ScienceDaily: Health - June 06, 2024
Top health research news
Could taking certain drugs reduce risk of ruptured brain aneurysm?
A new study suggests that people who take a few common drugs may have a decreased risk of having a bleeding stroke due to a ruptured brain aneurysm. The results do not prove that these drugs reduce the risk of this type of aneurysm; they only show an association.
Healthcare providers should watch out for new and highly contagious forms of ringworm or jock itch, which are emerging as a potential public health threat, according to a pair of reports.
Oral insulin drops offer relief for diabetes patients
Diabetes rates continue to rise. Scientists have now created a pain-free drug delivery method to help people with diabetes manage the disease and maintain their health more easily. Researchers have developed oral insulin drops that when placed under the tongue are quickly and efficiently absorbed by the body, potentially replacing the need for insulin injections.
Scientists identify 'missing piece' required for blood stem cell self-renewal
Blood stem cells -- key to transplants that are used as life-saving treatments for blood cancers and blood and immune disorders -- have the capacity to self-renew, but quickly lose their ability to do so in a lab dish. Scientists have identified a protein that not only enables blood stem cells to self-renew in a lab dish, but also allows these expanded cells to function effectively after being transplanted into mouse models. The findings could help make blood stem cell transplants available to more people and improve the accessibility and safety of gene therapies that use these cells.
Universal bitter blocker could help patients take their medicines as prescribed
Strong bitterness is the main reason why people all over the world, especially children, avoid taking their medicines, putting their health, and sometimes, their lives at risk. Now, a group of scientists has identified the first temporary, universal taste blocker that works in people.
New understanding of how antidepressants work
Researchers have established a new framework for understanding how classic antidepressants work in treating major depressive disorder (MDD), reemphasizing their importance and aiming to reframe clinical conversation around their role in treatment.
AIs are irrational, but not in the same way that humans are
Large Language Models behind popular generative AI platforms like ChatGPT gave different answers when asked to respond to the same reasoning test and didn't improve when given additional context, finds a new study.
Prostate cancer: Protein identified to reduce tumor growth
As prostate cancer progresses, it becomes increasingly aggressive and can metastasize. In this form, the tumor is difficult to treat, which is reflected in high mortality rates: Worldwide, the malignant disease of the prostate is the second most common cause of cancer death in men.
Diverse friend groups promote better social cohesion and wellbeing
New research featuring more than 24,000 people has found that having diverse groups of friends improves wellbeing and social cohesion, despite people's tendency to gravitate towards people more similar to them.
Image: GoodStudio/Shutterstock.com
New Gene therapy trial shows restored hearing and speech in children born deaf, treated in both ears
A new clinical trial of five children with inherited deafness found administering gene therapy in both ears led to restored hearing and speech, and additional gains including sound source localization, ability to hear in noisy environments, and for two children, abillity to appreciate music. This is the first trial in the world to treat children with hereditary deafness in both ears with gene therapy. The investigators say their findings warrant larger international trials, and suggest this approach may be beneficial for other genetic and non-genetic causes of deafness.
Genetics study points to potential treatments for restless leg syndrome
Scientists have discovered genetic clues to the cause of restless leg syndrome, a condition common among older adults. The discovery could help identify those individuals at greatest risk of the condition and point to potential ways to treat it.
Babies use 'helpless' infant period to learn powerful foundation models, just like ChatGPT
Babies' brains are not as immature as previously thought, rather they are using the period of postnatal 'helplessness' to learn powerful foundation models similar to those underpinning generative Artificial Intelligence, according to a new study.
Poor quality diet makes our brains sad
Eating a poor quality diet might lead to brain changes that are associated with depression and anxiety. This is according to a first-of-its-kind study into the brain chemistry and structure, and diet quality of 30 volunteers.
Training cognitive control in children does not change brain or behavior
Training exercises designed to improve cognitive control in children do not make a significant difference to their ability to delay gratification or to their academic achievement, nor do they lead to any brain changes.
New method of DNA testing: Expanding scientific innovation
A team of researchers has developed a new method for target DNA sequence amplification, testing and analysis.
Higher blood pressure is associated with poorer cognition in adolescence
Adolescents with elevated blood pressure and arterial stiffness may experience poorer cognitive functions, according to a recent study. Young people with higher blood pressure performed worse, especially in tasks that measured attention and learning. In addition, arterial stiffness was reflected in weaker working memory. In view of the findings, the importance of preventing high blood pressure and arterial stiffness in childhood and adolescence is emphasized.
Great news, parents: You do have power over your tweens' screen use
For many parents, it can feel like curbing kids' screen use is a losing battle. But new research has found the parenting practices that work best to curb screen time and addictive screen behavior: restricting screens in bedrooms and at mealtimes and modeling healthy practices at home.
Unlocking the world around us for next-gen antibiotics
An international research team has found almost a million potential sources of antibiotics in the natural world.
