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Using AI for mental health assessment

Researchers used machine learning on UK Biobank data to create proxy measures for brain age, intelligence, and neuroticism traits. These indirect measurements strongly correlate with specific diseases or outcomes, offering a potential solution for mental health diagnoses.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 15, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Brain ‘noise’ may hold the keys to psychiatric treatment efficacy

Researchers have identified that moment-to-moment brain signal variability can reliably predict the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with social anxiety disorder. This finding suggests that neural variability may be a reliable indicator of individual differences in treatment response, particularly when using ...

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 14, 2021

Telehealth addiction treatment rose rapidly during pandemic; but potential benefits still unclear

New research highlights the potential of telehealth to increase patient engagement through improved access and convenience. However, studies found limited evidence that telehealth results in better retention or outcomes compared to in-person treatment. Researchers emphasize the need for more empirical work to confirm its benefits.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A new framework for protecting mental health in cities

Researchers from UvA's Centre for Urban Mental Health propose a new conceptual framework to understand the dynamic interplay between urban factors and mental health. The framework identifies key factors influencing urban environments and their impact on mental well-being, including air pollution, noise, and social cohesion.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 7, 2021

Treating severe depression with on-demand brain stimulation

Researchers created a customized device that targets unique brain circuits associated with depression, providing immediate relief. The approach uses neural biomarkers to personalize therapy and has shown long-term efficacy in treatment-resistant patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 4, 2021

At-risk teens may face increased online threats

Research finds that at-risk teen girls who have experienced sexual abuse are more likely to be cyberbullied and experience heightened offline sexual activities. Targeted intervention strategies using algorithm-based approaches could help these teens navigate the Internet safely.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Depressed COVID patients respond better than expected to antidepressants

A pilot study found that depressed COVID patients responded well to SSRIs, with 91% showing improvement within 4 weeks. The study suggests post-COVID depression is treatable and may benefit from antidepressant treatment.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalEuropean Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2021

Intestinal drug shown to boost memory and cognition

Researchers found that an existing drug, prucalopride, can improve cognitive function by enhancing activity in brain areas related to memory. In a study of 44 healthy volunteers, those taking prucalopride performed better on a memory test and showed increased activity in the hippocampus and right angular gyrus.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2021

Scientists find protein which indicates whether memories can be changed

Researchers have discovered a protein called "shank" that acts as a biomarker for modifiable memories. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by identifying factors that make memories susceptible to change.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2021

Depressed adolescents’ brains shown to mute distressing information

Researchers found that depressed adolescents' brains reduce activity in brain areas related to visual processing when shown distressing images. Antidepressant treatment restored brain activity to healthy levels, suggesting a potential vulnerability in adolescent brains.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Psychological treatment shown to yield strong, lasting pain relief, alter brain networks

A new study shows that a four-week psychological treatment called Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) can provide potent and durable relief for chronic back pain in two-thirds of patients. The treatment alters brain networks associated with pain processing, reducing symptoms that last for up to one year.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 2021

Staying on long-term antidepressants reduces risk of relapse

A new study by UCL researchers has found that staying on long-term antidepressants reduces the risk of relapse by 39% compared to those who stop taking them. The study involved 478 primary care patients and found that 56% experienced a relapse within a year if they discontinued their medication, while only 26% did so after a full year.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 2021

Happiness in early adulthood may protect against dementia

A new study led by UCSF indicates that depression in early adulthood can increase the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. The research found that moderate or high depressive symptoms were associated with a 73% higher odds of cognitive impairment among older participants.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateSep 28, 2021

Human rights violations of older people: The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry publishes special issue to tackle ageism, mentalism and ableism

The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry publishes a special issue to strengthen the rights and voices of older people worldwide. The issue aims to reduce the burden of ageism, mentalism and ableism, which currently permeates virtually every aspect of older persons' lives.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateSep 27, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia

A new study found that schizophrenia is associated with a loss of excitation but an increase in inhibition, resulting in hallucinations. The researchers used EEG data from 107 participants to demonstrate decreased synaptic gain, which may guide pharmacological and neurostimulation treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 23, 2021

ECNP 2021: Europe’s main applied neuroscience conference

The European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) conference, ECNP 2021, will take place in Lisbon and online from October 2-5. Over a thousand abstracts are expected to be presented on various topics in psychiatry and neuroscience.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 21, 2021

More sleep boosts teens’ ability to cope with pandemic

A new study from McGill University reveals that delaying school start times can help reduce stress and improve coping skills in teenagers during times of crisis. The research found that allowing teens to follow their natural sleep-wake cycle led to improved mental health outcomes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalChild and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 17, 2021

Six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment revealed in new, diverse study

Researchers at Boston Medical Center have identified six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment, highlighting the importance of breaking down barriers for racial and ethnic minority families. The study provides a comprehensive framework that can help healthcare systems better match the needs of children with ADHD and their families.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 16, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

September issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover improving treatment for opioid use disorder, mental health perspective on police reform

The September issues of American Psychiatric Association journals explore innovative treatments for opioid use disorder and analyze the mental health implications of police reform. Research articles cover various disorders, including ADHD, anorexia nervosa, and cardiovascular disease in psychiatric patients.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 14, 2021

Not (just) a shock: ECT reduces suicides in depressed elders

A new study found that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) significantly reduces deaths by suicide among older adults with depression in the months following hospitalization. The therapy may also improve overall health and cognitive functioning.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2021

Schizophrenia study suggests advanced genetic scorecard cannot predict a patient’s fate

A Mount Sinai study found that polygenic risk scores were no better at predicting worsening symptoms than written reports in schizophrenia patients. The results raise questions about the use of polygenic risk scores in real-world situations, suggesting a doctor's report may be an untapped source of predictive information.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Improved mental health support for frontline workers urgently needed

