A monthly injection has helped 90% of severe asthma patients reduce their reliance on daily steroid tablets. Treatment with tezepelumab improved asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall quality of life, with two-thirds of patients experiencing no asthma attacks.
A new phase 3b clinical trial found that nearly 90% of severe asthma patients were able to reduce their steroid dose to a low dose after one year of treatment with the biologic medication Tezepelumab. The treatment also significantly improved asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall quality of life, while minimizing steroid use.
A trial from Hong Kong found that tai chi is comparable to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in reducing symptoms of chronic insomnia. The study showed that tai chi was non-inferior to CBT at the 12-month follow-up, suggesting its potential as an alternative treatment approach for middle-aged and older adults.
A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that people who consume polyphenol-rich foods and drinks, such as tea, coffee, and berries, may have lower predicted cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Higher adherence to polyphenol-rich dietary patterns was associated with healthier blood pressure and cholesterol profiles.
The largest review to date found that medication for children and adults, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, are the most effective approaches for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Researchers developed an interactive website to present findings and help people with ADHD make informed treatment decisions.
A satellite deployed to measure ocean surface heights captured the first high-resolution track of a great subduction zone tsunami. The track shows an unexpectedly complex pattern of waves dispersing and scattering across the ocean basin.
A new 10-minute PET-CT scan reveals overactivity in adrenal glands, allowing for precise targeting of treatment. The test has huge potential to completely change the way high blood pressure is diagnosed and treated.
The 9th IOF Asia-Pacific Bone Health Conference will bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and shape the future of bone health across the region. The conference will feature keynote lectures, sponsored sessions, and a launch of the IOF Asia-Pacific Regional Audit 2025.
A new study found that engasertib reduced nosebleed frequency and duration in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a rare inherited bleeding disorder. The trial also showed improved symptoms and safety profile for the drug, paving the way for its potential use as a treatment option.
A new study found that acid rain can destabilize soil microbiomes, making it easier for disease-causing microbes like E. coli O157:H7 to invade and persist. The researchers discovered that acid rain accelerates the evolution of high-risk pathogens, which can lead to severe foodborne illness and increased mortality rates in animals.
Researchers have developed a promising new method to recover uranium from challenging wastewater streams using an indirect electrochemical process combined with a self-standing covalent organic framework electrode. The approach achieves high efficiency, long-term stability, and strong tolerance to chemically complex environments.
A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.
Researchers at the University of Washington successfully tracked salmon populations using airborne eDNA, finding that the airborne DNA concentration fluctuated with visual counts reported by the hatchery. The technique links air, water, and fish, providing a valuable tool for population health monitoring and management.
A study published in Neurology found that using GPS driving data can predict cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Participants who developed cognitive issues had greater reductions in driving frequency and variety over time.
A recent study by UCR found that increasing ethanol content in California gasoline from 10% to 15% significantly reduces emissions of carbon monoxide, total hydrocarbons, and non-methane hydrocarbons. Particulate emissions also drop significantly with the E15 blend.
A study published in PLOS One reveals that 8 in 10 Irish people identifying as LGBTQI+ have experienced at least one form of identity abuse. Over half have faced multiple forms of abuse within their lifetime. The Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland study highlights the need for improved support and protection for these vulnerable communities.
The UBC robotic platform helps scientists understand how the brain keeps us standing by mimicking delays in sensory feedback. By tweaking forces and adding short delays, the robot reveals that our sense of space and time work from the same playbook.
Climate-vulnerable districts in India are at risk of adverse health outcomes, including higher rates of underweight children. The study highlights the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in Indian districts.
A team of researchers from Binghamton University has created the first-ever high-resolution 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry, revealing over 1,000 moai statues. The model allows users to zoom in and pan across various features, providing a detailed look at the island's quarries and challenging previous theories about its history.
Biologists have discovered that shiny colours serve as signals for pollinators and mates, but compromise colour perception at close range. This study found that dynamic, shiny colours are more conspicuous from afar, but harder to discern in detail.
