sábado, 30 de marzo de 2024

Borrowing an idea from cancer immunotherapy, scientists make old-mice immune systems youthful again Megan Molteni By Megan Molteni March 27, 2024

Scientists rejuvenate immune systems in old mice https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/27/immune-system-rejuvenated-stanford-research-aging-stem-cells/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300173672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9LdG7gS0Q3u_zaRNd_Ugi1rSDc4Ir4V1dpQSdFWM-MQAMo28haur2UIdSVQS9rJk2D1NM5dfr4C8LnJ5-AzXHrKLCkpQ&utm_content=300173672&utm_source=hs_email The “twilight of immunity” has a much more poetic flavor than almost any other phrase describing our bodies’ deterioration with age. STAT’s Megan Motleni calls this to mind in today’s story about research seeking to explain how our aging immune systems leave us more vulnerable to infection. Reporting in Nature yesterday on their experiments in mice, scientists traced waning immune strength to the bone marrow where blood and immune cells originate from hematopoietic stem cells. The balance of immune memory cells, blood cells, and front-line defenders shifts over time depending on what kind of cells are produced, with an impact on how well they work against invaders. When the scientists restored a youthful balance of these cells with injections of antibodies, they were able to rejuvenate the immune systems of older mice — allowing them to better fend off viral attacks. Megan has more on whether and how this might hold up in humans, plus the rich history behind the work. The twilight of immunity: emerging concepts in aging of the immune system https://www.nature.com/articles/s41590-017-0006-x?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300173672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_8_7-bdRPRkAC9muXhMech-1XmROmeiGH-g9A3HMGcz-3P7-ltlXDTxVdIqrDQfqcz0TvkuOp46w75g-wENid4HA-3HQ&utm_content=300173672&utm_source=hs_email Depleting myeloid-biased haematopoietic stem cells rejuvenates aged immunity https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07238-x?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300173672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8CYY00ZS6n1GguktPXtSQiFvQi1geeKJa1vHJ4nRtYKBxQ1z6z_8R9UgfMYlCXhv92ef4zo0NQiPqy1oX1odOPdOPU4A&utm_content=300173672&utm_source=hs_email

Covid’s scientific silver lining: A chance to watch the human immune system respond in real time Helen Branswell By Helen Branswell March 28, 2024

https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/28/covid-immune-system-response/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300173672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-95Agty6VUArBCC-UeJ8eS99pwg_JSOIn8ZHfrhuj5IPCi1AshMiFzNAiHqZQjL5csjc6Wi7HyMqQ9ZjNndInDspvgUTg&utm_content=300173672&utm_source=hs_email Immunologists would never deny Covid-19’s worldwide devastation, but if you look through their eyes back to 2020, when the disease still had no name but was spreading across the world, you’ll see a silver lining. For a window of time that has now closed, they could watch what happened when 8 billion people were exposed to a novel coronavirus. They had a front-row seat to witness how we developed immunity to the virus — and its variants — at a cellular level. Pandemics have emerged before, but this time scientists had the tools to study how the immune system awakens to a new threat and develops defenses against it. “You see textbook immunology happening in real time,” said Marc Veldhoen, a professor of immunology at the University of Lisbon. “You couldn't have designed a better experiment,” said Stephen Deeks, an HIV researcher at the University of California, San Francisco. STAT’s Helen Branswell tells us what they did with this opportunity — and what they learned.

REGISTER FOR FREE CE/CMEs | April 04, 2024 DHA, CCSS, “Evidence-Based and Promising Practices in Pediatric Care for Military Children and Youth" Live Event | 6.5 FREE CE/CME Credits

