A study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles found that playing with Barbie dolls can restrict girls' career aspirations compared to playing with more neutral toys. The researchers suggest that the doll's unrealistic appearance and objectification may contribute to this effect.
A new study reports that prehospital stroke alerts can shorten the time to CT scans, allowing for faster emergency treatment. The alerts were issued by trained EMS personnel and resulted in a significant reduction in door-to-needle times.
A survey of nurses and patients in a UK hospital found that many struggle to identify qualified doctors from their name badges, which use new terminology introduced since 2009. The researchers call for a national review of the current system, suggesting simpler terms that include 'doctor,' 'senior,' and 'junior' to improve identification.
Researchers find that a novel approach to accessing the uterus, using the wrist instead of the groin artery, can significantly reduce pain and trauma for women undergoing uterine fibroid embolization. The transradial access technique allows patients to walk immediately after treatment, improving their experience.
A new dinosaur species found in Portugal is estimated to be the largest land predator in Europe, with blade-shaped teeth up to 10 cm long. The dinosaur, Torvosaurus gurneyi, could reach 10 meters long and weigh around 4-5 tons, making it one of the largest terrestrial carnivores from the Jurassic period.
A new software system, XMLMATE, uses genetic algorithms to detect software errors, covering almost twice as many fatal errors as similar test methods. The system can be applied to various programming languages and applications, including computer networks, websites, and operating systems.
A new technique uses DNA methylation signatures to detect immune cell types in blood samples, showing high accuracy compared to existing methods. The approach counts specific chemical alterations that distinguish between cell types, enabling researchers to understand the unique signature of each cell type.
NASA successfully tested remote robotic oxidizer transfer technology, enabling robots to replenish hazardous propellant in satellites. The technology has the potential to extend satellite life, mitigate orbital debris, and aid commercial satellite servicing.
A study found that changing hospital orders increased pertussis immunization rates by 69% among new mothers, providing protection for themselves and their newborns. Implementing a standing order led to the largest increase in vaccinations, raising the rate from zero to 69%.
Scientists developed a wearable wristband that can detect and quantify a wide range of toxic substances, including pesticides and industrial chemicals. The silicone-based band can absorb over 1,000 chemicals, providing a valuable tool for determining individual exposure and risk.
Researchers at University of Oxford are using patient stories to stimulate change in healthcare. They've found that small changes, such as clocks on the wall for intensive care patients or more comfortable pillows, can greatly improve patient experience. This approach brings compassion and dignity back to the fore.
The ASTRO white paper recommends specific guidance for high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy to improve patient safety and quality. The manuscript highlights the need for a quality management program, including checklists and forms, as well as multidisciplinary treatment team coordination.
Researchers detected atypical development in nearly half of the younger siblings of children with autism by 12 months. The study found that many of these children showed delays in social, communication, cognitive, or motor development, particularly in social-communication domains.
Researchers found that girls who play with Barbie dolls see fewer career options for themselves than boys. In contrast, playing with a neutral doll like Mrs. Potato Head had no significant effect on their career aspirations.
A recent University of Oklahoma study suggests that non-uniform climate warming affects global regions differently, impacting ecosystem functions such as food production and carbon sequestration. The effects of non-uniform warming on terrestrial ecosystems are a key challenge in carbon cycle research and future predictions.
The internet is now a routine feature of being ill, with people seeking reflections, insights, and practical advice from others. The study found that film, animations, sound, pictures, and personal experiences make health information more digestible.
A team of researchers found that 71% of surveyed birds had female song, contradicting the long-held assumption that bird song is an exclusively male trait resulting from sexual selection. The study suggests that social selection may have played a role in the evolution of bird song, with both males and females competing for resources.
A leading US cardiovascular research scientist argues that low saturated fat diets do not reduce heart disease risk and that current dietary guidelines are based on flawed data from the 1950s. He recommends a diet low in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods to boost and maintain heart health.
A new study finds that adipose fins have evolved repeatedly and independently in multiple species of teleost fish, representing a unique example of convergent evolution. The research provides a new model for exploring the evolution of vertebrate appendages and challenges traditional views on how new fins and limbs develop.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University and MIT have identified a key enzyme necessary for a disease-causing bacterium to survive, which may lead to the development of new antibiotics. The study found that eliminating this enzyme or its manganese-attachment protein prevents the bacterium from causing heart valve disease.
