No matter what it is about - cancer, infectious diseases, injuries or diseases of the cardiovascular system - vitamin D will help you from all above mentioned diseases - such conclusions were made by researchers who conducted the new statistical study.
It turns out that when your body gets vitamin D in excess then the risk of premature death from any medical reasons is reduced by 30%. The thing is that the element that has a truly unique properties allows our bodies to achieve a balance between the state of the four main elements - the immune system, cardiovascular health, bone health and normal metabolism.
But more importantly - vitamin D provides a healthy cell replication of DNA structures. To put it simply, in each organ of our body has a continuous process of the withering away of the old cells and the birth of new cells to replace them. However, to ensure that the new cells will be healthier, or at least, as healthier than the previous ones, is difficult. And if they are not born as such, the term is not as difficult to guess, would lead to the development of various diseases. Vitamin D is now the only element for which it is proved that it really helps to secure these processes and the light of the risk of negative changes at the cellular level to a minimum. But here's another fact about vitamin D, which you should know - in the modern world, its level in the average population of developed countries is disastrously low, and decreases in proportion to the person's age. Its fairly could be recognized as a vitamin, which most people do not have enough, but until now the statistical studies on this topic were not conducted.
It is important to note that fifty percent of U.S. citizens have a level of vitamin D of 30 ng / ml, and 40% had severe deficiency (below 20 ng / ml). However, it is interesting that according to most currently available studies, the risk of development of various forms of cancer in this case at the proper level of vitamin D in the body is reduced to the level of 15% to 70%. In particular, the risk of colorectal cancer is reduced by 40% compared with the standard.
Jan 23, 2012
Animals May Harbor "Human" Emotions
Most of the medical experiments, due to which we now have modern medicine and know a lot and the functioning of the basic biological processes in living organism has been put on the animals - particularly rats, rabbits and other animals.
In almost all the time there were many people who wanted to limit such experiments, however, representatives of the medical community has traditionally argued that it is for the benefit of us humans, and it is only animals that will not only have a limited intellect, but are not able to feed many emotions preferring to be guided by instinct. However, a recent study by researchers carried out on animals again (this time on rats) demonstrated that in fact the man have mistaken for a long time - the animal is able to feed most that on is the "human feelings".
A new study were involved several hundred of rats. The experiment took place as follows - one of the rats was placed in a trap - a narrow cell with a special latch, which could not open from the inside, but which at the same time quite easily be opened from the outside. The second rat dispensed to walk in space around the cells for 1 hour. The scientists watched to whether or not a rat to show compassion to someone in distress. And amazingly - 23 of 30 rats targeted approach to the cage and opened it. The researchers also conducted additional research in order to understand - do not reveal whether the mechanism of rat cells out of pure curiosity. In the case where the trap was empty, only 5 of 40 rats showed an interest in the mechanism.
In other trials a rat was offered an alternative - the food or the salvation of its comrades. It is interesting that in almost every case, a hungry rat not only chose the second option, but later shared their food with the eliberated comrade. Needless to say, that such action is contrary to every instinct of animals, and moreover, such behavior is difficult to find even among the people. It was also observed that female rats by approximately 25% exhibit empathy more than males, which corresponds approximately to the present situation in human society.
Jan 16, 2012
Fish Makes Babies Less Prone To Allergies
Today is well-known the fact that the child's health is determined by the food, which made use of his mother during pregnancy, as well as those that consumed himself in the early years of his life.
Proper nutrition forms a strong immune system, optimal metabolic processes, adequate physical and intellectual development, and much more. Improper diet can eventually lead to the fact that the risk of certain diseases in children is significantly overvalued. In a new study published in the journal Acta Paediatrica, were provided evidence that feeding the baby with the fish in the first nine months of his life greatly reduces the chance of developing allergic diseases in him during his later life. At the same time, it was revealed that an absolutely any procedures with the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, in contrast, significantly increases the risk of wheezing, asthma and various allergic reactions.
A large study was conducted by scientists from Sweden. There were randomly selected 8176 families with newborn babies. The researchers analyzed what foods mostly reduce the risk of various allergic reactions and respiratory problems in children of preschool age. It was found that the most useful in this regard is the fish - it reduces the risk of such diseases, at least at half. Researchers have not yet taken to say what specific kind of fish is most useful for prevention of various allergies and respiratory problems in children. However, according to an official report - the most frequently used in Swedish families had a white fish and salmon, herring and mackerel - they accounted for 97% of fish products in the diet of the analyzed families.
In parallel, the study showed definitive inadmissibility of the use of broad spectrum antibiotics for children under the age of 4.5 years. The risk of developing breathing problems, allergies and various inflammatory processes is doubled, and the importance of proper nutrition in the first months of life while completely leveled - then these diseases occur with a probability of 50%, exceeding the average values - the researchers note.
Jan 9, 2012
Exercises In The Second Trimester
A recent clinical study showed that women who regularly perform physical exercises in the second half of pregnancy, however did not decrease the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes. The study involved 855 pregnant women at term from 18 to 22 weeks were divided into two groups. The first group exercised for an hour three times a week for 12 weeks (aerobic, strength training, stretching). In addition, they did the exercises at home twice a week. The second group had a normal life. By the third trimester gestational diabetes was diagnosed in 7% of women in the first group and 6% - from the second.
The head of research, Signe N. Stafne from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, was surprised with the results: generally, exercises for the population are surest means of preventing type 2 diabetes. "Maybe the exercise have different effects on type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes," - says Stafne. "Nevertheless, moderate exerciseare beneficial for pregnant women as they improve health and keep weight within normal limits," - he adds.
An estimated gestational diabetes develops in 14% of pregnant women worldwide. After birth, this condition passes off, but it can lead to several complications of pregnancy, such as large fetus. In addition, these women have increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the future.
Interestingly, in the first group only 55% of women strictly observed the prescribed treatment sessions. "It seems that research shows mostly how difficult is to make pregnant women do exercises, rather than useless exercises themselves," - said Dr. Rita W. Driggers, an obstetrician-gynecologist in Washington, who was not involved in the study. In addition, only 13% of women in the first group kept the intensity of exercise of moderate to high. "Maybe we want too much from them," - said Dr. Driggers.
American Staff of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends for pregnant to do moderate exercise, such as walking for 30 minutes a day.
The study is published in the journal "Obstetrics & Gynecology".
Jan 3, 2012
Proper Diet Can Protect The Brain From Aging
A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can protect the brain from aging, assess the scientists. If the human diet is dominated by monotonous food, more harmful than helpful, the opposite effect can be observed - the aging process in our brain is accelerating.
Especially harmful to brain cells are the so-called trans fats found mostly in fast foods, for example in all of prepared meat products. They are the greatest medicine of all known nutrients can stimulate negative changes in the human brain, the researchers note.
Thus, it becomes clear why some elderly people who in the age of 60-65 start to suffer from problems with memory, vision, and inhibition of thought, while others are able to live up to 90 years while maintaining strong mind and a sober memory. Scientists advise people to start thinking about the state of the brain in advance, as one's aging to a certain extent different from the rest of the aging body. Thus, if the body does not get the necessary minerals and vitamins, it quickly begins to lose its power. As a result, the person experiences memory deterioration and cognitive function of thinking. From this went the well-known myth that people who regularly consume fast foods, do not "shine" with intelligence.
However, our brain is not at all 'demanding'. The most important thing to it is that diet should contain vitamins B, C, D and E, omega-3 fats, as well as at least a quarter consisted of vegetables and fruits. Also contrary to another widely known myth is not always sweet foods are good for the brain - the various cookies, cakes and pies can also contain trans fats. Our diet is reflected in particular on the size of our brain. Man, regularly eating properly can have a brain in a volume of 20% more than the person who has in the blood large amounts of trans fats. According to Maret Traber from the University of Oregon, "today there are many myths about food, and that it may be harmful or beneficial. We now can you say for sure - regularly eat fish of different varieties, as well as fruits and vegetables in large quantities, and you'll not only have a healthy brain, but completely healthy body".
Dec 26, 2011
Folic Acid Prevents Laryngeal Cancer
Folic acid can cause partial or complete regression of leukoplakia larynx - diseases related to precancer, according to the Cancer magazine. These findings were made by scientists from the Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, conducted a study involving 43 patients.
All patients were diagnosed with leukoplakia - single or multiple whitish spots, located on the mucosa of the larynx. This is a disease that affects mainly smokers, in many cases becomes the larynx.
Within six months the patients took folic acid tablets - 5 mg three times a day.
Treatment with folic acid was effective in 31 patients, suggests study leader Giovanni Almadori. Among them, 19 patients experienced partial regression of the disease - the spot size decreased by more than 2 times. In 12 cases there was a complete cure of the disease: symptoms of leukoplakia were absent.
The role of folic acid in cancer development has been identified recently. Studies have shown that in the blood of patients with head and neck cancer, as well as patients with leukoplakia larynx, reduced concentration of folic acid. In this regard, it has been hypothesized that low folate level is a risk factor for the development and progression of cancer.
Italian researchers were able to confirm this hypothesis. Currently, scientists are preparing for large-scale study, in which capacity will be evaluated folic acid to prevent the development of head and neck cancer patients after surgery to remove the larynx leukoplakia.
Dec 19, 2011
Sexual Life During Pregnancy
Sex late in pregnancy does not lead to premature birth. A new study debunked the popular notion that sexual relations in the last weeks of pregnancy can lead to preterm labor.
Data collected by scientists from Ohio State University Medical Center, suggest rather the opposite: expectant mothers who did not refuse sex in the last weeks of pregnancy born children on average later than those who abstain from sexual relations. In the first group the average duration of pregnancy was 39.9 weeks, whereas in the second - only 39.3 weeks.
The study involved 93 women who visited the gynecologist's office from the 37th week of pregnancy. 47 of them said that they continue to have sex with their partners. Thus, the number is not abstaining from sex during late pregnancy women was 50.5% - more than any of previous similar studies.
Measurement of cervical dilatation of women did not reveal any relationship between the state of the cervix and sexually active women.
According to the coordinator of a research project of Dr. Jonathan Shaffir, a sign of impending early birth may be discomfort in the abdomen and the pressure within the pelvis. Such feelings do not have to have sex, which probably explains the study identified a correlation between abstinence from sexual relations, and relatively rapid resolution of the burden.
In any case, the results clearly indicate that sexual activity in the later stages of pregnancy can cause premature birth, believes Shaffir. The full study report is published in the June issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Dec 12, 2011
Playing Football and Changes In The Brain
According to a recent study by a group of British scientists football players, who often play with the head, frequently face with head injuries, which are very clearly visible during the scanning of the brain. When considering the 32 amateur football players were found symptoms similar to those seen in patients with brain concussion.
The attention of the scientific community to this issue was attracted after the death of the famous British football-player Jeff Astle, the reason of his were the brain injury resulting from beating the ball. According to an official report of this kind of medical injuries were not the direct cause of death of a footballer, but they caused degenerative changes in brain structure, which, in turn, led to an unfavorable outcome.
According to the estimates of researchers the relatively safe rate is less than 1,000 head strikes during the year, however, that rate does not meet even the fans, not to mention professional athletes. And although the football balls now are much easier than in the 1960s, during Jeff Astle play, they still represent a real danger to the brain of players. It is estimated that during exercise ball can fly at a speed of 34 miles/hour or 55 miles per hour, while in the professional game, this figure is doubled. That is, in other words, the player can stop a ball with the head, flying at a speed of auto racing on the freeway. However, the injuries during the football games are inconspicuous - their symptoms are practically not felt, and as a result people may not even be aware that a health problem.
Scientists have also found that microtraumas can be confirmed by five divisions of the brain - a few areas in the anterior and posterior cortex, which are responsible for memory, attention, mechanical work and functioning of the visual system. According to scientists, the problems with these functions in a professional football player can deteriorate over time, and for the most part they are irreversible.
Dec 5, 2011
Bee Venom - A Universal Wrinkles Remedy
Bee venom is recognized as the new panacea for age-related changes of the skin, says The Daily Mail. As shown by tests, venom is able to activate the production of collagen, essential for skin elasticity.
Dr. Sun Mi Han of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences of South Korea has created a line of cosmetics, the basis of which is namely bee venom. A New Zealand company Manuka Doctor promises that this tool will replace markets with Botox, as its full-fledged alternative.
It is known that in the product line has a moisturizing, cleansing foam, serum, cream and revitalizing mask. As the developers say, when applied to the skin of these people feel tingling. Organism at this point thinks that a person bitten by a bee. As a result, the place of an imaginary bite rushes blood, stimulates collagen and elastin.
According to Dr. Sun Mi Han, this therapy can also increase the number of keratinocytes - the cells that act as a protective barrier against external factors, such as bacteria, dehydration and sun damage. These cells are located in the upper part of the skin. Wrinkles appear when their number is reduced with age.
To get the bee venom, it has benn developed a special technology for its collection, not the alleged murder of insects - bees just make bite-glass collector. When the poison accumulates on the surface, it gets dried and cleaned. The purified form of poison is already used in cosmetology.
Nov 28, 2011
Soft Drinks and Teenagers
The list of health problems that may arise as a result of regular consumption of soft drinks grows like a house on fire. Traditionally, this category included obesity and a greater risk of developing diabetes. Only recently have scientists discovered that fizzy drink also has a negative impact on the memory of teenagers.
As a result of a new discovery it turned out that the more children consume such products, the more aggressive behavior they had. It was organized by the statistical study aimed at identifying behavioral problems in teens. Of the 1,800 students of different universities in Boston, randomly selected, about half of them regularly consumed different soft drinks. About 59% of their numbers in the school years has been convicted of violent acts by their peers as well as in relation to adults.
In the category of teenagers who did not consume such drinks, a similar percentage was only 32%. Scientists note that these results there is nothing surprising, especially given the fact that today is objectively proven connection between consumption of sugary drinks and depression - another very common behavioral problem. However, almost all of these problems are usually caused by the same reasons - namely the lack of a body of certain nutrients that a person receives through food and water. And as sweet carbonated drinks do not contain such substances at all, and thus able to satisfy thirst, the body is a deficiency of several important minerals and nutrients, and provokes a particular stress to the body and nervous system.
In particular, the regular consumption of soft drinks has the potential to provoke a state glipoglycemia or close to it. It is characterized by a decrease in blood glucose levels, and may also occur in people who are on a very strict diet. One of the main symptoms of this condition is precisely the increased aggression and irritability - ascertain scientists.
Nov 21, 2011
Watermelons Reduce The Risk Of Heart Disease
Regular consumption of watermelon is extremely effective in the prevention of the cardiovascular system, and particularly from heart attacks and strokes - it was proven recently by scientists from the University of Kentucky.
In addition, this berry helps people to be in shape - watermelon juice reduces the amount of fat on the body, adding a tonus throughout the body. Thus, scientists advise to include watermelon diet in athletes and people who are regularly subjected to severe physical stress.
But more importantly is that watermelon juice can reduce blood cholesterol levels and to clean the arteries from plaques, which scientists believe could potentially lead to blockage of blood vessels, which leads to heart attacks, strokes and many other diseases of the cardiovascular system. Positive impact on our health watermelon is primarily due to the presence in its composition of powerful antioxidant compounds Caratonoids, which significantly reduce the risk of atherosclerosis - the clogging of the arteries by cholesterol plaques, which is the most common cause of problems with the cardiovascular system. In this way, regular consumption of watermelon juice or watermelon can in the short term can significantly reduce blood pressure.
However, these beneficial properties of watermelon, apparently, do not end here. Like tomatoes, lycopene gives red colour to watermelons - this a special substance which, according to scientists, has a truly unique anti-cancer properties. To date, based on several studies it can be argued that regular consumption of foods containing lycopene, can reduce by almost one third the risk of developing colon cancer and prostate cancer. The scientists add that the use of watermelon has no side effects, no matter how much people use it. The optimal level of consumption is estimated to be three cups of watermelon juice per day, which is generally equivalent to 750 mg. of watermelon pulp.
However, scientists are convinced that many useful properties of the watermelon is not yet known, and new studies have yet to learn from what diseases this berry can save us.
Nov 14, 2011
Eating Raw Food Helps To Endure Pain
Pain is an inevitable attribute of our life, no matter how healthy is our lifestyle and diet. However, there are some foods that significantly reduce the pain, however, that if they are used in raw form.
Do not worry - raw meat, fish or some other similar food products you will not find in this list. But the banana is the best remedy for spasmodic pain. The thing is that the spasms and cramps are a symptom of potassium deficiency in the body - and the banana is the best product to cover this deficit.
But cinnamon is an indispensable tool in combating inflammation and accompanying pain, as well as the effects of uric acid accumulation which may become the cause of arthritis. Ginger and turmeric help to suppress the pain in our intestines, especially in the presence of ulcers or various disorders, as well as positive effects on the kidneys. But so common in the modern world, headache cures to horrible just - through the use of a handful of cherries. And it does not matter what was its cause.
In terms of common painkillers, which can affect any source of pain, where that was not traditionally celebrate the foods that are rich in vitamin C - strawberries, kiwi, oranges, guavas, lemons, and limes. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes the effect of lactic acid, and has a general beneficial effect on the body, resulting in significant pain subsides.
Approximately the same effect have olives, which also contain a set of extremely powerful antioxidants. And the best dish, the overwhelming pain in the body are fresh fruit salad - no pre-impact, no conservation - all to be only the most recent. In this salad will contain all of the same substances that are used for pain medications, but they are presented here in its natural form, and therefore better absorbed.
Nov 7, 2011
Prevention Of Tumors
The British offered to carry out prevention of malignant tumors using popular and inexpensive drugs, informs New Scientist. Two independent research groups have confirmed the effectiveness of aspirin and tamoxifen for the prevention of colon cancer and breast cancer, respectively.
An international team of scientists led by Sir John Burn from Newcastle University for four and a half years were watching more than 860 carriers of genes for the development of hereditary form of colon cancer. Half of them have taken daily to 600 milligrams of aspirin, the rest received a placebo. According to the survey, a hereditary disease developed in 19 of the first group of volunteers, as well as a 34 - out of control.
In turn, Jack Cuzick and his colleagues at the London Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine studied women who had mammograms during the increase in density was detected breast tissue. Researchers found that within 10 years after the test women with a tumors over 75 percent of gland tissue had developed breast cancer four times often than the rest of women.
Cuzick noted that the use of antiestrogenic drug Tamoxifen reduces the density of hormone-dependent breast tissue. According to the scientist, the use of this means reduced risk of breast cancer in women by 63 percent. Similar results were obtained by a research group led by Paul Goss from Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, USA.
According to Cuzick, existing screening programs for breast cancer at an early stage with mammography should be combined with prophylactic antiestrogenic drugs.
Oct 31, 2011
Flu Vaccines
The new study, which has already acquired the status of scandalous one, was conducted by a team of scientists from the UK. Statistical observation showed that the flu vaccine protects only 1.5 people out of 100, while the official version, the degree of protection from the infection after vaccination of all 60%. Thus, after grafting degree of protection should be calculated as the level of 60 from 100 people, which is more than 40 times higher than official statistics.
The study was conducted by comparing the two results obtained on the basis of statistical observations. In the first case, the control group consisted of 13 095 people - all of these people were not vaccinated against influenza. During three periods of seasonal epidemics of influenza viruses among them were infected only 395 people or 2.7%. In the second level of the control group, which included only people who have received vaccination against influenza vaccine in anticipation of the season got ill just 1.2%. Thus, it is easy to calculate that the difference between the two measures is 1.5%. That is, in fact we get the conclusion which has already been sounded above - the flu vaccine actually protects the body against the flu virus in only 1.5% of cases. Ultimately, it appears that out of 200 people who were vaccinating only 3 because it will avoid infection.
However, pharmaceutical companies are now more than a dozen years asserting that the level of effectiveness of influenza vaccines is at least 60%. The question is, where does that figure appear? In fact, after analyzing the official information, a group of scientists who conducted the new study has concluded that it was a publicity stunt and nothing more. In own research pharmacists simply divide 2.73% by 1.2% to yield about 0.43 - which is the ratio between the two control groups. As a result of subtracting this from the units, they are 0.57, and declare that the efficiency ratio, which is rounded and gives 60%. After all, everyone knew that if everyone knew that the shot only three out of two hundred actually be able to avoid the virus - then nobody would get vaccinated.
Oct 24, 2011
Organs Transplantation From Animals
It is very likely that soon the pigs can successfully 'migrate' from our kitchen table on the surgical one - leading scientists around the world are still struggling upon this issue. In the UK today on the waiting list for donor organs are 8 000 people. Three of them are dying every day.
In less developed countries the situation is much worse. For a long time, all the experiments with transplantation of animal tissue to the man ended in complete failure, because in most cases the rejection occurred. The human immune system begins to attack transplanted organs, perceiving them as a threat, as a result they should be removed to avoid complications.
However, scientists believe that the recent medicine is slowly but surely beginning to make headway in solving the problems concerning tissue rejection. Already now at an experimental level were quite successfully carried out transplants to men from pigs the human heart valve, which controls the flow of blood to the heart. To achieve this was possible through the use of recent advances of genetic engineering. The fact is that our immune cells attack not the the transplanted tissue itself, but protein contained in it - galactosyltransferase. To avoid it genetics helped scientists - they changed the gene function and removed from it the production of this protein. This is essentially the first step towards the implementation of long-standing dream of physicians - to be able to transplant animal tissues to people. However, its importance should not be overestimated. The probability of rejection still exists, but now scientists say that "it is possible to clearly establish the remaining factors that contribute to this phenomenon."
