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Be that person who is always in the know about medicine & health!

Women’s Health

A Canadian study has found that pregnant women who receive COVID-19 vaccination produce high levels of antibodies against the virus, and the vaccine is safe during pregnancy. The study involved over 200 women in their second or third trimester who received either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Researchers found that the women who received the vaccine had high levels of antibodies against the virus, which were also passed on to their babies through the placenta and breast milk. No adverse pregnancy or neonatal outcomes were reported in the study. The findings suggest that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can provide protection against the virus for both the mother and the baby. The study provides important information for pregnant women who are considering COVID-19 vaccination and their healthcare providers. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women and their babies.

➡️ Original Source: here.

Heart Health

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that the "good" cholesterol, known as HDL, may not actually be as beneficial for heart health as previously thought. The study analyzed genetic data from over 100,000 individuals and found that genetic variants associated with higher levels of HDL did not result in a lower risk of heart disease. The study's authors suggest that this may be because HDL has several subtypes with different functions, and previous studies may not have differentiated between them. The findings highlight the need for more research to understand the complex role of HDL in heart health and to develop new treatments that target specific HDL subtypes. In the meantime, the study's authors emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, to reduce the risk of heart disease.

➡️ Original Source: here.

Biomed Advancements

Science News reported on five biomedical advances that made 2022 feel like a science fiction year. First, researchers created a "brain glue" that can help nerve cells regenerate and repair damage, which could lead to new treatments for spinal cord injuries and other conditions. Second, scientists developed a machine-learning tool that can predict a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by analyzing brain scans. Third, researchers found that using light to activate certain neurons in the brain can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Fourth, a new gene-editing technique called prime editing was developed, which can make more precise and efficient changes to DNA. Finally, researchers created artificial organs, including a functioning heart and lung, using 3D printing and other advanced technologies. These advances demonstrate the potential of biomedical research to improve human health and well-being in ways that were once thought impossible.

➡️ Original Source: here.

Anti-Inflammatories and Chronic Pain

In an article published by McGill University, a study has shown that blocking inflammation in the body may actually lead to chronic pain. The study found that when inflammation was blocked in mice, it led to an increase in the activity of microglia, immune cells in the spinal cord and brain that play a role in pain sensation. This increase in microglial activity caused hypersensitivity to pain, even after the inflammation was resolved. The researchers suggest that this phenomenon may also occur in humans and could explain why some patients continue to experience pain even after inflammation has been treated. The findings suggest that inflammation plays a complex role in pain and that treatments targeting inflammation should be carefully evaluated to avoid unintended consequences. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential implications for chronic pain treatment.

➡️ Original Source: here.

Neat to Know!

Sleep expert Matthew Walker believes that melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep, can be a useful tool for improving sleep quality, but it should be used with caution. He suggests that melatonin is most effective when used in small doses and for short periods of time, such as when traveling across time zones or dealing with temporary sleep disruptions. However, he warns against relying on melatonin as a long-term solution for sleep problems, as it can disrupt the body's natural production of the hormone and lead to dependence. Instead, he recommends focusing on improving sleep hygiene and creating a healthy sleep environment to promote natural, restorative sleep. Watch the video for additional insight!

➡️ Original Source: here.

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