Dental Research / 25.05.2024

Table of Contents
  1. The Importance of Oral Health
  2. Routine Dental Checkups
  3. Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
  4. The Impact of Diet on Oral Health
  5. Lifestyle Choices Affecting Oral Health
  6. Benefits of Preventative Care 
The Importance of Oral Health smile-teethThere's more to oral health than just having straight teeth. It's a crucial part of general wellbeing. Tooth decay, gum disease, and even more severe systemic disorders can be brought on by poor oral hygiene. Remember to practice good oral hygiene to avoid these problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that untreated oral disorders can impede speech and eating and can lead to chronic inflammation, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like heart disease. Regular visits to a Holly Springs dentist can help manage and prevent such conditions. Investing time in oral health is crucial for future comfort and wellbeing. Simple habits like brushing twice daily and flossing can prevent many problems. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to tartar build-up, cavities, and tooth loss. Teaching children these habits early sets them up for a lifetime of good dental practices. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Health Care Systems / 25.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Srivastava Kodavatiganti, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Prescription and illicit opioid misuse and overdoses have continued to escalate in the U.S. with annual overdoses exceeding 110,000[1]. There was a substantial rise from 2013 to 2022 in the number of opioid-related overdoses due to synthetic opioids [2]. Even nonfatal opioid-involved overdoses increased 4% quarterly between January 2018 and March 2022 as observed by encounters by emergency medical services [3]. Although the eastern U.S. has been particularly impacted by fatal overdoses, annual increases have increased as of last year in the western states including in Nevada (+27.9%), Washington (+36.9%), Oregon (+38.6%), and Alaska (+45.9%).  In contrast, other states have seen more modest changes (New Mexico = +1.3%) including decreases (South Dakota = -2.4%, Nebraska = -19.5%) [1]. These findings underscore the importance for understanding patterns in usage of prevention and treatment strategies. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This crucial lifesaving tool is administered as an injection or as a nasal spray. This study characterized the patterns of naloxone prescriptions in Medicaid patients from 2018 – 2021 and Medicare patients for 2019. State level differences were also quantified as the fold difference in prescribing between the highest and lowest states when correcting for the number of enrollees in each state. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dermatology, Melanoma, Race/Ethnic Diversity / 24.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH Vice-Chair for Diversity and Inclusion Department of Dermatology Dermatologist Center for Diverse Skin Complexions Weill Cornell Medicine – NY MedicalResearch.com: What are the main types of skin cancer?  Is the incidence changing? Response: The 3 main types of skin cancer are melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States1 and 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. (2) The overall incidence has changed as follows: • Melanoma: Rates doubled over past 30 years from 1982 to 2011.3 It differs by age group. o Adolescents and adults age 30 and younger: incidence rate is declining o Older age groups (e.g. 80 and older): incidence rate is increasing • Squamous Cell Cancer: o Incidence increased 263% between 1976-1984 and 2000-20104 • Basal Cell Cancer: o Incidence increased 145% between 1976-1984 and 2000-20104 (more…)
Addiction, Mental Health Research / 23.05.2024

healthy-lifestyles-longevityAdopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for enhancing longevity and improving overall well-being, and it involves making conscious choices that benefit both physical and mental health. While physical health often gets the spotlight, mental health is equally crucial. The United States of America is grappling with mental health issues, and San Antonio serves as a bitter reminder. Despite San Antonio investing $26 invested in the Metropolitan Health District's Mental Health initiatives in 2022, much more effort is needed. A new study has revealed that Texas is the state with the worst access to mental healthcare in America. This finding highlights the importance of holistic approaches to health that encompass both mental and physical aspects. In this guide, we will discuss six key lifestyle modifications that can enhance longevity.

1.   Embrace Sober Living

Maintaining sobriety is a fundamental aspect of enhancing both physical and mental health. Substance abuse can lead to a myriad of health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and mental health disorders. A sober lifestyle can significantly improve your quality of life and increase your lifespan. This journey often requires support, which is where sober living facilities come into play. For those willing to embrace sober living San Antonio facilities, like New Day Sober Living, offers a secure environment where residents are surrounded by people who have similar goals and mindsets, which entails achieving long-term sobriety. These facilities offer structured living conditions and a community of peers who are also on the path to recovery. The supportive atmosphere helps individuals stay committed to their sobriety goals, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting overall well-being. By choosing sober living, you are taking a proactive step towards a healthier, longer life. (more…)
Addiction, Exercise - Fitness / 23.05.2024

Exercise is increasingly recognized as a potent tool in addiction recovery. Its benefits extend beyond physical health, reaching deep into the psychological and emotional realms where the battle for sobriety is often fought. Integrating regular physical activity into a recovery program can forge a critical path toward healing and long-term sobriety. This article explores how exercise can serve as a therapeutic aid in overcoming addiction, detailing the roles of various types of physical activities and the mechanisms through which they enhance the recovery process.

