A new variant of COVID-19 found in Southern California is coursing across the United States and around the world, a new study finds. The variant — called CAL.20C — was first found in July in Los Angeles County. It reappeared in Southern California in October, then spread in November and December, with a regional surge…  read on >  read on >

Too much coffee during pregnancy could lead to kids with behavior problems later on. That’s the key takeaway from new research that examined 9,000 brain scans from 9- and 10-year-olds as part of the largest long-term study of brain development and child health. “The goalposts are moved by caffeine, and there are subtle, but real…  read on >  read on >

When choosing a face mask to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, it seems like the choices are endless. To make the decision a little easier, researchers at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, tested several styles in 41 types of fabric. The upshot: A mask made of two layers of low-thread-count quilting…  read on >  read on >

Cancer-causing human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered a sexually transmitted infection, but a new study shows that many babies are born carrying the virus in their mouths. “In brief, HPV infection can be acquired at early age or even at birth,” said lead researcher Dr. Stina Syrjanen, head of oral pathology and oral radiology with the…  read on >  read on >

Certain genetic factors in people with Down syndrome may increase their COVID-19 risks. Previous studies have found that people with Down syndrome are 10 times more likely to die from COVID-19, and experts have said they should be among those given priority for vaccination. In this new study, Spanish researchers examined genetic differences in people…  read on >  read on >