Health
- Legalizing recreational cannabis does not increase substance use disorders or use of other illicit drugs in adults and may reduce alcohol-related problems, according to new research. The study also found no link between cannabis legalization and increases in cognitive, psychological, social, relationship or financial problems.
- Toddlers whose moms were exposed to higher levels of air pollution during mid- to late-pregnancy tend to score lower on measures of cognition, motor coordination and language skills, according to new ²ÊÃñ±¦µä research.
- The first-ever randomized controlled trial of community gardening shows it boosts fiber intake and physical activity while decreasing stress and anxiety. It could even reduce risk of cancer and chronic illness. And that’s all in the first season of getting your hands dirty.
- A new CIRES-led study finds germicidal ultraviolet light disinfection can be used to fight COVID-19 in high-risk environments. However, the technique produces harmful secondary chemicals in indoor air, with a significant but not overwhelming impact. There are multiple strategies that can be used to minimize the air quality impact, which are now under investigation.
- New findings from mechanical engineers at ²ÊÃñ±¦µä could, one day, help doctors screen patients for illnesses like depression or Parkinson's Disease.
- Laurel Hind has received a $1.8 million award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences to study white blood cells called neutrophils. Her team’s long-term goal: to identify new targets for therapeutic development.
- When Grace Leslie steps onstage, she wears a high-tech cap that transforms the pulses in her body and brain into haunting, hypnotic sounds. She hopes that same kind of musical connection can help people heal.
- Neuroscientists at ²ÊÃñ±¦µä have discovered that a specific type of brain cell could be a key player in making you feel the negative impacts of stress.
- A new international study conducted at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic shows when people simply take a moment to reflect on the consequences of their behavior, they’re more likely to make choices that benefit public health.
- In the dream clinic of the future, patients struggling with mental illness might—in addition to sharing their feelings with a therapist—have their brains scanned to pinpoint regions that may be misfiring.