Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pain Research, Surgical Research / 20.11.2024

Discussion and Explanation of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery by: Brent A. Felix, M.D Spine Surgery, Bone & Joint Surgery Salt Lake Orthopaedic Clinic Suite 4050 Salt Lake City, UT 84124 and Alpine Orthopaedic Specialists North Logan, UT 8434  

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has become a game changer in orthopedic surgery, offering patients safer and less painful options for treating spinal issues. Dr. Brent Felix, a leading orthopedic spine surgeon, is at the forefront of this movement, advocating for these innovative techniques that provide multiple benefits over traditional methods.

What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery, or MISS, is a technique that allows surgeons to address spine conditions with much smaller incisions compared to traditional surgery. Rather than making large cuts to access the spine, Dr. Felix and his team use special instruments and imaging tools to perform surgery through small incisions. These tools include tiny cameras or endoscopes, which provide a clear view of the spine without the need for large openings.

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Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Leukemia, Personalized Medicine / 12.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Professor Ong Sin Tiong Cancer & Stem Cell Biology Signature Research Programme Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore Dr Yu Mengge Research Fellow, Cancer & Stem Cell Biology Signature Research Programme Duke-NUS Medical School MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The background of this study is rooted in the observation that certain genetic variations among East Asian populations, notably the BIM deletion polymorphism (BDP), impact treatment outcomes in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Patients with the BDP show resistance to conventional treatments, specifically tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib. This resistance stems from the variant's role in promoting cancer cell survival, which leads to more aggressive disease progression. (more…)
Technology / 12.11.2024

  In recent years, the health tech industry has seen a surge in groundbreaking innovations, from wearable medical devices to AI-powered diagnostics. While these advancements can potentially transform healthcare, they often come with a barrier‚Äîcomplexity. Many of these technologies are sophisticated, requiring expert knowledge to understand fully. Public relations (PR) in health is critical in translating these innovations into accessible information for the general public. By making these advancements relatable and transparent, PR efforts build trust and enable wider adoption of life-improving technologies.

Challenges in Communicating Healthtech Innovations

Communicating health tech innovations effectively has its challenges. Healthtech is a field rooted in medical science and advanced technology, leading to complex terminology that can be hard for the average person to follow. For instance, AI applications in diagnostics or personalized medicine might sound overwhelming and abstract, making it difficult for the public to appreciate their value or even feel comfortable using them.   Beyond complexity, there are ethical and privacy concerns. Data privacy, particularly in health, is a sensitive area, and the public often has questions or worries about how their data will be managed. Additionally, the fear of misuse or misinterpretation of health data can increase without clear communication. In this challenging landscape, PR is responsible for addressing both the technical aspects and the ethical questions in ways the public can understand and trust. (more…)
Dermatology, Plastic Surgery / 12.11.2024

When it comes to offering top-tier cosmetic treatments, finding dermal fillers wholesale at affordable prices is essential. Whether you’re a clinic owner, aesthetician, or medical professional, getting your supplies from reliable suppliers makes a huge difference. Let’s dive into the benefits, features, and important details you should know about dermal fillers before making a purchase.

Understanding Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore volume, smooth fine lines, and enhance facial features. They can address deep wrinkles, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines, providing a more youthful appearance. Most dermal filler products are formulated with hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the human body known for its hydrating properties. The versatility of hyaluronic acid fillers is what makes them a popular choice. They are used for adding volume to lips, filling in superficial wrinkles, and reshaping facial contours. There’s also a wide variety of other filler materials like calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L-lactic acid that offer specialized benefits. (more…)
Complementary Medicine, Nutrition / 11.11.2024

In the quest for healthier bones, one supplement is steadily rising in popularity: bone broth collagen. Known for its abundance of nutrients, bone broth collagen is hailed for its benefits, not just for skin or joint health but for supporting stronger bones and enhanced bone density as well. While many might think of bone health only when aging sets in, it’s essential to start strengthening our bones at any stage. If you’re curious about the impact bone broth collagen can have on your skeletal health, read on to uncover how this nutrient-packed powerhouse may be a valuable part of your wellness routine.