Benefits of Exercise in Recovery

exercise-and-addiction-recoveryExercise triggers the release of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood lifters. This biochemical shift is crucial for individuals recovering from addiction, as it helps reduce the dependency on substances used to achieve similar feelings. Regular physical activity also helps to establish a routine, a vital component of a stable recovery environment. As exercise becomes a regular part of one’s life, it fosters discipline and a sense of accomplishment, both of which are fundamental in building a sober life. (more…)
Author Interviews / 22.05.2024

For nurses, managing the demands of their profession while taking care of their own well-being can be a significant challenge. Long hours, high stress, and emotional demands can take a toll, making self-care an essential component of their routine. This article explores practical self-care strategies tailored for nurses on the go, offering advice on maintaining physical health, mental clarity, and emotional stability. By integrating these practices into their daily lives, nurses can enhance their resilience and provide the best care for their patients while also taking care of themselves.

Prioritizing Physical Health

Physical health is the foundation of a nurse's ability to perform their duties. Regular exercise, even in short bursts, can significantly improve physical stamina and overall health. Simple activities like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, a quick walk during breaks, or stretching exercises can be integrated into a busy schedule. Proper nutrition is also crucial; packing healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, and yogurt can help sustain energy throughout long shifts. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased cognitive function. (more…)
Nutrition, Probiotics / 22.05.2024

Earlier most probiotic research focused on their role in digestive health and immunity but newer research indicates that probiotics can have additional benefits, especially for women. Some probiotics can help restore and maintain vaginal microflora which would reduce the risk of vaginal infections while others may help to reduce menopause symptoms. Preliminary research also shows that specific probiotic strains can lower stress levels, aid weight loss for those who are overweight, and decrease wrinkles.
  1. Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the most well-known probiotic-rich foods. Not all yogurt contains live probiotics because sometimes processing can kill them which is why you should look for varieties labeled with "live and active cultures". Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most common probiotics in yogurt so if, for some reason, you are unable to include yogurt in your daily diet, you can take a probiotic capsule that contains these bacteria. You can also compare probiotic supplements for women to see which one is best suited to your needs. (more…)
Cancer Research, Environmental Risks / 22.05.2024

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of compounds utilized in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, such as firefighting foams and military equipment. Recent research has raised concerns about the possible health implications of PFAS exposure, specifically its association with testicular cancer. Firefighters and military personnel are particularly vulnerable owing to work exposure to PFAS-containing chemicals. This article explores the connection between PFAS exposure and testicular cancer, focusing on the impact on firefighters and military personnel. It will also discuss the legal recourse available for these individuals through AFFF lawsuits. (more…)
Author Interviews, Pulmonary Disease, Sleep Disorders / 21.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ankit Parekh, PhD Director of the Sleep And Circadian Analysis (SCAN) Group Assistant Professor of Medicine (Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine) Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Sleep apnea is associated with incident cardiovascular disease, and is a common chronic condition affecting over a billion people worldwide. In diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, it is imperative to establish the type of sleep apnea—whether it is obstructive or central sleep apnea. The differential contribution of central vs. obstructive sleep apnea toward incidental cardiovascular disease in those with significant sleep apnea has not been well studied. Our group has developed an automated algorithm that deduces on a breath-by-breath level whether reductions in airflow are predominantly due to obstructive or central phenomena. Our algorithm uses several features that are known to be key in distinguishing the type of events and derives a probability of obstruction across each “small” (reduced amplitude) breath. The breath-by-breath probability is then used to determine whether a patient’s burden of sleep apnea is predominantly obstructive or central. In this work, we analyzed sleep study data from The Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) cohort (N=2793) consisting of elderly men, across two visits separated on average by 6.5 years, and derived the probability of obstruction on a breath-by-breath level. The median probability of obstruction for each subject was computed and analyzed against outcomes of cardiovascular disease. We also assessed the stability of the metric in those without any prevalent cardiovascular disease. We find that median probability of obstruction was stable across the two visits, and those with any incident cardiovascular disease had a lower median probability of obstruction: patients with incident cardiovascular outcomes had a significant burden of sleep apnea that was predominantly “central” in nature. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Mental Health Research / 21.05.2024

