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Thursday, 24 October 2024

How should journalists cover coronavirus preprint studies?

When a story in the Los Angeles Times recently claimed that the novel coronavirus behind COVID-19 had mutated into a more contagious version, it was quickly amplified by other outlets and stoked fears that the virus was becoming more dangerous. The problem is, that wasn’t necessarily true. Scientists quickly took…

Too little sleep can mean more asthma attacks in adults

A good night’s sleep is crucial to good health. A new article in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the scientific journal of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) reveals that too little sleep, and occasionally too much sleep, can negatively impact adults with asthma. “Previous research…

Hearing test: Can you get a hearing test during lockdown?

Hearing test centres, opticians and dentists are among those healthcare businesses which have adapted their services amid the coronavirus pandemic, putting routine appointments on hold. But for those who experience frightening issues with their hearing, a hearing test may be desired, but can you get a hearing test under the…

How to safely reuse a disposable mask

Face masks have become an important (and in some places, even mandatory) part of our look since the CDC recommended they be used whenever we go out in public. And while the CDC has also recommended that we use cotton face masks, some of us may have been lucky enough…

Telehealth tools developed for Ebola improve COVID-19 care

Telemedicine tools developed at UVA Health to battle Ebola have huge potential in the fight against COVID-19, UVA experts report in a new scientific paper. The tools, they say, allow doctors to provide personal, high-quality care while conserving vital personal protective equipment and reducing infection risks. The battle against highly…

65% of people who test positive for COVID-19 lost their sense of smell

Two thirds of people who test positive for coronavirus lost their sense of smell, suggesting it may be an early predictor of infection, study of symptom tracker app finds Researchers at Harvard University and King’s College London gathered data logged by more than 2.6 million users of a coronavirus symptom…

A ‘consciousness conductor’ synchronizes and connects mouse brain areas

For scientists searching for the brain’s ‘control room,” an area called the claustrum has emerged as a compelling candidate. This little-studied deep brain structure is thought to be the place where multiple senses are brought together, attention is controlled, and consciousness arises. Observations in mice now support the role of…

Occupational hygiene expertise could help reduce risk of COVID-19 in workplace

Occupational hygienists could play an important role helping workers return to their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, a University of Stirling expert has said. As the focus of the pandemic turns to transitioning to a “new normal,” Dr. Sean Semple, Associate Professor at the Institute of Social Marketing and Health,…