Researchers have identified a cellular signal in amniotic fluid that builds up when a pregnant woman is about to go into labor. The study found that telomere fragments in the fluid increase with fetal maturity and can trigger inflammation, signaling fetal readiness for delivery.
A new study examines the effectiveness of a shaken baby syndrome prevention program, Period of PURPLE Crying, which was implemented in North Carolina from 2009-2012. The program, teaching parents about normal infant crying, resulted in a decline of calls to nurse advice line but no significant change in AHT rates.
International workshop highlights need for better forecasting of long-term trends in harmful algal blooms, which threaten wildlife and economies. Research priorities focus on understanding phytoplankton community structure and developing ecological models to prepare for future scenarios.
Only 27% of older patients with diabetes underwent medication deintensification due to very low hemoglobin A1c levels or blood pressure values. Treatment was deintensified in 16% of those with moderately low and 18.8% of those with very low blood pressure levels. The study suggests that medication deintensification is underutilized, pa...
Researchers have created a new material that can store methane more efficiently, enabling the development of natural gas-powered cars with greater driving range and reduced hassle. The flexible MOF expands when methane is pumped in and contracts when it's extracted, making it suitable for use in home compressors.
High-resolution climate models show parts of the Persian Gulf region may surpass survivability thresholds for temperatures above 35°C, posing severe human health risks. The study suggests that curbing greenhouse gas emissions could prevent these extreme heat events.
A new genetic discovery has identified a significant gene called miR137 that is switched off in prostate cancer cells, contributing to the disease's initiation and progression. The study also identified potential targets for next-generation drugs to treat prostate cancer.
A new study found that a 2°C warmer climate may lead to rapid population extinctions in common lizards, with up to 30% of European populations at risk. The researchers used experimental conditions to simulate warmer climates and observed increased adult mortality, decreased population growth rates, and a shift in demographic strategy.
Scientists found that allocating greenhouse-gas emissions reductions will be key for the outcome of COP21 in Paris. A major economy acting as a forerunner and other nations following can limit warming below 2°C. This approach would require significant efforts from countries like the EU and US.
York U researchers list products expectant mothers should avoid during first trimester, including cleaning solvents, pesticides, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can disrupt brain development and increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers have discovered molecular changes within tumors that prevent immunotherapy drugs from killing off cancer cells. By reprogramming an epigenetic mechanism, the therapy might work for more patients, according to senior author Weiping Zou.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released a policy statement linking climate change with the health of children. The statement highlights the unique vulnerability of children to climate-related threats, including heat stress, air quality issues, and increased infectious diseases.
A study found that sirolimus successfully resolved autoimmune conditions in children with ALPS without adverse side effects. The treatment improved blood cell counts and quality of life for patients, making it a potential early therapy option.
Researchers found that over half of the dissolved organic carbon in ancient yedoma permafrost decomposes within one week after thawing, producing significant amounts of carbon dioxide. This rapid decomposition is attributed to high concentrations of easily degradable organic acids, posing a critical threat to aquatic ecosystems.
A team of researchers has decoded a signaling pathway involved in the onset of seizure disorders, discovering that a central switch called MTF1 plays a key role. By inhibiting this switch, they were able to reduce seizures in epileptic mice, offering new potential for diagnosis and treatment.
A $4.2 million grant will support research on nine rivers in the US and Mongolia, with a focus on large-scale ecological processes and interactions between ecoregions. The study aims to improve understanding of river systems' condition and resilience to climate change.
A recent study published in PNAS has shed light on the mechanism of action of HigB, a bacterial toxin that contributes to antibiotic resistance. The researchers found that HigB selectively degrades specific mRNAs, leading to the formation of persister cells that are tolerant to antibiotics.
Researchers at Columbia University and others present an alternative approach, Partition Retention, which displays strong power in prediction. This method identifies highly predictive variables that are not statistically significant, reducing prediction error rates from 30% to 8% for breast cancer gene analysis.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered that a molecular motor can stimulate the growth of microtubules in cells, which could lead to new treatments for cancer. The study found that kinesin-5 molecules pause at the end of microtubules and generate pushing forces, allowing them to grow the microtubes.
