Ketamine for Chronic Pain: Doubts and Uncertainties
A review casts doubt on ketamine and similar drugs for chronic pain relief, citing limited evidence of benefit and significant side effects. High-quality trials are needed to assess its role.
Ischemia & Cancer: Blood Flow’s Impact on Tumor Growth
Research reveals that restricted blood circulation (ischemia) drives cancer growth by reprogramming stem cells and impairing immune responses. Peripheral artery disease is linked to faster breast tumor growth.
Oxytocin’s Role in Vole Social Bonds & Peer Relationships
Research shows oxytocin is crucial for rapid social bond formation, especially peer relationships, in voles. Receptor-deficient voles show delayed bond formation, impacting social behavior and brain oxytocin release.
Maryland Abortion Funds: ACA Taps for Out-of-State Patients
Maryland uses ACA funds to aid abortion access for out-of-state patients post-Roe, facing increased demand and financial strain. Funds support travel, lodging, and procedures.
Self-Powered Microneedle Patch Monitors Health Biomarkers
A self-powered microneedle patch monitors health biomarkers in interstitial fluid (ISF) without batteries, offering a painless alternative to blood tests. ISF sampling using microneedle technology.
Skin in a Syringe: Hydrogel for Wound Healing & 3D-Printed Skin
Scientists develop 'skin in a syringe' – a hydrogel with live cells for direct wound application and 3D-printed skin grafts. Combines fibroblasts, gelatin beads, and hyaluronic acid for dermis regeneration.
Healthcare Hustle: Fake Jobs & Health Insurance Scams
Bloomberg reporters expose how people unknowingly enrolled in health insurance through fake jobs, facing denied claims and huge bills. Unregulated plans leave consumers vulnerable. Affordable Care Act impacts.
Lipoedema: Diet, Pain Relief, and Research
Research explores lipoedema, a painful condition causing fat build-up. Low-carb diets show promise for pain relief and weight loss. Compression garments provide relief. More research is needed for effective treatment.
Pancreatic Cancer: Blocking Nutrient Scavenging Improves Treatment
Blocking macropinocytosis, a nutrient-scavenging process used by pancreatic cancer (PDAC) cells, reshapes the tumor microenvironment, enhancing immunotherapy and radiation effectiveness. This improves drug delivery and immune cell access.
Alzheimer’s Research: Therapies, Challenges & Future
Alzheimer's research is at a critical point with initial therapies emerging, but more efficient drugs are needed. Research focuses on early treatments, inflammation's role, and overcoming funding challenges. Biomarkers are vital.
Skink’s Snake Venom Resistance: An Evolutionary Marvel
Australian skinks evolved resistance to snake venom via muscle receptor alterations, mirroring adaptations in mongooses. This showcases adaptability and offers potential for novel antivenoms and treatments.
EveryStep App: Enhancing Therapy Engagement & Mental Health
The EveryStep app, developed using a scientific Delphi Agreement, helps patients prepare for and benefit from talking therapy (CBT) by providing daily tasks, videos, and podcasts. Aims to reduce high dropout rates.
Food Allergies & MCAS: Bee’s Journey to Europe
Bee's story: food allergies (cheese, wheat) & MCAS led her to Europe seeking relief. Dr. Rubin warns against unsupervised food challenges due to life-threatening risks. Mycotoxins impact.
Alzheimer’s: Cancer Drugs Show Promise in Reversing Brain Changes
Researchers identify cancer drugs (Letrozole, Irinotecan) that may reverse Alzheimer's brain changes by targeting gene expression. Combination therapy shows promise in mouse model, paving way for clinical trials.
Bat Bite, Rabies & Unexpected $20K Medical Bill: Insurance Lapse
A woman bitten by a bat faces $20K in medical bills due to a lapse in health insurance. Rabies treatment costs and ACA plan limitations highlighted. COBRA option missed.
Tongue Coating Analysis for Parkinson’s Disease Detection
Study explores tongue coating composition for Parkinson's disease detection. Palmitoylethanolamide shows potential as a biomarker. Non-invasive tongue sampling offers a cost-effective diagnostic tool.
AI Predicts Cancer: Genomics & Digital Twins for Personalized Treatment
Scientists developed AI using genomics and computational modeling to predict cell behavior and cancer development. This enables digital twins for personalized immunotherapy and treatment strategies.