Category: 8. Health

  • Evaluating tonsillectomy-related YouTube videos via a human expert review and the ChatGPT-4: a multi-method quality analysis | BMC Medical Education

    Evaluating tonsillectomy-related YouTube videos via a human expert review and the ChatGPT-4: a multi-method quality analysis | BMC Medical Education

    This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the educational quality and medical accuracy of YouTube videos related to tonsillectomy, integrating human expert assessments with large language model (LLM)-based evaluations and transcript readability metrics. The findings highlight both the strengths and persistent challenges of using open-access digital platforms for disseminating patient education content.

    Consistent with previous research, the overall quality of the videos included in this analysis was moderate. The mean DISCERN score (56.3 ± 8.7) aligns with findings from Vasan et al. (2024), Strychowsky et al. (2013), and Ward et al. (2020), all of whom reported that the majority of tonsillectomy-related content on YouTube fails to meet high standards of medical reliability ([6, 8, 9]) These consistent findings reinforce concerns regarding YouTube’s limited role as a dependable source of surgical information for the public, despite its widespread use and accessibility.

    One of the most notable patterns in our analysis was the significantly lower quality of patient-generated content than videos produced by physicians, hospitals, or health associations. Both DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores were significantly lower for patient videos—a trend that aligns with observations from prior studies. In particular, Selen et al. (2024) emphasized that videos produced by professional organizations consistently score higher in quality assessments [10]. While personal experience videos may provide emotional support and relatability, our findings corroborate those of Vasan et al. and Strychowsky et al., who caution that such narratives often lack critical clinical details and may deviate from evidence-based consensus practices [6, 8]. These results underscore the continued need for professional involvement in the creation of patient-facing health content.

    Our study also demonstrated a strong alignment between AI-generated evaluations and those of expert reviewers. Specifically, we found a moderate-to-strong correlation between the ChatGPT-4 accuracy scores and JAMA scores (ρ = 0.56, p < 0.001) and an even stronger correlation between the ChatGPT-4 completeness scores and DISCERN ratings (ρ = 0.72, p < 0.001). Furthermore, DISCERN scores significantly predicted ChatGPT-4 completeness ratings in a regression analysis (R² = 0.51, p < 0.001), highlighting the potential of ChatGPT-4 as a reliable tool for evaluating health information quality. While Demirci (2024) and Yüce et al. (2024) reported only moderate agreement between human raters and ChatGPT-4 models, citing issues such as low reproducibility and overestimation, our stronger correlations may reflect methodological enhancements, including manual transcript correction and the use of structured, task-specific prompts [11, 12]. On the other hand, our results align with those of Bal et al. (2024), who reported high concordance between ChatGPT-4 and expert classifications of language learning video content [13]. Taken together, these findings suggest that while ChatGPT-4 holds considerable promise in content evaluation, its performance may vary depending on the medical context and task.

    In terms of linguistic accessibility, the average Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) of the video transcripts was 8.38, which is well above the recommended sixth-grade reading level for patient education materials. This aligns with prior reports indicating that even trusted sources such as MedlinePlus often exceed ideal readability thresholds [14]. Although readability metrics were not significantly correlated with DISCERN or JAMA scores, this finding raises concerns about the accessibility of video content for individuals with lower health literacy. Given that many viewers seeking tonsillectomy-related content may include parents of pediatric patients or individuals unfamiliar with medical terminology, an eighth-grade readability level may hinder comprehension and limit the practical usefulness of the information. Enhancing the clarity and simplicity of language used in video narration or captions could improve user understanding and engagement, especially in vulnerable populations. Future educational content should aim to align more closely with the recommended sixth-grade reading level to ensure broader accessibility.

    This is one of the first studies to apply a multi-method framework combining human, AI, and readability analyses to assess the quality of tonsillectomy-related YouTube videos. Our inclusion of the ChatGPT-4 as an evaluative tool offers valuable insights into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in quality assurance for online health information. The strong correlations observed between human and AI ratings suggest that LLMs may serve as supportive prescreening tools for clinicians, educators, and platform moderators aiming to identify high-quality educational content at scale.