A new study found nearly one in ten young cancer patients with non-metastatic disease later develop metastatic recurrence, associated with significantly worse survival outcomes. The research highlights the need for tailored survivorship care to address unique challenges faced by young cancer survivors.
Scientists at Seoul National University create an interlaced origami structure that can be folded, rolled up for storage, and deployed with high strength. The design overcomes limitations of traditional corrugated structures, enabling multi-layer folding and smooth unwinding.
Researchers at University of Cologne identify p35-mediated CDK5 hyperactivity as a central mechanism limiting nerve regeneration in diabetes. Targeted interventions using peptides restore nerve fiber growth, leading to significant motor and sensory improvements.
A recent study in a semi-captive facility in Lao PDR showed that male Asian elephants can coexist peacefully if introduced slowly. The research with 8 unrelated males demonstrated successful socialization without significant stress, providing new insights into elephant behavior and social interaction.
A comprehensive survey of the Eastern Tropical Pacific finds that remote Marine Protected Areas support abundant and diverse shark populations, including critically endangered species, whereas coastal areas display alarming declines in predator numbers. The study highlights the importance of strict protection for marine reserves to hel...
Studies in the Tropical Eastern Pacific indicate that sharks thrive in oceanic islands' MPAs, unlike coastal areas where predatory fish are depleted. The research highlights the importance of these refuges for shark conservation.
A new study suggests that expanding seasonal immunization access could minimize off-season RSV epidemics, with higher rates of hospitalizations in urban areas compared to rural communities. Providing year-round access to RSV immunization would be more risk-averse and minimize risks of large seasonal outbreaks.
Researchers found evidence of multiple independent centers of quarrying activity and varied carving techniques, suggesting decentralized moai construction. The study's high-resolution 3D model provides new insights into the organizational processes of Rapa Nui society.
A recent study analyzed crime data from 2017 to 2023 and found links between walkable areas and theft, dense road networks and higher crime rates, as well as disparities in media coverage of different crimes. The research aims to inform efforts to improve safety and provide more accurate information to the public.
A national survey by SFU researchers found that Canadians with Long COVID identify virtual healthcare services as crucial to their care, citing benefits like reduced risk of infections and travel time. The study aims to produce a national guidebook providing recommendations on improving virtual care access for people with Long COVID.
Researchers propose six dimensions to evaluate AI reliability, including transparency, uncertainty quantification, and philosophical perspectives on trustworthiness. They emphasize the need for critical understanding of AI systems to ensure trustworthy decision-making.
The study found that federal loan restrictions will place substantial financial barriers on aspiring physicians, potentially reducing workforce diversity and worsening existing physician shortages. The researchers urge policymakers and medical schools to consider targeted solutions like loan forgiveness or tuition reduction programs.
A new method for detecting illicit drugs on surfaces uses common household items to identify both the type and quantity of substances, achieving high levels of sensitivity and selectivity. The process reduces toxic chemicals and is faster, simpler, and more environmentally sustainable than existing methods.
A German-Swiss research team found that spatial data can remarkably predict biodiversity changes over time, identifying areas under pressure. The study used unique data from 150 meadows and shows that land use intensification leads to declining biodiversity.
The study reveals a significant burden of metastatic disease in adolescents and young adults with cancer. The findings expand knowledge on metastatic recurrences, improving care for adolescent and young adult survivors.
A new study demonstrates that long-term memory is formed by a cascade of molecular timers unfolding across brain regions. Key regulators promote memories into progressively more lasting forms or demote them until they are forgotten.
A new University of Essex study found that the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) language may erode public trust in science. Using words like 'unlikely' to describe climate change risks can make scientists appear divided and predictions seem implausible, fueling scepticism.
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have developed a new way to turn textile waste into energy and high-performance cement materials. The production of alternative fuel from textile waste can reduce CO2 emissions during cement production, while also providing an innovative approach to textile waste management.
The SUN-DT project aims to drive the digital transition of tower concentrated solar power (CSP) plants in Europe. By leveraging AI-based calibration, predictive maintenance, and real-time optimization, the initiative seeks to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs for these facilities.
