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Gambling / 18.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Atharva Yeola, B.S. The Qualcomm Institute at UC San Diego MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We initiated this study because, in the wake of the 2018 Murphy v. NCAA decision, sportsbooks began to proliferate at an unprecedented pace—expanding from a single state in 2017 to 38 states by early 2024. Accompanying that surge, the total amount bet on sports skyrocketed from $4.9 billion in 2017 to $121.1 billion in 2023, with 94% of wagers during 2023 occurring online. However, public health discussions lagged behind this explosive growth. We wanted to gauge whether this rapid adoption of sports betting, especially via easily accessible online platforms, was associated with increases in problem gambling and gambling addiction. (more…)
Antibiotic Resistance, Author Interviews, Infections / 18.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Jennifer Machado Soares Affiliation: University of São Paulo and Texas A&M University Institute of Physics of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil. MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Antibiotic treatments are becoming less effective due to the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Alternative treatments such as Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) have emerged and can act as an adjuvant to traditional antibiotic therapy. aPDT utilizes a photosensitizer activated by light to generate reactive oxygen species that can inactivate pathogens. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Colon Cancer, Stem Cells / 14.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Slim Mzoughi, PhD Assistant Professor Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Department of Oncological Sciences Hess Center for Science and Medicine New York, NY 10029 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Resistance to current cancer treatments remains one of the biggest challenges in oncology, often leading to cancer recurrence even after patients appear to be in remission. To overcome this obstacle, we first need to understand the mechanisms behind this resistance. For a long time, treatment resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC)—the second deadliest cancer worldwide—has been attributed to a specific group of cells known as LGR5+ cancer stem cells. However, recent studies suggest that simply targeting these cells is insufficient for achieving long-term cancer control. That’s where our study comes in—to uncover why this is the case. MedicalResearch.com:  What are the main findings? Response:  Our study reveals that, early in tumor formation, LGR5+ cancer stem cells undergo molecular changes that render them unrecognizable. These changes cause them to resemble those found in the developing fetal intestine. In a way, this transformation reminds me of the legend of Edward Mordake, where these now fetal-like cells act as the “demon face” of cancer stem cells, resisting and surviving treatment. Crucially, we have identified the mechanism driving this reversion to a fetal-like state, which we term oncofetal-reprogramming. Excitingly, when we targeted the oncofetal cell state alongside existing chemotherapy treatments, this significantly enhanced treatment effectiveness and extended survival in preclinical models, offering new hope for CRC patients. (more…)
Author Interviews, Gender Differences, JAMA, University of Michigan / 14.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Farrah Madanay, PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Bioethics and Social Sciences in Medicine Michigan Medicine University of Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Patients are increasingly using online forums to evaluate their physicians, with not only star ratings but also written narrative reviews. These reviews tend to fall into two dimensions: interpersonal manner, which includes comments about the physician’s attitude, behavior, and communication; and technical competence, which includes comments about the physician’s knowledge, skill, and outcomes. These two dimensions are important for patient-centered care and align with research from social psychology. Whereas prior studies have revealed gender differences in workplace assessments and overall star ratings of physicians, little is known about physician gender differences in patients’ online written reviews. We were curious whether physician gender differences were prevalent in patients’ written reviews and consistent across physician specialties, from generalists, like primary care physicians, to proceduralists, like surgeons. We collected physician profile, rating, and review data from one of the largest commercial physician rating and review websites. We focused on physicians from three primary care specialties (family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics), and three surgical specialties (general surgery; orthopedic surgery; and cosmetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery). Our final sample included 345,053 online reviews received by 167,150 U.S. physicians between 2015 and 2020. We used hand-coded reviews to train an advanced natural language processing algorithm to classify all reviews for the presence and valence of patients’ comments of physicians’ interpersonal manner and technical competence. We then conducted multilevel logistic regressions to analyze differences by female or male physician gender in interpersonal manner and technical competence comments and whether those comments were associated with review star ratings. (more…)
Author Interviews, Autism, Pediatrics / 14.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Magdalena Janecka PhD Associate Professor, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Associate Professor, Department of Population Health NYU Grossman School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Several earlier studies have indicated that certain maternal conditions in pregnancy – for example, depression or obesity - are associated with higher rates of autism in offspring. However, the majority of the conditions females experience during pregnancy have not been investigated in the context of autism before. Additionally, while the evidence that these associations are likely not causal existed for a few maternal diagnoses, it was not clear whether this applies to just a few associations that have been examined or is more widespread. Our study investigated the association between all maternal conditions in pregnancy (provided they were common enough to allow us to estimate their effects) and the likelihood of autism in the child. Then, for the significant associations, we tested whether these associations seemed causal, or whether they were instead attributable to other confounding factors. Confounders are other variables that can influence the relationship between the variables in a study, for example maternal health and autism. Factors shared by family members, i.e. familial factors (e.g., genetics) are common confounders in studies like ours, and are particularly difficult to account for. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Microbiome / 14.02.2025

