Research reveals that autistic children can learn and apply social stereotypes, including those based on race and sex, despite difficulties with theory of mind development. This finding suggests that different cognitive mechanisms may be at play for understanding social categories versus mental states.
Scientists at University College London discovered that autistic children can understand people's behavior based on stereotypes, such as gender and race. This ability can be used to aid their learning and socialization, and may even help them integrate better into society.
Researchers found that a simple video-based awareness program significantly improved hand washing behavior among families visiting sick children in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit. The study showed that the video initiative was more effective than a poster-based approach in reducing hospital-acquired infections.
Researchers found that embryos initially deemed abnormal can undergo chromosomal modifications, leading to a higher rate of mosaicism. This challenges the effectiveness of preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) for increasing pregnancy potential.
Researchers at Oregon State University have successfully manipulated the growth in height of trees using genetic modification, creating miniature trees that can range from a few inches to over 50 feet tall. The findings offer potential for new products in the ornamental and nursery industries, but regulatory hurdles must be overcome.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found little to no scientific evidence supporting the use of steroids or other therapies for treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The study suggests that systemic steroids may not be the gold standard of treatment due to severe limitations in existing studies.
Researchers found endosomes facilitate plant growth through brassinosteroid receptor trafficking, affecting shoot and root growth. This discovery expands understanding of endosome function in plants, shedding light on their evolutionary origins.
Researchers warn that global warming is forcing gannets to search further afield for food, leaving their chicks vulnerable to attack. The birds' breeding success is declining as they compensate by flying faster, but their speed limit has been reached.
Eran D. Metzger, a psychiatrist at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, has been named a Practice Change Fellow by The Atlantic Philanthropies to improve mental health care for elderly patients. The program aims to expand the number of health-care leaders who can promote high-quality care to older adults in various organizations.
A research team has discovered a fundamental adaptive mechanism linking an animal's locomotion to its sensory systems. The study found that the dimensions of the three semicircular canals in the inner ear are linked to the type of movement produced by an animal's limbs.
A new model predicts the danger of flu pandemics by analyzing population heterogeneity. The study highlights the importance of considering individual attributes such as social interaction and susceptibility to infection. Social distancing measures may be effective in limiting the spread of disease, according to the research.
The Arctic has seen its spring arrive significantly earlier than it did just a decade ago, with flowering dates advancing by up to 30 days in some species. This rapid change is considered one of the clearest signals of biological response to rising temperatures, and offers an early warning of global warming's effects.
A new study suggests that stimulant treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can increase the risk of future drug abuse, with age and treatment duration being key variables. The researchers found that brain chemistry changes associated with longer treatment periods may attenuate the propensity to abuse drugs.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center discovered that memory CD8 T cells can protect against viral diseases without migrating to the site of infection. These cells rapidly multiply and kill target cells inside the lymph node, decreasing viral spread to vital organs.
The study reveals a novel anti-apoptotic signaling pathway disrupted by PINK1 mutations, suggesting a potential target for therapeutic intervention in Parkinson's disease. Increasing evidence links single-copy mutations in PINK1 to the development of later-onset PD.
A phase 3 randomized trial found that extended exposure to etanercept improved measures of disease severity in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no increased risk of adverse events or infections.
A recent review examines the evidence supporting PSA testing for prostate cancer screening. Despite controversy over its effectiveness, many Canadian men are being tested due to widespread practice. The article also discusses finasteride's potential in reducing enlarged prostate risks and cancer risk.
A preliminary study suggests that administering a blood clot-dissolving medication within 24 hours of severe frostbite injury can significantly reduce the risk of amputation. The treatment, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), has been shown to improve blood flow and prevent cell death in affected limbs.
The study found that the death rate for men with diabetes declined by 43% between 1971 and 2000, while the death rate for women with diabetes did not change. The authors suggest that different approaches may be needed to improve health outcomes for women with diabetes.
Researchers at MGH-MIND discovered that an enzyme involved in Alzheimer's disease can alter neural signaling, leading to seizures. Elevated BACE activity may be responsible for seizures observed in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting potential treatments to alleviate their occurrence.
