Latest news with #CRP
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
New smart sanitary pads detect cancer, inflammation markers in menstrual blood
A new technology developed at ETH Zurich is transforming a long-overlooked source of medical data — menstrual blood — into a powerful health-monitoring tool. Dubbed MenstruAI, this innovative system integrates a non-electronic sensor into a sanitary towel, allowing users to analyze biomarkers in their menstrual blood using just a smartphone photo and a dedicated app. Lucas Dosnon, the study's first author, refers to the lack of research on menstrual blood as a 'systemic lack of interest in women's health." 'To date, menstrual blood has been regarded as waste. We are showing that it is a valuable source of information,' he adds. Menstrual blood contains hundreds of proteins, many of which correlate with concentrations in venous blood. Among these are biomarkers linked to inflammatory diseases and cancers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), a general marker for inflammation, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), often elevated in cancer, and CA-125, associated with ovarian cancer and endometriosis. At the core of MenstruAI is a paper-based test strip, similar in principle to rapid COVID-19 tests. Instead of saliva, it analyzes menstrual blood. The pad contains a small silicone chamber housing the test strip, which reacts to specific proteins by changing color — the darker the color, the higher the concentration of the biomarker. Users simply wear the pad, then take a photo of the used sensor with a smartphone. The MenstruAI app, powered by machine learning, analyzes the image to detect even subtle changes in color intensity, translating them into readable health insights. 'The app also recognises subtle differences, such as the amount of proteins present, and makes the result objectively measurable,' explains Dosnon. Following a successful feasibility study, the team is preparing a larger field study involving over 100 participants to test the technology under real-world conditions. Researchers will assess how biomarker concentrations vary across the menstrual cycle and among individuals, ensuring clinical relevance and accuracy. To improve usability and break down psychological barriers, the project team is collaborating with designers from the Zurich University of the Arts. 'It's also about designing the technology in such a way that makes it technically and socially acceptable,' says Inge Herrmann, a professor at the University of Zurich. 'Right from the outset, the aim was to develop a solution that can also be used in regions with poor healthcare provision and would be as cost-effective as possible, potentially enabling population-based screening,' says Herrmann. While it does not deliver definitive diagnoses, MenstruAI can alert users to concerning biomarker levels, encouraging them to seek medical advice. Over time, it could also support long-term health tracking, helping individuals detect trends and understand changes in their bodies. 'When we talk about healthcare, we can't simply phase out half of humanity,' Herrmann underlines. 'Courageous projects are called for to break down existing patterns of behaviour to ensure that women's health finally takes the place it deserves," concludes Dosnon. The study has been published in Advanced Science.
News18
25-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Obesity and Ovarian Cancer: Understanding the Hidden Link
Last Updated: Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue—it is a clinical and biological risk factor and progression driver for ovarian cancer Ovarian cancer is among the deadliest gynaecologic cancers, usually diagnosed late because of its nonspecific presentation. Although genetic predisposition and reproductive factors are established risk factors, increasing evidence points towards obesity as an important, modifiable risk factor. As obesity is increasing worldwide, its association with ovarian cancer has become increasingly prominent for prevention, early detection, and better therapeutic results. Dr Vishnu Agarwal, Surgical Oncologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai shares all you need to know about the hidden link The Growing Obesity Burden Obesity, which is a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m², has become an epidemic in all parts of the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) states: Over 1 billion people in the world were obese in 2022. Adult obesity in the US was 42.4% as of 2020, which is a steep rise from 30.5% in 2000 (CDC). The trend is strongly relevant to cancer incidence, including ovarian cancer. Ovarian Cancer: The Silent Killer Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common reason for female cancer-related deaths in the United States and is responsible for more female reproductive cancer deaths than any other type. The American Cancer Society estimates: In 2024, an estimated 19,680 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. About 12,740 deaths will occur due to the disease. 1. Overproduction of Estrogen Excess fat tissue results in peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens, particularly after menopause. Estrogen stimulates growth in cells of the ovary, potentially increasing the chance of mutation and tumor formation. 2. Inflammation Obesity causes chronic inflammation with elevated cytokine levels, including TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP. Chronic inflammation results in DNA damage and may cause tumor development. 3. Insulin Resistance and IGF-1 Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, leading to raised levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Both exhibit mitogenic and anti-apoptotic properties, which may promote the survival and growth of ovarian tumor cells. 4. Adipokines and Leptin Adipokines are hormones secreted by fat tissue. Among them, leptin is increased in obesity and has been reported to promote proliferation of cancer cells and ovarian tumor angiogenesis. Epidemiological Evidence Multiple large-scale studies have measured the association of BMI and risk of ovarian cancer: A meta-analysis in Cancer (2013) of more than 20 cohort studies concluded that an increase of 5 units in BMI was linked to a 10% higher risk of ovarian cancer. A WCRF study found that increased body fatness is 'likely" to be a cause of ovarian cancer, particularly for non-serous subtypes. Obese ovarian cancer patients also experience worse prognosis, including: • Increased disease recurrence following treatment. • Decreased overall survival, with stage and treatment type controlled for. • Increased rates of surgery and chemotherapy complications. • Implications for Prevention and Management From evidence, obesity is a modifiable risk factor for ovarian cancer. Prevention measures are: • Diet and exercise weight control. • Public health prevention policies against obesity from a young age. • Risk stratification and screening of high-BMI groups. • In practice, oncologists will have to modify the treatment of obese patients, including individualized chemotherapy dosing and more aggressive surgery to improve outcomes. Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue—it is a clinical and biological risk factor and progression driver for ovarian cancer. As the epidemic of obesity marches forward, so must the need to incorporate prevention, awareness, and targeted treatment strategies into women's health policy. Prevention of obesity has the potential to dramatically decrease the burden of ovarian cancer and enhance survival in thousands of women worldwide.60 The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: May 25, 2025, 23:31 IST
