ScienceDaily: Health - March 13, 2025
Top health research news
Children who lack fish in their diets are less sociable and kind, study finds
Children who consumed the least amounts of seafood at 7-years-old were likely to be less 'prosocial' at ages 7 and 9 years than those who regularly consumed seafood, according to a new study. 'Prosocial' behavior includes friendly interactions, altruism, and sharing.
Routine asthma test more reliable in the morning and has seasonal effects, say doctors
A lung function test used to help diagnose asthma works better in the morning, becoming less reliable throughout the day, researchers have found. Using real world data from 1,600 patients, available through a database created for speeding up research and innovation, the team also found that its reliability differs significantly in winter compared to autumn.
Targeted alpha therapy: Breakthrough in treating refractory skin cancer
Metastatic melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. In an effort to achieve targeted therapy for metastatic melanoma, researchers recently developed a new radioactive drug that emits alpha particles. With their short range of emission and high energy, alpha particles are particularly promising for targeted therapies that require high energy release in the cancer tissue while minimizing the damage to nearby healthy tissues.
Blind to the burn: Misconceptions about skin cancer risk in the US
Experiencing five or more severe sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increases the risk of melanoma by 80% and nonmelanoma skin cancer by 68%. This study is among the few to examine the relationship between perceived cancer risk, concern about being diagnosed, confidence in health, sunburn history, and the prevalence of sun protection behaviors, all in relation to sociodemographic factors in U.S. adults. Findings reveal statistically significant associations between the number of sunburns and sociodemographic factors.
Mosquito pain receptors are less sensitive during extreme heat
Hotter temperatures may render natural insect repellents less effective against mosquitoes, according to a new study.
Assessing pain, anxiety and other symptoms of nursing home residents unable to speak for themselves
As many as half of nursing home residents are cognitively impaired and may be unable to communicate symptoms such as pain or anxiety to those caring for them. Therefore, information needed for the evaluation of symptoms and subsequent treatment decisions typically does not reliably exist in nursing home electronic health records. A new paper reports on the novel adaptation of a commonly used symptom assessment instrument to more comprehensively acquire this difficult-to-obtain data with the ultimate goal of enabling knowledge-based expansion of palliative care services in nursing homes to address residents' symptoms.
Promising new research shows potential to cure recurrent urinary tract infections
Researchers have studied a new method to deliver antibiotics, specifically gentamicin, directly into the bladder tissue to better treat UTIs. They did this by creating nanogels combined with a special peptide (a small protein) that helps the drug get inside the cells where the bacteria are hiding. The results demonstrate that this approach proved highly effective when tested in animal models with UTIs, eliminating over 90% of the bacteria from the bladder.
Lighting the way: How activated gold reveals drug movement in the body
Tracking targeted drug delivery is often a challenge due to limitations in the current imaging techniques. A recent study reports a breakthrough imaging technique that allows direct and highly sensitive tracking of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) inside the body. This novel technique, which uses neutron activation of gold, could revolutionize cancer drug delivery by enabling real-time visualization of the gold nanoparticles without external tracers.
Gene related to human kidney disease linked to touch in sea anemones
A new article expands our understanding of sensory neurons in the tentacles of sea anemones, linking them to kidney disease in humans through a common gene.
Cells 'speed date' to find their neighbors when forming tissues
In developing hearts, cells shuffle around, bumping into each other to find their place, and the stakes are high: pairing with the wrong cell could mean the difference between a beating heart and one that falters. A study demonstrates how heart cells go about this 'matchmaking' process. The researchers model the intricate movements of these cells and predict how genetic variations could disrupt the heart development process in fruit flies.
Food insecurity today, heart disease tomorrow?
Struggling to afford food today could mean heart problems tomorrow. Young adults experiencing food insecurity have a 41% greater risk of developing heart disease in midlife, even after accounting for demographic and socioeconomic factors, according to a new study. Food insecurity -- struggling to get enough nutritious food to stay healthy -- affects one in eight households in the U.S. each year.
Hepatic stellate cells control liver function and regeneration
Until now, doctors knew hepatic stellate cells mainly as drivers of liver fibrosis. The actual functions of this cell type have hardly been studied to date. Researchers have now determined that hepatic stellate cells control liver metabolism as well as liver regeneration and size. The results of the study could contribute to new therapeutic approaches for liver diseases.