Scientists have developed a new method to deliver therapeutic molecules across the blood-brain barrier using a short protein from the rabies virus. This approach protects mice from infection caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, suggesting potential for treating various brain infections and diseases.
Researchers at University of Utah have developed a faster and less expensive technique for mutating vast, non-gene stretches of DNA. This new approach enables the evaluation of regulatory sequences that control gene expression, potentially leading to breakthroughs in human disease research.
Researchers compared Leishmaniasis-causing parasite genomes and identified a small number of genes that can be targeted for new treatments. The study found that only a few genes are important in determining disease severity, and some genes may play key roles in interacting with the human host.
In Denmark, non-invasive screening of pregnant women using ultrasound and blood analysis has reduced the number of children born with Down Syndrome by 50%. The new guidelines have also led to a significant decrease in invasive pre-natal diagnostic procedures, from 11% to around 6% of pregnancies.
A recent study of 583 children born after preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) found no significant increase in major malformations compared to those born after conventional IVF. The average birthweight and length of pregnancies were comparable to those born after IVF, providing reassurance about the safety of PGD.
Genetic analysis reveals Etruscan immigrants came from Anatolia, specifically southern Turkey. The study confirms Herodotus' theory and provides evidence for a genetic continuity between ancient and modern-day Tuscans.
Researchers have identified a gene, TGBF1, that contributes to otosclerosis, the single most common cause of hearing loss among white adults. The study found that a specific variant of this gene is protective against the disease.
A study of postmenopausal women has found that infection with four known gum-disease-causing bacteria is associated with more severe oral bone loss. The two most prevalent pathogens were P. gingivalis and T. forsythensis, found in 15.1% and 37.9% of the participants.
A phase 2 trial found that denosumab reduced the progression of bone erosion in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The treatment group experienced significant reductions in erosion scores, even as early as six months, compared to the control group.
Recent studies have shed light on the origins and purpose of pride, a complex emotion linked to achievement-oriented ideas like accomplishment and confidence. People who feel authentic pride tend to score high on extraversion and genuine self-esteem.
Two studies identify smoking, low formal education, and glucose tolerance as independent predictors of rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking is associated with a higher risk, while better glucose tolerance is linked to a lower risk, suggesting alternative mechanisms may be at play.
Researchers found that COPD patients exhibit greater arterial stiffness, especially those with osteoporosis. This early sign of aging may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in these patients.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America has released a new blueprint to prevent tens of thousands of deaths and illnesses caused by vaccine-preventable diseases. The blueprint aims to improve vaccination rates among adults and adolescents, with a focus on increasing access to vaccines for underserved populations.
Researchers found bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a critical role in early stages of tumor progression. Eliminating EPCs stops cancer growth by preventing blood vessel formation.
A long-term study validates Georgia's vehicle emissions inspection program, reducing emissions by half since the late 1970s. Newer fuels and cleaner vehicle models have also contributed to the decline in emissions, making the inspections program a cost-effective solution.
Research at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine suggests that chemotherapy must target a subset of cancer stem cells to be effective in treating lung cancers. Cancer stem cells, similar to normal stem cells, can resist multiple drug resistance transporters, making them resistant to conventional therapies.
A study published at EULAR 2007 found that longer-term breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in mothers. The study, which involved 136 women with RA and 544 controls, suggested that naturally-induced hormones during breastfeeding may offer protective benefits against the disease.
A content analysis of newspaper stories on organ and tissue donation found 57% positive and 14% negative articles. The most frequently referenced topics were kidneys, post-transplantation health, and the critical shortage of organs.
The UK's escalating waste problem can be tackled by changing buying habits and attitudes to consumption. Social marketing techniques can encourage people to reduce their consumption and lower waste output.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has renewed its investment in young clinical cancer investigators, providing $2.25 million to support the development of their cancer research programs. Five new awardees will receive funding to investigate various types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and esophageal cancer.
Researchers found that Phaeocystis globosa can change its colony formation based on the presence of nearby grazers, enhancing or suppressing colonies to avoid being eaten. This complex defensive behavior has implications for global climate change, as Phaeocystis blooms play a key role in the carbon cycle.