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
KBRA Assigns Ratings to Finance of America Structured Securities Trust, Series 2025-PC2 (FASST 2025-PC2)
NEW YORK, May 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KBRA assigns ratings to two classes of mortgage-backed notes from FASST 2025-PC2, a $215.1 million reverse mortgage transaction. The transaction collateral is comprised of seasoned jumbo "proprietary" reverse mortgage loans that were called from two previous securitization transactions sponsored by Finance of America Reverse LLC, proprietary reverse mortgage loans that were recently originated and additional participation interests that were not previously securitized. The weighted average loan age of the pool is 38 months through the cut-off date. To access ratings and relevant documents, click here. Click here to view the report. Recent Publication FASST 2025-PC2 Tear Sheet Methodologies RMBS: Reverse Mortgage Securitisation Global Rating Methodology Structured Finance: Global Structured Finance Counterparty Methodology ESG Global Rating Methodology Disclosures Further information on key credit considerations, sensitivity analyses that consider what factors can affect these credit ratings and how they could lead to an upgrade or a downgrade, and ESG factors (where they are a key driver behind the change to the credit rating or rating outlook) can be found in the full rating report referenced above. A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here. Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here. Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at About KBRA Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA), one of the major credit rating agencies (CRA), is a full-service CRA registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a Designated Rating Organization (DRO) by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized as a Qualified Rating Agency by Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission and is recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider (CRP) in the U.S. Doc ID: 1009540 View source version on Contacts Analytical Contacts Edward Tamiso, Senior Director (Lead Analyst)+1 Liam Vauk, Associate+1 Edward DeVito, Senior Managing Director (Rating Committee Chair)+1 Business Development Contact Daniel Stallone, Managing Director+1 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
KBRA Assigns Ratings to Finance of America Structured Securities Trust, Series 2025-PC2 (FASST 2025-PC2)
NEW YORK, May 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KBRA assigns ratings to two classes of mortgage-backed notes from FASST 2025-PC2, a $215.1 million reverse mortgage transaction. The transaction collateral is comprised of seasoned jumbo "proprietary" reverse mortgage loans that were called from two previous securitization transactions sponsored by Finance of America Reverse LLC, proprietary reverse mortgage loans that were recently originated and additional participation interests that were not previously securitized. The weighted average loan age of the pool is 38 months through the cut-off date. To access ratings and relevant documents, click here. Click here to view the report. Recent Publication FASST 2025-PC2 Tear Sheet Methodologies RMBS: Reverse Mortgage Securitisation Global Rating Methodology Structured Finance: Global Structured Finance Counterparty Methodology ESG Global Rating Methodology Disclosures Further information on key credit considerations, sensitivity analyses that consider what factors can affect these credit ratings and how they could lead to an upgrade or a downgrade, and ESG factors (where they are a key driver behind the change to the credit rating or rating outlook) can be found in the full rating report referenced above. A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here. Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here. Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at About KBRA Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA), one of the major credit rating agencies (CRA), is a full-service CRA registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a Designated Rating Organization (DRO) by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized as a Qualified Rating Agency by Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission and is recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider (CRP) in the U.S. Doc ID: 1009540 View source version on Contacts Analytical Contacts Edward Tamiso, Senior Director (Lead Analyst)+1 Liam Vauk, Associate+1 Edward DeVito, Senior Managing Director (Rating Committee Chair)+1 Business Development Contact Daniel Stallone, Managing Director+1
Business Wire
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
KBRA Assigns Ratings to Finance of America Structured Securities Trust, Series 2025-PC2 (FASST 2025-PC2)
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KBRA assigns ratings to two classes of mortgage-backed notes from FASST 2025-PC2, a $215.1 million reverse mortgage transaction. The transaction collateral is comprised of seasoned jumbo 'proprietary' reverse mortgage loans that were called from two previous securitization transactions sponsored by Finance of America Reverse LLC, proprietary reverse mortgage loans that were recently originated and additional participation interests that were not previously securitized. The weighted average loan age of the pool is 38 months through the cut-off date. To access ratings and relevant documents, click here. Click here to view the report. Recent Publication FASST 2025-PC2 Tear Sheet Methodologies Disclosures Further information on key credit considerations, sensitivity analyses that consider what factors can affect these credit ratings and how they could lead to an upgrade or a downgrade, and ESG factors (where they are a key driver behind the change to the credit rating or rating outlook) can be found in the full rating report referenced above. A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here. Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here. Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at About KBRA Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA), one of the major credit rating agencies (CRA), is a full-service CRA registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a Designated Rating Organization (DRO) by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized as a Qualified Rating Agency by Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission and is recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider (CRP) in the U.S. Doc ID: 1009540
