DR. KENNETH M. MORRISON, MD

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This study examined the health effects of organochlorine pesticides, which are chemicals linked to health problems even though many have been banned. The researchers analyzed 40 previous studies and found that exposure to these pesticides increased the chances of health issues by 28%. Specifically, compounds like DDE and HCH showed particularly strong links to diseases, with an increase in risk of 41% and 43%, respectively. This research highlights the ongoing dangers of these chemicals and underlines the need for continued monitoring and regulation. Who this helps: This benefits patients, health policymakers, and researchers focusing on environmental health.

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Researchers studied new forms of a cancer treatment called boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) to improve the delivery of boron to tumors in mice. They developed special compounds, dipeptides, that allowed them to use much higher doses of boron compared to the traditional treatment, resulting in complete tumor shrinkage in 56% of the cases treated, whereas the standard treatment only temporarily slowed tumor growth. This is important because it could lead to more effective cancer treatments that not only target the tumors better but also activate the immune system to fight cancer. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients by providing potentially more effective treatment options.

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This study focused on a new surgical technique for treating degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS), a common cause of pain in dogs caused by pressure on spinal nerves. Researchers developed and tested a less invasive procedure called lateral full-endoscopic lumbosacral foraminotomy (LELF) in dogs, finding that it was successful without major complications. They observed a significant increase in the space around the nerves after surgery, with a CT scan showing the volume increasing from about 315 mm³ to 605 mm³, and many dogs reported less pain and improved quality of life after six months. Who this helps: This benefits dogs suffering from spinal nerve pain, as well as their owners and veterinarians looking for effective treatment options.

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Researchers studied the effectiveness of the RSVpreF vaccine in preventing hospitalizations due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults aged 74-79 in the UK during the 2024-25 RSV season. They found that 35% of the 11,117 hospitalized patients had received the vaccine, and overall, vaccinated individuals had a 75% lower chance of being hospitalized due to RSV compared to unvaccinated individuals. This is significant because it shows that the RSVpreF vaccine provides strong protection for older adults, who are particularly vulnerable to severe illness from RSV. Who this helps: This benefits older adults and healthcare providers by reducing hospitalizations from RSV.

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This study looked at how different diagnostic standards for gestational diabetes affect pregnancy outcomes in 840 pregnant women at two hospital centers in Montreal. Researchers found that women with mild hyperglycemia (a less severe form of high blood sugar) who didn't receive treatment were three times more likely to have larger babies than those who were treated for gestational diabetes based on higher glucose levels. This matters because not treating mild hyperglycemia can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and their healthcare providers understand the importance of monitoring and treating mild high blood sugar.

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This study looked at body fat distribution, specifically central obesity and visceral fat, in 70 long-term survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who had been cancer-free for over ten years. The findings revealed that a significant portion of these survivors, 82.9%, had waist-to-height ratios indicating a high risk for cardiovascular problems, with 25.7% having dangerously high levels of visceral fat. This is important because it highlights that many survivors of childhood cancer may face increased risks for heart health issues, suggesting that routine checks for abdominal fat could help identify those at risk earlier. Who this helps: This helps childhood cancer survivors and their doctors.

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Researchers developed a new tool called MATES to help evaluate how thoroughly meta-analyses in environmental sciences are reported. They created a list of 14 important items to check in these studies, and testing showed that MATES can be reliably used, with an agreement rate of about 89% when evaluating its effectiveness in 50 meta-analyses. This tool matters because it improves transparency and helps ensure that meta-analyses provide accurate and useful information for researchers and policy-makers. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, editors, and anyone involved in environmental science studies.

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This study examined a new compound called boronotyrosine (BTS) as a potential treatment for head and neck cancer using a method known as Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). The research found that BTS could deliver more boron to tumors than the current standard treatment (boronophenylalanine) — with an average boron concentration in tumors of 89.3 parts per million (ppm) for BTS compared to 57.2 ppm for BPA. This improved delivery leads to better targeting of the cancer while reducing radiation exposure to healthy tissues, which is important for patient safety and treatment effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits patients with head and neck cancer.

