A prototype Google Glass app, Holli, recognizes conversational prompts and provides suitable responses, improving social skills for children with autism spectrum disorder. Children find it easy to use and enjoy interacting with the technology.
A new global study reveals that countries have saved more lives over the past decade, particularly among children under 5, but persistent health problems such as obesity, conflict, and mental illness continue to hinder progress. The 'triad of troubles' poses a stubborn barrier to active lifestyles.
A new study published in Anesthesia & Analgesia found that delaying a child's tonsillectomy did not lower the risk of developing a mental disorder. Children under 5 who underwent minor surgery with anesthesia had a 26% increased risk of later diagnosis with a mental disorder.
Tropical Depression 15E is experiencing vertical wind shear due to the GOES-West satellite's observations. The National Hurricane Center expects no change in strength, but a chance for it to become a tropical storm in the coming days.
Plant geneticists have developed a new application of CRISPR technology to rapidly generate variants of crops that display improved traits. By mutating regulatory regions, the scientists can achieve subtle changes in yield traits, providing flexibility for improving crop yields. This method has the potential to break yield barriers and...
A study found that university students consistently believe their peers have more friends than they do, affecting their happiness. This misperception can be corrected through interventions to promote friendship formation, supporting students' transition to university life.
A study of over 600 colorectal surgeries found racial and socioeconomic disparities in pain management, with white patients more likely to receive optimal care. The findings highlight the importance of process measures in preventing these disparities, particularly for historically disadvantaged populations.
If DACA expires, the health care profession will face a serious challenge as many former beneficiaries experience adverse effects on mental health and psychological well-being. Health care organizations must proactively reach out to undocumented immigrants to reassure them of continued access to quality health care.
Researchers have found a subgroup of neurons in mice that drive the critical instinct of thirst, which decreases with increased water consumption. These neurons are connected to other brain regions and play a direct role in regulating thirst drive through goal-directed actions.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab developed graphene-wrapped magnesium nanocrystals with enhanced hydrogen storage properties. The study found that an atomically thin layer of oxidation forms on the crystals without degrading their performance.
A RAND Corporation report finds that repealing the Affordable Care Act would likely lead to increased demand for VA services and more uninsured veterans. The study estimates that older, low-income veterans are most at risk of losing health insurance coverage.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have confirmed that abnormalities in serotonin, a key neurotransmitter, are linked to SIDS deaths. The study found that altered serotonin expression in the brainstem is associated with some SIDS cases.
A genetic analysis of Papua New Guinea reveals a sharp genetic divide between highlanders and lowlanders, dating back 10,000 to 20,000 years. The study, led by Anders Bergström, genotyped 381 individuals from 85 language groups across PNG, finding strong genetic differentiation within both highland and lowland populations.
A global study of over 800 patients with Type 1 diabetes found that dapagliflozin, a Type 2 diabetes medicine, significantly improved blood sugar levels. The results demonstrate the drug's efficacy as an adjunct therapy to insulin, reducing A1C levels by more than 0.5% without severe hypoglycemia.
A Michigan State University study found that expressive writing helps chronically anxious individuals perform stressful tasks more efficiently by freeing up brain resources. By writing about their thoughts and feelings, participants used fewer cognitive resources, leading to improved task accuracy and reaction times.
Prellis Biologics has received $1.8 million in funding to develop patent-pending technologies for creating viable human organs using 3D printing. The company aims to solve the challenge of creating microvasculature, a crucial component of functional organs.
A new study confirms an association between sodium intake and the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D), with a 65% increase in risk for each extra gram consumed per day. The effect is even greater for Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), with a 82% rise in risk.
The Robotic External Leak Locator (RELL) successfully located a small ammonia leak on the International Space Station, confirming its safety status and avoiding a risky spacewalk. The instrument provided precise measurements of gas amounts and types, allowing operators to isolate and repair the leak.
Researchers create novel microparticles that can deliver multiple doses of a drug or vaccine with just one injection, using a biocompatible polymer and custom-built 3D printing method. The particles release drugs or vaccines at specific time intervals, mimicking the way a series of vaccines would be given, potentially improving patient...
