Monday, 31 October 2016
Knowing doctors’ death rates can’t help you avoid a bad surgeon
You might think publishing surgeons’ death rates helps you pick the best one, but the data isn’t statistically powerful enough to reveal which doctors are bad via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
"Bottle-flipping" is the latest fad, see why schools are banning it - WSJ video
via CasesBlog - Medical and Health Blog Will 'Fix rooms' help drug addicts?
A controversial plan to set up the UK's first so-called "fix rooms" to allow drug addicts to inject safely is likely to get the go-ahead. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
GPs and staff given free access to occupational health
 |
£920K funding will support access for practice staff Related items from OnMedica Tired GPs greatest threat to patient safety Mental health support to be launched for GPs Burnt-out GPs to get new occupational health services from next year BMA calls for maximum number of patients per GP Unrelenting demand |
Effect of Cancer Chemotherapy on Brain
Cancer is challenging to treat. Despite recent advances in earlier diagnostics and targeted therapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy remain the mainstream treatments to complement surgery.
Chemotherapy is an umbrella term referring to multiple aggressive drugs administered to cancer patients. What unites them is the way they work by targeting fast dividing cells in the body. The therapy can reduce the size of tumors and/or patient’s symptoms. In some cases, chemotherapy can even destroy all cancer cells in the body and lead to complete recovery. But despite its relative efficiency, chemotherapy is associated with a large number of undesirable and often severe side effects. Cancer cells are not the only fast dividing cells in the body, and the lack of specificity associated with the use of chemotherapeutic agents means that normal non-cancerous cells can also be targeted and killed by these drugs.
The most affected tissues include bone marrow, hair follicles, the cells of gastrointestinal tract and reproductive cells. But other organs and tissues such as the brain can also become affected by chemotherapy.
It is well know that chemotherapy can cause decline in cognitive functions. There is a term used for that cognitive impairment – chemobrain. The condition is characterized by reduced cognitive abilities, impaired motor functions, loss of memory, and weaker attention. At least some symptoms of cognitive decline are often observed after chemotherapy and can cause severe problems for patients.
The exact mechanisms behind the chemobrain phenomenon are poorly studied. Researchers believe that genetic factors play some role in cognitive decline after chemotherapy. These genetic risk factors may include weaker mechanisms of DNA repair, lower capacity for repairing neurons, and lower activity of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Impairment of cognitive functions can be expected in a short period after chemotherapy, but in most cases it disappears quickly. However, in some cases the impairment persists and can last for a long period of time. In one recent study, a mouse model was used to test the effects of chemotherapy on the cognitive functions in a longer run (three months in this particular case). The results clearly show that animals subjected to chemotherapy agents learned new tasks much slower. Their neurons lived a shorter period of time and differentiated more slowly. This study was designed to test the effects of drugs given to post-menopausal women undergoing chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer. The study also provided evidence that omega-3 fatty acids do not have any positive effect on reducing the symptoms of cognitive impairment after chemotherapy.
Another study that was also conducted using laboratory animals focused on the changes in level of neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Researchers used fast-scan cyclic voltammetry to detect levels of the neuromediators. They compared the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brains of mice which were receiving chemotherapy, and in the brains of the control group of mice that did not receive chemotherapy. The results demonstrated that the release of serotonin and dopamine is impaired after chemotherapy.
Human studies of chemobrain focused mostly on breast cancer sufferers, and the data described below were gathered on this group of patients. There are good reasons to believe that the results will be similar for other types of cancer too.
One study compared the total brain volume in individuals with breast cancer that used chemotherapy and the total brain volume in the control group without cancer. The study was important as it examined the long-term consequences of chemotherapy on human brain volume. Researchers measured the total brain volume 21 years after chemotherapy. Their results show a significant loss of total brain volume and a loss of grey brain matter. The white matter remained mainly unaffected. The scientists think that this loss of total brain volume and grey matter may lead to the development of cognitive impairment.
A similar research study was conducted on another group of patients with breast cancer. The study mainly focused on the changes in the brain’s white and grey matter after chemotherapy. The measurements were done 9 years after the chemotherapy. Multimodal magnetic resonance imaging was used to detect any changes. The findings show that there is a link between chemotherapy and changes in the structure of the human brain. Chemotherapy causes damage to white matter, specifically axonal degeneration and demyelination, but also it is harmful for the grey matter.
Another study was conducted on almost 200 female breast cancer patients that had chemotherapy 20 years ago. Researchers used neuropsychological tests to determine the level of cognition among these patients and in a cancer-free control group. The results showed significantly worse scores in the chemotherapy group compared to the control group. The cancer patients had problems with verbal memory and psychomotor speed and functioning. These problems are the same as those occurring shortly after chemotherapy. This indicates that the patterns of cognitive impairment do not change even after a long period of time post-chemotherapy.
A very recent study compared the integrity of white matter in females with breast cancer before and after chemotherapy. Scientists assessed and compared the cognition scores before and after the treatment. Also, they performed the same tests on a group of females with breast cancer which did not undergo chemotherapy. The findings show significantly weaker test results in the chemotherapy group. In this group, there were notable changes in the white matter in frontal, parietal, and occipital tracts.
Although cancer chemotherapy does work very well for many cancer patients, most certainly it can also cause dangerous and permanent brain damage. Chemotherapy can change how the brain works through changing the level of neurotransmitters. It can even change the structure of the brain, reducing its volume and reducing grey matter in the brain. Eventually this leads to cognition impairment which is strongest shortly after finishing the chemotherapy but can persist for decades after.