    Practical significance and educational implications

    While only ChatGPT-4 accuracy showed a statistically significant difference between transcript-heavy and visually-rich videos (Cohen’s d = 0.600, p = 0.030), this represents a large effect size with potential educational relevance. The 8% increase in AI-rated accuracy for visually enriched content highlights its value in enhancing comprehension—particularly for procedures like tonsillectomy that rely heavily on visual demonstration. This aligns with Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, which posits that individuals learn more effectively when information is presented using both verbal and visual modalities [15]. Prior work in health communication also emphasizes the role of visual aids in improving understanding, recall, and engagement, especially among audiences with lower health literacy [16]. Given the consistently large effect sizes observed in correlations between AI-generated and expert ratings (ρ = 0.56–0.72), these findings support the use of LLM-based scoring tools for preliminary quality screening, provided their limitations are acknowledged.

    However, it is important to note that ChatGPT-4 only assessed the textual transcripts, and the model had no access to the actual visual or auditory elements. Therefore, the observed accuracy gains in visually rich videos may reflect indirect improvements in transcript clarity or contextual grounding, rather than a direct effect of visual features. This suggests that visual enhancements may improve the way speakers articulate or structure information, which in turn benefits AI interpretation. Future studies using AI models capable of analyzing multimodal content are needed to verify this effect directly.

    Limitations

    Several limitations should be acknowledged. First, our analysis was restricted to English-language videos, which limits the generalizability of the findings to non-English-speaking audiences. Second, despite excellent inter-rater reliability, the subjective nature of human assessments cannot be eliminated. Third, as a cross-sectional study, our findings reflect a snapshot of the YouTube landscape between May and June 2025. Another limitation of this study is the inclusion of only English-language videos. This introduces selection bias and restricts the generalizability of the findings to English-speaking populations. Language and cultural context may significantly influence both the production and the perception of health education content, as communication styles, health beliefs, and literacy expectations can vary widely across regions. Future studies incorporating multilingual datasets and cross-cultural comparisons would be valuable to understand how video quality and accessibility differ across global audiences. Given the dynamic nature of online content and search algorithms, the results may vary over time. Additionally, ChatGPT-4 evaluated only transcripts; it cannot assess visual or auditory elements, which may influence the educational quality of a video. Previous work by Yüce et al. has also noted the model’s tendency to underperform when analyzing lengthy or complex video content and highlighted that video length itself may positively correlate with quality, an aspect not addressed in this study [12].

    Future directions

    Future research should explore strategies for producing engaging and medically accurate health videos that are both accessible and algorithmically visible. Studies evaluating the optimal design features—such as visuals, narration style, and interactivity—may help enhance the visibility, reach, and impact of such content. Continued development and fine-tuning of large language models (LLMs) for healthcare-specific evaluation tasks could further strengthen their reliability and utility. Additionally, future studies incorporating patient-reported feedback through surveys may provide valuable insights into the perceived usefulness and trustworthiness of online health content, thereby bridging the gap between objective quality metrics and real-world user experience. Longitudinal analyses are also warranted to monitor how the quality of medical videos evolves in response to platform changes and shifting public expectations.

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  • A Dual-Function Molecule for Better Displays and Imaging

    A Dual-Function Molecule for Better Displays and Imaging


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    Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a novel organic molecule that simultaneously exhibits two highly sought-after properties: efficient light emission suitable for advanced displays and strong light absorption for deep-tissue bioimaging. This breakthrough addresses a long-standing challenge in molecular design, paving the way for next-generation multifunctional materials. Their study, published online in the journal  on July 29, 2025, was conducted in collaboration with the National Taipei University of Technology and the National Central University.

    Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are at the forefront of modern display and lighting technologies, powering nearly everything from smartphone screens to large televisions and monitors. A key phenomenon that is actively being researched to enhance OLED efficiency is thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). This process occurs when absorbed energy trapped in a non-light-emitting state (triplet state) is shifted into a light-emitting state (singlet state) using heat from the surroundings. In simple terms, materials exhibiting TADF can efficiently produce light from energy that would normally be lost, leading to brighter and more energy-efficient devices.

