A study by Dr Lixin Ren found that extracurricular activities have a limited impact on math skills in preschool children, with effects dependent on behavioral regulation and approaches to learning. For children with poor self-regulation skills, structured activities can improve early math skills.
A team of researchers has developed a novel experimental system to simultaneously measure the mechanical properties and internal structure of rubber-like materials. The study found that strain within these materials is non-uniform, depending on the shape and size of composite particles.
Two new studies reveal that depression, anxiety and chronic stress increase the risk for heart and brain health complications. Researchers found that these mental health conditions can accelerate the development of cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Researchers from Ritsumeikan University developed a low-cost, self-powered biosensor for monitoring organic wastewater in freshwater lakes and rivers. The biosensor uses a microbial fuel cell to detect the level of organic contamination in water samples, providing an early warning system for water quality management.
A University of Missouri study found that opioid-dependent mothers experience stigma, leading to withdrawal from healthcare and negative outcomes for their infants. The research highlights the need for compassionate support and education to promote better health outcomes.
A new study found that high-peace countries are characterized by an increased prevalence of words related to optimism for the future and fun, while low-peace countries feature more references to control and fear. The research used a machine learning model to identify these linguistic patterns in media articles from 18 countries.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2023
Thyroid cancer incidence is significantly higher in more affluent areas of São Paulo State, Brazil, compared to less developed regions like Barretos. The study suggests overdiagnosis may be responsible for this trend, with mortality rates remaining similar across socioeconomic groups.
The study analyzed global data from the past three decades, revealing an overall increase in hypertensive heart disease (HHD) prevalence but a decrease in mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The burden of HHD is particularly concerning for healthcare systems due to higher prevalence with lower mortality rates.
Older adults with a GED certificate have higher odds of cognitive impairment, hearing impairment, and limitations in daily activities compared to high school graduates. The study suggests that the cognitive reserve hypothesis may partially explain these disparities, as well as access to healthcare services.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $1.6 million to Emory University researchers to develop predictive models for farmers to adapt to climate change in Georgia, Iowa and Ohio. The project aims to create a public online tool to explore possible futures of agriculture at regional and state levels.
A three-year USDA grant will train healthcare and social workers in five high-risk rural Missouri counties to address childhood trauma and reduce opioid overdoses. The training covers topics such as ACEs, positive childhood experiences, and trauma-informed care.
A study by UCLA researchers found that children of parents with adverse childhood experiences are at increased risk of arrests and convictions by young adulthood. Positive childhood experiences were not observed to provide a balance for the adverse ones.
The HY4RES project aims to develop hybrid renewable energy systems combining solar, wind, and pumped storage hydropower to provide energy self-sufficiency for communities. Researchers will conduct a life cycle sustainability assessment of the technologies' impacts on the Atlantic Area.
Researchers from Drexel University's Autism Institute found that most TikTok videos providing information on autism were inaccurate or overgeneralized. Healthcare professionals' content was more likely to include accurate information, while personal experience-based videos were not coded in the study.
The study, which analyzed data from older adults with peptic ulcer disease, revealed that approximately 1 in 8 individuals developed depression for the first time during the pandemic. Women, those who felt lonely, and those with functional limitations were at higher risk of depression. Targeted screening and intervention are being reco...
A long-term study found that changes in core autism characteristics are related to the development of mental health challenges during elementary school years. Restrictive and repetitive behaviors may help reduce anxiety for autistic individuals.
Researchers discovered that inhibiting the BRAF/EGFR/MEK pathway significantly reduced cancer stemness and drug resistance in primary colorectal cancer cells. The study also identified a triple combination treatment against BRAF, EGFR, and MEK as a promising approach to block these activities and develop effective treatments.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have published a guide for prioritizing the next steps in completing the human genome catalog. The study highlights the importance of cataloging non-coding RNA genes and enhancing databases of gene variations that cause illness and disease.
Researchers discovered the STAT3 signaling pathway as a potential target for treating H3K27M-mutant diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs), a uniformly lethal central nervous system malignancy. The current standard of care, including palliative radiation and chemotherapy, remains ineffective in this disease.
A study using data from over 10,000 UK participants found that young children with warm parental relationships tend to display more socially-desirable behaviors like kindness, empathy and generosity. This association holds even after accounting for mental health factors.