References
Ahles, T. A. and Saykin, A. J. (2007) Candidate mechanisms for chemotherapy-induced cognitive changes. Nature Reviews Cancer, 7: 192-201. doi:10.1038/nrc2073
Deprez, S., Amant, F., Smeets, A., Peeters, R., Leemans, A., et al. (2012) Longitudinal Assessment of Chemotherapy-Induced Structural Changes in Cerebral White Matter and Its Correlation With Impaired Cognitive Functioning. JCO, 30(3): 274-281. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2011.36.8571
de Ruiter, M. B., Reneman, L., Boogerd, W., Veltman, D. J., Caan, M., et al. (2012) Late effects of high-dose adjuvant chemotherapy on white and gray matter in breast cancer survivors: Converging results from multimodal magnetic resonance imaging. Hum. Brain Mapp., 33: 2971–2983. doi:10.1002/hbm.21422
Kaplan, S. V., Limbocker, R. A., Gehringer, R. C., Divis, J. L., Osterhaus, G. L., et al. (2016) Impaired Brain Dopamine and Serotonin Release and Uptake in Wistar Rats Following Treatment with Carboplatin. ACS Chem. Neurosci., 7 (6): 689–699. DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.5b00029
Koppelmans, V., Breteler, M. M. B., Boogerd, W., Seynaeve, C., Gundy, C. and Schagen, S. B. ( 2012) Neuropsychological Performance in Survivors of Breast Cancer More Than 20 Years After Adjuvant Chemotherapy. JCO, 30(10): 1080-1086. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2011.37.0189
Koppelmans, V., de Ruiter, M.B., van der Lijn, F. et al. (2012) Global and focal brain volume in long-term breast cancer survivors exposed to adjuvant chemotherapy. Breast Cancer Res Treat, 132: 1099. doi:10.1007/s10549-011-1888-1
Rendeiroa, C., Sheriffa, A., Bhattacharyaa, T. K., Gogolaa, J.V., Baxterd, J.H., et al. (2016) Long-lasting impairments in adult neurogenesis, spatial learning and memory from a standard chemotherapy regimen used to treat breast cancer. Behavioural Brain Research, 315: 10-22. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.07.043
Image via biker_becca / Pixabay.
via Brain Blogger Read More Here..Lab mice are sending us on a wild goose chase
Genetically modified animals are used to model all kinds of human diseases, but the work doesn't seem to be helping us find cures, says Joseph Garner via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Young people’s regular use of e-cigarettes still low
 |
More teenagers trying e-cigarettes but only 2% do so regularly Related items from OnMedica Non-smoking teenagers are using e-cigarettes E-cigarettes beneficial to UK health and help quitting Teens who vape, likely to try the real thing a year on Fifth of young people have tried e-cigarettes Experts reject BMA stance on vaping |
Experts issue warning over Halloween health impact
Read More Here..
Doctors urge industry to respect minimum alcohol unit decision
 |
Minimum unit pricing policy delay has caused ill health, says BMA Related items from OnMedica Alcohol and the nervous system Protect children from alcohol marketing, say doctors Alcohol-related deaths rise 5% in a year Doctors hail alcohol pricing verdict Governments must do more to fight alcohol harm says OECD |
GP politician makes direct plea to Chancellor on NHS funding
 |
MPs warn rationing and cuts to services are on the horizon Related items from OnMedica Government ‘in denial’ about state of NHS funding crisis, say doctors’ leaders NHS frontline victim of ‘boom and bust’ approach to workforce Little in the way of cash boost for general practice, latest funding figures show CCGs must extend access to benefit from extra funding MPs question NHS budget claims |
The venom of one of world's deadliest snakes could relieve pain, say scientists
Dubbed the "killer of killers", the long-glanded blue coral snake could hold the answer to pain relief. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Dentists issue 'Halloween horror' warning
Trick-or-treating can lead to a "Halloween horror" for children's teeth, warn dentists. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Number of young seeking help for anxiety rises
The number of young people in the UK seeking help for anxiety has increased by 35% in just a year, the NSPCC says. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
'You question yourself as a man' - men and infertility
James D'Souza and Aaron Deem discuss about the emotional impact of infertility. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Saturday, 29 October 2016
Clocks go back: Top sleep tips for parents
Baby sleep specialist Abi Thompson gives her top five tips to stretch out the mornings when the clocks go back. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Friday, 28 October 2016
Cystic fibrosis therapy proven to be 'life changing'
Clara has cystic fibrosis and has been on the drug Orkambi for three years. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
A hormone injection for men has been shown to be 96% effective as contraception.
A hormone injection for men has been shown to be a safe and effective method of contraception, but some users in trials reported side effects. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
How lack of oxygen makes bacteria cause acne and how to stop it
When deprived of oxygen, harmless bacteria on the skin can turn nasty, triggering inflammation and pimples – a discovery that makes a new treatment look likely via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Our Editors' Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes
When you work at EatingWell, people expect pretty big things from you on Thanksgiving—whether you're hosting or contributing. And even though the pressure's on, we all know we can impress our friends and family with our favorite EatingWell recipes. I asked the other editors what their go-tos are and now I definitely have some new recipes to try this year. Here's hoping some of these recipes claim a spot on your table too.