PharmaMar presents new studies on the treatment of ovarian cancer using YONDELIS (trabectedin) and PM1183, showing promising results in managing recurrent cancer. The studies highlight the potential benefits of combining these therapies to improve patient outcomes.
A recent study suggests that offering pregnant women a DNA test for Down's syndrome on the NHS could reduce the number of invasive tests and potentially save lives. The 'cell-free' DNA test has been found to be highly reliable and can be easily incorporated into routine clinical care within the NHS.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide discovered a family of genes that suppress HCV infection in the liver by blocking viral entry into cells. This natural immune response may lead to new treatments targeting the virus.
A new study from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds that the expanding range of the Lone star tick is causing reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever infections to rise, but fatalities have not. The mild disease spread by the aggressive tick is being mistaken for the more serious disease due to similarities in bloo...
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends increasing the minimum age to purchase tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to 21 nationwide. The AAP also urges regulations to reduce youth access, increase prices, and promote smoke-free environments to mitigate the risks of tobacco and nicotine use.
A new collaborative research project, ISIBELa, is investigating the risk of secondary cancer in later life following successful childhood cancer therapy. Researchers will analyze cases, examine patient differences, and use advanced laboratory techniques to identify genetic and epigenetic causes.
A major economy leading climate action could limit warming to 2°C, but countries must agree on fairness criteria. Effective emission reductions are possible if a leader doubles domestic targets, enabling other nations to follow and stay on track for the 2°C limit.
Despite rising life expectancy in every province of China, substantial health inequalities remain. Life expectancy is up to 10 years lower in some western provinces compared to less developed countries like Bangladesh.
A study has revealed that domesticated cattle have a more complex ancestry than previously thought, with some breeds sharing genetic similarities with ancient British aurochs. The discovery sheds new light on the evolutionary history of European cattle breeds.
Scientists at ITbM developed a new fluorescent dye, C-Naphox, with enhanced photostability to enable continuous live cell imaging by STED microscopy. The dye has demonstrated extreme photoresistance and no significant toxicity towards cells, opening doors to real-time biological event observation for extended periods.
Researchers at Stowers Institute have discovered a protein complex called SESAME that links glycolysis to chromatin modification, suggesting a potential target for detecting and treating cancers. The study's findings may also shed light on the relationship between cellular metabolism and gene expression in humans.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a new animal model of hepatitis B using humanized mice and found that CTLA4Ig suppressed damage to liver cells infected with the virus. This model is useful for studying immunological reactions and viral clearance in hepatitis B virus infection.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital found medication errors and adverse drug events occurred in almost 1 out of every 2 surgical operations, with a third resulting in harm to patients. The study analyzed over 275 operations and identified common causes of errors, including labeling mistakes and incorrect dosages.
The study found that consumers struggled to understand and compare the labels, resulting in no price premium or increased demand for labelled products. The authors suggest a simpler label design could increase consumer awareness and drive more environmentally friendly purchasing decisions.
Researchers at Virginia Tech will investigate the effects of circadian rhythms on fundamental cellular processes using a $750,000 NSF award. The study aims to understand how disruptions in circadian rhythms contribute to disease development and progression.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that youth football leagues enforce proper tackling techniques, expand non-tackling leagues, and provide skilled athletic trainers to reduce injuries among young athletes. The AAP aims to balance the recreational benefits of the game with the health risks associated with tackling.
Researchers found nearly four in five patients with a specific mutation carried out blackouts, yet only 26% received correct diagnosis and treatment. The study highlights the need for proper medical attention if symptoms occur, as delayed diagnosis can be fatal.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening all children for food insecurity and refers families to community resources. Lack of adequate healthy food can impair concentration, lead to behavioral problems, and increase risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A new study by the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals a significant increase in ACL tears among youths, particularly high school students, over the past two decades. The incidence rose by 2.3% per year, with females experiencing most ACL tears at age 16 and males peaking at age 17.
Hurricane Patricia broke records as the strongest eastern North Pacific hurricane on record, with a minimum central pressure of 880 millibars and maximum sustained winds near 200 mph. The storm is expected to produce catastrophic impacts in southwestern Mexico, including life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
A multi-center trial found that therapy dogs can reduce anxiety levels and improve heart rate stability in children with cancer, as well as their parents. The study provides the first solid data on the psychosocial benefits of animal-assisted interventions for pediatric cancer patients.
