found ski tourism raises stress levels among capercaillie, harming their fitness and ability to breed. The study recommends keeping forests inhabited by the birds free from tourism infrastructure.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 2, 2008

Loneliness is bad for your health

A study by Louise Hawkley and John Cacioppo found that loneliness accumulates over time and contributes to increased stress, chronic inflammation, and poorer sleep quality in older adults. The researchers also discovered that lonely individuals exhibit a heightened state of arousal and are less likely to seek help when stressed.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateAug 17, 2007

Decrease in progression of prostate cancer

A recent study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies found that a plant-based diet combined with stress management training can significantly reduce the rate of progression of prostate cancer. The study showed a significant decrease in PSA levels, indicating a reduction in disease progression.

SourceSAGE·JournalIntegrative Cancer Therapies·DateAug 15, 2006

Mental stress may lead to heart disease

A new study published in Psychophysiology found that mental stress increases blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease. The research used fMRI to correlate changes in brain activity with blood pressure during stress, providing new insights into the physiological effects of mental stress.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPsychophysiology·DateJan 10, 2006

Designing a robot that can sense human emotion

Researchers at Vanderbilt University are developing a robot that can detect and respond to human emotions. They use physiological signals such as heart rate, skin conductance, and facial muscle activity to analyze a person's psychological state. The robot is programmed to recognize specific patterns and provide supportive responses.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalRobotica·DateDec 16, 2002