A Northwestern University-designed intravaginal ring provides both antiretroviral drug and contraceptive protection for months, addressing a significant need in women's reproductive health. The device, known as the tenofovir levonorgestrel IVR, has been engineered to deliver controlled doses of these medications over an extended period.
The Yangambi km5 banana variety produces toxic metabolites that kill the nematode Radopholus similis, a major roundworm pest. This discovery could lead to the development of edible and pest-resistant banana varieties, as well as new pesticides against nematodes.
A new program from UNC's Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute prepares students with autism for life after high school by focusing on emotions, friendships, and literacy skills. Early results show improved social interactions and confidence among participants.
Researchers develop a sponge-like gel that compresses and induces transplanted cells to form minerals and begin tooth development. The bioinspired material could one day help repair or replace damaged organs, such as teeth and bone.
New research from Concordia University suggests that bilingual children, like monolingual peers, prefer interactions with those speaking their mother tongue with a native accent. This bias may be related to children's preference for familiarity, according to the study.
Scientists at Empa have developed a material that can adapt its vibration properties electronically, allowing for the precise control of wave propagation. This breakthrough enables the creation of mechanical components with freely programmable properties, revolutionizing fields like mechanical engineering and plant construction.
Researchers discovered 3D plumes of brain activity propagating through the avian brain, differing from mammalian slow-wave-sleep patterns. This finding suggests alternative computational properties and challenges the layered organization assumption.
New research from North Carolina State University suggests that it is not yet possible to tell if microscopic structures in fossilized feathers are melanosomes, which contain pigment, or ancient bacteria. Researchers used various microscopy techniques to examine the structures and compared them to melanosomes found in living birds.
Researchers have created a hydrogel actuator that can change shape in response to changes in pH, using mussel protein-inspired chemistry. The device has the potential to be used for drug delivery and could be programmed to adopt various shapes by adjusting the placement of ions, composition, and voltage.
Researchers genetically engineered T cells to resist HIV infection by inducing the CCR5-delta-32 mutation. The study showed promising results with reduced viral loads and persistent modified cells in patients.
Tropical Cyclone Faxai weakened as wind shear stretched it out, with maximum sustained winds dropping to 50 knots/57.5 mph. The storm was expected to become extra-tropical by the end of March 5 as it embedded into a westerly flow.
Researchers at USC have validated the quantum nature of D-Wave processors using elaborate tests on its functional qubits. The results consistently agree with quantum models but contradict classical models, indicating the presence of quantum effects.
Researchers found that the C9orf72 mutation alters DNA shape, leading to cell death and abnormal protein processing. The mutation also affects nucleolin, a key protein involved in stress response, causing cells to become stressed and die.
A new criminal offence of wilful neglect is needed in the healthcare sector to address appalling care and provide a clear message. Existing regulation is not up to the job, and patients can only seek redress through civil courts, which have limited scope.
Eight international scientists propose eight sustainable livestock strategies to cut costs while boosting the quantity and quality of food produced. These include feeding animals less human food, raising regionally appropriate animals, and tailoring practices to local culture.
A new study disputes the idea that humans experience six basic emotions universally, citing context-dependent expression recognition. Researchers found that facial expressions and vocalizations were not consistently labeled with emotion words across cultures, suggesting cultural categories may be at play.
A study found that adolescent girls who avoided painful thoughts and emotions were more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after child maltreatment. In contrast, those who openly discussed their experiences had lower PTSD symptoms.
Researchers identified compounds in hop leaves that could prevent bacterial adhesion and toxin release, potentially repurposing a discarded byproduct. The study found three new compounds and substantial amounts of proanthocyanidins, which are healthful antioxidants.
A new tool called REALPHY reconstructs evolutionary trees from sequencing data without errors and biases. The method is simple enough for biologists to use, generating accurate phylogenies quickly.
The American Educational Research Association has selected 22 scholars as 2014 AERA Fellows, recognizing their significant contributions to education research. The new fellows join the ranks of 557 current AERA Fellows and will be inducted on April 4 during the AERA 2014 Annual Meeting.