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, where clinical skills and knowledge are paramount, the power of empathy in leadership can sometimes be overlooked. However, leading with empathy in the healthcare sector is not just a nice-to-have quality; it's a pivotal trait that can shape patient outcomes, staff satisfaction, and the overall healthcare environment. This article delves into why empathy is crucial in healthcare leadership, supported by real-world insights and strategies to foster a culture of empathy.

The Impact of Technological Advancements

As technology continues to evolve within the healthcare sector, creating new opportunities for enhancing patient care, it's crucial that empathy doesn't get lost in the shuffle. Innovative tools and systems should be seen as avenues to deepen our understanding and connection with patients, rather than as barriers to the human touch. Embracing technology with empathetic intention can lead to an even greater level of personalized care. One specific area where empathy can play a transformative role is in addressing HR challenges in behavioral health. Understanding the unique nature of these challenges, and the emotional toll they can take on staff, is crucial for leaders who strive to create a supportive work environment. This deeper understanding can drive the implementation of effective solutions, fostering a workplace where empathy and professionalism thrive together. (more…)
Endocrinology, Exercise - Fitness, Genetic Research / 21.05.2024

As public interest in health and wellness continues to grow, so does the number of innovative trends aimed at improving physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These new trends offer accessible and effective ways to enhance lifestyle choices and promote overall health. Individuals need to stay informed about these developments to make educated decisions that align with their health goals. By embracing novel and scientifically backed wellness practices, people can significantly enhance their quality of life, finding balance and improved health through modern solutions.

1.   Digital Fitness Apps

Digital fitness apps have redefined the way people engage with personal fitness, providing tools that help users manage their health and wellness directly from their smartphones. These apps offer a range of functionalities, including personalized workout plans, step tracking, calorie counting, and even virtual coaching sessions. The integration of these features makes it easier for users to stay committed to their fitness goals, providing a convenient and adaptable approach to exercise that fits into the user's lifestyle. The benefits of digital fitness apps extend beyond simple workout assistance; they also play a crucial role in motivating users to stay active and healthy. By setting personalized goals and receiving instant feedback on progress, users can see tangible results that encourage continued effort. Additionally, many apps now offer social connectivity features, allowing users to join communities of like-minded individuals who support and inspire each other. This sense of community can be particularly motivating, making it easier for individuals to maintain a consistent fitness routine. (more…)
Author Interviews, CDC, Infections / 20.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Cathryn Haigh, Ph.D. Chief Prion Cell Biology Unit Laboratory of Neurological Infections and Immunity National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Division of Intramural Research, Rocky Mountain Laboratories National Institutes of Health Hamilton, MT 59840 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study,  ie what are prions/prion-related diseases?  Where are prions found? Response: Prion diseases are infectious neurodegenerative diseases of humans and animals.  In humans these diseases often manifest as rapidly progressing dementias but are rarely caused by a known exposure to the infectious agents (prions).  More commonly they are sporadic (no known cause) or hereditary. One form of human disease is believed to have arisen from eating beef contaminated with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (as known as mad cow disease).  This has resulted in concerns that chronic wasting disease (CWD), a prion disease affecting deer, elk and moose, might also have the potential to cross the species barrier and cause disease in humans.  To date, transmissions of CWD prions to cynomolgus macaques have been negative, a good sign that crossing the species barrier would not be easy, but macaques are not human so we wanted to test whether CWD could infect human brain tissue. To do this we used a human cerebral organoid model (mini human brain tissues grown from skin cells in a laboratory) and directly exposed the organoids to prions from the brains of animals that had died of CWD. (more…)
Author Interviews / 20.05.2024

