Does glaucoma affect cognitive function?
A recent study of 7,073 adults found that those with glaucoma had higher cognitive function scores but steeper declines over 18 years. The association was small and unlikely to be clinically meaningful.
Wiley
How is pharmaceutical pollution affecting the world’s rivers?
A recent study found that approximately 43.5% of rivers worldwide have concerning concentrations of pharmaceutical ingredients, including antidepressants and painkillers. The research highlights the need to reduce emissions of these substances into the environment to mitigate their impact on river health.
Study provides insights into how cold-adapted species respond to climate change
Researchers analyzed historical data from ice ages to understand how cold-adapted Arctic mammals responded to severe climate fluctuations. The study identified common patterns in the responses of different species and provided new models for interpreting their behavior.
Article suggests clinicians should encourage patients to vote
A study published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine suggests that clinician encouragement can empower patients and their families to engage in civic activities. By promoting voter engagement, healthcare providers can contribute to building an inclusive democracy and promoting health equity.
Study links lower area-level income and education with greater likelihood of advanced lung cancer diagnosis
A recent study found that lower-income and less-educated patients, particularly those from racial/ethnic minorities, have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. The association between socioeconomic status and lung cancer stage at diagnosis was observed across different ethnicities, healthcare facilities, and...
More data in chemistry
A recent study published in Angewandte Chemie found that AI models struggle to predict reaction yields due to biased data, mainly caused by a lack of reported failed experiments. The researchers attribute this failure to three possible causes: experimental error, personal bias, and underreporting of negative results.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2022
Plastic made of vanillin
Researchers develop crosslinked polymers that can be triggered to degrade by light, offering a promising approach for producing sustainable plastics. The method uses a vanillin derivative and recovers up to 60% of the monomers without loss of quality.
How are environmental chemicals affecting vultures?
Old World vultures are vulnerable to chronic chemical exposure through the food chain, posing a threat to ecosystem health. Environmental chemicals such as legacy and emerging pollutants contribute to their decline, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
Do optimists live longer?
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that higher levels of optimism are associated with longer lifespans and a greater likelihood of living past 90 years of age. Lifestyle factors accounted for nearly one-quarter of the optimism-lifespan association across racial and ethnic groups.
How will climate change affect the geographic range of salamander species in the U.S. and Canada?
Several salamander species in eastern US and Canada face drastic habitat loss due to climate change, threatening ecosystem stability. Proportions of suitable habitats predicted to decline significantly, with some species facing up to 96% reduction.
Does polycystic ovary syndrome put women at higher risk of developing additional medical conditions
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing additional medical conditions such as migraine, hypertension, and endometriosis. They also report poorer health and use medications more frequently than women without PCOS.
Does treatment and its timing affect the costs associated with a genetic neuromuscular disease?
A new study found that patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who were identified through newborn screening had lower financial costs compared to those identified after symptoms arose. Early treatment also resulted in reduced costs, highlighting the importance of timely intervention.
Can walking for exercise help prevent pain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis?
A study found that walking for exercise reduced frequent knee pain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Preliminary evidence also suggested that it might modify structural effects of osteoarthritis on the knees.
Does media exposure influence an individual’s risk of radicalization?
A recent analysis found that simple media exposure has a very small effect on radicalization, even in individuals with aggressive predispositions. Exposure to radical content online is associated with a higher risk of turning to violence among already radicalized individuals.
Has a beautiful songbird become an invasive species in Britain?
A new study finds the Red-billed Leiothrix, a small songbird native to subtropical Asia, has become an invasive non-native species in Britain. The species' potential impact on local wildlife and ecosystems is being highlighted by researchers, who note that it could cause significant changes if widely established.
"Bridge therapy” may benefit some children with high-risk neuroblastoma
Researchers found that a bridge therapy approach prior to consolidation therapy can improve event-free survival in patients with stable metastatic cancer after induction therapy. Patients who received this treatment had significantly better outcomes compared to those who underwent direct consolidation or post-induction therapy alone.
Writing with light on titania
Researchers have developed a coating material that can be written on using UV light and erased again using oxygen, enabling reusable/rewritable surfaces in various applications. The material exhibits high contrast and stability, with up to 50 write-erase cycles possible without notable loss of contrast.
