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University of Houston researchers paving the way for new era in medical imaging

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new technology that uses photon counting detectors to capture X-ray images with multiple energy levels simultaneously. This allows for more precise 3D visualization of different tissues and contrast agents, which can improve cancer detection and other medical applications.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2025

Chung-Ang University uncovers porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus’s impact on swine immunity

Researchers analyzed protein-coding RNA transcripts from single cells and lung fluid of infected pigs, monitoring immune cell alterations triggered by PRRSV strains of varying virulence. They found that high-virulence PRRSV caused severe lung damage and immune imbalance, while less virulent strains led to delayed lung damage with fewer...

SourceChung Ang University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2025

Genoa Instruments, a deep-tech startup born from the Italian Institute of Technology, secures €1 million funding round led by Deep Blue Ventures to transform super-resolution optical microscopy

Genoa Instruments has secured €1 million funding to expand its market presence, develop new products, and democratize access to super-resolution microscopy. The company aims to enable researchers and professionals worldwide to access cutting-edge imaging technology.

Insurance coverage, type of employment shape inequities in access to semaglutide

A new study found disparities in access to semaglutide based on insurance plan, job industry, sex, and other factors. Individuals with female identities, preferred provider organization coverage, and antidepressant use were more likely to start taking semaglutide compared to males or those with certain employment industries.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJan 22, 2025

A ‘smoke-free generation’ in Canada? New analysis says it would result in vast health gains, healthcare cost savings

A new analysis suggests that implementing a lifetime ban on tobacco products for individuals born after 2009 would result in vast health benefits and healthcare cost savings. The study estimates $2.3 billion less in healthcare costs and 476,814 more quality-adjusted life years for Canadians over a 50-year timespan.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalHealth Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025

Simon Fraser University awarded $22.9 million to lead National Invention to Innovation (I2I) network expansion

Simon Fraser University has received a $23 million grant to expand its Invention to Innovation (i2I) programs, providing bilingual innovation and entrepreneurship training for graduate students, researchers, and faculty. The program aims to bridge the gap between invention and innovation, equipping researchers with skills to thrive as ...

Researchers call for legislative reform to improve transparency in drug company payments to healthcare professionals

A new analysis reveals critical gaps in the UK's self-regulated system for disclosing payments from drug companies to healthcare professionals and organisations. The study finds billions of pounds in untraceable research payments and non-research payments lack clarity, with significant breaches by major companies. Researchers are calli...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBMJ Evidence-Based Medicine·DateJan 8, 2025

Improved health care value cannot be achieved by hospital mergers and acquisitions alone

A systematic review of 384 studies found that only about one in five health care integrations leads to improved value of care delivery, primarily due to better care management processes. Hospital charges increased with integration, and quality of care showed reduced quality or no change in nearly 77% of the studies.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 30, 2024

New study highlights ethical challenges in conducting cannabis research in Canada

A recent study published in Social Science & Medicine reveals the complexities of conducting cannabis research in Canada, where researchers face structural barriers and concerns about scientific integrity. The study suggests key solutions to increase public funding, enhance transparency, and promote independence in research.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateDec 19, 2024

Harnessing multi-element perovskites as catalysts for selective oxidation of light alkanes

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully developed a multi-element perovskite catalyst that selectively oxidizes light alkanes to alcohols with high yield and selectivity. The breakthrough catalyst operates under mild conditions and exhibits excellent stability and reusability.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2024

Most Medicare beneficiaries do not compare prescription drug plans – and may be sticking with bad plans

A USC Schaeffer study found that over half of Medicare beneficiaries with stand-alone Part D plans did not switch due to lack of plan comparisons, with many unaware of how to change plans or missing out on better coverage options. This complacency allows insurers to exploit beneficiaries' inattention and boost profits.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs Scholar·DateNov 19, 2024