Of course, after determining them scientists have a high probability to get rid of. Now is possible to transplant a small amount of tissue, which still allows to achieve positive results in the treatment of diabetes of the first type, several heart problems and other diseases. In the future, scientists can not rule out the possibility that almost every organ can be transplanted from the animal - even brain cells. This in particular will help to successfully fight diseases such as Parkinson's disease.
Oct 17, 2011
Miscarriage: Risk Factors
According to statistics in the modern world, one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage. This phenomenon is usually difficult to relate only to bad habits or specific aspects of the mother's life, but researchers are convinced - there are certain risk factors, and if desired they can be manipulated, if not all, the most of them.
Although a consensus on this issue in the medical community by and large has not yet emerged, but most experts believe - the most common cause of early miscarriages (in the first 13 weeks of gestation) is associated with genetic abnormalities of the embryo or fetus. It is hard to assess where do they come from - most are likely to be inherited. True, this is only conjecture that the statistics did not back up, because even if your ancestors did not encounter a similar phenomenon - not the fact that you do not run with it.
However, genetic anomalies risk factors for miscarriage are not limited to - in particular, young mothers should be afraid of the following:
• Abnormal hormone levels - meets periodically, and affects the body's ability to adequately control the processes of pregnancy; • Problems with the cervix - if it opens too early, it can cause miscarriage later; • Problems with the uterus - an unusual form of uterine fibroids or, if they limit the space for the development of the fetus; • Violation of blood clotting - blood supply affects the fetus, as in the early and late stages of pregnancy; • Infections - blood poisoning and food poisoning, such as, for example, listeriosis (very rarely) can also provoke miscarriage; • Ectopic pregnancy - the fetus begins to develop outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. Symptoms include pain, fatigue and possibly bleeding.
Other risk factors for miscarriage (such as an empty gestational sac or a molar pregnancy) are extremely rare. Availability of each of the above problems can be diagnosed in time, and thus prevent undesirable consequences. In general, according to scientists, the risk of miscarriage increases with age of one of the partners, or in case of fertility problems in women, overweight, or if one partner consumes alcohol or regularly smokes. Physical activity during pregnancy are not relevant - a restricted diet is contraindicated as well - nutrition should be comprehensive and balanced.
Oct 11, 2011
Green Tea Slows The Weight Gain
Green tea contains much healthier ingredients, including antioxidants. A recent study showed that, among other things, green tea can slow weight gain.
Most types of green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) - a substance that scientists are interested in and from Pennsylvania. To test its effect on obesity, the researchers divided the mice into two groups: both groups received food rich in fat, while one group was added to the food EGCG, the other - no.
It was found that mice from the first group gained weight to 45% more slowly than mice of the second group. Additional tests confirmed that the animals that received EGCG is absorbed less fat from food.
"It could be two things - says Joshua Lambert, associate professor in the sphere of food science. - First, EGCG reduces the absorption of fat, and secondly - it enhances the ability to use fat." At the same time, EGCG does not affect the appetite of the subjects.
To obtain such a number of EGCG, which we gave the mice in the experiment, a person should drink 10 cups of green tea a day, says Lambert, but even a few cups, he said, already can be beneficial.
Oct 3, 2011
Tobacco Smoke
Forty years ago, tobacco companies knew of the radioactive particles in tobacco smoke.
Investigation published by the University of California study shows that the major tobacco companies knew of the radioactive and carcinogenic components of cigarettes long before these data were presented.
According to documents the owners of the tobacco companies knew of the radioactive properties of tobacco smoke since at least 1959. Tobacco manufacturers are not only long been aware of the consequences of this cancer, "supplements", but even have the appropriate investigations.
Tobacco smoke contains alpha particles, the influence of which on the development of cancer has been proved in 1920. In those years, fluorescent dye, which included the same alpha-particles that are present in tobacco smoke, was used for application to clock surfaces. Very quickly, this led to a high incidence of cancer among workers watch factories. However, tobacco companies have begun to take measures to reduce radioactivity in cigarette smoke only since 1980.
Sep 26, 2011
Cholesterol and Cancer Cells
Study by researchers at Ohio State University showed that some cancers (for example, breast and prostate) are dependent on hormones, but tumors in the brain are fed by LDL cholesterol (often called 'bad cholesterol'). RBC with reference to the Telegraph reports that the discovery by American scientists to help in the development of drugs capable of stopping tumor growth.
In a study published in the journal Cancer Discovery, the authors write that up to 90% of glioblastomas (the most common and aggressive form of brain tumor) are so-called hyperactive signaling pathway for cholesterol. This means that their cells are programmed on the uptake of LDL cholesterol, which causes them to grow. "Our work shows that the growth of tumor cells and their survival depends on huge amounts of cholesterol, and we believe that by depriving cells of cholesterol by pharmacological we will develop a new strategy for the treatment of glioblastoma," - said the study's author of the Universal Centre of cancer therapy (Comprehensive Cancer Center) at the University of Dividing Guo. In turn, his colleague added: "This mechanism allows to destroy tumor cells without significant toxicity." Assumptions were confirmed by specialists in laboratory studies on the example of human cells and brain cancer in animal experiments.
It should be noted that multiforme glioblastoma constitue up to 52% of primary brain tumors and up to 20% of all intracranial tumors. Annually, it affects the 5000 Brits, 3600 of them die. Currently, the treatment method used chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. However, even complete surgical removal of the tumor and the further use of drugs does not provide a significant increase in patient life expectancy, which is 8-10 months after diagnosis.
Sep 19, 2011
HIV VS Cancer
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania decided to use a deadly disease against another. To do this, they genetically altered HIV, in order to reprogram the immune system of cancer patients and make it attack the cancer cells, says Discovery News.
Preliminary testing showed: this approach helped to kill cancer in the body of two patients and weaken in the third. All of them were initially diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. According to experts, the technology can be adapted to treat other cancers, especially those that are difficult to treat, such as pancreatic, ovarian, and mesothelioma.
Thus, the essence of the approach is as follows: first the doctors evict person's blood through a special machine to remove T cells, but returning the blood to the body. These cells are infected with HIV changed form. They are introduced the genes that cause the recognition and attack specific cancer type, the set and living in the body for months.
Already modified T cells carry a so-called chimeric antigen receptors - proteins that enable them to recognize and kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy, in turn, kills the patient any remaining T cells, in order to not disturb the new one - modified - to get distributed.
In an interview with The New York Times the study participant Carl Jung said that it makes the human organism a kind of bioreactor. In the following weeks after treatment, the patient may experience the increase the temperature, chills, fever, low blood pressure and other symptoms of the flu. They are caused by compounds of cytokines that are generated by T-cells. These are signs of cancer suppression.
Sep 12, 2011
Stomach Cancer Is Caused By Bacteria
Helicobacter pylori - a bacterium that seems to be fairly well studied by modern medicine. Medicine has discovered it in 1983 and since then scientists have already managed to establish its ability to cause stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer. However, a recent University of Zurich was made an unexpected discovery - it turns out, getting on the wall of the gastric mucosa, Helicobacter pylori breaks the DNA structure of cells, and thereby, it "prepares" them to malignant transformation.
Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract by the World Health Organization statistics is the third most common cancer disease in the world with a high level of fatalities. The new discovery as a promise, researchers can make some adjustments in these statistics. Scientists, among other things have established that Helicobacter pylori getting into the body, causing damage only after a certain period of time, and, the longer will be this time, the more disastrous are the consequences.
However, when using antibiotics to kill harmful bacteria within a few hours after ingestion, the result is likely to be reversible. "This study is extremely important for the global oncology practice, and although we can not determine the possibility of direct application of knowledge obtained by us, in the future, we can say that the development of anti-Helicobacter pylori will allow us to seriously change the statistics of cancer gastrointestinal tract "- says Professor Anne Müller from the University of Zurich.
Sep 5, 2011
Folic Acid During Pregnancy
The importance of maintaining a high level of consumption of folic acid by the body during pregnancy have been studied and scientifically proven in several studies. In particular, it was concluded that folic acid (vitamin B9) is having a very beneficial effect on intelligence and physical health of the child throughout his later life. However, the benefits of its use, apparently, has not been studied fully, and a recent study a group of scientists from the University of Toronto is an example.
It was found that children whose mothers took during pregnancy, vitamin B9, the risk of colon cancer is reduced by 64%. Folic acid is found in green vegetables, lentils and beans, and in this form it is better to use, but a great alternative and will serve as special agents on its basis - the researchers note. Vitamin B9 is traditionally considered to be indispensable for the formation and development of healthy blood and immune systems in a child at an early stage of development.
"As a result of clinical tests, we found that folic acid prevents disturbance of DNA and inhibits cell proliferation in the colon, in other words, the complex protecting the child's body while he is in the womb. "- Said Dr. Young-in Kim from St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, one of the authors of the study. In general, these findings are completely consistent with the results of previous studies conducted.
For example, in 2010 in an article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, cited the facts according to which the use of folic acid during pregnancy significantly improves brain function and motor function in the child during its subsequent development. And in 2006 it was discovered that besides acting on DNA, folic acid is a highly effective means of prevention, and in some cases even cancer have absolutely all categories of patients regardless of age.
Sep 1, 2011
Dairy Products Can Help In Depression
Yogurt-probiotic is designed to improve digestion. However, according to recent surveys, dairy products help in the treatment of depression, says Live Science.
It was found that intestinal bacteria directly affect the brain. This is demonstrated by the experiments with rodents. According to scientists, the same happens in humans. It should be said that earlier bowel disorders have been associated with related stress mental health problems. That is what prompted the researchers to further explore the issue.
Working with laboratory mice, the scientists fed them soup containing the bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1, which live in the digestive tract. As a result, these mice showed fewer signs of stress, anxiety and depression, and their body was fixed lower concentration of the stress hormone corticosterone, even though they were placed in stressful situations.
Says neuroscientist at University College Cork in Ireland, John ICA: "Generally, in the future yoghurts can replace the tablets, but the effectiveness will depend on the strain of bacteria." These considerations he shared in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Aug 29, 2011
Botox For Urinary Incontinence Treatment
American supervisors approved teh use of "Botox" as a means of urinary incontinence treatment. The decision was taken by the Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The use of this product on the basis of botulinum toxin is recommended for the treatment of urination disorders associated with neurological diseases and injuries. In particular, patients with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries often suffer from urinary incontinence.
To inject botulinum toxin is considered to enter directly into the bladder during the procedure of cystoscopy. Under the influence of drugs the body walls got relaxed and thus are terminated the involuntary contractions. The therapeutic effect of a single injection lasts for about nine months.
The effectiveness of a new treatment has been confirmed in clinical trials involving nearly 700 patients. The frequency of involuntary incontinence between the participants who were entered the botulinum toxin significantly decreased as compared with a control group of volunteers.
"Botox", produced by American company Allergan, is a purified toxin of bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. When injected into the muscle the substance causes their paralysis. In this regard, "Botox" is currently the most widely used in cosmetic medicine as a means for smoothing facial wrinkles. In addition, the United States authorized to use the drug for chronic migraines, muscle spasms, strabismus and excessive sweating.
Aug 22, 2011
Mental Illnesses
The Journal Abnormal Psychology Scientists publisged a report proving that it is necessary to introduce a gender perspective while prescribing medicines. Researchers from the University of Minnesota found that the difference between men and women is evident when it comes to mental disorders, writes The Times of India.
Thus, women are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety or depression, and men - anti-social behavior and the problems associated with addiction. In total, during the study questions the experts have analyzed the gender factor for several types of common mental disorders. By the way, women who suffer from anxiety, are more likely to hold onto the emotions, which threatens to loneliness, depression and alienation. On the other hand, men, by contrast, often shifted their emotions outwardly. Hence, there appeared the feeling of aggressiveness, impulsivity, inappropriate behavior.
The researchers demonstrated that it is a tendency to hold in themselves, or do not hold the emotions affect the gender statistics for many diseases. Total research director Nicholas R. Eaton and his colleagues analyzed data from 43,093 U.S. residents, collected in 2001-2002 by the National Institute of Health Research. Scholars were interested in the history of disease over a lifetime compared to the previous 12 months.
The experts concluded that doing treatment for women, it is necessary to focus on cognitive abilities and skills to carry hardships, to prevent the development of clinical depression or anxiety. In men, the same is put into practice therapy, based on a pay for performance prior deliberate action or aggressive impulses transfered into positive ones.
Aug 15, 2011
Salt Consumption
If to reduce the consumption of cooking salt, this will save millions from death due to stroke or cardiovascular disease, say British scientists from Warwick Medical School.
If you reduce salt consumption by only 3 grams, then this may prevent 8000 stroke deaths and 12 000 deaths from cardiovascular disease in Britain, says head of research Professor Francesco Kapuchio. In the U.S. this figure will be 120 000 deaths prevention of cardiovascular disease, 66 000 deaths from stroke each year. The health care system could save $ 24 billion.
The World Health Organization calls to reduce salt intake to less than 5 g in 2025. At the moment, people are eating too much salt, especially in Russia, where are popular salty foods.
The study was published this week in the British Medical Journal.
Jul 20, 2011
Chocolates As A Remedy For PMS
In the near future, women will be able to deal with PMS in an unusual way. Chocolates will aid in this, writes The Daily Mail. It is about truffles CocoPMS, containing anti-inflammatory compounds because of the blueberries and chaste tree. As a result, the consumption of sweets alleviate the pain.
Development of candy belongs to the American company Xan Confections. The price of these varies from 7.5 pounds to 30 pounds. Sweets can also be ordered online at the company's website.
The Company expects that its sweet will quickly become popular, in fact, according to statistics, every third woman suffers from PMS, which is felt two weeks before the menstruation. All because of jumps in the levels of progesterone. The severity of symptoms vary in each case. In addition CocoPMS, the company has a candy CocoHeart, useful for the heart, and CocoPreggers with folic acid and fatty acid omega-3 for expectant mothers. Some experts fear that the emergence of "good candy" in the market will become just an excuse for sweets.
Jul 11, 2011
Chemical Component For A New Painkillers Gen
According to BBC, the basis of investigation constituted the study of the effect of ultraviolet rays on human skin. Researchers from King's College London conducted an experiment on 10 volunteers. They subjected a small area of skin of these people to ultraviolet rays of the B spectrum influencing the skin's top layer and being the main cause of sunburn.
The researchers then took samples of damaged skin burns and examined for the presence of hundreds of molecules known to science associated with pain. As a result, they found that the samples present an unusually high level of molecules CXCL5.
Thus, for the first time a connection was established just for this molecule with pain due to ultraviolet radiation, said study leader Professor Steve McMahon from the Center for the Study of age-related diseases Wolfson.
Scientists hope that one day it will allow the discovery to develop drugs that help people with inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and cystitis and suffering from chronic pain.
Jul 4, 2011
The Web Service Google Health
Google will close the web service Google Health, designed for storing personal health information and to share such information with other users. This was reported in the official blog of Google.
The reason for the closure, as indicated by Google, is low popularity of the project. Google Health was designed for a wide audience, but in reality they enjoyed only a small group of technologically "advanced" patients of clinics and enthusiasts of a healthy lifestyle.
Service will be closed on January 1, 2012, but to keep personal information on Google Health servers users will be able to 1 January 2013.
Google Health was launched in May 2008. In one's "private office" users of the service could store personal medical information - for example, hospital records, information about medications taken, test results, the data on pressure and body temperature and so on. If desired, this information might be shared with other users.
Google also announced that due to low popularity will be closed another profile web service as well - Google PowerMeter. The project was started in 2009. Its task was to help users save money on electricity costs.
Jun 27, 2011
New Invention Of American Students
In June this year a group of graduate students from Johns Hopkins University reported development of a device to extract blood from the umbilical cord and placenta. James Waring Elias Bitar, Chris Chan, Matthew and Sean Means Monagl, who developed the installation, received the preliminary patents and have already formed a company TheraCord LLC to further develop this technology.
The new device, called «CBx System», can increase blood donations, and as a result obtain 50% more stem cells than the traditional method. Details are not set up the system, but noted that the device uses either mechanical effect, or a chemical solution.
"Our next step - said Chris Chan - is the optimization of the system, which will be possible to obtain an even greater number of stem cells. On the basis of previous experiments using the new methods, we believe that it is possible to get volume two to 5 times greater than existing methods".
The reason that a group of students interested in obtaining a larger number of stem cells is simple: in the U.S. use of cord blood stem cells already exceeds the number of transplants using bone marrow. Thus, patients who do not have stocks of stem cells in private bank to apply to state donor banks in hopes of finding a compatible donor material. However, with public donor banks operate only 180 maternity homes, which for the collection of umbilical cord blood cover about 10% of total births in the country and can not provide large amounts of donor stem cells. Today, when humanity realized the advantages of cell therapy and the benefits they receive from umbilical cord blood, such losses can not be justified.
Jun 14, 2011
Israeli Microneedles To Protect Against Flu
Israeli company NanoPass specializes in the development of miniature needles and devices for the painless injection of drugs.
An Israeli company has developed NanoPass micro-needles for vaccination against swine flu. The advantage of the full painless needle injections, as well as the ability to defend 3 times more people from the potentially deadly flu. Currently, the company developed a micro-needle for vaccination against swine influenza. Micro-needle like sting of a mosquito, penetrates into the skin using a slip. Studies show that using a microneedle one dose of vaccine needed for protection against influenza can be "stretched" into three doses, thereby increasing up to three times the number of vaccinated people. It is very important because Ministry of Health, the U.S. fears that the currently available stocks of drugs Tamiflu and Relenza may not have enough people, because in winter it is expected a large outbreak of influenza.
In randomized clinical trials manufacturer company NanoPass showed that by using microneedle technology, it can be reduced by 80% of the dose of the vaccine without compromising the immune response. These impressive results are attributed to the active response of powerful immune cells located in the skin. Moreover, the same effective immune response is expected after vaccination of any type of flu.
Company NanoPass, using technology intradermal delivery of drugs at the same time exploring the possibilities of this approach in other diseases such as diabetes. It is known that diabetics who receive insulin injections permanently, get used to the injections, but for people who are afraid of injections, and for children each injection of insulin is a nightmare. New microneedles are very subtle, so can help solve this problem.
Jun 6, 2011
Breakfasts High In Protein Increases Satiety
Breakfasts high in protein increases satiety and dulls the hunger during the day, say nutritionists at the University of Missouri, USA. Protein breakfast reduces the activity of the brain signals that control the motivation to consume food and a sense of reward when eaten delicious meals, thus allowing monitoring of eating behavior.
Breakfast of protein products may be the best way to regulate appetite and prevent overeating throughout the day, experts say.
According to Dr. Heather Leidy, all know the importance of a hearty breakfast for normal body function, but not all adhere to the principle to start the morning with a "normal eating". In a scientific experiment, clinicians reviewed the feeling of appetite, and hormonal markers in conjunction with the work of brain signals control motivation. It was noted that people who do not eat breakfast often have unhealthy habits of eating behavior, such as snack during the day chips and other "hazards", overeat, especially at night, and usually are overweight and often obese. Volunteers who, within three weeks received a 500-calorie breakfast containing grains and dairy products, which contain a normal amount of protein, often talked about how they were fed throughout the day and less likely to have experienced hunger. Neural signals in the brain, indicating the motivation for food consumption, were also reduced.
May 30, 2011
Fungus Extract
Extract of the fungus widely used in Asian cooking, may stop the growth of prostate cancer, say researchers from Australia. A compound called polysaccharide peptide (PSP), extracted from Turkish "caudate" fungus (tramety colored), as the researchers found, kills prostate cancer cells and prevents the formation of malignant tumors. These data gave the first experiments conducted on mice.
According to the scientist Patrick Ling, conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy is aimed at the destruction of certain cancer cells, but not on stem cells. However, that stem cells "trigger mechanism" for cancer and cause progression of the disease, said Dr. Ling from the Australian Research Centre for prostate cancer, which is located in Queensland.
"It is believed that stem cell cancer is one of the main reasons why some medications are not working," - he adds. "If you find this kind of treatment, which will focus on cancer stem cells, then it generally must be effective. We have found that an extract from tramety is very effective in terms of the impact of cancer stem cells."
In a series of experiments, involving nearly 20 mice carrying the gene for prostate cancer, scientists in the 20 weeks were fed half of them PSP, and the second part of the mice, this drug is not allowed. In all experimental animals that ate the extract, the cancer does not develop in the control group showed the development of this disease. "Our findings confirm that the PSP can be a powerful prophylactic against prostate cancer", said Dr. Ling.
Mushroom trameta is used since olden times in Asian cooking for soups, health-promoting, however, according to Dr. Ling is still no research conducted to suggest that a simple meal of this fungus may have the same effect as using a hood.
May 23, 2011
Grape Is Good For The Heart
Grapes have a variety of protective properties, that can protect the heart from diseases. Doctors have proved that daily consumption of grapes lowers blood pressure, improves heart function and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disorders.
Potential of grapes is the high content of phytochemicals - natural healthy antioxidants. In the experiments, laboratory rats is mixed into the regular diet of a portion of crushed dried grapes. Animals were given special foods with excess salt, to determine whether grapes can prevent the harmful effect of sodium. After 18 weeks, the rodents had lowered blood pressure, better heart function and blood circulation, fewer signs of heart muscle damage and reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress on the organ.