Greetings, https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/USMHS/2024/03/28/file_attachments/2829365/DHA_J-7_CEPO_04APR24-CCSS-REGFlyer_vF_2024-3-27.pdf Registration is OPEN for the upcoming Clinical Communities Speaker Series (CCSS), "Evidence-Based and Promising Practices in Pediatric Care for Military Children and Youth” occurring on April 4th, 2024, 8:55 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (ET). This live event offers up to 6.5 Continuing Education/Continuing Medical Education (CE/CME) credits. Register here: https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/2024-apr-ccss https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/2024-apr-ccss Purpose The Defense Health Agency (DHA), J-7, Continuing Education Program Office (CEPO) Clinical Communities Speaker Series (CCSS) events are designed to address the professional practice gaps of our learners to improve the care that our health care professionals deliver. This continuing education (CE)/continuing medical education (CME) event is conducted to achieve results that reflect a change in skills, competence, and performance of the health care team, and patient outcomes. Collaboration occurs with the Department of Defense, several government agencies, and other civilian experts for recruitment of academic subject matter experts (SMEs), clinicians, and researchers to present on current promising, evidence-based research and best practices, thus enhancing the overall educational experience. Participants are expected to apply what they learned in providing patient care individually and collaboratively as a team towards improved patient outcomes. Target Audience This activity is designed to meet the educational needs of Physicians, Nurses, Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Physician Assistants, Optometrists, Social Workers, Audiologists, Speech Language Pathologists, Psychologists, Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Technicians, Registered Dieticians, Dietetic Technicians, Athletic Trainers, Case Managers, Certified Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants, Physical Therapists/Physical Therapist Assistants, Kinesiotherapists, and Healthcare Executives. This activity is also approved for physicians who are board certified with the American Board of Pediatrics and other health care professionals who support/care for U.S. active-duty service members, reservists, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, National Guardsmen, military veterans, and their families. Program Overview This event will explore the evidence-based practices in the care of the pediatric patient through educational content created by military and civilian Subject Matter Experts specializing in bioethics, research, healthcare, and academia. Each session is designed to refine the quality of care, achieve the best outcomes, and improve population health in children and youth. Attending this continuing education opportunity will advance the practice, skills, and knowledge of the pediatric care provider in service to children and youth engaged in the military and civilian healthcare and education system. Program Agenda 8:55 - 9:00 a.m. (ET) - Welcome Remarks Lolita T. O’Donnell, Ph.D., M.S.N., R.N. Division Chief Leadership Education Analysis Development Sustainment (LEADS) Division Academic Superintendent, Continuing Education Program Office (CEPO), Education and Training (E&T) Directorate, J-7 Defense Health Agency (DHA) Falls Church, Va. 9:00 – 9:10 a.m. (ET) - Opening Remarks Gregory Leskin, Ph.D. Director, The National Child Traumatic Stress Network Military and Veteran Families and Children & Academy on Child Traumatic Stress University of California, Los Angeles/Duke University, National Center for Child Traumatic Stress Los Angeles, Ca. Moderator Army Col. Joseph May, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.A.P., F.A.C.C. Chief, Department of Pediatrics Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Associate Professor of Pediatrics Uniform Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Md. 09:10 –10:10 a.m. (ET) - S01: "Overdiagnosis or Underdiagnosis? Considerations for Diagnosing and Treating ADHD and Autism" Jennifer A. Ulbricht, Ph.D. Behavioral Health Clinical Management Team Medical Affairs DHA Falls Church, Va. 10:20 – 11:20 a.m. (ET) - S02: “Or At Least Do No Harm: The Complexities of Pediatric Healthcare Ethics” Theophil A. Stokes, M.D. Medical Director, Neonatology, Howard University Hospital Associate Chief, Division of Regional Hospital Based Specialties Children's National Hospital Associate Professor of Pediatrics, The George Washington University School of Medicine, and Health Sciences Washington, DC 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (ET) - S03: “Pediatric Immunizations: Current and Future Considerations” Cecilia Mikita, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.A.A.A.I. Medical Director North Atlantic Region Vaccine Safety Hub DHA Public Health (DHA-PH) Immunization Healthcare Division Bethesda, Md. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos, M.D., M.P.H. Medical Officer Center for Disease Control and Prevention Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses Division Atlanta, Ga. 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (ET) - S04: "Mental Health Needs Amongst Military Children and Youth: Strategies to Improve Access and Outcomes” Mary Acri, Ph.D. Chief, Child and Adolescent Services Research Program and Clinical Epidemiology Branch Division of Services and Intervention Research National Institute of Mental Health Bethesda, Md. 3:10 – 4:10 p.m. (ET) - S05: "The Millennium Cohort Program: Understanding Risk and Context in the Life Course of the Military Child” Hope Seib McMaster, Ph.D. Principal Investigator, Millennium Cohort Family Study and Study of Adolescent Resilience Naval Health Research Center San Diego, Ca. Sabrina Richardson, Ph.D. Research Psychologist for the Millennium Cohort Program NHRC San Diego, Ca. 4:20 – 5:20 p.m. (ET) - S06: "Addressing Problematic Technology Use in Children and Youth” Navy Lt. Cmdr. Nathan R. Moon, Psy.D., A.B.P.P. Clinical Child Psychologist Educational and Developmental Services Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Center Okinawa Okinawa, Japan 5:20 – 5:30 p.m. (ET) - Closing Remarks Army Col. Maria Molina, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., F.A.C.S., C.H.S.E. Acting Director, J-7, Education and Training Defense Health Agency Falls Church, Va. This agenda is subject to change. Please visit the following website to register: https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/2024-apr-ccss Continuing Education This CE/CME activity is provided through the DHA J-7 CEPO and is approved for a total of 6.5 CE/CMEs. Commercial Support No commercial support was provided for this activity. Participation Costs There is no cost to participate in this activity. CE/CME Inquiries For all CE/CME related inquiries, please contact us at: dha.ncr.j7.mbx.cepo-cms-support@health.mil V/r, DHA, J-7, CEPO