Plastic device aids robot-assisted heart surgery

A new plastic device has been developed to secure the surgical field during robot-assisted heart surgery, allowing surgeons to operate with greater independence. The device, made from a type of plastic used in medical implants and aerospace industry, expands to a certain size and retains its shape.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalInnovations Technology and Techniques in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery·TypeCase study·DateNov 7, 2024

Improving deer health one test at a time

A recent study by Mizzou researchers found that infections are a significant problem for white-tailed deer on Missouri farms. The study identified the three most common types of bacteria causing pneumonia in farmed deer, providing actionable data for veterinarians and farmers to make informed decisions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Dartmouth’s Center for Technology and Behavioral Health launches collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim to develop digital health tools to help patients and providers

The partnership aims to create, study, and implement digital health solutions to address mental and behavioral health conditions. Researchers will use ecological momentary assessment and digital sensors on a patient's mobile phone to monitor cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.

Researchers improve speed and accuracy of 3D surface measurements

The new fringe photometric stereo technique reduces scanning time by over two-thirds while achieving micrometer-level accuracy, ideal for real-time scanning applications such as industrial inspection and medical procedures. The approach 'feels' the surface by projecting light patterns, improving precision measurements.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 24, 2024

How chain IVF clinics improve infertility treatment

A study by University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers found that chain IVF clinics significantly improve treatment cycles and live birth rates compared to independent operators. Clinic acquisition leads to a 27% increase in IVF cycles and a 14% rise in live births, indicating improved care quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2024

New research suggests: To get patients to accept medical AI, remind them of human biases

A study from Lehigh University and Seattle University found that making patients aware of biases in human healthcare decisions increases receptiveness to AI recommendations. By highlighting the limitations of human judgment, healthcare providers can create a more balanced relationship between patients and emerging technologies.

SourceLehigh University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Holographic 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize multiple industries, say Concordia researchers

Concordia researchers develop a novel method of 3D printing using acoustic holograms, capable of creating complex objects quickly and at once. This technique, called holographic direct sound printing (HDSP), stores information of multiple images in a single hologram, allowing for the creation of multiple objects simultaneously.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 8, 2024

Virginia Tech researchers publish real-time data to understand what happens when people lose their balance

Virginia Tech researchers publish real-time data to better understand what happens when people lose their balance. The study uses wrist-worn voice recorders to capture immediate, self-reported data from participants, providing a more reliable understanding of the circumstances surrounding balance loss among older adults.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 4, 2024

Graphene spike mat and fridge magnet technology to fight against antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a graphene-based, ultra-thin antibacterial material that can kill 99.9% of bacteria on surfaces, including medical devices and implants. The new technology uses fridge magnet technology to control the orientation of graphene flakes, making it possible for practical applica...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

New method improves understanding of light-wave propagation in anisotropic materials

Researchers have developed a new technique to study anisotropic materials, capturing full complexity of light behavior in these materials. The method revealed detailed insights into how light scatters differently along various directions within materials, allowing retrieval of scattering tensor coefficients.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateSep 17, 2024

New vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from deadly tick-borne disease

A new vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from bovine anaplasmosis, a devastating tick-borne disease causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses. The vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month and is being discussed with industry partners for future distribution.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVaccine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

Mizzou researchers explore solutions to help reduce nurse burnout

A recent study by University of Missouri researchers found that giving nurses massages during their shifts can reduce physical aches and pains while improving mental rejuvenation. The study's lead researcher aims to create a healthier work environment where nurses are excited to remain in the profession long-term.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalComplementary Therapies in Clinical Practice·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 27, 2024

Researchers shed light on how to make photopolymerization much more efficient

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel strategy to increase the efficiency of photopolymerization reactions by leveraging dynamic UV lighting. This technique produces heavier polymer chains with reduced energy consumption, offering potential for sustainable industrial processes and polymeric materials.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMacromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2024

Is free genetic testing really free?

A recent commentary in the Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that free genetic testing may have trade-offs, particularly regarding patient data protection and potential harm. The authors emphasize the need for comprehensive guidance to help practitioners navigate this complex issue.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 29, 2024