    Beyond displays, the ability to capture sharp images of biological tissues while causing minimal harm is crucial for medical diagnostics and research. To this end, techniques leveraging two-photon absorption (2PA) have proven useful. In 2PA, instead of absorbing a single high-energy photon, a molecule absorbs two lower-energy photons simultaneously from a high-intensity laser to reach an excited state capable of emitting fluorescence. Light with lower-energy photons and longer wavelengths, like near infrared, is ideal for biomedical imaging, since it can penetrate much deeper into tissues without scattering. As a bonus, 2PA means that only a small portion of tissue at the laser’s focal point is excited, causing less damage to living cells.

    Although TADF and 2PA are both desirable properties in organic materials—one for efficient light emission, and the other for superior imaging—combining both in a single molecule has been extremely challenging. This is because these mechanisms impose conflicting design requirements. Strong TADF calls for a twisted molecular structure that physically separates electron orbitals to facilitate energy conversion. In contrast, 2PA typically requires a more planar structure with significant orbital overlap to enable effective light absorption.

    “Recognizing that these two functions have complementary advantages but conflicting molecular requirements, I was motivated to design a material that could harmonize both, ultimately aiming to create new multifunctional materials that could link the fields of electronics and life sciences,” says Dr. Youhei Chitose, Assistant Professor of the Graduate School of Engineering at Kyushu University, Japan, and the lead author of the study.

    To fill this knowledge gap, the research team employed a clever molecular design strategy. They created a molecule called CzTRZCN that acts as a molecular switch, changing its structure and properties depending on whether it’s absorbing or emitting light. Their approach involved combining an electron-rich carbazole (Cz) compound with an electron-deficient triazine (TRZ) core. The researchers were able to finetune how the electrons grouped into orbitals within the structure by also adding cyano (CN) groups, which exert a strong pull onto electrons.

    The end result meant that during light absorption, CzTRZCN maintains enough orbital overlap between its components to efficiently absorb two photons simultaneously. After excitation, the molecule undergoes structural changes that separate these components, enabling TADF.

    Through a combination of theoretical calculations and experimental validation, the team demonstrated that their newly designed material achieved remarkable dual functionality. When integrated into an OLED device, CzTRZCN achieved an external quantum efficiency of 13.5%, establishing a new benchmark among triazine-based TADF materials. Moreover, it exhibited a high 2PA cross-section (a measure of 2PA efficiency) and high brightness, signifying its potential for medical imaging.

    “The proposed molecule is a metal-free organic compound with low toxicity to cells and high biocompatibility. This makes it ideal for use in medical probes for precise cancer and neurological diagnostics, especially through time-resolved fluorescence microscopy,” highlights Chitose.

    Overall, this study represents an important step toward developing versatile organic materials that bridge the fields of photoelectronics and bioimaging. Beyond medical use, the proposed molecular design strategy for achieving different orbital characteristics for absorption and emission can be widely applied to other multifunctional materials.

    “Moving forward, we aim to expand this molecular design approach to cover a broader range of emission wavelengths. We also plan to collaborate with researchers in biomedical and device engineering fields to explore the implementation of these materials in practical applications such as in vivo imaging, wearable sensors, and OLEDs,” concludes Chitose.

    Reference: Chitose Y, Mageswari GV, Zenke R, et al. Unlocking dual functionality in triazine‐based emitters: synergistic enhancement of two‐photon absorption and TADF‐OLED performance with electron‐withdrawing substituents. Adv Mater. 2025:2509857. doi: 10.1002/adma.202509857

    This article has been republished from the following materials. Note: material may have been edited for length and content. For further information, please contact the cited source. Our press release publishing policy can be accessed here.

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  • Patient’s heartbreaking final words before death

    Patient’s heartbreaking final words before death

    “I want to go home.”

    These were the last words spoken to a father by a young woman who died within hours of complications arising from elective weight loss surgery.

    Brooke Tiddy was admitted to St George Private Hospital in Sydney on September 19, 2018 for bariatric surgery recommended by her doctor, who assessed her as “super super obese”.

