Articles tagged with Dementia
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommends withholding or withdrawing gastrostomy tubes in patients with advanced dementia. Current scientific evidence suggests that tube feeding does not improve outcomes in this population, instead leading to high mortality rates.
A nearly 40-year-long study found that middle-aged women experiencing anxiety, jealousy, and moodiness are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Women who scored highest on neuroticism tests had double the risk of dementia, with those who were both easily distressed and withdrawn having the highest risk.
The report shows an almost doubling of dementia in people with Down syndrome and significantly reduced rates of heart attack and hypertension. People with ID experience unique health challenges, including poor bone health and low physical activity levels.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that progranulin deficiency can increase amyloid-beta plaque formation, neuroinflammation, and cognitive dysfunction in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Increasing progranulin levels via gene therapy effectively prevented these abnormalities and protected against cell death.
A study published in Neurology found that people who notice their memory slipping may be on to something, with 56% of participants reporting changes in their memory. The study suggests a significant window of opportunity for intervention before diagnosable problems show up, approximately 12 years after initial complaints began.
Research suggests that people with memory issues without dementia are at higher risk of developing the disease. A 12-year study found nearly three times more likelihood of memory problems in those reporting changes, emphasizing the importance of taking such complaints seriously.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created the first mouse model for ALS dementia, allowing scientists to directly view the brains of living mice under anesthesia. This breakthrough enables rapid testing and real-time monitoring of test drugs, paving the way for accelerated development of effective therapies.
A large case-control study found that long-term benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that the strongest association was seen with long-acting benzodiazepines, emphasizing the need for careful balance between benefits and risks in elderly patients.
A recent study found that more than 60% of people with dementia have three or more other conditions, but these are often not adequately described in clinical trials. The combined effects of co-morbidities like diabetes and chronic heart failure can lead to worsening symptoms and increased risk of preventable dementia admissions.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients with advanced dementia are still being prescribed medications with little to no proven benefit. The study analyzed data from over 5,400 nursing home residents and found that nearly 54% received at least one questionable medication.
A new study finds that volunteering is associated with reductions in depression symptoms, better overall health, and greater longevity. Volunteering appears to peak at a moderate level, with benefits diminishing beyond 100 hours annually.
Researchers at the University of Warwick found that a lack of the MK2/3 protein is linked to structural and physiological changes in the nervous system, leading to early signs of dementia. These changes restrict learning and memory formation capabilities, but not memory formation itself.
Researchers found retinal thinning as an early marker for frontotemporal dementia, prior to cognitive symptoms. The retina acts as a 'window to the brain,' and studying it can track changes in neurons.
A new study published in the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias found that mindfulness training can brighten outlooks on life for both individuals with memory loss and their caregivers. The training eased depression, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall quality of life.
Research reveals that being obese in one's 30s triples the risk of developing dementia later in life. The study found an incremental decrease in dementia risk with age, suggesting that weight loss or delayed onset of obesity may lower the risk of dementia.
Researchers have identified a small molecule capable of interrupting the disease process in cells carrying the C9ORF72 gene, a variant associated with ALS and FTD. The compound selectively targets abnormal RNA molecules, reducing their accumulation and potentially serving as a biomarker for clinical trials.
Researchers developed small-molecule drug candidates that interfere with the synthesis of an abnormal protein, playing a key role in both diseases. The study also discovered biomarkers to test the efficacy of these therapies and found toxic proteins in spinal fluid that could become an enrollment tool in human clinical trials.
Scientists at Mayo Clinic and Scripps Research Institute developed a new therapeutic strategy to combat the most common genetic risk factor for ALS and FTD. They discovered a potential biomarker that can track disease progression and measure the efficacy of therapies.
A study found that altered brain activity, measured by PET scans, is associated with impaired daily living activities in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The researchers identified changes in frontal and temporal areas of the brain linked to memory and decision-making.
Researchers found that autophagy is activated in the hippocampus of vascular dementia model rats, leading to neuronal injury. Inhibiting autophagy has shown neuroprotective effects, suggesting it as a novel pathway and target for drug treatment of vascular dementia.
