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Preterm, low birth-weight babies may need new hips in adulthood

Researchers found a significant association between low birth weight and preterm birth with an increased incidence of hip arthroplasty independent of age, sex, BMI, education level, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and physical activity. No significant association was found with knee replacement surgery.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateNov 3, 2014

The bee's knees for identifying genetic triggers of novel adult traits

Researchers found that adults rely on novel genes---called taxonomically restricted genes (TRGs)--found in honeybees to develop new traits. These genes are often expressed at high levels in specific tissues and provide specialized work for adult organisms, supporting the evolution of novel physiological traits.

'Integrated Play Groups' help children with autism

A new study shows that Integrated Play Groups are effective in teaching children with autism to interact with peers and engage in symbolic play. The model, developed by Pamela Wolfberg, focuses on collaborative rather than adult-directed activities, allowing children to learn social skills through interactions with peers.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateOct 27, 2014

Relationships benefit when parents and adult children use multiple communication channels

A study by Jennifer Schon found that adult children's relationship satisfaction with their parents is modestly influenced by the number of communication tools used, such as cell phones, email, and social networking sites. Adding another channel can lead to a modest increase in relationship quality and satisfaction, especially for paren...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEmerging Adulthood·DateOct 24, 2014

Teens whose parents exert more psychological control have trouble with closeness, independence

A new longitudinal study found that teens whose parents exerted more psychological control at age 13 had problems establishing friendships and romantic relationships with balanced closeness and independence. The study suggests that parents' use of psychological control can hinder teens' development of autonomy in relationships.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateOct 23, 2014

What 20 years of research on cannabis use has taught us

A major new review of cannabis research reveals adverse effects on mental and physical health, including increased risk of addiction, psychosis, and respiratory problems. Chronic cannabis use is linked to lower educational attainment and intellectual impairment, while adolescent use is associated with a doubling of schizophrenia risk.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateOct 6, 2014

Americans undergo colonoscopies too often, study finds

A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that healthy Americans who undergo colonoscopies do so too frequently, with many receiving repeat screenings long before they should. The study suggests that endoscopists should adhere to national guidelines more closely.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2014

Evidence of genetic link to PTSD in soldiers exposed to childhood trauma

Researchers at Columbia University and the University of Michigan found an interaction between the ADRB2 gene and childhood adversity in a study of Ohio National Guard soldiers. The study suggests that genetic variations can influence PTSD symptoms, particularly in individuals with two or more experiences of childhood trauma.

Study shows steep decline in tooth loss, increase in socioeconomic disparities

A new study projects a continued decline in US edentulism prevalence through 2050, with high-income households experiencing the steepest reduction. However, tooth loss remains disproportionately prevalent among low-income populations, highlighting a need for targeted public health measures to address this issue.

Try, try again? Study says no

A recent study suggests that adults' more highly developed cognitive skills can actually interfere with their ability to learn certain elements of a second language. This 'effort paradox' is thought to occur when adults try to analyze too much information at once, leading to difficulties in learning the morphology of an artificial lang...

Adults can undo heart disease risk

A Northwestern Medicine study found that adults who adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors in their 30s and 40s can control and potentially reverse coronary artery disease. The study also showed that losing healthy habits as they age leads to a measurable negative impact on heart health.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCirculation·DateJun 30, 2014

Inside the adult ADHD brain

Researchers discovered distinct patterns of brain activity in adults with and without childhood ADHD, finding that those who recovered from the disorder have restored normal synchrony in their brain's default mode network. However, both groups showed impaired executive function, a sign separate from ADHD.

Early childhood stimulation intervention in Jamaica yields better pay in adulthood

A 20-year study found that early childhood development programs in Jamaica improved cognitive and emotional development, leading to higher earnings and better economic status for adults. The intervention, which included weekly home visits and educational games, compensated for developmental delays faced by disadvantaged children.

Outgrowing emotional egocentricity

Max Planck researchers identify supramarginal gyrus region crucial for children's ability to assess others' emotions, improving with age. The study reveals that adults can easily overcome egocentrism, whereas children between 6-13 tend to project their own emotions onto others.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMay 26, 2014

Bullying may have long-term health consequences

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that bullied children experience chronic, systemic inflammation that persists into adulthood. In contrast, bullies may benefit from increased social status through bullying, which can protect against increases in inflammatory markers.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2014

Love makes you strong

Researchers discovered that young adults in romantic relationships exhibit reduced neuroticism over time. The study found that partners support each other and positive experiences change thought structures, leading to increased stability. This effect is observed in both men and women, with long-term relationships having a stronger impact.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Personality·DateMay 9, 2014

Cereal box psychology

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab researchers found that cereal boxes marketed to children have a lower shelf placement and downward-facing characters, creating incidental eye contact. This leads to increased feelings of trust and connection with the brand, as well as higher ratings for consumer preference.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateApr 2, 2014

Life expectancy gains elude overweight teens

A nationwide study found that overweight and obese teenagers in Israel had no significant improvement in survival rate over four decades, compared to normal-weight peers. Mortality rates among these teens were higher than those observed in the 1960s and 1970s.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 26, 2014