A new study by Uppsala University found that pre-school children aged 3–6 years can describe their feelings and family relationships in detail. The research suggests that children seek comfort from others when experiencing conflicts with parents, but also have positive experiences of making up after a fight.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that children of parents with higher work-related stress have lower socioemotional competency at age 4-5. Meanwhile, mothers' job dissatisfaction does not impact family mealtimes, but fathers' financial dissatisfaction leads to reduced attendance and negative child development outcomes.
A study of Music Together program found increased conversational turns and parent verbal quality in participants, suggesting community-based music programs as a promising population-level intervention for infancy. Future work should include broader populations to generalize results.
A new program, Recipe 4 Success, helps toddlers develop essential self-control skills like paying attention, controlling their bodies, and cooperating with parents. By involving them in cooking activities, toddlers learn to try new foods and improve their eating habits.
Recent state-sponsored infrastructure projects in Angola and Mozambique have been linked to climate-related humanitarian disasters. Research by Ruy Blanes highlights the need for local consideration in planning, as neglect can lead to devastating consequences.
A study published by the University of Birmingham found that people living in Gaza with intermittent electricity supplies experienced higher levels of anxiety and depression, while those with reliable access had improved wellbeing. The researchers emphasized the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions to address this crisis.
The study reveals that while CTFs showed small increases in saved sums, many accounts remained untouched and parents had forgotten or lost track of them. The research calls for revisiting the principles behind the programme to improve UK's financial resilience.
A large study of 57,980 children found that increased TV/DVD screen time from age 1 year is linked to negative effects on later development. Researchers recommend family media management and social support for parents to mitigate these consequences.
A new study warns that grassroots community-oriented coworking spaces are under threat from large operators, which are changing the business models and strategies of coworking space owners. The study found that smaller operators struggle to compete due to lack of financial independence and diversification.
A study by the University of Delaware found that structural stigma negatively impacts LGB individuals, leading to later coming-out ages and longer closet durations. The research used EU-LGBTI Survey II data from over 137,000 participants across 28 European countries.
A study found that Spanish-speaking Latino preschoolers were more generous than their English-speaking peers, while English-speaking children chose competitive options. This suggests that children from collectivist cultures prioritize group well-being over individualism even at a young age.
Dr Saskia Limbach receives ERC Starting Grant to investigate the effects of the printing press on widows' rights and agency. The project 'WidowsPrint' aims to reconstruct the professional networks of women book printers and analyse their economic contributions in 16th-17th century Germany.
The American Heart Association and NFL offer resources to support physical activity in classrooms. The initiative aims to promote whole-body health and reduce sedentary behaviors among students.
The University of Miami has been awarded a $23.57 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to join the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program. The research team will investigate how stress experienced by parents can affect their children's development.
A University of Missouri researcher created an evidence-based, online professional development curriculum to help teachers recognize, respond to, and prevent bullying towards students with disabilities. The curriculum emphasizes building rapport, social skills, and communication skills to improve classroom climates and reduce bullying.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that stressful life events and poor sleep are major contributing factors to irregular heart rhythms after menopause. The study analyzed data from over 83,000 women aged 50-79 and found a significant association between stress, insomnia, and atrial fibrillation.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children who spent more than four hours a day on screens at age one were more likely to experience developmental delays by age four. The research suggests that different domains of development, such as communication and problem-solving skills, may be affected differently by screen time.
The study found a significant decline in the prevalence of serious later-life cognitive impairments among Black Americans, narrowing racial disparities. However, racial disparities persisted in activities of daily living and functional limitations. Improved air quality may have contributed to the narrowing of disparities in cognitive i...
A new study found that boys' sleep patterns remain stable until around age 12, suggesting that social and behavioral factors may play a role in sleep problems. After this age, changes in sleep patterns may begin to occur, making it essential for parents to seek help when needed.
A new report argues that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities should be given equal opportunities to learn languages. Learning a second language can provide numerous benefits, including linguistic awareness, speech skills, and social interaction.
Researchers found that childhood adversity can reshape an individual's moral development, leading to a 'deformative experience' that pulls them away from their true nature. This asymmetric sensitivity to life history information affects judgments of praise and blame.