Researchers from the University of Granada have patented a technique that allows for real-time and non-invasive measurement of phosphate ions inside osteoblasts, precursors to bone cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs against osteoporosis.
A new study conducted by Brigham Young University professor Niwako Yamawaki found that nearly half of Hirono's survivors experienced clinically concerning PTSD symptoms. Eating right and exercising regularly were identified as key factors in fostering resilience among disaster survivors.
A new study by IIASA researchers suggests that increasing labor force participation by as little as 1 or 2 percentage points could allow pension ages to be reduced by one year without increasing the burden on the working population. This approach is considered more palatable politically than raising retirement age, which has proven unp...
The University of Notre Dame has established a state-of-the-art research center for drug discovery and development, with the aim of improving lives worldwide. The Warren Family Research Center will support the translation of basic scientific discoveries into new therapeutics.
Researchers will develop and test new vaccines and broad-spectrum treatments for Ebola and Marburg, which are considered high-risk bioterrorist pathogens. The grant aims to address the critical problem of no approved treatments or vaccines for these deadly viruses, with potential applications in post-exposure treatment.
Researchers found that injecting a virus directly into one melanoma tumor can induce a potent anti-tumor immune response, destroying both infected and non-infected tumors. This combination therapy overcomes the limitations of oncolytic virotherapy and checkpoint blockade.
Research finds children with respiratory tract infections attending nursery may contribute to illness spread; parents consider work and care responsibilities when deciding.
Researchers found relatively low iron amounts and minimal sulphur compounds in the Ghost wreck, suggesting it might not face the same preservation issues as the Vasa. Three studied ships, including the Crown, display more aggressive sulphur compounds and higher iron concentrations.
A new study suggests that Alzheimer's disease contributes to nearly as many deaths in the United States as heart disease or cancer. Researchers analyzed data from 2,566 participants aged 65 and older, finding a significant association between dementia diagnosis and increased mortality.
A single gene, doublesex, regulates complex wing patterns and structures required for mimicry in swallowtail butterflies. This study reveals that the gene's known role in sexual differentiation has been co-opted to control wing pattern.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a key protein target for shutting down the growth of prostate cancer cells. ERG protein is transformed into cancer cells by an enzyme called USP9X, but a molecule called WP1130 can block this process.
A team of University of Leicester academics helped develop NICE guidelines to prevent diabetes in black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. The new guidance emphasizes the importance of body mass index as a signal for preventive action, aiming to reduce the incidence of diabetes by increasing physical activity and healthy diet.
A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that preserving a fallopian tube following an ectopic pregnancy has no significant benefit for fertility prospects. The research, published in The Lancet, compared outcomes between two surgical treatments: salpingectomy and salpingotomy.
A new study by Bowling Green State University researchers links adolescent relationship violence to increased symptoms of depression among both victims and perpetrators. The study found that high levels of discord within intimate relationships have a similar negative effect on the emotional well-being of young men and women.
A new meta-analysis by IOF-IFCC found moderate but significant associations between bone turnover markers s-CTX and s-PINP, and risk of future fractures. The study confirms the clinical performance of these markers for fracture risk prediction in untreated individuals.
A new analysis confirms that behavioral measures used in the VOICE study did not accurately predict women's use and nonuse of HIV prevention products. Biological measures, such as drug levels in stored samples, provided a more accurate picture of adherence.
Researchers use computational fluid dynamics to study respiratory disorders and provide surgeons with more accurate treatment approaches. The method leads to better surgical outcomes, reduced surgeries, and improved patient recovery.
Two new HIV prevention products, a combination antiretroviral vaginal ring and a film releasing the drug dapivirine, show safety and hold promise for further development. The products aim to provide an array of options for women-initiated prevention tools against HIV.
A new study from Aarhus University suggests that screening for breast cancer primarily detects indolent cancer cases, which would otherwise have been fatal. Despite detecting more early-stage cases, the number of advanced stages has remained virtually unchanged.
Researchers at the University of Vienna developed a new, atom-economical chemical synthesis for α-arylated Carbonyl derivatives. The method eliminates the need for additional reagents, reducing product contamination and labor-intensive reaction conditions.