Author Interviews

02 Feb

Posted at 19:02h in Author Interviews
[caption id="attachment_66326" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Simplifying the Patient Experience Pexels Image[/caption] The healthcare industry has seen significant change recently as more focus is on offering people more easily available and more effective medical treatments. Sometimes, a patient's capacity to get quick treatment is hampered because, in the past, medical attention required appointments that took a lot of time, long waiting times and frequent in-person visits. On the other hand, developments in healthcare solutions have streamlined the patient experience and guaranteed that people obtain high-quality medical treatment with the least disturbance.  Building medical care accessibility and convenience    Geography, mobility issues, or hectic schedules often make it difficult for patients to access medical treatments. Technology-driven healthcare solutions have significantly reduced these barriers by enabling remote consultations, online prescriptions, and timely treatments. Eliminating logistical challenges ensures that modern healthcare systems allow people to seek medical attention without disrupting their daily routines. This shift toward convenience particularly benefits patients with chronic conditions, who require ongoing care but may find frequent clinic or hospital visits challenging. Online providers such as Anytime Doctor are very important in ensuring patients get competent and timely treatment free from needless waits, optimising access to medical care. As digital healthcare develops, these developments will increase patient outcomes, improve accessibility, and redefine medical treatment.

30 Jan

Posted at 01:15h in Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Pediatrics, UCSD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66243" align="alignleft" width="150"]John Bellettiere, PhDAssistant Adjunct Professor Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health & Human Longevity Science University of California, San Diego Dr. Bellettiere[/caption] 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.

28 Jan

Posted at 22:28h in Author Interviews, Cannabis, Cognitive Issues, JAMA, Memory, Mental Health Research
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66219" align="alignleft" width="200"]Joshua Gowin PhDAssistant Professor, Radiology Anschutz Medical Campus University of Colorado  Dr. Gowin[/caption] 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.

28 Jan

Posted at 15:22h in Author Interviews, Cancer Research
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66204" align="alignleft" width="200"]Christopher Choi, PhD, MBASenior Vice President of Industry Partnerships Associate Professor of Oncology Technical Director of GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY Dr. Choi[/caption] 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.

27 Jan

Posted at 10:59h in Author Interviews, Immunotherapy, Lymphoma
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66115" align="alignleft" width="130"]Joshua Brody MDDirector, Lymphoma Immunotherapy Program Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine New York, New York 10029 Dr. Brody[/caption] 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.

25 Jan

Posted at 16:17h in Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66106" align="alignleft" width="200"]Silvia S. Martins, MD, PhDAssociate 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 Dr. Martins[/caption] 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.

21 Jan

Posted at 18:58h in Author Interviews, Disability Research, Exercise - Fitness, Pain Research
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_66034" align="alignleft" width="133"]Cheryl A. Krause-Parello, PhD, RN, FAANAssociate 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 Dr. Cheryl Krause-Parello[/caption] 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.

16 Jan

Posted at 20:04h in Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, Technology
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. [caption id="attachment_65965" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Ocular Telescope for Blindness from Ocular Degeneration SING IMT for Late-Stage, Age-Related Macular Degeneration from Samsara Vision[/caption] 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.

16 Jan

Posted at 19:40h in Author Interviews, Psychological Science
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65957" align="alignleft" width="160"]Xinyang Yu Xinyang Yu[/caption] 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.

15 Jan

Posted at 00:59h in Author Interviews, Cannabis
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.

14 Jan

Posted at 19:05h in Author Interviews

According to Florida law, you can only use cannabis for medical purposes, such as pain relief or anxiety. If you have a medical diagnosis, obtaining a permit is fairly simple. You need to see a certified doctor and pay a fee. However, it is important to be aware of this...

13 Jan

Posted at 13:06h in Author Interviews
routine-foot-care.jpg   Foot pain or dry, cracked heels often disrupt comfort and daily routines. Neglecting foot health can lead to discomfort, infections, and long-term issues. These challenges affect mobility and reduce overall well-being, especially without consistent care. Common foot problems often go unnoticed, worsening over time.   Routine foot care by a foot specialist plays a critical role in improving foot health and preventing serious issues. Regular preventive maintenance helps avoid infections, reduces discomfort, and promotes better mobility. It contributes significantly to overall health and ensures long-lasting comfort in daily activities.   This article offers practical insights into routine foot care for maintaining healthy feet. Simple, consistent care practices can prevent common problems and enhance foot health for all individuals.

