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A recent report from investigators at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explores the physicochemical properties of oral drugs from 2000 to 2022. The researchers found that controlling size, lipophilicity, hydrogen bonding, flexibility, and shape can increase the chances of successful drug discovery. However, they also discovered that it is possible to find drug molecules that lie outside of the optimal descriptor ranges, particularly large molecules with a molecular weight over 500 Da. The study suggests that more accurate and robust means of understanding substructural classes, shape, and conformation are needed to improve success in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, explores the use of composites made from two-dimensional (2D) materials and bacterial cellulose (BC) for sustainable energy storage and environmental remediation. The study highlights the potential of these materials in meeting the increasing demand for sustainable energy sources and environmental protection. The researchers discuss the unique properties of 2D materials/BC composites and their applications in energy storage (supercapacitors and batteries) and environmental remediation (water treatment, antimicrobial activity, and environmental gas sensing). This comprehensive review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers working with 2D materials and BC and shape future research and industrial applications in this field. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on management strategies for WHO Grade 3 meningiomas based on a multi-centre UK study. Topics include the overall treatment approach involving primary surgical resection, the role of adjuvant radiotherapy in improving survival rates, and the outcomes of salvage treatments for disease recurrence.

A recent report from investigators at Newcastle University explores the final chapter of Frantz Fanon's book, The Wretched of the Earth, which includes psychiatric case histories that highlight the psychological impact of colonialism on the colonized. The report argues that Fanon's inclusion of these case histories in the text serves as a refusal of dominant psychiatric discourses and aims to imagine the effects of colonization in a way that challenges the pathologizing of racialized and colonized lives. The research concludes that Fanon's strategy is not a valuation of pathology, but rather a transvaluation of it. The study has been peer-reviewed and is available for further reading. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Newcastle University examines the role of different states in preventing and eliminating forced labor in the medical gloves supply chain. The study focuses on forced labor in the Malaysian medical gloves sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, linking production in Malaysia, end markets in the UK, and migrant-sending countries like Nepal. The research highlights the complex dynamics and regulatory barriers that contribute to forced labor in the value chain. The study argues that sustained and positive regulatory synergies among states are necessary to address this issue. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, explored the use of ibrutinib as part of risk-stratified therapy for posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). PTLD is a rare complication of solid organ transplantation, and current treatment involves a sequential, risk-stratified approach. The study found that while ibrutinib did not meet the threshold for clinically significant activity in treating PTLD, the goal of future research is to increase the proportion of patients who can be treated without cytotoxic chemotherapy. The study was supported by Blood Cancer UK, Janssen Biotech Inc, and Cancer Research UK. [Extracted from the article]

Newcastle University has developed a new assessment tool called pGALSplus to aid healthcare professionals in identifying and triaging children with musculoskeletal (MSK) presentations. The tool was developed through a three-phase approach involving stakeholder engagement, expert input, and feasibility testing. The final pGALSplus assessment comprises 26 clinical observations/skills and has been found to be feasible and acceptable, with high acceptability from families. The researchers propose that pGALSplus will facilitate decision-making and promote access to specialist care for children with MSK conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Newcastle University in the United Kingdom investigated the incidence of thyroid cancer in individuals who were exposed to radioactive iodine (I) as children during the Windscale nuclear reactor accident in 1957. The study analyzed data from cohorts of births in Cumbria, England, during the periods of potential exposure and non-exposure to I. The results showed no discernible increase in the risk of thyroid cancer among those exposed to I as young children. This study contributes to the understanding of the long-term effects of childhood exposure to low and moderate levels of radioactive iodine. [Extracted from the article]