Scientists create a type of catalog, the 'colocatome,' of non-cancerous cells' influence on cancer
Scientists are using artificial intelligence to better capture how healthy cells surrounding tumors influence cancer cell behavior and how those interactions can inform treatments.
Medical infusion bags can release microplastics
Microplastics have been found almost everywhere that scientists have looked for them. Now these bits of plastic -- from 1 to 62 micrometers long -- have been found in the filtered solutions used for medical intravenous (IV) infusions. The researchers estimate that thousands of plastic particles could be delivered directly to a person's bloodstream from a single 8.4-ounce (250-milliliter) bag of infusion fluid.
Drug building blocks pave path to new sepsis treatments
The immune system typically can ramp up the body's defenses to clear out an invading threat without issue. Glitches can happen, however, with sepsis occurring when the mustered army of cells also attacks the body's own tissues and organs as if they were enemy combatants. Sepsis is dangerous, particularly when it isn't treated early, and it can lead to the even more deadly condition of septic shock -- a massive drop in blood pressure that can quickly damage organs by starving them of nutrients. Scientists demonstrate the promise of a new approach to uncovering potential treatments for sepsis.
More than marks: How wellbeing shapes academic success
A world first* study of more than 215,000 students, researchers found that while standardized tests measure academic skills, different dimensions of wellbeing -- emotional wellbeing, engagement, and learning readiness -- can play a crucial role in performance.
Breakthrough in next-generation polio vaccines
A more affordable, lower-risk polio vaccine is on the horizon, research has found.
Exercise reduced falls in elderly women with polypharmacy
An exercise intervention aimed at elderly women was successful at reducing falls, especially among those with polypharmacy, a new study shows.
Beneficial genetic changes observed in regular blood donors
Researchers have identified genetic changes in blood stem cells from frequent blood donors that support the production of new, non-cancerous cells. Understanding the differences in the mutations that accumulate in our blood stem cells as we age is important to understand how and why blood cancers develop and hopefully how to intervene before the onset of clinical symptoms.
A new study has found that targeted psychological interventions can significantly enhance long-term resistance to misinformation. Dubbed 'psychological booster shots,' these interventions improve memory retention and help individuals recognize and resist misleading information more effectively over time.
Nwd1 gene deletion triggers MASH-like pathology in mice
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a polygenic disorder influenced by multiple genes, but their specific roles in the progression of disease remain unknown. To address this gap, researchers conducted a series of experiments that identified the NACHT and WD repeat domain-containing protein 1 (Nwd1) gene and its role in liver pathogenesis. This breakthrough represents an important step toward establishing new therapeutic targets for MASH.
Microplastics could be fueling antibiotic resistance
Researchers were shocked to see that bacteria's antimicrobial resistance is strengthened when exposed to plastic particles and point to a potential outsized impact on refugees.
Blood test shows promise for early detection of dementia
For people with a certain sleep disorder, a simple blood test could help predict the development of dementia years before symptoms appear, a new study indicates. Idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) causes people to physically act out their dreams while sleeping. The disorder is also associated with a very high risk of Parkinson's disease and a related condition called Dementia with Lewy Bodies. This is a form of dementia that often causes memory and cognitive loss, as well as vivid visual hallucinations and movement difficulties similar to Parkinson's.
Good parenting helps, but has limits under major deprivation
Parenting skills can make a big difference in fostering a newborn's language acquisition and cognition, but there may be a limit to how far parenting can go to make up the challenges to developing this skill in those born in highly disadvantaged backgrounds.
New method uses DNA barcodes for high throughput RNA and protein detection in deep tissue
An innovative new technique uses a novel DNA barcode system to track hundreds of RNA and protein molecules in single cells within thick biological samples, providing researchers with a full picture of how these structures are organized inside tissues.
New tech for managing type 1 diabetes is effective for older adults
New research suggests that automated insulin delivery (AID) systems are safe and effective for use by older adults with type 1 diabetes. The findings counter common assumptions that older adults would struggle to use the more advanced technology employed in the medical devices.
Prostate cancer is not a death knell, study shows
Prostate cancer statistics can look scary: 34,250 U.S. deaths in 2024. 1.4 million new cases worldwide in 2022.
Study pinpoints the impact of prenatal stress across 27 weeks of pregnancy
Researchers found new insights on the timing of prenatal stress and its effect on infant stress reactivity and temperament -- including differences between genders.