08 Jan

Posted at 11:49h in Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Herpes Viruses
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65850" align="alignleft" width="150"]Dr. Or Shemesh PhDThe Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology School of Pharmacy - Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr. Or Shemesh[/caption] 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.

08 Jan

Posted at 07:12h in Author Interviews, Disability Research, Pediatrics
Author Bio: Lorraine Culpo is a dedicated writer with a focus on healthcare, disability advocacy, and family well-being. With a passion for shedding light on the importance of early pediatric support, she aims to empower readers with insights into how comprehensive care can shape brighter futures for children with disabilities. pediatric-care-academic-support.jpg Pediatric care plays an essential role in helping children grow and develop, especially those living with disabilities. Through early support, medical care, and learning resources, pediatric care improves children’s outcomes and builds a foundation for a more inclusive society. Understanding how pediatric care shapes disability support can help families, educators, and healthcare providers create an environment where every child can thrive.

Early Support Changes Lives

Early support services can make a big difference for children with disabilities. When doctors and specialists spot developmental challenges early, children can get help sooner. This early start allows them to build important skills at key stages of growth. For example, speech therapy can help a child with delayed language skills improve their ability to communicate. Physical therapy can help children with motor challenges gain strength and coordination, while occupational therapy services support the development of everyday functional skills. These interventions work best when they begin as early as possible, which increases the chances that children will meet milestones that lead to more independence. In many cases, NDIS treatment plans for children ensure that the support they receive is tailored to their specific developmental and medical requirements. It provides a structured approach that aligns with their long-term goals.

02 Jan

Posted at 23:28h in Author Interviews
Please note: Supplements are generally not FDA tested or approved. Some supplements can interfere with medications and/or cause side effects. Do not delay seeking medical attention for medical concerns by taking supplements without medical advice. Please discuss any and all supplements you take with your health care provider and be sure to follow your provider’s recommendations for your prostate and overall health. Supplements should not be given to children, breast feeding or pregnant women without the specific advice or your medical provider.   [caption id="attachment_65779" align="aligncenter" width="500"]How to Keep Your Immune System Strong Image source[/caption] Have you ever felt like you’re constantly battling colds or other illnesses? Whether it’s the flu season, allergy season, or just the daily grind, your immune system works hard to keep you healthy. Your immune system is your body’s defense system, protecting you from harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses. A strong immune system helps you recover quickly, while a weak one leaves you feeling run-down. Keeping your immune system strong year-round isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about forming healthy habits and giving your body the support it needs. By making smart choices with your diet, lifestyle, and stress management, you can boost your immune health and feel your best. In this blog, we will share practical ways to support your immune system and stay healthy throughout the year.

Eat a Balanced and Nutrient-Rich Diet

If you want a stronger immune system, start with what’s on your plate. Your body needs vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to fight off illness. Focus on adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to your meals. Foods like citrus fruits, berries, spinach, nuts, and chicken give you key nutrients like vitamins C, D, and E, plus zinc. These help keep your body ready to defend you. Eating a balanced diet doesn’t have to be complicated—stick to simple, whole foods, and your body will thank you.

Support Your Gut Health

A large part of your immune function is located in your digestive tract. When your gut is healthy, your body can better fight off harmful invaders. Probiotics, prebiotics, and supplements that support your gut lining can help maintain a healthy immune system. Using supplements like Mega Mucosa can help support a healthy mucosal barrier, which is essential for strong immune defenses. This supplement contains ingredients that promote microbial diversity and help maintain the gut lining. At places like Lakeland Drug Company, you can find products designed to give your immune system the support it needs. They provide trusted options to help you care for your immune health year-round.

