Scientists have created pollen-free trees to reduce the number of hay fever sufferers.
Japanese researchers have found a common gene in specific trees that triggers the production of pollen – a substance that disperses seeds. With gene editing technology, they were able to remove this DNA strand and stop pollen production.
Studies show that around half of the UK population suffers from pollen allergies – also known as hay fever – which leads to sneezing and itchy eyes.
Naturally pollen-free trees include cedar and juniper trees. The scientists at the Japanese Forest Research and Management Organization say their discovery will make producing more pollen-free trees “straightforward.”
Scientists have created pollen-free trees to help reduce hay fever sufferers (stock photo)
Say ahh… to the AI dentist
Artificial intelligence (AI) dentists could soon be rolled out to help with the UK’s nationwide dental staff shortage.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed an AI computer program that can analyze X-rays and recognize signs of tooth decay and gum disease. A study found that the program caught the first signs of these problems earlier than dentists.
Experts say the findings could help free up resources at a time when the UK has a record shortage of dentists.
Research suggests that around 95 per cent of NHS dental practices are not accepting new patients due to a lack of staff.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed an AI computer program that can analyze X-rays and recognize the signs of tooth decay and gum disease (stock photo)
Nearly two-thirds of elderly people in the UK are at risk of receiving medical care too late because they lack a monitoring system that can alert family members or the NHS if they fall or have a medical emergency, a survey has found.
The NHS recommends a number of devices to help the elderly stay safe at home, such as personal alarms worn on the wrist and emergency pull cords in bathrooms. But the data shows that only 30 per cent of older adults in the UK have similar systems.
The Essence SmartCare study also found that half of older people are more than an hour away from their children, further increasing the risk.
According to new guidelines, doctors should give cystic fibrosis patients exercise tips.
The incurable hereditary condition, which affects 11,000 Britons, causes the lungs and digestive system to become clogged with mucus. This can cause breathing problems and damage the lungs over time.
Last week, experts published new guidelines calling on GPs to offer patients an annual fitness test. Dr. Zoe Saynor, a clinical exercise expert at the University of Portsmouth, said: ‘All patients of an appropriate age should have access to exercise testing to understand their health and receive individualized advice.’