Genetic mutations linked to toxin exposure found in firefighters' brain tumors
In a study comparing the glioma tumors of firefighters and non-fighters, researchers found a mutational signature tied to exposure to haloalkanes, which are used in flame retardants, fire extinguishers, and pesticides.
New research explores how AI can build trust in knowledge work
In a new study, researchers explored how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance performance and trust in knowledge work environments. They found that when AI systems provided feedback in real-time, performance and trust increased.
Compound found in common herbs inspires potential anti-inflammatory drug for Alzheimer's disease
The herb rosemary has long been linked with memory: 'There's rosemary, that's for remembrance,' says Ophelia in Shakespeare's Hamlet. So it is fitting that researchers would study a compound found in rosemary and sage -- carnosic acid -- for its impact on Alzheimer's disease. In the disease, which is the leading cause of dementia and the sixth leading cause of death in the US, inflammation is one component that often leads to cognitive decline. Carnosic acid is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that works by activating enzymes that make up the body's natural defense system. While pure carnosic acid is too unstable to be used as a drug, scientists have now synthesized a stable form, diAcCA. This compound is fully converted to carnosic acid in the gut before being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Genes combined with immune response to Epstein-Barr virus increase MS risk
In multiple sclerosis (MS), antibodies to the common Epstein-Barr virus can accidentally attack a protein in the brain and spinal cord. New research shows that the combination of certain viral antibodies and genetic risk factors can be linked to a greatly increased risk of MS.
Robotic helper making mistakes? Just nudge it in the right direction
MIT researchers developed a framework that lets a user correct a robot's behavior during deployment using simple interactions, such as by pointing to an item, tracing a trajectory, or nudging the robot's arm.
Bad sleep harms old-age memory by disrupting the brain's 'waste removal system'
Poor sleep among older adults is linked to disruptions in the brain's 'waste removal system', according to researchers. A recent study offers valuable insight into how sleep quality impacts brain functioning.
Receiving low-glucose alerts improves diabetic drivers' safety on the road
A Japanese study has found that the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, equipped with sensors that alert diabetics when their blood sugar levels drop, can potentially make diabetic drivers safer on the road. Those who used the devices had lower incidences of low blood sugar and reported increased confidence in driving.
Decoding the neural basis of affective empathy: How the brain feels others' pain
A research team has uncovered key insights into how the brain processes others' distress. Using miniature endoscopic calcium imaging, the researchers identified specific neural ensembles in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) that encode empathic freezing, a behavioral response in which an observer reacts with fear when witnessing distress in others.
AI tool to make genetic research more comprehensive
Researchers have developed PhyloFrame, a machine-learning tool that uses artificial intelligence to account for ancestral diversity in genetic data.
Humans have a long way to go in understanding a dog's emotions
New research has revealed that people often do not perceive the true meaning of their pet's emotions and can misread their dog. The reasons for this are many and include a human misunderstanding of dog expressions due to a bias towards projecting human emotions onto our pets.
Tuberculosis relies on protective genes during airborne transmission
Scientists discovered genes in the tuberculosis bacterium that becomes essential for the pathogen's survival when it's exposed to air through coughing. These genes could be targets for new therapies that simultaneously treat infection and prevent transmission.
AI-based math: Individualized support for schoolchildren
Researchers have developed an AI-based learning system that recognizes strengths and weaknesses in mathematics by tracking eye movements with a webcam to generate problem-solving hints. This enables teachers to provide significantly more children with individualized support.
Researchers shed new light on G-quadruplexes, a type of secondary DNA structure that has attracted attention as a potential therapeutic target in cancer.
Worldwide study finds high rates of depression and anxiety in people with chronic pain
A novel analysis of more than 375 published studies concluded that the association between chronic pain and rates of depression and anxiety is staggering. The study found that 40% of adults with chronic pain experienced 'clinically significant depression and anxiety.' Among those most at risk, the analysis showed, were women, younger adults and people with fibromyalgia.
Limiting screen time protects children's mental health
A recent study suggests that limiting screen time and promoting physical activity from childhood may help safeguard mental health in adolescence. The findings are particularly significant given that mental health problems affect up to 30% of young people and pose a growing societal challenge.
A new study suggests that chronic stress and an unhealthy diet may work together to fuel the early development of pancreatic cancer, shedding light on how lifestyle factors contribute to one of the deadliest malignancies.
