Engineering the gut microbiome just became a reality

Beneficial bacteria occupy specific regions in the gut, contributing to our health via the microbiome. A new study has identified the genes that good bacteria use to colonize these regions, opening the door to creating engineered probiotics.

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World’s most popular OTC painkiller not so safe for over-65s

Taking one of the most widely-used painkillers for a prolonged period increases the risk of serious complications in older folks, according to a new study. It may mean rethinking the drug’s use as a first-line treatment for chronic conditions.

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Chronic pain lowered by better-quality diet, regardless of body weight

A new study has found that eating a better-quality diet was directly associated with a reduction in chronic pain severity, regardless of body fat. The findings suggest that upping diet quality could be an affordable and effective way to manage pain.

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Optical fibers monitor brain for deadly post-injury complications

A new study has demonstrated that a tiny bundle of optical fibers can continuously, accurately, and simultaneously measure six biomarkers of brain health, helping to prevent serious complications that can follow a traumatic brain injury.

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Tetanus vaccine delivered by skin cream instead of needle

If you were given a choice of vaccine delivery method, would you rather a needle or a skin cream? Thought so. Well, the latter might be a viable option soon, as Stanford scientists have used a topical cream to strongly vaccinate mice against tetanus.

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Genital herpes affects tens of millions of under-50s worldwide

A study estimating the number of under-50s worldwide who are living with genital herpes has highlighted changing sexual behaviors and the need for many countries to consider more effective ways of curbing the transmission of this incurable disease.

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“Micro-flowers” may one day deliver life-saving drugs within the body

Whether a medication is taken orally or intravenously, it ends up traveling throughout the body instead of going solely to the place it's needed. Such could soon no longer be the case, however, thanks to a new microparticle that looks like a flower.

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Rats on cocaine for the first time reveal individual nature of getting hooked

While scientists seem to love giving cocaine to rats, 27 rodents getting high (for the first time) on the lab's supply uncovers intriguing insights into how some individuals appear wired for addiction, where 'averse cues' fail to deter drug use.

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First-ever workplace ‘neurodiverse toolkit’ rolls out, but will it work?

People with disabilities face many obstacles navigating the workforce, and for the neurodiverse population, having conditions that can 'hide in plain sight' present unique challenges. This initiative wants to change it – whether it works, is another thing.

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