Mass General: Boston’s teaching hospital and Harvard Medical School’s original clinical home
Researchers have published long-term data showing that very high blood levels of the tau marker p‑tau217 predict a 38% risk of cognitive impairment within five years and 78% within ten. Trials are using the test to recruit volunteers while Scotland has started a primary‑care rollout of p‑tau testing to study real‑world use.
A jury has begun selecting for a high-profile case in Massachusetts as the defense argues postpartum psychosis while prosecutors contend premeditation. The trial could last several weeks with up to 200 potential witnesses. Separately, a Montreal father faces murder charges in a separate case, with questions about evidence handling and testimony.
Federal SNAP reform has tightened eligibility and shifted costs to states, triggering a sharp drop in participation and putting pressure on food banks. Arizona records the largest decline, with state processes becoming more burdensome and delivery times longer as programs adjust. Projections warn of continued reductions without congressional action.
The Independent reports opening statements in Lindsay Clancy’s trial reveal that both sides agree she strangled her children in 2023. The disorder postpartum psychosis is rare but dangerous; experts say immediate help is essential as mothers with severe cases may harm themselves or others. The coverage contrasts postpartum psychosis with postpartum depression and baby blues, noting prevalence and risk factors.
Google has introduced a new smartwatch that tracks health signals such as blood pressure patterns and insulin resistance, alongside proactive assistance and sleep improvements. The device also features an emergency-contact alert for breathing emergencies, advanced GPS, and longer battery life, with release starting in Europe before a broader rollout.
Researchers have examined brains from 235 former NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 and have confirmed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in 215. Including all 878 players who died in that period, the team has calculated a conservative minimum prevalence of CTE of 24.5% at death and urged prevention to cut repetitive head impacts.
Canada has announced a government-backed program to hire 64 researchers, with 48 coming from the United States, including Harvard and MIT, to join Canadian universities. The initiative, funded with over C$500 million, aims to bolster fields from climate science to artificial intelligence as tensions with the US influence academic mobility. The shift follows policy crackdowns in the United States and a broader tradewar backdrop.