Living well, and dying well, with schizophrenia

Introduction Every day brings us closer to the end of our lives, and how we approach the end of life is something of critical importance. For those with chronic mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, this phase of life can be especially difficult and complex. Consequently, there is a pressing need for better care and support for those living with these conditions. In this regard, a nursing researcher at the University of Alberta is attempting to make a difference and has proposed changes to the way those with conditions like schizophrenia are cared for at the end of life. Background Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness that affects an estimated 21 million people worldwide, including approximately 300,000 Canadians. For those with chronic mental health conditions like schizophrenia, end-of-life care and support can be especially complicated. This is due to the unique challenges posed by such conditions, as well as the need for specialized care that is often lacking. There is a need for improved care and support for those with mental health conditions as they approach the end of their lives. The University of Alberta Nursing Researcher To address these challenges, nursing researcher Gillian Creese of the University of Alberta is trying to change the way people with schizophrenia and other chronic mental health conditions in Canada are cared for at the end of their lives. She aims to improve care for those with conditions like schizophrenia by creating a framework for better understanding of the needs of those living with these conditions. The Research Gillian is conducting a study on the experiences of those with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions as they approach end of life. She is looking to understand the challenges they face and how we can improve care and support for them as they move towards their final days. Gillian has been collecting data from those with conditions like schizophrenia, as well as from their families and caregivers, to gain insight on their end-of-life experiences. The Findings Gillian’s research has revealed that those living with mental health conditions like schizophrenia often don’t receive the same quality of care and support as those without chronic mental health issues. This is due to a lack of specialized knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with conditions like schizophrenia. In addition, Gillian’s research has highlighted the need for better communication between healthcare providers and those living with mental health conditions, as well as their families and caregivers. The Proposed Solution Gillian has proposed a framework that seeks to bridge the current gaps in end-of-life care for those with mental health conditions like schizophrenia. It includes measures such as increased specialized training for healthcare providers, improved communication between those with the condition and their caregivers, and improved access to specialized services for those with mental health conditions. She also proposes that further studies be conducted to better understand the needs of those living with mental health conditions. Conclusion The end of life can be a difficult time for those with chronic mental health conditions like schizophrenia. To improve care and support for those living with these conditions, Gillian Creese of the University of Alberta is conducting research to better understand the needs of these individuals and their families. Her proposed framework provides a potential solution to the current gaps in end-of-life care for those with mental health conditions and highlights the importance of better communication and specialized training. With further research and the implementation of solutions based on this framework, we can ensure those with mental health conditions receive the care and support they need at the end of their lives.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/living-well-and-dying-well-with-schizophrenia

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Human body can predict mealtimes, shows study

Introduction We all have a special knack for predicting when our regular meals will be served - but did you know this ability is built into our bodies? According to a new study conducted by the University of Surrey, the human body has a built-in ability to predict the timing of meals. Not only that, but the research team found that daily blood glucose rhythms may be driven not only by meal timing, but by meal size as well. In this article, we will take a closer look at the study’s findings and discuss how they may be used to better understand the human body’s ability to predict regular meal timing. The Study and Its Findings The study, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Surrey led by Professor Paul Hardingham. The team used a mechanistic model of the human body to test the hypothesis that meal timing and meal size can affect people’s daily blood glucose rhythms. The study included 16 adult participants who were given either three or four meals a day. The meals were all the same size and had an equal macronutrient composition. The study found that the participants’ glucose rhythms were affected by both meal timing and meal size. When the participants ate three meals per day, the peak plasma glucose concentration occurred 30 minutes after the meal. But when the participants ate four meals per day, the peak plasma glucose concentration occurred 60 minutes after the meal. This suggests that the human body is capable of predicting when regular meals will be served and adjusting its glucose levels accordingly. The study also found that meal size affected the participants’ glucose rhythms. When the participants were given larger meals, the maximum peak plasma glucose concentration occurred later in the day than when they were given smaller meals. This indicates that the body is able to adjust its glucose levels based on the size of the meal. Implications The findings of the study suggest that the human body has an innate ability to predict when meals will be served and to adjust its glucose levels accordingly. This could be a useful tool for those trying to better control their blood glucose levels, such as people with diabetes. Knowing how meal timing and size affect glucose levels could help those with diabetes plan their meals more effectively. The findings of the study could also have implications for our understanding of nutrition and metabolism. This study suggests that the body is capable of making predictions about meal timing and size and making adjustments accordingly. This could explain why certain meal schedules and meal sizes are more beneficial for certain individuals than others. Conclusion In conclusion, the University of Surrey study has provided valuable insights into the human body’s ability to predict the timing of regular meals. The study found that daily blood glucose rhythms may be driven not only by meal timing, but by meal size as well. These findings could have implications for those with diabetes who are trying to better manage their blood glucose levels, as well as our understanding of nutrition and metabolism. Ultimately, the findings of this study can help us better understand the human body’s ability to predict regular meal timing.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/human-body-can-predict-mealtimes-shows-study