Researchers analyzed four Canadian cities using RETScreen software and found that geothermal heat pumps are most viable in Halifax. The study suggests that the systems could provide significant financial savings, breaking even within 7 years.
Researchers have identified 1,450 genes linked to ageing, as well as a connection between these genes and lifestyle factors. The study found that individuals with a biological age older than their actual age are more likely to have conditions such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.
A new study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that nearly three-quarters of mothers and fathers start developing vaccine preferences for their newborns before they know they are having a baby. Parents who were more educated and had previously discussed vaccines with their partner were more likely to form these early preferences.
A new phage treatment has shown strong anti-microbial activity against Cronobacter sakazakii, a bacterium that can kill up to 40% of infected infants. The treatment, CR5, killed the bacteria quickly and effectively, without producing toxins or virulence factors.
Hurricane Olaf remains a major hurricane with sustained winds near 115 mph, moving northward towards the Hawaiian Islands. Swells generated by the storm will produce life-threatening surf along east-facing shores.
A recent study found that stopping breastfeeding due to pain or physical difficulties increases the risk of postnatal depression. The study suggests investing in support systems to enable women to breastfeed successfully.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo propose a six-step process to improve success rates for ecological reclamation projects and control mine closure costs. The study highlights the need for a more pragmatic approach to reclamation planning that takes into account projected climate change, which could lead to billions in additiona...
Typhoon Champi is experiencing vertical wind shear, resulting in its elongation. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts the storm will weaken and transition to an extra-tropical system on October 24.
A UT Dallas political science professor has received a grant from the NSF to extend coverage of the Correlates of War Projects' Militarized Interstate Dispute (MID) data through 2017. The project aims to collect data quickly and efficiently using new methods, including crowdsourcing.
A new study has identified 28 barriers to mental health services for US adolescents affected by bullying, including inadequate screening and counseling by medical providers. The findings highlight the need for improved communication between medical providers, school officials, and parents to ensure access to mental health services.
A study found that over 40% of coaches and 50% of parents believe it's acceptable to let young athletes back into the game before receiving medical clearance, despite guidelines recommending caution. The research aims to raise awareness on safe return-to-play protocols to ensure child athletes receive proper attention after head hits.
Young adults with genetically increased Alzheimer's risk show altered activation patterns in the entorhinal cortex, a key region for spatial navigation. This alteration may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's dementia in the long term.
A new study reveals that nonpowder firearms like airsoft and paintball guns can cause severe injuries in pediatric patients. Twenty-nine percent of the children treated for nonpowder gun injuries required surgery, highlighting the need for stricter regulations on muzzle velocities to prevent such incidents.
A study analyzed 15,613 pediatric ED visits due to legal interventions between 2008 and 2010. Most injuries resulted from blows or manhandling, affecting mostly males and teenagers. The issue comes with significant financial costs, including $16.3 million in total ED charges.
A new study suggests that a mother's use of marijuana during pregnancy may indicate the use of other illicit drugs. The study found that 26% of mothers or their newborns tested positive for THC, with concurrent detection of opioids (12%), amphetamines (11%), and cocaine (6%) also common.
A large-scale study reveals that certain depression symptoms play a bigger role in driving the condition than others. The researchers suggest focusing treatment efforts on these key symptoms to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers discovered a molecular mechanism that triggers early flowering in thale cress under cool temperatures, allowing for accurate prediction and future modification of plant flowering behavior. This study provides insights into the impact of climate change on plant ecology and has potential applications for crop breeding.
A new study found that hands-on training with chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth ventilation increased students' willingness to perform CPR on actual victims. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends an effective way to teach large groups of people lifesaving skills and increase their willingness to use them if they witness...
The Atlantic Philanthropies' archives will be housed permanently at Cornell University Library's Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections. The collection documents roughly $8 billion in grants made by the foundation over three decades, providing a valuable resource for philanthropists and historians.
Researchers at RIKEN have discovered that wrinkles in graphene can form a junction-like structure, changing its electronic properties from zero-gap conductor to semiconductor and back. By manipulating the carbon structure using scanning tunneling microscopy, they have opened up new possibilities for graphene engineering.