Researchers have developed a method to infuse cotton fibers with fluorescent and magnetic properties, eliminating the need for chemical treatments. This breakthrough could enable the creation of sustainable fabrics with desirable properties.
A study of 562 older adults found that those admitted to hospice care during the last year of life were slightly older and more likely to have cognitive impairments. The most common conditions leading to death were frailty, organ failure, advanced dementia, and cancer.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered a rare genetic mutation in the ALK gene that causes peritoneal mesothelioma in young women with no history of asbestos or radiation therapy. Targeted therapy using FDA-approved drugs may be effective in treating these patients.
Tropical Storm Norma has formed in the Eastern Pacific, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing its development. The storm is expected to strengthen over the next 48 hours and could become a hurricane by late Friday.
A joint Canada-France study reveals evidence of wildfires in the French Alps during an ice age 20,000 years ago. The presence of tree charcoal and macro-remains confirms that fires occurred in high mountain areas with no vegetation to burn, challenging long-held assumptions about climate and forest ecology.
Researchers have created a new climate risk classification system to account for potential existential threats from rapid global warming. The categories include catastrophic and unknown risks, which could play out by century's end, posing dangers such as species extinctions and human health risks.
Scientists at the University of Freiburg have developed a new model to isolate and study cancer stem cells from breast cancer patients. The team found that inhibiting the epigenetic regulator KDM4 can block proliferation of cancer stem cells, induce changes in their molecular make-up, and reduce tumor growth.
A study suggests that walkable neighborhoods reduce the risk of prediabetes among immigrant populations, with higher incidence rates found in less walkable areas. The research found significant differences in prediabetes development across ethnic groups, with some populations experiencing reduced risks in high walkability areas.
A recent study by University of Washington scientists reveals that old fish are greatly depleted in dozens of global populations, mainly caused by fishing pressure. This loss can lead to reduced diversity and stability in the marine food web.
New research reveals sepsis disrupts immune system function by impairing TRM recruitment to infected skin, increasing risk of life-threatening secondary infections. In mice, sepsis stymied TRM's ability to recruit bystander T and B cells to fight infection.
Researcher Benjamin J. Perrin is advancing knowledge of age-related hearing loss by exploring the function of sensory cells in the inner ear. He hopes to develop a maintenance-of-living-cells approach to prevent or restore hearing loss, with implications for millions of people.
A study found that protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type J (PTPRJ) inhibits leptin signaling, leading to leptin resistance. PTPRJ expression in the hypothalamus is up-regulated by diet-induced obesity, making it a potential target for improving obesity treatment.
Researchers found nine microRNAs in premature breast milk that target metabolic processes, regulating gastrointestinal function and energy use in premature babies. These findings suggest that breast milk may be optimized for premature infants' nutritional needs.
Scientists at the Salk Institute have identified a key protein complex involved in regulating brain cell identity, with high levels of Nup153 found to be necessary for maintaining precursor status. This finding may provide new insights into the underlying causes of neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
A new study by USC researchers suggests that the TOMM40 gene, neighboring ApoE4 on chromosome 19, has a significant influence on late-life development of dementia and Alzheimer's. The research found that a TOMM40 variant was more influential than ApoE4 in decline of immediate memory.
Indiana University scientists have developed a new method to predict the effectiveness of molecules that extract toxic elements from the environment. The discovery could significantly reduce the volume of nuclear waste, as well as improve water purification and soil remediation techniques.
Researchers have found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles released from metal implants can interfere with bone formation and resorption, resulting in adverse effects. The review calls for further research to characterize the biological, physical, and chemical interactions between titanium dioxide nanoparticles and bone-forming cells.
Clinical evidence supports the use of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation to treat Crohn's disease-related fistulas, offering a safe and effective approach. The unique advantages of MSCs include ease of collection, low immunogenicity, and immunoregulatory activity.