Over half of global coastal settlements have retreated from the coast over the past 30 years in response to intensifying climate hazards. Coastal regions in Africa and Oceania lead the retreat, while poorer regions often expand shoreline settlements due to economic needs.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen predicts that climate change could create more favorable conditions for malaria mosquitoes, exposing millions to increased risk of infection. The researchers warn that if left unchecked, this could put between 200 million and up to 1 billion people at additional risk.
Researchers found that brain regions processing visual information also contain 'maps' of the body, simulating touch sensations when watching movies. This discovery could transform our understanding of conditions like autism, as it may help explain why autistic people struggle with sensory experiences.
A cohort study found an association between GLP-1 receptor agonist use and chronic cough. Researchers are now seeking to confirm the link's existence, strength, and mechanisms.
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that streamlined surgical preference cards can significantly reduce hospital waste and improve operational efficiency. By analyzing thousands of surgeries, they identified unnecessary items and optimized lists to save up to $3 million over five months.
The prevalence of injecting methamphetamine only or both methamphetamine and opioids increased among people who inject drugs entering treatment in the US between 2012 and 2023. This trend is consistent with prior work showing increases in opioid and methamphetamine co-use before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The brain uses reusable patterns of activity across tasks to build new behaviors, snapping together 'cognitive Legos' that can be flexibly combined. This compositionality enables the brain to quickly learn new information and switch between tasks, a feature current AI models struggle with.
A study by the University of Helsinki reveals that microplastics interact with the rumen microbiome, alter fermentation processes, and are partially broken down. This interaction has significant implications for animal health, productivity, and food safety.
Biomedical researchers recommend diversifying funding sources, pursuing earlier licensing and commercialization, and fostering international collaborations. The US drug discovery landscape is at risk due to federal funding cuts, and alternative approaches are needed to ensure continued progress.
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo developed a neural-network-based 3D imaging technique that can precisely measure moving objects. The new method reconstructs high-resolution 3D shapes using only three projection patterns, enabling dynamic 3D measurement across various applications.
Researchers at Lund University analyzed old air samples collected by the Swedish Armed Forces and found that spore dispersal of northern mosses has shifted four weeks earlier over the past 35 years. Warmer autumns enable mosses to release their spores earlier in spring, with climate conditions from the previous year being the key factor.
Researchers assign a hominin foot fossil from Lucy's time to a different species, providing evidence that two ancient human ancestors coexisted in the same region. The Burtele foot belongs to A. deyiremeda, which retained an opposable big toe for climbing but likely pushed off with its second digit on two legs.
Disrupted federal funding for extramural cancer research has substantial monetary consequences, impacting states and institutions nationwide. Many grant terminations affected junior faculty and research trainees, jeopardizing career trajectories and the research workforce.
The Global Virus Network has issued a statement on the newly confirmed outbreak of Marburg virus disease in southern Ethiopia, highlighting the urgent public health, research, and surveillance imperatives. The WHO reports six laboratory-confirmed cases, including three deaths, and three probable deaths under investigation, with 206 con...
A study from the University of Seville found that patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders show significant reductions in structural similarity between different brain regions, particularly in the temporal, cingulate, and insular lobes. These alterations are associated with cognitive deficits and severe symptoms.
Prof. David Liu and Prof. Chad Mirkin receive the Harvey Prize for their pioneering work in base editing, prime editing, and structural nanomedicine. Their discoveries have led to significant contributions in treating genetic diseases and developing new diagnostic systems.
The study highlights the need for clear guidance from clinicians to support safe cannabis or cannabinoid use. Clinicians should weigh benefits against risks when engaging patients in informed discussions about these therapeutic options.
The 2025 Los Angeles wildfires led to substantial increases in acute health care utilization, particularly through virtual care-seeking. This study emphasizes the importance of monitoring healthcare preparedness and response in the face of rising climate-related disruptions.