Experts stress importance of monitoring for post-treatment opioid use in young sarcoma patients
A recent study found that nearly one-quarter of young sarcoma patients continue to use opioids after treatment is completed. The researchers highlight the need for monitoring and age-appropriate strategies to manage pain while minimizing opioid exposure.
Are microplastics pervasive in Nigerian drinking water?
A recent study found that microplastics are abundant in borehole drinking water and sediments in Lagos, Nigeria. Areas with high industrial activity had higher levels of microplastics than areas with less industrial activity and lower population densities.
Do early therapies help very young children with or at high likelihood for autism?
A study analyzing reviews of therapeutic interventions found that certain types of early therapies can promote communication and social interactions in young children with autism. However, the quality of evidence was often limited, leaving families to navigate different approaches.
Can introducing a central bank digital currency improve social welfare?
Introducing CBDC with strictly positive interest can remove economic inefficiency associated with tax evasion, improving welfare. However, its impact depends on the size of government expenditure and severity of tax evasion.
Does a home-based exercise program benefit patients after hip fracture surgery?
A 12-month home-based progressive and supervised exercise program improves physical performance, handgrip strength, and activity of daily living in patients after hip fracture surgery. The study shows that investing in rehabilitation exercise benefits individuals and society.
Global study assesses teen vaping
A global study of over 51,000 adolescents aged 13-15 found that approximately 8.6% reported vaping in the past 30 days, with lower rates for frequent vaping. Countries with higher tobacco taxes tend to have higher adolescent vaping rates.
Cervical cancer screening happens less often among sexual minority individuals
A recent study reveals that sexual minority individuals are less likely to undergo cervical cancer screening, with Hispanic individuals facing the most significant disparities. The analysis of 2015–2018 data from the National Health Interview Survey found that white sexual minority participants and Hispanic sexual minority participants...
Step toward a circular economy?
Researchers have discovered a zirconium-based metal–organic framework material that catalyzes the degradation of PET into its monomers. This process can be reused to make high-value PET products, enabling the development of a circular economy. The catalyst breaks down PET waste at 260°C with yields up to 98%
Do adult-to-child ratios and group sizes matter in early childhood education?
Research suggests that reducing adult-to-child ratios and group sizes in early childhood education may increase positive adult/child interactions, reduce coercive interference, and promote prosocial child behavior. However, high-quality studies are scarce, highlighting the need for more contemporary research on this topic.
Genetic score predicts individuals’ risk of needing knee and hip replacements
A research team has developed a genetic score to predict the likelihood of needing knee or hip replacement surgery for osteoarthritis. The score was validated in a study involving 12,093 individuals and found that those with high risk scores had a higher odds of needing replacement surgeries.
Does the Earned Income Tax Credit encourage college enrollment?
A recent analysis found that the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) does not appear to increase college enrollment rates. The study suggests that complex subsidies like EITC may be ineffective at altering college going. Researchers recommend providing tax credits as grants instead of tax credits to increase college enrollment rates.
How common are medication-related errors in home care?
A study found that nearly half of all nursing staff made medication-related errors within the last year when administering medications to patients. Nurses who had attended medication training within the last 2 years were less likely to make these errors.
New map may help conservation efforts for an endangered songbird
Researchers created a warbler distribution map to identify areas important for conservation, indicating places where habitat improvement and restoration can benefit the species. The model suggests promoting woodlands with high tree canopy cover, 60–80% Ashe juniper composition, and tree heights over 3 meters.
Dog owners’ concerns and experience accessing veterinary care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Despite service restrictions, veterinary practices adapted to unprecedented circumstances, offering convenient remote consultations and addressing urgent care needs. Delays and cancellations of procedures affected some dogs, but the majority of respondents found remote consultations to be a reliable option.
Study suggests Black, Hispanic women with low vitamin D more likely to develop breast cancer
A study published by Wiley found that women with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop breast cancer, particularly among Hispanic/Latina women. The research suggests that sufficient vitamin D may protect against breast cancer, with a 21% lower risk observed in women with adequate levels.
Is immunotherapy the answer to peanut allergy purgatory?
The efficacy of Palforzia in treating peanut allergies is being called into question by Dr. Michael R. Perkin, who raises concerns about adverse events and potential long-term side effects. The editorial review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the treatment option.
High output voltage
Researchers have developed organic sulfonamides as a flexible and stable material for proton battery cathodes, achieving higher output voltages than conventional cathodes. The new material is also easy to manufacture, stable under standard conditions, and non-toxic.
