A clinical trial using DIALIVE, a novel liver dialysis device, demonstrated significant improvements in all main underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Treatment resulted in accelerated resolution of ACLF and sustained improvement in biomarkers.
A UC Irvine-led study found that Medicaid telemedicine coverage led to a 6% increase in telemedicine use and an 11% increase in consistent access to necessary care. Private policies did not have such an association, highlighting the positive impact of Medicaid telemedicine coverage.
Researchers at the National Human Genome Research Institute identified a potential treatment for disabling pansclerotic morphea, a severe inflammatory disease. They found that patients with the disorder have an overactive STAT4 protein and significantly improved symptoms with ruxolitinib, a JAK inhibitor.
A study published in Brain Behavior and Immunity found autoantibodies against a synaptic adhesion protein, neurexin 1α, in patients with schizophrenia. In mice, these autoantibodies caused schizophrenia-related changes, including reduced social behavior and cognitive function.
Researchers found that tiger reserves in India receive additional resources, resulting in reduced deforestation and avoided carbon emissions. This led to the saving of over 5,800 hectares of forest and net avoided emissions of about 1.08 million tons of CO2 equivalent.
Research finds that Massachusetts' policy mandating reporting to child protective services for prenatal opioid use disorder (MOUD) exposure can be stigmatizing and lead to medical decision-making changes. The study calls for changing the law to uncouple treatment decisions from mandated reporting during the perinatal period.
Researchers have identified opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) as a promising new target for enhancing lipid oxidation. Studies in rodents and human subjects suggest that OGFr boosts lipid metabolism, improving thermogenesis and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
The study reveals the life cycles of four Lonomia Walker species, characterized by unique morphological features. New parasitoids and host plants have also been discovered, shedding light on the complex relationships within this genus.
Researchers used the NIRISS instrument on the James Webb Space Telescope to create a temperature map of the exoplanet WASP-18 b, revealing a huge temperature change from day to night sides. Water vapor was also detected in the atmosphere at various elevations.
Researchers developed an AI system, Geneformer, to predict how disruptions in human gene connections cause disease. The model, trained on data from thousands of genes, can identify potential drug targets for diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Research found that low oxygen levels in infants due to sleep apnea can lead to dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, resulting in high blood pressure. The study's findings may contribute to the development of novel therapies for patients with hypertension who do not respond well to treatment.
A study of almost 65,000 children aged up to 5 found that nearly 27% are infected with malaria, with older under-five children and those from large families or rural areas being most vulnerable. Insecticide-treated bed nets and improved housing are promising means to prevent malaria infection among children.
Leaders of research funding agencies from four countries discussed initiatives to promote equality and inclusion in academia. FAPESP's quota system has increased diversity among USP students, while UKRI emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in driving research forward.
A Vanderbilt study found that enhanced treatment support doubles the odds of quitting among fast nicotine metabolizers. Providing personalized coaching on nicotine replacement therapy reduces the abstinence disparity with slow metabolizers.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that elevated levels of two protein biomarkers associated with heart damage were linked to undetected or symptomless cardiovascular disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed health information and blood samples from over 10,300 adults and foun...
A Washington State University-led study reveals that plants can distinguish between touch and release by sending slow waves of calcium signals when touched and rapid waves when released. The researchers used specially bred plants with calcium sensors to detect these changes, providing new insights into plant sensitivity.
Researchers have developed a fully photostable and photoswitchable nanoparticle that can be controlled indefinitely using near-infrared light. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize fields such as optical memory, super-resolution microscopy, and bioimaging.
A team of researchers found that a small population of nerve cells exists in everyone that could be coaxed to regrow, potentially restoring sight and movement. The discovery provides new insights into how axons grow and could lead to effective therapies for blindness, paralysis, and other disorders caused by nerve damage.
Research estimates that continental landmasses have absorbed 23.8 x 10^21 Joules of heat between 1960 and 2020, with most stored up to 300m deep in the earth. This increase poses risks to ecosystems and food security due to associated warming and changes in water quality.
Only 16 US states provide free, detailed, and updated suicide data from their prison systems, but many others have incomplete, sparse, or no data at all. This lack of transparency is in violation of the Death in Custody Reporting Act.