Researchers reviewed the status of classical and quantum machine learning, exploring its potential to analyze both classical and quantum data. Quantum machines could accelerate processing timescales using quantum annealers and universal quantum computers.
Michigan State University will lead a $10 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to explore ways to boost camelina oilseed's yield. The team aims to achieve up to a 300-percent increase per acre in oil production by studying the plant's metabolic and gene expression networks.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new optical switch that can turn light on and off at trillionths of a second, enabling faster information processing. The breakthrough could also be used in biological imaging and chemical spectroscopy.
Researchers found that a weight loss of more than 10% can lead to a significant reduction in disease risk for individuals with metabolically unhealthy obesity. This intermediate goal can serve as a low-hanging fruit, providing documented protection against obesity-related metabolic diseases, and improving patient motivation through doc...
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $1.6M grant to UC Davis to analyze the complex relationships between surface water and groundwater supply, agricultural land use and economic wellbeing of rural, disadvantaged communities. The project aims to provide new insights for other regions facing similar issues and help local commun...
Researchers develop a highly selective, fast, and reusable catalytic system for the mild oxidation of cyclohexane to produce polyamide 6. The found [Fe(C5H5)2]/[P6.6.6.14][DCA] catalytic system can be applied to produce polyamide 6.
Researchers found that microbes associated with native species provide resistance to invasion, while those with invaders break down this resistance and may poison native plants. The study suggests a new way to restore the balance of microbial communities in sediments to reduce the risk of invasive marine species.
Researchers describe elegantly simple solution to complex problem of how tissues branch and grow, revealing self-organising process that generates space-filling networks. This discovery has huge implications for basic biology, offering new insights into cancer development and potential applications.
Researchers at McMaster University have found that antidepressants can increase the risk of death by 33% due to their impact on multiple organs, including the heart and kidneys. This finding challenges the common assumption that antidepressants are safe for most people.
Researchers found that thirdhand smoke exposure causes significant health effects in mice as early as one month after initiation of exposure, including liver damage and insulin resistance. The effects worsen with time, with stress hormones increasing and immune fatigue developing at longer exposure durations.
A Chinese study found that women with visceral fat (around internal organs) are at higher risk for developing ER- breast cancer, while those with subcutaneous fat are more likely to develop ER+ breast cancer. The study's findings suggest a complex link between breast cancer and obesity.
Astronomers have discovered an exoplanet, GJ 436b, with a huge gas cloud resembling a comet's tail, caused by intense stellar irradiation. The planet's atmosphere loses hydrogen due to the star's radiation, forming a massive cloud that absorbs UV radiation.
Research shows that pregnancy outcomes remain poor for women with type 1 diabetes, especially those diagnosed at a young age. The study found higher rates of pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, and low birth weight among mothers with childhood-onset T1D.
Researchers have created an engineered form of ADAMTS-13 (BAX 930) to restore the missing enzyme in patients with congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare and life-threatening blood disease. The therapy was found to be safe and effective, with no allergic reactions or serious adverse events.
The study highlights how human activities like tourism, trade, and agriculture impact microbial populations worldwide. Researchers warn of potential extinction risks for some microbes due to increased competition and spreading of antibiotic resistance genes.
A study by USC researchers found that women's sports receive nearly the same level of coverage as men's sports, with subtle sexism still present in mainstream broadcast coverage. Women's stories averaged only 77 seconds on SportsCenter, compared to men's stories, and are often framed in a 'gender-bland' way.
New research reveals 30% of type 2 diabetic patients don't begin insulin when initially recommended, with a 2-year average delay. This delay leads to worsening disease progression and increased risk factors.
Chronic pain affects 39-85% of people living with HIV, with neuropathic pain being a significant concern. Guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary treatment approach using non-drug options such as cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, and physical therapy.
A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that popular fitness trackers have security weaknesses that can compromise users' personal data. The team discovered vulnerabilities in communication procedures and demonstrated how to intercept messages and bypass encryption systems.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified a new genetic cause of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a photosensitive blood disorder. A dominant mutation in the CLPX gene was found to lead to excess porphyrin production, contributing to EPP.
