A low-cost electronic tablet, called I-slate, has been proven to be an effective learning tool for Indian children. The device is designed to be solar-powered and cost less than $50, providing immediate feedback on correct and incorrect answers to math problems.
Research published in the Journal of Medical Genetics found that faulty intellectual disability genes are largely paternal in origin and more common in children born to older fathers. The study analyzed rare copy number variations (CNVs) in over 3,500 people with intellectual disabilities.
A study found that pregnant women with better maternal diet quality had a lower risk of birth defects, including neural tube defects and orofacial clefts. The research used data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study to examine whether better maternal diet quality was associated with reduced risk for selected birth defects.
Researchers have developed a cloaking device that utilizes the 'mirage effect' to make objects invisible. The device uses sheets of carbon nanotubes, which can be heated to create a temperature gradient that bends light rays away from the object, making it appear invisible.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that college students who display references to intoxication or problem drinking on their Facebook profiles are more likely to report alcohol-related injuries. The study suggests using social media monitoring as a tool for identifying at-risk students, potentiall...
The ePetri system revolutionizes cell culture experiments with real-time imaging capabilities, reducing human labor time and improving accuracy. It simplifies medical diagnostic tests, drug screening, and basic research, offering a compact, lightweight microscope alternative.
A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that familiarity with snack foods affects children's expectations of fullness, influencing portion sizes. Children who are infrequent consumers rely on food appearance, whereas familiar eaters predict fullness based on product characteristics.
Cognitive therapy has been shown to improve the lives of severely impaired schizophrenic patients, reducing symptoms and promoting recovery. By helping patients set concrete goals and overcome defeatist beliefs, treatment encourages engagement in activity and motivation, leading to better functional outcomes and reduced hallucinations.
A study of nearly 3800 couples found that hormonal contraception increases a woman's chances of becoming infected with HIV-1. Women using injectable methods were twice as likely to transmit the virus to their male partner, emphasizing the need for alternative methods.
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that watching a person from a different race perform actions reduces implicit prejudice. By mimicking these movements, individuals can activate brain mechanisms contributing to empathy and lower their levels of prejudice.
Scientists at CSHL have discovered that a 27-gene cluster deletion on chromosome 16 causes autism-like features. Mouse models revealed that inheriting fewer copies of these genes leads to behaviors and brain alterations characteristic of autism.
A study found that smokers are twice as likely to have strokes and almost a decade younger when they do. Quitting smoking reduces stroke risks significantly within 18 months.
A foodborne bacterium invades the body by binding to E-cadherin on goblet cells, which produce slippery mucus. The reorganization required to expel the mucus exposes E-cadherin, allowing Listeria to cause systemic infection.
A new study by sociologists at Rice University and Stanford University explores how neighborhood poverty influences maternal fear of children's outdoor play. Mothers' household economic status, education, employment, and physical/mental health all contribute to their fears.
Researchers found that college football players who display physical affection toward their teammates are happier and more likely to have a mental edge. In contrast, those who conform to traditional male stereotypes tend to have lower self-esteem. The studies suggest that emotional expression may be beneficial for athletes in terms of ...
A review of eight studies found an association between chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and multiple sclerosis, but poor study quality and inconsistencies hinder definitive conclusions. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship.
A new study found that children with thinner parents are three times more likely to be thin, with a strong association between parental and child body size. Children of thinner parents were more likely to have the 'skinny' genes, increasing their chances of being naturally thinner.
A meta-analysis found a strong association between CCSVI and multiple sclerosis, but the low quality of included studies prevents a definitive conclusion. The variation in study results suggests that factors such as sample size, ultrasound techniques, and training of operators may contribute to the heterogeneity.
A study reveals a vast world of unseen viral diversity in raw sewage, home to thousands of novel and undiscovered viruses. The research detected genetic signatures from 234 known viruses, but the majority belong to unknown viruses that may play roles in human health and environmental processes.
Researchers have found a rise in male breast cancer cases over the past two decades, despite low awareness. The study highlights the need for better information, treatment, and emotional support for men affected by the disease.