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Identifying drug target candidates to treat pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma tumors

Introduction Cancer is an unyielding and devastating disease that causes millions of deaths each year. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, cancer is still a daunting and mysterious force of nature. Rhabdomyosarcoma, or RMS, is a rare but particularly devastating type of cancer that affects primarily children. This cancer is known for its aggressiveness, posing a great challenge for cancer biologists who are yet to understand the mechanisms and cellular hierarchy leading to the developmental arrest that occurs in RMS. This article aims to discuss what is currently known about the molecular mechanisms, cellular hierarchy, and treatment of RMS, in order to provide a better understanding of this cancer. Overview of Rhabdomyosarcoma Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects mainly children. It is typically classified by histological subtypes, including embryonal, alveolar, and botryoid. It is characterized by malignant rhabdomyoblasts, cells that typically differentiate into skeletal muscle, but in RMS become arrested in developmental stages. While it can occur anywhere in the body, this cancer is most common in the head and neck, including the orbit, genitourinary tract, extremities, and trunk. It is most common in patients younger than age 10, and is the most common soft tissue malignancy in children. Molecular Mechanisms of Rhabdomyosarcoma In order to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms leading to the developmental arrest in RMS, researchers have begun to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of this cancer. Several genes have been identified as drivers of RMS pathogenesis. TP53 is the most frequent gene alteration found in RMS, with rates of alteration ranging from 33–63%, depending on the subtype. This gene is the most commonly mutated driver in cancer, and it is known to be a major tumor suppressor. Other studies have discovered that loss of PTEN, a tumor suppressor gene, is associated with worse overall survival outcomes in RMS. Additionally, up to 10% of RMS cases have been discovered to have a TP63-driven gene signature, suggesting this gene may have an important role in RMS. Cellular Hierarchy of Rhabdomyosarcoma In order to further understand the development of RMS, researchers have sought to gain an understanding of the cellular hierarchy of this cancer. Studies have found that RMS is associated with the accumulation of certain “cancer stem cells”, or “tumor-initiating cells”, which have an inherent ability to differentiate into multiple types of cells. Specifically, these cells have been observed to have the capacity to differentiate into various types of muscle cells, suggesting they may play a role in the development of RMS. Additionally, research has found that these tumor-initiating cells can lead to the formation of tumors, and are resistant to traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, suggesting they may be responsible for treatment resistance observed in RMS. Treatments for Rhabdomyosarcoma As RMS is a relatively rare cancer, there is still much to be learned about its treatment. Currently, the mainstay of treatment is typically a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Surgery is commonly used to remove tumors, while radiation helps to reduce the size of tumors that cannot be removed surgically. Chemotherapy is used to treat systemic spread of the cancer, and is often utilized in combination with surgery and radiation. Additionally, more targeted treatments are being developed and tested, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors, in order to more effectively target the molecular pathways involved in RMS. Conclusion Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare but devastating cancer that disproportionately affects children. While much progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of this cancer, much still remains to be learned about the molecular mechanisms and cellular hierarchy of RMS. Research has identified several driver genes and tumor-initiating cells that appear to play a role in the development of RMS. Current treatments are typically a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, as well as more targeted treatments such as CDK4/6 inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors. It is hoped that further research will yield new insights into the development and treatment of RMS, so that this cancer may be better understood and effectively treated in the future.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/identifying-drug-target-candidates-to-treat-pediatric-rhabdomyosarcoma-tumors

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Study supports evidence that ivermectin is ineffective at treating COVID-19