via EatingWell Blogs - All Blog Posts More READ
Nurses to gain formal recognition for enhanced skills
 |
‘Credentialing’ designed to boost career prospects and public confidence Related items from OnMedica Over 90% of nurses and midwives have completed revalidation Guidance launched to protect nurses who work alone Plans to scrap nurse bursaries will lead to staff shortages Nurses 'unable to afford basic necessities' NHS moves to reassure worried EU nurses |
Lack of funds hampering NHS progress on Five Year Forward View goals
 |
Developing viable alternatives to hospital care, needs cash, says health think tank Related items from OnMedica NHS England reveals leaders for change Greater Manchester presses ahead with devolved health and care services Fewer staff in NHS needed to get finances balanced Five-year plan for general practice unveiled Government ‘in denial’ about state of NHS funding crisis, say doctors’ leaders |
New mental health ratings and CCG performance data go public
 |
Intended to boost service improvement and accountability Related items from OnMedica Trusts double physical health checks in mentally ill Over 200 suicides occur in patients under crisis team care Promises to boost mental health funding stall Urgent need for better physical health in those with mental illness Only a quarter have access to needed mental health services |
Easier schedule for HPV vaccine: 2 doses instead of previously recommended 3
From Mayo Clinic: To protect against cervical cancer and other cancers caused by HPV infection, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is now recommending that 11- and 12-year-olds receive two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart. This is a change from the previously recommended three-dose series.
The CDC says adolescents ages 13–14 also can receive the HPV vaccine on the new two-dose schedule. However, those who start the series later will continue to need three doses.
Self-administered HPV Test is one of the Top 10 Medical Innovations 2017, selected by the Cleveland Clinic:
via CasesBlog - Medical and Health Blog More READ
The CDC says adolescents ages 13–14 also can receive the HPV vaccine on the new two-dose schedule. However, those who start the series later will continue to need three doses.
Self-administered HPV Test is one of the Top 10 Medical Innovations 2017, selected by the Cleveland Clinic:
via CasesBlog - Medical and Health Blog More READ
Effect of Obesity on Human Brain
The number of overweight and obese people (those with BMI above 25) around the world is approaching the two billion mark. This is more than 20% of estimated 7.4 billion people currently populating the planet. The connection between obesity and various chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some types of cancer is well established. Not much, however, is known about how the excess body weight influences the structure and function of brain.
Does IQ level determines body weight?
Statistically significant correlation between excess body weight and lower IQ level has been demonstrated in multiple studies. What was not clear for very long time is the direction of causality. Does the excess body weight cause the decline in intellectual capabilities? Or maybe people with lower IQ level are more prone to become overweight?
Although some earlier studies concluded that lower IQ level might be caused by obesity, the most recent prospectively longitudinal studies show that this is not correct. These studies demonstrate that one of the risk factors for obesity is lower IQ level.
A meta-analysis published in 2010 summarized 26 different studies on this topic. The main conclusion of this analysis was that there is a strong link between lower IQ level in childhood and the development of obesity in adulthood.
In one Swedish study involving 5286 males the IQ level was tested at the age of 18 and again at the age of 40. At each testing, the BMI of participants was also evaluated. The results clearly show that individuals with lower IQ level have higher BMI.
Another study performed in New Zealand included 913 participants. Their IQ levels were measured at the ages of 3, 7, 9, 11 and finally at the age of 38. This study also concluded that lower IQ level in childhood leads to obesity. People with lower IQ level at the age of 38 were more obese than people with higher IQ level.
Over 3000 people were participating in a study conducted in the Great Britain. The subjects were followed for more than 50 years. Their IQ levels were measured at the age of 7, 11 and 16. At the age of 51, their BMI was measured. Their results show without any doubt that IQ level at the age of 7 can predict higher BMI at the age of 51. Also, the results show that BMI grows faster after the age of 16 among people with lower IQ level.
Another study conducted in the Great Britain involved 17,414 individuals. The IQ level was assessed at the age of 11. BMI was evaluated at the ages of 16, 23, 33 and 42. The results of this study also confirm that lower childhood IQ level leads to obesity in adulthood.
Obesity leads to faster aging of brain
Our brain changes during the natural aging process. As we become older, the brain loses white matter and shrinks. But the rate of aging process is not the same for every person. Individual factors may lead to faster or slower age-related brain changes. One of these factors that affects our brain structure is excess body weight. Obesity alters the normal aging process by speeding it up.
Research study conducted at the University of Cambridge concluded that obese people have less white matter in their brain compared to normal weight individuals. The brain structure of 473 individuals was investigated in this study. The data showed that the brain of obese people appears to be up to ten years anatomically older in comparison with the normal weight counterparts.
Another study conducted on 733 middle aged individuals showed that obesity is strongly linked with the loss of brain mass. Scientists measured body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of participants and used brain MRI to find and identify the signs of brain degeneration. The results demonstrated that brain degeneration is more extensive in people with higher BMI, WC, WHR than in normal weight persons. The scientists hypothesize that this loss of brain tissue may lead to dementia, although there are no hard proofs at present.
Obesity changes the way we feel
Apart from structural changes, obesity can also change the way our brain works. Dopamine is one of the neurotransmitters which is involved in reward circuits and motivation. One study concluded that concentration of available dopamine receptors in the brain is in correlates with BMI. Individuals with higher BMI have a lower concentration of available dopamine receptors that may lead to a lack of pleasure after eating normal size portions and the urge to eat more to feel satisfied.
This view was confirmed by another study which analyzed the response of obese people to milkshakes during a period of time. Their response was analyzed using functional MRI. The measurements were repeated half a year later and showed that brain response was a lot weaker in people who gained excess body weight between two measurements. The researchers concluded that obese individuals feel less satisfaction when eating in comparison to lean individuals, due to a lower concentration of dopamine receptors in the brain.
