Could a quick-dissolving pill placed in the rectum prove to be an effective and safe “on-demand” way to prevent HIV infection among sexually active men and women? It might, new research indicates. The experimental form of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is designed to be placed directly into either the rectum or the vagina. In the new…  read on >  read on >

Even modest drinking can speed up the loss of brain cells and formation of the plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, research in mice shows. These plaques are an accumulation of toxic proteins. “These findings suggest alcohol might accelerate the pathological cascade of Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages,” said study co-author Shannon…  read on >  read on >

Combining breathing exercises with gradual aerobic activity may benefit teens who are recovering slowly from a concussion. New research found that while the two therapies each offer benefits, together they led to even greater improvement in thinking and memory skills, depression and mood. The findings are scheduled for presentation in Boston and online at the…  read on >  read on >

A new study links obesity with 21 Alzheimer’s disease-related genes. This may help explain why Alzheimer’s is often more frequent among adults who experienced obesity in midlife, according to researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. To study this, the investigators used data from more than 5,600 participants in the…  read on >  read on >

About 44% of U.S. middle and high schools have student-run clubs that shine a light on issues that touch the lives of LGBTQ+ students. And new research suggests that depression risk among LGBTQ+ students is considerably lower in those schools where such Gender-Sexuality Alliances (GSAs), similar to Gay-Straight Alliances, are present and relatively active. “Depression…  read on >  read on >

TUESDAY, Feb. 21, 2023 (American Heart Association News) — News that one of America’s best-known stroke survivors was being treated for depression highlights a common and serious connection between the two afflictions. Last May, Sen. John Fetterman made national headlines after his near-fatal stroke. On Thursday, his staff announced he had checked into a hospital…  read on >  read on >

People who are experiencing anxiety and depression months after a mild case of COVID-19 may have changes affecting the structure and function of their brains, Brazilian researchers report. “There is still much to learn about long COVID, which includes a wide range of health problems, including anxiety and depression, months after infection,” said Dr. Clarissa…  read on >  read on >

It’s a brutal reality that confronts many recovering stroke patients: After six months or so of rehab, any arm and hand movement not yet restored is unlikely to return. But new cutting-edge research aims to use electrical stimulation to jumpstart stroke-interrupted communication between the brain and the spinal cord, restoring lost motor control. The technique…  read on >  read on >