A study found that individuals with chronic kidney disease who experienced high sleep fragmentation were at elevated risk of developing kidney failure. Higher sleep fragmentation and shorter sleep duration were also linked to steeper declines in kidney function over time. Subjectively measured daytime sleepiness was associated with an ...
According to the Global Burden of Disease study, viral hepatitis causes over 1.34 million deaths worldwide, exceeding chronic infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis.
A study found that if Santos doesn't adapt to climate change, losses could be up to ten times higher due to flood- and global warming-related diseases. The model estimates R$1.5 billion in physical building costs versus R$3 billion in total losses including health and education.
A new paper by Rice University sociologist Craig Considine reveals that Islamophobia is not just religious bias but also racism and cultural intolerance. Incidents of Islamophobia increased by 57% in 2016, and over half of hate crimes were linked to a race/ethnicity/ancestry bias.
Researchers have created miniature DNA robots that can pick up particles and deliver them to different areas using origami tracks. The robots, which move randomly along the track, have an 80% chance of successful delivery and can perform tasks such as assembling chemical compounds or rearranging nanoparticles on circuits.
Researchers develop a single-strand DNA robot that can autonomously pick up and sort molecules into distinct regions on a surface. The robot successfully sorted six scattered molecules in 24 hours, and its design can be generalized to work with dozens of types of cargos.
A new EHR-based prompt increased HCV screening rates among baby boomers from 7.6% to 72%, while also facilitating follow-up care for infected patients. The streamlined process led to a significant increase in HCV treatment prescriptions, with 67% of newly diagnosed patients receiving curative treatment.
Multilingual individuals face challenges when solving arithmetic tasks in a second language, relying on alternative thought processes and brain regions not observed in monolinguals. Functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed distinct brain activity patterns when using different languages.
Researchers test antiviral therapy to halt progressive hearing loss in children with confirmed CMV infection, finding that treatment may prevent further damage and improve outcomes for those infected.
New research reveals that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in preventing high blood pressure, with participants who kept their weight in check being 41% less likely to develop increasing blood pressure. The study also found that focusing on weight management can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
A new biomarker, LRG1, can predict the occurrence of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes, increasing their risk by 4 times. The study found that LRG1 levels were significantly higher in women who developed PE compared to those who did not.
A new nationwide study found that people of color were consistently exposed to more air pollution than whites, with a relative gap that persisted across the decade. The study estimated that if non-white populations had breathed lower NO2 levels, it would have prevented an estimated 5,000 premature deaths from heart disease.
A flexible technology for streaming high-quality underwater video images has been developed by improving bandwidth to achieve better video quality. This innovation has the potential to open up new exploration and monitoring opportunities in oceans, which cover over two-thirds of our planet.
A UC Riverside-led study identified two hormones (ecdysis triggering hormone and juvenile hormone) and a neurotransmitter (dopamine) that regulate courtship memories in males. The study found that these molecules are critical to maintaining aversive memories of failed courtship attempts, influencing future behaviors.
Clinicians must consider alternative modes of responding to challenges posed by pre-planned deaths, where decisionally capable individuals choose the time, place, and manner of their death. The concept raises questions about dignity, care, and terminology surrounding physician-assisted suicide and patient-initiated, self-conducted deaths.
Typhoon Talim's powerful storm system was observed by NASA's Terra satellite on Sept. 14, revealing a large open eye surrounded by intense thunderstorms. The storm is expected to make landfall in Japan and move northwards, prompting warnings from China and Japan.
The rehabilitated forest in Drabo harbours about 600 plant species and serves as a sanctuary for many animals. The restoration project has increased West-African forest species while declining pantropical weedy species.
Researchers used the Surface Forces Apparatus to investigate crevice and pitting corrosion in confined spaces. They observed intense local corrosion resulting in sudden pit formation, highlighting the complexity of the process and its dependence on electric potential difference.
A recent study has discovered an unexpected link between Parkinson's disease and prion diseases, revealing a complex interaction between α-synuclein and the prion protein. The findings suggest that α-synuclein deposits in brain cells can slow the progression of prion diseases.
