A new study suggests that babies as young as 6 months old exhibit a primitive number sense, which can predict their future mathematical abilities. The research found that infants with stronger innate number sense skills performed better on standardized math tests, even before learning to count or use Arabic numerals.
Researchers at CU-Boulder have developed a method for 4D printing, creating composite materials that can change shape in response to temperature or other stimuli. The technology has potential applications in manufacturing, biomedical devices, and more.
A meta-analysis of 16 high-quality studies found that coffee consumption reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by about 40%, with 3 cups per day showing a 50% reduction. Chronic infections with hepatitis B and C viruses are the main causes of liver cancer.
A small group of homeless people are extremely high users of ERs, with some individuals visiting the hospital over 8 times a year. These frequent users often have multiple complex healthcare needs and require more than just emergency care.
Tropical Storm Lorenzo formed in the Atlantic Ocean on Oct. 21, strengthening into a tropical storm just six hours later. NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of the depression before it became a storm, while NOAA's GOES satellite showed its progression and expected weakening trend.
A six-year study of 2,400 children found emotional and behavioral symptoms linked to poor housing quality and stress on parents. The report highlights the importance of housing quality over affordability in improving children's growth and development.
Researchers used Bio-Rad's Droplet Digital PCR to obtain promising results in new copy number variation studies, showcasing its precision, reproducibility, and sensitivity. The technology has already resulted in nearly 50 peer-reviewed publications.
Scientists have created an implantable hydrogel that can deliver a light signal to specific tissues deep within the body, enabling photomedicine to treat brain disorders. The system uses genetically engineered cells that respond to light, and has shown promising results in mice with diabetes.
A Baylor University study found that people with higher levels of religious certainty and those affiliated with high-tension congregations tend to give more. The research suggests that social exchange theory can explain why voluntary giving is a dominant aspect of America's philanthropy.
Two new species of the endangered ancient genus Gyronotus have been described from southern Africa, revealing unusual distribution patterns among these vulnerable beetles. The discovery highlights the importance of conserving biodiversity in grasslands and savannas, which are currently under threat due to massive environmental changes.
UCSB researchers demonstrate seamless designing of an atomically thin circuit with transistors and interconnects etched on a monolayer of graphene. The proposed all-graphene circuits have achieved higher noise margins and lower static power consumption compared to current CMOS technology.
A UCI-led study found high levels of carcinogens and other gases downwind of major refineries and chemical manufacturers in Alberta, Canada. The researchers detected elevated rates of cancers linked to these chemicals in nearby communities.
A recent study found that current national screening guidelines for colon cancer may miss up to 10 percent of cases in first-degree relatives. The research examined nearly 127,000 individuals who underwent colonoscopy in Utah between 1995 and 2009.
A new functional biomarker has been identified to predict responsiveness to BRAF-targeted drugs in patients with BRAF-mutant melanomas. Decreased S6 phosphorylation after treatment correlates with treatment response and improves progression-free survival.
A new diagnostic platform can detect BRAF V600 mutations in cancer tissue samples in about 90 minutes, faster and more accurate than the standard method. This could help accelerate diagnosis and treatment for patients with melanoma and other cancers.
The V-SmartTM therapeutic delivered tenofovir at levels considerably above therapeutic concentrations, overcoming the challenge of delivering HIV drugs through the BBB. The successful outcome confirms the strong potential of the delivery system to treat neuro-HIV and improve lives of AIDS patients.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that flu shots reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke by 36-55% among patients with a history of heart disease. The vaccine's protective effects were greater in those who received a more potent vaccine.
Typhoon Francisco is a large storm with a tightly wound center and small eye, approaching Japan with maximum sustained winds near 75 knots. The storm is expected to turn northeast in the next day or two and slowly weaken after passing southern Japan.
The McGill/MUHC research team developed an innovative oral self-test screening strategy and interactive website/app called HIVSmart to address the stigma associated with HIV testing. The award-winning strategy aims to improve access to care by allowing individuals to be tested in the privacy of their own homes.
A new online program developed by Thomas Jefferson University researchers has shown that more patients choose active surveillance over therapy when presented with pros and cons of treatment options. The program helps patients clarify their treatment preferences and discuss options with the clinical team.
A meta-analysis found that receiving an influenza vaccination was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. The greatest treatment effect was seen among patients with recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS), such as heart attack or unstable angina.