The research on the effects of obesity on brain functions are still in infancy but the findings described above are already alarming enough. I think it is important to raise the public awareness about this issue. The negative impact of obesity on general health is well publicized, but hardly anyone ever mentions how bad the excess body weight can be for our cognitive functions.
References
Chandola, T., Deary, I.J., Blane, D., and Batty, G.D. (2006) Childhood IQ in relation to obesity and weight gain in adult life: the National Child Development (1958) Study. International Journal of Obesity, 30: 1422–1432. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0803279
Debette, S., Beiser, A., Hoffmann, U., DeCarli, C., O’Donnell, C. J., Massaro, J. M., Au, R., Himali, J. J., Wolf, P. A., Fox, C. S. and Seshadri, S. (2010) Visceral fat is associated with lower brain volume in healthy middle-aged adults. Ann Neurol., 68: 136–144. doi:10.1002/ana.22062
Kanazawa, S. (2014) Intelligence and obesity: which way does the causal direction go?. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes, 21:339–344. DOI:10.1097/MED.0000000000000091
Ronan, L., Alexander-Bloch, A.F., Wagstyl, K.,Farooqi, S., Brayne, C., et al. (2016) Obesity associated with increased brain age from midlife. Neurobiology of Aging, 47: 63-70. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2016.07.010
Stice, E., Yokum, S., Blum, K., and Bohon, C. ( 2010) Weight Gain Is Associated with Reduced Striatal Response to Palatable Food. The Journal of Neuroscience, 30(39): 13105-13109. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2105-10.2010
Wang, G.J., Volkow, N.D., Logan, J., Pappas, N.R., Wong, C.T., Zhu, W., Netusll, N., Fowler, J.S. (2001) Brain dopamine and obesity. Lancet, 357: 354-357. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(00)03643-6
Yu, Z. B., Han, S. P., Cao, X. G. and Guo, X. R. (2010) Intelligence in relation to obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews, 11: 656–670. doi:10.1111/j.1467-789X.2009.00656.x
Image via cocoparisienne / Pixabay.
via Brain Blogger Read More Here..4% drop in applications to study medicine, latest figures reveal
 |
Reflects ongoing trend; BMA blames demoralised NHS, junior doctors’ dispute, and Brexit Related items from OnMedica Brexit could allow tougher tests for EU doctors Recruitment drive begins to attract GPs Junior doctors lose legal challenge against health secretary over contract BMA: Government puts politics before patients GMC warns of 'state of unease' amongst doctors |
Government set to miss target for recouping costs of overseas visitor care
 |
Projected annual £500m by 2017-18 likely to fall short by £150m Related items from OnMedica It ‘beggars belief’ that seven-day NHS plans are uncosted, say MPs Missed A&E targets reflect cuts in social care and NHS funding Doctors say Budget must deliver more social care cash NHS funding system ‘not fit for purpose’ Fewer staff in NHS needed to get finances balanced |
Radiotherapy gets the investment it needs
 |
£130m fund over the next two years for new radiotherapy machines Related items from OnMedica Radiotherapy during breast cancer surgery cuts cost and time Radiotherapy equipment to be upgraded, NHS chief pledges Access to advanced brain treatments set to double More investment needed in radiotherapy and surgery CCGs struggling to meet cancer targets |
On The Pulse - October 2016
 |
Anti-inflammatory drugs to treat depression |
Birth control: Male contraceptive injection 'shows promise'
A hormone injection has been shown to be a safe and effective method of contraception - for men. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
NI woman charged over abortion pills
A woman was reported to police and charged in connection with using abortion pills after she sought medical help, BBC NI learns. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Thursday, 27 October 2016
Male contraceptive pill works – but side effects halt trial
The injection was effective in nearly 96 per cent of couples, but researchers have voiced concerns over side effects including depression, muscle pain, acne and increased libido via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
New Guidelines Urge Diabetics to Move More
They should do light physical activity every 30 minutes, not every 90 minutes
Source: HealthDay via Exercise and Physical Fitness New Links: MedlinePlus RSS Feed Read More Here..
Vet has animal tuberculosis scare
Vet describes fears after being infected with animal tuberculosis via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Over 1 million treated with highly effective hepatitis C medicines
The new medicines have a cure rate of over 95%, fewer side effects than previously available therapies, and can completely cure the disease within three months. But at an initial estimated price of some US$85 000 they were unaffordable even in high-income countries. via WHO news Read More Here..