A new study in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease examines the effects of environmental enrichment on AD symptom progression and pathology. The researchers found that living in an enriched environment improved several measures of metabolism and reduced individual behaviors, which became more similar and rigid as the disease progressed.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the disproportionate burden of cardiovascular disease on AI/AN women. The study reveals that more than 60% of these women have suboptimal heart health when pregnant, increasing their risk of heart disease later in life.
A new study from the University of Waterloo highlights four strategies to enhance equity and justice in climate action planning: modifying strategies, designing collaborative spaces, addressing gaps between words and actions, and considering underlying social processes. By prioritizing vulnerable populations and local actors, urban gov...
The study reveals the formation mechanism of a boundary lubrication film on the grinding interface, which reduces abrasive grain/workpiece contact area. Carbon group nanoparticles further enhance tribological performances, with reduced tangential grinding forces of 8.5-14.1%.
A special issue of Health Equity journal explores ways to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare for veterans. Research highlights successful initiatives, such as a biweekly Diversity Equity and Inclusion Working Group meeting, and a 5-fold increase in women Veteran enrollment in the VA Million Veteran Program.
The DOE's Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program supports Zap Energy's sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology, a promising approach to fusion energy. With $5 million in funding, Zap aims to develop a grid-ready power source and engage with local communities.
Researchers presented findings on pembrolizumab for brain metastases, virtual mind-body interventions for post-treatment survival, and dynamic HER2-low status in triple negative breast cancer. The studies aim to improve treatments and outcomes for patients with cancer.
The SWOG Cancer Research Network will present 30 abstracts at the ASCO 2023 annual meeting, highlighting primary results from trials S1011, S1826, S1714, and S1929. Additionally, analysis from the S1609 DART trial will be shared publicly during the meeting.
A new study found that male infants make 10% more utterances in the first year compared to females, but this difference switches direction by the second year. The researchers suggest that male infants may have an evolutionary advantage due to their higher mortality rate in the first year.
A recent study has demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of a liver dialysis device in treating acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). The device, DIALIVE, was associated with significant improvements in symptoms and organ function compared to standard care.
Research shows that corn takes up about 67% of its nitrogen naturally from soil, rather than fertilizer. However, applying different forms and timing of fertilizers can improve efficiency, with nitrate being the most efficient source. Banding placement was also found to be more efficient than broadcasting.
Researchers have developed a simplified method to assess the synchronization properties of the body clock with internal and external rhythms. The study demonstrated that phase response curves can be assessed from a single measurement, revealing varying responses depending on tissue type.
A large study tracked CIPN in over 1,100 breast cancer patients treated with taxanes, showing persistent sensory and motor symptoms with more severe symptoms with paclitaxel than docetaxel. The study defines a risk prediction model to help doctors individualize patient care.
Research reveals nearly 75% of respondents had a high connection to nature, but retirees and university students had lower rates. Increasing passive exposure and accessibility can help time-poor individuals engage with nature.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified plant-produced compounds that could help manage lethal bronzing, a deadly disease spread by a small insect. These green leaf volatiles, released by healthy palms near infected trees, can activate defense mechanisms to potentially stave off the pest.
Researchers developed a bio-sensing technology that measures PD1 ligand functionality to predict patient response to anti-PD1 therapy. This technology enables accurate prediction of patient response and tailoring treatments accordingly, improving cancer patients' lives.
A research team studied the source of hazardous March and April 2023 dust storms in China, finding that Mongolia is the main dust source affecting northern China's weather. The team used advanced models and machine learning techniques to forecast dust events, providing a reference for addressing global dust storm hazards.
Researchers used x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to study the chemical profile of tantalum surface oxides, revealing different kinds of tantalum oxides at the surface. This discovery prompted a new set of questions on modifying interfaces to improve device performance and minimizing loss.
Researchers found that centenarians have a diverse gut virome with high microbial diversity associated with a healthy gut microbiome. The study suggests that intestinal bacteria and bacterial viruses may work together to promote healthy lifespan.