That nervous feeling in your stomach before a big presentation isn't just a figure of speech. Groundbreaking research reveals your gut functions as a "second brain," dramatically influencing your mood, anxiety levels, and even decision-making abilities.

The Hidden Conversation Between Gut and Brain

Your digestive system contains over 100 million neurons - more than your spinal cord. This extensive neural network, called the enteric nervous system, communicates directly with your brain through the vagus nerve, creating a two-way street of chemical messages that affect everything from stress levels to emotional resilience. Recent studies show that 90% of serotonin, often called the "happiness hormone," is produced in your gut, not your brain. This explains why digestive issues often accompany anxiety and depression, and why dietary changes can sometimes be as effective as traditional treatments for mood disorders. (more…)
Laboratories, Medical Research Centers, Pharmaceutical Companies / 12.02.2025

Clinical trials are a fundamental part of medical research, ensuring the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, and treatments. A Clinical Research Organization (CRO) plays a pivotal role in managing and conducting these trials efficiently. From regulatory compliance to data management, CROs provide expertise that helps sponsors navigate the complexities of clinical research.

What is a Clinical Trials CRO?

A Clinical Research Organization (CRO) is a specialized service provider that assists pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and medical device manufacturers in conducting clinical trials. These organizations offer comprehensive services, including study design, patient recruitment, monitoring, regulatory compliance, data collection, and statistical analysis. CROs streamline the clinical trial process, reducing time and costs while ensuring compliance with regulatory authorities such as the FDA and EMA.

Key Services Offered by Clinical Trials CROs

  1. Protocol Development – Designing a scientifically sound and regulatory-compliant study protocol.
  2. Regulatory Compliance – Ensuring adherence to FDA, EMA, and other global regulatory requirements.
  3. Patient Recruitment and Management – Identifying and enrolling eligible patients for clinical trials.
  4. Site Selection and Monitoring – Identifying qualified research sites and ensuring compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
  5. Data Management and Biostatistics – Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting trial data.
  6. Safety Monitoring – Assessing adverse events and ensuring patient safety throughout the trial.
  7. Quality Assurance – Conducting audits and inspections to maintain data integrity and protocol adherence.
  8. Medical Writing and Reporting – Preparing regulatory submissions, study reports, and scientific publications.
(more…)
Allergies, Author Interviews, NEJM, Pediatrics / 11.02.2025

Editor's note:  Do not attempt immunotherapy for peanut or other allergens without the express direction of your health care provider. Life-threatening reactions may occur. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Scott H. Sicherer, MD Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Professor of Pediatrics, Allergy and Immunology Director, Jaffe Food Allergy Institute Division Chief, Pediatric Allergy Medical Director, Clinical Research Unit Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Jack and Lucy Clark Department of Pediatrics Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital New York, NY 10029 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: About 2% of people have a peanut allergy.  While many of them are exquisitely allergic to tiny amounts, about half can tolerate a half a peanut kernel or more before they have symptoms, although the symptoms can be severe. Current studies and FDA approved treatments for peanut allergy have typically focused on people reacting to about half a peanut or less.  We thought that those with higher threshold may be more easily treated. We focused on children ages 4-14 years who we identified through a medically supervised feeding test as having allergic reactions from 443 to 5043 mg of peanut protein.  A peanut kernel is about 250 mg of peanut protein. The 73 children were randomized to a treatment (oral immunotherapy, OIT) using home-measured, store bought peanut butter versus continuing the standard of care, avoidance.  OIT involves medically supervised dosing going from a small amount to gradually increasing larger amounts.  The increases are done under direct allergist supervision, then the tolerated dose is taken at home daily. Families are given instructions about avoiding things that can cause a reaction from dosing, such as exercise after a dose, and to skip dosing for illness.  Dosing can cause reactions and they were instructed on how to recognize and treat any such reactions.   We did increases every 2 months. Most of the children (62) stayed in the study to be tested after the period of treatment, that aimed for having a level tablespoon of peanut butter each day. All of the treated children who completed testing (32) were able to eat 9 grams of peanut.  Only 3 of 30 who continued to avoid peanut were able to do this. (more…)
Author Interviews, Gastrointestinal Disease / 11.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Arun B. Jesudian, MD Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine Medicine Weill Cornell Medical Center Transplant hepatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: In recent years, the demand for gastroenterologists continues to increase due to an aging population, increase in the prevalence of gastrointestinal and hepatology diseases, updates in screening and surveillance recommendations, and advances in therapeutic techniques. In this study, we set out to examine geographic distributions of gastroenterologists in the United States. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  We found that on a national level, over 80% of the population lives within 25 miles of the closest gastroenterologist. However, 2,183 (69%) of the US counties do not have a practicing gastroenterologist, and 454 of the 1,167 metropolitan counties in the US do not have a gastroenterologist. Additionally, gastroenterologists in non-metropolitan counties tend to be older, with almost a third over the age of 65. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 10.02.2025