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This study looked at a radiation therapy method called CyberKnife to treat localized prostate cancer by targeting the most affected area while trying to minimize side effects. Researchers found that two years after treatment, 35% of patients experienced some level of urinary issues, while only 5% had gastrointestinal problems, and there was no severe toxicity reported. Overall, quality of life remained stable, although sexual function did decline slightly for some men, showing the treatment is generally safe but may affect sexual health. Who this helps: This research benefits prostate cancer patients looking for effective treatment options with fewer side effects.

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This study looked at how to fairly manage authorship in academic research projects to reduce conflicts among contributors. The authors introduced a system called Dragon Kill Points, which helps track and recognize everyone's contributions based on five important principles. By implementing this system, research teams can reduce disagreements and ensure that all contributors are acknowledged, leading to a more inclusive and fair process. Who this helps: This helps researchers and academic institutions improve teamwork and recognition in collaborative projects.

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This study investigated how certain brain networks, known as attractor-based networks, can create rhythmic patterns similar to those used for movement in animals. The researchers successfully designed a network that can alternate between five different walking patterns of a four-legged animal, showing how it counts and transitions between these movements. This discovery is important because it helps us understand how the brain organizes complex movements and rhythms, which could lead to better treatments for movement disorders. Who this helps: This helps patients with movement disorders and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how effective the flu vaccine was during the 2025/26 season, when a particular version of the virus called A(H3N2) subclade K was widespread in Europe. Researchers found that the vaccine worked 25-45% of the time for all age groups, but it was more effective for children, with effectiveness rates between 47-72%. This is important because it shows that while the vaccine may not be perfect, it is still beneficial, and vaccination should continue alongside other ways to prevent the flu. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children, and healthcare providers in managing flu outbreaks.

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This study looked at the bacteria living in wireworms, which are pests that harm crops in the Canadian Prairies. Researchers found that wireworms host over 400 types of bacteria, with a few key types making up most of these communities. Understanding these bacteria is important because it may lead to better ways to manage wireworm populations and protect crops. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study looked at 23 dogs diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) that also had swollen lymph nodes. The researchers found that many of these dogs, 78% to be exact, had low blood cell counts, and 69% of the dogs given treatment lived for at least 30 days. This research helps veterinarians identify AML more accurately when it affects lymph nodes, which can improve treatment decisions for affected dogs. Who this helps: This information benefits veterinarians and dog owners dealing with AML in pets.

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This study looked at how mothers and fathers coparented during the COVID-19 pandemic by comparing their experiences with a survey and open-ended questions. Although their overall coparenting scores were similar, fathers reported doing more tasks and supporting each other more, while mothers felt there was more conflict and undermining behavior. This matters because understanding these dynamics can help families navigate the stresses of parenting, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps families improve their coparenting relationships during tough situations.

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This study looked at how Hospice and Palliative Medicine (HPM) fellowship programs assess the skills and performance of their trainees. It found that nearly half of the program directors use four or fewer assessment tools, and while 83% of fellows felt confident in these tools, only 68% of directors did. The data revealed a significant lack of training and resources for program directors to effectively assess their fellows, highlighting a need for improved faculty development and collaboration with fellows in creating better assessment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits HPM program directors and training fellows, ultimately leading to better education and care for patients.

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This study looked at how having multiple rare genetic variants affects the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The researchers found that about 6% of people with ALS have a higher risk of the disease if they carry several rare gene variants, compared to those with just one variant. However, having these multiple variants did not seem to affect how quickly the disease progresses or how long someone lives with ALS. Who this helps: Patients with ALS and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on a new drug called ACT-1016-0707 that targets a specific receptor involved in lung fibrosis, a serious lung disease. The researchers found that ACT-1016-0707 effectively prevents inflammation and scarring in various lab models, showing it works better than other similar drugs. This matters because fibrosis can lead to severe lung damage and breathing difficulties, and improving treatment options is crucial for patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with pulmonary fibrosis and doctors seeking better treatment options for them.