Researchers have developed a new method for exerting control over the arrangement of polymer molecules in plastic solar cells, enabling them to produce more electrical current. This breakthrough could lead to cheaper and more efficient solar panels, making renewable energy more accessible.
Researchers develop novel supercapacitor design using porous silicon and graphene coating, enabling over two orders of magnitude improvement in energy density. The device has the potential to power consumer electronics and renewable energy systems.
The EORTC/GIMEMA 06012 trial found sequential combination of gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) and standard chemotherapy has no benefit for older patients with acute myeloid leukemia. GO is too toxic for patients over 70 years old, whereas younger patients may potentially benefit from such treatment.
Researchers identify Chinese strain as origin of emerging US swine virus with high mortality rates, emphasizing the need for strict biosecurity and sanitation procedures on farms. The study found that the US strains share 99.5% of their genetic code with their Chinese counterpart, indicating a possible evolutionary origin from bats.
A recent study found that the hippocampus helps individuals resist temptation by simulating future outcomes. Individuals with hippocampus damage, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia, struggle to imagine long-term rewards, leading to impulsive decisions.
A recent study using gravitational wave data from the Parkes radio telescope has challenged existing theories on supermassive black hole growth. The researchers tested four models of black-hole growth against observational data, effectively ruling out one model and pushing others to re-evaluate their predictions.
A study by researchers from the Mount Sinai Hospital found that nearly 80% of women who contacted a patient assistance program had their needs met, compared to just 35% of those who did not. Most patients utilized programs for information about adjuvant therapies, psychosocial support, and overcoming practical/financial obstacles.
Scientists have successfully silenced extra chromosome 21 in laboratory cultures of patient-derived stem cells using a gene-silencing strategy. This approach reveals genome-wide changes and offers hope for identifying cellular pathways deregulated in Down syndrome, paving the way for potential therapeutics.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a novel mechanism by which fatty acids enter cells, bypassing traditional protein-mediated transport. This discovery has significant implications for the development of new drugs targeting fatty acid metabolism in diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
The EU has launched a project called WE-CARE, which aims to create a strategic plan for reducing healthcare costs in Europe. The project will be coordinated by the University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-centred Care and involves several European research institutes, businesses, and non-profit organizations.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Liverpool found that incorporating uncertainties into infectious disease models can significantly improve their effectiveness. The study analyzed previous outbreaks in the UK and found that many models provided only cursory reference to uncertainties, yet still informed policy decisions.
Researchers found that TB-infected badgers were less well-connected within their own groups but formed important links for the spread of infection between groups. The study suggests that this unusual social arrangement may stabilize the spread of TB across the population.
Research at Tel Aviv University suggests that homosexual behavior in insects and spiders is often a case of mistaken identity. In most cases, males mistake other males for females due to lack of time and energy to inspect their mates' gender. This behavior lacks potential benefits like procreation and can be costly.
White-collar criminals report fewer problems with cell mates, feelings of safety, and difficulties in prison compared to other populations. The study found that they were more likely to make friends in prison and had lower rates of safety concerns.
A growing body of evidence suggests a causal link between traffic-related air pollution and the development of asthma in children and adults. The authors highlight four strategies to mitigate its effects, including reducing vehicle emissions and modifying current infrastructure.
A new consensus report highlights massive underdiagnosis and undertreatment of hereditary high blood cholesterol in virtually all countries, with the exception of Netherlands and Norway. Easy to diagnose through a blood test and family history, the condition can be treated with statins and a low-cholesterol diet.
A global consensus has been reached on contact lens discomfort (CLD), with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) workshop report outlining key factors contributing to its generation. The findings suggest that CLD affects up to half of all contact lens wearers and highlight the need for innovative research in this field.
A NASA sounding rocket launch will support calibration of the EUV Variability Experiment (EVE) aboard the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) satellite. The EVE instrument measures total extreme ultraviolet irradiance, and this under-flight calibration is crucial for validating long-term variations in solar radiation.
Researchers at NUS found that activating Rho protein suppresses liver malignancies, providing evidence for signalling crosstalk between proteins in regulating liver overgrowth and cancer. The study paves the way for developing targeted therapeutics for liver cancer.