01 Jan

Posted at 11:37h in Author Interviews, Technology
advancing field medicine Field medicine has changed greatly over the years. The focus has been on creating faster, more efficient, and easier-to-use healthcare tools. Portable medical systems are especially important because they help provide immediate care during emergencies, natural disasters, and military operations. These advancements are making a big difference in how healthcare professionals handle challenges in remote areas for tactical combat casualty care. Portable systems are improving response times and saving lives. This article looks at some of the key innovations and what they mean for the future.

Why Portable Medical Systems Matter

In emergencies, having portable medical devices can save lives. Lightweight and compact equipment allows healthcare teams to reach places where traditional machines cannot go. These tools ensure that doctors and nurses can deliver care even in remote locations or areas with little infrastructure. Portable ultrasound machines, for instance, help healthcare workers see real-time images of injuries or conditions without needing a hospital setting. In emergency zones, an army medical tent equipped with these devices can serve as a lifesaving center and help provide rapid assessments and care. Similarly, handheld ECG devices let providers monitor heart activity during transport. These tools are not only smaller but also built to last in tough environments.

29 Dec

Posted at 14:02h in Author Interviews, Nutrition, Prostate Cancer
[caption id="attachment_65733" align="alignleft" width="201"]By Dr. Dan Sperling M.D., D.A.B.R.sMedical Director and Chief of Interventional Uroradiology at the Sperling Prostate Center in Florida Medical Director of its parent practice, the Sperling Medical Group Dr. Sperling[/caption] 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.

26 Dec

Posted at 14:02h in Author Interviews
[caption id="attachment_65691" align="aligncenter" width="500"]wearable-technologies Image Source[/caption] Chronic illness management has grown easier due to technological developments and inventive treatments. From wearable gadgets to real-time health tracking, technology is changing the way patients receive treatment. These advancements enable people to monitor and control their health proactively from home. As healthcare providers adopt these tools, patient outcomes improve, and the burden on facilities decreases. With a focus on seamless communication, digital health tools foster stronger doctor-patient relationships.  In this article, we will explore how technology is revolutionizing chronic disease management, focusing on its practical applications and benefits. Let’s discuss five key ways technology is driving change.

24 Dec

Posted at 23:17h in Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Lymphoma, Nutrition, University of Pennsylvania
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65650" align="alignleft" width="200"]Shan Liu, PhD, Postdoctoral fellowPerelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Dr. Shan Liu[/caption] Shan Liu, PhD, Postdoctoral fellow Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study provides evidence that the efficacy of CAR T cell immunotherapies can be influenced by an important lifestyle factor: diet.   MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Our study found that a ketogenic diet can enhance CAR T cell function through its metabolite, β-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Importantly, instead of altering the diet, providing BHB via oral supplementation in our preclinical model is sufficient to improve the anti-tumor function of CAR T cells. However, it's important to note that we’re still in the early stages, and we’re not yet recommending any dietary changes or supplements for patients.

17 Dec

Posted at 16:25h in Author Interviews, Clots - Coagulation, Environmental Risks
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65560" align="alignleft" width="200"]Pamela L Lutsey PhD, MPHProfessor, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota Dr. Lutsey[/caption] Pamela L Lutsey PhD, MPH Professor, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Air pollution is ubiquitous. In order to understand the impact of exposure on health, it is necessary to look across diverse health conditions. Associations with lung disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are more established. Less is known about the role of air pollution exposure on coagulation and venous thromboembolism (VTE). MedicalResearch.com: Are individuals less ambulatory in heavily polluted areas? The study did not address this question directly. The association did persist across a wide range of subgroups of the sample, including those who were not smokers and who had no evidence of lung disease.

16 Dec

Posted at 19:09h in Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Exercise - Fitness, Hematology
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65529" align="alignleft" width="200"]Janine Joseph, MS, MBASenior Research Specialist Cancer Prevention & Control Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY Janine Joseph, MS[/caption] Janine Joseph, MS, MBA Senior Research Specialist Cancer Prevention & Control Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Due to improvements in treatments, patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are experiencing longer lifespans and seeking ways to enhance their quality-of-life.  Fatigue, pain and negative psychological states such as anxiety and depression are common in cancer patients, including patients with MM.  Pain is particularly relevant, as MM can cause painful osteolytic (bone) lesions. The trials we discussed at ASH were aimed at evaluating the effect of exercise, specifically supervised resistance training and unsupervised walking exercise, on these and other states, including physical function and immune profile.