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This study focused on improving how scientists analyze changes in biological data by introducing a new method that looks at both average results and how varied those results are across different studies. The researchers found that by using their new approach, they could better understand shifts in biological responses to environmental changes, especially when considering factors like study design or environmental differences. This is important because it allows for clearer insights into how living systems respond to changes in their environment, which can guide conservation and management efforts. Who this helps: This helps researchers and conservationists understand the impacts of environmental changes on ecosystems.

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This study looked at how exposure to pesticides affects social behavior among fish, focusing on interactions between fish of the same species. The researchers analyzed data from 37 studies involving 31 different pesticides and 11 fish species. They found that pesticide exposure generally reduces social interactions among fish, especially in courtship behaviors, which may lead to fewer successful breeding outcomes. Who this helps: This helps fish conservationists and environmental scientists understand the risks pesticides pose to fish populations and aquatic ecosystems.

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This study looked at the relationship between diet quality and levels of certain chemicals, known as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in the blood of Canadian children aged 7 to 11. They found that higher saturated fat in the diet was linked to increased levels of one type of PFAS (PFOS), while a higher protein intake was associated with lower levels of other types of PFAS like PFOA and PFOS. Understanding these relationships is important because PFAS exposure can lead to health issues, especially in young children whose bodies are still developing. Who this helps: This research benefits parents and healthcare providers who want to improve children's diets to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

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This study looked at how to better support young people with food allergies as they move from pediatric to adult medical care. The researchers proposed a team approach that includes various specialists, like adult allergists and dietitians, to ensure these patients get comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. This is important because a smooth transition will help young adults continue their immunotherapy treatment effectively and avoid serious allergic reactions as they grow older. Who this helps: This helps patients with food allergies transitioning to adult care and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new type of radiation treatment for localized prostate cancer that uses MRI to adjust doses on a daily basis. Researchers found that patients receiving this MRI-guided therapy had a median dose of 40.3 Gy to their tumors, which is better than the 38.2 Gy given with standard treatment, meaning patients can receive a more accurate and effective dose while reducing harm to surrounding organs. This is important because it can lead to better cancer control while minimizing side effects, particularly for patients with higher risks or certain anatomical challenges. Who this helps: This helps prostate cancer patients, especially those with complex conditions or higher risks.

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Researchers studied a new treatment for head and neck cancer called Boronotyrosine (BTS), comparing it with the current standard treatment, Boronophenylalanine (BPA). They discovered that BTS not only worked better at sending medication to tumors but also had no harmful side effects even at high doses. For instance, BTS led to a reduction in tumor size after just 6 minutes of radiation, while the standard treatment showed less effectiveness and even tumor regrowth. Who this helps: This helps patients with head and neck cancer by offering a potentially more effective and safer treatment option.

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This study looked at how researchers in ecology and evolution use and understand findings from meta-analyses, which are studies that combine results from multiple studies to get clearer insights. The researchers found that only about 21% of the articles published in 2023 cited meta-analyses, and when they did, they often ignored important details like the size of the effects and the limitations of the data. This matters because better understanding and citing meta-analyses can lead to stronger research and conclusions in these fields. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists in ecology and evolution.

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This study looked at how people feel during and after a type of cancer treatment known as MR Linac imaging, which uses MRI technology to guide radiation therapy. Out of 447 participants, 65% felt no anxiety before their scans, but those getting scans for head and neck issues reported higher anxiety and discomfort. This is important because understanding these experiences can help improve the process for patients, making it easier and more comfortable for them in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing MR Linac imaging, particularly those with head and neck conditions.

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The study looked at a simple and affordable way for people to measure the amount of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in water by using a white mug, a piece of laminated white paper, and a smartphone camera. Researchers found that this method provided DOC concentration estimates that were close to those from more complex lab equipment, with a difference of about 8.2% on average. This matters because it makes it easier for everyday people to participate in monitoring water quality, especially in areas where expensive equipment isn't available. Who this helps: This helps citizens, educators, and environmental groups interested in water quality.