GMC warns of 'state of unease' amongst doctors
 |
Its annual report highlights 'dangerous levels of alienation' felt by trainees Related items from OnMedica 'Terry and Jerry' Nurses 'unable to afford basic necessities' Staff burnout could derail the NHS’s drive for efficiency NHS pressures could cause staff ‘burnout’ Junior doctors lose legal challenge against health secretary over contract |
'Explain all options to patients,' say surgeons
 |
Royal College warns of rise in litigation unless consent process changes Related items from OnMedica Clinical negligence claims against hospitals almost double in a year Royal College launches cosmetic surgery advice New guidance spells out doctors’ duty of candour to admit mistakes New standards for cosmetic surgery issued GMC urges patients considering cosmetic surgery to question doctors |
Nurses 'unable to afford basic necessities'
 |
Survey reveals many are considering quitting due to dire financial pressures Related items from OnMedica NHS hospitals face shortfall of 15,000 nurses, says workforce analysis Plans to scrap student nurse bursary 'reckless' Government urged to save jobs of over 33,000 EU nurses Will removing bursaries for student nurses actually lead to more nursing staff? District nursing care at ‘breaking point’ |
Scotland 'struggling' as targets are missed
 |
Report calls for urgent action to change the way services are delivered Related items from OnMedica Cost of agency nurses soars Nurses warn of growing vacancy rate in Scotland as NHS headcount set to rise Primary care cash boost announced Missed A&E targets reflect cuts in social care and NHS funding A&E targets have not been met for more than a year |
Test all toddlers for inherited high cholesterol, study suggests
 |
Routine screening could prevent around 600 heart attacks per year Related items from OnMedica New alternative to statins gets regulatory green light High cholesterol linked to increased risk of tendon problems ‘Silent’ heart attacks may affect one in 16 people Researchers develop single blood test for all known inherited heart conditions |
US liver donor marries woman whose life he saved
A US man who donated half of his liver to a complete stranger reveals how they fell in love and wed. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Smart camera system checks patients’ vital signs from afar
Software monitors heart rate, breathing and blood oxygen without a single sensor touching the body – useful for police cells as well as hospital wards via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Wednesday, 26 October 2016
3 Ways Instagram is Changing the Way We Eat
If your Instagram feed is anything like mine then it's pretty saturated with food photos (with some cute babies, wedding pics and celebs thrown in). Those yummy snaps of kale salads, overflowing smoothie bowls or gooey chocolate brownies are more than just eye candy—they may actually change your diet choices, inspiring you to eat better (or worse). Now, new research is coming out showing some pretty good reasons to up to your Instagram game.
via EatingWell Blogs - All Blog Posts More READ
How to save ourselves from the invisible gas choking us to death
Cities are battling to meet legal standards for air pollution, but even that isn't enough to make air safe, says Michael Le Page via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Paralysed people inhabit distant robot bodies with thought alone
Using a head-up display and a cap that reads brain activity, for the first time three people with spinal injury have controlled a robot and seen what it sees via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Superfast therapy cracks multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
A new drug regime cures 82 per cent of people with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis – and in less than half the time taken by current treatments via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
HIV jumped to the US in 1970 – 10 years before it was spotted
The HIV virus was in the US in the 1970s before it triggered the nation's AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, a new genetic study has found via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
HIV jumped to the US in 1970 – 10 years before it was spotted
The HIV virus was in the US in the 1970s before it triggered the nation's AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, a new genetic study has found via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
HIV Patient Zero cleared by science
One of the most demonised patients in history - Gaetan Dugas - has been convincingly cleared of reports he spread HIV to the US, say scientists. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
‘Autism therapy helped my child speak’ – a mum hails new method
Louisa Harrison explains how a parent-led intervention – the first to have lasting benefits for children with autism – helped her communicate with her son via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Be careful when prescribing benzodiazepines, doctors warned
 |
Advice follows recent media coverage on addictive potential of these drugs Related items from OnMedica Preterm birth risk higher after PTSD and major depression BMA calls for helpline for prescription drug addicts Doctors debate long-term use of psychiatric drugs Anxiety/insomnia pills not linked to dementia |
Mosquito army released in Zika fight in Brazil & Colombia
Scientists are planning to release millions of modified mosquitoes in urban areas of Brazil and Colombia, in an effort to tackle Zika, dengue and chikungunya viruses. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
'Super-parenting' improves children's autism
Training mums and dads as "super parents" can dramatically improve a child's autism, a study shows. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Doctors’ leaders slam progress report on cancer strategy for England
 |
Not enough skilled staff/investment to deliver on its ambitions, says Royal College of Radiologists Related items from OnMedica Taskforce report CCGs struggling to meet cancer targets Half a million people a year will be diagnosed with cancer by 2035 Radiotherapy equipment to be upgraded, NHS chief pledges NHS England promises world-class cancer services |
Radiotherapy equipment to be upgraded, NHS chief pledges
 |
Government to start modernisation across England with £130m fund over two years Related items from OnMedica More investment needed in radiotherapy and surgery Beam therapy hope for childhood cancer treatment Access to advanced brain treatments set to double CCGs struggling to meet cancer targets Radiotherapy during breast cancer surgery cuts cost and time |
Patients admitted at weekends more likely to die, experimental data show
| NHS Digital comes up with key criteria and calculations to kick-start discussions on 7-day service variations Related items from OnMedica It ‘beggars belief’ that seven-day NHS plans are uncosted, say MPs Research exposes flaws in ‘weekend effect’ argument New study disputes government claims of ‘weekend effect’ on hospital mortality NHS sets out seven-day service targets Trend to dissuade patients from attending A&E is flawed |
Parent ‘training’ can improve severity of child’s autism symptoms
 |
Intervention given to 2-4 year olds also seems to have lasting effects Related items from OnMedica Some children ‘outgrow’ earlier diagnosed autism NICE publishes standards to improve autism care Maternal gestational diabetes increases risk of autism Polycystic ovarian syndrome and autism link People with autism die prematurely |
Autism intervention is first to show benefits over the long term
A programme that tweaks parents' communication skills is the first to show consistent improvements in children with severe autism via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Tuesday, 25 October 2016
Cholera update in Yemen
News update: New cases of cholera and cholera-related deaths, 23 October 2016 via WHO news Read More Here..
What are you worth? How we calculate the value of a life
Each life is equally valuable. Until it's not. From the cost of saving your life to your worth once you’re gone, there's a price on all our heads via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Scholarship for College Students Living with a Neurological Disorder
Bella Soul is a charity that empowers college students faced with chronic illness, physical disabilities, and disease through scholarships and emotional support. I have partnered with them to serve on and advise their scholarship committee on a voluntary basis. Their First Annual Luke G. Neurological Scholarship will award $500 to $1,000 to full-time students enrolled in college and living with a neurological disorder.