Doctors suggest that the grapes have a direct positive effect on cardiovascular function due to either flavonoids - antioxidants by direct exposure or through indirect action on the function of heart cells.
Flavonoids are found in grape peel, pulp, and seeds. In a natural way the chemicals in grapes reduce potentially dangerous molecular and cellular activity in the heart. However, cardiologists warne - the results of this study do not have to be interpreted correctly: patients with heart problems should not give up medicines and switch just to the grape. Nevertheless, tasty berry can be a good preventive measure against heart disease.
May 16, 2011
New Methods Of Breast Reconstruction
Reconstructive plastic surgery has now become a major focus of the Department of General Oncology, Samara Oncology Center. The indications for each type of reconstructive surgery are already worked out, which take into account individual characteristics of the patient, plan of cancer treatment and its personal preference.
The department introduced a method of breast reconstruction by moving its own tissues of anterior abdominal wall and shoulder area. Excellent results were obtained in the recovery of breast cancer by implementing artificial implants. Such operations are carried out either simultaneously with the implementation of tumor removal, and separately, after one or two years after completion of treatment.
Doctors are trying to constantly improve the methods of reconstructive procedures, they are actively involved in numerous oncology scientific conferences in Russia, Germany, Italy and other countries. Residents of department specialize in the workplace in the Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery European Institute of Oncology (Milan, Italy).
Not so long ago the only option for patients with breast cancer was to remove the entire breast with all the neighboring tissues. However, scientific discoveries over the past 20 years have changed the attitudes of oncologists on this problem. Moreover, there are new safe for the patient's surgery and subsequent treatment methods. These methods not only provide relief from the disease, but also restore the shape of the breast.
May 12, 2011
Silicone Injections and Health
More and more patients with complications from silicone injections in the last year, come for a visit to American doctors. A woman in America decided to make the procedure of silicone injections, that were made by the cosmetician. The next day after the procedure 43-year-old woman died from a silicone embolism.
Representatives of the Ministry of Health believe that this case can not be isolated, since they themselves beauticians not reported to the authorities about health problems of their patients because of the ban on such operations, and the silicone is not detected by X-ray or CT scan, only biopsy helps in this case.
Despite the danger of such a procedure, the demand for silicone injections is not reduced: it is much cheaper than Botox or collagen injections. The International Herald Tribune reports that the silicone can be used in cosmetic and plastic surgery only in very rare cases, such as implants. Any introduction of liquid silicone into the body can be life-threatening. When injected into the vein, silicone enters the blood, which inevitably leads to death. In addition, subcutaneous injection of silicone can cause allergic reactions, and immune system disorders and mutilate the body and the face of the patient.
Following the information on deaths from silicone injections Food and Drug Administration began investigating the case. Inspectors began studying the black market silicone cosmetics and concluded that the most often to such a "cheap" procedure resort the Hispanic women and transvestites, who do not have enough money to afford expensive and safe procedures of the professionals. Typically, these injections are done at home, in hotel rooms or at "silicone party" in which the participants injected one another dangerous drug.
Doctors think they can avoid the unfortunate consequences if to make information campaigns among the public, talking about the fact that silicone injection is bought at online markets, but sometimes the scammers replace it with a cheaper substance - the castor and mineral oils, petroleum jelly and even transmission fluid for cars.
May 3, 2011
British Scientists Managed To Grow Teeth
A group of researchers headed by Professor Paul Sharpe, has developed a new technology for growing teeth. To this end, researchers have used stem cells, which were taken from the patient. Further, these cells were grown in laboratory conditions that guarantee their transformation into the desired form of the tooth, after which the cells are transplanted to the gum at a remote location. After several months a new one tooth grows on the place of a missing one. The entire operation takes place under local anesthesia.
This technique was tested on mice, but Paul Sharp sees no reason that could prevent grow teeth in humans. If the effectiveness of the technology will be approved in clinical trials, then people will no longer need to wear artificial crowns and undergo complex operations to implant metal pins in the jawbone.
A similar invention was made in August by researchers from Tokyo University of Science (Japan). They have successfully implanted bioengineered tissue in the jaws of mice from which the rodents had new teeth grown. This technique can be used to restore a variety of organs.
Apr 14, 2011
Causes Of Migraine
Migraine - this is the most common neurological disease in the world. Approximately 12-15% of the world's population suffers from this disease. In women, migraine is 2-3 times more often than men. The term "migraine" was proposed by the great Hippocrates in the V century BC (although, in ancient Greek, it looked a bit different - hemikrania - half of the skull). Subsequently, the French started to pronounce this word as a migraine, but its meaning remained the same: for most typical attack of migraine pain covers only half of the head. Migraine is often called the disease of great people. Suffered from migraine: Julius Caesar, Calvin, Linnaeus, Beethoven, Pascal, Marx, Heine, Nobel, Poe, Maupassant, Darwin, Wagner, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Nietzsche, Freud. Previously, when the cause of headache has not been sufficiently studied, migraine called all recurrent headaches on one side of the head.
Migraines can never lead to death, sooner or later, but at 40 - 60 years it disappeares completely. The only thing that will overshadow the patient for 30 or 50 years, it's painful bouts of headaches - migraine attacks.
Migraine is one of the most challenging medical problems, because there are too many different reasons that can cause the same result - a headache.
Heredity can be traced in the development of migraine: if both parents suffer from migraine their children are the risk in 60 to 90% cases, only mother - 72%, the father - 20%. In most people the disease begins in childhood or adolescence. The largest number of patients in the age group 35-45 years. The intensity and frequency of migraine attacks usually decreases with age (especially after 60 years) and in menopausal women. In persons older than 40 years of migraine begins very rare (about 5% of cases). Often the cause of headaches can be a viral infection. Some women have a headache occurs in periods coinciding with the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Headaches may occur due to increased pressure or allergic reaction in the sinuses of the head, the so-called sine headache.
A similar condition can cause stress. Sometimes a headache may signal a dangerous condition of blood vessels (aneurysm or blockage), or the beginning of a brain tumor.
Children's migraines may appear as a result of surge, such as watching television for long time or excessive passion for computers.
Apr 13, 2011
Headache Causes
There are many different causes of headaches. Headache can occur because of changes occurring in the brain, its membranes, blood vessels of the head, skull, its soft cover, as well as a variety of diseases that occur in other organs and systems. Headache may be a symptom of what that change in the human body.
Headache may be a manifestation of at least forty-five different diseases, failures and deviations in the body. If doctors find no pathology, the reason lies in the functional disorders, i.e. changes in normal operation of organs and systems. As a rule, they are caused by the displacement of elements of the bone system (usually due to injury) or internal organs (due to spasms of muscles and ligaments that these bodies are attached to the skeleton and are interconnected). Since the nerve endings that perceive pain are not uniformly distributed in the brain, the headache can be caused by several factors:
* Mechanical (direct impact of external factors or pathological focus with tension, displacement, compression, extension of intracranial structures) * Thermal (high temperature, direct hypothermia or overheating of the head), * Chemical (effects of endogenous and exogenous chemicals that reduce pain threshold, such as uremia, food poisoning and alcohol intoxication).
The largest part of the nerve endings in the soft tissues of the head (skin, muscle, etc.), the walls of the superficial cerebral arteries (eg occipital, frontal, temporal and superficial). The most sensitive area is the hard brain tunic. At the base of the brain vessels, as well as large branches of the artery are large part of the pain receptor zone inside the skull.
Apr 12, 2011
Gastritis Diet
For gastritis with reduced function of secretion (with low or normal acidity) it is recommended a diet of soups (cereals and vegetables) at various low-fat broth, lean meats (even fried, but without a solid crust), lean fish, all fresh and not too sour milk products, stale bread of different varieties, bread, vegetables and fruits - both cooked and raw, milk, eggs - raw and omelets, a variety of well-cooked cereal, fruit and vegetable juices, butter, tea, coffee, cocoa - with the water, sugar. Meals - at least 5 times a day, best of all - in the form of puree.
For gastritis with increased secretion of gastric function it is recommended the diet, which would neutralize the excessive release of hydrochloric acid. It is not recommended to eat fried food. Can be consumed milk, yogurt, yogurt, mild cheese, sour and fresh cheese, cream, cheese, yogurt, eggs, cook or steam, or boil, lean fish and meat to boil. Vegetables and herbs to use a well-boiled or mashed, raw can be consumed only lettuce, onion, dill. Eat dry bread or crackers, not butter biscuits. From meat products - dietary sausage, lean bacon and ham. Also are allowed smoked, but lean fish. Soups in case of gastritis with high acidity are cooked on any low-fat broth (no cubes!) with vegetables or cereals. Thin or finely chopped noodles are allowed to use. Cereals - from all sorts of large, well-cooked. From fat may use butter, ghee and vegetable oils (sunflower, olive). Sauces should not be used except for those cooked on the meat or fish broth. You can drink tea, cocoa and coffee.
It is prohibited to A>nsume: alcohol - in full, or full-flavored fresh-baked pastries, bread, hard cheeses, rye bread, legumes (peas, beans, lentils), thick noodles, fried eggs, fatty meats and / or fish, canned food, spices, fried potatoes and fried potatoes, cabbage, turnips, radishes, onions, fruit with peel, especially grapes, bacon, oily cream, candy, chocolate, all acute.
It also required sticking to a diet of 5 meals per day in small portions.
Apr 11, 2011
Tissue Transplantation
Three independent teams of doctors warn about the human organ transplantation, during which it was managed to avoid rejection of donor tissue with almost no use of drugs that suppress the immune system. This succeeded due to technology of "training" the immune system, but as it turned out - do not know yet, and the authors of innovation. To these 3 studies related to the rejection of donor organs, are devoted the articles published in open access in the journal The New England Journal of Medicine. And although it is a positive experience obtained in only a few patients, researchers hope that new development will help thousands of people around the world to escape from a long and severe course of treatment immediately following an organ transplant. The main problem after any transplant is the rejection of a transplanted organ recipient's immune system. To avoid this are used immuno-suppressive drugs, the need for the introduction of which is preserved in all patients till the end of life. Even those who were transplanted organs from the closest relatives. However, the use of immuno-suppressive drugs often leads to death of the patient from any other disease, such as pneumonia. Previous work of other scientists have shown that mice and monkeys can live without expensive treatment, if they enter into blood stem cells of blood donor organ. Bone marrow stem cells form white blood cells (leukocytes), including B-cells and T-cells. T-cells form the body's immune response (they are able to recognize alien target), while B-cells produce antibodies. Rejection of transplanted organs and tissues occurs due to the fact that the immune system founds a "stranger" and begins to attack the donor organ and, eventually, breaks its job. Biologists have discovered that in the case of transplant patient pluripotent stem cell donor, resulting from these T-lymphocytes and B-cells are embedded in the immune system of the recipient and the transplanted organ by the body begins to be perceived as "part of one own's." Recent studies have been conducted on a similar principle.
Apr 8, 2011
Lovers Of Good Food Do Not Get Fat
It is possible to predict how many overweight people pick up for the year due to the genes. As shown by scientists, the obesity is the destiny of those who are unable to enjoy food. Quality determines the number of dopamine receptors to form D2, which is responsible for gene Taq1. People who know how to get more fun if you do not live longer, then certainly "more" - in terms of number of vivid impressions. And if the ways in which this number is reached, do not run counter to "teaching about healthy living," then we can expect a real life extension. This approach has been linked to one of the greatest challenges of modern humanity - adiposity. As shown by Eric Stice and his colleagues at the University of Texas, a weakening in the brain reward system is fraught with obesity. People who get less satisfaction from food, get fat faster. Probably, a lot of products they compensate less for them - its quality. Moreover, to find out to what extent the reward system is weakened, you do not even get into the brain. It suffices to take any cell of the body, separated from her DNA and see how the gene variant Taq1 has her master. This gene encodes a receptor to form dopamine D2, and that their lack of communication scholars link the pleasure of eating and obesity. According to modern concepts, our brain is designed in such a way that most enjoyable activities are reflected in the "promotion system" - a complex interacting structures, "communicate" with each other mainly by the neurotransmitter dopamine. For example, food intake, the majority of drugs, alcohol, moral or sexual satisfaction associated with increased formation of dopamine. Until recently, dopamine was the only "mediator of joy", while significantly related to release of the activation of certain brain areas could not. However, thanks to functional magnetic resonance imaging, detecting changes in blood flow and allowing on-screen imager to observe activation of the central nervous system, was identified itself "reward system", a key role is played by the dorsal (posterior) part of the striatum. As the main stimulus in the experiment Stice has chosen ordinary chocolate shake. The publication in Science, scientists did not specify what was initially - to recruit volunteers or choose a cocktail, but the two matched groups of students 18-22 years old schoolgirls and 14-18 is the best fit to the experimental scheme. Men milkshakes lure did not, although the obesity problem for them is no less acute. Those girls who got less pleasure from the cocktail (according to an objective imaging), for the following year got more pounds.
Apr 7, 2011
Children Allergy
American scientists have come to a paradoxial conclusion: children whose parents are not obsessed with hygiene and sanitation, do not suffer from allergies. Allergy has long been a scourge of the developed countries. Despite all the measures taken to combat it, the number of allergy sufferers in the world is constantly increasing. So, according to the Organization by patients allergic UK, some form of allergy suffers every third inhabitant of the country over the last decade the number of allergy sufferers it has tripled. The reasons for this phenomenon are still unclear. One of the most popular hypothesis, hygienic, says that the growing number of allergic diseases in developed countries is caused by frequent hygiene procedures. However, no evidence was still given. The first 'robin' was a study conducted by the National Center for Environmental Health in Munich. German scientists have noticed a surprising fact: children who are born with contact with domestic dogs are much less likely to suffer from allergies. What is the likelihood of their allergy reduced by 50%, confirmed the observation of three thousand children from birth until they reach the age of 6. Scientists have suggested that this is due to early contact of child's immune system with a variety of allergens that enter the house on their paws and pet hair. In the spring of 2010, the contribution to the study of allergy was made by U.S. researchers from the Institute of Medicine, University of California at San Diego (USA). They concluded that the widespread negative staphylococci can block inflammation, preventing the body to react very strongly to stimuli. This is achieved by the fact that these bacteria produce molecules of lipoteichoic acid, which acts on the main skin cells - keratinocytes, controlling their behavior and preventing an excessive immune response. Thus, contact with bacteria in early childhood prevents from allergies of different kinds in the future. "Our main achievement is that we were able to provide a molecular explanation of the hygiene hypothesis and discovered previously unknown elements of wound healing. Now we can assume an established fact that bacteria living in the epithelium, can help prevent inflammation in trauma. They reduce the overactive immune response to cuts and scratches, because of which the skin becomes swollen. This may be possible to develop new approaches to treatment of diseases associated with skin inflammation. So far this has not happened, I can advise the following: stop washing children every day. Too clean skin is less able to regeneration, in addition, it provokes the allergy ", - said the lead researcher, Professor Richard Gell.
Apr 6, 2011
A Genetic Cure For AIDS
American pharmacists have created and tested a genetic cure for HIV: the virus is not dead, but ceased to multiply. Russian virologists believe that this method will help to completely get rid of AIDS. Charles Preston Neef and his colleagues at the University of Colorado synthesized siRNA, which block the expression of genes responsible for viral replication. Then they created a hybrid of "contraceptive" siRNA and aptamers to the viral protein Bal. We can say the scientists attached to the antiviral molecule "homing warhead," which identifies HIV and hands "viral contraceptive" through the protein membrane. Efficiency of molecular hybrid were tested in experiments by biologists in vitro and in transgenic mice that have human immune system (the genotype of RAG - hu). That is, virologists were studying the effectiveness of the drug relative to human rather than simian immunodeficiency of monkeys. Biologists have treated animals with a hybrid, and individual components - aptameroa and siRNA. Researchers compared the results with controls - uninfected and infected animals, with those who did not receive treatment. It was found that the hybrid molecule inhibits immunodeficiency virus better than others. Depending on the intensity of therapy, a normal level of lymphocytes (immune cells that die due to HIV) was stored for 3-9 weeks. The concentration of viral RNA in the blood dropped to undetectable levels for more than 3 weeks. Scientists noticed that the hybrid non-toxic molecule also causes mutations in the virus: HIV is trying to adjust to the medication. However, among the mutations do not have any dominant. This means that the virus can not learn to ignore the medication too quickly. "The molecule is not toxic, but it must be yet another test. We hope that patients with persistent or painful sensitivity to HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) will have a chance not to die in the coming years," - noted the researchers. It is known that patients with AIDS kills even the "native" opportunistic organisms - those that are present in healthy human microflora. Scientists have not yet won HIV because of high variability (mutagenicity) of viral genetic material. It is true that pharmacologists have learned to tame the virus with highly active antiretroviral therapy. With regular use of medication and proper nutrition infected people do not lose efficiency and can fully live about 10 years. However, this therapy in the treatment loses effectiveness - the patient develops resistance to drugs. And the side effects are not pleasant one: from the uneven obesity (too thin legs and fat belly and neck), and the lesion of the internal organs and nervous system.
Apr 5, 2011
Infertility
Dr. Andrew Toledo, an expert on fertility from Emory University and associate professor in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, confirmed that the couples are using egg white as a vaginal lubricant to facilitate conception. "This is not some kind of magic, - says Dr. Toledo. - It is useful only as a lubricant for those couples who have a problem with dryness." He advises couples to use egg whites only for a few days a month when a woman can conceive. In the remaining days of the month they should use any lubricants which are preferred.
Why egg white? Dr. Toledo said that he was intrigued by the results of research in Canada, which showed that the egg white has the least impact on the mobility and survival of sperm.
"This is reasonable, - he said. - Egg white - is a pure protein and most of the sperm by nature is a pure protein. The sperm does not feel good in the media the structure of which is different from it.
Six, seven or eight couples who have told me that they need some lubrication, it has helped - he said. - A few couples who tried it, managed to conceive the child. But do not use egg white if you are allergic to eggs, - says Dr. Toledo. - Remove the egg from the refrigerator in advance so it was not cold, and separate the white from the yolk. There is no difference if you smear this stuff at the head of the penis or vagina".
Quit smoking.
Cigarettes can affect fertility of both men and women. Examination of men showed that smokers were significantly more likely than nonsmokers, less than normal sperm count and lower sperm motility. Survey of 17,032 women, conducted in England showed that the more cigarettes a woman smoked per day, it is less likely that she is fertile. The researchers suggest that smoking may alter hormone levels in women.
Apr 4, 2011
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate. It can be acute or chronic, infectious or noninfectious. In this regard, are distinguished acute prostatitis, chronic infectious prostatitis and chronic non-infectious prostatitis. If the patient has symptoms of prostatitis (especially pain in the perineum), but there are no signs of inflammation of the prostate, such condition is called pelvic pain syndrome.
How prevalent is prostatitis?
According to the most accurate statistical studies of chronic prostatitis is suffering from 3 to 12% of men. Symptoms that are characteristic to prostatitis have a much larger number of people. However, they suffer from other diseases (hemorrhoids, rectal fissure, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, BPH, urethritis, etc.).
How does the disease manifest?
Prostatitis can develop suddenly as an acute inflammatory disease with all the relevant symptoms. In this case, the patient will have fever, body temperature 38-39 ° C, sharp pains in the perineum, groin, with the pubis, anus, painful urination and defecation.
However, significantly more likely to develop prostate in chronic form, without disturbing the man too much. In this case, all these only the symptoms will be present to a much lesser extent, sometimes completely without attracting attention. Body temperature rarely rises to 37 ° C, occasionally marked pain or discomfort in the perineum, discomfort during urination and defecation, during which a minor may experience discharge from the urethra - one of the most characteristic symptoms of chronic prostatitis.
Part of the prostate develops as a complication of chronic infectious diseases, sexually transmitted - chlamydia, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis or another. In this case, the disease may occur only very minor changes - discomfort during urination become a little harder, they are joined by a slight pain in the perineum, discharge from the urethra during bowel movements. Changes already are not too bright clinical disease may be so insignificant that patients do not pay any attention to them.
After some time, prostatitis, as a rule, men have problems with erection. This is due to the involvement in inflammation of the nerves responsible for erectile function, which passes through the prostate gland. Chronic prostatitis is a very negative impact on the general state of health of man, making him extremely irritable and grumble, unhappy and anxious. Often it occurs so often that the doctors say that for the successful treatment of prostatitis should be not only a good urologist and a psychologist.
Apr 1, 2011
Causes of obesity
Obesity (adipositas) - is a disease characterized by excess fat in the subcutaneous tissue and other tissues of the body, as well as exceeding the normal (ideal) body weight by 20% and more.
Causes of obesity:
Obesity is a very complex problem because it has more causes than effective means to fight.
* The most common cause of obesity - is excess of calorie food dominated the evening feeding with low physical activity. Calculations show that it is enough t receive one "extra", i.e. not obstructed by energy consumption, a sandwich with cheese or a glass of milk a day to increase body weighy by 10 kg in 10 years. Usually the family are all overweight. * Attacks of gluttony (namely seizures) occurring 2 times a week, after which remains the non-recognition of such a behavior, but there is no way to cope with them - a sign of nervous. This is not a disease but rather a disorder of behavior that can be corrected by psychotherapy. * Improper diet, which may be associated with both lack of knowledge of what to eat to get better, and with the financial capacity (diet products such as vegetables and fruits in winter, not everyone can afford). * Heredity. * Motionless way of life when there is a the tendency to eat well. * The onset of obesity in women is often associated with the period of lactation or more often with the onset of menopause.