A Chinese group has developed a single sheet of modified paper pulp that can cut oxygen levels by 99% and change color when food is spoiled. The cellulose film uses a combination of dialdehyde protein cross-linking and curcumin to kill bacteria and monitor freshness.
The collaboration enhances transparency in scholarly publishing by certifying reviewer contributions and providing rewards. Reviewers can earn redeemable credits for reviews on partner journals, promoting participation and quality in the research community.
Researchers found that pterosaurs developed flight with a smaller brain similar to non-flying dinosaurs. Advanced imaging tools were used to study the brain cavities of pterosaur fossils, revealing a larger optic lobe that may have aided in their ability to fly.
Researchers discovered a new 233-million-year-old nonflying relative of pterosaurs that provided breakthrough insights into the evolution of flight in these animals. The study found that pterosaurs evolved their own 'flight computers' from scratch, with unique brain structures and smaller brain sizes compared to birds.
A new study reveals that kinase inhibitors can accelerate the degradation of targeted proteins, which is not a rare quirk but a common mechanism. This discovery could help design better drugs that remove kinases altogether or explain unexpected effects of existing therapies.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a novel, non-toxic method to recycle mixed-fiber textiles, utilizing a deep eutectic solvent to separate and recover cotton and polyester components. The process achieves near-complete recycling with minimal damage to materials.
A new study by ESMT Berlin finds that fractional-dose vaccines can significantly reduce infections during epidemics, especially in low-resource settings. The researchers identify vaccination policies that minimize infections while accounting for limited stockpiles and administration capacity.
Researchers analyzed clips from Hollywood films to identify brain structures linking visual and tactile experiences. They discovered eight remarkably similar maps in the visual cortex, mirroring the body's organization in the somatosensory cortex.
Researchers identified a group of metabolites produced in the intestine that travel to the liver and heart, influencing metabolic pathways and insulin sensitivity. The study found that environmental factors can regulate these metabolites, which play a crucial role in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the binding between KLF1 protein and DNA in human cells, which controls gene expression and has significant implications for diseases such as cancer. The study uses new experimental methods to measure binding to many DNA sequences simultaneously in both test tubes and human cells.
Research found that most people are poor at recognizing pain in horses, but those with more experience are better equipped to identify subtle cues. Higher levels of social anxiety also influenced pain recognition, particularly in humans, highlighting the need for education and training on equine welfare.
Infants develop expectations about parental responsiveness from daily interactions, influencing their perception of the world. Consistent, calm, and supportive responses shape a sense of security, while inconsistent or distant responses lead to uncertainty. The study found that infants' preferences for responsive or unresponsive caregi...
New legislation bans online money games in India, highlighting aggressive promotional spending and addictive design features that exploit users. The study finds 450 million people lose Rs. 20,000 crores annually through online gaming, with cases of Internet Gaming Disorder and suicides reported.
A QUT-led study introduces a framework to assess the potential of different strategies to mitigate climate change through plant agriculture and synthetic biology innovations. Reducing reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers is seen as a key solution, with gigatonne-level potential for carbon mitigation.
Researchers from the University of St. Andrews have discovered how Incas used Andean balance scales and ancient string knot writing known as 'khipus' to achieve balance and harmony in their society. These scales were tied to notions of wellbeing that prioritized balance in social, economic, and moral affairs.
Researchers at HIPS and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research discovered that tolcapone interacts with LecA protein, a key component of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study identified several derivatives that inhibit LecA significantly more strongly than tolcapone.
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have developed a reconfigurable, eight-user quantum network that can distribute and teleport entanglement on demand. The system uses a shop-bought optical fibre and achieves multiplexed entanglement teleportation across multiple users.
Researchers studied the YB1 protein's cold-shock domain, finding moderate stability under physiological conditions. The domain can interact with multiple nucleic acids, facilitating quick and efficient binding, which may contribute to cancer cell resistance.
A UChicago team has developed innovative materials to create flexible OLED screens that can be used in a variety of applications, including wearables and medical devices. The new materials overcome the challenges of making aluminum stretchable and improve electron mobility.