    But her hopes for a new lease on life were dashed when the 32-year-old died two days later.

    St George Private Hospital signage (file)

    A surgeon at the private hospital didn’t research Brooke Tiddy’s condition until after she died. (Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)

    An inquest into her death seeks to assess the effectiveness of the hospital’s processes and prevent similar deaths.

    On Monday, her parents and two sisters remembered the mental health support worker as “an energetic and enthusiastic soul who would do anything for anyone”.

    Ms Tiddy had been “deeply motivated to improve her health” and was “nervous but excited” when she embarked on the journey “she would never have a chance to complete”.

    Her family said the passionate baker’s life was cut tragically short by a failure to investigate her underlying health issues before her surgery.

    “This oversight cost Brooke her life and shattered her family’s and friends’ trust in the health system,” they said in a statement.

    “We hope (this inquest) will lead to measures that ensure such preventable tragedies never happen again”.

    The inquest was told Ms Tiddy lived with an “extremely rare” condition known as sponastrime dysplasia, which affects the muscles and skeletal system.

    Her surgeon Dr Vytauras Kuzinkovas said he hadn’t previously heard of the condition and didn’t do any research about it until after Ms Tiddy’s death.

    One of the associated features is a narrowing of the airways which was ultimately found to be Ms Tiddy’s cause of death, the inquest was told. 

    An autopsy found her airways had severely narrowed to the approximate diameter of a drinking straw, which almost certainly occurred before the surgery.

    Dr Kuzinkovas said Ms Tiddy downplayed her asthma and depression and didn’t reveal she had croup or narrow airways during an initial consultation.

    An in-depth assessment of her medical history would have likely revealed such risk factors, he said, but he hadn’t thought it was needed at the time.

    Court building signage (file)Court building signage (file)

    An autopsy found Brooke Tiddy’s airways narrowed to about a straw’s diameter, likely before surgery. (David Gray/AAP PHOTOS)

    With the benefit of hindsight, Dr Kuzinkovas accepted Ms Tiddy was a high-risk patient whom he would have referred to specialists before surgery.

    Intensive care unit staff looking after Ms Tiddy were not informed about her sponastrime dysplasia and its significance, the inquest was told.

    If he had been aware of the link between her condition and narrowed airways, ICU doctor Michael O’Leary said he would have called in a specialist.

    “This has been the worst experience I’ve had in my career. I felt very alone that night,” he said.

    “The only thing looking back on it I would do differently would be to get someone else to give me a hand.”

    Dr O’Leary said he wasn’t sure whether a pre-operative assessment would have prevented MsTiddy’s death because what they really needed was to access her full medical history.

    “In a sense we were set up to fail in this case because there was all of this information that was kept from us,” he said.

    The inquest continues on Tuesday.

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  • Next-gen malaria vaccine created using mapped parasite protein

    Next-gen malaria vaccine created using mapped parasite protein

    Australian scientists have, for the first time, visualised a malaria parasite protein complex–a discovery that has led to a new mRNA vaccine capable of blocking the parasite’s reproduction in mosquitoes and potentially halting transmission.

    Malaria mosquito


    Malaria is one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, causing over 600,000 deaths annually. Despite progress in treatment and prevention, stopping transmission between mosquitoes and humans has still not been achieved.

    But now for the first time, Australian scientists have captured the detailed structure of a crucial protein complex in malaria parasites – revealing a promising new target for vaccines aimed at stopping the spread of the disease.

    Using advanced cryo-electron microscopy, researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) visualised a protein complex essential for malaria parasite fertilisation inside mosquitoes. Their study has led to the development of a new mRNA vaccine candidate that blocks the parasite’s reproduction in mosquitoes – potentially breaking the cycle of transmission before it infects humans.

    Visualising malaria’s reproductive machinery

    Scientists have long known that two proteins on the malaria parasite surface – Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 – are critical for the parasite’s transmission. However, exactly how these proteins interact was not understood.