Proper-Hand-WashingIn recent years, our communities have faced unprecedented challenges to public health and hygiene, especially after the most recent global pandemic. Beyond the immediate crises, longstanding issues like poor dietary choices and the rising stress levels in people worldwide have further highlighted the critical need for robust health and hygiene practices. These concerns, while global in scale, demand local solutions—initiatives that begin in our own neighborhoods. Promoting health and hygiene at a community level not only addresses these urgent issues but also sets the foundation for broader national change. This article offers ten tips for anyone eager to lead such transformative efforts within their community, underscoring that even the smallest steps can pave the way to significant health improvements for all.
  1. Educate Yourself and Others
Empowering yourself with knowledge is the cornerstone of health advocacy. Understanding the latest public health guidelines and hygiene practices can significantly impact your ability to foster change. Organize community workshops and health talks with local health professionals to spread this knowledge. These gatherings can be held at community centers, libraries, or online platforms, making them accessible to a wider audience. Distributing flyers, creating informational pamphlets, and using community bulletin boards can also help in educating people who might not have access to digital resources. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cost of Health Care, Gastrointestinal Disease, Health Care Systems / 20.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Laura Targownik, MD Lead author and Clinician-Investigator Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto Departmental Division Director, Gastroenterology and Hepatology University of Toronto MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Was there a difference in the types of patients or need for surgery seen by the female/male physicians? Response: The background for this study is that there is an emerging body of literature that having a female physician leads to better patient outcomes in many health care settings, especially amongst patients undergoing surgery or being admitted to hospital.  However, this has not previously been evaluated in gastroenterology.  Female and male gastroenterologists may have different styles of practice on average, and this potentially could lead to differences in how patients engage with the health care system following an initial assessment. (more…)
Dermatology / 17.05.2024

Our skin is subject to a multitude of internal and external influences that can affect its thickness and texture over time. Factors such as aging, environmental aggressors, lifestyle choices, and genetics can contribute to the gradual thinning and deterioration of skin quality. However, the good news is that there are various approaches to address these concerns and promote the restoration of skin thickness and texture. In this article, we'll explore a few crucial factors that, according to research, play pivotal roles in this rejuvenation process.

The Proliferation and Migration of Skin Cells

skin-care-dermatologyAccording to the National Institutes of Health, at the core of skin thickness and texture restoration lies the process of cell proliferation and migration. The epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, constantly undergoes renewal through a process known as epidermal turnover. Stem cells within the basal layer of the epidermis divide and differentiate into keratinocytes. These gradually migrate upward to the skin's surface, replacing old, damaged cells. According to Beyond CellCare, stem cell therapy differs from traditional treatments, which only target the symptoms of skin aging. By fostering cellular repair and renewal, it targets the fundamental mechanisms of aging. Furthermore, certain skincare ingredients and treatments, such as chemical exfoliants and professional procedures like microdermabrasion and chemical peels, can accelerate cell turnover. You’ll also find the use of exosome injection and similar therapy methods involving exosomes becoming popular in this regard. Exosomes facilitate skin cell proliferation and migration by transferring growth factors and signaling molecules. (Please note that exosomes are currently not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat or diagnose any disease). (more…)
Aging, Author Interviews, Frailty, JAMA, Orthopedics / 16.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Chintan V. Dave PharmD, PhD Assistant Professor of Pharmacy and Epidemiology Assistant Director Rutgers Center for Pharmacoepidemiology and Treatment Science Academic Director Rutgers Center for Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics Rutgers University New Brunswick, New Jersey MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study examined the association between initiation of an antihypertensive medication and its correlation with fracture risk among older nursing home veterans. (more…)
Diabetes, Genetic Research / 16.05.2024

How At-Home Genetic Testing Can Detect Your Diabetes Risk 

Disclaimer: This blog content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. In recent years, the popularity of at-home genetic testing has surged, offering individuals ease and convenience at their doorstep. These tests provide a glimpse into their genetic blueprint and the potential health risks they might face. The promise of insights into various genetic predispositions, including the risk for diseases like diabetes is one you can’t miss.  While these tests can provide valuable information about one's genetic susceptibility to diabetes, it is crucial to approach the results with caution. They are not a substitute for traditional methods of diabetes screening and risk assessment but can complement them by providing additional layers of insight. (more…)
Allergies / 16.05.2024

Allergy drops, not to be confused with allergy eye drops, have been gaining popularity for their convenient and effective approach to tackling pesky allergies. But are allergy drops the same as allergy immunotherapy? This option falls under the umbrella of allergy immunotherapy, and while allergy drops are allergy immunotherapy, not all allergy immunotherapy are allergy drops.  In this blog, we’ll explore allergy immunotherapy and allergy drops to help you better understand the best course of action for combatting your pesky allergies. 