Professor Owen Guy has received the SEMI Academia Impact Award for his outstanding contributions to semiconductor research, innovation, and industry-academia collaboration in Europe. He is Director of Swansea University's Centre for Nanohealth and a member of its Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials.
Researchers at Princeton University developed a diamond-based quantum sensor that uncovers rich new information about magnetic phenomena at the atomic scale. The technique provides key insight into materials like graphene and superconductors.
Researchers discovered that plants respond to compacted soil by thickening their roots and changing their structure, allowing them to penetrate harder. This mechanism is similar to basic engineering principles, such as a pipe's diameter and outer wall strength affecting its ability to resist buckling.
Researchers achieved hydroxyl groups esterification and lignin dissolution through a two-hour pyridine-benzoyl chloride bath. The resulting fibers became photobleaching and stable under accelerated weathering, with a 15-unit ΔE* swing and 96% plunge in tensile strength.
Mayo Clinic researchers have found several previously unknown genetic and cellular processes that occur in lung adenocarcinoma tumors responding well to immunotherapy. The study identified markers that may predict a positive response to immunotherapy, including the presence of senescent tumor cells and loss of the PRKCI gene.
Researchers explore innovative avenues for regenerating functional β-cells using stem cells and pancreatic progenitor cells. The dual approach of activating endogenous progenitors and transplanting externally differentiated cells represents a powerful, scalable strategy for T1D management.
Researchers developed soft robots inspired by manta rays, utilizing magnetic fields to move, recharge power supply, and perform tasks autonomously. The magnets stabilize electrochemical reactions in flexible batteries, enhancing performance and efficiency.
Researchers have discovered nanodomains within biomolecular condensates that aggregate FUS protein, a key regulator of cellular RNA metabolism. The movement of these nanodomain clusters can be slowed down or accelerated by applying drugs used to treat ALS, offering potential new avenues for slowing neurodegenerative disease.
A study of almost 258,000 children in Scotland found that lockdown measures during the Covid-19 pandemic were associated with an increase in developmental concerns, including speech and language skills, physical movement, and emotional growth. The proportion of children with at least one developmental concern increased by up to 6.6 per...
Researchers developed a non-invasive spinal stimulation system that bypasses the lesion site and strengthens preserved spinal circuits. This approach enables paraplegic patients to regain bilateral stepping control and improve step length and cadence.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers has identified a previously unknown gravitropism pathway in plants, which helps them orient their growth direction. This new pathway, controlled by the SLQ1 gene, works independently of the LAZY genes and may provide a backup mechanism for detecting gravity.
The study highlights the importance of seamount conservation for Cape Verde's marine ecosystem, biodiversity and socio-economic development. The research emphasizes the need for integrated conservation strategies that consider ocean waters and human uses.
A reconfigurable omnidirectional triboelectric whisker sensor array (RO-TWSA) enables multidirectional force sensing, portable deployment, and adaptive interaction across complex environments. The system combines an untethered hydro-sealing suction mechanism with a high-sensitivity MXene-enhanced triboelectric whisker structure.
A new study reveals that persistent organic pollutants accumulate in tissues of sheep and their lambs from birth, transferring to the developing fetus. Concentrations of POPs in lamb tissues averaged 30–103% of those measured in the mothers.
The study examines the global epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other motor neuron diseases (MNDs), revealing a rising global burden with significant variations across regions. Regional factors contribute to these diseases, emphasizing the need for optimized medical resources and further research.
A new concept called Weather Commons proposes a democratic approach to weather control, emphasizing collective stewardship and cooperation between local communities. The framework aims to provide a platform for civic dialogue on the role of technology in addressing extreme weather intensification.
A study found that hepatitis C treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) improves immune function in individuals co-infected with HIV and HCV, even in those with advanced liver disease. The treatment resulted in significant declines in inflammation and liver damage markers.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism behind statin-induced muscle damage, paving the way for new statins with reduced side effects. By understanding how statins interact with muscle proteins, scientists can design safer alternatives that preserve cholesterol-lowering benefits.