A recent study analyzed the impact of vulnerable friendships on Chinese adolescents' social networks, finding that befriending a victimized peer can decrease depressive symptoms but increase victimization. Classroom supportive norms play a crucial role in mitigating these effects.
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and can spread the virus to other cats and their environment. The infected cats' environments were also found to be infectious, but this infectiousness decays rapidly.
A study in Pakistan found that coworkers who date report being ostracized and sabotaged by colleagues. Romantic relationships can impact work performance and job satisfaction.
A special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine explores the treatment and management of cerebral palsy, including spasticity management and pain relief. The articles discuss various approaches to managing spasticity, such as enteral baclofen use and botulinum neurotoxinA injections, aiming to improve care and quali...
A Swiss study found that 17% of unvaccinated individuals did not return to normal health and 18% reported COVID-19 related symptoms 24 months after infection. The study aimed to address uncertainty about long-term treatment and support for post-COVID-19 condition.
In the absence of visual landmarks, desert ants build higher nest hills to facilitate homing of foraging nest mates. This study reveals that artificial landmarks can replace natural ones, highlighting the ants' remarkable navigation abilities.
A UC Irvine-led interdisciplinary team highlights a dispute between physiologists and epidemiologists about the role of humidity in heat stress. The authors argue that humid conditions exacerbate heat-related illnesses, particularly in tropical nations, and call for more accurate models to predict future health impacts.
A recent study published in GeroScience found that a moderate-protein diet (25% and 35%) improved metabolic health in both young and middle-aged mice. The researchers also observed reduced blood glucose concentrations and lipid levels in liver and plasma. A balanced diet with moderate protein intake may promote metabolic health in huma...
A study found that LGBTQ+ and feminist activists support adding a gender-neutral 'X' marker to state IDs, as well as removing sex and gender markers altogether. The study also revealed that conservative gender activists are unlikely to support these changes, citing medical and safety concerns.
EPFL scientists develop a novel concept, called the active 'plasmacoustic metalayer', which can be controlled to cancel out noise. The device is more compact than conventional solutions, absorbing 100% of incoming sound intensity and offering tunable acoustic reflection over a broad bandwidth.
A new study from the University of Kansas shows that neighborhood characteristics such as being predominantly Black and having families with children are strongly associated with higher eviction rates. In contrast, gentrified neighborhoods or those with high rents do not predict increased eviction levels.
A new study found that sixty percent of Canadians maintained or improved their lifestyle habits during the pandemic, while forty percent adopted less healthy behaviors. Researchers identified certain groups, including those with body image issues and stress, as more likely to adopt unhealthy habits.
Researchers discovered that oxalic acid helps create a sticky, gel-like extracellular matrix in fungi and bacteria. The more oxalic acid present, the more viscous the matrix becomes, allowing microbes to control nutrient uptake and resistance to antibiotics.
Reduced emissions during the pandemic led to decreased concentrations of short-lived cooling particles, but not greenhouse gases. This resulted in stronger climate warming due to the 'masking effect' being lifted. The study suggests a complete transition to renewable energy could lead to rapid 'unmasking' of aerosols.
Researchers from the University of Queensland have successfully grown native wild tobacco plants as 'biofactories' to produce large quantities of drugs. The method uses modern molecular biology techniques to instruct plant cells to produce desired molecules, resulting in a more cost-effective and sustainable production process.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that COVID-19 lockdowns led to less accurate recollections of event timing, particularly for events in 2021. Participants who struggled with timeline accuracy also exhibited higher levels of depression, anxiety, and lower resilience.
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have created a new method of 3D printing that uses near-infrared (NIR) light to create complex structures with multiple materials and colors. This breakthrough allows for the integration of different materials and properties, opening up possibilities for industries such as health and electronics.
A study found that countries offering tax breaks for corporate innovation see greater economic growth in capital investment and highly compensated jobs. However, the impact on hiring or overall compensation is limited, with increased average pay for research and development workers instead.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a novel method for creating CO2 capture filters using 3D printing. The filters, made from a hydrogel material infused with the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, captured 24% of CO2 in a gas mixture and retained 52% of its performance after over 1,000 hours. This technology has potential applic...