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained and wondered how to regain balance? Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. Whether you're dealing with daily stressors, managing anxiety, or recovering from addiction, taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. In California and beyond, many people are seeking ways to support their mental wellness, especially with the growing awareness around mental health issues. Mental health challenges can range from mild stress to more severe conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, or addiction. Fortunately, there are various ways to support your mental health, whether through lifestyle changes, professional help, or simple daily practices. In this blog, we will share practical strategies to help you on your mental health and wellness journey.

Prioritize Regular Physical Activity

Physical activity is not only great for your body; it’s great for your mind, too. Exercise releases endorphins, the "feel-good" chemicals in your brain, which can improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. You don’t need to run marathons to see benefits. Simple activities like walking, dancing, or even stretching can have a positive impact. Consistency is key. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could be as simple as a morning jog, a yoga session, or an after-dinner walk. Regular movement can help clear your mind, improve sleep, and boost self-esteem, all of which support better mental health. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Microbiome / 10.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Associate Professor Shawn Je Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What questions were you trying to address?  Response: The project started in 2013 when I met Professor Sven Petterson, then a visiting professor from the Karolinska Institute, during his time at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) in Singapore. At the time, our lab was studying autism, and we discovered that many children with autism also had gastrointestinal problems. This sparked my interest in the relationship between gut microbiota and brain disorders. Professor Petterson had already established a germ-free facility at NCCS to study the link between cancer and gut microbiota. I asked him if he could create germ-free C57BL/6 mice, a strain often used to study learning, memory and brain disorders. After developing the mice, we subjected them to behavioural testing at the Duke-NUS Behavioural Phenotyping Facility to assess their emotional responses (fear, anxiety, depression), cognitive abilities (learning and memory), and social interactions. We were surprised to find that the germ-free C57BL/6 mice exhibited increased anxiety, although no significant changes in social behaviours typical of autism were observed. Anxiety was assessed using tests in which mice were placed in an elevated arena with open and closed sections, and the time spent in each area was measured. The increased anxiety in these germ-free mice had not been reported before, so we repeated the tests several times to confirm the findings. Interestingly, other researchers had observed hyperactivity in germ-free mice of different strains, but our C57BL/6 mice showed unusual anxious behaviour, even though this strain typically has lower anxiety. This led us to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the increased anxiety in these mice, with the goal of discovering why this particular strain exhibited such pronounced anxiety. (more…)
Author Interviews, JAMA, Salt-Sodium, Stroke / 09.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Xiong Ding, MPH School of Public Health Wuhan University Wuhan, China MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Patients who have previously experienced a stroke are at high risk of recurrence, and in China, this risk is even higher than the global average. It is well established that high blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke recurrence, and lowering blood pressure is an effective preventive strategy. Salt substitutes, which replace part of sodium chloride with potassium chloride, have been shown to lower blood pressure by reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium intake. However, before our study, there was limited direct evidence demonstrating whether salt substitutes could reduce the risk of stroke recurrence and death. Therefore, we conducted this research as part of the Salt Substitute and Stroke Study (SSaSS), specifically focusing on stroke survivors to determine the long-term health effects of salt substitution in this high-risk population. (more…)
Author Interviews, Infections / 05.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Vishnu Chaturvedi, Ph.D., HCLD Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology New York Medical College Department of Pathology, Westchester Medical Center Valhalla, New York, MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? How does Candida auris differ from Candida albicans, ie in clinical presentation or treatment?    
