The current outbreak of infections with a novel type of coronavirus has sparked global anxiety and concern that the virus might spread too far and too fast and cause dramatic harm before health officials find a way to stop it. But what are the realities of the new coronavirus outbreak?…
Lung Diseases on the Rise Worldwide
THURSDAY, Feb. 20, 2020 — Lung diseases have been striking more people around the world in the past 30 years, new research shows. And being from poor regions is the most important risk factor for respiratory trouble, the scientists added. Aging and risk factors such as smoking, pollution and overweight/obesity…
Researchers develop new standards for quality of life measurement in cancer
For the first time, recommendations for the analysis of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in cancer clinical trials have been developed by an international group of experts. The recommendations will help to determine more consistent and comparable quality of life (QoL) results from clinical trials. In a paper published in The Lancet…
Missing link in rare inherited skin disease exposed
Hokkaido University scientists are getting closer to understanding how a rare hereditary disease impairs the skin’s barrier function, which determines how well the skin is protected. The gene mutation that causes ichthyosis prematurity syndrome—characterized by premature birth; difficulty breathing shortly after birth; and very dry, thick and scaly skin—dramatically reduces…
Shift workers at higher risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes: Study
The study, published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, noted that the risks increase even more for those who work irregular or rotating shifts. Shift workers are at a significantly higher risk of sleep disorders and metabolic syndrome, which increases a person’s risk for heart disease, stroke and…
Clostridioides difficile infection flourishes with a high-protein, high-fat diet
Diets like the Keto, Paleo and Atkins focus on high-fat, high-protein meals that are often low in carbohydrates. This mix may appeal to Clostridioides difficile bacteria, too. In a new study published this week in mSystems, an open-access journal of the American Society for Microbiology, researchers report that mice fed…
Pisces Season Starts February 19, Here's What That Means For Your Star Sign
Running from February 19, 2020 through March 20, 2020, Pisces season is one of the 12 astrological seasons that happen every year. Each season has its own ~thing~ going on, and Pisces season is zero exception. During this time, you’ll be big on artsy stuff and dreaming about what could…
How 'digital twins' are harnessing IoT to advance precision medicine
Gauging a patient’s recovery status is tricky if you don’t know what they should be expected to recover to. Researchers are using data collected from patient-worn sensors, such as Apple Watch or Fitbit, to build a “digital twin” of baseline patient health information. A digital twin is essentially like creating…
Stomach pain and bloating: Cutting down on these foods could prevent bloating says study
Trapped wind happens when there is a build-up of gases in the digestive system, putting pressure on the abdomen and leading to pain and bloating. To avoid any uncomfortable feelings, one study suggest reducing your intake of one particular food group. Published in the Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology journal, a…
Research finds that cash can help stressed-out people eat more fruits and veggies
At the end of a long day, it’s tempting to order a large pizza or grab a drive-through cheeseburger for dinner. But, if offered cash, you might be persuaded to eat fruits and vegetables instead (or at least add them as a side dish). That’s what researchers at the University…