Transforming Mental Health Implementation Research

The Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Transforming Mental Health Implementation Research Published: March 26, 2024 Effective approaches exist to prevent and treat mental illness and to promote mental health but most people who could benefit from evidence-based interventions (policies, programmes, and individual-level practices or services) do not receive them. Too often, research produces interventions and implementation strategies that are difficult to scale owing to misalignment with the political, cultural, policy, system, community, provider, and individual realities of real-world settings. This Commission considers strategies for transforming how research is done to produce more actionable evidence. It examines how to integrate research and real-world implementation; centre equity in mental health intervention and implementation research; apply a complexity science lens to mental health research; expand designs beyond the randomised clinical trial; and value transdisciplinarity across endeavours. Most mental health implementation research has been done in high-income countries but the Commission’s recommendations incorporate research from low-income and middle-income countries and call for strategies to expand mental health implementation research globally. https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/implementation-mental-health?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_lanpsymentalhealthresearch24&utm_campaign=update-lanpsy&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300103241&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--P4PPvZC_yPuG6DDEw6sPN4F2DHr58ub7bBvfoRMvgbFfgK0mumLs_F_6xL0CoD7UHhotVAi05rqeikPaj1kNovRZcnQ&utm_content=300031254&utm_source=hs_email

Decoding the Mind: Basic Science Revolutionizes Treatment of Mental Illnesses

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/director/messages/2024/decoding-the-mind-basic-science-revolutionizes-treatment-of-mental-illnesses?utm_campaign=75&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govd The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is committed to supporting research on basic neuroscience, genetics, and basic behavioral science. These are foundational pillars in the quest to decode the human mind and unravel the complexities of mental illnesses. To learn about some of our greatest achievements conducting genomics research, read our guest-written Director's message from NIMH's Division of Neuroscience and Basic Behavioral Science. They explain how their efforts connecting genes to cells to circuits to behavior have led to a wealth of discoveries and knowledge that can improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses.

FOLLOWING ‘LIFE’S ESSENTIAL 8’ COULD SLOW AGING BY 6 YEARS!

Following ‘Life’s Essential 8’ Could Slow Aging By 6 Years! By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 7, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32889&preview=1&_ppp=80c40ef554

PREVENTING PITCHING INJURIES: REWRITING THE HIGH SCHOOL RULEBOOK

Preventing Pitching Injuries: Rewriting the High School Rulebook By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 6, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32886&preview=1&_ppp=1bc175b1b0

BACK TO BASICS TO BOOST BRAIN HEALTH

Your brain allows you to think, feel, communicate, make decisions, and live a productive life. That’s why it is important to keep it healthy. And that starts by adding some good brain habits to your normal daily routine Back to Basics to Boost Brain Health By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 5, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32880&preview=1&_ppp=73e6da2e57

WALKING VS. RUNNING: WHICH IS BETTER?