11 Dec

Posted at 20:40h in Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Biomarkers
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65442" align="alignleft" width="180"]Alberto J. Espay, MD, MSc, FAANProfessor of Neurology Director and Endowed Chair Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's disease and Movement Disorders University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center Prof. Espay[/caption] Alberto J. Espay, MD, MSc, FAAN Professor of Neurology Director and Endowed Chair Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's disease and Movement Disorders University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings Response:  Because aducanumab, lecanemab, and donanemab were only in a minority of anti-amyloid treatments showing a benefit, I was interested in finding out what makes them special. It turns out that they not only clean the brain from amyloid, like other monoclonal anti-Aβ antibodies, but they also increase Aβ42 in the spinal fluid, which is a measure of the normal protein in the brain. Everyone with Alzheimer’s has low Aβ42 levels because this protein clumps into amyloid plaques. I tested the hypothesis that increasing Aβ42 could explain the cognitive outcomes at least as well as decreasing amyloid, and that’s exactly what we found. This suggests that restoring the normal protein levels, Aβ42, may explain why some anti-amyloid treatments (presumably those that increased those levels the most) come with benefits.

05 Dec

Posted at 13:54h in Author Interviews, Medical Imaging
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65254" align="alignleft" width="225"]Miriam A. Bredella, MD, MBABernard and Irene Schwartz Professor of Radiology & Vice Chair for Strategy Associate Dean for Translational Science Director, Clinical and Translational Science Institute NYU Grossman School of Medicine NYU Langone Health Translational Research Building 743 New York, NY 10016 Dr. Bredella[/caption] Miriam A. Bredella, MD, MBA Bernard and Irene Schwartz Professor of Radiology & Vice Chair for Strategy Associate Dean for Translational Science Director, Clinical and Translational Science Institute NYU Grossman School of Medicine NYU Langone Health Translational Research Building 743 New York, NY 10016   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We perform >80 million CTs every year in the US, and there is a lot of information on these CTs that is not used and “thrown away.” Opportunistic imaging or opportunistic screening with the help of AI takes advantage of this information and automatically detects and quantifies vascular calcification, bone mineral density, abdominal fat or muscle mass. In our study, we wanted to detect whether calcification of the abdominal aorta, quantified using AI, could predict coronary artery calcification and major cardiovascular events (e.g. myocardial infarction, cardiac revascularization, stroke, or death).

05 Dec

Posted at 13:44h in Author Interviews, Cancer Research, NEJM, NIH, OBGYNE
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65321" align="alignleft" width="92"]Diana W. Bianchi, M.D.Senior Investigator Center for Precision Health Research Director, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development National Institutes of Health Dr. Bianchi[/caption] Diana W. Bianchi, M.D. Senior Investigator Center for Precision Health Research Director, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development National Institutes of Health MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The ability of prenatal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing to incidentally detect maternal cancers has been demonstrated by several retrospective studies from commercial or national laboratories. However, there are no standardized approaches to the identification and medical management of prenatal screening results that might indicate a maternal cancer. We sought to prospectively identify DNA sequencing patterns and other biomarkers that could distinguish which women with nonreportable or unusual cfDNA sequencing results had cancer and to determine the best approach for diagnostic work-up of pregnant people who receive these results.

04 Dec

Posted at 03:40h in Author Interviews, OBGYNE
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: John W. AyersJohn W. Ayers, PhD, MA Altman Clinical Translational Research Institute University of California San Diego, La Jolla MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) are frequently at the center of news and policy debates, yet little data exists about where they operate or what they actually do. To address this gap, we developed ChoiceWatch.org, a tool that systematically collected and analyzed over 470,000 webpages from CPC websites. In our study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, we used ChoiceWatch.org, to answer fundamental questions, such as how many crisis pregnancy centers operate in the U.S., where they are located, and what services they advertise.

