University of California, San Diego biologists have shown that the chemical language with which neurons communicate depends on the pattern of electrical activity in the developing nervous system. The findings suggest that modification of nerve activity could have potential as a treatment for a wide range of brain disorders.
Neurobiologists have discovered why the aging brain produces progressively fewer new nerve cells in its learning and memory center. The scientists said the finding, made in rodents, refutes current ideas on how long crucial “progenitor” stem cells persist in the aging brain.
With holiday celebrations to attend and family gatherings to prepare for, the winter season can be busy and joyful. But for many, heightened expectations and the stresses of holiday events can increase anxiety and cause depression.
The UCLA Department of Family Medicine, under the direction of Principal Investigator Michael A. Rodriguez, MD, MPH, is receiving a two-year, $300,000 grant from Finding Answers: Disparities Research for Change, a National Program Office of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) housed at the University of Chicago that evaluates interventions aimed at eliminating racial and ethnic health care disparities in local communities.
Married couples where breast cancer exists are in a risk situation when the cohesion level of the family is low, according to research carried out by the psychiatrist at the Family Diagnosis and Therapy Unit at the University Hospital of Navarra, Enrique Aub? Guedea.
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today approved the first generic version of Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion hydrochloride) Extended-Release Tablets, which are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The approval is an important step in the agency’s effort to increase the availability of lower-cost generic medications. In 2005, Wellbutrin XL was the 21st highest-selling brand-name drug in the United States, with sales totaling $1,326,323,000 as reported in the online magazine Drug Topics.
Scientists present findings from a 2005 field campaign during which they flew over Tropical Storm Gert to look at the storm inside and out to determine how Gert evolved. Presentation (poster A13A-0882) at the American Geophysical U nion meeting, at 4:40 p.m. EST, Dec. 11.
New mothers are at an increased risk for mental illness and disorders such as schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder in the 3 months following the birth of their first child, according to a study in the recent issue of JAMA.
Patients who initiate a general discussion about the need for antidepressant medication with their primary-care physician are more likely to be thoroughly evaluated for depression than those who make a brand-specific request or no request, according to a new study in the December issue of Medical Care.
About half of all children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder have difficulty making friends. A new clinical study is helping children with ADHD become better at making friends.