Exercise is good for your body, but does it matter how you move? Before putting on those tennis shoes and hitting the trail, hear what research has to say on the topic. Walking vs Running: Which Is Better? By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 4, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32877&preview=1&_ppp=cccec6f715

ROBOTIC PUPPIES ARE THERAPEUTIC ALSO!

Studies indicate children who spend more time with therapy dogs can lower stress even more than relaxation exercises. But what happens when there are not enough therapy dogs? One hospital may have the solution with the help of Otis, Max, and Stride. Robotic Puppies Are Therapeutic Also! By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 3, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32873&preview=1&_ppp=bf5e0773fc

PDD: THE DEPRESSION YOU MAY NEVER HAVE HEARD OF

Do you have ongoing feeling of sadness? It could be linked to a mild form of depression that can last a long time. Now, with the right diagnoses, doctors are helping turn those frowns upside down. PDD: The Depression You May Never Have Heard Of By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 2, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32871&preview=1&_ppp=bf762ec736

EARLY PANCREATIC CANCER DETECTION GIVES PATIENTS AN ADVANTAGE

It’s one of the deadliest cancers and it’s on the rise. It’s also increasing more rapidly in women than in men. Find out how a chance at survival could be lurking in your genes Early Pancreatic Cancer Detection Gives Patients an Advantage By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on April 1, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32868&preview=1&_ppp=ca15a241e6

Wireless, light-powered pacemaker shines bright in animal study

Wireless, light-powered pacemaker shines bright in animal study: While pacemakers have treated many patients with heart rhythm disorders, their bulky design and use of wires limits their usefulness and poses a risk of heart damage or infection. Now, researchers have cut the cords, shrunk the size, and expanded the capabilities of current designs.

What are the health costs of air pollution, and what can we do about it?

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/what-are-the-health-costs-of-air-pollution-and-what-can-we-do-about-it Have you ever noticed the hazy smog that hangs over cities or the lingering smell of exhaust fumes from traffic? These are just a few noticeable signs of air pollution, a threat that can have a significant effect on our health and well-being.

Hotter days put human health at risk Climate change and rising temperatures can affect your body in many ways

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/hotter-days-put-human-health-at-risk?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Extreme heat and unpredictable weather patterns are big news around the world. But did you know that climate change is not just a concern for scientists? It’s also worrying doctors. Warmer global temperatures cause many environmental changes. These include droughts, increased risk of wildfires, more extreme temperatures, warmer oceans, and stronger storms. These changes can contribute to water-borne illnesses, infectious diseases spread by animals—especially insects such as ticks and mosquitoes—and

Too loud and too bright! Noise and light pollution's effects on your health

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/too-loud-and-too-bright?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Noise pollution Every day you are surrounded by sounds from your environment, including the TV, radio, appliances, and traffic. Noise pollution is unwanted or bothersome sound. In some cases, noise pollution can be loud enough to damage the ear and contribute to hearing loss. Noise pollution can also disrupt sleep and contribute to chronic stress. These issues have been associated with health conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and

Finding Forever Chemicals Wherever They’re Hiding

https://www.nist.gov/feature-stories/finding-forever-chemicals-wherever-theyre-hiding They’re called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, a group of thousands of compounds that contain a chemical bond between fluorine and carbon. That bond has proved to be one of the most stable and unbreakable known to chemistry — a fact baked into the common nickname “forever chemicals,” because once PFAS are created, they last a very long time. First manufactured in the 1940s, PFAS have seeped into our daily lives, and our bodies. In recent years, they have emerged as a serious public health concern. Scientists have reported evidence that certain PFAS, at high enough concentrations, may harm health by suppressing the immune system or causing cancers, obesity, thyroid problems and birth defects. How Do You Measure Forever Chemicals? https://www.nist.gov/how-do-you-measure-it/how-do-you-measure-forever-chemicals

