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Even brief maternal deprivation early in life alters adult brain function and cognition

A new animal model study found that brief maternal deprivation in early life alters adult brain function and cognition, leading to memory impairment and decreased communication between brain regions. The findings suggest a potential link between early-life trauma and the development of schizophrenia.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMay 3, 2018

Interconnected cells-in-a-dish let researchers study brain disease

Salk scientists develop a new way to study brain cell connections, revealing how communication is altered in people with schizophrenia. By creating multiple types of neurons from stem cells and observing their interactions, the team showed that CA3 pyramidal neurons form physical connections both to other CA3 neurons and to DG neurons.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 3, 2018

Research reveals stronger people have healthier brains

A study of nearly half a million participants found that muscular strength is associated with improved brain functioning across various tests, including reaction speed and memory. The research also suggests that weight training could be beneficial for people with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and depression.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateApr 19, 2018

Researchers find resilience counteracts effects of childhood abuse and neglect on health

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that individuals with schizophrenia who experienced childhood trauma had improved health outcomes when they possessed high levels of psychological resilience. The research team evaluated data from 114 participants with schizophrenia and 101 non-psychiatric comparison subjects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateApr 17, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Butterflies of the soul

Researchers have detailed for the first time how interneurons emerge and diversify in the brain, tracing their lineage from earliest precursor states to mature forms in mice. The study identified key genetic programs that determine the fate of developing interneurons, shedding light on their functions and potential treatment strategies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 30, 2018

Childhood trauma link offers treatment hope for people with schizophrenia

Researchers have established a link between childhood trauma and severe hallucinations in schizophrenia, offering new treatment hope. The study found that childhood trauma was associated with hallucinations and delusions, and may help empower young patients to make informed decisions about their mental health.

SourceOrygen·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateMar 12, 2018

Genetics researchers close in on schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered 50 new gene regions increasing schizophrenia risk, including genes previously associated with intellectual disability and autism. These findings shed light on the disorder's complex genetics, suggesting subtle genetic variants can contribute to its development.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Looking for the origins of schizophrenia

Researchers found that neural cells from schizophrenic patients produce less pro-angiogenic molecules and more anti-angiogenic proteins, impairing blood vessel formation. The study provides new insights into the causes of schizophrenia and potential therapeutic solutions.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Researchers uncover novel mechanism behind schizophrenia

A study published in PNAS found that a protein called neuregulin 3 suppresses the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter essential for learning, in people with schizophrenia. The researchers used genetic and biochemical techniques to investigate how neuregulin 3 controls neurotransmitters in the brain.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2018

Food preservative enhances schizophrenia treatment

A randomized, double-blind trial showed that adding sodium benzoate to clozapine improved negative symptoms and overall symptoms in patients with refractory schizophrenia. The treatment had no side effects and may provide hope for treating the most difficult-to-treat patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Scientists open window into psychotic mind

Researchers aim to identify brain mechanisms related to psychosis by studying corollary discharge signals in individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They will use an fMRI scanner to investigate the oculomotor system, which is thought to support a subjective sense of agency in these patients.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJan 17, 2018
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.

Oversimplifying beliefs about causes of mental illness may hinder social acceptance

A Baylor University study found that combining biological and non-biological beliefs about mental illness causes can lead to increased stigma. The researchers suggest that addressing these complex views in public campaigns and policy initiatives could help reduce stigma, particularly for conditions like depression and schizophrenia.

SourceBaylor University·JournalSociety and Mental Health·DateJan 9, 2018

Rare forms of 'thunder' protein may be linked to schizophrenia

Researchers identified rare genetic variations in Thorase protein associated with schizophrenia, reversed anti-social behavior in mice using perampanel. The study provides preliminary support for Thorase's role in behavioral disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 3, 2018

New therapy can help schizophrenia sufferers re-engage socially

A new therapy called Social Recovery Therapy has shown promising results in helping young people with schizophrenia to reconnect and engage with the world around them. The therapy involves identifying personally meaningful goals and setting up day-to-day achievable activities, significantly increasing social interaction.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2017

How individuals with schizophrenia view their experiences and confidence in judgments may influence treatment targets

Researchers at Penn Medicine found that individuals with schizophrenia's own perceptions of their experiences can influence treatment outcomes. Cognitive insight, measured by the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale, is a significant predictor of neurocognition and not vice versa.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateDec 8, 2017

Right-handed or left-handed?

A study published on Scientific Reports reveals that hand preference is already defined at the 18th week of gestation. Foetal kinematics analysis predicts manual dominance with an accuracy of 89-100% in boys and girls, which may lead to early recognition of pathologies like depression, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 2017
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.

Nutrition may play a key role in early psychosis treatment: New research

Research from Australia's NICM Health Research Institute finds large nutritional deficits in blood levels of critical nutrients among individuals with early psychosis. Vitamin B9 (folate) and D were found to be particularly low, associated with poorer mental health outcomes.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

Star-shaped brain cells orchestrate neural connections

New research from Duke University reveals that astrocytes play a crucial role in regulating the development and function of synapses in the brain. The study found that three proteins control the web-like structure of each astrocyte, which directly impacts the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neural connections.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2017

What effect has substance abuse on outcome of schizophrenia treated with antipsychotics?

Long-term administration of antipsychotic drugs can worsen schizophrenia outcomes if patients consume substances like nicotine and alcohol or drugs like cannabis and amphetamines. However, measures such as administering long-acting injectable antipsychotics and psychoeducation can improve adherence and reduce substance abuse.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Drug Abuse Reviews·DateNov 2, 2017
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.

People with and without mental health conditions receive preventive care at similar rates

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder received similar or higher rates of preventive health screenings compared to those without mental illnesses. The study examined over 800,000 patients in the Kaiser Permanente Northwest health system and foun...

