Good Vibrations: Study Suggests Handheld Objects Could Help Calm Social Anxiety
A recent study from the University of Glasgow suggests that handheld objects designed to pulse and vibrate in calming patterns could help reduce social anxiety. The research involved 29 participants and found that these uniquely-shaped objects may help reduce the intensity of anxiety in social situations. Dr. Shaun Macdonald emphasized the potential impact of the findings, highlighting the need for discreet devices to aid individuals in anxiety-inducing social situations.
Peru Declares Health Emergency Due to Surge in Dengue Fever Cases
Peru declares health emergency in response to surge in dengue fever cases, with at least 32 deaths reported. El Nino weather pattern creates favorable conditions for mosquitoes to breed and transmit the viral infection, leading to 31,300 recorded cases in the first eight weeks of the year. Health Minister emphasizes severity of situation and declares emergency in 20 of Peru’s 25 regions.
Surge in Electric Bike Injuries and Hospitalizations in Recent Years
Research shows a significant increase in electric bicycle (e-bicycle) injuries and hospitalizations in the United States since 2017, with a particular surge in head injuries. The study found a 30-fold rise in e-bicycle injuries and a 43-fold increase in hospitalizations over the five-year period, with a significant increase in head trauma. The authors emphasize the need for further examination of these trends, as traumatic brain injuries are more severe in e-bicyclists than in traditional bicyclists.
Stanford Medicine Study Reveals Groundbreaking Findings on Male and Female Brain Organization Patterns
Stanford Medicine’s recent study unveils groundbreaking findings on distinctions between male and female brain organization patterns. The research introduces a powerful new artificial intelligence model capable of distinguishing between male and female brains with over 90% accuracy. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, addresses the controversy surrounding reliable sex differences in the human brain and emphasizes the significance of sex in human brain development, aging, and the manifestation of psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Measles Outbreak at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Florida
Parents of students at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, Florida, have the option to keep their children at home due to confirmed cases of measles. Broward Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata announced that Thursday is the deadline for parents to decide whether their vaccinated or unvaccinated children will stay home for the next 21 days and engage in online continuing education with individualized assignments, emphasizing that it will not be a virtual experience. The school reported 6 confirmed cases of measles and a total of 33 unvaccinated students. As district officials await further directives, they continue to focus on cleaning and sanitizing the school, with no indication of broader county-wide issues at present.
Norovirus Cases on the Rise in the US, Especially in the Northeast
Cases of norovirus are on the rise in the US, particularly in the Northeast, with over 12% of tests coming back positive for the highly contagious virus. Despite the increase, current levels are still below those observed at the same time last season. Norovirus outbreaks are most prevalent in the late fall, winter, and early spring, and the virus causes millions of illnesses annually. The CDC recommends preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and proper food preparation to avoid illness.
The Risks of Overconsumption of Healthy Foods in Children
Learn about the potential risks associated with overconsumption of certain healthy foods in children, including fruit juices, nut butters, dried fruits, and granola. Find out how to maintain a well-rounded diet for your child’s optimal growth and development.
Study Links Nasal Key Driver Genes to Ozone and Fine Particulate Matter Exposure in Asthma Patients
A recent study presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Annual Meeting revealed that various nasal key driver genes are linked to ozone and fine particulate matter exposure in patients with asthma. The study, conducted by researchers including Supinda Bunyavanich, MD, MPH, MPhil, and Yoojin Chun, MS, analyzed data from 167 patients with mild to severe persistent asthma in the New York metropolitan area. The findings shed light on the genetic factors associated with asthma exacerbations due to environmental exposures, highlighting the importance of addressing air quality issues to improve asthma control and management.
Fifth Child Dies from Flu in Tennessee
Tennessee records its fifth pediatric influenza death this flu season, highlighting the severity of the current outbreak. The state health records indicate that the flu season, which commenced on October 1, 2023, has already claimed the lives of five children. The Tennessee Department of Health’s influenza report for the week of February 11 also reveals the presence of four ongoing influenza outbreaks in various regions of the state.
Charity Sees ‘Dramatic Increase’ in People Seeking Help for Eating Disorder
Charity sees ‘dramatic increase’ in people seeking help for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), with specialist treatment needed for those affected. Eating disorder charity Beat reports a significant rise in calls for support, highlighting the urgent need for more specialist provision to meet the needs of those affected by ARFID.