Do pain relievers impede bone drug’s efficacy?
Researchers found that NSAID use negates the bone-protective effects of bisphosphonate clodronate on preventing osteoporotic fractures. The study suggests caution in extrapolating these data to more widely used bisphosphonates, as concomitant usage may lead to reduced fracture risk.
New tools against hospital infections?
A synthetic peptide has been shown to block the communication and virulence of resistant Staphylococcus bacteria in an animal model. The peptide, encapsulated in biodegradable microparticles, effectively inhibited skin wound infections.
How will climate change affect where high-elevation Alpine birds live?
A recent study found that four Alpine bird species will undergo a range contraction towards higher elevations in response to climate change. The analysis predicted that ~15,000 km² of areas will remain suitable for at least three species in the future, with 44% currently designated as protected areas.
Do personality traits and social norms impact the gender pay gap?
A systematic review of 39 studies found that personality traits and social norms are important determinants of the gender pay gap. The analysis suggests that these factors can explain a significant portion of the gap, but further research is needed to fully understand their contributions.
Can a blood test help diagnose skin cancer?
Researchers developed a blood test to detect circulating melanoma cells, which can help diagnose skin cancer and monitor treatment response. The test uses the Melanoma-specific OncoBean platform conjugated with melanoma-specific antibodies.
Online tool helps older adults who question, “Is it time to stop driving?”
A recent randomized controlled trial found that an online decision aid can help older adults decide whether and when to stop driving. The tool, called Healthwise DDA, had high acceptability and reduced negative feelings about the process among participants. It may help older adults make informed decisions about their driving abilities.
What influence’s a pregnant woman’s choice in where to give birth?
A new analysis of 23 studies identified factors influencing birth setting decisions in the US, including safety, media influence, and access to options. The study highlights the importance of building a comprehensive system of high-quality perinatal health for equitable access to all birth settings.
Cells’ “exosomes” may improve the delivery of anticancer drugs to tumors
A study published in Cancer Medicine suggests that exosomes produced by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells can effectively deliver RNA-based anti-cancer treatments to bladder cancer tumors. This novel approach shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for bladder cancer treatment, offering new hope for patients.
Can nanotechnology help fight viruses?
Recent advances in nanomaterial-based antiviral strategies have generated promising results, including antiviral nanodrugs, drug nanocarriers, and nanovaccines. These nano-sized particles can be useful for targeted delivery of antiviral treatments, leading to improved efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity.
How common is fear of cancer recurrence in survivors and patients?
A recent analysis found that more than half (59%) of cancer survivors and patients experience at least a moderate level of fear of cancer recurrence. Younger people and women are disproportionately affected. Researchers emphasize the need for tailored interventions to address this common concern.
Could goat’s milk and other food-containing skin products be dangerous for patients with inflammatory skin conditions?
Researchers found that seven patients with inflammatory skin conditions experienced anaphylaxis after using goat's milk or cheese products. The study highlights the potential risks of using foodstuffs as therapy for inflammatory skin conditions, leading to new allergies.
Have inclusion and diversity in access to higher education changed in Europe?
A study found that the proportion of socially diverse students in European universities increased between 1950-1964 and 2005, but stagnated from 2010 onwards. The research suggests that societal factors such as ethnicity and socio-economic background continue to influence educational outcomes.
Has the kidney health of children with lupus changed in recent years?
A recent analysis found that hospital admissions for children with lupus showed a decrease in severe kidney problems over time. However, racial disparities persist, with Black and Asian children at higher risk of developing new kidney problems.
How does perennial grassland cover affect duck nest survival?
A new study published in The Journal of Wildlife Management found that perennial grassland cover affects duck nest survival differently depending on its dominance as a landcover type. In the Prairie Pothole Region, intermediate levels of perennial cover (30–60%) showed no additional benefits for nest survival.
What are the motives behind cronyism?
A novel experimental design study reveals cronyism is profitable for those who engage in it, driven by beliefs in reciprocity and favoritism. Shared identity motivates even low-quality workers to reciprocate trust with greater effort.
How is haze formed?
Researchers have discovered a new source of haze-building hydroxyl radicals in soot particles, which can lead to accelerated haze formation. This discovery offers new possibilities for air purification and the development of environmentally friendly catalysts using light radiation.