30 Nov

Posted at 20:08h in Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Mental Health Research, Pulmonary Disease
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65216" align="alignleft" width="200"]Sean B. Fain, Ph.D.Professor and  Vice Chair for Research Department of Radiology Affiliate Appointments BME and ECE University of Iowa Iowa City, IA Dr. Fain[/caption] Sean B. Fain, Ph.D. Professor and Vice Chair for Research Department of Radiology Affiliate Appointments BME and ECE University of Iowa Iowa City, IA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study uses MRI to investigate connections between lung and brain function. We employ an advanced MRI technique that uses hyperpolarized xenon gas as a contrast agent. This approach allows us to image which parts of the lung are effectively inhaling xenon gas and which parts are not (i.e. ventilation). Additionally, xenon provides insights into lung gas exchange (i.e. oxygen transfer into and out of the blood), as it freely diffuses into alveolar tissue and binds to red blood cells. Using this technology, we hypothesized that the severity of lung injury in individuals with Long COVID would correlate with the degree of cognitive dysfunction and brain imaging.

29 Nov

Posted at 11:21h in addiction-treatment, Alcohol, Author Interviews
For Emergency assistance with mental health or addiction crisis please go to: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline [caption id="attachment_65187" align="aligncenter" width="500"]alcohol-addiction-roots Photo by Isabella Mendes[/caption] Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), remains a pervasive global issue, affecting millions of lives. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that alcohol abuse contributes to over 3 million deaths annually, making it one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide. Understanding the root causes of alcohol addiction is crucial - not merely for academic purposes but for developing effective prevention strategies and treatment approaches. Experts and researchers have proposed multiple theories to explain the onset of addiction, ranging from biological predispositions to sociocultural influences, each offering unique insights into why addiction develops. This article will explore key theoretical models, their underlying frameworks, and their contributions to our understanding of alcohol addiction. Additionally, it will address emerging research, critiques of existing theories, and their practical application in addiction treatment.

28 Nov

Posted at 13:24h in Author Interviews, Protein, Weight Research
  [caption id="attachment_65178" align="aligncenter" width="500"]eggs-protein-eggwhites Photo by Felicity Tai[/caption]   Protein is a fundamental nutrient that plays a vital role in weight loss and appetite regulation. Understanding how protein affects these areas can help optimize dietary strategies for better health outcomes. From influencing hunger hormones to boosting metabolism, protein’s role in the body is multifaceted and powerful.

How Protein Influences Appetite

One of protein’s standout benefits is its ability to enhance feelings of fullness, also known as satiety. When you consume protein-rich foods, your body releases appetite-suppressing hormones such as peptide YY and GLP-1, which signal your brain to reduce hunger. In contrast, diets low in protein may leave individuals feeling hungrier, leading to overeating or increased snacking. This is why many weight loss programs emphasize incorporating high-protein meals and snacks to curb cravings and improve adherence to calorie-controlled plans.

27 Nov

Posted at 18:58h in Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Surgical Research
Anterior Cervical Discectomy Surgery While anterior cervical discectomy surgery has become a widely accepted and frequently performed procedure to relieve spinal cord or nerve root compression, it is not without potential risks and complications. These can range from common surgical risks, such as infection, to more procedure-specific complications like nerve damage, dural tears, and the possibility of recurrent disc herniation. As there is a critical need for increased awareness and understanding of these challenges, it is essential to engage in a thorough exploration of the potential outcomes and their management tactics.

Understanding Anterior Cervical Discectomy

The anterior cervical discectomy is a surgical procedure that warrants comprehension due to its complex nature. This surgical technique involves the removal of an intervertebral disc or a portion of this disc from the neck area, specifically in the anterior cervical spine. It is typically performed to alleviate spinal cord or nerve root pressure, leading to considerable pain relief and functional improvement. The procedure is often paired with a fusion to stabilize the spine. The recovery timeline varies for each individual depending upon factors like age, overall health status, and the severity of the disc problem. However, the immediate postoperative recovery period typically lasts for a few hours to a few days, during which time patients are closely monitored. Subsequent recovery, involving physical therapy and gradual return to normal activities, can stretch from several weeks to a few months. Though the anterior cervical discectomy is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, it is not devoid of risks. Potential complications include infection, nerve damage, difficulties swallowing or speaking, and issues related to the graft or hardware used in fusion. The understanding of these risks is paramount for patients undergoing this procedure.