Humans
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Health & Medicine
Prenatal surgery for spina bifida may get a boost from stem cells
A clinical trial for spina bifida treatment suggests that a surgical approach relying on stem cells is safe for patients. Its efficacy is still being evaluated.
- Health & Medicine
This dangerous pregnancy complication is common. A new treatment might help
Preeclampsia complicates 3 to 8 percent of pregnancies. In a recent trial, a blood filter lowered blood pressure and helped prolong some pregnancies.
- Neuroscience
Imagination is not just replaying what we see and hear
The findings differ from prior work, showing it's tough to disentangle how similarly our brains register imagined thoughts and real sensations.
- Health & Medicine
An experimental new drug for stiff person syndrome restores mobility
CAR T cell therapy wipes out rogue antibodies' source and improves walking speed in people with the same autoimmune disorder that affects Celine Dion.
- Health & Medicine
Suicide deaths in U.S. teens and young adults fell after 988 launch
Suicide is a top cause of death for teens and young adults. A study finds a link between the 988 Lifeline and a drop in their suicide mortality.
- Microbes
How climate change may increase antibiotic resistance
Rising heat and drought may spur bacteria to exchange antibiotic resistance genes, with potential risks to human health.
- Health & Medicine
Beyond Inheritance offers a new view of mutations
In her debut book, science writer Roxanne Khamsi offers a new view of mutations that’s not limited to birth and death.
- Health & Medicine
Increasing heat can boost malnutrition among children
In a study of 6.5 million children in Brazil, higher temperatures were associated with worse nutrition outcomes, especially in vulnerable groups.
- Health & Medicine
A vaccine for Lyme disease could be on the horizon
The vaccine candidate is the furthest any shot has gotten since the last one was pulled in 2002. Scientists are testing other ways to block infection.
- Anthropology
How to invent a realistic language for fictional speakers
Linguists can mix, match or even break the rules of real-world languages to create interesting imaginary ones.
- Science & Society
Know the legal age to buy tobacco products in the U.S.? Many parents don’t
A study finds that less than half of surveyed parents know the legal age, 21, to buy cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches and other tobacco products.
- Health & Medicine
Breath carries clues to gut health
At-home breath tests could reveal insights about gut health, though their ability to assess food intolerances is not yet clear.