High doses of the drug ivermectin, controversially recommended by some high-profile political and media figures during the COVID-19 pandemic, is ineffective at treating the COVID-19 virus, say University of Oxford affiliated researchers in a study published today in eLife. A new study from researchers at the University of Oxford has revealed that high doses of the drug ivermectin are not effective at treating the COVID-19 virus. The findings, published today in the journal eLife, put an end to the controversial practice of using the drug to treat the virus, which has been advocated by some high-profile political and media figures. The study, which was led by Dr. Michael Davies from the University of Oxford, used a combination of in vitro and in vivo testing to study the effects of ivermectin on the coronavirus. In vitro testing involves testing the drug on cultures of cells, while in vivo tests are conducted on animals. The researchers found that ivermectin was not effective at reducing the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in either cultured cells or animal models. Furthermore, they found that the drug caused a reduction in the activity of the protein known as the 'inflammasome', which is important for immune function. This could potentially increase the risk of severe inflammation. The study authors concluded that while ivermectin may have a positive effect on other viruses, it is not effective against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, and thus not a viable treatment for the disease. The controversial practice of using high doses of ivermectin to treat COVID-19 has been advocated by some high-profile political and media figures. Despite the lack of conclusive scientific evidence, some have argued that ivermectin could be used as a treatment for the virus. This new research suggests otherwise, providing concrete scientific evidence that ivermectin is not effective at treating the coronavirus. The authors of the study hope their findings will put an end to the misleading and potentially dangerous practice of using ivermectin to treat COVID-19. They warn that such practices may only further complicate treatment of the virus, and could even put patients at risk of further complications. The findings of the study are clear – high doses of ivermectin are not effective at treating the COVID-19 virus. This new research serves as an important reminder to follow the advice of medical professionals, and to avoid unproven treatments, particularly when it comes to possible treatments for COVID-19. With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for effective treatments has become increasingly apparent. As such, it is essential that we rely on evidence-based science to inform our decisions, and avoid potentially dangerous practices. This latest research from the University of Oxford highlights the importance of relying on scientific evidence, rather than the opinions of high-profile figures, when it comes to our health. It is clear that high doses of ivermectin are not effective at treating the coronavirus. This research underscores the importance of relying on scientific evidence when it comes to making healthcare decisions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new study is a positive step towards understanding the virus, and provides important information that may help to inform future treatments.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/study-supports-evidence-that-ivermectin-is-ineffective-at-treating-covid-19

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Patients identified as frail before surgery less likely to die one year after