A team of cognitive scientists created a computational model to understand the factors affecting decision-making and planning depth. They found that better planning is driven by the ability to recognize patterns more accurately and in less time, pointing to the benefits of practice and experience.
Researchers have developed a color-changing material that can detect when medications get too warm, with tunable melting points to track temperatures from -94 to +99 degrees Fahrenheit. This innovative system has the potential to reduce electronic waste and improve medical cold supply chains.
A retrospective case-matched study found prism adaptation therapy (PAT) to be beneficial for treating both right- and left-sided spatial neglect. PAT showed improvements in neglect symptoms for patients with right-sided neglect, suggesting greater potential benefits compared to those with left-sided neglect.
Funding agencies emphasized the need for reciprocal collaborations, equal access to research data, and clear intellectual property standards. The discussion aimed to promote responsible internationalization and address concerns about politics and security issues among countries.
A WVU researcher is developing a data-driven approach to enhance roadway maintenance operations, incorporating AI analysis of real-time data from sensors on consumer cars and roadside observation stations. The goal is to minimize time and resources spent on less affected roadways, reducing winter maintenance costs and time.
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that nearly two-thirds of grocery store flyers in Sweden feature unhealthy foods. The analysis of weekly flyers from 122 stores revealed that high-sugar foods and drinks were the most common category, contradicting Nordic Nutrition Recommendations.
A new study finds that placing discounted products next to regularly priced items can have both negative and positive effects on demand for other products. The Negative Proximity Effect decreases the sales of proximal products, while the Positive Proximity Effect increases their sales.
The study found that people younger than age 50 with colorectal cancer had lower levels of citrate and differed in protein and carbohydrate metabolism compared to older patients. Red meat consumption and sugar intake are potential risk factors for young-onset colorectal cancer. Higher levels of 4-hydroxyhippuric acid correlated with im...
Researchers have pinpointed a previously hidden whole genome duplication in the common ancestor of sturgeons and paddlefish, which may have provided genetic variations that helped these species survive mass extinctions. The discovery suggests that there may be many more overlooked whole genome duplications in other species before perio...
The team uses a continuous-wave laser to create ultrashort electron pulses, allowing for attosecond time resolution. They investigate nanophotonic phenomena and film electromagnetic processes inside waveguide materials, opening up new developments in photonic integrated circuits and metamaterials.
A study analyzing real-world truck collisions found that anti-drowsiness alarms need to go beyond eye monitoring to consider other microsleep behaviors. The researchers reviewed 3,120 seconds of dashcam footage and identified key signs of microsleeps, including body relaxation and abnormal vehicle behavior.
A recent study published in Classroom Discourse found that the use of epistemic stance markers like 'ne' in third-turn repeats can curtail student responses and limit inclusive learning. The researchers argue that this practice can create a negative impact on student involvement and learning.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that heart attacks are associated with a faster decline in cognitive function over time. The research analyzed data from six large studies and showed that individuals who had a heart attack experienced a decline in global cognition equivalent to about six to 13 years of aging.
A new study reveals that over 80% of people who inject drugs in New York City test positive for fentanyl, but only 18% intend to take it intentionally. The research suggests that widespread use of fentanyl among this population may be driving overdose risk and tolerance development.
Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology have made a breakthrough in creating ultra-photostable avalanching nanoparticles that can perform unlimited photoswitching. This achievement has significant implications for fields like optical probes, 3D optical memory, and super-resolution microscopy.
A Monash University study found that the shape of a person's brain, rather than its complex connections, plays a crucial role in how we think, feel, and behave. The research used magnetic resonance imaging to identify eigenmodes, natural patterns of vibration, which are influenced by the brain's structural properties.
Researchers discovered that ZC3H11A is essential for regulating metabolic genes in embryos and their absence leads to complete lethality. The study's findings suggest that ZC3 may be a promising therapeutic target for the development of anti-viral agents against medically significant human viruses.
A new study published in Science Advances found that protecting large ocean areas does not curb fishing catches, debunking the argument made by the Mexican fishing industry. The Revillagigedo National Park, established in 2017, has had no negative effect on the Mexican industrial fleet's catches.