A study published in Medical Care found that fewer than 20% of US women are aware of the risks of overdiagnosis and overtreatment from breast cancer screening. Women's perceptions of these risks are often negative, with those who have recently had a mammogram being particularly unconvinced.
Researchers found distinctive changes in brain activity of young binge-drinking college students, which may indicate early signs of brain damage. The study suggests that bingeing has tangible effects on the young brain, comparable with those seen in chronic alcoholics.
Researchers have created ultra-thin carbon nanomembranes that can filter out specific molecules from water and air, with significant implications for purification and other industries. The membranes' unique properties can be tailored to suit different purposes, making them versatile tools in various fields.
Typhoon Doksuri appeared well-rounded and organized on satellite imagery as it moved through the north central South China Sea toward Vietnam. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 85 knots (97.8 mph) and was expected to make landfall south of the city of Vinh on the coast of Vietnam on September 15.
The study reveals how arrangement of atoms creates forces that pull crystals together and align them. Researchers found that manipulating attraction through ion type, concentration, and temperature can control crystallization.
A large-scale genetic study of Papuan New Guinean people found strong genetic differences between groups, reflecting linguistic and cultural diversity. The study suggests that the country's isolated highlands region has remained genetically independent for thousands of years.
The Suomi NPP satellite captured an image of Hurricane Max on Sept. 13, revealing two 'tails' of thunderstorms feeding into the low-level center. Maximum sustained winds reached near 75 mph (120 kph), with higher gusts and a minimum central pressure of 992 millibars.
Researchers discovered that saccharin inhibits the activity of bitter taste receptors stimulated by cyclamate, while cyclamate reduces the off-taste elicited by saccharin. This finding provides tools for developing superior sweetener blends and improving their taste in food products.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MRI had a 98% sensitivity rate in detecting postpartum breast cancers, leading to changes in surgical management for 28% of patients. The study also highlighted the importance of preoperative planning in managing these aggressive cancers.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that praising children for their intelligence can lead to dishonest behavior and cheating as early as age 3. The research suggests that this type of praise can create performance pressure, causing kids to feel compelled to cheat in order to meet expectations.
A new genomic profiling study has identified genetic alterations in 96% of brain tumors in children, including genes that can be targeted with specific treatments. The study found distinct patterns of mutations between low-grade and high-grade gliomas, which could lead to more effective treatment options for these patients.
Research presents evidence that women who develop preeclampsia earlier in pregnancy are more likely to experience thickening in their heart's left ventricle one month after delivery. Women with early-onset preeclampsia also showed more severe left ventricular changes, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.
Hurricane Jose was found to have extremely intense downpours within its powerful convective storms, with rain falling at rates of over 8.9 inches per hour. The GPM satellite's 3D cross-section revealed storm tops reaching altitudes greater than 10.85 miles high.
NASA's Terra satellite and NOAA's GOES East satellite monitored the movement of Irma's remnant clouds, tracking their path across the Midwest, Pennsylvania, New England, and upstate New York. The low-pressure system associated with the remnants is expected to slide off the U.S. East coast on Friday.
Chronic kidney disease is characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. Poor sleep duration and quality are associated with steeper declines in kidney function and increased risk of developing kidney failure.
A study by Nagoya University researchers reveals that behavioral laterality in scale-eating fish is acquired through experience, with juveniles initially attacking both sides before favoring a dominant side. The stronger side's kinetic advantages support the theory that lateralized behavior is naturally determined.
Scientists are developing methods to create renewable fuel from water using quantum technology, marking a significant step forward in the pursuit of sustainable energy. The Global Precipitation Measurement mission revealed intense downpours within Hurricane Jose's powerful convective storms.
Researchers have found that electric eels use a clever trick to deliver an intense shock: they leap from the water to target threatening animals above water. This behavior prevents their electrical discharges from weakening as they dissipate through the water, making it a more effective way to deter predators.