What is Bone Broth Collagen?

Bone broth collagen is a nutrient-rich substance that’s derived from simmering animal bones (often from chicken or beef) along with connective tissues over a long period. This process breaks down the bones and releases collagen, minerals, amino acids, and other essential nutrients into the broth. Collagen from bone broth is especially beneficial because it includes types I and II collagen, which are the primary types needed for skin elasticity, joint health, and—crucially—bone density. Unlike standard collagen supplements, which may focus on just one collagen type or be isolated from other nutrients, bone broth collagen offers a more holistic package. It contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and glucosamine—all key nutrients that work together to support bone health. Editor’s note: The efficacy of bone broth in promoting joint health and not been universally confirmed.   It is worth noting that some bone broth may contain lead and therefore moderate or limited use of bone broth is recommended until lead levels in bone broth can be established. Please discuss with your medical provider. Children and pregnant individuals should be especially cautious as lead is toxic to the developing  brain (more…)
Author Interviews, Neurology, Sexual Health, STD / 06.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sagar S. Patel, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What was the background for this research? Response: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by a gram-negative bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This infection promotes the cell death of microglia and can cause a variety of symptoms. It is commonly observed in developing countries such as sub-Saharan Africa. Neurosyphilis is a complication of syphilis that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS undergoes multiple stages of deterioration and can include personality changes and hearing abnormalities. Diagnosing neurosyphilis is challenging because its symptoms mimic other neurodegenerative diseases. Diagnosis relies on clinical studies, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and neuroimaging techniques. (more…)
AI and HealthCare, Author Interviews, Breast Cancer, Genetic Research / 06.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Dina Schneidman-Duhovny PhD Academic researcher Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: The study analyzed genetic data of 12 families (~ 40 patients) with high incidence of breast cancer cases. Most families originate from ethnic groups that are poorly represented in public resources. All participants were tested negative to all known breast cancer predisposing genes. We developed a novel approach to study genetic variants utilizing state-of-the-art deep learning models tailored for analysis of familial data. The study highlighted 80 high-risk genes (out of > 1200 genes) and narrowed down on a group of 8 genes circulating in 7 out of 12 families in the study. These genes are involved in a cellular organelle called the peroxisome and play a role in fatty acids metabolism. We show that  these genes significantly affect breast cancer survival and use 3-dimensional protein structural analysis to illustrate the effect of some of the variants on protein structure. These provide strong evidence of the peroxisome involvement in breast cancer predisposition and pathogenicity, and provide potential targets for patient screening and targeted therapies. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Brain Injury, Legal-Malpractice / 05.11.2024

  Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) pose a significant public health danger, affecting millions of individuals annually. A TBI happens when rapid trauma harms the brain, and its severity can range from moderate to fatal. Understanding the different types of TBI is essential for both prevention and treatment. There are three primary categories of TBI: concussions, contusions, and penetrating injuries. Each type presents unique risks and legal implications, particularly when negligence or intentional harm is involved.

1.  Contusions

Contusions, or bruises to the brain, are one of the most common types of brain injuries. They happen when a direct blow to the head causes bleeding or edema in brain tissue. Contusions, unlike concussions, are typically more localized injuries that might result in more severe symptoms depending on the location of the brain affected. Contusions are significant in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. For example, suppose a person suffers a contusion after slipping on an unmarked wet floor at a grocery store. In that case, they could pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. The primary challenge in these instances is frequently demonstrating negligence, whether the property owner, employer, or another person failed to make reasonable efforts to avoid the injury. (more…)
Author Interviews, Ovarian Cancer / 04.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Alessia Baccarini, PhD Assistant Professor Dept. of Immunology and Immunotherapy (DII) Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York, New York 10029 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Ovarian cancer is characterized by a complex tumor microenvironment (TME) that significantly contributes to resistance against immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies like anti-PD-1. Understanding the extracellular signals—such as cytokines and chemokines—that ovarian cancer cells utilize to create an immunosuppressive TME is critical for improving treatment outcomes. Our research focuses on elucidating how these signaling factors contribute to tumor growth and immune evasion. We utilized a novel genomic functional approach called Perturb-map to study intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) in ovarian cancer within a mouse model, allowing us to investigate the communication between ovarian cancer cells and immune cells.  (more…)
Dermatology, Plastic Surgery / 04.11.2024