Newcastle University in the United Kingdom is conducting a study on short bowel syndrome (SBS) in pediatric patients. SBS is a condition that often requires parenteral nutrition (PN) and can impact quality of life. The study aims to understand the mechanisms of intestinal rehabilitation (IR) in children with SBS and explore the relationship between the microbiome, IR, and quality of life. The study will collect clinical data and biological samples from at least 20 pediatric patients over a 2-year period. The results will be published in scientific journals and made available to participants and the public. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review conducted by Newcastle University in the United Kingdom examined the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure on adverse pregnancy outcomes. The review included 18 studies, eight of which focused on the general public and ten on occupational settings. The evidence regarding the effects of RF-EMF exposure on preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the general public was uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. In occupational settings, the evidence was also uncertain for miscarriage and congenital malformations. The researchers concluded that further studies with improved accuracy of exposure measurement are needed to determine the potential effects of RF-EMF exposure on female reproductive outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explored the accuracy and safety of an autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) clinical assistant, named Dora R1, in conducting telemedicine follow-up assessments for patients who underwent cataract surgery. The study found that Dora R1 demonstrated a high level of accuracy, with a sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 86%, and showed agreement with ophthalmic specialists in all parameters. The AI system also demonstrated feasibility and cost benefits compared to standard care. However, patients expressed concerns about the lack of a human element in cases with complications. The researchers concluded that further evaluation in real-world implementation is needed to provide additional evidence of safety and effectiveness. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Department of Dermatology in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, discusses the treatment of Pyoderma Gangrenosum (PG), an ulcerative inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the lower legs. The use of biologic medications to treat PG is increasing, but there is limited evidence to guide treatment choices. A survey of dermatologists in the UK showed that prednisolone is the most common first-line treatment for PG, while biologics are used as second-line therapy by 66% of clinicians. However, 19% of clinicians have had their prescribing requests for biologics declined. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment strategies for PG. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Newcastle University explores the impact of Pride events on the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. The study found that LGBTQ+ minorities often face stigma, discrimination, and social prejudice, leading to experiences of shame and isolation. Pride events provide a sense of community and hope for LGBTQ+ individuals, helping to combat these negative experiences. The study emphasizes the importance of interventions and support at the grassroots and community level to empower LGBTQ+ groups and improve mental health outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom discusses the social practices of food bank volunteer work. The research highlights the rise in demand for emergency food aid and the impact of Covid-19 on food banks. The study identifies key social practices such as helping others, deploying coping strategies, and creating atmospheres, which are sometimes influenced by faith-based practices. The analysis provides insights into the functioning of these spaces of care and encounter and suggests avenues for future research. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, examined the cost savings and health impacts of improving the quality of endoscopy services. The researchers constructed a model to estimate the costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) for individuals attending high, middle, or low-performing trusts. The results showed that attending a high-performing trust led to QALY gains and cost savings compared to attending a middle or low-performing trust. If all low and middle-performing trusts were improved to the level of a high-performing trust, the English National Health Service could save approximately £5 million per year. [Extracted from the article]

A pilot study conducted by researchers from Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, explored the use of virtual reality (VR) relaxation experiences to alleviate stress in parents of children with autism. The study involved 18 caregivers who were exposed to VR simulated natural environments for 15 minutes in a single session. The results showed that interacting with these simulated environments in VR improved caregivers' state mood and reduced their perceived stress for up to seven days. The researchers suggest that future studies should further investigate these findings with larger samples and longer follow-up periods. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Northumbria University explores the psychological impact of living with sequelae after meningitis. The study analyzed blog posts from one hundred individuals who self-reported experiencing after-effects of meningitis. The findings revealed three main themes: struggling to adjust to the new normal, navigating possibilities for positivity, and the impact of knowledge and support. The report suggests that consistent and structured after-care, as well as self-regulatory models of illness perception, could benefit patients. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and assess their widespread applicability and financial feasibility. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Newcastle University aimed to understand the care needs, care arrangements, and burden of care for people with dementia in Northern Tanzania. The study found that levels of impairment in instrumental activities of daily living were high among the participants, and carer burden was moderate. Female carers were found to experience higher levels of burden. The researchers concluded that further research is needed to explore this difference and identify interventions to support care needs and reduce carer burden. [Extracted from the article]