  1. Candida aurisis a newly discovered yeast that is considered a global health threat by the CDC and WHO. The sudden emergence and rapid spread of this multidrug-resistant pathogen is being explained by several published hypotheses. These include global warming, salt water tolerance, or agriculture use of fungicides as plausible causes. In the US, the NY-NJ metropolitan area was the first to suffer from drug-resistant Candia auris clade I genotype. None of the earlier hypotheses could explain the appearance in NY-NJ. Here, we set out to answer two related questions: “why NY-NJ?” and “why clade I?”
  2. Candida albicansis a well-known commensal yeast that frequents human mucosal surfaces in the mouth, vagina, etc. In contrast, Candida auris is a newly discovered yeast that colonizes the skin of hospitalized patients and long-term care residents. A small subset of those colonized develop Candida auris bloodstream and deep tissue infections.
  3. Candida auris differs from  albicans in its ability to cause healthcare-associated infection outbreaks. Candida auris is also prone to rapid acquisition of the resistance of multiple antifungal drugs. Finally, C. auris bloodstream infections cause high mortality.
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Author Interviews, Heart Disease, OBGYNE / 05.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Cande V. Ananth PhD MPH Professor and Vice Chair for Academic Affairs Chief, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, NJ Editor-in-Chief, Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The rate of twin pregnancies worldwide has risen in recent decades, driven by fertility treatments and older maternal ages. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response: Compared to singleton pregnancies with normal blood pressure, people with twins with normal blood pressure were around twice as likely to be hospitalized with cardiovascular disease. For those with twins with high blood pressure during pregnancy, the risk was more than eight times higher.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Pediatrics, UCSD / 30.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: John Bellettiere, PhD Assistant Adjunct Professor Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health & Human Longevity Science University of California, San Diego MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  Smoking is the most common method of cannabis use and generates harmful emissions.  Cannabis is often smoked indoors, which exposes non-smokers, including children, to these emissions. Our research analyzed in-home cannabis smoking practices to determine if there is an association between this behavior and the detection of cannabis biomarkers in children. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Cognitive Issues, JAMA, Memory, Mental Health Research / 28.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Joshua Gowin PhD Assistant Professor, Radiology Anschutz Medical Campus University of Colorado  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Many people want to know how cannabis affects their brain and cognitive abilities. Previous studies have shown that cannabis use can impair learning and verbal memory function. Some evidence has shown that cannabis use is associated with smaller volume of areas of the prefrontal cortex. Our study investigated how cannabis use is associated with brain function. We examined brain function across 7 tasks in 1,000 adults. 88 of them had used cannabis over 1,000 times in their lives. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research / 28.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Christopher Choi, PhD, MBA Senior Vice President of Industry Partnerships Associate Professor of Oncology Technical Director of GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?  What is a GMP facility? Response: The opening of the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility (GEM) facility marks a significant milestone in advancing cell and gene therapy research at Roswell Park. Our GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) facility is a specialized manufacturing space designed to produce cell-based and gene-based products under stringent regulatory conditions to ensure product safety, quality and consistency. These facilities are critical for translating innovative research into clinical-grade products that meet regulatory standards for use in patient care. The GEM Facility is part of our commitment to driving the next generation of cancer treatments and other advanced therapies, addressing a critical bottleneck in the development of these transformative technologies. (more…)
Global Health, Health Care Workers / 27.01.2025