Diet alone is rarely effective for weight loss - only if you have only a slight excess body weight or simply want to adjust the shape. Yes, someone will correct diet, but most of all - just combine it with exercise. Sometimes it takes a weight loss program that includes not only diet and exercise, and psychotherapy. And some patients can not do without drugs or surgery. Only an integrated approach - the key to solving the obesity problem.
Mar 31, 2011
Chronic Lack Of Sleep Leads To Hypertension
Women who sleep less than five hours at night have an increased risk of developing hypertension, according to 'Hypertension' journal. This conclusion was made by British scientists at Warwick University, who conducted a study involving nearly 6,600 people. It turned out that the woman who sleep less than5 hours a day, suffered from high blood pressure are twice as likely than those who slept seven or more hours. In men this pattern was not found, the researchers reported. It is known that hypertension, which refers to elevated blood pressure more than 140/90 mm Hg, is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. "We found that lack of sleep not only increases the risk of hypertension, but also causes heart attacks and strokes," - said the head of research professor Francesco Cappuccio. He also noted that in earlier studies, the lack of sleep has been called a risk factor for obesity and diabetes. Meanwhile, the important role played not only the duration of sleep, but also the wake-up time, say Japanese scientists. According to research conducted by specialists in several universities and hospitals of Kyoto, the so-called "larks" are at increased risk of hypertension and heart attack, according to Bloomberg. After analyzing the data of 3,017 people aged 23 to 90 years, scientists have concluded that even a morning exercise cannot serve as a basis for early wake-up. According to scientists, people standing up before 5 am, 1.7 times more likely to get sick hypertension and 2 times more often - atherosclerosis, compared with those who get up two or three hours later. "Our results refute the widespread view that 'early risers' have more robust health," - said the head of research Maiuko Kadono at the Congress of the World Federation of Sleep Research and Sleep Medicine, recently finished in Australia.
Mar 30, 2011
Key Myths About Antibiotics
According to statistics, antibiotics are being misused in almost half cases, wrotes "Science and Life." One of the most common fallacies is the belief that the duration of a course of antibiotics should be 10-14 days. In fact, the continuance of antibiotic treatment before the complete disappearance of symptoms is not necessary, and often to achieve the efeects are sufficient short courses and even a single dose of medications. The second misconception concerns the need to change medications every 5-7 days to prevent development of drug resistance in microbes. However, the replacement of an effective drug to others does not reduce but, on the contrary, increases the risk. If, however, the patient's condition does not improve in the first 2-3 days, the medication should be changed immediately. Scientists believe that the opinion of the toxicity and inhibitory effect of antibiotics on immunity is wrong, as well. Older antimicrobial agents actually possess these undesirable properties, but now medications that suppress the immune system, have not yet sorted out the stage of preclinical research. However, some antibiotics, such as macrolides, do not inhibit but even stimulate the immune system. In this connection, experts do not recommend that antimicrobial therapy should be accompanied by immunomodulators and allergy medications, but antifungal agents are advised to use only in patients with weakened immune systems - people living with HIV or cancer. Are greatly exaggerated also the belief of such a side effect of antibiotics as disbacteriosis (candidosis). In most cases, experts say that the change in the combination of intestinal microflora caused by antimicrobials is not clinically manifested, does not require a special correction and passes off independently. If the medication is accompanied by side effects such as diarrhea, it is better to change the drug, however, medications that restore microflora are not required in this case. Many doctors believe that the most effective way is to introduct antibiotics directly into the focus of infection. However, most modern drugs reach the required concentrations in infected tissue and in case of intravenous injection. In addition, when used topically it is difficult to calculate the optimal dose, that is why it is justified only when there are skin infections, conjunctivitis, vaginosis and external otitis. Struggle with similar misconceptions among clinicians can significantly improve the quality and safety of antimicrobial therapy, say scientists.
Mar 29, 2011
Manage Your Stress With...Olive Oil
Every year, our body is exposed to seasonal stress. Every time we need to restructure not only psychologically but also physically. In this regard, the most severe of all is the winter time: a decrease in temperature, frequent colds, lack of light and lack of oxygen leads to the fact that the body runs out and we fall into seasonal depression. But most importantly, it was winter, the body is experiencing an acute shortage of vitamins. Lack of ultraviolet radiation in winter leads to a decrease of vitamin D, regulates calcium metabolism, and therefore suffer the most hair and skin. Increased susceptibility to infectious diseases associated with shortage of vitamin C, and the dark circles under eyes, headaches and drowsiness that are so characteristic for the winter season, may be associated with a lack of vitamin K. However, a pantry of all vital substances to the human body is in... olive oil. Olive oil - is a wonderful source of healthy fats and now the majority of the inhabitants of developed countries consuming too much bad, saturated fat, which is fraught with development of obesity, gallstones and other metabolic disorders. To avoid these serious problems dieticians and doctors recommend eating an alternative to animal fats - vegetable oils, particularly olive oil. Miraculous effects of olives and oils, manufactured from them became legendary, the virgin olive oil is called "liquid gold", and study its properties identified in the special science. Thus, the use of olives in part provides the recommended daily allowance of fiber, which is in 1930 estimated that 25 g olives (or 7 pieces) provide the human body with approximately 0.28 g of sodium. Also, they contain a certain amount of minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus. Olives also contain iodine. In the pulp of olives to eat sugar, protein, pectin, vitamins A, C and carotene. They are well affect the digestive tract and liver, strengthen the skeleton. Fruits and olive oil made from them, promote healing of ulcers, wounds, bruises, insect bites. In the olive oil also contain the necessary human vitamins A, E, D, K, which reinforce the bone, muscle, and intestinal wall, fight free radicals, preventing the aging processes. It consists of useful fatty acids. And namely monounsaturated: polyunsaturated and oleic: linoleic and linolenic. Olive oil has: • choleretic effect and helps relieve the body after a holiday binge eating; • improves digestion (positively affecting the liver, stomach, intestine); • prevents the development of diabetes and obesity; • helps to normalize blood pressure; • lowers cholesterol and, hence, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, angina, heart attack; • provides a means for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (such as saves from thrombosis).
Mar 28, 2011
Smoking Leads To Alcoholism
Lovers of alcohol probably noticed that almost after every drunk glasses of wine, beer or a glass of vodka the body 'askes' for a dose of nicotine. It turns out that even non-smokers, in general, people are starting another alcoholic "marathon", lend themselves to the common temptation and take the cigarettes, when in a sober state would never allow. However, few of us know what actually takes place the feedback: most smokers are not only degrade intellectually, but also are at risk of being addicted to alcohol. What explains this "neighborhood" of these two bad habits, whose combination is truly destructive to the human body? Is it possible for this phenomenon lie some chemical processes occurring in the brain? These are the questions that the American scientists from the University of Washington Medical School tried to answer, headed by Richard Gruchy, they and found that the brains of smokers are most susceptible to alcohol. As a result of large-scale survey in which data were collected from 75 thousand people, it was found that the risk of being dominated by "green dragon" for the fans to smoke was half times higher than for nonsmokers. And what is the worst thing - this is most clearly exemplified in the teens. For example, a survey of children aged 15 to 17 years, who a month earlier have drunk at least eight servings of alcohol, showed: 20% of the respondents were smokers being already drunk, whereas among non-smokers, the figure constitued only 5%. "These data suggest that smokers are more responsive to alcohol - the researchers explain. - It is evident that the nicotine makes the adolescent brain more receptive to other addictions." According to scientists, an explanation of this phenomenon is simple enough: the drugs (and nicotine is certainly one of them) act on the pleasure center in the brain, and if the department is already under the influence of one drug, then on the impact of any other drug it will react much more strongly. "The teenage is that period of life when other people more prone to all kinds of dependencies" - sums up Richard Gruch. So cigarettes and alcohol, he said, is the most pernicious for young people.
Mar 25, 2011
Cancer And Red Wine
Scientists were able to pick up a dose of resveratrol - a natural antioxidant of red wine, which in the course of radiation therapy helps to protect healthy cells, but also weakens the protection of cancer. It is better to drink grape juice. Oncology has always been open to herbal medicines, ranging from photodynamic therapy to the powerful poisons, not recommended by doctors, even under the most severe cases. However, not all of them have selective action on tumor cells, in contrast to new drugs of Rochester Medical Center. They have become known not only the medical community resveratrol antioxidant. The last time was shown his role in an experimental treatment for stroke and diabetes, and researchers have even claimed to have found a new drug that can cope with many diseases of aging, like heart attacks, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. At this time a group of diseases amenable to this "panacea", now is supplemented by pancreatic cancer. Effect of antioxidant from grape peel is achieved through the action of resveratrol on the mitochondria - the power stations of every cell in our body. As the project manager Paul Okuneff pointed out, in combination with resveratrol prior admission with conventional radiotherapy is achieved the sinergetic effect, and cancer cells trigger apoptosis. The oncologists were struggling with this task from the very opening of programmed cell death. According to the oncologist, although the consumption of red wine during radiation or chemotherapy to date has not been thoroughly studied, it is not contraindicated. Now the exception of wine from the daily diet is at the discretion of doctors, any recommendations on this occasion not. However, if the patient is already taking a small amount of wine, the majority of oncologists would not object this. The situation with antioxidants in cancer is controversial, because, besides the protection of healthy tissue, they can also affect the tumor. Okuneff believes that this is unlikely and in the body even develops an opposite situation.
Mar 24, 2011
First Artificial Blood Vessels
Yet nothing is known about how much money patients have to spend to grow an additional vessel. California-based company Cytograft Tissue Engineering reports about the fact that they managed to create the world's first working blood vessels from cells of patients who require hemodialysis. The new technology will reduce the risk of rejection of artificial blood vessels. Hemodialysis (or blood purification) is needed for patients with renal insufficiency. Blood is redirected to the artificial blood vessels in the machine, which runs it through a series of filters and returns the patient's body. Since the procedure should be carried out quite often, doctors try to accelerate the process as much as possible. To do this, patients are implanted in the hand a small blood vessel (shunt) that sits between the artery and vein. Through it it is possible to select and return blood in the human body. Usually for this purpose doctors try to take a piece of vein of the patient (to avoid further rejection of the immune system). However, often these shunts are deteriorating rapidly, and they must be replaced with plastic or other synthetic vessels. Such an "option" may cause rejection or problems with blood flow in the lower vessels. Hence, a more natural shunt, decided the specialists under the leadership of Todd McAllister from Cytograft Tissue Engineering, and tried to create a vessel from the donor cells. Scientists have developed the following scheme for cultivation vessels: first they collect the fibroblasts from the patient's skin and grow from them a leaf, and then it is rolled into a tube, allowing the collagen and elastin to create an interpenetrating structure. The problem is that the fibroblasts can be transformed into smooth muscle cells and block the vessel. To avoid this, experts remove fibroblasts, leaving only the protein skeleton. Then the outer surface of the formed tube is covered by new fibroblasts (they can not get into the inner cavity of the future of the vessel). At the last stage of the inner tube lining endothelial cells of the patient, which provide unobstructed blood flow inside the new vessel. Team of McAllister received transplanted blood vessels of ten patients (in Argentina and Poland).
Mar 23, 2011
Coffee Helps With Alzheimer's Disease
Neuroscientists have found that caffeine can reduce the size of plaques that are formed in case of Alzheimer's disease on nerve cells and disrupts the brain's functioning. The discovery was made by scientists from the University of South Florida in the course of experiments on genetically modified mice. Studying the value of caffeine in the treatment of severe disease, the researchers were able not only to confirm pre-existing speculations about the beneficial role of coffee, but also to prove that the effect of the drink is associated including the changes at the level of nerve cells. In their work, American neuroscientists relied on the findings of their Portuguese colleagues, claiming that coffee drinkers are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. However, the reason for such a correlation in human studies were difficult to determine. Scientists emphasize: the agreed change of two variables (for example, increasing meat consumption and risk of gastric cancer) is valuable as a general observation to identify the most vulnerable groups. But how the disease develop and how it can be treated, such coincidences do not mean anything. To find out exactly how caffeine affects the brain in Alzheimer's disease, scientists have drawn genetically modified mice. Brains of animals received caffeine, then they were examined under a microscope and compared with brains of animals in the control group not receiving caffeine. Rodents received caffeine in drinking water and in amounts that researchers' calculations, and in terms of human standards, were two large cups of coffee per day. After two months of such "therapy" mice showed better compared with the control group results for orientation in the labirynth and remembering, and the number of plaques in their neurons decreased by half! This positive result gave scientists a hope. According to Gary Arendasha, a neuroscientist and one of the authors of the study, the dose of caffeine tested on mice for most people is harmless. With the caution coffee in such quantities should be consumed by people with high blood pressure and pregnant women.
Mar 22, 2011
A Certain Enzyme Can Prevent Premature Aging
Recently, scientists have demonstrated rejuvenation of the whole body of experimental mice, which have suffered from premature aging. Scientists have been able to do this by activating certain enzymes in the cell tissues. According to the magazine Nature, in this paper was investigated the effect of blocking of the enzyme telomerase, responsible for cell aging in humans.
Ronald De Pino, who is the head of a group of scientists, said that forced the launch of the enzyme in cells, tissues can be used to combat human diseases that are associated with premature or natural aging. The results showed that the shortening of this enzyme in mice is very rapid. Inclusion of the enzyme telomerase in mice that have reached maturity, makes it possible to draw a lot of the trend. For example, to regain reproductive function, and restore bodies to a degenerative condition (intestine, liver, etc.). Thus, activation of this enzyme can be used for the treatment of rare diseases in humans.
Mar 21, 2011
Cardiac Failure
For any elderly people suffering from heart failure medications do not help. Researchers from the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles came to the conclusion that modern drugs that are being prescribed for older people to treat diastolic heart failure are totally ineffective.
Recently, the U.S. tendency to aging of the nation, has a consequence that more and more elderly people are in need of treatment for heart diseases. Despite this, doctors do not still known much about the effect that such treatment has on the body of people in old age. "We do not have a lot of information about heart failure in patients older 80 years old," - said study leader Dr. Ernst R. Schwarz, who is the head of the cardiology program assistance and one of the leaders of a heart transplant program in Sedars Sinai (Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute).
The scientists studied elderly people with diastolic dysfunction. In the presence of such pathology systolic function normally. "This means that the heart muscle is reduced in these patients without deviating from the norm, the opposite process is broken," - explained Dr. Schwartz.
Diastolic dysfunction is fairly common disease, occurring in 50% of all the "heart" of patients. Basically, elderly and women suffer from them. But, despite this prevalence, doctors are still experiencing serious difficulties as to the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
"We do not know how to treat such patients. The fact that the techniques used today are only suitable for the treatment of systolic dysfunction "- the doctor says. "There are some definite diastolic dysfunction treatments, that are not yet available.
In the survey observations were involved 142 patients aged over 87 years. In the 5 years that the staff needed a center for studying the problem, 69% of the patients died. The researchers concluded that none of the commonly prescribed drugs - including statins, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, nitrates and digoxin - does not produce tangible results: die as patients taking these drugs, so and those without them. "These findings are relevant, at least for patients older than 80 years" - said Schwartz.
Dr. Byron Lee, a cardiologist and assistant professor of medicine at University of California, San Francisco, was skeptical of the results obtained from the research. "I would avoid such categorical statements", said Dr. Lee. "After all, it was a controlled study. I mean, that patients taking cardiovascular drugs may have been much weaker than the other patients. But drugs could at least affect the fact that they lived as much under investigation, have not taken any drugs. "
Nevertheless, Dr. Schwartz has suggested that patients can go lower doses of cardiac drugs. In any case, he said, to develop new methods of treatment of diastolic dysfunction requires further study.
"We really have no information on how to better treat these patients and how to treat them all. While we are just beginning our journey in trying to understand how the human body with age. Perhaps we should be more careful with certain kinds of medicines and their dosage. In future studies we will pay special attention to elderly patients, "- said Dr. Schwartz.
Mar 18, 2011
Erection Problems & The Risk Of Heart
Men with erection problems at 80% are more likely to suffer from heart disease than persons of the stronger sex, who do not complain about the potency. Such conclusions made by experts from the Clinic Mayo (USA) based on data from the recently completed study. According to scientists, men aged 40 to 49 years with symptoms of erectile dysfunction were twice as likely to suffer from heart disease.
The study, published in the February issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings, give grounds for doctors of patients suffering from erectile dysfunction to pay attention not only on the underlying disease, but also for possible future heart problems.
Researchers failed to find a connection between problems with impotence and heart disease. Some scientists have suggested that erectile dysfunction, and atherosclerosis (chronic disease of certain types of arteries) are the same reasons. According to experts, formed in the arteries of deposits (atheromatous plaque) that narrow the lumen of blood vessels and cause atherosclerosis, may initially strike the arteries associated with sexual function. Other experts believe that over time, the arteries lose elasticity, and it primarily affects erection, and later on the heart.
The study involved 1,402 men aged 40 years and above residing in Olmsted County (Minnesota). The patients were monitored for 10 years, starting in 1996. At the beginning of observations, none of the subjects had complained of heart problems.
During observations revealed that with age, the percentage suffering from erectile problems increased. Of men aged 40-49 years, only 2.4 percent of the subjects complained of potency. Among patients 50-59 years have 5,6 percent complained of potency. In 60-69 years, the percentage of participants with erectile dysfunction has increased to 17 and after 70 years reached 38.8.
In men aged 50 and older, with symptoms of impotence number of complaints about problems with the heart was more than those who did not complain of erectile dysfunction. With men of 40-49 years this trend was less apparent.
Men aged 70 and over, erection problems were no longer unambiguous precursors of heart disease in the future.
According to experts, the experimental results can help detect diseases of the heart and blood vessels in the early stages, which would significantly increase the probability of their effective treatment.
Mar 17, 2011
Hypertension
The most significant event in the treatment of hypertension over the past half-century. In December 2009, the British cardiologist for the first time carried out an operation, that can cure the patient of hypertension. The first who was operated on a new methodology was a man of 68 years old. In addition to hypertension, Anthony Henry suffers from diabetes, thrombophlebitis, and has a history of stroke. During the operation, which lasted about an hour, the patient was awake and kept talking with doctors operating him. After the operation nurses conducted surveillance Anthony Henry during the day, according to doctors and patients will continue to write immediately after the operation.
In preliminary research physicians examined the mechanisms of hypertension and, in particular, the role of the kidneys in these mechanisms. It is known that renin, which is a precursor of angiotensin I, produced by the kidneys under the influence of prostaglandins, regulated kallikrein-kinin system. In this case, excitation of sympathetic nerves leads to activation of renal kallikrein-kinin system and, consequently, increased concentrations of angiotensin I. Angiotensin I, in turn, under the action of ACE is transformed into the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II, and that contributes to high blood pressure.
The essence of the new method of treating hypertension is the introduction of a blood vessel of a special device and burning with an electric current of renal sympathetic nerve. Ablation of renal sympathetic nerve (the correct name of the operation) inhibits the passage of the pulse, preventing the launch of the kallikrein-kinin system, prevents high blood pressure and, consequently, reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack and renal dysfunction.
According to the preliminary assumptions of the doctors, the result after operation is shown in full force after 3 months. To date, 10% of patients suffering from hypertension, can not hold the blood pressure is normal with antihypertensive drugs, because of their ineffectiveness or intolerance to their member components. Treatment of hypertension by surgery will give hope to such patients and, in addition, to avoid prescribing medications the consumption of which which usually lasts the whole life.
Mar 16, 2011
Another Cause Of Depression
The systematic use of alcohol may cause a genetic predisposition to depression. "Alcohol abuse, among other adverse effects, may increase the genetic predisposition for depression - according to researchers from New Zealand.
Previously conducted study of this question have shown a direct relationship of alcohol dependence and depression. But there was no proof that one disorder causes the other, or that similar genetic and environmental factors increase the risk of both states.
During the study, conducted surveillance of 1055 patients treated for alcohol dependence and depression in the period from 17 to 18 years, from 20 to 21 years and from 24 to 25 years. Number of participants who have experienced alcohol dependence and major depression were: 19.4% and 18.2% respectively in age from 17 to 18, 22.4% and 18.2% aged 20 to 21, 13.6% and 13.8% aged 24 to 25 years.
"Alcohol dependence increased the risk of depression, 1.9 times for patients of all ages" - says David M. Ferguson and his colleagues from the Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
"These results show that alcohol dependence can cause a deep depression, but a deep depression, often does not cause alcohol abuse."
So far scientists can not justify the results of his research, but suggest that because of alcohol abuse gets a genetic reaction, which resulted in often become depressed.
"Alcohol addiction is the cause of social, financial troubles and problems with the law, which in turn causes stress and increases the risk of depression - the researchers said. According to experts, examination of the relationship of alcohol dependence and depression will be continued in the future.
Mar 15, 2011
How To Cleanse The Liver?
In our frenzied lives, we continually overload our liver with all sorts of excesses. The liver is suffering thus a lot. And get a heaviness in the side, and bitterness in the mouth. But what foods can help 'calm' the liver? The most useful products for the liver are listed below:
1. Pumpkin in all forms, pumpkin seeds. 2. Vegetable Soup - vegetarian or strained meat broth. 3. Lean white meat (beef, turkey, chicken) in boiled, baked without oil as steam cutlets. 4. Lean fish (cod, perch, carp, saffron cod) in a steam or baked form. 5. Cottage cheese with fat content less than 2% (100-200 g / day), as well as yogurt, sour tang. 6. Porridges: buckwheat, oats. 7. Vegetable oils, especially olive oil, cold pressed. 8. Vegetables - in the form of fresh salads with olive oil. 9. Dried apricots, raisins. 10. Jelly, jelly, pudding. 11. Bread, cereal, dried better. 12. Broth rosehip and chamomile.
