Cancer treatments are taking a more holistic approach
New national guidelines say cancer patients should practice more mind-body techniques to ease anxiety and depression. These include mindfulness meditation, yoga, hypnosis, and music therapy. Supplements to treat mental health issues were not recommended because they can cause harmful interactions with cancer medications. The guidelines are published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (University of Rochester).
Should you make friends with a robot?
The Survey Center on American Life reports that the number of adults without close friends has quadrupled since the 90s. Scientists think AI could be the solution. While human friends are still the gold standard, research in the journal Science Robotics shows that robots can ease loneliness and reduce stress. These companion bots could also mimic the voices of old friends or loved ones who’ve passed away (Duke University).
Malaria is becoming harder to fight than ever before
Parasites now have a mutation that makes them impossible to find with diagnostic testing and resistant to treatment. This new strain of malaria-causing species have shown up in Ethiopia and researchers think it could increase both cases and deaths from the disease. Research published in Nature Microbiology reveals the need for new interventions as soon as possible to curb the spread of this evolved parasite (Brown University).
Scientists are genetically editing trees to save the environment
CRISPR is a technology that can modify the DNA of living organisms. A study published in the journal Science reveals how researchers are using this method to genetically modify and breed popular trees. This will help make fiber production for products like paper and diapers more sustainable and cheaper (NC State).
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