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Health Sciences

New Asthma Treatment

British scientists have achieved a major breakthrough in asthma treatment with the development of benralizumab, the first new therapy for asthma attacks in 50 years. A recent trial led by King’s College London revealed the injection to be 30% more effective than traditional steroid tablets, reducing the need for further treatment. Benralizumab, already approved for severe asthma, targets eosinophils—white blood cells that drive inflammation during asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups. A single dose administered during an attack was found to be four times more effective than standard steroid treatment, according to the study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine.

For decades, steroid tablets like prednisolone have been the primary treatment for asthma attacks despite their serious side effects, including diabetes and osteoporosis, and limited effectiveness for many patients. The trial compared benralizumab injections, steroid tablets, and a combination of both. Results showed that patients receiving benralizumab had significantly fewer treatment failures, reduced hospital visits, and improved quality of life after 90 days. Professor Mona Bafadhel, the lead investigator, described the findings as a "game-changer," noting the potential for patients to administer the injection at home, improving accessibility. Dr. Sanjay Ramakrishnan, a co-author, highlighted the critical need for updated treatments, particularly for COPD, the third leading cause of death globally.

This innovation brings hope to millions suffering from asthma and COPD, which together account for 3.8 million deaths annually worldwide. Patients like 77-year-old Geoffrey Pointing, who participated in the trial, praised the drug for its rapid relief of severe symptoms and absence of the side effects commonly associated with steroids. Dr. Samantha Walker of Asthma + Lung UK emphasized the importance of this breakthrough in revitalizing treatment options for these life-threatening conditions, addressing decades of stagnation in respiratory care.

Lifestyle

1 in 3 Americans Say They’ve ‘Made It’

A recent poll reveals that nearly one-third of Americans consider themselves to have “made it” financially, with millennials leading the way—more in this generation believe they’ve reached this milestone than any other. For those who haven’t yet, over half feel confident they’re on track to achieve financial success in their lifetime. Interestingly, the idea of “making it” has evolved, with the average net worth needed now pegged at $234,000.

External factors like rising interest rates and inflation are major hurdles, while personal spending habits also present challenges. Jessica Jones of BOK Financial Advisors emphasizes the value of small steps, such as starting a savings account, to overcome these barriers. Generational perspectives further shape money views, with Gen Z prioritizing spending on happiness and older generations favoring practicality.

Social media also plays a role, especially for younger generations, by influencing financial advice and perceptions of success. However, Americans generally prefer guidance from older individuals rather than peers. While financial success remains a personal milestone, these insights highlight evolving definitions shaped by generational and societal influences.

World News

The Lost Worlds

As glaciers and ice patches melt, they reveal a hidden archive of human history, uncovering artifacts and remains that shed light on ancient life, conflict, and innovation. Among the most remarkable discoveries is Ötzi, a 5,000-year-old man found in the Ötztal Alps in 1991. Preserved in ice for millennia, Ötzi carried a copper axe, unfinished tools, and medicinal mushrooms, suggesting he was on a hurried journey before succumbing to an arrow wound. His discovery has provided invaluable insights into prehistoric life in the Alps.

Glacial archaeology, the study of ancient artifacts revealed by melting ice, has unveiled not only prehistoric finds like Ötzi but also traces of Roman and medieval activity. For example, the discovery of a 17th-century woman’s body in the 1980s highlights the challenges of Alpine crossings during that era. These discoveries illustrate the complex and enduring relationship between humans and the high-altitude environments of the Alps, spanning thousands of years.

The melting of glaciers presents a unique opportunity to uncover historical treasures but also poses significant challenges. The ice that preserved these artifacts for millennia is disappearing, leaving many discoveries at risk of disintegration. Researchers emphasize the importance of public awareness, urging hikers and travelers in the Alps to report any new findings, as these remote sites are difficult to monitor. Without such efforts, valuable pieces of human history may be lost forever.

Mind Stretchers

❓️ 

I have a heart that doesn’t beat,
But in the kitchen, I’m quite a treat.
My leaves are tough, but inside I'm soft,
What am I?

Yesterday’s Mind Stretchers:

You're in a dark room with a candle, a wood stove, and a gas lamp. You only have one match, so what do you light first? — the match first! 🔥 Chris Hostetler got this first 🌞 

Be the first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected]

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.