laser-hair-removal.jpg   Imagine stepping out of the shower and instantly feeling like your skin is made of pure silk—never having to shave or wax again.  That’s what laser hair removal may do for you. It’s the perfect choice for modern women with packed schedules. And on top of hair-free and smooth skin, it also boosts your confidence and saves you money and time. It’s time to ditch those painful wax strips. Keep reading to find out why laser hair removal is the lifestyle upgrade you need.
  1. Live Hair-Free Without Constant Upkeep
This is probably the best benefit you’ll enjoy from laser hair removal. Imagine living hair-free without endless hair removal routines. With traditional methods like waxing, sugaring, or shaving, hair may grow back in just a few days. With laser treatment, however, regrowth cycles vary but are significantly longer. Some of our patients go for maintenance sessions every several months, while others, annually. If hair does resurface, it will be thinner and lighter in color—hence a lot less noticeable. (more…)
Kidney Disease, Laboratories / 04.11.2024

Urine output measurement stands among the core vital signs monitored in clinical settings, providing critical data about patient hemodynamic status, renal function, and overall fluid balance. This guide examines precise measurement techniques, interpretation standards, and clinical applications for healthcare professionals. The data gathered through systematic urine output measurement serves multiple clinical purposes, from basic patient assessment to complex critical care decisions. Medical professionals across specialities rely on these measurements to guide treatment plans, adjust interventions, and monitor patient progress. (more…)
Brain Cancer - Brain Tumors, Immunotherapy, Vaccine Studies / 04.11.2024

brain-cancer-glioblastoma Glioblastoma is one of the most challenging cancers to treat due to its aggressive nature and resistance to standard therapies. In recent years, however, the field of glioblastoma immunotherapy has made significant strides, introducing innovative approaches like oncolytic viruses and brain cancer vaccines. These emerging treatments aim to engage the immune system in the fight against glioblastoma, offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes and extending survival rates.

The Current State of Glioblastoma Treatment

  With a median survival rate of only 12-15 months, glioblastoma patients face difficult odds. Traditional treatments often manage to slow tumor growth temporarily, but recurrence is common. This grim reality has motivated researchers to explore innovative therapies that leverage the body’s immune system, including oncolytic viruses and personalized vaccines.

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Accidents & Violence, Cost of Health Care, Legal-Malpractice, Medical Billing / 02.11.2024

If you are involved in a car accident, you have to worry about the medical expenses that follow, especially if you have sustained severe injuries. Medical bills quickly accumulate, which can cause uncertainty and financial stress for an individual. Medical Payments coverage offers an option for accident victims to deal with medical expenses after an accident. Given the high cost of healthcare in the US, your best option might be to consider medical coverage offered through any option available. This post is a rundown of these options in this article. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Leukemia, Stem Cells / 01.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Eirini Papapetrou, MD, PhD Professor of Oncological Sciences Professor of Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology Director, Center for Advancement of Blood Cancer Therapies Co-Director, Stem Cell Engineering Core Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York, NY 10029   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: RAS in the most commonly mutated oncogene in human cancers. Particularly in acute myeloid leukemia, about one third of cases have RAS mutations. We set out to understand the role of these mutations in the development of leukemia and in response to treatment. We found that RAS mutations happen late in the course of the disease as progression mutations because they are acquired by more mature leukemic cells coming from preexisting leukemia stem cells (LSCs). Importantly, these more mature cells, upon acquisition of RAS mutations, become leukemia stem cells (LSCs) with different properties than the previous LSCs. Most critically, they develop resistance to a recently FDA-approved drug for the treatment of leukemia, venetoclax (VEN). In addition, these RAS-mutated LSCs give rise to leukemia cells with monocytic differentiation. Both RAS mutations and monocytic differentiation of AML have previously been associated with VEN resistance in clinical studies. We show that it is the RAS mutations that cause both the monocytic differentiation and the VEN resistance. Thus, poor patient outcomes after VEN therapy are driven by RAS mutations and not by monocytic disease.  (more…)
Aging, Technology / 01.11.2024