A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has confirmed a substantial link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older adults. The research found that participants with severe vitamin D deficiency were more than twice as likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in Neurology found that low vitamin D levels double the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older people. Researchers analyzed blood levels of vitamin D and found a significant association between low vitamin D levels and increased dementia risk.
A 20-year study found that midlife hypertension was associated with a moderate decline in cognition compared to individuals with normal blood pressure. The study used the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study and analyzed data from 13,476 participants.
A new SUNY research project aims to understand the connection between frailty and dementia, with the goal of maximizing patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life. The project will develop tools to assess frailty risk factors and determine their correlation with cognitive assessments.
A telephone-based support program has been shown to significantly reduce depression and symptoms in informal caregivers of individuals with dementia. This study, published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia, highlights the benefits of convenient and accessible support for caregivers who often face significant pressure and stress.
A new study indicates that depression is a true risk factor for dementia and that targeting depression may help prevent cognitive decline. People with mild cognitive impairment were more likely to have higher levels of depression symptoms before diagnosis.
A new study by Rush University Medical Center researchers found that depression is independently associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. The study suggests that targeting and treating depression could help prevent or delay cognitive decline in older adults.
A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry indicates that middle-aged adults with a history of problem drinking are more than twice as likely to suffer from severe memory impairment in later life. The research highlights the link between harmful patterns of alcohol consumption and problems with memory, which may ...
Gitlin, a renowned gerontologist, has made significant contributions to nonpharmacologic approaches in dementia care and aging in place. Her work aims to improve the lives of chronically disabled older adults and their family caregivers.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found dementia patients are more likely to receive a pacemaker for atrial fibrillation than those without cognitive impairment, despite being diagnosed with less aggressive interventions. The likelihood was highest among dementia patients, even after accounting for clinical factors.
Researchers found that patients with dementia were more likely to receive a pacemaker, even after adjusting for clinical risk factors. The study suggests that patients with serious life-limiting illnesses may be treated more aggressively than expected.
A new test diagnoses motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), which combines gait speed measurement with cognitive questions. People who test positive for MCR are twice as likely to develop dementia within 12 years, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and potential underlying cause identification.
Researchers focus on areas of memory and learning to treat obesity, suggesting a link between the two diseases. The 'vicious cycle' model proposes that overeating leads to brain pathologies, which can weaken control over thoughts and behaviors.
A study found that fish oil compound protected against inflammation and neuronal cell death in brain cells exposed to high levels of alcohol. The findings suggest limited amounts of alcohol may make brain cells more fit, reducing the risk of neurodegeneration and dementia.
A systematic review of 17 research studies found that outdoor spaces can reduce residents' agitation and provide environments for relaxation and social interaction. Gardens could offer welcome spaces for visitors to stimulate memories for dementia patients.
Research at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference 2014 found that participating in mentally stimulating activities and moderate physical exercise in middle age may help protect against Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, high blood pressure was seen to protect against cognitive decline in people aged 90 and older.
The Lancet Neurology calls for sports authorities to consider long-term neurological problems caused by repeated concussions in footballers. Many sporting organisations have drawn up new protocols to protect athletes who sustain a head injury, but the decision on return-to-play should be made solely by healthcare professionals.
Montefiore and Einstein researchers present data at the 2014 Alzheimer's Association International Conference, focusing on triggers for mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The research aims to identify potential strategies to preserve cognitive function and delay or prevent Alzheimer's disease onset.
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory problems, orientation issues, and behavioral changes. A simplified diagnosis using specific biomarkers improves the accuracy of early-stage diagnoses.
Researchers have found that boosting autophagy, a cell-cleaning process, can help clear abnormal protein buildup in brain cells. Three drugs that enhance autophagy showed promise in keeping brain cells alive longer, potentially offering new treatment options for conditions like ALS and dementia.
A common genetic defect affects neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by impairing microglial waste removal. This leads to accumulation of toxic protein deposits, triggering inflammatory reactions that promote further nerve-cell loss.