Stem Cell Changes Rejuvenate Immune System in Aged Mice

https://www.niaid.nih.gov/news-events/immune-system?utm_campaign=+59960585&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term= Stem Cell Changes Rejuvenate Immune System in Aged Mice NIAID, Stanford Exploring Potential for Revitalizing Human Immunity Aging is associated with a reduced ability to generate immune responses against novel infections, as was recently illustrated by the high mortality among older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a mouse model of human aging and disease, NIAID scientists and Stanford University colleagues have shown that immune systems of aged laboratory mice can be made more youthful and effective at fighting disease by depleting a subset of haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The researchers think the method they developed may have potential for rejuvenating immunity in elderly people and are pursuing further study. Their findings are published in Nature.

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT https://www.foxnews.com/health/intermittent-fasting-linked-higher-risk-heart-related-death-study

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: translating genetic discoveries into therapies

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37024676/ From the abstract: "Recent advances in sequencing technologies and collaborative efforts have led to substantial progress in identifying the genetic causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This momentum has, in turn, fostered the development of putative molecular therapies. In this Review, we outline the current genetic knowledge, emphasizing recent discoveries and emerging concepts such as the implication of distinct types of mutation, variability in mutated genes in diverse genetic ancestries and gene–environment interactions. "

Advancing Newborn Screening Long-Term Follow-Up: Integration of Epic-Based Registries, Dashboards, and Efficient Workflows

https://www.mdpi.com/2409-515X/10/2/27 From the abstract: "The Connecticut Newborn Screening (NBS) Network, in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Public Health, strategically utilized the Epic electronic health record (EHR) system to establish registries for tracking long-term follow-up (LTFU) of NBS patients. After launching the LTFU registry in 2019, the Network obtained funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration to address the slow adoption by specialty care teams. "

Applications of genome sequencing as a single platform for clinical constitutional genetic testing

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949774424009865 From the abstract: "The number of human disease genes has dramatically increased over the past decade, largely fueled by ongoing advances in sequencing technologies. In parallel, the number of available clinical genetic tests has also increased, including exome sequencing for undiagnosed diseases. Although most clinical sequencing tests have been centered on enrichment-based multigene panels and exome sequencing, the continued improvements in performance and throughput of genome sequencing suggest that this technology is emerging as a potential platform for routine clinical genetic testing. "

Deep learning in cancer genomics and histopathology

https://genomemedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13073-024-01315-6 From the abstract: " Histopathology and genomic profiling are cornerstones of precision oncology and are routinely obtained for patients with cancer. Traditionally, histopathology slides are manually reviewed by highly trained pathologists. Genomic data, on the other hand, is evaluated by engineered computational pipelines. In both applications, the advent of modern artificial intelligence methods, specifically machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), have opened up a fundamentally new way of extracting actionable insights from raw data, which could augment and potentially replace some aspects of traditional evaluation workflows. "

miércoles, 27 de marzo de 2024

Exercise could be the cure to your insomnia

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240327/Exercise-could-be-the-cure-to-your-insomnia.aspx In a recent study published in the journal BMJ Open, an international team of researchers conducted a longitudinal study over 10 years to understand the association between physical activity and sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and current insomnia symptoms in adults.

“A randomized double-blinded trial to assess recurrence of systemic allergic reactions following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination”

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091674924002367?utm_campaign=+59950531&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term= A small NIAID clinical trial has found that receiving second and booster doses of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine under medical supervision was safe for people who reported a systemic allergic reaction to their first dose. After revaccination, 12.5% of study participants had a systemic allergic reaction, while 62.5% had a non-allergic reaction that mimics anaphylaxis and is called Immunization Stress-Related Response (ISRR). These findings highlight the opportunity to assess and manage pre-vaccination anxiety to reduce ISRR. The results are published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT https://www.foxnews.com/health/intermittent-fasting-linked-higher-risk-heart-related-death-study

Cancer and Princess Kate: Important screenings to focus on for best health Amid Kate Middleton’s cancer announcement, here are screenings to know about Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 24, 2024 3:00pm EDT | Updated March 26, 2024 5:56pm EDT

