Researchers at Stanford University have developed a novel drug delivery system using ultrasound and nanoparticles, which allows for precise targeting of drugs within the body, according to a study published in Nature Nanotechnology. This method uses ultrasound-responsive nanoparticles to deliver drugs like ketamine to specific brain regions, potentially treating conditions such as depression without typical side effects, and also enables localized pain relief by activating anesthetics at targeted sites.

The ACC released clinical guidance for the diagnosis and management of pericarditis, emphasizing the importance of multimodality imaging. The guidance highlights transthoracic echocardiography as a first-line imaging modality and CMR as a second-line option, while CCT is recommended for assessing pericardial calcifications. The guidance, published in JACC, also notes the effectiveness of pericardial disease centers in managing recurrent or refractory pericarditis and their role in clinical trials.

Epic Systems' new MyChart Central will enable patients to link multiple MyChart patient portals into one website and use a mobile app to access their information. Epic has also introduced Epic ID, a single login for consolidated MyChart Central accounts.

Health care spending in the US is projected to reach $8.6 trillion by 2033, driven by an aging population, according to the CMS. At the same time, Affordable Care Act marketplace premiums could see double-digit premium increases in 2026, and employers are planning to pass more health insurance costs to employees. A recent tax and spending bill signed by the president could lead to significant Medicaid cuts, potentially leaving millions uninsured.

US adults who experience reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 have a 35% higher risk of long COVID compared with those with a single infection. This observational study analyzed data from 424,616 individuals and underscores the increased risk associated with reinfections.

A study in the journal Human Reproduction found that a 10% to 25% weight loss in women with a BMI of 25 or higher was associated with a 5% increase in conception rates and a reduced risk of gestational diabetes and emergency cesarean sections. The study, funded by Novo Nordisk, analyzed data from nearly 250,000 women in the UK and found that weight loss was linked to better pregnancy outcomes.

A recent FlexJobs report highlights that 55% of Americans aged 20 to 35 have faced a "quarter-life" career crisis, experiencing deep uncertainty about their roles and futures in the workforce. This phenomenon is not just a passing trend, but a significant concern impacting employee mental health and workplace productivity. The crisis is particularly acute in this age group as they try to establish stable careers amid industry changes and economic turbulence.