  The healthcare industry is in a state of constant transformation, driven by global trends such as an aging population, increased accessibility to care, and advances in medical knowledge. Professionals in the field are finding themselves at a crossroads where adapting to these changes is no longer optional but essential. Careers in healthcare have expanded beyond traditional roles, and there is now a demand for those who can balance expertise with innovation to meet the needs of diverse populations. Adapting to global trends is about staying ahead of the curve and aligning skills with new expectations. Healthcare professionals who prioritize continuous learning, implement new practices, and expand their expertise are better equipped to thrive in this evolving landscape. Whether it’s adopting holistic practices or understanding workforce dynamics, staying informed and flexible is key to success. Let’s explore more on this below: Focusing on Family Health to Meet Growing Needs Family health is a cornerstone of global healthcare, and its importance continues to grow as populations age and chronic conditions become more prevalent. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are rising and often affect multiple generations within a family, requiring coordinated care that meets the needs of both individuals and their broader support systems. Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) play a pivotal role in delivering comprehensive care that spans generations. From managing common illnesses to providing preventative care, FNPs help families navigate a range of health concerns. With increasing demand for accessible and personalized healthcare, the FNP role has never been more critical. Professionals seeking to advance in this field can benefit from programs like a 12 month FNP program online. These programs offer a practical path for healthcare workers to gain the necessary skills without pausing their current careers. Online education allows flexibility while equipping FNPs with the expertise to provide patient-centered care, manage chronic conditions, and promote preventative health. As family health needs continue to expand globally, those trained in FNP roles are positioned to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. (more…)
Author Interviews, Immunotherapy, Lymphoma / 27.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Joshua Brody MD Director, Lymphoma Immunotherapy Program Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine New York, New York 10029   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
  • Patients with relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) have poor outcomes.
  • Standard chemotherapy e.g. Gemcitabine + Oxaliplatin (GemOx) yields complete response in ~30% of these patients.
  • Epcoritamab, a CD3xCD20 bispecific antibody immunotherapy was recently approved for relapsed DLBCL as monotherapy but is not yet approved as part of combination therapy.
  • Other immunotherapies e.g. CAR-T have been difficult to combine with standard therapies.
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Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA / 25.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Silvia S. Martins, MD, PhD Associate Dean for Faculty Professor of Epidemiology Director, Substance Use Epidemiology Unit Co-Director, Substance Abuse Epidemiology T32 Program Department of Epidemiology Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health New York, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Much has been speculated on whether the enactment of medical and recreational cannabis laws can have a role in decreasing prescriptions for opioid pain relievers, opioid use and misuse, opioid use disorder, and overdose in the U.S. However, findings on the associations of medical cannabis laws alone and recreational cannabis las + medical cannabis laws with opioid-related outcomes are mixed. By the end of 2019, 32 U.S. states had adopted medical marijuana laws (MCL) alone. All states that went on to adopt recreational marijuana laws (RCL) had previously adopted an MCL. (more…)
Author Interviews, Disability Research, Exercise - Fitness, Pain Research / 21.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Cheryl A. Krause-Parello, PhD, RN, FAAN Associate Vice President for Research Associate Executive Director & Faculty Fellow Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention (I-HEALTH) Director, C-P.A.W.W. Canines Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors® Health Research Initiative for Veterans Professor (Secondary), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing Florida Atlantic University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Chronic pain, especially chronic low back pain, is a significant issue for U.S. military veterans, affecting 40–70% of this population and often leading to disability. Veterans experience higher rates of chronic pain than civilians, with back pain being the most prevalent type. Younger veterans and those from recent conflicts report more severe pain, while older veterans frequently face persistent chronic pain. Complicating factors include comorbid conditions such as PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and behavioral disorders, as well as an increased reliance on opioids, which pose risks of addiction and overdose. This underscores the need for nonpharmacological interventions like qigong, a traditional Chinese practice combining movement, breathing, and meditation, to address the biopsychosocial challenges of chronic low back pain. (more…)
Endocrinology, Hormone Therapy / 20.01.2025

Editor’s note:  There are short and long term risks of hormone therapy, including oxytocin. Hormone and supplements products may not be FDA tested or approved. All hormone therapy should be taken only under the direction of an experienced endocrinologist or medical provider. Please also remember that photos, text and illustrations on websites do not guarantee results.  Cardiovascular health is often viewed through a lens dominated by risk factors like cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle choices. While these are crucial, emerging research highlights a deeper interplay between hormones and heart health. Among these, the role of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," provides intriguing insights. However, the scope extends far beyond oxytocin, encompassing a web of hormonal influences that shape cardiovascular resilience and risk. This article explores these connections, emphasizing a more holistic understanding of heart health.