A study reconstructing 700 years of human-environment interactions in Hawaiian coral reefs found that historical changes in human societies led to degradation or recovery. While some reefs declined due to overexploitation and land-based pollution, others recovered through cultural protection and conservation efforts.
Scientists have long hypothesized that the Pacific Ocean was a significant source of carbon dioxide during glacial times. However, a new study suggests that this may not be the case, forcing researchers to reassess their ideas about the fundamental mechanisms that regulate atmospheric carbon dioxide over long time scales.
A new study found that patients' worry about disease was modestly elevated one week after genetic testing, but returned to normal levels a year later. Genetic tests also caused people to worry more about unfamiliar diseases like Graves' disease over common ones like diabetes.
Researchers at the University of Leeds found that people with fair skin are more likely to have sub-optimal vitamin D levels. The study suggests that these individuals may need vitamin D supplements to maintain optimal health levels, particularly in areas with limited sunlight.
A study by the American Society for Radiation Oncology found that nearly three-quarters of cancer patients have insufficient vitamin D levels, with those deficient experiencing more advanced cancer. Vitamin D supplementation showed promise in improving serum levels and potentially impacting treatment outcomes.
A new study reveals that nursing homes often prioritize treating residents with private insurance over those with Medicaid, resulting in higher hospitalization rates and unnecessary care. Medicaid residents are 27% more likely to be hospitalized than private-pay residents, highlighting the financial incentives driving these decisions.
A community-based prevention system led to significant decreases in teen alcohol use, smoking, and delinquency. After external support ended, these reductions persisted, indicating a lasting impact.
Researchers discovered that a previously unrecognized population of immune cells in the lungs orchestrate the body's repair response following flu infection. The activation of these cells is central to tissue repair at lung surfaces and could promote wound healing following other respiratory infections.
A new study by András Tilcsik found that employers are 40% less likely to grant an interview to openly gay men compared to their heterosexual counterparts. The study, which analyzed over 1,700 job openings, revealed significant barriers in the hiring process for gay applicants.
A national study found that Medicare patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities are at high risk of needing long-term care. The study suggests that programs aimed at helping older patients recover at home could improve their health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Theoretical physicists have developed a new concept to create exotic topological states using dissipation, which can lead to immune quantum computers. They successfully linked concepts of quantum optics and condensed matter physics, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach.
A combination of P16 immunohistochemistry and DNA qPCR has been found to accurately determine oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, a form of head and neck cancer derived from HPV16. This test outperforms existing methods with high sensitivity and specificity, making it a valuable tool for clinicians.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University aim to develop new treatments using human beta defensins triggered by Fusobacterium nucleatum-associated Beta-Defensin Inducer (FAD-I). FAD-I induces HBD peptides to block bacteria from entering the body, potentially preventing health conditions such as gum disease and tooth loss.
Researchers identified a novel mechanism by which Burkholderia pseudomallei develops resistance to ceftazidime, making it difficult to detect. The study found that genetic mutations lead to the production of a protein important for bacterial cell division, rendering the drug ineffective.
A study highlights the importance of screening for depression and vision loss in people who have experienced mild strokes. The study found that nearly a quarter of participants were clinically depressed, while many faced challenges returning to work or driving after their stroke.
A U-M study has identified the p38-gamma molecule as a key regulator of aggressive breast cancer cell movement. By understanding how this molecule influences cell motion, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies that can improve treatment outcomes.
A recent study found that receiving care in a hallway bed was the strongest predictor of healthcare providers not washing their hands. The researchers observed providers wearing gloves instead of washing their hands, and workers who transport patients between departments were less likely to wash their hands due to inadequate training.
Gout patients who wear poor footwear experience higher foot-related pain, impairment and disability due to lack of comfort, fit, support and adequate stability. Comfort, fit, support and cost are key factors influencing footwear choice among gout patients.
Researchers found that a DNA vaccine expressing a key H5N1 protein enhanced the immune response to an H5N1 avian influenza vaccine. The prime-boost regimen produced high levels of protective antibodies and broadly neutralizing antibodies against the HA stem, a region relatively constant across many strains of influenza viruses.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found a strong connection between premature birth and an increased risk of developing epilepsy later in life. Adults born prematurely were five times more likely to be hospitalized for epilepsy compared to those born full-term.
