EMORY UNIVERSITY

South Asians, despite lacking common heart disease risk factors, face elevated risks due to genetics and lifestyle factors, prompting research initiatives to understand and address these disparities.

Cornell-led team developed machine-learning models using cell-free RNA to diagnose pediatric inflammatory conditions like Kawasaki disease and MIS-C, monitoring organ health. Published in PNAS, the study highlights cell-free RNA's potential as a molecular diagnostic tool, with further research needed on its biological origins.

Kynurenine, a tryptophan metabolite, exacerbates Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by inhibiting astrocyte glycolysis and lactate production, starving neurons. IDO1 inhibitors, which block kynurenine production, could potentially treat AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

A study published in Science Translational Medicine identifies 34 protein modules in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), including those involved in autophagy, ubiquitination, and glycolysis. Proteins related to oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and neddylation were tied to ApoE4. In serum, these modules predicted AD up to two decades in advance. A clinical trial showed atomoxetine, a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, could mitigate some AD-associated pathways, particularly glycolysis.

U.S. reps ask FDA about biopharmaceutical companies' clinical trials with PLA entities; NSF OIG finds ISU inappropriately charged $9,709 on six awards; UMB's Eckert agrees to 8-year debarment for research misconduct; NIH bans AI use in peer reviews; OHRP finds Emory IRB members may lack clear understanding of approval conditions; NSF updates guidance on reporting multiyear foreign gifts or contracts.

QLIFE HOLDING AB faced financial and legal challenges in Q2 2024, including a significant net loss and arbitration loss against Aidian Oy, leading to bankruptcy filing for its Danish subsidiary. Despite these, operational progress was noted, including CRP biomarker trials in China and participation in a PKU research trial in the USA. The company aims to restructure and focus on the home-hospital segment and rare diseases.

Long COVID affects up to 18 million Americans, with symptoms like brain fog and fatigue. Research on Paxlovid's effectiveness in preventing long COVID shows mixed results, highlighting the need for clinical trials to determine its efficacy and optimal use.

A study of 125,000 U.S. adults found Black and Hispanic cardiac arrest survivors had worse outcomes than white patients, partly due to receiving care at lower-performing hospitals. Adjusting for hospital quality significantly improved outcomes for these groups, highlighting disparities in healthcare access and quality.

Psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA show promise in treating mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression in cancer patients, with studies highlighting their potential for long-lasting effects. However, further research is needed to confirm safety and efficacy, and treatments are conducted in controlled environments with therapeutic support.