BY THE WAY
Liver - is largest organ in the human body can weigh up to 1,5 kg. Its cells - hepatocytes - are responsible for vital processes: the processing of proteins, carbohydrates and fats processing and removal from the body's decay products. The liver has a remarkable ability to repair itself. Even if a part of the liver remains after operation it recovers again in a few weeks.
Mar 14, 2011
How To Cope With A Cough?
One of the most unpleasant - and familiar to all - the effects of cold - is cough. Sometimes it hurts in the night, overpower the others in the morning. And for someone enough sips of cold water or a frosty air, to hear once again begin to cough.
Keep in mind, the more you cough, the harder to get rid of it.
So start the fight the best in the first three days of cold - when the cough has not. 3-4 times a day, rinse the nose with salt water, and every hour gargle the throat with a solution Furacilinum or tea soda and chamomile extract, sage and aloe. Typically, such intensive therapy gives the result: the throat is no longer sick and the infection does not "fall" of the upper airway in lower ones.
By the end of the first week of cold is not just a sore throat and starts coughing - a dry, painful, hacking. At this stage the problem is different: to make a dry cough in the wet, less irritating delicate bronchial tubes, then the healing process goes faster.
The third week passed - a cold seems to subside, but you still have a cough? Here improvised means not do - is likely to need help pulmonologist. Prolonged cough is dangerous, even if not very worried. This is a signal that the bronchi do not do their job!
Most likely you will be assigned antibiotics. To do so should a doctor and only after you have passed all the tests. Neglect a visit to the doctor is not necessary - a month later the cough may develop into chronic bronchitis!
If the cough is manifested again and again - for seizures, especially in wet and cool weather, when temperatures drop - most likely the infection has become chronic. Yes, and bronchitis can be treated - but how much labor, time and money will have to spend it! The best means of bronchitis - salt cave - session in a room walls of which are covered with salt crystals, and of course, a long stay in the dry and hot climate.
Mar 11, 2011
Slimming Errors
Following the desire to lose weight women often choose a diet. And all would do, but very often the diet is based on myths and erroneous beliefs, and therefore does not produce the desired result.
The first and main mistake women is that they believe in the miracle of most diets, attributing them a phenomenal possibilities and looking forward to stunning effect. Being on a diet, many women stop counting the calories of food consumed. And in vain. Even eating only products listed in the menu diet, you need to know exactly how many calories you consume and spend throughout the day.
Some women believe that dieting means starving yourself. Such an approach can not be considered true and not just because of the extra weight you do not get rid of, and even for the reason that you are harming your health.
Another mistake was losing weight that they feel a diet full and sufficient means to reduce weight, giving up all sorts of sports and physical activity. In addition, women often put the goal only to lose weight without thinking about how to proceed will be on normal diet and maintain weight at the desired level.
In addition, many rely on the widespread rumors that you can quickly lose weight without harm to health that is useful to starve, and that the slimming pills can work wonders. It must be remembered that the benefits can only the diet that worked for you personally dietitian, taking into account individual peculiarities of your organism.
And those who do not want to sit on a diet or not to believe in their effectiveness, comes to the aid plastic surgery. Liposuction, Abdominoplasty, buttocks plastic and many other procedures to help you quickly and efficiently bring your body back to normal.
Mar 10, 2011
Thyroid Is The Health Guard
Thyroid diseases are one of the most spread in the world. They stand in a line with diabetes and diseases of the cardiovascular system. But in most cases the diagnosis can not be made immediately - since irregularities of the endocrine system functioning is often disguised as other ailments!
Skin has become yellowish with a peach tint? The first thing that comes to mind - I have jaundice. And actually this color is in case of hypothyroidism - insufficient thyroid function. Hormone deficiency violates the transformation of the yellow pigment carotene into vitamin A.
Heart aches a little. Are you sure that this is the usual neurosis? It is necessary to examine the thyroid. Lack of hormonal influences on the heart may cause a slowing of pace - less than 60 beats per minute, heart failure, reduce or increase of blood pressure.
Thyroid hormones are responsible for thermoregulation, and their lack of you constantly freezing, tired, lethargic - almost as if depressed. Hypothyroidism can cause arthritis, digestive problems. Even the stones in the gall bladder - one of the typical "mask" the lack of thyroid hormones. A more visual and hearing disorders, snoring and frequent colds.
Weight gain? First of all it's worth examining the thyroid gland. Lack of hormones disrupt metabolism, raises blood cholesterol levels, atherosclerosis develops, and even obesity.
The problems can be prevented and conflicting symptoms, weight loss, palpitations and arrhythmia, as well as irritability, short temper, sharp mood swings. Gamy character - is a consequence of thyrotoxicosis - an excess of thyroid hormones in the body. Such a hormonal imbalance is not only thyroid disease. There are also cysts, tumors that respond to treatment better than previously detected.
Mar 9, 2011
Stress Hurts Not Only Soul But Also The Skin
Stress is recognized as one of the most serious evils of our time. That is why the revelation of its effects on the body concerns the specialists. It was recently discovered another "dark side" of stress: the scientists found that the worrings weaken the protective function of the skin, leaving it virtually defenseless against the germs.
This is the conclusion of the University of San Francisco under the guidance of a professor of medicine Kenneth Feingold. A series of experiments conducted by scientists it was found that stress not only disrupts the normal functioning of the skin, but also affects its structure.
The experiment was conducted on a special breed of mice differing in the absence of hair. To test his theory, researchers have subjected the rodents to a hard stress: in their kages for two days was burning a bright light, but indoors, where the experiments were held has always played the radio.
In stress situations the adrenal cortex begins to vigorously produce hormones glucocorticoids, because of that, respectively, their levels in the body increases. Therefore, in order to identify the effects of stress, part of the mice were given drugs that suppress the synthesis of these hormones. At the end of the experiment, scientists found that rodents treated with drugs, had skin not much better than their counterparts who received the full "dose" of glucocorticoids.
Experience with the participation of people had a staff of the University of Illinois. Assuming that depression affects physical health, they attracted to participate 193 students in the experiment. Each of them were made a little sore under anesthesia in the corner of the mouth, after which the scientists have only pictures of it every day, tracking the healing process.
To completely get rid of this injury, the body requires an average of about a week. However, students who were in a state of depression, noted that the wound heals much longer. Scientists have also noted an interesting fact: the feeling of loneliness, which is considered the cause of depression, did not affect the rate of healing wounds. The main "enemy" of skin health of the study appeared to be just a classic depression.
Mar 7, 2011
WHO Alarmed With Tuberculosis Spreading Amon
'Procession' of tuberculosis on the planet slows its pace, but not fast enough to meet its target: by 2015 to halve prevalence and mortality from this disease as compared with 1990 levels.
This was reported in a new report by the World Health Organization (WHO), published in Geneva on the occasion of World TB Day.
Particular attention is paid to the incidence of
among HIV-infected patients. Today about 14 million people worldwide suffer from HIV / AIDS and tuberculosis simultaneously. It is known that HIV weakens the immune system to infectious diseases. In 2007 there were 1.37 million of new cases of TB among people living with HIV. In the same year, 456,000 people died, suffering from both these two infectious diseases.
Of particular concern to WHO experts is also kind of drug-resistant tuberculosis. In 2007, this form of tuberculosis was approximately in 500 thousand people. Less than one percent of them received the necessary treatment.
Totally worldwide in 2007 there were 9.27 million new cases of tuberculosis. Typically, tuberculosis respond well to treatment with four standard drugs. But if you interrupt the course or the use of counterfeit or substandard drugs, the disease can be refractory to further treatment. In this situation, we need new drugs to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Mar 4, 2011
Cancer Vaccine From Tobacco Leaves
Employees at Stanford University have successfully tested the vaccine on follicular lymphoma obtained from genetically-modified tobacco leaves. New technology allows us to obtain the necessary treatment for a patient of personalized medicine for a week. Developed by scientists therapeutic vaccine stimulates the production of antibodies that selectively destroy cancerous cells. Since follicular lymphomas have different antigenic characteristics, the optimal vaccine composition is selected individually for each patient.
Required to begin preparation of the vaccine's genetic material is introduced into plants with the help of the virus - the causative agent of tobacco diseases. One week after infection in the leaves of plants accumulate a sufficient number of protein antigens that can be easily extracted and injected into the patient's body.
In clinical trials of the vaccine took part 16 patients with B-cell follicular lymphoma. In none of them the introduction of the drug did not cause significant adverse reactions. Specific immune response to vaccine was detected in 47 % of the participants.
The task of the first phase of testing was to evaluate the safety of a new drug, so its influence on the development of the disease is not yet rated. However, the earlier a similar technique for treatment of follicular lymphoma showed a high efficacy in mice.
One of the advantages of plant vaccine is its low cost. As the researchers note, their technology can be used for industrial production of a wide variety of biomedical products.
Mar 3, 2011
A New Way To Lower Cholesterol Found
Scientists have found a new way to lower cholesterol, leading to a new generation of drugs.
The team of researchers from the University of New South Wales, which was led by Associate Professor Andrew Brown discovered that an important role in the development of the body cholesterol has the enzyme squalene monooxygenase (CM). If we compare the production of cholesterol from the assembly line, then the enzyme squalene monooxygenase may be represented as a link in this chain. Moreover, it can be considered a kind of reference point in this process.
The currently available means to reduce blood cholesterol levels only affect one in twenty of enzymes involved in the chain for the production of cholesterol. It is an inhibitor of the enzyme-CoA reductase, HMG (HMG-CoA reductase) or statins.
- Widely used now for cholesterol-lowering statin class of drugs made a revolution in the pharmacological world - said Professor Brown. - They act on CoA reductase HMG, which is involved in the early stages of the production of cholesterol. Therefore, its inhibition effect on all subsequent units of this process and other useful substances, whose composition it enters. Some people therefore faced with the negative side effects such as muscle pain.
According to scientists, the most important thing is that the enzyme SM serves as a unique reference point on the final stage of the production of cholesterol. Therefore, it is better to work on this enzyme, without interfering in the early stages, reports Sciencedaily. Although cholesterol is something that is not very useful, it is necessary for our body. For example, it participates in the elaboration of sex hormones, and in building cell walls.
The study is reported in the "Cell Metabolism" journal.
Mar 2, 2011
Mother's Milk To Prevent Obesity
Children whose mothers had diabetes are at risk of obesity, but only if the mother did not breast-feed them. Researchers found out that children who are faced with diabetes, even being in the womb, reaching adolescence have no predisposition to be overweight if breastfeeding is continued for 6 months or more.
As researchers found, the children at the age of 6 and 13 years did not differ from their peers whose mother had diabetes during pregnancy. At the same time, this protection does not work when breastfeeding lasted for less than 6 months.
- Our data suggest that breastfeeding may help to reduce the risk of obesity among children. This concerns first of all those kids whose mothers suffered from diabetes during pregnancy - said study author Dana Dabeleya, Professor of Epidemiology School from Colorado School of Public Health.
- Although obesity and the impact that maternal diabetes has in utero development, lead to the development in the child type 2 diabetes after a certain period of time, breast-feeding though may reduce the risk of developing the disease. However, to confirm that such protection does exist, more research is needed - emphasizes ATOR.
Breastfeeding not only helps to establish the mother-child deep emotional ties, but has also a very good effect on its further development, both in the short and long term. For example, breast milk helps reducing the risk of respiratory infections, the possibility of developing asthma and atopy protects against hypertension, diabetes, 1st and 2nd type.
The study is piblished in the magazine "Diabetes Care".
Mar 1, 2011
Mushrooms Will Fight Against Malaria
Genetically modified fungi can be highly effective and environmentally safe means of controlling malaria.
At the present time are applied pesticides to kill mosquitoes that cause malaria. However, widespread use of chemicals leads to the fact that they are becoming less effective. Researchers from the University of Maryland have proposed to use for malaria control genetically modified fungus Metarhizium anisopliae, which is parasitic on many species of insects, including mosquitoes.
Scientists have tested on mosquitoes two species of fungi. In one case, in the genome of the fungus scientists hoisted gene of human antibodies to malaria. In another - a scorpion toxin gene. In both cases, genetic modification has been specially designed to kill mosquitoes passeth malarial plasmodium Falciparum. Both varieties of genetically modified fungi, as well as conventional non-GM fungi were sprayed in a spray on mosquito-transmitting agents of malaria.
Comparing the effects of exposure of mosquitoes with fungi, the researchers found that regardless of what kind of transgenic fungi were processed, after it causes malaria, P. falciparum met only 25% of mosquitoes treated with these organisms. Plain common strain of the fungus was unable to significantly inhibit the development of plasmodia and malaria vector control were 87% of the mosquitoes. Almost as many (94%) carriers of infection were detected among the untreated fungus mosquitoes.
Scientists estimate that genetically modified fungi were able to slow the development of parasites in the five-fold compared with the common strain in nature. According to statistics from the World Health Organization, 240 million people every year in the world get infected with malaria. The victims of this infection are 850,000 cases, most of them are children.
- Use of our way to fight malaria through the transgenic fungus is universal, as it allows to create genetic organisms, capable of striking almost any arthropods, which is a peddler of disease - says the professor of entomology at the University of Maryland Raymond Leger.
Article telling about the study is published in the Science journal.
Feb 28, 2011
Strong Painkiller Found In Algae
American and Chilean scientists have created algae-based local anesthetic of prolonged action.
Every year, tens of millions of patients around the world are injected with anesthesia solutions to perform surgical operations. However, the action of modern local analgesics is no longer than 8 hours. When the anesthetic effect is weakened, the opioids have to be injected into patients, which have serious side effects such as nausea, sedation, respiratory failure.
Not so long ago there began the development of a new class of analgesics based on algae, the action of which takes 24 hours or more. Effectiveness of one of the drugs in this class - neosacsitocsine - scientists compared the action of the widely used now analgesic bupivacaine. The study was conducted involving 137 children who underwent surgery to remove the gallbladder.
In the end it turned out that a new drug can significantly reduce postoperative pain and for two days to reduce the recovery period. In this case, no serious side effects from the use of new tools have been identified.
Neosacsitocsine - is a sodium channel blocker that is based on molecules derived from aquatic organisms.
The study is reported in the journal "Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine" in the March-April issue.
Feb 24, 2011
Scientists Found Where Schizophrenia Hides
It was discovered a genetic mutation that leads to the breakdown of mental activity. (Schizophrenia - is a chronic disorder of mental activity that leads to disability. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and violation of mental activity.)
It is believed that the disease is caused by environmental factors and genetic causes. The disease develops at 1% of the population, or 10% of people, close relatives of them (parents, brother or sister) suffer from this disorder. Previous studies have shown that the risk of schizophrenia increases if a person shows the mutations that occur in several places in the genome (CNV-mutation). When these mutations in close relatives found a different number of copies of the same gene. However, genes involved in this process were not known to scientists.
In a recent study geneticists have managed to go further. Searching CNV-mutation the researchers examined the genomes of 8,290 people diagnosed with schizophrenia, as well as around 7,500 healthy people.
- We have discovered that schizophrenia is associated with specific mutations, occurring in several parts of the genome. Some of them have been investigated previously, but we found one more important thing - doubling at the end of the chromosome 7q occurs in patients with schizophrenia are 14 times more likely than healthy people. These CNV-mutations affect the receptor neuropeptide VIPR2 - the gene responsible for the development of the brain - says Jonathan Sebat, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, University of California in San Diego. This gene, known as VIPR2 or Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Receptor 2, expressing in the nervous system, including brain, blood vessels and digestive tract. There is also evidence that VIPR2 helps regulate the formation and activity of neurons in the brain. In rodents VIPR2 also plays an important role in the management of behavioral processes, including training and planning your day.
Scientists led by Sebata by examining blood cells, found that the mutation leads to a higher gene expression VIPR2 and greater receptor activity, writes Sciencedaily.
- We concluded that the mutation leads ultimately to strengthen the VIP signaling pathway - Sebat says. With this information, you can now find the appropriate treatment.
According to the researcher, the scientists now plan to test the effectiveness of therapy in mice and cultured human cells carrying a mutation VIPR2.
Feb 23, 2011
Cholesterol Worsens Memory
Raised levels of cholesterol and blood pressure leads not only to cardiovascular disease, but also memory impairment.
To find out how high cholesterol is associated with intellectual ability, french scientists from the National Institute of Health and Medical Research in Paris were invited to study 3,486 men and 1,341 women. The average age of participants was 55 years. All of them three times over 10 years were tested for cognitive abilities.
With the help of special tests were evaluated the ability of participants to reason, remember and express thoughts, as well as their vocabulary. In addition, the researchers calculated the possibility of cardiovascular disease occurence within the next 10 years. Were taken for the calculation such indicators as gender, age, level of "good" and total cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, diabetes, and addiction to smoking.
The study showed that the higher the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, the lower were the cognitive abilities of the person and the faster they fell. For example, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease by 10% led to a deterioration of cognitive abilities, but the ability to reason logically in men and express the thoughts in women. In this case, men coped with the test of memory by 2,8% less, and women at 7.1%.
- The aptitude to cardiovascular disease leads to a decrease in cognitive abilities of both men and women - said study author Sarah Kaffashian from the National Institute of Health and Medical Research in Paris. - Our discovery demonstrates once more that risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as cholesterol and pressure play a role in the deterioration of cognitive abilities, which begins to appear in middle age.
Feb 22, 2011
Flu Vaccine
A new vaccine that provides 100% protection against influenza has successfully passed the first stage of animal testing.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide under the guidance of Dr. Darren Miller conducted successful tests of a new universal flu vaccine. What is important, its release is planed in the form of nasal spray.
For the production of this synthetic vaccine is not used influenza virus, and it does not require annual renewal of its composition. For its creation scientists took special peptides that are getting into the body to build immunity once for all viruses types A and B. This is possible because the body's immune cells 'learn' to recognize a small area on the surface of the influenza virus that is identical in these two viruses.
Tests have shown that vaccination led to the development of 100% immunity to the virus H3N2 and 20% immunity to an extremely dangerous virus H5N1, known as avian influenza, which is comparable with the level of protection to provide antiviral drugs, writes Sciencedaily.com.
As they note, the new vaccine can be administered not only in the form of vaccinations. It can be applied in the form of a nasal spray that has several advantages. For example, non-invasive procedure is for those people who are afraid of needles. It is also important that when sprayed into the nasal passages in the mucosal immune response is generated in the very place where most people often get infected.
Modern universal vaccine may be freely used by allergic people, since its creation does not apply the usage of eggs. In addition, the universal vaccine will save scientists from the painstaking and laborious process to identify strains that are most prevalent in the coming season, as well as the need to undergo an annual vaccination.
The results of testing a new vaccine is reported in "Journal of General Virology".
Feb 21, 2011
The Placebo Effect Can Work In Reverse
During the treatment it is particularly important that the patient had expected a positive effect of drugs' action. Otherwise, medications may be useless.
Everyone is familiar with the placebo effect, when the expectations of the patient from taking medications help to cope with the disease more quickly. But when the placebo causes unwanted side effects, they are called "nocebo" which means "I do not get pleasure." This effect was studied by the staff of the University of Hamburg, led by Dr. Ulrike Bingel.
Studies have shown that patients start to feel more acute pain, if they find out that they are taking pain medication which does not work. 22 healthy volunteers participated in the study were enjected with a strong analgesic remifentanil. Participants were placed in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which scanned the brains of volunteers. Simultaneously, the subjects were connected to the apparatus for intravenous drugs.
First, researchers have tested the temperature effects on legs, which was estimated at about 70 points on a 100-point scale. At the same time, remifentanil was injected to volunteers, but the testees themselves did not know about this. As expected, when the anesthetic took effect, the level of pain in volunteers decreased, but only slightly (to 55 points). When volunteers were told that remifentanil began to act, they reported that they felt significant relief, and assessed the level of pain already at 39 points.
Then, to test the "nocebo" effect scientists said the volunteers that they were not injected with a painkiller, because of what they can again feel the pain, though actually anesthetic continued its effect. As a result, according to the volunteers, they really began to feel acute pain, the level of which has jumped to 64 points. That is, participants felt the same pain as if did not receive pain medication.
Moreover, auto-suggestion, as it turned out, affects brain function. As revealed by MRI scans, when people thought that anesthetic was acting, it was switched on that part of the brain which did not allow to enter the brain pain signals.
Feb 18, 2011
An Injection Will Save From Blindness
A simple and effective method of saving premature babies from blindness was offered by U.S. researchers.
They tried a new technique for treatment of retinal with medicines that turned out to be not only effective but also much cheaper than the methods used now.
Retinopathy - is the damage to the retina of the eyeball - a major cause of vision loss in childhood. This disease in preterm infants is considered the most dangerous and difficult to treat. It occurs in preterm infants of gestation term up to 34 weeks. When the disease is disruptive to the growth of blood vessels in the eye that can lead to scarring and retinal detachment.
