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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Exploring the polysaccharide composition of plant cell walls in succulent aloes

The popularity of aloe vera has grown significantly over the past decade, and with it, the implementation of aloe vera in products has risen exponentially. Aloe vera is a succulent plant species, meaning it retains water in its leaves. This allows it to survive longer periods of dryness, and it is one of the reasons why it is a popular choice for products and ingredients. Aloe Vera: A Popular Plant with Numerous Health Benefits Aloe vera first gained mainstream popularity for its use in cosmetics and skin care products. Its gel-like consistency is ideal for creams and lotions, and it’s naturally anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and heal the skin. It has even been known to reduce the appearance of acne and scars. Aloe vera is also used in haircare products, as it can help to moisturize the scalp and strengthen hair. But aloe vera is more than just a popular beauty product. It has long been used in traditional medicine, and it is now being researched for its possible health benefits. Studies have shown that aloe vera can help to reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of some chronic illnesses. It has even been found to be effective in treating wounds and burns due to its high concentration of polysaccharides. Aloe vera has also been known to be beneficial for digestive health. The plant contains substances that can help to increase the activity of helpful enzymes and bacteria in the digestive system. It has been found to reduce symptoms of IBS and ulcerative colitis, and it can even help to regulate glucose levels. Finally, aloe vera is a great source of antioxidants. These are compounds that can neutralize free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage to our cells. Antioxidants can help to reduce the risk of some types of cancer, as well as reducing the signs of premature aging. Aloe vera is a powerful plant, and it is one of the most popular plants used in products and medicines around the world. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular choice for cosmetics and skin care products, while its potential benefits to our health and wellbeing cannot be underestimated. Whether you’re using it in a lotion or a smoothie, aloe vera is a useful and versatile plant that can help to support health and wellbeing. Are you looking for an ingredient to incorporate into your daily routine? Look no further than Aloe Vera. This popular plant has gained a lot of attention over the last decade, due to its incredible health and beauty benefits. Consisting of a number of species from the genus Aloe, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and over 20% of these species are used in the local regions they grow in. Aloe Vera, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties and gel-like consistency, is a popular choice for many products and ingredients. Most notably, this succulent comes highly recommended for its use in skin care, haircare and even cosmetic products. Its healing properties can soothe and reduce the appearance of acne and scars, as well as add moisture to the scalp and strengthen hair. But its health benefits don’t stop at beauty. Aloe Vera can also be incredibly beneficial for digestive health, with its compounds stimulating the activity of helpful enzymes and bacteria in the digestive system. Studies suggest its consumption can help treat various illnesses such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Ulcerative Colitis, as well as regulate glucose levels. When it comes to fighting cancer and other diseases, its high concentration of polysaccharides and antioxidants can be highly beneficial. Antioxidants are powerful compounds that can neutralize free radicals which can cause oxidative damage to our cells, while polysaccharides can reduce inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of some chronic illnesses. It’s clear that Aloe Vera has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking to improve skin health, treat digestive problems or reduce the risk of certain diseases, this versatile plant can offer a range of health benefits. Its gel-like consistency makes it easy to use in a number of products, from lotions and smoothies to drinks and over-the-counter products. So why not make the most of this powerful plant and reap the rewards it has to offer?

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/exploring-the-polysaccharide-composition-of-plant-cell-walls-in-succulent-aloes

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Health care vaccine mandate remains as some push for an end

At Truman Lake Manor nursing home in rural Missouri, every day begins with an extra level of precaution for staff and residents entering the building. Every employee must take a COVID-19 test before beginning their shift, to prevent the spread of the virus within the facility. The testing process begins with a swab up the nose, followed by a few drops of a testing solution. After a brief wait, the swab is checked to see if the solution has caused a thin red line to appear, indicating a positive COVID-19 test. If the red line is present, the employee is immediately sent home to self-isolate. The nursing home, like many others across the country, has had to adjust to a new reality in the face of this global pandemic. The facility implemented strict safety regulations, including masks and additional cleaning protocols, even before the virus had been detected within the building. Now, daily testing has become a critical part of the safety protocols. The facility administers more than 100 tests per day, and the results are usually available within a few minutes. In addition, the facility is utilizing contact tracing and the isolation of infected individuals to help identify and contain any potential outbreaks. The staff at Truman Lake Manor take the testing process very seriously. They understand the importance of their job in keeping not only the residents safe from the virus, but potentially the whole community. “It’s not just a job, but it’s a mission,” said one of the nurses. The residents at the facility are also showing a strong commitment to safety protocols. As one resident commented, “We all need to take care of ourselves and each other in this difficult time.” The willingness of the staff and residents to take part in the testing process and follow safety protocols has been an essential part of keeping the virus out of the facility. Thanks to the dedication of the staff, and the cooperation of the residents, Truman Lake Manor has been able to keep its COVID-19 case count low. Of the more than 500 people living in the facility, only two have tested positive for the virus, and both have since recovered. The daily testing process has become an important part of life at Truman Lake Manor. While it may seem a bit inconvenient for some, it’s a testament to the commitment of the staff and residents in the fight against this pandemic. Knowing the presence of the virus is being monitored gives the residents and their families a sense of security that the facility will remain safe. The daily testing process at Truman Lake Manor is an example of how even in a rural area, taking the necessary precautions can help keep a facility as safe as possible during these trying times. With the dedication of the staff and cooperation of the residents, the same level of safety can be achieved in nursing homes across the country. By using the same testing protocols that are present at Truman Lake Manor, other nursing homes can ensure the safety of their staff, residents, and the community as a whole.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/health-care-vaccine-mandate-remains-as-some-push-for-an-end

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Russia 'expected' to launch rescue ship to ISS on Feb 24: official

Russia's space agency said Saturday it was planning to send a rescue ship on February 24 to bring home three astronauts whose return vehicle was damaged by a tiny meteoroid.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/russia-expected-to-launch-rescue-ship-to-iss-on-feb-24-official

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Why sick minks are reigniting worries about bird flu

A recent bird flu outbreak at a mink farm has reignited worries about the virus spreading more broadly to people.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/why-sick-minks-are-reigniting-worries-about-bird-flu

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Harnessing plant molecules to harvest solar energy

Our current solar panels aren't very efficient; they are only able to convert up to about 20% of the sun's energy into electricity. As a result, to generate a lot of electricity, the panels require a lot of space—sometimes leading forests to be cut down or farms to be replaced by solar. If solar panels were more efficient, much smaller panels could make the same amount of electricity, and wouldn't claim as much land.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/harnessing-plant-molecules-to-harvest-solar-energy

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What effect will replacing short-haul flights have on carbon dioxide emissions and international connectivity?

Last December, France obtained approval from the European Commission to prohibit short-haul flights with alternatives by rail taking less than 2.5 hours, in a measure aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and combating climate change.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/what-effect-will-replacing-short-haul-flights-have-on-carbon-dioxide-emissions-and-international-connectivity

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