The application process is simple and starts with emailing Bella Soul at livebellasoul@gmail.com with the following three items:
1) Demographics:
– Name
– Date of Birth
– University/College
– Year/Grade
– GPA
– Neurological Disease/Disorder
2) Proof of Enrollment:
– Demonstrates full-time, college enrollment.
– Does not need to be a transcript.
3) Essay:
– Three-pages, double spaced about the triumphs and struggles of living with a neurological disease/disorder.
– Give examples of how your disease/disorder has impacted your education, your social life, and how you have learned from these challenges.
– Include what advice you would tell someone who is struggling with the same neurological disorder.
The other members of the scholarship committee and I will review the applicants the first week of January. The deadline for applying is by December 31st (end of day). Looking forward to reading your stories and funding your future!
Image via thelester / Pixabay.
via Brain Blogger Read More Here..Urgent need for better physical health in those with mental illness
 |
Professions unite to seek better care for mental health patients Related items from OnMedica Fivefold increased risk of emergency admission for those with mental ill health Trusts double physical health checks in mentally ill Promises to boost mental health funding stall General practice gets funding for infrastructure, mental health services and indemnity Only a quarter have access to needed mental health services |
Women drinking almost as much alcohol as men
 |
Young adults are closing the sex gap on harmful drinking Related items from OnMedica Alcohol and the nervous system Alcohol problems in middle-aged women Alcohol-related hospitals admissions double in a decade Alcohol-related deaths rise 5% in a year Regular drinking falls amongst young adults |
Underfunded home care raising pressure on NHS
 |
Experts calculate UK has £513m deficit for 2016-17 Related items from OnMedica Missed A&E targets reflect cuts in social care and NHS funding Extra council tax levy for social care has failed to plug huge funding shortfall Leaders call for major rethink on NHS Wider primary care teams are secret to future general practice Budget cuts leave more elderly without help |
Blood pressure link to pollution long-term exposure
 |
Air and noise pollution may cause hypertension, claims study Related items from OnMedica Air pollution emerges as a leading factor for stroke Air pollution may shorten lung cancer patient survival Climate change poses major threat to health Act now to halt air pollution’s death toll, MPs urge government 40,000 deaths annually due to air pollution |
GP weight loss intervention is effective
 |
Patients lost more weight after GP referrals for help Related items from OnMedica Managing obesity in primary care - Part 2 Managing obesity in primary care - Part 1 Doctors urged to prescribe more exercise Obesity in England continues to rise Behaviour change during a consultation |
'Terry and Jerry'
Read More Here..
How I got addicted to painkillers
As the UK government calls for urgent action to help people hooked on prescription drugs, Cathryn Kemp explains what it is like to find yourself addicted to painkillers via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Baby Lynlee 'born twice' after life-saving surgery
A baby girl is "born" twice after she is taken out of her mother's womb for 20 minutes for life-saving surgery. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Monday, 24 October 2016
4 Healthy Reasons to Eat Avocados
Avocados are not only delicious, they're super satisfying and help keep your body healthy too. Just in case you need even more encouragement to eat your avocados (c'mon guacamole isn't reason enough?) here are 4 healthy reasons avocados are so good for you.
Get It: Healthy Avocado Recipes We Love
via EatingWell Blogs - All Blog Posts More READ
'Ignoring diabetes left me with one leg'
Type 2 diabetes is responsible for most cases of kidney failure and lower limb amputation, other than accidents. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
The shoe shop with a dark diabetes message
How did customers react when they uncovered the dark diabetes message hidden in a shoe shop? via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Teen hackers study considers link to addiction
A study for Europol suggests efforts to stop young people hacking could learn from anti-addiction efforts. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Can Our Immune System Drive Social Behavior?
The immune system is our main defense mechanism against disease. Dysfunctions in the immune system are therefore associated with a myriad of complications, including several neurological and mental disorders.
Yet, for a long time the brain and the immune system were considered to be isolated from each other – it was believed that the brain was not supplied by the lymphatic system (which carries white blood cells and other immune cells through a network of vessels and tissues) because no evidence of lymphatic supply to the brain had ever been found.
But recently, a research team from the University of Virginia School of Medicine was able to find lymphatic vessels in the meninges that cover the brain. This was a huge discovery that shattered the long-standing belief that the brain was “immune privileged,” lacking a direct connection to the immune system.
After discovering the direct link between the brain and the lymphatic system, the same group has demonstrated that immune cells can influence learning behavior, exerting their effects apparently from the meninges, the membranes that cover the central nervous system. Now, the same group has shown that the immune system has another surprising effect on the brain – it can directly affect, and even control social behavior, such as the desire to interact with others.
Using mice with impaired immunity, the authors showed that partial elimination of immune cells from the meninges was sufficient to induce deficits in social behavior. These social deficits were reversed when the mice were repopulated with immune cells. These immune impaired mice also exhibited hyper-connectivity in specific brain regions associated with social behavior. Again, repopulating mice with immune cells reversed the abnormal hyper-connectivity observed. Other functionally connected regions not directly implicated in social function were not affected by a deficiency in adaptive immunity.
Despite their proximity to the brain, immune cells in the meninges don’t enter the brain. Their effects therefore have to be exerted by releasing molecules that can cross into the brain. The authors were able to identify which molecule acts as a messenger between the immune system and the brain in regulating social behavior.