Researchers developed a scalable solution using a perforated Cu current collector to induce a regularly arranged micropore structure, enhancing ion diffusion and mechanical stability in SiOx/Artificial Graphite electrodes. This design improvement leads to improved electrochemical performance for fast-charging and long-life batteries.
Researchers have discovered that a mitochondrial mutation can remodel immune cell function and inflammatory signalling, leading to whole-body issues in animal models. This finding offers a plausible hypothesis for why individuals with these disorders often experience problems with multiple organs and repeated infections.
The POSTECH team proposes two innovative strategies using nanoimprint lithography to address the limitations of traditional metasurface manufacturing. The hybrid material method and particle-embedded resin method enable high-performance metasurfaces with optical efficiencies comparable to electron beam lithography, making large-scale m...
A new evidence brief highlights the need for a One Health approach in research into zoonotic disease risks globally. The study found significant knowledge gaps in understanding factors influencing zoonotic disease occurrence in agrifood systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Researchers at SwRI have developed a reliable testing methodology to study stochastic pre-ignition in hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines. The methodology provides insight into lubricant-initiated pre-ignition events and supports further work on mitigation strategies and commercial lubricants.
A randomized clinical trial conducted at UCLA Health found that AI scribe tools reduced physician documentation time by 9.5% and improved burnout scores. While the technology showed promise, it also generated clinically significant inaccuracies and required active physician oversight.
In a study by SWPS University, researchers found that children interact with polite robots almost always respond politely. Younger children and girls are more likely to anthropomorphise the robot, suggesting social cues in interactions between children and robots are crucial for positive learning outcomes.
Researchers propose technology using multimodal information from LiDAR, GPS, IMU, and thermal camera to reconstruct transmission line geometric profile and estimate sag. The approach can predict how the shape of the TL would change under extreme thermal conditions.
A team of researchers has developed a two-in-one nanostructured SERS sensor integrated into a stretchable and antimicrobial wrapper that monitors food directly on the surface and actively preserves it. The proposed technology enables real-time, non-destructive detection of nutritional components and tracks spoilage progression over time.
Studies have confirmed that liquid droplets formed by ubiquilin-2 (UBQLN2) facilitate the aggregation and fibril formation of α-synuclein protein. Researchers also discovered a compound that interacts with UBQLN2, preventing its self-association and liquid droplet formation, which may lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Repeated head impacts in professional boxers and mixed martial artists can lead to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. The glymphatic system, responsible for clearing waste from the brain, is compromised in fighters with higher numbers of knockouts.
A novel mRNA-based therapy has been shown to slow bacterial growth, strengthen immune cell activity, and reduce lung tissue damage in models of multidrug-resistant pneumonia. The therapy works by giving the body a special protein that directly breaks down harmful bacteria and recruits immune cells to help clear them out.
A large-scale laboratory screening identified 168 chemicals toxic to human-made gut bacteria. Washing fruit and veggies before consumption may help avoid exposure to these pollutants. Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict chemical harm, emphasizing the need for safer industrial practices.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have discovered an approach to electrically switch organic LEDs to emit either left- or right-handed circularly polarized light. This could lead to new applications in displays, secure communication systems, and quantum technologies.
Researchers have identified regions of the human genome particularly prone to mutations, which can be inherited by future generations. The mutated stretches of DNA are located at the start point of genes and are more susceptible to errors during cell division.
A new AI image-only model has been shown to provide stronger and more precise risk stratification for five-year breast cancer prediction than traditional breast density assessment. The model was trained on 421,499 mammograms and showed a fourfold higher cancer incidence in high-risk women compared to those with average risk.
A new deep-learning tool can rapidly identify wild and farmed salmon by analyzing fish scales, with 95% accuracy. This technology has the potential to mitigate the ecological impact of escaped farmed salmon on wild populations.
A new study of over 3,000 women aged 60+ found that using sex toys during masturbation leads to a higher frequency of orgasm. The study suggests that older women could benefit from receiving more information on sex toy use and orgasm promotion from healthcare professionals.