In their study, Dr. Helen Mintz-Hittner and Alfred Lesher, professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences, University of Texas, compared the efficacy of treatment of retinopathy using the drug Bevacizumab and laser therapy.
For the study, researchers selected 143 children with severe retinopathy, which struck those areas of retina that are most difficult to treat. The experiment showed that after treatment relapse was observed in 6% of children treated with bevacizumab, and 42% of children have passed laser therapy.
For drug therapy retina is sufficient to make a local anesthetic and enter into the eye a small amount of drugs. The entire process takes 2-3 minutes, and the result is already visible after 24 hours. Under the action of the drug disappear abnormal blood vessels, and instead of them grow up normal. Patient retained the entire field of vision, and myopia developing in very rare cases.
The results were so impressive that some U.S. hospitals have abandoned the traditional treatment of retinopathy of prematurity with laser and now only use drug therapy.
Feb 17, 2011
Early Baldness
If a young person starts to lose hair at the age of 20 years, this may be an alarming signal for the future development of prostate cancer.
French scientists found that in the initial stage of prostate cancer younger men were twice as likely than healthy people to develop alopecia (hair loss).
To elucidate the possible link between hair loss and prostate cancer group of scientists for more than two years studying the progression of the disease and especially baldness in men suffering from this cancer.
A total of 388 patients participated with prostate cancer. The control group consisted of more than 280 healthy males. Scientists asked subjects to indicate, does not appear if they have some signs of baldness at the age of 20, 30 and 40 years before was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and what type it is passed.
The study showed that the loss of hair at the age of 20 years in one form or another were found in 37 patients with prostate cancer and in 14 healthy men. Regardless of the form of alopecia, if the hair loss began at such an early age, the risk of prostate cancer in young men was two times higher than that of their "hairy" peers.
The head of the study, Dr. Philippe Giraud from the European Georges Pompidou Hospital in Paris, explains that the increased levels of androgens, which is marked by hair loss, also characteristic of prostate cancer.
Although alopecia at the age of 20 years can be seen as an obvious risk factor to assert with confidence that baldness and prostate cancer are linked, more research is needed, the authors note. Hair loss, aged 30-40 years should not be cause for concern, since it does not mean an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. As well as on its own hair loss in 20 years of age is not a sign that a man must develop a malignant tumor, the researchers emphasize.
Feb 16, 2011
Cereals, Fruits And Vegetables Prolong One's
Eating foods high in dietary fiber may reduce the risk of death by 22%, say U.S. researchers.
Employees of the National Cancer Institute in the United States analyzed data from a nationwide study of nutrition and health, in which were involved more than 388,000 volunteers. All of them had to answer the questionnaire, reporting on one's diet. On average, men who participated in the survey, daily consumed 13 to 29 grams of dietary fiber, and women - from 11 to 26 grams. The study lasted for about 9 years and during that time had died more than 21 000 men and 11,000 women.
At the risk of death in people who ate a large number of fibers was 22% lower than those whose diet was not rich by them. The threat of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases was also lower at 24-56% in men who ate foods high in fiber, and 34-59% in women who took a similar diet.
Moreover, as the scientists, the findings show that the death of people save specifically fiber contained in cereals, but not from those contained in fruit. Dietary fibers are particularly rich in cereals, vegetables, fruits, legumes and nuts.
- Previously, scientists have proven the link between consumption of dietary fiber and cardiovascular disease - the authors note. Now, however, they managed to establish a link between a diet rich in dietary fiber, and mortality.
But experts reacted ambiguously to the conclusions of authors of the study. You may find that people who consume foods rich in dietary fiber, simply lead a healthier lifestyle - more exercise, and refrain from smoking. Those who prefer processed foods, avoiding the attention of raw fruits and vegetables and less time paying their own health.
- It is not enough to just eat more healthy food rich in fibers to avoid serious diseases such as cardio-vascular diseases and diabetes - says nutritionist Samantha Heller of the Center for Cancer Therapy in Derby (Connecticut).
Published in 2010 by USDA "Dietary guidelines for Americans" recommend consuming 14 grams of daily dietary fiber for every 1000 kilocalories, an average 25 grams of fiber per day.
Feb 15, 2011
Fireplaces And Stoves Are Dangerous For Heal
Scientists warn that wood stoves and fireplaces can cause serious illnesses.
Millions of people around the world use wood for heating homes and for cooking, and are not even aware that endangered wood smoke exposure. A study conducted by Danish scientists found that contained in the smoke thin or so-called particulate particles, getting into the lungs, and has extremely negative impact on health.
For example, inhalation of fine particles provokes diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Dr. Steffen Loft and colleagues measured the content of particulates in the center of a typical Danish village, where most residents are using wood stoves. The results obtained are scientists compared with measurements of air in a nearby village, whose inhabitants refused to furnace heating. It was found that identified in the analysis of country air particulates were as small in size, which can freely penetrate into the remotest parts of the lungs.
In this case, the air was identified a large number of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which in humans provoke cancer. Among other things, solid particles are harmful to genetic material, altering the DNA, increasing the inflammatory processes and including the genes whose activity leads to disease.
It is worth noting that solid particles get into the air, not only by burning wood, but also from exhaust fumes.
Feb 14, 2011
"Superfruit"
The ability of chocolate to support the cardiovascular system better than some fruits and vegetables, got a scientific explanation.
Scientists have known for a long time that chocolate contributes to the development of high density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol that protects against heart disease. However, to understand, due to what this sweet can improve the health of blood vessels and the heart, scientists have been able to know only recently.
Dr. Midori Natsumi and colleagues showed that the level of "bad" cholesterol affects the main ingredient of chocolate - cocoa. Contained in the cocoa polyphenols increase the activity of proteins, including proteins that bind to genetic material DNA, resulting in improved production of "good" cholesterol.
The study was conducted in cell cultures of human liver and intestinal tract. Scientists' attention was directed to study the production of apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) - the main component of "good" cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) - the main component of "bad" cholesterol.
As laboratory experiments showed, the liver and intestine of cocoa polyphenols increased the level of ApoA1, while reducing ApoB. Besides, polyphenols increases the activity of so-called binding protein sterol-regulatory element (SREBPs). These proteins are attached to the genetic material DNA, and include genes that increase the level of ApoA1, which leads to increased levels of "good" cholesterol, according to MedicalNewsToday.
Due to the high content of antioxidants in chocolate and flavanols, some researchers have even called chocolate "superfruit". And on their content chocolate is even ahead of fruit juices.
Researchers from the Hershey Center for Health & Nutrition compared the activity of antioxidants contained in cocoa powder and fruit-flour. As a result, it was found out that cocoa surpasses fruit both on the power of antioxidants, as well as on total flavanols. By comparing the amount of antioxidants in one serving of dark chocolate, cocoa, chocolate and fruit juice, experts found that dark chocolate and cocoa powder contains more powerful antioxidants (polyphenols and flavanols) than fruit juices.
- Cocoa seeds are the "superfruit", the food value of which far exceeds their macronutrient composition, - says study author Debra Miller.
Feb 11, 2011
Fish May Save From Blindness
It was found out how fish omega-3 fatty acids may protect against retinal lesions - retinopathy.
Retinopathy provokes a rapid increase in the retina of a blood vessels rete.
As established earlier by scientists from Boston Children's Hospital under the guidance of an ophthalmologist Lois Smith, when mice were fed with a high content of omega-3 fatty acids, the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina is slowed down by 50%. In addition, these healthy fats reduce the degree of ocular inflammation. It was found that contained in fish oils have another defense mechanism - they can directly regulate the growth of blood vessels, keeping their abnormal growth.
Scientists managed to identify the components of omega-3 fatty acids (4-HDHA), which provided a beneficial effect on the mice, as well as the enzyme responsible for its production (5-lipoxygenase or 5-LOX).
At the same time, scientists have shown that drugs such as aspirin, belonging to the class of inhibitors of the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) does not interfere with this process. In experiments it was shown that cyclooxygenase enzymes are not involved in the decay of the omega- 3 fatty acids, and thus aspirin, which is taken by millions of people around the world, does not diminish the beneficial properties of omega-3 fatty acids.
Above all it is worth noting that the treatment of retinopathy with omega-3 fatty acids may also prove cost-effective. Month course of treatment drugs on the basis of omega-3 fatty acids would cost about $ 10, whereas treatment with drugs aimed at suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF drugs), such as Lucentis, pegaptanib (Macugen, Eyetech) and Avastin, Genentech, will cost approximately $ 4.000 per month.
Feb 10, 2011
Brain Attack
The method developed in Spain can greatly accelerate the healing process of patients after stroke.
Stroke, as well as head trauma, leads to excessive accumulation in the brain of a particular substance glutamate. In this case, the higher the level of glutamate, the worse the patient's healing process is.
To solve this problem the doctors are trying for a long time, but until recently effective drugs that help restore brain function after trauma, did not exist. The main difficulty was that most of the drugs could not overcome the blood-brain barrier to penetration into the brain of large molecules and blood cells. Those drugs, which nevertheless succeeded in this, often worked not as effectively as doctors would like to.
Hope for the patience who suffered from stroke gave the scientists from Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. Professor, Department of Neurobiology Vivian I. Teichberg in 2003 first showed that a high concentration of glutamate in the brain can be reduced by lowering the level of glutamate in the blood. The professor suggested that because of the concentration of this amino acid difference will be "washed out" of the brain. A lower its level in the blood by using the natural enzyme glutamate-oxaloacetate transminase (GOT).
Correctness of the theory Teichberg was recently confirmed by the laboratory staff of Professor Jose Castillo at the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. In his studies, they demonstrated that by injection oxaloacetate it is possible to reduce the level of glutamate in blood and in the exposed area of the brain. The researchers, led by Francesco Campos conducted experiments on mice that had brain lesions characteristic of stroke. Uses of enzyme significantly reduced both cell death and the swelling that occurs in stroke.
This technique may help treat stroke and suffering from other diseases, since glutamate accumulates in the brain and in Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma, Charcot disease, and brain tumors. Therefore, there is a hope that drugs that reduce the concentration of glutamate will be widely used.
Feb 9, 2011
Salmonella Drugs
Salmonella bacteria can be used as a measure to combat viruses.
It turns out that a dangerous salmonella bacteria, which causes disorder of the gastrointestinal tract may be a remedy. Scientists "reprogrammed" salmonella and included several enzymes, resulting in the bacterium was able to cure some viral diseases. Salmonella is one of the major causative agents of salmonellosis. The disease develops in approximately 48 hours after the bacteria enter the body and can last from 4 to 7 days. Some strains of salmonella can be causative agents of typhoid fever.
Salmonella has attracted attention for its ability to survive in the digestive tract of men. Researchers from the University of California at Berkeley write, because of this "vitality" Salmonella has an excellent "delivery vehicle" into the cells of enzymes that can stop viruses.
Using this technique, scientists have cured mice from cytomegalovirus infection. Experience has shown that when rodents in the control group who did not receive treatment died within 25 days after infection, the animals that are added to foods modified strains of Salmonella, were alive and after 50 days after infection. Drug on the basis of salmonella allowed to reduce the amount of virus in mice of 400-600 times.
Importantly, the drug on the basis of salmonella can be administered not by injection, but orally. The developers of this innovative technique ate the virologist Yong Feng Liu and bacteriologist Wei Liu Sung from the University of California at Berkeley, USA.
- Usually for creating vaccines for diseases such as polio or smallpox used live, inactivated viruses, which strengthens the immune system. But this is the first time when are created effective means of viral infection on the basis of the bacteria - said the professor, University of California at Berkeley F. Liu.
- This is the first medicine for a viral infection, which can be ingested through the mouth, which is much easier shots - emphasizes Liu. - Moreover, the already established Salmonella strains with reduced virulence. Their safety for human body has already been proved and they are already used to produce vaccines against typhoid fever.
Scientists hope that in the future with Salmonella can win and some forms of cancer, wrote Sciencedaily.
Feb 8, 2011
A Virtual Obesity
The new device will help all who want to feel on itself, what it means to be overweight.
The volunteers put on a special monitor on their head, though you can see simulated by computer graphics own body with hanging belly. Include both located on belt special sensors that allow you to feel the weight of fat.
Previously, developers had already submitted a similar device which made people believe that they have had one more virtual hand, or even give the man a chance to feel like a woman.
These feelings are achieved by pressure sensors on a real hand or region of the body, which is synchronized with the image on the screen.
Trials, lasting more than a decade have shown that to make people believe that he had the artificial arm, enough to hide from view the real hand and synchronize it with tactile touch, showed on the screen.
To study people's perceptions of their bodies Mel Slater, a scientist at the University of Barcelona and University College London and colleagues developed a special suit and goggles for immersion in virtual reality, and tested their ability by 22 volunteers. Participants must have been using a cane to palpate their abdomen, which was presented on the screen in a much larger size. Then the volunteers were asked to pat his stomach to the music, and a huge virtual body on the screen also swayed by touch.
All testees reported that they could very real feel to try a new body, which had more than their present, says Physorg.
- Although the results were expected, never ceases to amaze just how our brains are fooled easily allows for changes in body size, - says the author of the experiment.
Suit for virtual reality can be used in cognitive therapy for treating disorders of perception of own body, as well as for the treatment of obesity. Obese person can be just as well to get to feel thin. Feeling through virtual reality, as a healthy diet can improve the appearance, obese people will have a strong incentive to change their dietary habits, in reality, says a researcher.
Feb 7, 2011
Vegetarianism Is Dangerous For The Heart
Vegetarians, strictly following the principle of a complete rejection of meat and all animal products are at increased risk of blood clots and atherosclerosis.
Total rejection of meat leads to the defeat of the arteries and, consequently, to a stroke or heart attack. Such a conclusion was made by U.S. researchers after studying dozens of scientific publications issued over the past 30 years devoted to issues of vegetarianism and biochemistry.
The study's author, Professor Li Duo notes that, although everyone knows that meat-eaters exposed to multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease, a radical rejection of animal fat is dangerous for heart health.
The diet of radical vegetarians missing some essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. If a balanced vegetarian diet can still provide the body with sufficient protein, fat and provide a flow of fatty acids with only one plant foods can not. As a result, opponents of meat have elevated levels of homocysteine and low levels of HDL or "good" cholesterol. Both are a risk factor for heart disease.
Scientists have concluded that vegetarians should include in your diet dietary omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. This will help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, writes MedicalNewstToday.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and other fatty fish, as well as in nuts. Vitamin B12 is found in seafood, eggs and fortified milk. These elements are often part of many food additives.
Feb 4, 2011
Mystery Of Nicotine Dependence Unravelled
Scientists have learned how to reduce the susceptibility of the brain to nicotine. A new study has shown that acting on specific receptors in the brain responsible for perception of nicotine it is possible to control the craving for this drug.
Nicotine - is the main component of tobacco smoke that causes addiction. Once in the brain, this substance activates specific proteins (receptors), consisting of 3 elements. Study of the role of one of the elements of the receptor (±5 * nAChRs) in regulating the consumption of nicotine was devoted to the study of scientists from the The Scripps Research Institute. It was found during research conducted by Professor Paul Kenny, penetrating into the brain, nicotine activates the nicotinic receptors with an element of ±5, causing the so-called negative response, which suppresses the desire to consume more nicotine.
Smoking - one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Each year, victims of this habit are 5 million people. In 90% of deaths from lung cancer is caused by smoking. In 60% of nicotine dependence has genetic roots.
However, as shown by experiments on mice, cut-off element with ±5 receptor leads to the fact that rodents to consume nicotine in much larger quantities than normal mice. To confirm this association, researchers with a special study of the virus recovered receptor element, after which the nicotine intake returned to normal.
Scientists have repeated the experiments on rats and obtained similar results. In rats with the virus have been disconnected elements ±5 receptor, after which the rodents were more actively consume nicotine in high doses. Animals as the control group were more temperate.
- We did not expect the pedestrian area of the brain and other structures, in which he appears to play a less significant role in controlling the desire to consume nicotine, - said one of the authors of the study Kristi Fowler (Christie Fowler). - Apparently, when the nicotine concentration reaches a certain level, the leash is activated. But if this structure is not working properly, it is necessary to increase the dose of nicotine.
Scientists hope this discovery will help smokers get off the habit. Already under development a new drug, amplifies the signals of the element receptor ±5 * nAChR, which will thereby reduce their dependence on nicotine.
Feb 3, 2011
Probiotics Will Cure Intestines
Enriched with probiotics dairy products can be not only a means of enhancing immunity, but also an effective remedy to fight bowel disease.
Researchers from Northwestern University in the U.S. have shown that healthful bacteria, which are abundant in yogurt and cheese can defeat such chronic diseases as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and even help with colon cancer.
Geneticists modified lactic acid bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus, removing only one gene. Products with the newly derived lactic acid bacillus, scientists fed mice suffering from various forms of colitis. After receiving over 13 days obtained in the laboratory strains of probiotics in rodents by 95% to stop the development of the disease, and mice almost completely recovered from an inflammation of the intestine.
This success in genetic engineering will help to develop entirely new approaches to treatment of autoimmune intestinal diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer, say scientists.
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis - two chronic relapsing disease in which chronic inflammation of the tissues interferes with the normal functioning of the intestinal tract. Existing drugs can not completely rid the patients of these diseases.
Perhaps in the near future, such patients can be cured completely without drugs, simply include in their diet of foods enriched with probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, wrote Sciencedaily.
Genetically modified lactic acid bacteria getting into the digestive tract play a role of "peacekeepers", holding overexcited cells of the immune system from attacking on our own intestines. Probiotics are mobilizing messengers immune cells - dendritic cells - the production of other functional immune cells that balance the systemic inflammation.
In the near future, scientists plan to conduct clinical trials of a new form of Lactobacillus acidophilus, said study author Mansour Mohamadzadeh.
Feb 2, 2011
Microchip Will Warn Of A Heart Attack
Scientists have created a microchip capable to determine the risk of the patient's terminal illness by saliva.
Currently are being tested just 6 versions of programmable bionanochip (PBNC), configured to detect the patients symptoms of cardiovascular disease, cancer, ovarian, prostate, oral cavity, as well as the identification of drug dependence. In development are also the microchips that identify a person with HIV / AIDS and other diseases.
Created by staff at Rice University programmable bionanochip allows for the necessary medical tests on various parameters quickly and painlessly. Moreover, importantly, with the mass production of a new biosensor, significantly reduce the cost of common test today.
Device maker, Professor John McDevitt from Rice University details the microchip to determine the risk of heart attack.
- Often, heart diseases manifest themselves only when they kill a person - says McDevitt.
- With this device you can save one's life, and significantly reduce time and cost of treatment for those suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
Programmable bionanochip analyzes the composition of saliva, determining the presence of biomarkers characteristic of cardiovascular disease.
During a heart attack is important for an hour to open a blocked vessel, which allows to save heart muscle and increases the chances of patient survival. However, only half of patients after a heart attack manages to do an electrocardiogram in the first minutes after the attack. Others also have to pass a series of laboratory tests that can take up to 12 hours.
Developing an electronic sensor is capable to give results within 20 minutes. Clinicians, having that information, can find a more effective treatment strategy.
- Programmable bionanochip combines medical instruments and micro-electronic device - says McDevitt. - He has all chances to make the information revolution in medical practice, while substantially lowering the cost of treatment. I like to think of it as a medical iPhone, which will change the appearance and the "game's rules."
According to the developer, bionanochips and readers of this information they may soon appear in hospitals, dentists' offices, pharmacies and clinics around the world, according to Physorg.
Feb 1, 2011
How Does Broccoli Protect Against Cancer?
Scientists have explained in terms of Biochemistry the ability of cauliflower and other vegetables of this subspecies to detect and correct a defective gene that causes cancer.
In previous experiments, scientists have proved that the substance isothiocyanide (or ITC), which are found in cauliflower, broccoli, watercress and other cruciferous vegetables can stop the growth of cancerous tumors. However, how these substances can counteract the cancer still remained a mystery. And without understanding this mechanism it is not possible to improve the methods of fighting cancer.
Study leader Dr. Fung-Lung Chung and colleagues found that the gene p53, tumor suppressor, it turns out, plays a key role in maintaining healthy cells, suppressing their abnormal growth, which occurs in case of cancer. Mutated p53 gene does not provide protection, because of what occurs in about 50% of all tumors in humans. Isothiocyanides same effect on these genes, the researchers found.
Scientists have studied the effects of some naturally occurring isothiocyanides on cancer cells of various neoplasms - tumors of the lung, breast and colon - as with the defective gene that suppresses tumor, and without it. As a result, the researchers found that isothiocyanides can eliminate defective protein gene p53, without affecting the normal one, reports Science Daily.
Drugs based on natural or artificially synthesized isothiocyanides could improve the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments or lead to the development of new approaches to treatment and prevention of cancer.
Jan 31, 2011
Insulin Injections
Scientists from Southwestern Medical Center University of University of Texas - UT believe that by eliminating the effect of certain hormone type 1 diabetes can be moved into the form of asymptomatic, not dependent on insulin disorder.
Results obtained and held on mice suggest that insulin is completely unnecessary and its absence does not lead to diabetes or any other anomalies, if suppressed by the action of glucagon. Produced by the pancreas hormone, glucagon prevents low blood sugar in the blood of healthy individuals and increases its level in type 1 diabetes.
"We all tend to think that insulin - a hormone Almighty, without which life is impossible, but it's not" - said Dr. Roger Unger, professor of internal medicine and senior author of the article published in the journal Diabetes. "If diabetes is defined as the recovery to normal glucose homeostasis, whereas our method can probably be regarded as very close to the means of "healing".