The molecule is called interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) and it can be produced by a substantial number of meningeal immune cells. Blocking the production of this molecule caused similar social deficits and abnormal hyper-connectivity in the same brain regions as in immune impaired mice. Restoring the levels of the molecule restored the brain activity and behavioral patterns, through the action of IFN-gamma in GABAergic inhibitory neurons. Importantly, the authors also demonstrated that rodents living in a social context (group-housing) had natural increases in the production of IFN-gamma, whereas rodents in social isolation had a marked loss of IFN-gamma. Zebrafish and flies showed a similar pattern.
These striking results thereby show how that a molecule produced by the immune system can have a determining influence on social behavior. But such as the immune system can drive sociability, it is possible that immune dysfunctions may contribute to an inability to have normal social interactions and play a role in neurological and mental disorders characterized by social impairments, such as autism spectrum disorder, frontotemporal dementia, and schizophrenia, for example.
Social behavior is crucial for the survival of a species through foraging, protection, breeding, and even, in higher-order species, mental health. On the other hand, social interaction also brought about an increased exposure to different pathogens; as a consequence, our immune system had to develop new ways to protect us from the diseases to which social interaction exposed us. And social behavior is obviously beneficial to pathogens, since it allows them to spread.The authors of the study therefore hypothesized that the relationship between humans and pathogens may have driven the development of our social behavior. There may have been a co-evolutionary pressure to increase an anti-pathogen response as sociability increased, and it is possible that IFN-gamma may have acted as an evolutionary mechanism to simultaneously enhance social behavior while also enhancing our anti-pathogen responses.
The implications and the questions that arise from these findings are tremendous. Is it possible that our immune system modulates our everyday behaviors or even our personality? Can new pathogens influence human behavior? Can we target the immune system while treating neurological or psychiatric disorders? New research avenues are wide open.
References
Derecki NC, et al (2010). Regulation of learning and memory by meningeal immunity: a key role for IL-4. J Exp Med, 207(5):1067-80. doi: 10.1084/jem.20091419
Filiano AJ, et al (2016). Unexpected role of interferon-? in regulating neuronal connectivity and social behaviour. Nature, 535(7612):425-9. doi: 10.1038/nature18626
Kennedy DP, Adolphs R (2012). The social brain in psychiatric and neurological disorders. Trends Cogn. Sci. 16, 559–572. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2012.09.006
Kipnis J (2016). Multifaceted interactions between adaptive immunity and the central nervous system. Science, 353(6301):766-71. doi: 10.1126/science.aag2638
Louveau A, et al (2015). Structural and functional features of central nervous system lymphatic vessels. Nature, 523(7560):337-41. doi: 10.1038/nature14432
Image via allinonemovie / Pixabay.
via Brain Blogger Read More Here..Baby Lynlee 'born twice' after life-saving tumour surgery
A baby girl is "born" twice in Texas after surgeons cut open her mother's womb to remove a tumour that threatened to stop her heart. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
How I got addicted to painkillers
As the UK government calls for urgent action to help people hooked on prescription drugs, Cathryn Kemp explains what it is like to find yourself addicted to painkillers via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
Addiction to prescription drugs is UK ‘public health disaster’
Doctors and politicians are calling for urgent action to help people who get hooked on prescription painkillers, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines via New Scientist - Health Read More Here..
'Robbed' of maternity leave with my 26-week-old son
Lauren Dunn, who gave birth to her son Henry early at 26 weeks, describes feeling "robbed" of her time at home with him. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Man who cut off own toes told he 'saved the foot'
Paul Dibbins cut off two toes when they went gangrenous and a hospital operation was cancelled. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
A father's suffering
When Jack Davis and his partner Leanne lost their two baby sons through miscarriage, he wanted people to recognise his suffering as well as the mother's. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Doctors draw up list of 40 'pointless treatments'
 |
They say more must be done to educate patients and reduce 'over-medicalisation' Related items from OnMedica Sentinel node biopsy first to check spread of oral cancer Monthly testing with isotretinoin might be unnecessary Non-beneficial procedures given to patients at the end of their life More than two-thirds of doctors forced to ration care Doctors campaign against ‘too much medicine’ |
Surge in reports of girls and young women self-harming
 |
Admission figures reveal cases of cutting have quadrupled in a decade Related items from OnMedica Childhood bullying may be worse for teen mental health than abuse Goth teens at higher risk of depression and self-harm Self-harm and injury less likely with lithium than other drugs Fifth of all children referred to specialist mental health services rejected for treatment |
Doctors hail alcohol pricing verdict
 |
Judges say minimum unit pricing of alcohol can be introduced in Scotland Related items from OnMedica Wales to back minimum unit price on alcohol Most Brits suffer harm from others’ drinking Alcohol-related deaths rise 5% in a year Minimum price for alcohol delayed by European Court Minimum alcohol price battle goes back to court |
BMA calls for helpline for prescription drug addicts
 |
National telephone helpline part of plan to deal with addiction Related items from OnMedica Anxiety/insomnia pills not linked to dementia Opioids are main cause of drug death and illness globally Slower tapering of prescription opioids is most successful Specialist addiction scheme ‘no better’ than primary care Failing national drugs policy behind rising death toll, say experts |
Heading footballs 'affects memory’
 |
Study shows repeated heading has a temporary effect on brain function Related items from OnMedica Screening for risk of sudden cardiac death is cost effective Too much sport as bad as too little for teens Scrutinise youth rugby risks, demands neurosurgeon Injury data for school rugby remains insufficient |
Blighted lives
The true cost of the diabetes epidemic facing the UK is lives blighted by years of disability. via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Saturday, 22 October 2016
The poem sending Shivers down spines
The Multiple Sclerosis poem sending Shivers down spines via BBC News - Health Read More Here..