Temple researchers discover that calorie restriction slows down epigenetic drift, which is associated with lifespan across species. The study reveals that the speed at which epigenome changes with age varies among species and that a slower rate of change is linked to longer lifespan.
A team of Stanford researchers is using satellite data to track and identify brick kilns in South Asia, which are a major source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative aims to raise public awareness and incentivize kiln owners to switch to cleaner technologies.
A new study found that most people newly recommended to take cholesterol-lowering medication under new American guidelines are from disadvantaged populations. These groups are less likely to have health insurance and receive recommended medications, highlighting access gaps in the healthcare system.
Researchers at Duke Cancer Institute identified a natural compound, koningic acid, that selectively shuts down the Warburg Effect in cancer cells. This phenomenon, where cancer cells voraciously consume glucose for energy, is controlled by an enzyme called GAPDH.
A Baylor University survey finds that religious Americans are not concerned with the secular nature of the internet. Most report no effect from the internet on their spiritual lives, while some believe it has a positive impact. The study also reveals varying views on technology's role in religion and life's purpose.
A new study reveals that up to 11% of older Americans with well-controlled diabetes are being overtreated, while around 7% are undertreated. The research emphasizes the need for personalized care in treating diabetes in older patients.
Scientists at the University of York discovered that amino nitriles in interstellar ice can trigger the formation of DNA's backbone molecule, 2-deoxy-D-ribose. This research throws doubt on the theory that amino acids formed before DNA.
Researchers identified levofloxacin as an effective antibiotic to prevent infections in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, reducing fever and bloodstream infections by 70%. The study found no increase in antibiotic resistance despite greater use of levofloxacin.
A recent Penn study found that gene expression persists during cell replication, contradicting the long-held assumption that genes become 'silent' during this process. The research, led by Katherine C. Palozola and Kenneth S. Zaret, sheds new light on how cells maintain their identity during division.
A new study in Miami-Dade County, Florida found that time spent outdoors affects Zika virus transmission and spread. Residents who spend more time outdoors are more likely to be infected, while those with high indoor exposure risk infect fewer people but spread the virus faster.
Researchers from Instituto de Medicina Molecular created a chimera virus that can test molecules to treat cancers caused by human herpes virus infection in mice models of disease. This finding preserves the functionality of LANA, a protein vital for Kaposi virus maintenance, allowing new cancer treatments to be developed.
A new study found that mandating sterile operating conditions at or close to the wound and tracking in-hospital outcomes on surgical site infections are key to minimizing surgery-related infections. The study also found that policies regulating OR personnel attire had no measurable impact on infection rates.
Scientists in Bordeaux discovered a new mechanism for storing information in synapses and controlling the storage process. They found that halting receptor movement can block the acquisition of certain types of memories, confirming the role of synaptic plasticity.
The Global Burden of Disease study reveals that poor diet is associated with 1 in 5 deaths, while tobacco causes 7.1 million deaths globally. Non-communicable diseases account for 72% of all deaths, with ischaemic heart disease being the leading cause of premature mortality.
Scientists identified Painted Rocksnail as a distinct species despite mistaken identity for over 100 years. New study confirms its restricted range and implications for conservation efforts are significant.
A new ERC grant will support research into the health effects of acrylamide exposure in early life, examining connections between foetal exposure and later health outcomes. The study aims to clarify acrylamide's other effects on humans beyond carcinogenic risks.
A team of physicists led by Hai-Bo Yu propose a new theory that dark matter particles strongly collide with each other in the inner halo of galaxies, explaining diverse galactic rotation curves. This self-interacting dark matter model thermalizes the inner halo, tying ordinary and dark matter distributions together.
Researchers identified how HIV induces antiviral interferon-stimulated genes in infected cells to survive and spread, hindering the body's early immune response. The study aims to boost expression of these genes to stop virus replication.
Vanderbilt researcher Ken Catania measured the shock from interacting with a small electric eel to solve an equation for calculating power released by bigger eels. The study revealed that eels are efficient at delivering electricity, generating hundreds of volts while maintaining high efficiency.