Lift chairs are an essential addition for seniors who need a bit of extra support in their daily lives. These specially designed chairs gently lift and lower, making it easier to sit down or stand up without straining muscles or joints. For those dealing with arthritis, back pain, or balance issues, a lift chair can be much more than just a comfortable seat—it’s a practical aid that supports health and independence. Here’s a closer look at how lift chairs work, the health benefits they offer, and tips for choosing the right one.

How Lift Chairs Make Life Easier

Lift chairs, often called "chairs that lift for seniors," are recliners equipped with a motorized function that raises and tilts the seat forward. With the push of a button, the chair moves smoothly to help users stand up or sit down with minimal effort. This technology is especially helpful for anyone with limited mobility, allowing them to move safely and independently. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 01.11.2024

If you or a a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Mental health treatment isn't one-size-fits-all. Just like physical health, mental well-being requires different levels of care based on individual needs. Some people benefit from weekly therapy sessions, while others need more structured support. Understanding these layers of care can make a world of difference. With the right support, individuals can find the balance that works for them. Whether facing mild anxiety or severe depression, there’s a level of care tailored to help each person achieve stability and resilience.

Outpatient Care: Flexible Support for Mild to Moderate Needs

Individuals managing mild to moderate mental health challenges often benefit from a flexible care option that fits seamlessly into their daily lives. This level of support is ideal for those who don’t need full-time supervision but can use regular guidance to maintain stability and build coping skills. Patients in outpatient programs maintain independence, attending sessions at their own pace and on a schedule that works best for them. Sessions typically occur weekly or bi-weekly, with each one focusing on personal growth, skill development, and progress tracking. Therapy options can include individual counseling, group sessions, or a tailored combination, allowing patients to find the mental health support that feels right. For added convenience, many choose remote care options. For example, you may  consider OpenMindHealth.com for flexible telehealth services that accommodate busy lifestyles. This kind of accessibility ensures consistent support, making outpatient care an adaptable choice for many facing mental health challenges. (more…)
Author Interviews, Health Care Systems, JAMA, Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh / 31.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Katie J. Suda, PharmD, M.S., FCCP Professor of medicine with tenure Associate Director, Center for Pharmaceutical Policy and Prescribing University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our pharmaceutical supply chain is global where the manufacturing process for one drug may occur in multiple countries. Sometimes there are breakdowns in the pharmaceutical supply chain which may threaten access to medicines. Breakdowns in the supply chain occur for medicines manufactured in the U.S. and by international partners. While breakdowns in the supply chain occur for hundreds of drugs each year, not all result in a decrease in available supply (a “drug shortage”) because of action taken by manufacturers, pharmacies and drug regulators (e.g., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA]). Drug shortages are a critical concern to public health as pharmacies, clinicians, and patients struggle to identify safe and effective alternatives. In addition, drug shortages have been associated with adverse patient outcomes and medication safety events. Recently, drug shortages have gotten worse with shortages occurring with increasing frequency and lasting longer. There has also been a shift in the types of medicines in shortage from drugs primarily used in hospitals, such as injectables, to oral medicines frequently used to manage outpatient conditions. Countries have different regulatory authority and policy which may impact how drug supply chain breakdowns result in drug shortages. We wanted to know if there are differences between the U.S. and Canada in the frequency that national drug shortages occur after supply chain breakdowns are reported in both countries. Canada is a good comparator to the U.S. because Canada has similar drug regulatory standards and manufacturing inspections. Prescription drug coverage is also similar for the two countries where half of prescriptions are reimbursed through public insurance and half through private insurance and out-of-pocket. (more…)
Author Interviews, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Nature, Semaglutide / 31.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview on publication of: Prof. dr. H.J. (Hiddo) Lambers Heerspink Clinical Pharmacologist Faculty of Medical Sciences University of Groningen MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: The diabetes drug semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, has a positive effect for patients with chronic kidney damage and obesity. The amount of protein in their urine decreased, as did the degree of inflammation of their kidneys and their blood pressure. Hiddo L. Heerspink got the idea for this study at the beginning of the corona pandemic. Earlier, he had discovered that another class of drugs against diabetes-2, the so-called SGLT2 inhibitors also appeared to work well for patients with chronic kidney damage without diabetes. He therefore wanted to investigate whether semaglutide would also work positively for patients with chronic kidney disease and obesity. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 31.10.2024