Understanding Allergy Immunotherapy

Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) is a treatment that desensitizes the body to an allergen. It’s much unlike traditional allergy treatments, such as corticosteroids, decongestants, and antihistamines, because it focuses on the allergy, not the symptoms.  To understand how it works, we need to understand what an allergy is. Simply put, an allergy is a reaction in the body to a foreign substance called an allergen, such as bee venom or pet dander. When your body comes into contact with the allergen, your antibodies send a signal to specific cells that release chemicals, resulting in an allergic reaction.  allergies-allergy-pexelsThe reaction triggers the symptoms you recognize as your allergy, such as a runny nose and itchy eyes.  To desensitize your body to the allergen and help your body become less reactive, allergy immunotherapy delivers a small dose of the allergen under your skin or tongue. This small, incrementally increasing dose helps your body adjust, “training” it to become less sensitive.  It achieves this result by minimizing the production of “blocking” antibodies responsible for the reaction. Over time and with consistent doses, you may find that you can be exposed to the allergen with little to no reaction.  However, it’s important to note that everybody is different. Most people notice some results within the first year, but the most noticeable results usually take two to three years after beginning treatment.  (more…)
Addiction / 15.05.2024

Table of Contents:
  • Key Takeaways
  • The Importance of Community in Recovery
  • The Power of Sharing Journeys
  • Leveraging Virtual Gatherings for Support
  • The Enduring Benefits of Mentorship
  • The Support of Personal Networks
  • Engaging in Community Events
Key Takeaways:
  • Support systems are crucial for both the process of healing and individual growth.
  • Building and maintaining online and offline community connections can provide a balanced support system.
  • Engagement with various support structures, including mentorships and personal relationships, fosters recovery and growth.
The Importance of Community in Recovery Beginning the recovery journey is a deeply personal experience, but it cannot be done alone. Having the support of a community is essential. Seeing the successes of others provides guidance and a feeling of belonging that is crucial for those seeking sobriety. Studies have shown that these communities empower individuals, providing the necessary tools for resilience and self-advocacy. Formal and informal networks serve as safety nets, keeping individuals motivated and accountable on their path to sobriety. (more…)
Author Interviews, CDC, Exercise - Fitness / 15.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Tessa Clemens, PhDH Health scientist in the Division of Injury Prevention CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Data showed an increase in drowning deaths after years of decline and drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages 1-4. We know that swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning, but not everyone has the same access to swimming lessons. In this study, we described which groups saw the greatest increases in drowning and analyzed swimming skills and swimming lesson participation data. (more…)
Aging, Social Issues / 12.05.2024

 Supporting a family member to age comfortably at home can range from regular check-ins at a parent's place to aiding a partner in daily tasks like bathing and cooking, along with managing medications and giving injections. No matter the extent of your assistance, the following suggestions can enable your loved one to stay at home comfortably for as long as possible.

Create a plan

Balancing immediate needs with future considerations is crucial. Managing day-to-day tasks alongside medical appointments and medication renewals is essential, all while considering potential challenges related to your loved one's health and age. While you can't predict everything, proactive planning allows for better emergency responses. Don't handle it solo; create a support network with family and friends.
  • Identify responsibilities and reach agreement. Inquire about each team member's willingness to aid in the person's care. Even those at a distance can manage tasks like bill payments, medication orders, and arranging medical appointments. Collaborate on a strategy with them.
  • Assess your own capabilities honestly. Determine what tasks you're comfortable handling. If direct caregiving makes you uneasy, such as assisting with bathing, explore if another team member can take over or discuss the possibility of hiring professional help.
  • Document the plan comprehensively. Having a written plan ensures clarity among all team members, including the care recipient, thereby minimizing confusion. Keep in mind that the plan may need adjustments over time; update it accordingly.
(more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research / 12.05.2024

 Brussels, 10 May 2024. Gum health may play a pivotal role in overall health and quality of being, and deserves to be better acknowledged and explored by the research community. That is why the EFP promotes Gum Health Day 2024 on 12 May, an outreach initiative celebrated in more than 30 countries around the world to raise awareness among the medical profession and the general public of the importance of periodontal health. Dr Mia Rakic, Gum Health Day 2024 co-ordinator and member of the executive committee of the EFP (European Federation of Periodontology, efp.org), explains why Gum Health Day 2024 focuses on Generation Z and why gum health is so relevant: (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Pain Research, Personalized Medicine / 10.05.2024