A new survey of 2,082 nurses found that more than a quarter suffered from insomnia, with significant effects on medication dispensing errors, charting deviations, and falling asleep at work. Despite the impact, only 30% sought professional care to address their insomnia.
Studies demonstrated that ROZEREM did not impair middle-of-the-night balance, mobility or memory performance in patients with chronic insomnia. The medication's unique mechanism of action targets the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle, and showed no evidence of abuse potential.
Research suggests that consuming three units of alcohol per week may reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, with higher doses providing greater protection. Moderate alcohol consumption also appears to counteract the negative effects of smoking and genetic predisposition.
Researchers used genome sequencing to detect rare viral mutations and found that low-frequency resistant HIV strains can lead to premature therapy failure. The study aimed to determine if patients who fail treatment early were initially infected with drug-resistant strains.
A European multinational study showed that tocilizumab improved symptoms in 43.9% and 22% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, with a 70% improvement observed in over one-fifth, according to the first phase III trial results.
Researchers found that elevated pepsin levels, a marker for gastric aspiration, are associated with acute rejection of lung transplants. Prolonged exposure to stomach fluids may contribute to lung injury and increase the risk of rejection.
Kurt C. Stange has been named an American Cancer Society Clinical Research Professor, a prestigious award recognizing his innovative research on cancer prevention and treatment. The five-year grant will support work to identify emerging models of personalized, integrated care.
Endurance exercise experts recommend limiting fluid intake during prolonged activities to prevent exercise-induced hyponatremia (EAH), a potentially lethal water intoxication. Excess drinking can lead to diluted sodium levels in the blood, posing risk to athletes engaging in 4-hour or longer endurance events.
Researchers developed artificial blood vessels from muscle-derived stem cells and a biodegradable polymer, exhibiting extensive remodeling and blockage-free performance in rat models. The findings have significant implications for treating heart and kidney disorders with 'off-the-shelf' vascular grafts.
Johns Hopkins scientists discovered blood-dwelling proteins CCSA-3 and CCSA-4 that accurately identify colon cancer and precancerous polyps. The researchers were 100% accurate in identifying existing cancers and correctly identified individuals with advanced precancerous polyps, suggesting a potential less invasive screening test.
A retrospective study identified rare drug-resistant HIV variants in blood samples from an earlier clinical trial using ultra-deep sequencing. The findings suggest that even low-level mutations can lead to early treatment failure, highlighting the need for improved resistance testing methods.
The University of Delaware has received a $11 million grant from the NIH to conduct translational research on osteoarthritis, focusing on tissue mechanics and biomechanics. A unique mentoring program will also support women biomedical researchers at UD.
Patients with ankylosing spondylitis who received REMICADE showed significant improvement in spinal mobility and reduced spinal inflammation over two years. This study found that REMICADE-treated patients experienced sustained reductions in spinal inflammation, as detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), compared to placebo group.
Two studies show that defects in the bone marrow microenvironment can lead to pre-cancerous conditions in mice, contradicting previous assumptions about the root cause of myeloproliferative syndromes. The findings highlight the importance of environmental considerations for stem cell therapies.
A novel mutation in regulatory protein tropomyosin is associated with muscle weakness and distal limb deformities. The mutation modulates contractile speed and force-generation capacity by affecting myosin-actin kinetics.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in controlling the physical properties of materials at a small scale, paving the way for more efficient hydrogen fuel cells. By adding bismuth to lead atoms, Professor Hanno Weitering fine-tuned the stability and superconductivity of the resulting quantum alloy.
A new book from a University of Missouri-Columbia education professor offers technology-based social studies lesson plans for grades kindergarten to 12, preparing students for the digital age. The book covers various tools and simulations, including podcasting, digital movies, and Google Earth, to enhance learning experiences.
Researchers found that TRAIL limits inflammation and brain cell death in bacterial meningitis by regulating the host immune response. In contrast, mice lacking TRAIL exhibited increased inflammation and brain cell death, which was reversed by administering recombinant TRAIL.
A woman's symptoms of colitis emerged 27 years after she left the country where she was infected with a parasitic worm. Analysis revealed larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis caused her digestive issues, highlighting the importance of considering this rare disease in patients with cellular immune defects.