Insulin is the gold standard of treatment of type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes) since its opening in 1922. But only the regulation of diabetes with insulin, even optimal, can not restore normal glucose tolerance. New evidence suggests that the restoration of glucose tolerance to normal achieved the elimination of glucagon.
Typically, glucagon is released when a low level of blood glucose, or sugar level. In case of insulin deficiency, however, glucagon levels are excessively high, which makes the liver secretes into the blood stream an additional amount of glucose. This action is opposite to the action of insulin, which stimulates the removal of sugar from the blood cells in the body.
With type 1 diabetes, which affects about 1 million people in the U.S. alone, kills insulin-producing 'islet' cells of the pancreas. As a countermeasure patients must take insulin several times a day to digest the sugar in the blood, regulate its levels and prevent diabetic coma. They must also adhere strictly restricted diet.
Scientists have studied how genetically modified mice with the absence of glucagon receptors respond to the oral test for glucose tolerance. Test that can be used to diagnose diabetes, gestational diabetes (diabetes of pregnancy) and pre-diabetes, evaluates the body's ability to metabolize or break down, which is in the blood glucose.
Jan 28, 2011
Female Sexual Dysfunction
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder affects roughly 1 in 10 women and is the most common sexual dysfunction among women of all ages. It is difficult to diagnose because a woman's sex drive varies from person to person. And the factors causing a lowered sex drive can range from psychological to biological. But some women underestimate what an important role sexual health plays in their overall health. And if the lack of desire becomes distressing in any way or interferes with her overall quality of life, she may have hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Many women suffer in silence and some even feel that a decline in sexual desire is a normal part of aging. According to Sheryl A. Kingsberg, PhD, a clinical psychologist and Professor in the Department of Reproductive Biology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio: "Women should not be expected to accept a distressing loss of sexual desire any more than they should be expected to simply accept arthritis, acid reflux, or any other condition often associated with aging."
Unfortunately, hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women is not as well recognized as erectile dysfunction in men. There are many medications available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, but today there are no US FDA approved medications for women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. "The problem is further compounded by a lack of attention and interest in women's sexual satisfaction in many cultures," says Kingsberg. And as a result, "some women may feel that it is not appropriate to seek help for a sexual problem."
Jan 27, 2011
Cataract And Antidepressants
Ophthalmologists around the world are actively engaged in research to identify causes and mechanisms of development of serious eye disease - cataract. Along with age-related changes and eye injury risk factor was found prolonged use of certain drugs. However, thorough research to determine the precise relationship between these phenomena has not yet been conducted.
Recently, Canadian researchers from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and McGill University decided to determine exactly how to influence the development of cataracts are the strongest tools such as antidepressants. They were conducted extensive research with the participation of two hundred thousand residents of Quebec at the age of 65.
The results of this study indicate that the factors that provoke this disease should be classified as taking certain antidepressants class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which proved to be provoking a cataract, on average, within two years.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been released in the mid-80's. Today they are the most demanded in the treatment of depression. When taking they do not need to adhere to special diets. To reduce the risk of side effects may be altered dose or assigned to another antidepressant.
The data obtained showed that the risk is high in case of treatment with certain drugs. For example, intake of fluvoxamine (Luvoksa) increases the possibility of developing cataracts by more than 50%, venlafaxine (Effexor) - 34%. At the same time, the connection between the development of cataracts and fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celecs), sertraline (Zoloft) was not detected. In general, in patients taking antidepressants cataract was diagnosed 15% more likely than those who did not take them.
Jan 26, 2011
Asthma And Depression
Medicine does not know the exact cause of depression while suffering from asthma, but it is known how asthma affects the mental state. Asthma - is a chronic inflammatory disease. Emerging inflammation in the body interconnects with the brain activity, causing neural changes to occur. This, in turn, can affect mood and behavior and cause depression. Signs of such a state are: depressed mood, lethargy, loss of appetite.
Medical research published in the journal Neuroimage, examines the relationship between depression and asthma. The results show: when depression releases, asthma, calms down. In fact, the disappearance of depression is associated with decreased use of drugs for asthma.
Asthma, which is not treated, does not give people to be active. Inactivity with difficulty breathing creates a lot of implications for both physical and mental health. Here are some of them:
* Social isolation * Deep Depression * Poor control of the disease * Progression of asthma
Depression during asthma may be due to drug use. Most of them contain hormones, as it directly affects mood. A person becomes irritable, quick-tempered, restless. This effect is quite likely when using an inhaler and an anti-inflammatory tablets, which are commonly used in the treatment of asthma.
Jan 25, 2011
Blueberries Help Reducing The Blood Pressure
Just a couple of servings of blueberries a week will reduce the risk of hypertension by 10%.
Blueberries have unique properties. Thanks to the high content of antioxidants, they are able to normalize blood pressure. Especially useful in this respect is part of the flavonoid anthocyanin berries.
In the middle portion of blueberries, currants or red orange juice contains a considerable amount of anthocyanins (> 500 mg). Therefore, it is enough to include in your diet blueberry or black currant, to get protection from the development of hypertension, researchers found.
As it was established scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health, these berries are especially useful for those whose age is approaching 60. Inclusion in the diet of two or more servings of blueberries a week can help reduce the risk of developing hypertension by 10%.
As noted by the study's author, Eric Rima, the scientists collected data on the benefits of anthocyanins are important because these biologically active substances found in the most popular fruits and berries.
On their study the authors tell on the pages of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Jan 21, 2011
Detox Diet
A special cleansing diet will help your body get rid of toxins and impurities - sounds good, right? In any case, the consumption of fruits and vegetables only positivelly effects the body, and the restriction of meat gives a sense of lightness.
The idea of a special diet is able to save the human organism from the attack of harmful substances was born out of excessive concern that toxins are constantly bombarding our bodies. But for a start We will understand - what toxins. These are the substances with potentially harmful effects. In the human body they can get from many foods, such as:
* Alcohol * Caffeine * Fruits and vegetables grown using chemicals and pesticides * Smog and other harmful substances in the air * Artificial sweeteners * Sugar * And even water
The truth is that the toxins cause problems if you occupy the body on all fronts - be contained in the digestive tract, lymph, gastrointestinal system, skin and hair. Then you are guaranteed to fatigue, headaches, nausea, and a wide range of chronic diseases.
What is a cleansing diet?
Detox diets are designed to help the body rid itself of toxins. The first step - to stop consuming certain kind of products. You can start, for example, a liquid diet for one or two days. On the fourth and fifth day, add to your diet brown rice, fruits and cooked only for a couple of vegetables. At the end, allow yourself to red meat, eggs and sweets.
In general, the detox diet is based on the consumption of organic products and a large volume of liquid. And that's about alcohol, caffeine, sturdy case, fat, flour and fried to forget.
Here are some popular detox diets:
* Diet for treatment of liver * Diet for Weight Loss * Grape Diet * A diet based on consumption of raw vegetables * Lemonade diet
Jan 20, 2011
Estrogen and asthma
Women suffer from asthma more often than men. Features of bronchial asthma in women are due, in fact, to their gender. In other words, the presence of the female hormone - estrogen. And, therefore, affect these features on a purely women's affairs - pregnancy, menstruation and menopause.
Bronchial asthma is an additional concern for women. In addition to continuous monitoring of exposure to allergens (pollen, dust, mold), which activate the disease, our own female hormone - estrogen, also did not come to our aid - its fluctuations can cause complication breathing, shortness of breath. All this, of course, very annoying and troublesome, but give the disease to take over a top - is also out.
Estrogen and asthma
Actually, estrogen is not "guilty" that the ladies breathe harder. Its level is to be blamed, or more precisely - fluctuations of the level. Stabilize the level of estrogen, can take control of asthma.
Menstrual cycle
Women living with bronchial asthma know that this disease has seasonal exacerbation of their symptoms and know how to pick up signals of an impending revival of the disease. But also to their own menstrual cycle, they must be very careful, because asthma is not only the seasonal cycle, but this - an irregular cycle increases the risk of asthmatic symptoms. And with the regular cycle of hormones "walks" pretty much: just before the monthly level of estrogen is low, and this may lead to exacerbation of asthmatic conditions.
Pregnancy
Most questions and concerns arouses asthma, when it comes to pregnancy. Doctors say that the impact of asthma during pregnancy is completely different, with women from this perspective can be divided into three roughly equal groups: one-third of women are improved, a third - may worsen, and even a third condition is stabilized or remain the same. Experts explain this balance a number of factors, most important of which is, of course, hormones.
It was also noted that asthma may depend on the gestation period. Most women have an exacerbation of disease are observed between 12 and 24 weeks. And at the same time, many report significant improvement in disease in the last 4 weeks before delivery.
Jan 19, 2011
Carbohydrates Provoke Heart Disease In Women
Eating carbohydrate-rich foods increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in women.
And, as Italian scientists have found, carbohydrates are not so harmful for men in comparison with the fair sex.
Italian scientists conducted an experiment that lasted eight years, during which they monitored the health of more than 15,000 men and 32,000 women. Researchers have drawn attention not only on the amount of carbohydrates consumed, but rather on their glycemic index.
As a result, scientists have found that the women who consumed large amount of carbs with high glycemic index twice as likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases. As experts explain, carbohydrates with high glycemic index contribute to increased blood concentrations of fatty acids and lower levels of "good" cholesterol.
In this case, the process of raising blood glucose levels affect hormones: Female - estrogen - accelerates this process, and male - androgen - slows it down. That's why foods high glycemic index are especially dangerous for women, while in men this effect is not observed.
Scientists from the National Cancer Institute of Italy also note that the negative effects on the cardiovascular system has frequent consumption of foods with just a high glycemic index, but not carbohydrates in general. Therefore, the fair sex should closely monitor the sugar content in foods and avoid foods with added sugar too much.
The results of the research were published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine.
Jan 18, 2011
Coffee May Prevent From Diabetes
Scientists have shown that drinking a few cups of coffee a day protects against type 2 diabetes.
Specialists from the University of California, deciphered the molecular mechanism by which coffee can protect against diabetes. The leading role plays a special protein that carries the name: sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). It regulates the concentration in the body of sex hormones, estrogen and testosterone, and has a significant influence on the development of type 2 diabetes.
Previous studies have shown that there is an inverse relationship between coffee consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes. That is, the more coffee drunk, the less risk of developing diabetes. It was believed that caffeine increases the body's tolerance to glucose by increasing its metabolism and increase insulin resistance.
However, new research of American scientists has shown that caffeine has no direct effect on the metabolism of sugar and acts through an intermediary. Specialists surveyed 40,000 women, of whom 359 were diabetic patients, and found that coffee consumption significantly increases the content of SHBG. In addition, it was found that patients who drank at least 4 cups of coffee daily, up to 56% less likely to develop diabetes than those who do not drink this beverage.
In this case, decaffeinated coffee had no significant effect either on the level of SHBG in the blood, not the probability of developing diabetes.
Jan 14, 2011
Stress Enhances Memory
Scientists have found that stressful situations help the process of remembering.
An international team of researchers decided to test this theory on mice. Scientists from the Czech Republic and the United States taught mice to distinguish between left and right turn at the T-maze.
Further laboratory rodents were divided into two groups. For one group created a stressful situation, placing the animal in a container with water from which they had chosen to swim. Mice from the other group was placed in a container partially filled with water, and rodents do not have to resort to swimming.
After some time the mice again forced to walk the labyrinth. It was found that animals from the first group who experienced severe stress, better orientation in the T-maze compared with animals from another group.
According to researchers, stress is the beginning of the process of memories reconsolidation, activating memories and returning them to the state when the transition from short-term memory into long-form has not yet been completed.
Memory again converted into long-form due to the influence of stress hormones. Such a scheme called non-contextual activation of memory.
Researchers hope to use the discovery in the treatment of PTSD.
The results of the study were reported in journal Public Library of Science.
Jan 13, 2011
Green Tea Protects Against Senile Sclerosis
Green tea may be effective in preventing age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
British scientists are engaged in clarifying beneficial properties of green tea. For research by specialists from the University of Newcastle have used green tea extract, as well as a special technology that simulates the human digestive system. To their surprise, researchers found that more than 30 active ingredients of green tea - polyphenols (polyphenols) - retains its activity even after passing the digestive process.
Scientists have continued to experience and test the effectiveness of the extract to the digestion process on laboratoric mice. Scientists were interested in its ability to protect nerve cells from the toxic effects of certain compounds and proteins that provoke the development of dementia. It was found that green tea extract twice reduced the amount of protein beta-amyloid, which leads to Alzheimer's disease.
As study authors note, the assumption that the polyphenols in green tea help for thinking processes was confirmed. Especially useful poliferol flavanols contained in the black and green tea. Flavonols have neuroprotective properties and protect brain cells.
In addition, regular consumption of green tea can prevent cancer, because the substances contained in this beverage, significantly slow down the division of cancer cells.
On the research of scientists from Newcastle told the magazine Phytomedicine.
Jan 12, 2011
Vitamin B Protects Against Cancer
The high concentration of vitamin B6 and methionine reduces the risk of lung cancer.
It is known that deficiency of vitamin B6 increases the possibility of DNA damage and subsequent gene mutations. Consequently, doctors have suggested it may play an important role in the resistance of the organism develop into cancer. Basically it is a substance enters the body with food: it is found in meat, potatoes, fish and integral grains.
In this regard, scientists have proposed using the diet reduce the risk of malignant tumors. The team of scientific experts from the International Agency for Research on Cancer under the leadership of Paul Brennan (Paul Brennan) studied the vitamin B6 and the amino acid methionine in blood samples from 385,747 people who participated in the European prospective study of communications Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC ). Materials for the study were collected in the period from 1992 to 2000. By 2006, lung cancer was diagnosed in 899 participants.
Analysis of the information collected showed that the participants had lower probability to become ill with high levels of vitamin B6. A similar relationship observed between cancer and blood levels of methionine - essential amino acid supplied to the diet. It is interesting that these results are a fact of smoking party has no effect. All among the respondents with the highest levels of methionine and vitamin B6, 129 people fell ill, while in the group with a low content of these substances in the blood of lung cancer struck 408 people.
Nevertheless, this does not prove that vitamin B6 may directly protect against disease. Researchers believe that the levels of nutrients could be higher for people who prefer healthy food, and this in itself could help reduce the risk. Before you can surely be said that an increase in vitamin B6 in the diet may reduce the risk of lung cancer, and also to understand how this happens, further studies are needed. Also need to determine the optimal levels of vitamin B6. But researchers stress that no vitamins can not compensate the harm that smoking causes to health.
Jan 11, 2011
Protect Yourself Against Asthma
German scientists claim that job stress contributes to the development of asthma.
Survey of more than 5000 people aged 40 to 65 years revealed a relationship between the nervous atmosphere in the workplace and the subsequent development of allergic disease. Dr. Adrian Loerbroks and his colleagues at the University of Heidelberg in Germany, conducted a survey concerning health status, lifestyle and working people in the country. To assess the level of stress at work in the questionnaire included questions about how much stress a person feels in the workplace, as is often thought occurs to him about the affairs at the end of the day, how tired he is and how often feels unable to perform their professional duties.
As shown by clinical observations, lasting an average of 8.5 years, those who scored the most points - that is experiencing the most severe stress - most others were suffering from asthma at the beginning of the experiment, and the probability of its development during the period of observation they had two times higher. Speaking of risk, the researchers took into account other factors such as body weight, physical activity, smoking and the presence of asthma in the family.
Scientists also note that the difference in lifestyles of study participants had no impact on morbidity and work stress. The researchers attributed this to changes in the immune and hormonal system, reinforcing the inflammatory reaction of the airways in response to external irritant.
The absolute risk is relatively small - for the entire period of observation asthma was diagnosed in only 2% of employees. Nevertheless, this scientific paper, published in the journal Allergy, became the first in the history of medicine, which find out the effect of labor stress on the incidence of asthma.
Jan 10, 2011
The Secret Of Healthy Aging Revealed
Scientists have published data on what factors help people maintain health in old age.
Specialists of the Institute of Healthy Aging in New Jersey, USA, led by Dr. Rachel Pruchno conducted the study, which was attended by more than five and a half thousand elderly people. The health status of participants (age ranged from 50 to 74 years) was assessed from two perspectives: objective and subjective. Objective view took into account the illnesses of elderly from a medical point of view, and subjective data was believed in that way as the participants evaluated their health. Such an assessment has on a person's life no less impact than objectively observable disease.
Data analysis showed that the most important for maintaining health in old age had levels of education, and most strongly reduced the chances of finding a healthy old age, deferred oncologic diseases. In addition, the chances of health keeping were higher among those who showed moderation in alcohol consumption, was married, had a steady job and was involved in any volunteer work.
But scientists were not satisfied with only one study of modern living conditions of study participants, but also analyzed the data on their young. It turned out that these factors are more important to 50 years, though in old age they may to some extent mitigate the adverse effect of the earlier years of life.
- Aging - is a process of the whole life - says doctor Pruchno. - So, what anility you will meew depends on what you are doing right now.
The results of the study can be found in the journal "The Gerontologist".
Jan 5, 2011
Lose Weight Without Exercises
Researchers found that the body can burn fat by raising body temperature after eating.
The survey, conducted by an international team of scientists, show that the enzyme PI3-kinase has the ability to raise body temperature in response to the receipt of food high in fat. In this way the body burns calories without exercising.
To study the effect of this enzyme in the metabolism scientists have deduced variation mice the level of PI3-kinazs in the brain was reduced. In the experiment, the mice were kept on a diet with high fat content, as well as a group of normal mice with normal levels of the enzyme. Modified mice, in contrast to the usual, quickly gained weight, and, importantly, not because of less moving or eating more. Just in normal mice the influence of PI3-kinase activated the cells of brown adipose tissue responsible for the production of heat.
Adipose tissue is divided into two types: white and brown. Usually when people talk about fat, they mean precisely the white variety. It was she who performs the functions of storing nutrients for a rainy day. Brown also designed fabric, mainly in order to warm the body by burning contained in its cells fatty pellets. In adults, very little brown adipose tissue, so it is rarely mentioned except in special literature.
In this regard, is not yet known how apply this knowledge to human physiology, which, unlike mice, brown adipose tissue is fairly small. Nevertheless, the author of the survey, professor Joel Elmkvist from the University of Texas believes that there is prospects for further research in this area.
- Preliminary research suggests that the human body also increases the temperature when the food arrives too much energy. Perhaps we can find a way to make the body lose weight by simply burning the extra calories - he says.
Jan 3, 2011
Cold Winter Triggers Heart Attack
British scientists have found that cold spell increases the risk of myocardial infarction.
Reducing the ambient temperature affects the work of the heart of older people, especially coronary heart disease. The high temperature does not cause heart muscle damage as evident.
The study was conducted researchers at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (UK). Scientists compared the number of patients admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction, and average daytime temperatures for 2003-2006. During the three-year period across England with the disease have been hospitalized about 84 thousand people, that is, on average, about 60 patients a day. After taking into account additional factors such as air pollution and the activity of viral infections in the data period of the year, it was found that the decrease in temperature increases the number of myocardial infarctions. The statistical methods allowed scientists to suggest that the decrease in temperature during one day by just 1°C will cause an average of 200 cases of myocardial infarction.
It is interesting that to protect against heart attack helped aspirin. Patients who took the drug experienced fewer heart attacks when the temperature of the environment.
Researchers have found another important point. Most sensitive to temperature changes were more elderly people and patients with coronary heart disease, which is considered a harbinger of a heart attack.
The head of the study, Dr. Krishan Baskaran attaches great importance to the data obtained. Of particular importance, they acquire in the current conditions of global climate change, where in some areas of the globe is marked not only warming but cooling.
Dec 30, 2010
The Vaccine Against Obesity?
The unique vaccine will help to lose weight in two sizes in just 6 months.
Unique tool for losing weight was recently introduced by Novo Nordisk company. Employees of pharmaceutical companies have proposed to use for the treatment of obesity the known drug for diabetes Liraglutide.
This hormonal drug is introduced by injection. Liraglutide suppresses appetite by acting on the brain and stop ordering in food intake. In addition, the drug can lower blood pressure, prevent diabetes and improve the level of "good" cholesterol.
The study, which was attended by over 550 people suffering from obesity, showed that the tool helped the subjects lose 2 times more pounds than the other anti-obesity drug Orlistat. Currently, vaccination against obesity is a large-scale trials involving 5000 people. Its results will be known in 2013, after which the treatment may be available for sale.
Treatment of obesity with Liraglutide does not lead to repeated weight gain. In addition to all the benefits of the drug has another one - it can lift the mood, not least the people limit themselves in power.
According to experts, the miracle vaccine will eliminate the need to set the tires, do a resection of the stomach or implant cylinder to suppress excessive appetite.
For more information about the development of scientists, please visit Novo Nordisk company' site.
Dec 29, 2010
Overweight Men Die Earlier
Swedish scientists have once again confirmed the well known fact that excess weight and health are incompatible.
Previously it was thought that middle-aged men are overweight, whose life is not weighed down with so-called metabolic syndrome, the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke is not higher than those whose weight is not exceeded.