Newcastle University has collaborated with the conect4children (c4c) project and the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) to develop the Pediatrics User Guide (PUG), which aims to standardize and reuse data in pediatric clinical trials. The PUG consists of cross-cutting data items that are routinely collected in pediatric clinical trials, addressing the lack of child-specific CDISC standards. The development of the PUG involved several stages, including scoping, modeling, and review. The PUG has been published on the CDISC website and is intended to facilitate efficient planning and delivery of pediatric clinical trials. The long-term use of the PUG will enable the pooling of data from multiple trials, which is particularly important for medical domains with small populations. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on atrial fibrillation (AF), a heart disorder. The report highlights the history of AF treatment and the emergence of catheter ablation as a potential solution. However, the report also acknowledges that not all patients benefit from this approach and questions whether AF should be considered a single condition. The report presents novel insights into the electrophysiologic characteristics of AF and suggests that further research is needed to validate these findings. The research was conducted at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, have published a report on the CDC and FDA. The report focuses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on marginalized groups, such as women, single parents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic peoples. The researchers argue for an inclusive feminist approach to challenge oppressive narratives and dismantle gender binaries. The research concludes by emphasizing the importance of writing differently and subverting gendered "othering" in times of crisis. The full report can be accessed in the journal Gender Work and Organization. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explored the impact of long-term physical conditions on the mental health of children and young people. Specifically, the study focused on the use of art therapy as a psychosocial intervention for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The study found that art therapy groups, consisting of online sessions facilitated by a registered art psychotherapist, were accessible and acceptable to participants. Young people reported personal benefits from the therapy, such as the opportunity to connect with others who have similar conditions, while parents observed positive changes in their children's behavior. The study suggests that further research should be conducted to assess the effectiveness of these types of interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in the United Kingdom explored the association between body mass index (BMI) and the number of immune modulation therapies used in children and young people with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). The study found that overweight and obese individuals with JIA received more therapies compared to those of normal weight. However, the study had limitations, such as the lack of data on corticosteroid use and physical activity. The researchers suggest further research to evaluate optimal dosing of immunomodulation in individuals with high BMI. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, explores the extraction of advanced materials from residual cocoa biomass for use in nanotherapeutic solutions. The study compares various extraction processes and identifies 124 compounds in the extracted biocompounds, including tartaric acid and gluconic acid. These biocompounds are then used to develop Layer-by-Layer multifunctionalized nanoparticles (LbL-MNPs) that demonstrate enhanced metabolic activity and biocompatibility, as well as a protective effect against oxidative stress on human dermal fibroblast cells. The research highlights the potential of revalorizing cocoa pod-husk biomass for biomedical applications. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explores the potential application of yeasts in the treatment of wastewater. Yeasts have shown the ability to remove pollutants from wastewater at low production costs and under non-sterile conditions. The study provides an overview of advancements in yeast treatment and its effectiveness in treating wastewater, highlighting its adaptability to varying treatment conditions. While laboratory-scale trials have shown improvement, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of yeast treatment at an industrial scale. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research on liver diseases and conditions conducted in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. The study aimed to assess the reliability of clinicians in staging liver fibrosis using non-invasive fibrosis tests (NITs). Six experienced hepatologists independently staged 230 patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) using different combinations of NITs. The study found that adhering to recommended algorithmic approaches using NITs tended to be more accurate than less-structured clinician assessments. The research suggests that sequential use of FIB-4 and vibration controlled transient elastography (VCTE) performed better than clinician-based assessments. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Newcastle University in the United Kingdom have developed a method for manufacturing fully autologous human skin equivalents for in vitro testing of therapeutic antibodies. The study utilized bioprinting and Alvetex scaffold-based culture systems to create scalable human skin models. The researchers demonstrated that these skin equivalents can be used to identify adverse immune reactions during the preclinical stages of drug development. This study provides proof of concept for the use of bioprinted skin models in high-throughput screening of biologics. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Northumbria in the United Kingdom explores the e-initiatives that emerged during the coronavirus outbreak in Italy. The study focuses on four specific initiatives: the hashtags '#iorestoacasa' (I stay at home) and '#andratuttobene' (everything will be alright), performances on balconies, influencers' campaigns, and altruism and e-parochialism. These initiatives demonstrate the benefits of mediated solidarity and highlight the capacity of Information and Communication Technologies to promote altruism, fight parochialism, develop a sense of community, and connect individuals at various levels. The research concludes that the pandemic has created a paradoxical form of collective individualized and mediated solidarity. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, aimed to develop a taxonomy of lies for communicating with individuals with moderate to severe dementia. The researchers observed and recorded lies told to dementia patients by professional caregivers and identified six categories of lies: blatant, avoidance, familiarity, props, banter, and going along with. The study found that both planned and spontaneous lies can be effective interventions for individuals with dementia, but healthcare professionals should be aware of their motivations and the impact on patients. The researchers developed the Lie ARM (affective reflective model) as a tool to help staff reflect on their practice and determine the therapeutic value of a proposed lie. [Extracted from the article]

Newcastle University has conducted a systematic review of reviews to identify effective interventions for preventing mental health problems in at-risk children and young people. The study found evidence to support both selective and indicated interventions in various populations and settings, with a focus on children and young people in their mid-years and early adolescence. The research suggests that early selective interventions combining risk reduction and resilience-enhancing approaches may be effective in reducing mental health problems. This study provides valuable insights for addressing the leading cause of childhood disability worldwide. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, explored how young women aged 18-24 understand and engage with the NHS cervical screening leaflet. The study found that young women faced interpretation difficulties, particularly regarding HPV assessment, screening results, additional tests/treatment, and screening risks. Lower interpretation accuracy was associated with lower numeracy scores and non-white ethnicity. The study recommended implementing a digital invitation with simplified gist representation, targeted behavior change techniques, videos, and interactive tools to enhance education and promote screening behavior. Future research should focus on using digital tools and strategies to address existing barriers related to interpretation and engagement. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom examined the effects of sacubitril/valsartan treatment on patients with non-obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The study, which involved 115 patients, found that after 16 weeks of treatment, there was no significant change in exercise capacity, cardiac structure, or function in the group receiving sacubitril/valsartan compared to the control group. The researchers concluded that while the treatment was well tolerated, it did not have a significant impact on HCM. This study provides valuable insights into the potential limitations of sacubitril/valsartan therapy for HCM. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, have conducted a first-in-human pilot study on a novel electrically-passive metamaterial-inspired resonator-based ocular sensor embedded contact lens for monitoring intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuations in glaucoma patients. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness with no cure, but early treatment and effective monitoring can slow its progression. The contact lens contains a sensor that can be measured using a wearable antenna patch, and initial data suggests that the system can continuously assess the variation of IOP. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in Contact Lens and Anterior Eye. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explored the nature of social anxiety and experiences of therapy in autistic individuals. The study found that social anxiety in autistic individuals is influenced by distinct factors related to their experiences in the social world. Many participants reported negative experiences in therapy, feeling that therapists did not understand their social fears or adapt the therapy process to their individual needs. The study proposes a "distinct" model of social anxiety specific to autistic individuals and provides practical recommendations for therapists working with this population. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, have developed a sustainable bioink for tissue engineering using cocoa waste. The study optimized a protocol to extract pectin from cocoa pod husk, resulting in a bioink with promising properties for tissue engineering applications. The bioink, derived from cocoa waste, demonstrated rapid gelation, superior water uptake properties, improved interconnectivity and anisotropic porosity, enhanced mechanical properties, and maintained cell viability. This research offers a circular economy approach to valorize cocoa waste and has potential implications for sustainable tissue engineering. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, has developed a new method to confirm the ability of novel compounds to chelate iron, which is important in cancer treatment. The researchers describe a quantifiable and inexpensive cell-free fluorescent method that uses the commercially available dye Calcein to measure the chelation ability of these compounds. This method offers a cost-effective and high-throughput assay for screening potential chelator compounds. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Visualized Experiments. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Newcastle University in the United Kingdom examined the feasibility and acceptability of a leucine-enriched glycomacropeptide (GMP) drink and its effects on appetite in older adults. The study found that the GMP drink was less palatable than whey protein isolate and raised doubts about the acceptability of GMP supplementation due to skepticism about supplements and a preference for food. The researchers concluded that providing trusted nutritional advice and fortifying food may be more effective strategies for increasing protein intake in older adults. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in the United Kingdom discusses the findings of a study on the treatment of pediatric convulsive status epilepticus, a common neurological emergency. The study explores the use of inhaled carbogen, a mixture of 95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide, as an adjunctive treatment to standard medical management. The researchers found that carbogen may be a safe and effective addition to the management of convulsive status epilepticus, with potential for use by paramedics, families, and school staff. Further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Northumbria University explores the impact of the 1865-66 British Rinderpest outbreak on British agriculture, animal disease control, and veterinary medicine. The research suggests that the outbreak also had long-term significance for the relationship between the Church of England and non-human animals. During this time, Anglican churches began incorporating animal themes and prayers into their services, and clergy started speaking about animals in sermons. The study argues for the unique status of cattle in modern Christianity and highlights the heightened awareness of the bonds and interdependencies between humans and farmed animals during the outbreak. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, aimed to improve sleep on psychiatric wards for children and young people. The study developed a package called TeenSleepWell, which included measures to create a better sleep environment, educate staff about sleep, screen for sleep disorders, and raise awareness of the benefits and side-effects of sleep aids. Over a two-year period, the evaluation of the package showed enhanced in-patient care, with 57% of patients able to have a protected sleep period. The study concluded that personalized sleep care plans should be a standard of care for in-patient mental health wards for children and adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Great North Children's Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, discusses the management of pediatric monomorphic post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (mPTLD) with low-intensity treatment. The study aimed to define outcomes for children treated with low-intensity therapies in UK and Spanish centers. The results showed that low-intensity treatments, such as rituximab monotherapy and low-dose chemo-immunotherapy, were effective in managing mPTLD in pediatric patients. The study also highlighted the importance of escalating to more intensive therapies for inadequately controlled patients. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into the management of mPTLD in pediatric populations. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom have conducted a study on gene therapy for retinal diseases. The researchers highlight the global challenge of blindness, with degenerative retinal diseases accounting for approximately 26% of cases. While gene therapy and other treatments offer hope for vision restoration, they are expensive and only benefit a small number of patients. The study focuses on the use of pluripotent stem cells to create in vitro models of retinal diseases, which can be used for drug discovery, experimental therapy testing, biomarker identification, and toxicity studies. The researchers emphasize the need for scalability, standardization, and the incorporation of vasculature and immune cells into retinal organoids. They also advocate for high-throughput automation and advanced micro-physiological systems to better understand the interactions between different components of the retina. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Progress in Retinal and Eye Research. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom explores the role of the c-Rel protein in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a leading cause of cancer-related death. The study found that low expression of c-Rel correlated with increased tumor cell proliferation and mutational burden, as well as advanced disease. In mice, the deletion of c-Rel led to more tumors with higher proliferative rates and increased DNA damage. The researchers also discovered that inhibiting c-Rel as an adjuvant therapy increased the effectiveness of DNA damaging agents and reduced HCC growth. [Extracted from the article]

A new report presents fresh data on clinical trial research conducted at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. The study focused on the use of accelerated corneal collagen crosslinking (ACXL) to treat patients with progressive keratoconus. The study included 96 eyes of 78 patients and compared continuous ACXL (c-ACXL) and pulsed ACXL (p-ACXL) protocols. The results showed that both protocols were equally safe and effective in stabilizing the progression of keratoconus, making them potential alternatives to the conventional Dresden protocol. The study found no major complications associated with the treatments. [Extracted from the article]