A team of researchers identified a way to speed up the growth of damaged nerves, restoring muscle function in injured mice. The study suggests that increasing nerve growth rates may enhance functional recovery in patients with peripheral nerve damage.
A new program aims to increase physical activity among middle school girls, particularly those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The Girls on the Move project will expand its successful pilot program to more schools, targeting girls' physical health and well-being.
A study found that almost 60% of people who have a stroke experience one or more falls afterwards, with most occurring in their own homes. To address this risk, experts recommend proactive measures such as assessments to create fall-proof homes and post-stroke rehabilitation to test balance and learn exercises to prevent falls.
A new Stanford University study found that the overall quality of a pregnant woman's diet is linked to a lower risk of two types of serious birth defects. Women who ate better before and during pregnancy had fewer infants with brain and spinal cord malformations or orofacial clefts, such as cleft lip and palate.
Research suggests that referring patients with mental health problems to talking therapies reduces their use of healthcare services and sick leave. Patients who received therapy had fewer hospital admissions, outpatient appointments, and emergency care services, but were prescribed more antidepressants.
A study found that most cancer care physicians initiate contact with bereaved family members and caregivers after a patient's death. However, over two-thirds of physicians reported inadequate training in this area during their residency or fellowship. The most common forms of follow-up were sending condolence letters and making telepho...
Scientists at Sanford-Burnham and Salk Institute developed a method to combine peptides and nanoparticles to eliminate glioblastoma in previously untreatable mouse models. The nanosystem proved effective in treating two different mouse models, curing most tumors and significantly delaying tumor development.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified EP4 as a potential new treatment target for stroke. A selective EP4 agonist administered after stroke reduced brain damage and long-term behavioral deficits in mice, suggesting its therapeutic potential.
LA BioMed has broken ground on a new research center for chronic diseases, consolidating collaborative efforts of investigator groups and serving as the new home for several clinical programs. The $9.7 million grant from NIH will support rapid deployment of shovel-ready projects and create jobs in the local economy.
UCLA neuro-physicists discovered an optimal brain 'rhythm' for changing synaptic strength, contrary to previous assumptions. The findings suggest that stimulating synapses at naturally occurring frequencies, not high frequencies, increases synaptic strength and may lead to new therapies for learning disabilities.
The American Cancer Society reports a decline in breast cancer death rates among women in affluent areas, shifting the burden to poor women who have lower screening rates. The study highlights disparities in access to prevention and treatment services.
A study by the American Society for Radiation Oncology found that cancer patients in their 60s were more likely to use web-based technology to answer quality of life survey questions. The use of this technology increased survey completion rates from 52% to 90% six months after treatment.
A University of Washington-led study found that using hormonal contraception increases an HIV-uninfected woman's chances of becoming infected by double. Women with HIV who use hormonal contraception are also twice as likely to transmit the virus to their male partners.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a transcriptional biomarker that may assist in the monitoring of Huntington's disease activity and the evaluation of new medications. The biomarker, H2AFY, is overexpressed in the blood of individuals with Huntington's disease.
Scientists at Boston Children's Hospital discover that motor nerve fibers can regrow but not communicate with muscle fibers in time. A limited time window exists for nerve regeneration and functional reactivation, highlighting the need for prompt treatment.
A Stanford study on cox-2 inhibitors may lead to new stroke treatments by increasing blood flow and enhancing recovery. The research also sheds light on why some drugs failed to live up to their promise, revealing that blocking a specific receptor can be beneficial.
Researchers argue that context, including conceptual information and cultural background, significantly influences facial emotional perception. Studies show that people can accurately perceive emotions only when context is provided, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on facial expressions.
Researchers found that brand names in online search engine advertising campaigns attract more attention and encourage more sales. A study by Penn State researchers discovered that branded keyword phrases combined with branded advertisements generated the highest average sales, 15 times higher than generic ads.