However, having surveyed more than 1700 men aged about 30 years, each of whom were overweight or obese, Dr. Johan Arnlov with colleagues from the University of Uppsala (Sweden) have proven that even in the absence of metabolic syndrome risk of heart attack or stroke in obese representatives strong sex is still higher. As was established during the study, among those whose weight exceeds the norm, the probability of occurrence of these life-threatening diseases has increased to 52%, and obesity in the testees increased the risk by 2 times.
- Our study proves the fallacy of the assertion that the presence of overweight and obesity "has no negative impact on health" in the absence of the patient's metabolic syndrome - said Johan Arnlov.
However, researchers emphasized that metabolic syndrome threatens public health even in men with normal weight. Risk of developing heart disease, stroke and related diseases increased by 63%.
As for the male patients with a history of "whole bunch" - overweight, obesity and metabolic syndrome, they are at greatest risk, because it is this group of patients heart disease and stroke in 2.5 times more likely to end fatal. That's why getting rid of extra pounds should be for men a "priority target".
In the future the researchers plan to continue to examine the relationship between obesity, metabolic syndrome and related diseases in women.
Dec 28, 2010
Dairy Products Can Prevent From Diabetes
American scientists have found that part of the special milk fatty acid can protect against type II diabetes.
Employees of the Medical School of Harvard University have studied the effect of dairy products on the health of the cardiovascular system. Large-scale study, which was attended by about 4 000 people, lasted 20 years.
As a result scientists have found that milk, cottage cheese, yogurt and cheese have invaluable benefit to human organism, thanks to their content of trans-palmitoleic acid, which in general can reduce the risk of diabetes and metabolic disorders by 60%. The higher the level of trans-palmitoleic acid in the blood of study participants was, the better were indicators such as cholesterol, insulin and blood markers of inflammation.
Typically, nutritionists recommend limiting consumption of fatty dairy products, but the findings raise questions about the validity of this approach, because the trans-palmitoleic acid, contribute to the improvement of metabolism, it is contained in dairy fats. According to researchers, this component of milk fat may act similarly produced in the body of cis-palmitoleic acid, which effectively treats the development of diabetes.
The future plans of scientists - is to find out whether the trans-palmitoleic acid and preparations based on it to help people who already have developed type II diabetes.
On the research of scientists wrote the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.
Dec 27, 2010
Proper Diet Protects Against Cancer
American researchers have proven that people who use vitamin K reduced the risk of developing cancer of the lymphatic system.
Physicians from the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center in Minnesota (USA) studied the relationship between diet and the possibility of developing cancer. They paid particular attention to vitamin K - this fat-soluble components contained mainly in green vegetables such as onions, lettuce and spinach.
Scientists paid attention to this due to the fact that in recent years there is evidence of new properties of this substance. In particular, the fact that this vitamin, which is considered an important factor in blood clotting, is also able to suppress the activity of inflammatory cytokines associated with the development of lymphomas and cell death.
Lymphoma - a group of diseases of lymphatic tissue, characterized by an increase in lymph node and / or lesions of various organs, where occurs the uncontrolled accumulation of "tumor" of lymphocytes.
In the experiment were involved more than one and a half thousand, 600 of them are diagnosed with lymphoma. They were asked to complete questionnaires according to which testers evaluated the consumption of more than 120 types of products and nutritional supplements in the past two years. Through these questionnaires it was determined intake of vitamin C. It was found that the risk of developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was lower by almost half among those who received more than 108 micrograms of vitamin K per day compared to used it less than 39 micrograms.
It is interesting to note that in the result was determined the difference between obtaining a substance from natural foods and from supplements. It was found that dietary supplements containing this vitamin, although reduced the risk of lymphomas, but only to a certain level. Further increase of the dose in food supplements probability of occurrence of the disease was not reduced, that is, an artificial analog loses effectiveness natural.
Dec 24, 2010
Hair Restoration Leads To Impotence
Consumption of popular drugs for baldness treatment may reduce the production of sperm and worsen erection.
One of the best means to combat Alopecia (hair loss) in the world it is considered the drug Finasteride, known under the brand name Propecia. It actually significantly enhances hair growth and makes them stronger. However, as discovered by doctors from the hospital Allmon in Buenos Aires, while taking this medicine men may experience erection problems. Moreover, the treatment stopping does not guarantee that the difficulties will dissapear.
Scientists led by Dr. Manuel Joya conducted a study involving volunteers who suffer from male-pattern baldness, and found that regular use of medication for two years can lead to impotence.
Basically Propecia is taken by men over 50, who began a course of treatment of baldness often have complains about the problems of a sexual nature. However, at risk are also young men. Recently the media reported a case of impotence in 26-year-old resident of Great Britain, who took Finasteride. Moreover, to improve sexual health failed, even with the help of hormone therapy and the only way for the young Briton was implantation of the implant.
Dec 23, 2010
Computer Working Triggers Obesity
To maintain weight in the norm one should not be distracted during the meal to something extraneous.
Many people prefer to eat while working such as sitting at the computer. However, a recent study found that snacking at the computer leads to the fact that a person begins to overeat during the day, which inevitably leads to the development of obesity. The same danger threatens also fans of snacking while watching TV.
British scientists conducted an experiment which was attended by two groups of volunteers. Participants from the first group were to play solitaire on the computer while trying 9 different dishes. Another group proposed to dine without being distracted by the game. The experiment showed that, while at the computer screen, people ate more and did not feel saturation.
After half an hour after meals to volunteers from both groups were proposed cookies. In this portion of "players" were two times more than the participants, had lunch in a peaceful atmosphere.
Researchers at Bristol University have found that to maintain weight in the normal should not be distracted during the meal to something extraneous. The experiment showed that such a distraction can also affect the next meal. According to scientists, computer work makes us forget what we ate and in what sequence, thus delaying the saturation.
- Memoirs of a recent meal, and determine the choice of further courses. At the same time, the distraction during a meal leads to increased eaten portions. Therefore, if we do not remember that you have eaten for lunch, then we eat more to the dinner, - says head of research Jeff Branstrom.
Dec 22, 2010
The Most Ridiculous Way To Lose Weight
The famous saying "Laughter prolongs life" was confirmed by scientists.
It turned out that the laughter has a beneficial effect on the organism as a whole and in certain conditions can even replaced fitness. Studies have shown that laughter can lower blood pressure, stress levels and even improve the immune system, thus helping to prolong life.
Researchers from Georgia State University conducted an experiment in which volunteers were showed videos of different laughing people.
Video viewing had the same impact on the body of the experiment participantsthat sport and exercise. Participants had decreased stress level, had increased amount of T-lymphocytes in the blood and decreased blood pressure.
But it turned out to be useful not any laughter. The most positive emotions evoked rolling female laughter with widely open mouth. Simple giggle with closed lips, on the contrary, caused fewer positive emotions.
- We react emotionally when we hear sounds of laughter - said Professor Michael Owren. - It's irresponsible answer, which is produced throughout life and has an important influence on how we interpret the laughter in everyday life ... In my opinion, the sound of laughter - is a fundamental mechanism for constructing and maintaining public relations.
American researchers reported about the study in the journal PLoS.
Dec 21, 2010
Scientists Found Out How We Should Eat
Sticking to the "Western" style of eating increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.
This is the conclusion of researchers at the University of Medical Sciences in Isfahan (Iran), who studied the relationship between dietary habits and risk of metabolic disorders and other diseases.
In the scientific study participated 425 people aged 35 to 55 years old, who were offered to fill in special forms to identify their dietary preferences. Researchers have identified five basic food models, that are conventionally called the "Western", "vegetarian", "balanced", "milk fat" and "vegetable-chicken." After this, the scientists assessed how each of the diets influences the expression of components of metabolic syndrome.
In the western-style diet are present sweets, butter, carbonated beverages, sugar, baked food, processed meats, fats and eggs. This diet significantly increased the risk of high blood triglycerides and blood pressure.
Balanced diet meant eating fish, peas, honey, nuts, juices, fruits and vegetables and almost did not contain hydrogenated fats. It helps to reduce blood levels of "bad" cholesterol associated with low density lipids.
Vegetarian diet includes plenty of fruits high in vitamin C and A, green vegetables, rice, beans and potatoes. However, despite these useful products, this food increased the risk of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism.
The two remaining style food: milk fat and vegetable-chicken - did not affect the risk of any manifestations of the metabolic syndrome.
The head of the research, a dietitian Maryam Zare said that the eating habits are influenced by a variety of factors. It's the cultural and ethnic differences, religious beliefs, food availability and economic situation. However, with great confidence we can assert that "western style" food, so widespread among modern humans, significantly increases the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. But the balanced diet, which, alas, is found not so often, reduces the risk.
Dec 20, 2010
Genetic Therapy Can Help Maintain Vision
U.S. scientists develop a new approach to treating age-related macular degeneration.
Now for the treatment of macular degeneration by gene therapy using viruses that carry DNA into cells. Although this method is quite efficient, it can lead to the development of the immune response, inflammation, cancer and even death.
Therefore, researchers are looking for new methods, not based on the use of viruses. Researchers from Tufts University have tried to solve this problem by using nanoparticles. Due to their small size they can penetrate the cell and protect the DNA, preventing the death of retinal cells and save the eyesight.
Yellow spot - is a place of greatest visual acuity in the retina.
I specially bred mice, researchers have caused the degeneration of the retina, similar to that found in humans. Then spent mice treated with nanoparticles carrying the gene encoding GDNF (glia-derived neurotrophic factor) - a protein that protects the photosensitive cells of the eye. Thanks to the treatment the retina loses less of photosensitive cells that helps maintain visual acuity. However, the protective effect that has been made of gene transfer was temporary and disappeared within two weeks after treatment.
Age-related macular degeneration leads to loss of clear, central vision and is the leading cause of visual impairment among people aged 60 and older.
"The next step is to ensure that the therapeutic effect lasted longer, adding to this a special DNA elements" - the researchers reported.
The results obtained can help researchers to develop new, safe treatments for degenerative diseases of the eye.
Work has been published on the website of the journal "Molecular Therapy".
Dec 17, 2010
Fractures Can Be Treated With "Liquid Bones"
Scientists have come up with an alternative to metal structures and prostheses used in fractures. To restore the bone structure, they propose to use quickly-hardening nanomaterial, which is injected into the broken bone.
Plastic material got the name "liquid bone", and is intended for introduction into the damaged area of bone tissue by injection. At room temperature, this substance is a liquid, but if it enters the body and the temperature is raised to 37 ° C it freezes for a few seconds, forming a solid structure that fills bone defects.
Each molecule of this drug has a pair of covalent bonds that connect it with other molecules. Over time, in its place a new bone tissue is formned due to the fact that the synthetic molecule "of liquid bones" researchers have laid the growth factor of bone tissue.
To facilitate the healing process researchers led by Thomas Webster from Brown University and in the size of the molecules of the new material special antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents.
- We are satisfied that our hardening of the material requires nothing except temperature, - said Webster. Previously used materials required for the setting of ultraviolet irradiation, this is why they could not be given by injection.
The new material has already passed the laboratory tests and in the near future, scientists plan to begin clinical studies. The sale of the "liquid bones" may come as early as 2013.
About this development is reported in the press release at Brown University.
Dec 16, 2010
Purple Berries Protect Multiple Sclerosis
The researchers found that eating purple berries and fruits may protect against
dangerous diseases and to maintain the activity of the brain.
In particular, employees of the University of Manchester led by Professor Douglas Kell have shown that purple fruits such as blueberries, are able to protect against such diseases as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.
Due to certain substances in purple berries they absorb harmful compounds of iron. Meanwhile, namelly iron compounds trigger the production of dangerous toxins that damage the body. These toxins, called hydroxyl radicals that destroy the cells, causing a variety of degenerative diseases such as senile dementia.
According to scientists, the main role in this process are included in the berries of purple coloring specific iron chelators, which are tightly associated with the item, and release its toxins. Nearly the same effect have antioxidants in green tea, but "purple" are much more effective.
Vitamin C is also very effective against the toxins, but its excess can have the opposite effect.
- Modern biology is mainly concentrated on studies of the role of different genes in the development of diseases. At the same time underestimated the importance of iron as a special gene for the iron does not exist - Kelly said. - In my work I underlied the importance of this area for further research.
The authors, who described the findings in the journal Archives of Toxicology hope that their discovery will help in developing new approaches to the treatment of certain serious diseases.
Dec 15, 2010
Tissue Obtained From Stem Cells
Scientists have shown the world's first full-fledged human organ tissue created from stem cells.
Scientists at the Medical Center of Cincinnati Children's Hospital under the leadership of James Wells took embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent for comparison of possible transplantation of tissues derived from them. Surgical X-rays and additional molecules have helped professionals to simulate in the laboratory conditions the growth of tissues at the embryonic stage of human development.
After 28 days were obtained three-dimensional tissue structure that reflects the structure of intestinal tissue baby in the womb. Tissues functioned normally and contained all necessary cell types.
- The work is unique in its kind, because it clearly proves that the induced pluripotent stem cells in vitro can be transformed into the tissue of the human body with three-dimensional structure and composition of intestinal tissue. Hopefully, this development in the future will save people from terrible diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis, short bowel syndrome, inflammatory diseases of this organ, - said study leader James Wells.
Stem cells can become any cell of the body. An adult human doesn't practically have such cells, because the basic number of stem cells is formed at the stage of the embryo. At the moment, scientists around the world are developing several technologies to obtain stem cells from adult tissues. In particular, cells derived from the skin are called induced pluripotent.
Dec 14, 2010
Rudeness Leads To Hypertension
British scientists have figured out what life situations most often cause raising of blood pressure.
Statistics show that over 40 percent of the adult population of our planet suffers from high blood pressure. Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because the disease can occur without clear-cut symptoms. About half of people suffering from hypertension, do not even know about it. It is necessary to know your blood pressure to avoid other serious problems. After all, high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart attack, stroke, disorders of the kidneys.
Rotary International - the oldest and most influential international association of business people and leading experts. The motto of the organization - "Service To Society Is Above Yourself." To convince people in the need to control blood pressure, experts of the British company YouGov, which specializes in marketing research, commissioned by the Stroke Association, Rotary International and First Aid conducted a study to find out what life situations contribute to the rise of pressure. Using the Internet, were polled more than 2000 people. 92 percent of them have confirmed that in everyday life there are situations that cause irritation and rise in blood pressure.
'Record-breakers' among the causes of high pressure were bad manners and rudeness. They make nervous 79 percent of the respondents. In second place are long queues, which irritate 66 percent of the people. On the third - bad driving, negatively affecting the well-being of 61 percent of respondents. The list of annoying events also included a loud conversation on a cell phone (40%) and reality shows (32%). Moreover, men get more irritated by the shows more than women (38% vs. 27%).
Darth Laura (Laura Dart), deputy director of the Stroke Association, said that up to 40% of strokes could be avoided if the time was put on treatment of hypertension.
Dec 9, 2010
Soybeans Can Save Children Lives
Soybeans can save children from deadly disease.
British researchers claim that the chemical compound of natural origin which is present in soybeans, can be used to treat a genetic disease affecting mainly children.
Employees of the University of Manchester have found that genistein, a substance derived from soybeans, helps people with syndrome Sanfilippo.
Sanfilippo - is an incurable mucopolysaccharide disease (MPS) affecting one child from 100.000.
Sanfilippo syndrome - a complex of congenital anomalies, including mental retardation, thickening of the skull bones, liver enlargement, abnormal change in the shape of the lumbar vertebrae. In this disease there is an increase of acid mucopolysaccharides in urine.
"Children with Sanfilippo syndrome in early childhood suffer deterioration of mental functions, resembling dementia. In this case, there are other symptoms, including severe behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, which results in death within the first ten years of life "- said Dr. Biggar, author of the study.
During the experiment, scientists from the lab of stem cells in the first nine months fed mice suffering from the disease with food in which were added high doses of genistein. Such diet contributed to severe retardation of mental degeneration, including reducement of a third part of additional sugar produced in the brain as a result of the disease and reducement of inflammation in the brain.
Genistein treatment also helped to cope with behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, which occur in patients with Sanfilippo syndrome.
Dec 8, 2010
Infidelity Is Genetically Determined
American scientists have discovered why some people are more likely to lead sexually promiscuous life.
Scientists from the New York State University in Binghamton found that a genetic mutation pushes a promiscuous man. The study's authors argue that the causer of family turmoil is the gene DRD4, associated with the dopamine receptor D4.
Researchers from the Laboratory of Evolutionary Anthropology and Health guided by Justin Garcia collected data on sex life of 181 volunteers who were taken DNA samples. Comparing the patterns and history of the sexual adventures of the experiment participants, the researchers found that a variant of the DRD4 gene doubles the propensity of the person to adventurous sexual behavior.
People are pushed to the depraved behavior by structural feature of the pleasures and rewards in the brain. Release of dopamine, which accompanies risk-taking behavior, gives owner of a unique gene more pleasure than others have.
Dopamine - is a substance that releases while waiting for the pleasure and immediately after the goal achievement and determines the ability to enjoy life.
But do not to explain all love adventures only with genetic causes. Scientists emphasize that not all people with this variation of the DRD4 are prone to treachery. At the same time people who have not this genotype are cheating more frequently.
Dopamine receptors in the body is responsible for receiving pleasure. Previously, researchers had already found the link between dopamine receptors and the tendency of people to seek thrills, open to new social contacts, political liberalism, as well as addiction to alcohol, gambling and horror movies.
The work of researchers is reported in the magazine of the Public Library of Science (PLoS ONE).
Dec 7, 2010
Health Depends On Month Of Birth
Scientific studies prove that the time of the year in which the birth occurs, affects the "biological clock" of the body. While those born in the winter season may be faced with disturbances of biological rhythms that affect their health.
Researchers from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee (USA) studied the effect of the duration of daylight on the health of the mice that were grown in the laboratory. Newborn rodents were divided into three groups. Animals from the first years of living under a light mode - 16 hours of daylight and 8 hours dark. Specimens from the second group got in the winter light conditions - 8 hours of daylight and 16 night. Animals from the control group received 12 daytime and nighttime hours.
When the mice got matured, the scientists transferred them into comfortable for them conditions of constant darkness and began to observe their behavior. As a result, it was found out that mice raised in conditions of summer light did not respond to changes in the "season". Every day, they were active for 10 hours, then rested for 4 hours. Rodents kept this rhythm, regardless of the duration of the night time.
Mice born in the winter time, followed a similar regime, but their activity begins one hour before the "sunset" and lasted for 12 hours. However, these animals are slow to adjust to new conditions.
Such behavior of the mice born in the winter, according to scientists, is much similar to seasonal affective disorder in humans, also known as "winter gloom." It is known that people born in the winter months, increases the risk of developing mental disorders such as schizophrenia, say doctors. This risk may be associated with the violation of the biological clock, which was originally set up for "winter" mode.
"We found out that the behavior of mice programm initial light conditions. Animals that have come in the winter, had a tendency to a longer rest, it was hard to adapt them to daylight lighting mode", - said study author Douglas Makmaon (Douglas McMahon).
"The most amazing thing is that regime change affects both the behavior of animals, as well as the cyclic activity of neurons in the main biological clock of the brain", - said one of the authors of the study Chris Ciarleglio.
About this study, the researchers reported in an article published in the journal Nature Neuroscience.
Dec 6, 2010
Female Schizophrenics Are Smarter Than Men
Schizophrenia occurs in different ways in men and women.
A recent study of Canadian researchers found that the brains of men and women suffering from schizophrenia are significantly different. In this case, female schizophrenics appeared to be smarter than men suffering from this disease.
During the experiment, patients with schizophrenia, men and women were supposed to rotate in the mind a three-dimensional image. The researchers assessed how well the participants coped with this task using magnetic resonance imaging. As a result, found that mentally ill women performed better this task than male patients.
Schizophrenia - is a mental disorder that is characterized by abnormalities in the perception of reality, or its reflection.
"Of great importance are the hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, - says head of research Adrianne Mendrek, Professor, University of Montreal. - As a result of previous studies it has been shown that testosterone is responsible for muscle strength and mass in healthy men, but this hormone has no such effect on healthy women. At the same time, women suffering from schizophrenia, had raised levels of this hormone.
Even resting the brain of men and women work differently. The activity of certain brain areas active at rest, was more pronounced in women than in men, the researchers found.
The research is reported in a recent issue of the journal Schizophrenia Research.
Dec 3, 2010
Pathogenic Viruses
Pathogenic Viruses Are Stronger Then Household Detergents
American scientists have found that almost 40% of the disinfectants are ineffective against noroviruses that cause gastrointestinal illnesses.
These organisms are spread through direct contact with the sick person, as well as through contaminated objects, food or surfaces. Since this group of viruses can cause epidemic outbreaks, the researchers tested the effectiveness of decontamination agents which are used for processing in catering and at home.
A team of researchers from Laval University, led by Professor Julia Jean checked the effectiveness of disinfecting liquids, belonging to the three main categories of household chemical reagents: chlorine substances based on alcohol and ammonia.
In the result it turned out that five minutes after the surface handling of the first solution concentration of these species on the surface of stainless steel decreased by a factor of 1,000, while the other two were 100 times less effective in destroying viruses.
- We are very concerned because nearly 40% of disinfectants available commercially, are based on alcohol or ammonia - commented Professor Jean.
In addition, it became clear that malicious viruses need only ten minutes to take hold on a flat stainless steel, after which they may remain there for several weeks and infect anyone who touches that surface. Other materials have not been tested, but it is likely that the results would be the same.
Article devoted to a study is published in the Journal of Food Protection.
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