Researchers have created an open-source, reproducible analysis platform for pediatric brain tumors, providing a cloud-based resource for comprehensive data on the disease. The platform contains genomic and clinical data from over 1,000 pediatric brain tumors and 22 patient-derived cell lines.
Researchers from the University of Arkansas found that organic sweetpotato growers can improve yields by selecting top-performing cultivars and using winter cover crops. The study also showed benefits for conventional production systems, as limited herbicides are available for weed management in sweetpotatoes.
Research identifies Indian Hedgehog protein as a key driver of chronic kidney disease and heart damage, offering new hope for treatments. The findings suggest that blocking the protein's actions could improve kidney function and reduce cardiovascular risk.
A new study published in Neurology found an association between sleep apnea and reduced brain volume, particularly in the medial temporal lobe area of the brain. People with amyloid plaques who had more severe sleep apneas were also more likely to have lower brain volumes, suggesting loss of brain cells.
Researchers successfully detect X-ray signature of individual atoms, enabling the identification of materials at an atomic level. The breakthrough technique has potential applications in environmental and medical sciences, as well as advancing technology.
A new study published in PeerJ Life & Environment reveals that several distinct spinosaur groups inhabited Cretaceous Britain. The analysis of a British spinosaur tooth shows that these groups did not all live at the same time, but rather inhabited the region over more than 15 million years.
Researchers found that selectively targeting large-scale drug vendors on the dark web leads to a significant decrease in transaction volume and the number of remaining vendors. Small vendors were most deterred, while those selling dangerous drugs were more deterred relative to less dangerous ones.
A new study reveals the molecular structure of UCP1, allowing scientists to develop therapeutics that activate it to burn excess calories. This breakthrough could combat obesity and related diseases like diabetes by activating brown fat tissue.
Researchers have unlocked insights into how brown fat tissue can be harnessed to combat obesity and remove glucose from the blood. The study used a cryogenic electron microscope to view mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 in atomic detail, revealing potential new ways to promote weight loss.
Researchers have developed a novel hand cleansing product, Tab Soap, in dispenser roll or tear-off formats, increasing accessibility and popularity of hand cleansing worldwide. The project was supported by the FCDO and CLEAR consortium, aiming to make this innovation available at scale.
Researchers found rising UV radiation levels in the tropics and northern mid-latitudes after 2010, posing risks to human health and the environment. The ozone layer is taking longer than expected to recover from depletion, leading to higher surface UV radiation.
Scientists from Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a new immuno-therapeutic approach using twin stem cells that can target brain metastatic melanomas. The therapy, which uses an engineered 'twin stem cell model,' activates the immune system to suppress tumor growth and prolong survival in representative preclinical models.
A Rutgers-led genetic analysis reveals that Atlantic cod evolved new traits in response to decades of overfishing, with the fish potentially rebounding and providing a sustainable food source. The study shows that small changes in many genes led to the evolutionary adaptation.
Scientists at Tohoku University discovered a novel approach to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade and minimize associated side effects. Targeting tumor-positive lymph nodes with ICIs generates a robust anti-tumor response against local and systemic metastases.
A study found that children are more curious than great apes, opting for an unknown option over a certain reward. After being shown the larger potential reward of the uncertain option, apes quickly learned to investigate and choose the opaque cup with the better outcome.
A UNIGE team has identified how the influenza A virus manages to penetrate cells to infect them by hijacking the iron transport mechanism. By blocking this receptor, researchers were able to significantly reduce its ability to invade cells, highlighting a potential strategy for treating influenza virus infections.
A University of Houston study explores why Hispanic individuals experience higher levels of loneliness and its link to hazardous drinking in the US. The research aims to identify predictors of loneliness and provide insights into developing targeted interventions to improve health outcomes among Hispanic communities.
A previously unidentified marine reptile fossil from Svalbard has been classified using X-ray analysis, providing unique insights into ancient life in the Norwegian archipelago. The study's findings suggest that fossils from this formation are particularly well-suited for radiographic imaging due to the presence of sulfur minerals.