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This study looked into how harmful chemicals known as PFAS (often found in various products) build up in food chains, affecting both ecosystems and potentially human health. Researchers analyzed data from 119 food webs and found that, on average, the concentration of PFAS doubles with each step up the food chain, meaning the top predators can have much higher levels of these substances. For instance, one specific PFAS, called F-53B, showed even higher magnification, suggesting it accumulates more than others, which raises concerns since it is increasingly used without much regulation. Who this helps: This information benefits environmental scientists, policymakers, and communities concerned about ecological and human health risks from PFAS.

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This study looked at how the Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) program in Scotland adapted to using telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that 42% of family nurses preferred a mix of face-to-face and remote support for future FNP delivery, despite some challenges in building relationships and recruiting clients with complex needs. This is important because it shows that remote services can effectively support young mothers, particularly those who felt isolated during the pandemic, and suggests a flexible approach could benefit many clients moving forward. Who this helps: This helps first-time young mothers and family nurses providing support.

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This study focused on a new potential treatment for diseases involving excessive tissue scarring, known as fibrosis, by targeting a specific receptor (LPAR1) in the body. Researchers found a compound that effectively blocks this receptor, showing promise in lab tests, particularly in preventing skin leakage in mice. This is important because it could lead to new medications that help alleviate conditions related to fibrosis, benefiting many patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with fibrotic diseases and their doctors.

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Researchers developed a new drug called ACT-1016-0707, which effectively blocks a specific receptor (LPA1) involved in fibrotic diseases, conditions where tissue becomes thick and stiff. In tests, this drug was found to be more stable and easier for the body to use compared to earlier versions, potentially making it a strong candidate for treating these diseases. This matters because effective treatments for fibrotic diseases are limited, and this new drug could offer a better option for patients. Who this helps: Patients suffering from fibrotic diseases.

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This study looked at how exposure to pesticides affects the behavior of zebrafish, a common model organism in environmental science. Researchers found that many important pesticides, like neonicotinoids, haven't been thoroughly studied, and that many past studies didn't share key details about the zebrafish used, such as their sex and age. Understanding these factors is crucial because it helps shape future research and can lead to better policies for protecting aquatic life. Who this helps: This helps researchers and policymakers focused on environmental safety and conservation.

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This study looked at a treatment called sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for children aged 4 to 18 with food allergies, particularly those at higher risk if they used a different treatment called oral immunotherapy (OIT). Among the 188 patients treated, only 4 (about 2%) had to use epinephrine for allergic reactions, and 70% of a smaller group successfully passed a food challenge after starting with SLIT, thus avoiding the more dangerous OIT buildup. This matters because it shows that SLIT is a safer option for these higher-risk patients and can be effective in helping them manage their food allergies. Who this helps: This helps children with food allergies and their families by providing safer treatment options.

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In March 2023, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario changed its policy on end-of-life care, shifting from a requirement for doctors to perform CPR unless a patient specifically says not to, to a more flexible approach where doctors can decide not to perform treatments they believe won't help the patient. This change aligns with a 2019 court ruling that emphasizes offering only treatments that are beneficial. The new policy is important because it acknowledges the need for more thoughtful decisions in end-of-life care, which could prevent unnecessary suffering for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families navigating end-of-life decisions.

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This study looked at a new way to treat localized prostate cancer using a type of focused radiation therapy called CyberKnife. Twenty patients received a special dose of radiation that was higher in the areas of most concern, and the results showed that 25% of them experienced mild urinary side effects, while 30% had mild gastrointestinal issues. Importantly, no patients had serious long-term side effects, and none showed signs of cancer returning after treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer.

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This study looked at the connection between COVID-19 and the development of a condition called sarcoidosis, which involves inflammation in various organs. Researchers found 15 patients diagnosed with sarcoidosis after having COVID-19, with an average age of about 46 years, and a diagnosis occurring roughly 56 days after the COVID-19 infection. This is important because it highlights a possible link between COVID-19 and a new risk of sarcoidosis, which can affect the lungs and other organs, leading to serious health issues. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have recovered from COVID-19, doctors monitoring their long-term health, and those at risk of autoimmune conditions.