The Hormonal Web and the Heart

The cardiovascular system is heavily influenced by hormones, which act as chemical messengers coordinating various bodily functions. Key players include adrenaline, cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and oxytocin. These hormones regulate heart rate, blood vessel dilation, inflammation, and cholesterol metabolism. While acute hormonal changes prepare the body for immediate challenges, chronic imbalances can wreak havoc on cardiovascular health. For instance, prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels from stress contributes to hypertension, arterial damage, and increased risk of heart attack. Understanding these hormonal dynamics is essential for developing targeted interventions that not only treat symptoms but also address the root causes of cardiovascular issues.

Cortisol: The Stress-Induced Culprit

Cortisol, often dubbed the "stress hormone," is a double-edged sword. In short bursts, it helps manage acute stress by increasing heart rate and energy availability. However, chronic stress leads to consistently elevated cortisol levels, which can:
  • Increase blood pressure by promoting sodium retention.
  • Elevate blood sugar levels, contributing to insulin resistance and diabetes—both risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
  • Encourage visceral fat accumulation, which exacerbates inflammation and atherosclerosis.
Managing stress through mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is a cornerstone of reducing cortisol's harmful effects on the heart. (more…)
Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, Technology / 16.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof Alfonso Savastano Ospedale Generale Regionale “F. Miulli” - Acquaviva delle Fonti (BA) and Libera Università Mediterranea Degennaro (L.U.M.)- Casamassima (BA)  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The SING IMT® (Smaller-Incision New-Generation Implantable Miniature Telescope) is a novel, intraocular device for people blinded in the central vision by late-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of unpreventable blindness. It is approved for use in CE referenced countries and under investigation in the United States. Our study evaluated the intermediate-term visual and safety outcomes of the SING IMT in patients (n=35) 55 years and older at 6 months post-surgery and found that SING IMT implantation improved distance and near vision, with an expected impact on the corneal endothelium cell density and manageable safety outcomes. Key findings include:
  • At six months post-surgery, at least 1-, 2-, and 3-line gains in best-corrected distance (BCDVA) were achieved in 97.1 percent, 68.6 percent and 51.4 percent of operated eyes, respectively
  • The percentage of patients able to read at near distance increased from 28.6 percent at baseline to 97.1 percent at six months.
  • The study also found that corrected near visual acuity was also significantly improved by ⁓3 lines at 6 months post-surgery.
  • The mean (SD) change from baseline in corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) at six months in operated eyes was -280.7 (315.9) cells/mm2 (-11.4 %). This is a result similar to that seen with standard cataract surgery.
  • The most frequent adverse event was corneal edema, and all cases were resolved with topical medications.
(more…)
Author Interviews, Psychological Science / 16.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Xinyang Yu, PhD Candidate Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience King’s College London MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study explores how genetics, brain development, and mental health work together to influence eating behaviours in young people. By analysing data from nearly 1,000 adolescents, we investigated the relationships between eating behaviours, genetic predispositions for high BMI, and changes in brain structure and mental health from ages 14 to 23. The aim was to understand why disordered eating behaviours, such as restrictive dieting or emotional overeating, often emerge alongside mental health issues during adolescence—a time when eating disorders are increasingly common. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 15.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Vishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts AmherstVishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts Amherst MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: With more U.S. states moving toward the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, recent studies have explored electronic health record (EHR) documentation to understand the nature of cannabis use among patient populations. However, these efforts have not been extended to patient portal messaging, which allows patients to describe health-related behaviors in ways that may not be sufficiently captured in standard EHR documentation. The primary objective of this study was to identify patient and provider secure messages that discussed cannabis and contextualize these discussions over periods prior to and after its legalization for medical purposes in Pennsylvania. (more…)
Infections, Vaccine Studies / 14.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Professor Ooi Eng Eong Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme Duke-NUS Medical School and Shirin Kalimuddin Assistant Professor  and Senior Consultant Department of Infectious Diseases Singapore General Hospital and a faculty member of the Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme at Duke-NUS Medical School   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The recent pandemic taught us the importance of T cells to protect against COVID-19, especially severe disease. Indeed, where SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres have been too low to neutralise new variants of concern, there is now sizeable evidence that T cells can serve as the correlate of protection against symptomatic infection. However, most working on developing or applying vaccines to prevent diseases such as dengue, continue to focus on measuring antibodies. The goal of this study was thus to determine the extent to which T cells, in the absence of neutralising antibodies, can control infection and hence disease. We thus took advantage of two other viruses that are genetically related to dengue virus, with licensed vaccines that allow us to probe the effectiveness of T cells in controlling infection. The two vaccines are the live attenuated yellow fever vaccine and the Japanese encephalitis/yellow fever chimeric vaccine. The latter vaccine was constructed using the yellow fever vaccine as the genetic backbone but bearing the genes that encode the Japanese encephalitis viral membrane and envelope proteins. As neutralising antibodies target the envelope protein, vaccination with one vaccine would produce antibodies that would not neutralise the second vaccine. However, the T cell response, which mostly target the other proteins that remain common in both vaccine strains, would be identical.  (more…)
Neurology / 14.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Brian C. Callaghan, MD, Ph.D, FAAN, Chair of the American Academy of Neurology’s Health Services Research Subcommittee University of Michigan Health in Ann Arbor, Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Access to neurologists can be a challenge, but few studies have attempted to quantify wait times to see neurologists and the factors that affect how long a patient must wait. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Patients on Medicare wait an average of 34 days to see a neurologist after being referred by another physician with almost one in five waiting more than 90 days. (more…)
Education, Nursing, Technology / 10.01.2025