Many people dream of having perfect vision without needing glasses or contact lenses. Thanks to significant technological advancements, LASIK is now safer and more precise, making it a popular choice for those seeking clarity and comfort in their everyday lives. The transformation after LASIK extends beyond mere visual improvement. The newfound ability to enjoy daily activities without optical aids leads to enhanced quality of life, boosting confidence and reducing dependency on corrective lenses. An informed understanding of LASIK empowers individuals to make decisions that benefit their vision health, potentially altering life significantly and positively. Key Takeaways
  • LASIK is popular for those looking to improve vision and life quality without relying on glasses or contact lenses.
  • Advances in LASIK technology have made the procedure safer and more precise.
  • Understanding the benefits and process of LASIK can help individuals make informed decisions about their eye health.
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Cannabis, OBGYNE, Pediatrics / 30.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sarah Keim, PhD Associate Professor, Epidemiology College of Public Health The Ohio State University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Marijuana is the illicit substance most commonly used during pregnancy, and use is increasing. Some evidence suggests that marijuana is associated with deficits in executive function and increased delinquent behavior in school-age children and adolescents, with potential downstream impacts on achievement and social functioning. However, this evidence comes largely from only 2 studies several decades old. Today cannabis is more than 10 times more potent than it was several decades ago. (more…)
Concierge Medicine, Health Care Systems / 30.10.2024

A thriving healthcare practice should be accessible, flexible, and transparent with its patients. It can be difficult for patients to find trusted providers, and your practice should do all it can to present itself as a trustworthy medical caregiver. If you’re having trouble bringing in new patients, it may be time to evaluate your marketing and healthcare practices and improve in some areas. Learning about the most efficient practices to increase patient volume is the best way to start.

1. Establish an Online Presence

Prospective patients are more likely to choose a practice where they can learn information about your practice’s staff, policies, and reviews. They can only learn by booking an appointment or word of mouth if you have little online presence. These are not reliable recruitment practices. Create an accessible website with information about your staff, policies, and availability. Provide the services you offer and give patients an easy option to communicate with you via phone, email, or contact form (or all of the above). Provide transparent and updated information about pricing, insurance, and payment plans. (more…)
Health Care Workers / 29.10.2024

Table of Contents
  • Introduction
  • The Role of Nurse Practitioners
  • Educational Requirements
  • Key Skills for Success
  • Career Opportunities
  • Continuing Education and Professional Development
  • Conclusion
Introduction The healthcare system relies heavily on nurse practitioners (NPs), who provide a unique combination of clinical knowledge and compassionate care. With healthcare's continual evolution, the role and importance of skilled NPs are increasing more than ever. This guide empowers aspiring and current NPs by providing insights into their educational journey, essential skills, career prospects, and ongoing professional development. Whether you're currently working in the field or contemplating an FNP degree online, this guide will serve as a roadmap to achieving success in the dynamic world of nursing. (more…)
Education / 29.10.2024