Cancer and Princess Kate: Important screenings to focus on for best health Amid Kate Middleton’s cancer announcement, here are screenings to know about Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 24, 2024 3:00pm EDT | Updated March 26, 2024 5:56pm EDT https://www.foxnews.com/health/cancer-princess-kate-important-screenings-focus-best-health

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT

Intermittent fasting linked to higher risk of heart-related death in new study Experts point out the limitations as those who restricted their eating to eight-hour windows saw the highest risk Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 25, 2024 6:31pm EDT https://www.foxnews.com/health/intermittent-fasting-linked-higher-risk-heart-related-death-study

Drug Trials Snapshots: LETYBO (letibotulinumtoxinA)

LETYBO is a drug used in adults to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines (wrinkles between the eyebrows). https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trials-snapshots-letybo

Drug Trials Snapshots: POMBILITI (cipaglucosidase alfa-atga)

POMBILITI is an enzyme used for the treatment of adult patients with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) weighing ≥40 kg and who are not improving on their current enzyme replacement therapy. POMBILITI is approved for use in combination with Opfolda. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/development-approval-process-drugs/drug-trials-snapshots-pombiliti

A window into placental development during pregnancy

A window into placental development during pregnancy: A multidisciplinary group of NIH-funded scientists have successfully captured real-time, high-resolution images of the developing mouse placenta during the course of pregnancy. Their technique, which combines a surgically implanted window with a next-generation imaging system, provides key insight into placental development under both healthy and pathological conditions.

Reproductive Carrier Screening: Identifying Families at Risk for Familial Hypercholesterolemia in the United States. Vivienne Souter et al. Circ Genom Precis Med 2024 3 e004457 (Posted Mar 21, 2024 7AM)

https://phgkb.cdc.gov/PHGKB/specificPHGKB.action?topic=HLBS&query=home From the abstract: "Familial hypercholesterolemia is a treatable genetic condition but remains underdiagnosed. We reviewed the frequency of pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in the LDLR gene in female individuals receiving reproductive carrier screening. This retrospective observational study included samples from female patients (aged 18–55 years) receiving a 274-gene carrier screening panel. P/LP LDLR variants were identified in 283 samples (1 in 324). No patients were identified with >1 P/LP variant. LDLR carrier frequency was higher in Asian (1 in 191 [95% CI, 1 in 142–258]) compared with White (1 in 417 [95% CI, 1 in 326–533]; P<0.001) or Black groups (1 in 508 [95% CI, 1 in 284–910]; P=0.004). "

A call for increased inclusivity and global representation in pharmacogenetic testing. April Kennedy et al. NPJ Genom Med 2024 2 (1) 13 (Posted Feb 23, 2024 3PM)

https://phgkb.cdc.gov/PHGKB/specificPHGKB.action?topic=fhh&query=home From the abstract: "Commercial pharmacogenetic testing panels capture a fraction of the genetic variation underlying medication metabolism and predisposition to adverse reactions. In this study we compared variation in six pharmacogenes detected by whole genome sequencing (WGS) to a targeted commercial panel in a cohort of 308 individuals with family history of pediatric heart disease. In 1% of the cohort, WGS identified rare variants that altered the interpretation of metabolizer status and would thus prevent potential errors in gene-based dosing. "

Multi-ancestry polygenic mechanisms of type 2 diabetes K Smith et al, Nature Medicine, March 6, 2024 (Posted Mar 06, 2024 9AM)

https://phgkb.cdc.gov/PHGKB/specificPHGKB.action?topic=diabetes&query=home From the abstract: "Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a multifactorial disease with substantial genetic risk, for which the underlying biological mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we identified multi-ancestry T2D genetic clusters by analyzing genetic data from diverse populations in 37 published T2D genome-wide association studies representing more than 1.4 million individuals. We implemented soft clustering with 650 T2D-associated genetic variants and 110 T2D-related traits, capturing known and novel T2D clusters with distinct cardiometabolic trait associations across two independent biobanks. "