On your path to recovery after an injury, you’ll find that medical science keeps evolving. New treatments and tech are not just healing; they’re changing the game of how we bounce back. Guided by fresh insights into technology, we make sure your way back is as effective as it is straightforward. Photo by cottonbro studio Healing Faster: Breakthroughs in Recovery from Personal InjuriesUnderstanding the Latest Diagnostic Tools Enhancing Personal Injury Recovery In the realm of personal injury recovery, precision in diagnosis is key. Advanced imaging techniques such as High-definition fiber tractography (HDFT) now allow for a superior visualization of neural pathways. Medical pros can pinpoint where you’re hurt with such precision, crafting a rehab plan that fits just right. Thanks to biomarker technology, figuring out how long recovery will take has gotten a whole lot smarter. Imagine doctors using clues from your body’s own building blocks—genes and proteins—to create a recovery plan that’s all about you. It means less wondering, “Will this work?” and more knowing it will help stitch things back together quickly. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, University of Pittsburgh / 09.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Roderick J. O’Sullivan PhD Associate Professor Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology UPMC Hillman Cancer Center University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: For a few years, my group has had the good fortune of collaborating with Dr. Ivan Ahel. Ivan is a world leader in the field of ADP-ribosylation. His work has identified major gaps in our understanding of ADP-ribosylation. This includes his lab discovering that DNA bases can be ADP-ribosylated in bacteria and that a poorly characterized enzyme known as TARG1 could be involved in that process. In discussing this work with Ivan, we were confident that DNA ADP-ribosylation also exists in human cells and that showing this could be pretty important. The problem was that identifying a part of the genome where it might be present, so we could study it, was not so obvious and challenging. But we had a hunch that telomeres could be one part of the genome where it could happen!! Telomeres are really special structures located at the ends of each human chromosome. They demarcate the physical end of each chromosome and prevent chromosomes from becoming entangled – which if it happens, is catastrophic for cells. Our hunch was based on the evidence from other studies that telomeres are natural targets of PARP1, the enzyme that catalyzes most of the ADP-ribosylation in human cells. I then discussed this idea with Anne Wondisford, a medical scientist trainee in the lab, who liked the idea and designed a series of experiments to test it. (more…)
ADHD, Author Interviews, Heart Disease, Stroke / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr Anders Holt MD PhD Department of Cardiology Copenhagen University Hospital–Herlev and Gentofte Gentofte Hospitalsvej Hellerup, Denmark MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What types of ADHD treatments were in the study? Response: An increasing number of adults are being diagnosed with ADHD and subsequently treated. Taking the drugs' effect on the sympathetic nervous system into account, it seems relevant to investigate whether treatment could be associated with an elevated long-term risk of cardiovascular disease. The drugs included in the study were methylphenidate, atomoxetine, lisdexamfetamine, dexamfetamine, and modafinil. Owing to the fact that atomoxetine is not a sympathomimetic amine as the others, separate supplementary analyses were carried out for this drug, yielding similar results. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brain Injury, Cannabis / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Pamela Maher, PhD Research Professor Cellular Neurobiology Laboratory SALK Institute for Biologic Studies La Jolla California   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Several years ago, we tested several different cannabinoids for protection against the oxytosis/ferroptosis regulated cell death pathway and found CBN (cannabinol) to be one of the most effective. While THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidol) were also quite protective, we wanted to pursue non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Since we are interested in maintaining brain function in the context of aging and disease, we thought that a psychoactive compound could be problematic. In addition, there was already a lot of work on CBD, so we thought we could learn more and contribute more to the field by studying CBN. (more…)
Author Interviews, Sexual Health, Urology / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: dr-michelle-pearlman-mdDr. Amy Pearlman MD GenitoUrinary Surgeon and Sexual Medicine Specialist Board-Certified in Urology MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There is significant controversy within urology (and in mainstream conversation) regarding penile enhancement. Our clinical experience with the PhalloFill protocol over the last 4 years has yielded great clinical and safety results. The purpose of our research is to study our outcomes in a more scientific fashion and, as a result, to be able to use this information to help educate potential patients, current patients, interested folks in the community, and other healthcare providers. (more…)