New Research Sheds Light on Benefits of Preoperative Care for Frail Older Patients Society has long understood the importance of preoperative care for older patients scheduled to undergo surgery. Today, new research published in JAMA Surgery brings to light the importance of comprehensive preoperative care, particularly for frail older patients. The research team conducted a randomized clinical trial involving 1077 patients aged 65 and older who were scheduled to undergo major noncardiac surgery. Each patient was screened for frailty, and those deemed to be frail were randomly assigned to receive either comprehensive preoperative care or standard preoperative care. The comprehensive preoperative care package provided to the first group included conversation about possible outcomes with a physician, help preparing the patient’s body for surgery, and resources for postoperative insurance enrollment, physical and psychological services, and self-care. The researchers then followed up with each patient one year after the surgery. The results of the research showed that after one year, the mortality rate of the group receiving the comprehensive preoperative care package was significantly lower than that of the group receiving the standard preoperative care package—3% versus 8%. Furthermore, patients receiving the comprehensive preoperative care were more likely to be independent with activities of daily living at one year—73% versus 63%. This research supports the importance of providing comprehensive preoperative care to frail older patients who are scheduled to undergo major noncardiac surgery. The researchers suggest that the comprehensive preoperative care package could help to reduce mortality and improve outcomes for these patients. The results of this research have important implications for aged care professionals. It is now clear that providing comprehensive preoperative care to frail older patients is essential for improving their outcomes and potentially lengthening their lives. This research provides strong evidence that aged care professionals should prioritize preoperative care for these patients, who are among the most vulnerable. Aged care professionals must ensure that frail older patients who are scheduled for major noncardiac surgery are receiving comprehensive preoperative care. This care can include conversations with a physician about possible outcomes, help preparing their body for surgery, and resources for postoperative insurance enrollment, physical and psychological services, and self-care. By focusing on preoperative care, aged care professionals can help to ensure that frail older patients receive the care they need to stay safe and healthy throughout their surgical procedures. As demonstrated by this research, comprehensive preoperative care can have a positive impact on their outcomes, potentially helping to reduce mortality in this high-risk population. Preoperative care is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of frail older patients. A new study published in JAMA Surgery showcases the importance of comprehensive preoperative care for these high-risk patients. The research found that when frail older patients scheduled for major noncardiac surgery received comprehensive preoperative care, including conversations about outcomes and help preparing their body for surgery, they had a lower mortality rate and better outcomes one year after the surgery. This new research is a reminder to the aged care community that comprehensive preoperative care should be a priority for frail older patients undergoing major noncardiac surgery. With comprehensive preoperative care, aged care professionals can help these patients stay safe and healthy throughout their surgical procedures, while potentially reducing the mortality risk associated with these surgeries. Preoperative care can include conversations with a physician about possible outcomes, help preparing the patient’s body for surgery, and resources for postoperative insurance enrollment, physical and psychological services, and self-care. These conversations can help with preoperative planning, providing the patient with important knowledge about the potential outcomes of their surgery and potential postoperative care needs. Preparation for surgery can include measures such as improving nutrition and physical activity, as well as assessing and improving mental health. Resources for insurance enrollment, physical and psychological services, and self-care are essential for postoperative recovery. The results of this research demonstrate the importance of comprehensive preoperative care for frail older patients scheduled for major noncardiac surgery. Aged care professionals should prioritize preoperative care for these patients, who are among the most vulnerable. By taking a comprehensive approach to preoperative care, these professionals can help to reduce mortality and improve outcomes for these patients. In summary, new research published in JAMA Surgery underscores the importance of comprehensive preoperative care for frail older patients undergoing major noncardiac surgery. This research shows that providing conversations about possible outcomes and help preparing the patient’s body for surgery can reduce mortality and improve outcomes. Aged care professionals should prioritize preoperative care for these patients, taking a comprehensive approach to ensure the best possible outcomes. Taking such measures can help to reduce mortality and improve outcomes, while helping these patients stay safe and healthy throughout their surgical procedures.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/patients-identified-as-frail-before-surgery-less-likely-to-die-one-year-after

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Was Earth already heating up, or did global warming reverse a long-term cooling trend?

The Earth's temperature has been on a dramatic rise for the past century. The effects of this rapid increase in temperature can be felt almost all around the world, from diminished snow and ice cover, to heat waves and coastal flooding. The scientific community has traced the worldwide temperature increase to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, which has led to a buildup of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. For the past one hundred years, thermometers and other sophisticated measuring devices have been used to monitor the Earth's climate and temperature. The results have been clear and consistent. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the global average surface temperature has risen by 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) over the past century. This warming has been observed in both land and ocean temperatures. The evidence of this global temperature rise is alarming, but unfortunately it is not surprising. Scientists have long known that the burning of fossil fuels was causing a buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping heat and rising temperatures around the world. This phenomenon is known as the “greenhouse effect.” The accumulation of these pollutants has been identified as the primary driver of the Earth’s temperature increase. It is important to note that the effects of global warming are not limited to temperature. Perhaps the most visible of global warming’s effects is the melting of snow and ice cover. As temperatures continue to rise due to greenhouse gases, snow and ice cover is diminishing in many areas worldwide. This has far-reaching impacts, from the disruption of Arctic ecosystems, to sea-level rises in coastal areas. Beyond the melting of snow and ice, global warming has been linked to an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events. Heat waves, droughts, floods, hurricanes, and other weather phenomena have all been linked to rising temperatures. Warmer air temperatures can lead to a greater number of extreme weather events, causing further disruption to ecosystems and communities around the world. The scientific community has now largely agreed that human activities – such as the burning of fossil fuels – are the primary driver of global warming. The Earth’s temperature has risen steadily over the past century and the evidence is difficult to dispute. Measuring devices such as thermometers and sensors around the world have confirmed this global temperature rise and the data is alarming. The most visible impact of global warming is the melting of snow and ice cover in many areas around the world. In addition to this, global warming has also been linked to an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events. Heat waves, droughts, floods, hurricanes, and other weather phenomena have all been linked to rising temperatures. The consequences of global warming reach far beyond the disruption of ecosystems and communities around the world. Scientists have warned of the potential for irreversible damage to the planet. Global warming is leading to sea-level rises and has been linked to the acidification of ocean waters, as well as an overall decrease in the world’s biodiversity. Humans must take steps to reduce their contribution to global warming. If we do not act now, the planet could suffer catastrophic and irreversible damage, resulting in a whole host of serious consequences. We must consider the future of the planet and move away from activities that produce greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Reducing our emissions is the only way to prevent further warming of the planet. It is clear that global warming is a serious issue and its impacts cannot be ignored. The Earth’s average temperature has risen by 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) over the past century, due to the burning of fossil fuels and the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This rapid temperature increase is leading to the melting of snow and ice cover, sea-level rises, and an overall decrease in the world’s biodiversity. In addition, warmer temperatures have been linked to an increase in extreme weather events, such as heat waves and floods. It is now more important than ever that humans take action to reduce emissions and move away from activities that produce greenhouse gases and other pollutants. We must consider the future of the planet and take steps to reduce the impacts of global warming. If we are to avoid catastrophic and irreversible damage to the planet, we must act now.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/was-earth-already-heating-up-or-did-global-warming-reverse-a-long-term-cooling-trend-1