Table of Contents
  1. Introduction
  2. Set Clear Goals
  3. Create a Study Schedule
  4. Join Online Study Groups
  5. Find a Mentor
  6. Reward Yourself
  7. Stay Physically Active
  8. Eliminate Distractions
  9. Seek Professional Help
  Introduction Pursuing an online postgraduate degree  can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the critical aspects to ensure success is maintaining your motivation throughout the journey. If you're working on your eds degree online, you might find it difficult to stay focused and driven without the traditional classroom setting. Here are some valuable tips to help you keep your motivation high and achieve your academic goals. (more…)
Anesthesiology, Pain Research / 29.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with a Vertex spokesperson.   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
  • We presented Phase 3 data for our investigational, oral pain signal inhibitor, suzetrigine, at ANESTHESIOLOGY 2024, the American Society of Anesthesiologists’ annual meeting. The Phase 3 data were previously announced in January 2024, and this is the first time the findings were presented to the medical community. The data were featured in the “Best Abstracts” session at the meeting.
  • Our Phase 3 acute pivotal program for suzetrigine included two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pivotal trials, one following abdominoplasty surgery and one following bunionectomy surgery, as well as a single arm safety and effectiveness study which enrolled patients with a broad range of surgical and non-surgical pain conditions. All three studies demonstrated compelling and consistent efficacy and safety across multiple acute pain conditions and settings.
  • Together, the data demonstrate suzetrigine’s potential to offer a safe, well tolerated and effective alternative to the current acute pain treatment paradigm, without addictive potential.
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Aging, Nursing Homes / 28.10.2024

Nursing homes of a high standard can have great benefits for residents. When selecting a nursing home or rehabilitation center, families often rely on facility ratings to evaluate the quality of care provided. Understanding the ratings associated with nursing homes can offer insights into the quality of care residents receive, helping families make well-informed decisions.

Key Aspects of Ratings for Nursing Homes

Nursing home ratings typically cover several essential areas of care, including staffing, safety, and resident satisfaction. The high Casa de Oro Center ratings reflect its commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for residents. Families evaluating this facility should consider the following aspects:
  • Staffing and Responsiveness: Adequate staffing is crucial for delivering timely and effective care. High ratings in this area indicate that the nursing home maintains sufficient staff-to-resident ratios, ensuring residents receive the attention and assistance they need promptly.
  • Safety and Hygiene Protocols:  High safety ratings signify the facility’s adherence to strict hygiene protocols, which are essential in preventing the spread of infections and protecting residents’ health.
  • Resident Satisfaction: Feedback from residents and their families plays a significant role in overall ratings. High satisfaction scores suggest that residents feel comfortable, valued, and well-supported, contributing to their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
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Infections / 28.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Asaf Levy Senior Lecturer, Assistant Professor Plant Pathology and Microbiology The Robert H Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Bacteria encode many compounds used to target neighboring microbes or cause disease in hosts, including humans. Classic antibiotics (small molecules) are one well-studied group of antimicrobials encoded by bacteria. A less-studied group consists of short protein toxins. These proteins are produced by bacteria and injected into target cells to kill them. In this study, we focused on a group of protein toxins called polymorphic toxins, which carry a short toxin domain at their end, which we termed “PTs” (an acronym for polymorphic toxins) and are roughly 100 amino acid long. We developed a new algorithm to scan 107,000 bacterial genomes and discover novel PTs encoded by these bacteria. We then experimentally confirmed 9 new PT families that can kill bacteria and pathogenic fungi, including human pathogens, such as Candida auris and Aspergillus fumigatus. We saw that two of the toxins kill cells by degrading their DNA. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, University of Michigan / 27.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Daniel J. Kruger, PhD University of Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and University at Buffalo teamed up with psychedelic advocates and therapists to document some of the challenges with psychedelics. They surveyed over a thousand psychedelic users about their adverse experiences and the experiences they have heard from others. Most reported being frightened, sadness, loneliness, and feeling their body tremble or shake at times. Some people experienced panic, paranoia, felt that they are dead, or that the state they were in would last forever. One in ten participants had adverse physical reactions.  For most people having these experiences, they are rare or happen sometimes, but they are still significant. Most of the people that experienced a severe adverse event did not have guidance from someone who was knowledgeable about psychedelics. A small portion of participants knew about an incident of inappropriate sexual contact by a psychedelic sitter, guide, or practitioner, the perpetrators were mostly underground guides and friends or acquaintances. (more…)