Sarcopenia has been linked to dementia risk, but previous studies have focused on older adults. Japanese researchers assessed several muscle-related indices and cognitive function in middle-aged individuals. They found that phase angle—a measure of muscle quality—was strongly associated with cognitive function, especially in women. A significant association with memory performance was also observed in both genders. It could serve as an early marker for the risk of cognitive decline in clinical screenings.

A new scientific study led by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance researchers sheds light on the social dynamics that drive the continued consumption of bear bile in Việt Nam, revealing that gift-giving among close social networks plays a crucial role in sustaining demand. The findings suggest that conservation efforts could be more effective if they focus on shifting behaviors within influential social groups rather than broad public awareness campaigns. 

A new, easily adopted, 3D-printed device will enable scientists to create lab models of human tissue with even greater control and complexity. The tiny device allows more precision in the composition and special arrangement of tissues in order to study multiple tissue types together.  This capabilty would assist in modeling complex diseases, such as neuromuscular disorders, heart damage, and gum inflammation.

City of Hope will present novel cancer treatment approaches and combinations, leading-edge targeted therapies, and supportive care interventions at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting taking place May 30 to June 3 in Chicago and online.

A collaborative team of researchers led by vision scientists from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania have developed new tools to improve gene therapy in advanced stages of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) such as retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis. “This study addresses one of the biggest hurdles in IRD treatment: how to deliver effective gene therapy after a large portion of the retina has already degenerated,” says Raghavi Sudharsan of Penn Vet.