Artificial Light and Circadian Rhythm – Are We Messing It Up?
The day-night cycle is one of the most defining patterns of life as we know it. We live in a cyclic environment and circadian rhythms are an essential element in the biology of living organisms.
Many physiological processes are synchronized with the day-night cycle, being modulated by environmental timing cues such as sunlight. Our biological clock must detect the cyclic variations in light in order to manage our physiological functions accordingly. To do so, light changes are sensed by specialized cells in the retina called retinal ganglion cells; these retinal photoreceptors receive light and send information to the brain, more specifically to a structure located in the hypothalamus called suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). SCN neurons then convey temporal information to other tissues, producing synchronized circadian rhythms in many of our bodily processes.
Evolution made us adapt to our cyclic environment and these external cycles have become essential to the maintenance of a healthy state. But modern societies have tainted these cycles. The widespread use of artificial lighting, for example, has heavily disrupted the natural daily light-dark cycle in a way that is far from innocuous. Continuous exposure to light is regarded as a risk factor for frailty, with a number of studies supporting the idea that this disruption in our circadian rhythms can have a significant impact on health.
This is a major issue since it is estimated that about 75% of the world’s population may be exposed to light during the night. Also, shift work is considerably common (around 20% of workers in Europe and 29% in the US), and epidemiological studies have shown that shift workers have an increased occurrence of breast cancer, metabolic syndrome, obesity, bone dysfunctions, cardiovascular disease, stroke and sleep impairments.
But although these studies indicate a correlation between artificial light exposure and health issues, a causal relationship is hard to determine in human studies. Animal research has helped us understand the real impact of circadian rhythm disruption and has revealed a number of mechanisms through which it can influence health. However, most studies used relatively brief periods of light exposure disruption which largely fail to reproduce the patterns of light exposure in some human contexts, such as shift work, or intensive care settings and nursing homes, for example.
A recent study has set about filling this gap by investigating the relationship between a long-term disruption of circadian rhythms and disease. In this work, mice were exposed to continuous light for 24 weeks and several health parameters were measured: rhythmicity in the central clock (the SCN), skeletal muscle function, bone microstructure, and immune system function were assessed at various time points during and following the 24 weeks of continuous light.
The findings showed that a disrupted circadian rhythm induces detrimental effects on several biological processes. Neuronal recordings revealed that the long-term exposure to continuous light caused a marked reduction in rhythmicity in the circadian pacemaker in the brain, the SCN. Continuous light also reduced muscle function, caused bone changes, and induced a transient pro-inflammatory state.
In fact, many of these changes were consistent with a state of accelerated aging, namely the decline in muscle strength, physical endurance and motor coordination which are often observed in elderly adults.
Relevant changes in bone structure were also observed. Bones are formed by two types of bone tissue: trabecular (or spongy) bone and cortical (or compact) bone. As one ages, spongy bone becomes less dense, whereas compact bone tends to thicken. The continuous exposure to light in mice induced a progressive loss of trabecular bone similar to that observed in early age-related osteoporosis, and an increased thickness of cortical bone consistent with an accelerated effect of aging. Up to 21% of elderly adults have osteoporosis and some of these changes have actually been reported in shift workers: studies have shown that female shift workers have an increased risk of bone fractures and decreased bone mineral density.
Continuous exposure to light also induces a heightened pro-inflammatory state. Upon an immune stimulus, mice exposed to continuous light showed an increased production of pro-inflammatory molecules and a decreased secretion of anti-inflammatory compounds, even though this effect was transient. This intensified pro-inflammatory state is also observed during aging. Furthermore, human studies have also shown that shift workers have an increased risk of cancer and metabolic syndrome associated with immune system dysfunction, which is also known to aggravate age-related pathologies.
The reduction in rhythmicity in the SCN of mice continuously exposed to light also matches rhythm changes that occur in aged individuals. In fact, recent research suggests that impairments in the circadian clock within the SCN may be a defining factor in aging, being likely that an aged circadian system may actually contribute to the age-related decline in health.
This study solidified the notion that long-term exposure to continuous light can have a significant impact on health. Interestingly, most of the health parameters measured quickly returned to normal after restoring a regular light-dark cycle. Nevertheless, it becomes clear that exposure to artificial light is not at all harmless. By messing with our circadian rhythms through constant exposure to light, we may be accelerating our aging process and be actively weakening our health and resistance to disease.
References
Lucassen EA, et al (2016). Environmental 24-hr Cycles Are Essential for Health. Curr Biol, 26(14):1843-53. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.05.038
Michaud M, et al (2013). Proinflammatory cytokines, aging, and age-related diseases. J Am Med Dir Assoc, 14(12):877-82. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2013.05.009
Nakamura TJ, et al (2016). The suprachiasmatic nucleus: age-related decline in biological rhythms. J Physiol Sci, 66(5):367-74. doi: 10.1007/s12576-016-0439-2
Quevedo I, Zuniga AM (2010). Low bone mineral density in rotating-shift workers. J Clin Densitom, 13(4):467-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jocd.2010.07.004
Stevens RG, et al (2014). Breast cancer and circadian disruption from electric lighting in the modern world. CA Cancer J Clin, 64(3):207-18. doi: 10.3322/caac.21218
Wang XS, et al (2011). Shift work and chronic disease: the epidemiological evidence. Occup Med (Lond), 61(2):78-89. doi: 10.1093/occmed/kqr001
via Brain Blogger Read More Here..
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)