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 19, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Shared genetics in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

A genetic variant associated with multiple psychiatric disorders is linked to changes in a brain network that may increase an individual's risk of developing bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The variant affects the expression of the SNAP25 protein, impacting information processing between brain regions involved in regulating emotions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 2, 2017

People with schizophrenia have threefold risk of dying

A large Ontario study found people with schizophrenia died 8 years earlier than the general population, with a 35% decrease in death rates. The high mortality risk is attributed to factors such as limited access to healthcare and unhealthy lifestyle habits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 18, 2017

New study shows people with schizophrenia are dying younger

A new Ontario study found that people with schizophrenia are dying younger due to poorer physical health care over their lifespan. The study showed that individuals with schizophrenia had higher rates of death from cardiovascular diseases and chronic medical conditions.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 18, 2017
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.

People with schizophrenia left out of longevity revolution

A recent study found a 37% increase in the gap between the average lifespan of people with schizophrenia and the general population. Longitudinal studies suggest that this widening trend is due to factors such as inadequate healthcare, unhealthy lifestyles, and biological aging.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateSep 15, 2017

Scientists list 50 terms you may be confusing

A new paper defines 50 term pairs in psychology, including envy/jealousy and disease/illness, to improve psychological literacy. The list helps distinguish between related concepts, such as punishment vs. negative reinforcement, antisocial vs. asocial behavior.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Education·DateSep 11, 2017

A new genetic marker for schizophrenia

Researchers at Osaka University discovered a rare genetic variant, RTN4R, that may play a fundamental role in schizophrenia. This finding supports the hypothesis that myelin-related genes are associated with the disease.

SourceOsaka University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateSep 11, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Study shows contrasting long-term cognitive effects of psychiatric drugs in schizophrenia

A long-term study on schizophrenia patients found that low cumulative exposure to benzodiazepine and antidepressant medications has no significant effect on cognition. However, high-dose use of antipsychotic drugs was associated with poorer cognitive functioning, while a break in treatment was linked to better outcomes.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalEuropean Psychiatry·DateSep 5, 2017

Study associates schizophrenia with defective processing of messenger RNA in cells

A study associates schizophrenia with defective processing of messenger RNA in cells, suggesting a link between the spliceosome complex and brain dysfunctions. The researchers found altered proteins in two brain regions, including those involved in calcium-mediated signaling and myelination.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Neuropsychiatry·DateSep 4, 2017
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.

Using DNA to predict schizophrenia and autism

Researchers discovered a single amino acid switch in the CX3CR1 receptor as a potential marker for predicting schizophrenia and autism. The variant affects microglia function and could lead to predictive diagnostics, offering new hope for asymptomatic patient screening.

SourceOsaka University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2017

Concussion detection aid moves closer to getting in game

The Blink Reflexometer device detects changes in blinking patterns to identify concussions and neurological disorders like Parkinson's, Huntington's, and schizophrenia. The technology aims to provide a portable, rugged, and fast aid for trainers to make objective calls about player safety.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateAug 17, 2017

UCI study uncovers possible roots of schizophrenia

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery, finding that an amino acid called methionine may play a crucial role in the development of schizophrenia. Excess methionine during pregnancy has been shown to alter fetal brain development, leading to changes in gene expression and potentially life-long consequences.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 15, 2017
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.

Pharmacy service could save NHS £517.6m, finds study

A study by the University of Manchester found that a pharmacy service, launched in 2011, improves patient medicine adherence and translates to increased health gain at reduced overall cost. The New Medicine Service has saved NHS England £517.6m in its first five years.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPharmacoEconomics·DateAug 7, 2017

Body ownership is not impaired in schizophrenia

A study by EPFL scientists found that schizophrenia patients do not have a disturbed sense of body ownership. The study used the Full-Body Illusion test and showed that patients performed similarly to healthy controls, indicating that their sense of body ownership is unaffected by the disorder.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateJul 26, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research uncovers a cause of schizophrenia

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that genetic defects in glial cells may lead to schizophrenia by impairing myelin production and neural network formation. The research uses mouse models with human glial cells to demonstrate the defective glial cells' role in brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell·DateJul 20, 2017

Genomic copy number variants contribute to cognitive impairment in the UK

A new study found that people carrying certain genetic alterations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders may experience impaired cognition, despite not developing a disorder. The research provides valuable insights into the effects of these genetic abnormalities on cognition in adults from the general population.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 28, 2017

New findings reverse hypothesis of GABA neurodevelopment in schizophrenia

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that chandelier cells, a type of inhibitory nerve cell, are unaltered in schizophrenia patients, challenging prior findings of GABA deficits. The researchers suspect a developmental origin for the abnormality, which could have implications for treating brain disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Effectiveness of antipsychotic treatments in patients with Schizophrenia

A nationwide study in Sweden found that specific antipsychotic agents and routes of administration impact the risk of rehospitalization and treatment failure among patients with schizophrenia. The research highlights the need for personalized treatment approaches to optimize patient outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 7, 2017
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.

Scientists find new genetic roots for intelligence

Researchers at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam identified 52 genes associated with intelligence, including 40 previously unknown discoveries. The study reveals a correlation between genetic influences on intelligence and educational attainment, as well as traits like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2017

New medication significantly decreases involuntary movement

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that valbenazine can significantly reduce tardive dyskinesia symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and mood disorder. The medication showed a 50% improvement rate compared to the placebo group.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Probiotics benefit in schizophrenia shaped by yeast infections

Researchers found that Candida yeast infections contribute to bowel difficulties in men with schizophrenia. Probiotics also decreased delusions and hallucinations in participants without a history of yeast infections. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and determine their effectiveness for women with schizophrenia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017