Researchers from USDA's Animal Disease Research Unit have identified the cayenne tick as a vector of equine piroplasmosis in a 2009 Texas outbreak. The discovery highlights the potential for the disease to spread internationally, prompting efforts to prevent its spread.
Despite maintaining a forest's physical appearance, its ecological, economic and cultural values can still be lost due to changes in structure and biodiversity. Researchers warn that traditional forestry practices, such as clear-cutting, can lead to the disappearance of critical forest structures and stages.
New study reveals that helium ion microscopy can image both surface and internal structures in whole cells at nanometer resolutions without the need for metallic coatings or significant loss of resolution.
A DNA vaccine regimen primed with H5N1 influenza followed by a booster dose of traditional influenza vaccine showed improved immune response and protected levels of antibodies, targeting the virus's stem region. This strategy could help prepare for future pandemics by reducing traditional vaccine manufacturing capacity.
A new study using radiocarbon dating found that the Northeast Pacific was not an important reservoir of carbon during glacial times, contradicting previous assumptions. The researchers suggest that other potential sources of CO2 during glacial periods need to be explored.
The Fisher-Price iXL Learning System, a smart device for children ages 3 to 7, received the 10th User-Centered Product Design Award for its outstanding user-centered design. The award recognizes innovative approaches to human factors/ergonomics and industrial design.
A new polymeric material has been developed that can disassemble in response to low-level near infrared light, making it suitable for non-invasive medical procedures. This breakthrough could allow previously inaccessible target sites to be reached for diagnosis and treatment.
A team of researchers has identified a way to accelerate the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves in mice, enabling full muscle function recovery. Clinical data suggests that strategies increasing nerve growth rate may enhance functional recovery in patients after peripheral nerve damage.
Researchers discovered two previously overlooked stages of carbon nanotube growth, including a disorderly tangle of tube growth that yields to orderly rows. The discovery sheds light on the controlled growth phases and their purposes in producing aligned carbon nanotubes for various materials and biomedical research.
Researchers have resolved a long-standing debate over water molecules at the air-water interface, finding strong hydrogen bonding between water pairs at the outermost surface. The study uses theoretical and experimental techniques to pinpoint the origin of water's unique surface properties.
A study by Fox Chase Cancer Center found that sentinel lymph node biopsy can predict cancer recurrence and guide treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma patients. The procedure led to lower risk of cancer recurrence and improved survival rates in two-year follow-up.
A groundbreaking study by Michigan State University researchers found that people who believe they can learn from their mistakes exhibit distinct brain activity compared to those who do not. This difference may be used to tailor training programs to individuals' learning styles and abilities.
Researchers have developed a virtual fly-through 3D imaging technique that accurately detects regional lymph node metastases in non-small cell lung cancer patients. The method achieved an 81% diagnostic accuracy rate, making it a promising tool for non-invasive diagnosis.
International scientists have decoded the genetic makeup of two heat-loving fungi that can degrade biomass at high temperatures, accelerating the breakdown of fibrous plant materials. The findings may lead to faster and greener development of biomass-based fuels, chemicals and other industrial materials.
Researchers highlight the importance of clinicians recognizing signs of bioterrorism threats. Behavioral-based weight loss treatments have been shown to be safe and effective, yielding clinically meaningful results. Additionally, proper selection and programming can make MRI scans safe for cardiac device patients.
Researchers developed a tracking system to monitor worm behavior and brain activity, revealing that certain neurons remain active as the worm moves. The study provides a new window for exploring links between brain and behavior, genetic mutations, and mental illness in humans.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that $6.7 billion was spent on unnecessary tests or medications, with brand-name statins accounting for 86% of the cost. Excess spending included blood work, bone density scans, and antibiotic prescriptions.
Researchers developed an internet-based multimedia informed consent resource to make it easier for cancer patients to understand and feel comfortable enrolling in clinical trials. The tool, accessed via the Internet, contains a video version of the traditional informed consent process and a PDF of the written materials, allowing patien...
Recent research by Peter Glick and Susan T. Fiske found that benevolent sexism motivates chivalrous acts but reinforces assumptions about men's competence over women's. Studies have shown that women who exhibit traditionally feminine traits receive benevolently sexist treatment, while those who assert themselves are met with hostility.