A new study by UCL researchers highlights the significant mental health burden on frontline healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study calls for increased mental health awareness training, more assertive outreach to identify those in need, and sustained funding for psychological support services.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 2, 2021

Tele-psychiatry a resounding success in 5-year trial

A five-year telepsychiatry trial found significant improvements in rural patients' access to care, mental health symptoms, and quality of life. The study treated over 1,000 patients with bipolar disorder and/or PTSD, often underserved by traditional mental health services.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 25, 2021

From mathematics to medicine: Applying complex mathematics to analyze fMRI data

A Wayne State University researcher is applying topological data analysis to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to discover hidden brain structures. This collaboration aims to provide medical researchers with new tools for analyzing complex fMRI data.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Mechanism behind compulsive alcohol use revealed

A study published in Science Advances reveals a previously unknown mechanism behind compulsive alcohol use, which may be targeted by medication. A small group of nerve cells in the central amygdala promote alcohol use despite negative consequences.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Just 10% of kids with ADHD outgrow it, study finds

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that most children diagnosed with ADHD don't outgrow the disorder. In fact, researchers followed a group of 558 children with ADHD for 16 years and found that only 10% completely outgrew it.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 13, 2021

Black students disproportionately disciplined with suspensions and detentions in elementary school

A study of over 11,000 elementary school students found Black children are 3.5 times more likely to receive detentions or suspensions than their white peers, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. This disparity suggests individual biases and systemic racism may be contributing to the findings.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2021

Brain gene expression patterns altered by chronic opioid use

A new study has found that chronic opioid use changes gene expression in the brains of people with opioid use disorder (OUD), suggesting proinflammatory signaling and synaptic remodeling. The affected genes involved in immune response and neuronal connections were also identified, offering new targets for treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 10, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Study suggests need to screen older adults for mental health symptoms as pandemic continues

A new study suggests that older adults, particularly women and those in fair or poor health, are more likely to experience worsened mental health symptoms during the pandemic. The study recommends screening for depression, anxiety, and sleep problems and connecting participants to treatment resources.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJul 28, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Measuring creativity, one word at a time

Researchers from McGill University and Harvard University developed a simple test to measure creative potential, using the Divergent Association Task (DAT). The study found that naming unrelated words can predict creativity levels, with greater distances between words indicating higher creative abilities.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2021

July issues of American Psychiatric Association journals

The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services journals released their July issues, exploring how structural racism impacts mental health. The studies include the effects of socioeconomic deprivation on psychosis and reducing public stigma towards individuals with OCD.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 2021

Psychiatric patients at increased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality

A large meta-analysis of 33 studies from 22 countries found that psychiatric patients are twice as likely to die or be hospitalized after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patients with psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and those receiving antipsychotic or anxiolytic treatments are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19-associated mortality.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJul 16, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study finds toddlers with ASD do not differ in progress made in comparison of two treatment types

Researchers compared two treatment types for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and found no significant differences in outcomes. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, shows that common elements may be more important than differences in intervention styles.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJul 8, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Antidepressants safe during pregnancy

A recent study found that mothers with psychiatric disorders had a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delay in their children. In contrast, antidepressant use was not associated with an increased risk of ASD. The research provides reassurance for pregnant women taking SSRIs.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 24, 2021

Study suggests unmedicated, untreated brain illness is likely in mass shooters

A new study analyzing medical evidence on domestic mass shooters in the US finds that a majority of perpetrators have psychiatric disorders without treatment, increasing risk of violence. The researchers identified signs and symptoms of brain illness in 32 out of 35 perpetrators, with most having schizophrenia or other diagnoses.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateJun 9, 2021

Neurological symptoms like fatigue common in mild COVID

A new meta-analysis of 215 COVID-19 studies reveals a wide range of ways the virus affects mental health and brain function. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of smell, depression, anxiety, and headaches, even in mild cases, suggesting that mental health impacts may be more prevalent than expected.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 3, 2021

Technology to monitor mental wellbeing might be right at your fingertips

Researchers developed a smart electronic platform to monitor mental wellbeing between doctor visits, using facial cues, voice patterns, and vital signs sensors. The technology provides continuous access to patient variables and status, enabling care teams to reach out to patients in need.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateMay 26, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Online CBT effective for social anxiety disorder in young people

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed an internet-delivered CBT programme that significantly reduces social anxiety and comorbid psychiatric symptoms in young people with SAD. The digital format increases accessibility and reduces therapist time, making it a cost-effective option.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 12, 2021

International study links brain thinning to psychosis

An international team found a link between subtle differences in adolescent brain shape and psychosis development, with those at high risk showing widespread lower cortical thickness. This discovery could contribute to earlier detection and treatment of psychosis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 5, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Men's loneliness linked to an increased risk of cancer

A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland found that middle-aged men who experience loneliness are at an increased risk of developing cancer. The study, which followed 2,570 men over time, found that loneliness was associated with a 10% higher risk of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateApr 27, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Leptin puts the brakes on eating via novel neurocircuit

Researchers discovered novel neurocircuitry in mice that links leptin to the brain's dopamine reward system, reducing food intake. The study suggests targeting specific neurons may help treat anorexia nervosa and support dieting in obese individuals.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 6, 2021

The Lancet Psychiatry: Largest study to date suggests link between COVID-19 infection and subsequent mental health and neurological conditions

A large study found that COVID-19 survivors are at a higher risk of developing anxiety, mood disorders, stroke, dementia, and other neurological conditions. The study analyzed data from over 236,000 patients and estimated that one in three COVID-19 survivors developed a neurological or psychiatric condition within six months.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 6, 2021