A recent study published in Neurology suggests that veterans with a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are 60% more likely to develop dementia than those without TBI. The study found that veterans with TBI developed dementia about two years earlier, highlighting the potential long-term consequences of TBI on cognitive health.
A RAND Corporation study emphasizes the urgent need to improve long-term care services for people with dementia and their caregivers. The study offers 25 high-impact policy options to address this growing concern, including increasing public awareness, improving access to services, and reducing financial burdens.
A study examining lifetime intellectual enrichment found that it may delay the onset of cognitive impairment and reduce the risk of dementia. The research suggests that engaging in mentally stimulating activities throughout life could be a successful preventive intervention to combat the impending dementia epidemic.
A new diagnostic tool, combining data from multiple sources, can help clinicians diagnose Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and mild cognitive impairment with a Disease State Index. The tool also provides a visual representation of the findings in a Disease State Fingerprint.
A group of experts examines whether people with advanced dementia have the right to use advance directives to stop receiving food and water by mouth, despite lacking decision-making capacity. Key findings include the potential benefits and harms of such directives, as well as proposed guidelines for implementation.
Research highlights dangers of elderly gun ownership due to dementia, depression, and suicide risks. Proposed '5 L's' questions aim to identify guns in homes with vulnerable individuals.
Researchers at King's College London have discovered a molecular 'scaffold' that allows key parts of cells to interact, which comes apart in dementia and motor neuron disease, revealing a potential new target for drug discovery.
People with high levels of cynicism are three times more likely to develop dementia than those with low levels, according to the study. High cynicism was also initially linked to earlier death, but this association disappeared after adjusting for other factors.
A holistic exercise program combining cognitive activities with physical movements has been shown to improve the quality of life for dementia patients. Participants demonstrated enhanced memory recall and experienced pain relief, while care-givers also benefited from the program.
A study by Intermountain Medical Center found that AFib patients on blood thinning medications are at higher risk of developing dementia if their doses are not within the optimal recommended range. Patients with dosages outside this range were 4.5 times more likely to develop dementia.
Researchers discovered that people with a variant of the longevity gene KLOTHO have improved brain skills, such as thinking and learning, which decreases with age. Increasing KLOTHO levels in mice may boost cognitive abilities by strengthening connections between nerve cells.
People with Alzheimer's experience a clear improvement in dementia-related behavior after visiting horses under supervision, with reduced fidgeting and resistance to care. The therapy boosts physical activity and lifts their mood, providing a unique way to ease symptoms without drugs.
Patients with a documented diagnosis of dementia are nearly 20% more likely to be readmitted within 30 days than those without dementia. This is due to difficulties comprehending discharge instructions and multiple medical conditions.
A new approach called DICE aims to reduce behavioral problems in dementia by empowering caregivers, patients, and health providers. The DICE method involves Describe, Investigate, Evaluate, and Create steps to change dementia patients' behavior through environmental modifications and other interventions.
A study published in Neurology found that older adults with rapid memory and thinking skills decline may be less likely to die from cancer. The research followed over 2,600 participants aged 65 and above for nearly 13 years and found a significant difference in cancer mortality rates between those with fast versus slow cognitive decline.
Aerobic exercise has been found to increase hippocampal volume and improve verbal memory capacity in older women with mild cognitive impairment. The study suggests that regular aerobic exercise can help slow the advance of dementia.
The innovative Healthy Aging Brain Center care model improves health outcomes and quality of care for older adults with cognitive impairment by reducing patients' behavioral and psychological symptoms. The model generates an annual net cost savings of up to $2,856 per patient, with potential nationwide cost savings of billions of dollars.
Two new dementia care models seek to decrease stress for caregivers, reduce health care costs and improve quality of care for older adults. Caregivers' close involvement with the medical team is a key feature of both models.
As the US population ages, Alzheimer's disease is projected to increase from 3 million in 2011 to over 10 million by 2050, affecting broad-based national policies. The annual cost of care for people over 70 is estimated at $157-$215 billion, with costs expected to reach $1.2-$1.6 trillion by 2040.