     “Our structural biology approach was the key. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we were able to visualise the full fertilisation complex directly from the parasite – not a lab-made version,” said lead researcher Dr Melanie Dietrich, a WEHI postdoctoral fellow. “This gave us a clear picture of how this fertilisation complex really looks in nature and revealed a previously unknown region that’s crucial to the process, unlocking a powerful new vaccine target.”

    The scientists used these findings to create a vaccine that showed promise in targeting these contact points.

    From structural insight to vaccine innovation

    Unlike many studies that rely on artificially produced proteins, this research purified the fertilisation complex directly from malaria parasites – a technically challenging step that ensures the structure reflects its true form in nature.

    The team identified critical contact points where Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 bind. Removing these contact points in genetically modified parasites stopped fertilisation and blocked transmission – highlighting an effective vaccine target.

    Building on this discovery, the researchers designed a next-generation mRNA vaccine – formulated in collaboration with the mRNA Core facility at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS).

    In preclinical trials, this vaccine triggered strong antibody responses that recognised the parasite and blocked its transmission in mosquitoes by up to 99.7 percent.

    “Drawing on experience through mRNA Core, the MIPS team shifted focus to tackle a new challenge in malaria vaccination. The success of the malaria vaccine program illustrates the versatility of mRNA technology, which has many applications beyond the COVID vaccines,” Professor Colin Pouton from MIPS. “It was particularly rewarding to work on this project with the WEHI team, co-located in the Parkville precinct, where shared expertise has helped drive a new approach to malaria prevention.”

    A depiction of proteins Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 bound together. This binding process is crucial for the malaria parasite’s ability to fertilise and spread. Credit: WEHI

    Targeting a vulnerable stage in the parasite’s life cycle

    The malaria parasite undergoes a “population bottleneck” inside the mosquito. While abundant in humans, only a small fraction develops into the sexual forms capable of fertilisation in mosquitoes. Targeting the parasite at this stage can significantly reduce transmission.

    Transmission-blocking vaccines like this target the parasite inside mosquitoes, when its population is smallest and most vulnerable – providing a strategic advantage in controlling the disease.

    Towards a multi-stage strategy for malaria elimination

    The researchers believe that their mRNA vaccine is part of a broader multi-stage approach that targets the parasite both inside mosquitoes and within the human host.

    “The ability to design, formulate and test vaccine candidates within a single research ecosystem has accelerated the path from discovery to preclinical validation,” Professor Tham said.

    By combining transmission-blocking vaccines with others targeting the parasite’s blood or liver stages in people, scientists hope to build a comprehensive defence that could greatly reduce malaria and bring eradication closer.

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  • Optimum Wound Care Shares Key Link Between Rest and Wound Recovery

    Optimum Wound Care Shares Key Link Between Rest and Wound Recovery

    Expert care, advanced technology, and personalized healing – Optimum Wound Care leads the way in outpatient wound treatment.

    Wound Consultation

    Personalized treatment plans designed by specialists to accelerate healing, prevent complications, and restore quality of life.

    Wound Recovery

    Quality sleep plays a vital role in wound recovery – promoting cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall immune function. Prioritize rest as part of your wound care journey.

    Research-backed guidance sheds light on the healing benefits of quality sleep in wound care.

    We regularly observe how non-clinical factors such as rest, nutrition, and stress management affect patient recovery.”

    — Mosayeb (Moe) Karimi, FNP

    LOUISVILLE, KY, UNITED STATES, August 11, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — Optimum Wound Care, a provider of advanced wound care in Louisville, has released new guidance on the important relationship between sleep and the body’s healing process. The educational resource emphasizes that quality rest is a foundational component in wound recovery, especially for patients managing chronic wounds or undergoing long-term treatment.
    Recent clinical studies have shown that adequate sleep supports tissue regeneration, immune function, and hormonal balance all of which are essential for effective wound healing. The Optimum Wound Care’s recent article outlines these connections, aiming to raise awareness among patients and caregivers about the role of sleep in overall recovery outcomes.

