NIH Research Matters
June 2011 Archive
June 27, 2011
Mechanism of Fast-Acting Antidepressant Revealed
A new study in mice has identified the molecular players involved in the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine, a common anesthetic. The findings could lead to better, faster-acting antidepressant medications in the future.
Insights into Math Learning Difficulties
The innate ability to estimate quantities is impaired in children who have a math learning disability, according to a new report. Those who aren’t considered learning disabled but still do poorly seem to struggle for different reasons.
Key Step Identified in Legionnaires’ Infection
Researchers have uncovered a key step in how the bacterium responsible for Legionnaires’ disease takes control of the cells it infects. The finding may lead to new ways to treat Legionnaires’ and other related diseases.
June 20, 2011
Early Childhood Program Has Enduring Benefits
The longest study of its kind shows that an early education program for children from low-income families provides benefits that last well into adulthood.
Brain Pathway Links Nicotine and Weight Loss
Smokers often gain weight when they quit. A new study in mice may help explain why. The finding may eventually lead to more targeted ways to stop smoking and control weight.
Hormone Level Predicts Progressive Kidney Failure
A high level of a hormone is associated with an increased risk of kidney failure and death among patients with chronic kidney disease. The discovery could allow for earlier diagnosis and treatment of patients at risk.
June 13, 2011
Study Undermines XMRV Connection to Human Disease
The retrovirus previously tied to prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome is unlikely to be responsible for either, according to new research. The link to human disease was apparently due to contamination of samples.
Saliva Testing Catches CMV Infection in Newborns
A saliva sample from a newborn can be used to quickly and effectively detect cytomegalovirus infection, a major cause of hearing loss in children. Better screening might lead to earlier treatment for affected babies.
Autism Blurs Distinctions Between Brain Regions
A new analysis of gene expression in the brain suggests that autism blurs the molecular differences that normally distinguish different brain regions.
June 6, 2011
Steroid Treatments Equally Effective Against Sudden Deafness
Injecting steroids into the middle ear works just as well as taking them orally when it comes to restoring hearing for sudden deafness patients. The finding will help doctors choose the best treatment for patients.
Trial Restores Movement to Paralyzed Man's Legs
Specialized physical therapy and electrical stimulation to the spine have enabled a man with a spinal cord injury to stand and move paralyzed muscles, according to a new report.
Flu Pandemic Study Supports Social Distancing
Mandatory school closures and other social distancing measures reduced influenza transmission rates in Mexico during the 2009 pandemic. The finding suggests that similar measures could help fight future influenza pandemics.
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About NIH Research Matters
Harrison Wein, Ph.D., Editor
Vicki Contie, Assistant Editor
NIH Research Matters is a weekly update of NIH research highlights from the Office of Communications and Public Liaison, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health.
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