Researchers found that children exposed to general anesthesia and surgery before their second birthday were approximately three times as likely to develop speech and language problems compared to those who never underwent procedures. The study, published in Pediatrics, suggests that anesthesia exposure may affect brain development and ...
A recent study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found a link between shift work and increased cortisol levels. This association was discovered in individuals working shifts at a young age and may contribute to cardiovascular risk.
A protocol developed by Johns Hopkins cardiologists has enabled patients with implanted cardiac devices to safely undergo MRI scans. With appropriate precautions and careful patient monitoring, the risk of device malfunction is very low.
Viruses, such as adenovirus, exploit host cell mechanisms to smuggle their DNA into the nucleus for reproduction. The viral DNA is transported into the nucleus using the kinesin motor protein and a gatekeeper molecule, allowing it to reproduce easily.
A team of researchers transformed everyday iPhones into medical-quality imaging and chemical detection devices, enabling doctors to diagnose blood diseases in developing nations. The modified phones can perform detailed microscopy and spectroscopy, transmitting real-time data for further analysis and diagnosis.
The University of Pennsylvania has received a $12.5 million grant from the NIH to accelerate medical research into new therapies for inherited forms of blindness and lung cancer. Researchers aim to use gene therapy and microscopic imaging tools to develop innovative treatments, potentially improving millions of lives.
A Tel Aviv University researcher successfully implanted a robotic cerebellum into a rodent's skull, restoring its movement capacity. The 'robo-cerebellum' enables communication between the brain and body by receiving and transmitting sensory information from the brain stem.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered how cell-penetrating peptides, such as the HIV TAT peptide, interact with cells to facilitate the transfer of molecular cargoes. The study reveals that these peptides can act like a Swiss Army Knife, interacting strongly with membranes and cytoskeletons to produce multiple pathways of translocation.
The IGB and University of Illinois have received a $3.2 million NSF grant to train up to 30 graduate students in vertically integrated training with genomics. Students will learn to integrate genomic tools with traditional taxonomic approaches to study grand challenges in biology.
A randomized phase III trial found that higher doses of radiation therapy do not improve overall survival for stage III non-small cell lung cancer patients. The standard dose of radiation therapy (60 Gy) was shown to be sufficient and effective in treating the disease.
The study reveals regional and temporal variations in organ donation across the UK, with Wales consistently outperforming its neighbors. England and Scotland have lower organ donation rates, while Northern Ireland surprises with high lung donation rates.
A study of over 1,100 healthy Indiana school children found that being overweight or obese nearly triples the risk of developing high blood pressure. Leptin, a protein hormone involved in body weight regulation, is also positively associated with increased blood pressure in these children.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital have identified a new mechanism that may protect against organ injury and death from anemia. This discovery could lead to new treatments and approaches for patients with anemia.
In a study analyzing Utah homicide data from 2002-2007, child abuse homicide offenders were convicted at an 88.2% rate, comparable to the 83% conviction rate for adult offenders. The authors found no significant differences in felony conviction or sentencing severity between child and adult abuse cases.
Perinatal exposure to BPA may alter long-term hormone response and increase predisposition to breast cancer. Researchers found that BPA-exposed female mice had an increased response to progesterone and a higher cell number in their milk ducts.
A study found that residential washing machines often can't kill dangerous hospital-acquired bacteria at lower water temperatures. Washing with hot water and ironing afterwards can eliminate MRSA and Acinetobacter from uniforms.
A study published in Pain found that observers estimate lower pain intensity and are perceptually less sensitive to patients they don't like. Researchers used video fragments of patients experiencing shoulder pain and asked participants to rate pain severity and likability.
Neuroscientists at the University of Leicester discovered a protein called lipocalin-2 that helps regulate dendritic spine formation and maturation, reducing future anxiety associated with stressful events. The study found that mice without this protein were more anxious and had stronger memories of stressful events.
The TB bacterium has a unique molecule on its outer surface that blocks the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a key protein in the body's immune response. This allows the bacterium to remain infectious and evade the host's defense.