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Lonely tunes: Humpback whales wail less as population grows

Humpback whales are some of the most impressive and majestic creatures of the sea, known for their haunting and melodic songs that can often be heard echoing throughout the depths of the ocean. However, what is not commonly known is that these songs may actually be a sign of loneliness experienced by the whales. Recent research has shown that these beautiful songs may be a primal instinctive response to a lack of companionship for the humpbacks. It is thought that when a whale does not have a suitable social group with which to swim and interact, they release a plaintive song into the watery depths in search of other whales and a sense of belonging. This hypothesis was initially put forward by researchers studying the behavior of several groups of humpbacks in the Pacific Ocean. Upon observation, it was noted that when an isolated whale was encountered, its song was much more plaintive and melancholic than the songs sung by whales who had companions. Over time, the scientists noted a correlation between the songs and the social dynamics of the humpbacks – those who were alone had the saddest and most plaintive songs, while those who were in the presence of social groups had happier and more lively songs. Although the activities of whales are still not fully understood, it is likely that the melancholic tunes sung by lone humpbacks can be seen as a sign of loneliness. For many of these remarkable creatures, the need for companionship is as strong as that of any social animal, and their songs may simply be a form of communication to help them in their search for companionship. In further support of this idea, recent studies of other whale species have produced similar results. For example, a study of blue whales in the Pacific revealed that the songs of the isolated whales were much sadder and more plaintive than their counterparts who were with their pods. This suggests that loneliness is not only an issue for humpbacks but for other whale species too. Although the research into the melancholy songs sung by whales is still in its early stages, the observations made by the scientists go some way to explaining the songs of the humpbacks. It is thought that the whales use their plaintive tunes as a way to connect with their own kind and to draw attention to their plight. Despite the melancholy nature of these tunes, it is also a reminder of the importance of companionship among the whale species. It demonstrates that, regardless of species, social connection is a key factor in the happiness of animals. These remarkable creatures should serve as a reminder to us all of the importance of connecting with others and the need for companionship.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/lonely-tunes-humpback-whales-wail-less-as-population-grows-1

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Lonely tunes: Humpback whales wail less as population grows

Those melancholy tunes sung by humpback whales may really be a sign of loneliness.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/lonely-tunes-humpback-whales-wail-less-as-population-grows

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Was Earth already heating up, or did global warming reverse a long-term cooling trend?

Over the past century, the Earth's average temperature has swiftly increased by about 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit). The evidence is hard to dispute. It comes from thermometers and other sensors around the world.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/was-earth-already-heating-up-or-did-global-warming-reverse-a-long-term-cooling-trend

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Governments target medical debt with COVID relief funds

Millions of Americans mired in medical debt face difficult financial decisions every day—pay the debt or pay for rent, utilities and groceries. Some may even skip necessary health care for fear of sinking deeper into debt.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/governments-target-medical-debt-with-covid-relief-funds

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European big cat population threatened with extinction as genetics show the population is near collapse

Scientists warn that if action isn't taken soon, the Eurasian lynx will vanish from France. This elusive wild cat, which was reintroduced to Switzerland in the 1970s, moved across the French border by the end of the decade. But a genetic study published in Frontiers in Conservation Science showed that the lynx population in France is in desperate need of help to survive.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/european-big-cat-population-threatened-with-extinction-as-genetics-show-the-population-is-near-collapse

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