Largest-ever antibiotic discovery effort uses AI to uncover potential cures in microbial dark matter
Almost a century ago, the discovery of antibiotics like penicillin revolutionized medicine by harnessing the natural bacteria-killing abilities of microbes. A study suggests that natural-product antibiotic discovery is about to accelerate into a new era, powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
Myelination in the brain may be key to 'learning' opioid addiction
Scientists have found that the process of adaptive myelination, which helps the brain learn new skills, can also promote addiction to opioids.
New technique reveals how gene transcription is coordinated in cells
Researchers invented a technique that allows them to observe which genes and enhancers are active in a cell at the same time. This could help them determine which enhancers control which genes and may reveal potential new drug targets for genetic disorders.
Major cause of inflammatory bowel disease discovered
Researchers have discovered a new biological pathway that is a principal driver of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and related conditions, and which can be targeted using existing drugs.
Cooperative proteins help the immune system identify and attack invaders
Scientists discovered how macrophages, which act as the immune system's first line of defense, tailor their specific responses to various intruders through the independent and cooperative functions of three SWI/SNF protein complex variants: cBAF, ncBAF, and PBAF. The findings provide new insight into macrophage-initiated inflammation, which can potentially be utilized to create therapeutics that modulate excessive and damaging inflammation during disease.
Why do 1 in 10 Americans get eczema? Is it too much salt?
A high sodium diet may increase the risk of eczema, according to researchers, who found that eating just one extra gram of sodium per day increases the likelihood of flares by 22%.
Cannabis use common among patients, with most using it to manage a symptom or health condition
Nearly one in six patients in primary care reported cannabis use, with 35% of those using at levels indicating moderate- to high-risk use disorder. The findings indicate the need for routine cannabis use screening. Currently few healthcare systems offer this screening in primary care settings.
Father's diet before conception influences children's health
A recent study provides new insights into how fathers' diets and overweight can affect their children's health even before conception. The findings of the study can help develop preventive health measures for men wishing to become fathers: The healthier the father's diet, the lower the risk for their children to develop obesity or diseases such as diabetes later in life.
Antibiotic treatment prior to surgical repair of a pediatric elbow fracture does not reduce the risk for post-operative infection.
Study reveals how 'forever chemicals' may impact heart health in older women
New research has linked multiple types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, also known as 'forever chemicals') with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women. Specifically, the study reveals how PFAS chemicals interact with pro-inflammatory pathways in older women, providing potential explanations for the increased risk.
Proton therapy demonstrates advantages in Phase III head and neck cancer trial
According to preliminary data from a multi-institution Phase III trial intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) achieved similar clinical outcomes and offered significant patient benefits when compared to traditional intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as part of chemoradiation treatment for patients with oropharyngeal (head and neck) cancer.
Chasing down a cellular 'short circuit'
A group of researchers has identified the cause of a 'short-circuit' in cellular pathways, a discovery that sheds new light on the genesis of a number of human diseases and could lead to development of a wide array of new drugs.
When mothers and children talk about problems, environment matters
Talking to their parents about daily stressors can help adolescents deal with their problems. This is particularly important during the transition to middle school, when youth often are faced with new peer and academic challenges. But does it matter where these conversations take place?
Key mechanism for maintaining proper telomere length identified
New findings describe how the enzyme CST is recruited to the end of the telomere, where it maintains telomere length with the help of subtle chemical changes made to the protein POT1.
Internet addiction affects the behavior and development of adolescents
Adolescents with an internet addiction undergo changes in the brain that could lead to additional addictive behavior and tendencies, finds a new study.
An anti-inflammatory curbs spread of fungi causing serious blood infections
Study finds that mesalamine, a common anti-inflammatory drug, can fight the fungus Candida albicans in the gut, potentially preventing the risk of invasive candidiasis in patients with blood cancers.
New deep brain stimulation algorithm may help personalize Parkinson's disease treatment
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has shown promise as a treatment for some symptoms of Parkinson s disease (PD). However, not all symptoms improve equally well with DBS. A better understanding of how different sites of electrical stimulation impact the wide range of motor symptoms associated with PD could help fine-tune treatment. By studying PD patients at five different centers treated with DBS, investigators created an atlas that mapped four major symptoms of PD onto different regions of the brain. Based on these findings, the team created an algorithm capable of generating personalized, symptom-specific DBS treatment plans, which they preliminarily tested in five patients.
Rare disease's DNA-damaging mutation could have consequences for more common conditions
In their pursuit to discover the mechanism behind how RVCL does its damage, researchers found some clues to the DNA damage theory of aging.
Lost in lockdown: Study reveals feeling isolated from others can warp our perception of time
Research has looked at the psychological impact of the pandemic through the lens of disorientation.
Veterans with service dogs have fewer PTSD symptoms, higher quality of life
Veterans who were paired with a service dog for just three months were 66% less likely to be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Study reveals high rate of drowsy driving by teens
A new study found that drowsy driving by teenagers is a common threat to public safety on U.S. roadways.
Smart thermostats provide sleep insights at home
A new study offers a framework for an objective, non-invasive and zero-effort sleep monitoring system utilizing smart thermostats equipped with motion sensors.
Getting more sleep leads to increased gratitude, resilience and flourishing
A new study found that healthy sleep has a positive impact on gratitude, resilience and flourishing in adults.