    “We regularly observe how non-clinical factors such as rest, nutrition, and stress management affect patient recovery,” said Dr. Mosayeb (Moe) Karimi, Medical Director at Optimum Wound Care. “Sleep, in particular, has a measurable influence on wound healing. Patients who prioritize consistent, restorative sleep often experience more favorable healing progress.”

    According to Optimum Wound Care, sleep deprivation can disrupt the body’s ability to produce cytokines proteins that regulate inflammation and healing. This can lead to slower recovery, increased risk of infection, and prolonged treatment timelines. Individuals with existing conditions such as diabetes or circulatory issues may be especially vulnerable to the effects of poor sleep.

    The center’s article also discusses how certain sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea, can impair oxygen delivery and reduce the effectiveness of natural healing mechanisms. These insights are part of Optimum Wound Care’s broader approach to wound care, which integrates lifestyle education with evidence-based medical treatment.

    “Patient education is an important part of what we do,” Dr. Karimi added. “When we inform patients about how their daily habits like sleep patterns can affect their recovery, we empower them to take a more active role in their healing process.”

    In addition to traditional wound treatments, Optimum Wound Care encourages patients to develop healthy sleep routines. Recommendations include setting consistent bedtimes, limiting screen use before sleep, and addressing underlying medical issues that may disrupt rest. These strategies, while not a substitute for medical intervention, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of wound care.

    The article, How Sleep Affects Wound Healing and Recovery, is available on the Optimum Wound Care’s website and is intended for both patients and clinicians. It reflects the center’s continued commitment to improving recovery through holistic, patient-centered care.

    About Optimum Wound Care

    Optimum Wound Care is a Louisville-based medical clinic specializing in advanced wound care and recovery solutions. With a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and specialists, the center provides customized treatment for chronic wounds, diabetic ulcers, pressure injuries, and other complex conditions. Optimum Wound Care is committed to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based care, education, and compassionate support.

    Healing starts here. Trust Optimum Wound Care to deliver expert, patient-centered solutions that accelerate recovery and improve outcomes. Connect with our care team today and take the first step toward optimum healing.

    Mosayeb (Moe) Karimi
    Optimum Wound Care (OWC)
    +1 502-293-5665
    owc.center@gmail.com
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  • Scientists develop incredible device that can test for water contamination faster than blink of eye: ‘More intelligent’

    Scientists develop incredible device that can test for water contamination faster than blink of eye: ‘More intelligent’

    Taking inspiration from the human body, scientists might have cracked the code on how to easily find out if water has been contaminated.

    According to new research by the National University of Singapore (NUS) covered by Tech Xplore, a new device may be able to vastly improve the way we monitor and manage the quality of our water.

    Human skin has an oily protective layer known as sebum, which inspired ReSURF, the material invented by the researchers at NUS.

    Humankind depends on clean water to survive, and ReSURF could be a way to ensure that it becomes more accessible, as well as creating a monitoring method that is kinder to the planet.

    A thin layer of the ReSURF material covers a sensor, which can analyze and differentiate the electric signals of different types of pollutants in water droplets. Different contaminants create different readings, meaning that scientists can easily identify when water samples are tainted.

    Associate Professor Benjamin Tee commented per Tech Xplore, “The ReSURF sensor can detect various pollutants, such as oils and fluorinated compounds, which are challenging for many existing sensors.” He went on to say that the material is self-powered, self-healing, reusable, and recyclable.

    Many existing water monitoring systems are pricey, slow, often have limited reusability, and need specialist instruments or bulky lab equipment, according to Tech Xplore. In comparison, ReSURF can detect water pollutants in around 6 milliseconds, which is around 40 times faster than the blink of an eye.

    While it can be used to monitor water supplies in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, it can also check on the safety of water in agricultural settings, like rice fields. Beyond that, wastewater management could be revolutionized by using ReSURF monitoring in industrial settings and sewage plants.

    This will have a major positive impact on making sure access to clean water is more readily available, while also not creating more pollution. Since ReSURF is reusable and recyclable, it is a great example of tech advancements taking the planet into consideration.

    Professor Tee commented, “We envision this platform as a foundation for the development of more intelligent and responsive water quality monitoring systems.”

    Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

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  • Vietnam urges preventive measures against Chikungunya virus-Xinhua

    HANOI, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) — Vietnam’s Ministry of Health on Monday advised people returning from countries with Chikungunya outbreaks to monitor their health for 12 days, local media VnExpress reported.

    The advice comes amid a rising number of infections globally.

    Vo Hai Son, deputy head of the ministry’s Department of Disease Prevention, said people who experience symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or a rash should immediately visit a medical facility and avoid self-treatment at home.

    The ministry also called for strengthened health surveillance for the mosquito-borne virus at border gates, in communities, at tourist sites and in healthcare facilities.

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  • Mangoes play a big role managing blood sugar and preventing diabetes: Study |

    Mangoes play a big role managing blood sugar and preventing diabetes: Study |

    Emerging research highlights fresh mango as a potentially beneficial fruit for managing blood sugar and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, mangoes may improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate glucose levels, especially in overweight or obese individuals. One controlled trial demonstrated that daily mango consumption led to improved insulin response and stable body weight compared to other calorie-matched snacks. Despite their natural sugar content, moderate intake of mangoes as part of a balanced diet can support metabolic health. Including fresh mango regularly might be a simple, nutritious way to aid blood sugar management and overall wellness.

    Mango benefits for type 2 diabetes: Study shows improved blood sugar control

    An 8-week randomised controlled trial conducted by Fortis C-DOC Hospital and the National Diabetes, Obesity, and Cholesterol Foundation (N-DOC), New Delhi, assessed the effects of mango intake in adults with type 2 diabetes. Participants consumed 250 grams (roughly one small mango) of Safeda or Dasheri mango every morning at breakfast, while a control group ate an equal portion of white bread.The study published in the National Library of Medicine found that the mango groups experienced significantly better blood sugar control, including lower fasting blood glucose levels and enhanced insulin sensitivity, meaning their bodies used insulin more effectively. Additionally, participants showed reductions in HbA1c levels, a key marker for long-term blood sugar management. The glycaemic index of mango was notably lower than that of white bread (70–75), highlighting mango as a favourable option for glycaemic control when consumed mindfully.

    Mango also supports heart, gut, and metabolic health

    Beyond blood sugar benefits, regular mango consumption is linked to improved digestion, reduced cholesterol, enhanced skin and hair health, stronger immune function, and decreased oxidative stress. These advantages stem from mangoes’ high fibre content, powerful antioxidants such as mangiferin, and vital vitamins and minerals. Moreover, mangoes help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting cardiovascular and metabolic wellness.

    Health risks: Not a cure, but a supportive dietary choice

    While mango offers many nutritional benefits, it should not be viewed as a cure for diabetes. Due to its moderate glycaemic index and natural sugars, excessive or unbalanced mango consumption could cause blood sugar spikes, especially in people with diabetes. Experts recommend moderation, consuming mango in small portions, pairing it with proteins or healthy fats, and avoiding eating it on an empty stomach. These habits help slow sugar absorption and reduce glycaemic impact.

    Practical tips for enjoying mango for health

    • Portion control: Start with half a cup of fresh mango to enjoy sweetness without excess sugar intake.
    • Choose fresh: Fresh mango is preferable over dried or processed types, which often contain added sugars.
    • Pair wisely: Combine mango with protein-rich foods (like yoghurt or nuts) or healthy fats to help stabilise blood glucose.
    • Monitor effects: Those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar response and consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or managing health conditions such as diabetes.


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  • Blood Cell Patterns Predict Poor Venetoclax Response

    Blood Cell Patterns Predict Poor Venetoclax Response

    TOPLINE:

    Erythroid-predominant myelodysplastic neoplasms (EP MDS) (18%) exhibit unique genomic features with frequent TP53 mutations and distinct survival patterns. These cases show poor outcomes with venetoclax therapy due to BCL-XL dependence rather than BCL2, suggesting the need for alternative treatment strategies.