Late-onset cognitive impairment emerged in adult childhood cancer survivors decades after diagnosis and treatment. Modifiable health behaviors and chronic health conditions significantly increase this risk.
A study from the National University of Singapore predicts that obesity will be the main metabolic risk factor underlying acute myocardial infarction (AMI) onset and AMI-related deaths by 2050. By then, overweight/obesity related AMI-mortality is expected to increase four-fold, with Malays facing a five-fold rise.
Researchers have created a detailed map of the geology beneath Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica, showing that only about a fifth of the ground is sedimentary rock. This finding could affect how the glacier behaves as it retreats due to climate change, with potential implications for ice flow and loss from other glaciers.
A study by the University of Bonn found that providing health information increases whole grain consumption, but the effect is modest. Despite receiving daily information for two weeks, participants showed a significant increase in consuming whole grains only four weeks later.
The study assesses and quantifies safety and justice for humanity on Earth, finding that numerous boundaries are already transgressed. The results conclude that a just approach is essential to planetary stability, and setting targets can prevent significant harm.
Researchers at NIMS developed an artificial zinc coating that prevents electrochemical deactivation in magnesium metal anodes, even in dry air. This breakthrough could enable the production of rechargeable magnesium batteries using existing lithium-ion battery lines.
Researchers at Leibniz-HKI have confirmed experimentally that bacteria use electrons from hydrogen to produce organic compounds. This breakthrough could make microbial electrosynthesis (MES) a commercially viable technology, producing ethanol and other fuels while storing excess electricity. The study optimized the process for high yie...
A study of 4,260 adults found that smoking cessation was associated with improved anxiety and depression outcomes. Sustained cessation for at least 15 weeks showed promise as a strategy for improving mental health in this population.
Researchers surveyed medical staff at a large Japanese children's hospital about their experiences with full-time hospital facility dogs, finding that they improve terminal care and patient cooperation. The study also reveals that HFDs help staff manage workload and encourage children to express themselves more.
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers finds that sucralose-6-acetate, a chemical formed when we digest sucralose, is genotoxic and breaks up DNA. The chemical is also present in trace amounts in the sweetener itself, posing potential health risks.
A study by Anne Jacqueminet and colleagues identifies three favorable patterns for positive media coverage: congruent signalers, balancing signalers, and firms using a combination of less credible signals. Highly credible third-party signals play a complex role in media perception, delivering a single congruent message.
Researchers found specific bacterial species significantly associated with the development of tubular adenomas and sessile serrated adenomas. The study suggests a potential opportunity to intervene through diet or probiotics to prevent colorectal cancer.
Researchers have developed strong and ductile titanium alloys by integrating alloy and 3D-printing process designs, enabling new sustainable applications in aerospace, biomedical, and energy technologies. The breakthrough utilizes circular economy thinking to produce alloys from industrial waste and low-grade materials.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan found that a low-carb breakfast can significantly reduce blood sugar swings and improve glucose control. Participants who followed a low-carb breakfast plan showed lower glycemic variability and some were able to reduce their glucose-lowering medication.
The study improves the assessment of catastrophic failures in sealed cabins for ultra large manned spacecraft in M/OD environments. The authors develop a failure assessment module and establish perforation and crack equations for stuffed Whipple shields, providing a reference for designing and assessing long-term on-orbit missions.
Researchers have uncovered a previously unknown process in marine phytoplankton that accounts for between 7% to 25% of all oxygen produced and carbon fixed in the ocean. This discovery sheds light on how tiny organisms contribute to global oxygen production, with potential implications for our understanding of evolution.
A team of researchers at Lancaster University developed accessible ways to communicate sustainability research using fairy tale characters. The 'Telling Tales' project aims to make complicated arguments more engaging and understandable for policymakers and the public.
Researchers have discovered a bacterial protein that can separate rare earth elements more efficiently and effectively than current methods. The protein uses a unique dimerization mechanism to distinguish between similar metals, paving the way for greener mining and recycling practices.
A new concept and assessment framework called 'human functioning' can revolutionize how we measure and achieve well-being, providing a more complete understanding of human health. By recognizing functioning as the third major health indicator, policymakers can inform and guide public policy to enhance societal welfare.