Study shows how justice facility dogs benefit wellbeing for children facing court
A new study has revealed that having a four-legged friend at Children's Court significantly reduces stress and anxiety for young victims, witnesses, and their caregivers.
New aerogels for radiative cooling and the absorption of electromagnetic waves
Scientists have developed innovative aerogels for radiative cooling and electromagnetic waves absorption. Using plastic waste, the team engineered thin-film aerogels that function as thermal insulators and radiative coolers. These aerogels can be applied to the roofs of buildings to reduce indoor temperatures. The team also created aerogels that effectively absorb electromagnetic energy, shielding both humans and sensitive equipment in our increasingly digital world.
Wearable brain imaging gives clearest ever picture of children's developing brain
New research has given the clearest ever picture of young children's developing brains, using a wearable brain scanner to map electrical brain activity. The work opens up new possibilities for tracking how critical developmental milestones, like walking and talking, are underpinned by changing brain function, and how neurodevelopmental conditions like autism emerge.
New model allows a computer to understand human emotions
Researchers have developed a model that enables computers to interpret and understand human emotions, utilizing principles of mathematical psychology. In the future, the model can help the computer to adapt its own behavior and guide an irritated or anxious user in different ways. The implications of such technology are profound, offering a glimpse into a future where computers are not merely tools, but empathetic partners in user interaction.
Tin toughens bioimplant titanium alloys through the cocktail effect
Previous research has demonstrated that adding tin to beta-type titanium alloys improves their strength. But scientists have yet to understand the reasons for this. Now, a research team has pinpointed the exact mechanisms behind this phenomenon.
New insights into T and B cells offer hope for autoimmune disease sufferers
Scientists should focus on the interactions between T and B cells to find better treatments for autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, according to a new study.
Population shifts, risk factors may triple U.S. cardiovascular disease costs by 2050
Driven by an older, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in risk factors including high blood pressure and obesity, total costs related to cardiovascular disease (CVD) conditions are likely to triple by 2050, according to recent projections. At least 6 in 10 U.S. adults (61%), more than 184 million people, are expected to have some type of CVD within the next 30 years, reflecting a disease prevalence that will have a $1.8 trillion price tag in direct and indirect costs.
New test detects more cases of cervical cancer
Researchers have developed a simpler and more effective screening method for cervical cancer than the method used today. A comprehensive study shows that the test detects significantly more cancers and precancerous stages.
How stress knocks out your cognitive reserve
While mentally stimulating activities and life experiences can improve cognition in memory clinic patients, stress undermines this beneficial relationship.
Scientists reveal how a potassium ion channel reprograms energy production in cancer cells
Researchers have revealed how a channel that controls cellular potassium levels causes metabolic rewiring in breast cancer cells, promoting tumour growth.
US drug-related infant deaths more than doubled from 2018 to 2022
Drug-involved infant deaths more than doubled (120% increase) from 2018 to 2022, with the greatest proportion of deaths in 2021 (25.8%). The most prevalent underlying causes of death included assault (homicide) by drugs, medicaments and biological substances (35.6%). A significant proportion of infants who died from drug-involved causes were born to non-Hispanic white (60.4%) and non-Hispanic Black mothers (28.5%). Furthermore, drug-induced mortality was 56.5% in male infants and 43.7% in female infants, a difference which also was statistically significant.
First step in allergic reactions, paving the way for new preventative strategies
Scientists have identified how the first domino falls after a person encounters an allergen, such as peanuts, shellfish, pollen or dust mites. Their discovery could herald the development of drugs to prevent these severe reactions.
Microscope system sharpens scientists' view of neural circuit connections
A newly described technology improves the clarity and speed of using two-photon microscopy to image synapses in the live brain.
Medical school isn't teaching doctors much about nutrition
Current medical training focuses on weight and body mass index (BMI), exacerbating anti-obesity bias and increasing the risk of eating disorders, the authors said. And it doesn't give future doctors adequate education on how to encourage healthier eating habits.
AI detects more breast cancers with fewer false positives
Using artificial intelligence (AI), breast radiologists in Denmark have improved breast cancer screening performance and reduced the rate of false-positive findings.
Scientists develop novel antibody treatment for kidney cancer
Scientists have built upon BTE technology to develop new and improved recombinant and synthetic DNA versions of therapeutic antibodies that target CA9, called Persistent Multivalent T Cell Engager (CA9-PMTE), that shows promise in pre-clinical models as a potent, long-lasting treatment against ccRCC.
Sunshine spurs spending: Investors bet big on sunny days
New research has found a connection between pleasant weather conditions and higher investment in lottery-like stocks.
Airplane noise exposure may increase risk of chronic disease
A new study indicates that airplane noise may increase one's risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases, a cluster of conditions such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension. The study found that people who were exposed to airplane noise levels at 45 dB or more were more likely to have higher self-reported body mass index (BMI), with the highest BMI measures linked to aircraft noise levels at 55 dB or above.
New machine learning method can better predict spine surgery outcomes
Researchers combine AI and mobile health to predict recovery from lumbar spine surgery.