    METHODOLOGY:

    • Researchers evaluated 371 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed MDS presenting between December 2016 and January 2023, excluding those with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia and acute erythroid leukemia.
    • A separate cohort of 112 consecutive patients with higher-risk MDS and increased blasts > 5% received hypomethylating agent plus venetoclax therapy between April 2017 and November 2023.
    • Patients with insufficient, poor, or inadequate bone marrow samples were excluded to avoid hemodilution confounding effects.
    • EP MDS were defined as those with > 50% normoblasts plus pronormoblasts as a percentage of total bone marrow nucleated cells, while multi-hit TP53-mutated status was defined as having 2 distinct TP53 mutations, concomitant TP53 mutation and deletion of chromosome 17p/TP53, or TP53 variant allele frequency of > 50%.

    TAKEAWAY:

    • EP MDS (n = 67; 18%) showed higher frequencies of TP53 mutations (multi-hit TP53: 36% vs 17%; P = .004), BCOR mutations (12% vs 4%; P = .015), and WT1 mutations (9% vs 2%; P = .011) than non-EP cases (n = 304; 82%).
    • Three distinct genetic subgroups were identified in EP cases with significantly different survival outcomes: TP53 mutant (median survival, 11.4 months), splicing mutant (not reached), and not otherwise specifiable (19.5 months) (P < .001).
    • Among hypomethylating agent-venetoclax treated patients, EP cases showed higher leukemic transformation rates (32% vs 12%; P = .040) and worse survival (8.3 months vs not reached; P = .041).
    • Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed significantly higher BCL-XL-positive cell frequencies in EP than in non-EP cases (62.5% vs 10%; P = .013), with lower BCL2-positive cell frequencies (5% vs 30%; P = .052).

    IN PRACTICE:

    “Overall, our findings provide a detailed characterization of EP MDS and demonstrate its distinct molecular and clinical profile compared to NEP MDS. Notably, we demonstrate that although EP MDS comprises distinct genomic subsets with diverging clinical behavior, a group of these patients experience poor outcomes with currently available therapies. Our work supports the development of alternative therapeutic strategies in high-risk EP MDS cases. It sets the basis for recognizing the importance of dynamically assessing erythroid populations in MDS and developing future clinical trials evaluating the activity of BCL-XL inhibitors in this group of patients,” the authors of the study wrote.

    SOURCE:

    This study was led by Alexandre Bazinet, MD, Sanam Loghavi, MD, and Guillermo Montalban-Bravo, MD, at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. It was published online in Leukemia.

    LIMITATIONS:

    The researchers acknowledged several limitations, including that results were from a single-center study. The low frequency of EP MDS (18% of all cases) limited their ability to definitively identify distinct genomic subgroups. Limited sample availability affected transcriptional characterization and immunohistochemical profiling of large numbers of patients within each EP group. The authors noted that increased BCL-XL expression findings require future validation, and functional studies are needed to confirm whether increased BCL-XL RNA and protein expression translates into BCL-XL dependence. Given the high incidence of TP53 mutations in EP MDS, further studies are needed to determine if poor outcomes with venetoclax-based therapy are driven by TP53 mutations or erythroid-differentiation bias.

    DISCLOSURES:

    This study was supported by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Support Grant CA016672, the University of Texas MD Anderson Myelodysplastic Syndromes/Acute Myeloid Leukemia Moon Shot, and the Translational Molecular Pathology-Immunoprofiling lab MoonShots Platform. Sanam Loghavi, MD, disclosed ties with Amgen, Astellas, and multiple other pharmaceutical companies. Hagop Kantarjian, MD, reported relationships with various pharmaceutical companies including AbbVie, Agios, and Amgen. Guillermo Garcia-Manero, MD, disclosed ties with Celgene Corporation, Astex, and Amphivena. Additional disclosures are noted in the original article.

    This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.

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  • The Analysis of Medical Malpractice Litigation Related to Diagnosis of Headache in Japan: Mitigating Medicolegal Risks for Primary Care Physicians

    The Analysis of Medical Malpractice Litigation Related to Diagnosis of Headache in Japan: Mitigating Medicolegal Risks for Primary Care Physicians


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