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This study looked at a person with TANGO2 deficiency disorder, a rare neurodegenerative disease, who experienced severe episodes of uncontrolled sympathetic nervous system activity, known as paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH). Despite thorough investigations, doctors couldn't find a specific cause for these episodes, and treatments did not work, leading to a focus on providing comfort instead. This finding highlights that PSH can occur in patients with TANGO2 deficiency, indicating a need for more research to improve treatment options for the disorder. Who this helps: Patients with TANGO2 deficiency disorder and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the larynx (voice box) moves when people swallow and breathe, using special MRI technology to help improve radiation therapy plans for patients with early-stage throat cancer. Researchers found that the larynx moves mostly up and down, and while swallowing is infrequent, accounting for the larynx's resting motion is enough to create effective treatment plans. Importantly, using advanced radiation techniques can lower the amount of radiation exposure to nearby organs like the carotid arteries, which may reduce the risk of complications in the future. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, as it aims to improve treatment safety and effectiveness.

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This study looked at how to measure the success of a new health visiting program in Scotland that has been helping families with young children since 2016. Researchers developed 18 indicators that track various child health outcomes, such as vaccination rates (93.6% of kids had all their shots by age two) and obesity rates (with only 63.2% having their BMI recorded by age two and a half). Understanding these outcomes matters because it helps improve support for families, ensuring children get a good start in life. Who this helps: This benefits children and their families by providing better healthcare support.

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This study developed a new method to create high-quality, 3D images of lungs using text descriptions to guide the process. The researchers found that their approach, using a special model, performed better than previous techniques, particularly in capturing important lung details like fissures and airways. This matters because clearer and more accurate CT images can improve medical diagnoses and treatments. Who this helps: Patients and doctors who rely on precise imaging for lung health.

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This research studied how to detect heavy metals like lead in food and water using specialized sensors made from DNA. The scientists created a set of four DNA sensors to improve accuracy and found that their method could identify and measure different metals, even in mixtures, with lead detection capabilities as low as a tiny fraction of a part per million. This is important because it can help reduce exposure to toxic metals in our environment. Who this helps: Patients and communities concerned about heavy metal contamination in their food and water.

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This research paper studied how to make academic articles more visible online by examining 230 journals in the ecology and evolutionary biology fields. The findings showed that many authors do not effectively use key terms in their titles and abstracts, with 92% using repetitive keywords, which makes it harder for people to find their work. The researchers suggest making changes to journal guidelines to help researchers better reach their audience, such as allowing longer abstracts and using structured formats. Who this helps: This helps authors and researchers by making their work easier to find and read.

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This study examined how many lives were saved by COVID-19 vaccinations across 54 European countries from December 2020 to March 2023. The researchers found that vaccinations reduced deaths by 59% overall, saving about 1.6 million lives, with 96% of those saved being people aged 60 and older. This research highlights the critical role of vaccines, especially first booster doses during the Omicron wave, in protecting older adults from severe illness and death. Who this helps: This helps older adults and public health officials focus on vaccination efforts.

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The 2023 wildfire season in Canada was the worst ever, burning about 15 million hectares of forest from April to October. This was largely due to early snowmelt, ongoing drought in the west, and rapid drying out in the east, all made worse by climate change, which raised temperatures by 2.2°C compared to previous years. The wildfires led to over 200 communities being evacuated and put immense strain on firefighting efforts, showing just how serious and frequent wildfires may become in the future. Who this helps: This helps communities, firefighters, and policymakers who need to prepare for and respond to wildfires.

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This study focused on making exercise more accessible for people undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in rural and remote areas. Researchers created a virtual program for intradialytic cycling (IDC) to help improve symptoms like leg cramps and depression, but they found that only 22% of the targeted dialysis units adopted the program, falling short of the goal of 30%. Despite this, the program showed potential to help patients improve their quality of life and physical fitness. Who this helps: This benefits patients on dialysis who struggle with exercise options in remote areas.

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This study tested whether a satellite radar technique called APSIS-InSAR can detect the seasonal swelling and shrinking of tropical peat soils under dense forest in Malaysia. The radar signal penetrated the forest canopy well enough to measure surface movement at 20-meter resolution across the landscape. The approach could enable continuous, large-scale monitoring of peatland degradation — a major source of carbon emissions — that is currently very difficult to measure on the ground.