A new study finds SARS-CoV-2 infection significantly associated with development of high blood pressure in hospitalized adults. Persistent high blood pressure was more common in people with COVID-19 than influenza, highlighting potential long-term cardiovascular risk.
A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine documents a consistent risk level across race and gender for victims of partner violence and child abuse. The risk is similar among adult males and females and lower income Black and White Americans, increasing by 20-35% compared to those without interpersonal violence.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2023
A study reveals that racial differences in gut microbiome composition arise after 3 months of age and persist through childhood. Early social and environmental exposures play a significant role in shaping the gut microbiome, with research suggesting that environmental and social factors contribute to health disparities.
A recent review paper highlights the need for an interdisciplinary approach to designing and implementing renewable energy systems. Local communities' values and concerns must be considered to ensure public backing for the essential energy transition. The study emphasizes the risks of ignoring socio-technical grand challenges in wind e...
A new study from the University of Essex finds that modern parental pressures and expectations are leaving children with less time for independent play. This is leading to concerns about children's development and increased sedentary behavior due to technology. The study suggests a need for a culture shift where policymakers encourage ...
A new study finds that in-school occupational therapy can create positive learning environments for children with autism by supporting parent-teacher relationships and understanding their unique needs. The therapy helps teachers get to know the child's needs better and facilitate effective communication between parents and schools.
A systematic review found that social media use interventions improved mental wellbeing in over a third of studies, with significant improvements in depression. Therapy-based interventions were most effective, with 83% improvement rates compared to limited or no social media use.
A new American Heart Association science advisory emphasizes the need for more resources and best practices in pediatric preventive cardiovascular care. The survey found that many programs are overwhelmed with referrals and have long wait times, highlighting the importance of updated guidelines and strategic action plans.
Researchers from Finland and international partners applied the doughnut model to transport, finding that it can help balance social and environmental needs. The study highlights the need for metrics that consider both travel time and wider effects on the environment.
A global study analyzed data from over 6,600 families with a child with a neurodevelopmental condition to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted their anxiety levels. The results show that anxiety increased for parents and children at the beginning of the pandemic, but decreased for children as they returned to pre-pandemic levels.
A University of Otago study found that children who watched more TV as kids were more likely to develop metabolic syndrome in adulthood. The research, published in Pediatrics, associated prolonged screen time with a higher risk of overweight and obesity in mid-adulthood.
Children with greater language diversity are more sensitive to contextual factors when assessing an informant's reliability. This study found that bilingual children selectively trust informants who have provided accurate cues in the past, but not those who provide inaccurate cues. Bilingualism may enhance social-cognitive development ...
New research found that positive intergroup contact reduces the development of conspiracy theories about other groups. Experts from the University of Nottingham discovered that among British participants, positive contact interfered with the development of conspiracy beliefs about immigrants and Jewish people.
A new report suggests that AI-powered robot companions could alleviate the loneliness epidemic and its associated health risks. Companion robots have already shown promise in reducing stress and promoting physical and mental well-being in socially isolated older adults.
Mothers with a criminal record and care experience face negative judgements and excessive scrutiny due to their 'known' status. The study emphasizes the need for supportive dialogue across disciplinary boundaries to break cycles of stigma and social care involvement, focusing on safe spaces and trust-building for care-experienced mothers.
A new study found that COVID-19 pandemic babies had communication skill gaps at age 2, with a larger proportion scoring below standardised cut-offs for developmental concern. Despite this, most developmental and behavioral outcomes were comparable to pre-pandemic born babies.
A new study found that homophobic name-calling, even from friends, has a negative impact on teenagers' mental health, including depressive symptoms and decreased sense of belonging. The research highlights the importance of clear anti-bullying policies, teacher education, and supportive interventions to prevent such behavior.
Researchers from HSE Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience examine the brain's reaction to social norms violations and calculate a behavioral index to assess an individual's sensitivity to unfairness. This index can be used to develop personalized rehabilitation programs for patients with various types of behavioral disorders.
Researchers developed a pilot study to address the issue of thermal discomfort in social housing projects. They proposed replacing conventional windows with fully openable tilting windows, monolithic expanded polystyrene walls, and green-tinted tempered glass, which can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.