Key Takeaways

  • Online healthcare education offers flexibility for students to balance work and studies.
  • Technological advancements are enhancing virtual learning experiences.
  • Accreditation is crucial in choosing a reputable online program.
  • Affordability and financial aid can significantly impact student decisions.
  • There are challenges in maintaining practical hands-on training in virtual scenarios.

The Rise of Online Healthcare Education

The landscape of education has radically transformed with the advent of online learning platforms. In many fields, particularly healthcare, the demand for qualified professionals continues to grow, prompting numerous educational institutions to offer online nursing programs. These programs are meticulously designed to offer the same quality and depth of education as their traditional counterparts while providing students with the flexibility to learn at their convenience. Geographic barriers are dissolving as students can now attend lectures from the other side of the world, fostering a global educational community. This democratization of education ensures that learners from diverse backgrounds can access top-quality instruction, irrespective of their location. With the pandemic further accelerating the adoption of online education, it is clear that this modality is not just a temporary trend but a permanent shift in the educational paradigm. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Herpes Viruses / 08.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Or Shemesh PhD The Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology School of Pharmacy - Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study investigated the connection between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathologies. We explored how HSV-1 proteins are present in the brains of individuals with AD and examined their interactions with tau, a key protein in AD pathology. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  The main finding is that tau, traditionally seen as detrimental, might initially act as a protective response to HSV-1 by reducing neuronal death through an antiviral innate immunity pathway called cGAS-STING . Over time, this (initially beneficial) antiviral response of tau can manifest as the well established tau toxicity in Alzheimer's disease. (more…)
Author Interviews, Nutrition, Prostate Cancer / 29.12.2024

By Dr. Dan Sperling M.D., D.A.B.R. Medical Director and Chief of Interventional Uroradiology at the Sperling Prostate Center in Florida Medical Director of its parent practice, the Sperling Medical Group If the name Dr. Dean Ornish rings a bell, it’s probably because over 30 years ago he became the poster boy for preventing heart disease through diet and exercise. His 1990 book, “Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease,” made the NYTimes best seller list. To this day, when we think of Dr. Ornish, we think of a long and heart-healthy life. Although we don’t link Dr. Ornish with prostate health, there’s good reason to do so—but most men don’t know it. In 2008, the National Academy of Sciences published research  by Dr. Ornish and his team in an article titled “Changes in prostate gene expression in men undergoing an intensive nutrition and lifestyle intervention.” They broke new ground in our understanding of preventing prostate cancer (PCa). Dr. Ornish and his team showed that a comprehensive lifestyle program they designed actually caused changes in gene regulation. They designed an experimental lifestyle protocol and tested is on 30 PCa patients; all 30 had been diagnosed with low-risk PCa and were on Active Surveillance (no other treatment). At the start of the 3-month study, each patient’s biopsy samples were used to profile his PCa gene activity. Then all participants adhered faithfully to the following protocol:
  • A vegan (plant-based) diet (with 10% of calories from fat
  • Physical activity (walking 30 minutes a day for 6 days a week)
  • Stress reduction (yoga, progressive relaxation, breathing, meditation)
  • Dietary supplements (vitamins C and E, soy, fish oil, selenium)
  • A weekly support group to provide advice and sustain adherence to the program.
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