Intranasal herpes infection may produce neurobehavioral symptoms
A study finds that herpes infection through the nose can lead to anxiety, motor impairment and cognitive issues. The research shows that by exploiting a cellular enzyme, the virus can produce behavioral symptoms. The finding emphasizes the need for prevention and treatment of a virus carried by billions of people worldwide.
Is red wine a healthier choice than white wine? Uncorking the cancer risks
Researchers have conducted a study that scours 'the vast and often contradictory literature on the carcinogenicity of red and white wine' to assess whether this assumption holds up, and to compare the cancer risks associated with wine type.
FLIpping the Switch: Boosting stem cell numbers for therapies
A single molecular switch is essential for blood stem cells to enter an activated, regenerative state in which they produce new blood cells, according to a preclinical study. The discovery could lead to more effective bone marrow transplants and gene therapies.
New CAR-T cell therapy shows promise for hard-to-treat cancers
Researchers have successfully developed a supercharged iteration of CAR-T cell therapy that can enhance the effectiveness and longevity of the cells, particularly against cancer cells that are harder for prior CAR-T therapies to detect and fight.
Clinical trial tests novel stem-cell treatment for Parkinson's disease
A recently launched Phase 1 clinical trial is examining the safety and feasibility of a groundbreaking treatment approach for Parkinson's disease in which a patient's stem cells are reprogrammed to replace dopamine cells in the brain. The clinical trial, based on more than three decades of research, has treated three-of-six participants who will be tracked for more than a year.
Levels of select vitamins and minerals in pregnancy may be linked to lower midlife BP risk
Higher levels of the minerals copper and manganese in pregnant women were associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of developing high blood pressure decades later, according to a long-term study.
Breakthrough cardiac regeneration research offers hope for the treatment of ischemic heart failure
The discovery of a novel approach to promote cardiomyocyte proliferation offers new hope for the treatment of ischemic heart failure.
Ammonia build-up kills liver cells but can be prevented using existing drug
High levels of ammonia kill liver cells by damaging the mitochondria that power the cells. But this can be prevented using an existing drug due to start clinical trials, finds a new study in mice.
Large study of dietary habits suggests more plant oils, less butter could lead to better health
Researchers investigated data from over 200,000 individuals who were followed for more than 30 years, and found that higher intake of plant-based oils, especially soybean, canola, and olive oil, was associated with lower total, cancer, and cardiovascular disease mortality, whereas butter intake was associated with increased risk of total and cancer mortality. The researchers also found that less than a tablespoon of butter per day with equivalent calories of plant-based oils could likely lower cancer deaths and overall mortality by 17%.
At-home brain speed tests bridge cognitive data gaps
Online tests of women's reaction times offer insights into cognitive function and could help fill data gaps on early cognitive problems, potentially shedding light on dementia development later in life, finds a new study.
Researchers create gel that can self-heal like human skin
Until now, artificial gels have either managed to replicate high stiffness or natural skin's self-healing properties, but not both. Now, a team of researchers has developed a hydrogel with a unique structure that overcomes earlier limitations, opening the door to applications such as drug delivery, wound healing, soft robotics sensors and artificial skin.
Drug more than doubles survival time for glioblastoma patients
Researchers have developed a drug shown to significantly extend survival time for patients with glioblastoma, the most common primary brain tumor in adults, according to results of a new trial.
Uncovering dementia's environmental triggers
A new study focuses on the powerful role our surroundings play in shaping dementia risk.
Improving school readiness for children with low birth weight
School readiness not only impacts kids' academic success, but also their long-term economic and health outcomes. Unfortunately, research reveals a concerning gap in school readiness for children with low birth weight, with only one-third of these children being on track. A new study identifies five key protective factors that can support children, especially those with low birth weight, in reaching developmental milestones that are critical to school readiness.
An aerosol test for airborne bird flu
Recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (also known as bird flu) have created a need for rapid and sensitive detection methods to mitigate its spread. Now, researchers have developed a prototype sensor that detects a type of influenza virus that causes bird flu (H5N1) in air samples. The low-cost handheld sensor detects the virus at levels below an infectious dose and could lead to rapid aerosol testing for airborne avian influenza.
GIFs helping footballers to sleep better
A recent study has found that short animations known as GIFs (Graphic Interchange Format) can improve the sleep of professional female footballers.