Researchers found that local TV health news stories are typically under 30 seconds long, which can lead to a lack of understanding about complex health topics. The study also revealed that gain-framed messages tend to promote positive behavior change, but loss-framed messages may be more effective for certain types of health information.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a method to produce electronic inks using untangled carbon nanotubes, which are lightweight, strong and conduct electricity. The breakthrough enables the mass production of new applications using these 'wonder materials', including tablet computers and touchscreen phones.
The study found that endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage with a combination of a nasocystic drain and transmural stents is more effective than drainage with stents alone in patients with pancreatic pseudocysts containing viscous solid debris. The procedure resulted in lower stent occlusion rates and better clinical outcomes compared ...
A study published in HortScience reveals that current nitrogen fertilization practices in California's strawberry production system are not efficient, leading to decreased water quality. The researchers suggest reducing fertilizer rates and implementing drip irrigation management to improve nitrogen use efficiency and reduce groundwate...
Typhoon Francisco is expected to make a brief landfall near Tokyo as it moves towards Japan. NASA satellites captured detailed data on the storm's structure and rainfall patterns, revealing extreme precipitation rates of over 207 mm per hour in violent storms southwest of its eye.
Derek Taylor, a researcher at Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, has been awarded the NIH New Innovator Award to develop new methods for treating cancer. His research focuses on using telomerase as a 'Trojan horse' to deliver toxic compounds to cancer cells selectively.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have devised a novel hair restoration method that can generate new human hair growth, potentially expanding the use of hair transplantation to women and younger patients. The approach uses dermal papilla cells from patient donations to induce hair follicle growth in tissue culture.
A new study suggests the southern portion of the Amazon rainforest is at a much higher risk of dieback due to stronger seasonal drying, which could lead to large volumes of carbon dioxide release and disrupt biodiversity. The researchers found that global warming is the most likely explanation for the lengthening dry season.
Scientists studied Yangtze finless porpoise hearing using medical technology to understand impact of constant shipping and construction on their critical sense of hearing. The research revealed variations in hearing sensitivity among different species, with implications for effective management strategies.
A investigational antibody-drug conjugate, MLN0264, has shown promise in preclinical models of pancreatic cancer. The drug selectively targets tumors expressing guanyl cyclase C and has been found to inhibit tumor growth when combined with traditional chemotherapy agent gemcitabine.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that widespread vaccination of adolescents for pertussis was linked to a modest reduction in infant hospitalizations. The research suggests increasing vaccination rates among teens and adults is crucial to stem the ongoing pertussis epidemic among infants.
A study of 70 elderly adults found that shorter sleep duration and poorer sleep quality were associated with greater beta-amyloid buildup in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests that optimizing sleep may help prevent or slow AD progression.
Researchers at Stanford University's Natural Capital Project used Flickr data to assess the value of natural tourist attractions, finding a reliable indicator for visitation rates and values. This approach revolutionizes study methods, providing insights into what attracts people to natural areas and informing better land management.
A new federal regulation aims to increase minority voices in research by addressing historical abuses and lack of representation. Greater community consultation and increased minority representation on Institutional Review Boards are also recommended.
A survey of 317 U.S. men and women aged 50-69 found that most patients are not being told about the possibility of overdiagnosis and overtreatment due to cancer screenings. Nearly 59% would continue screening despite learning it results in 10 overtreated individuals per life saved from cancer death.
Researchers challenge prevailing argument that farm movement led to US malaria decline in the 1930s. Instead, targeted public health interventions and infrastructure development played a crucial role. The study's findings have significant implications for eradicating malaria in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Many parents believe the HPV vaccine is unnecessary or unsafe, which poses a barrier to its success. Experts argue that clinicians must engage with parents and address their concerns through open conversations and science-based information. Social media may also play a role in future HPV vaccination programs.
A new study suggests Seattle is prone to significant landslides from earthquakes, potentially affecting hundreds of buildings and transit routes. The study's refined framework simulates ground motion and geological features to better understand the extent of potential damage.
A new process developed at the University of Illinois Chicago suggests that base metals can be used as catalysts in the manufacture of petroleum-based products. The process, which uses copper and iron, has the potential to reduce costs and environmental impact by replacing rare and expensive metal catalysts.
Research finds that growing up poor and stressed can affect an adult's ability to regulate emotions, with lower family incomes at age 9 associated with greater activity in the amygdala and less activity in the prefrontal cortex. This dysfunction is linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety.