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Cognitive decline incidence higher in Southern stroke belt

A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that residents of the Stroke Belt, a southern region of the US, have a higher incidence of cognitive decline than other regions. The research team believes shared risk factors are to blame and suggests investigating regional patterns contributing to modifiable risk factors.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMay 26, 2011

Researchers link herpes to Alzheimer's disease

A new technique allows scientists to observe herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) infections growing inside cells, revealing a mechanism by which HSV1 leads to Alzheimer's disease. Frequent interactions between viral particles and cellular amyloid precursor protein facilitate viral transport while interfering with normal APP distribution.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 2011

New study finds no cognitive impairment among ecstasy users

A large-scale study has found that ecstasy users show no signs of cognitive impairment attributable to drug use. The research, funded by $1.8 million from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, aimed to minimize methodological limitations of earlier studies and compared 52 ecstasy users with 59 non-users.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 15, 2011

Our brain can be taught to control cravings, Yale researcher finds

A new study by Yale University researcher Hedy Kober shows that smokers can control their cravings with the help of cognitive strategies, increasing activity in the prefrontal cortex and decreasing craving-related brain activity. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be an effective tool in treating substance use disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010

Special Issue JVR focuses on potential of persons with autism

A special issue of the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation focuses on the potential of autistic young adults, highlighting their ability to form relationships and enjoy employment benefits. Researchers provide case studies and programs to support practitioners in working with this population.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation·DateApr 22, 2010

Neuroscientist steers research into neurological disorders

Scientists at Queensland Brain Institute have discovered an alternative mechanism for growth cone steering, which could lead to better understanding of nervous system development and cognitive disorders. The discovery has potential implications for research into Parkinson's disease and autism.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2010

Physical activity associated with healthier aging

Physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of age-related conditions such as arthritis, falls, and fractures, as well as improvements in cognitive function and bone density. Four new studies published in Archives of Internal Medicine have moved the scientific enterprise further along the path toward understanding the ful...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 25, 2010

CWRU researchers report poor outcomes for CCI patients leaving hospitals on ventilators

A recent study by Case Western Reserve University researchers found that CCI patients who leave hospitals on ventilators have poor outcomes, with only a small percentage achieving 'better' outcomes. The study suggests that knowledge of these outcomes is crucial for ICU clinicians and families in care planning and decision-making.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAmerican Journal of Critical Care·DateDec 3, 2009

Severe COPD may lead to cognitive impairment

Severe COPD is associated with significantly lower cognitive function in older adults, even after controlling for confounding factors. Patients with severe COPD are at greater risk for developing cognitive impairment, which can worsen their general health and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 7, 2009

Meditate your way to better bladder health

A study published in the Journal of Urology found that cognitive therapy is an effective management strategy for urge incontinence, with patients experiencing a substantial improvement in symptoms. Cognitive therapy employs deep-breathing and guided-imagery exercises to train the brain to control the bladder without medication or surgery.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateMay 4, 2009

Stroke supplement -- best practices and new recommendations to improve care

The Canadian Medical Association Journal has released a comprehensive stroke supplement featuring 27 best practice recommendations, including four new topics such as emergency medical services care of stroke patients before hospital arrival. The supplement is part of the Canadian Stroke Strategy and aims to improve stroke care in Canada.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 1, 2008

Gene screen to identify causes of autism

Researchers used a new genetic screening method, MLPA, on children with autism spectrum disorders to identify known genetic causes of cognitive impairment. The study found efficient identification of well-known genetic disorders and novel genetic changes contributing to ASDs, such as microduplications in chromosomes 15 and 22.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medical Genomics·DateOct 15, 2008

New light on link between snoring and cognitive deficits in children

A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) experience cognitive deficits, but the severity is difficult to correlate. Researchers measured regional cerebral oxygen concentration and blood pressure during sleep to understand the comple...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 7, 2008

Brain region that can be stimulated to reduce the cognitive deficits of sleep deprivation identified

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a brain region that can be stimulated to reduce cognitive deficits associated with sleep deprivation. The study used repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to improve working memory performance in young adults after extended sleep deprivation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateFeb 1, 2008

Behavior therapy plus medication may help teens with depression and substance use disorders

A randomized controlled trial found that combining fluoxetine with cognitive behavioral therapy improved depression scores in teens with co-occurring depression and substance abuse disorders. The treatment was as effective as the antidepressant alone in treating depression among teens without substance abuse problems.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 5, 2007

Algorithm for mapping mild cognitive impairment

Researchers present a new framework for mapping mild cognitive impairment, including an online diagnostic algorithm. The framework characterizes different classifications of MCI and their patterns of etiology, cognitive decline, and clinical outcome.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 29, 2007

New imaging technique identifies people-at-risk for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers developed a new imaging technique that detects abnormal brain protein deposits associated with Alzheimer's disease in mild cognitive impairment. The study found that the method was more effective in differentiating patients with Alzheimer's disease from normal subjects, and tracked disease progression over a two-year period.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 20, 2006