Lynch Syndrome Ups Risk for Colorectal, Other Cancers

https://thedacare.org/lynch-syndrome-ups-risk-for-colorectal-other-cancers/ From the article: "It’s impossible to change our genes, but with knowledge comes power. In the case of Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition that ups people’s risks for developing colorectal and other types of cancer, that’s especially true. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month offers a reminder for everyone to examine their risk for colorectal cancer and to explore options for screening as well as genetic testing, when warranted. Lynch syndrome puts a person at a higher risk of developing colorectal, uterine, and ovarian cancer. It’s also associated with other cancers, including kidney, stomach, bladder, brain, prostate, and pancreatic cancer. "

Genomic analysis of 116 autism families strengthens known risk genes and highlights promising candidates

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41525-024-00411-1 From the abstract: "Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a strong genetic component in which rare variants contribute significantly to risk. We performed whole genome and/or exome sequencing (WGS and WES) and SNP-array analysis to identify both rare sequence and copy number variants (SNVs and CNVs) in 435 individuals from 116 ASD families. We identified 37 rare potentially damaging de novo SNVs (pdSNVs) in the cases (n?=?144). "

PARP Inhibitors for Breast Cancer Treatment: A Review

From the abstract: "Poly(adenosine diphosphate–ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of patients with germline BRCA1/2-associated breast cancer, representing the first targeted therapy capable of improving outcomes in patients with hereditary tumors. However, resistance to PARP inhibitors occurs in almost all patients. This narrative review summarizes the biological rationale behind the use of PARP inhibitors in breast cancer, as well as the available evidence, recent progress, and potential future applications of these agents. Recent studies have shown that the benefit of PARP inhibitors extends beyond patients with germline BRCA1/2-associated metastatic breast cancer to patients with somatic BRCA1/2 variants and to those with germline PALB2 alterations. " https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38512229/

SOLAR ECLIPSE COUNTDOWN: PREPPING FOR APRILE’S SOLAR SPECTACULAR

Solar Eclipse Countdown: Prepping for April’s Solar Spectacular By Ivanhoe Broadcast News on March 31, 2024 https://www.ivanhoe.com/?p=32800&preview=1&_ppp=f5d6a3e423

Measles is surging. This doctor and mom wants you to know these five things right now Measles is not a harmless childhood illness. Serious health complications can occur from the disease. Here's what you need to know Nicole Saphier, M.D. By Nicole Saphier, M.D. Fox News Published March 22, 2024 5:00am EDT

Measles is surging. This doctor and mom wants you to know these five things right now Measles is not a harmless childhood illness. Serious health complications can occur from the disease. Here's what you need to know Nicole Saphier, M.D. By Nicole Saphier, M.D. Fox News Published March 22, 2024 5:00am EDT https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/measles-surging-doctor-mom-you-know-five-things

Congenital Heart Valve Repair Symposium Hosted by Yves d’Udekem, M.D., Ph.D and Children's National Heart Center. October 19, 2024 9:00 AM-6:00 PMET

https://web.cvent.com/event/fbaa76a8-43b1-4476-882a-7d10f7faed11/regProcessStep1 The Children's National Heart Center invites you to join us in Washington D.C. for an all-day Congenital Heart Valve Repair Symposium, centered on practical cases illustrated by intra-operative videos, echo and MRI imaging. The symposium is tailored for cardiac surgeons, imaging cardiologists, nurses and sonographers. Learn more and register here.

Q&A with Daniel J. Licht, M.D.: The future of medicine is in light February 14, 2024

https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/qa-with-daniel-licht-the-future-of-medicine-is-in-light/ Pediatric neurologist Daniel J. Licht, M.D., joins Children’s National Hospital with a vision: He believes non-invasive devices built using biomedical optics – or instruments using light – can give clinicians invaluable information about how the brain and other organs are functioning.

Local context, health system integrations key to sustainable interventions after RHD diagnosis

https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/sustainable-interventions-after-rhd-diagnosis/ A rheumatic heart disease (RHD) work group convened by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute concluded that any priority intervention strategies to slow or stop late complications of RHD need to consider local contexts and should be integrated into health systems to meet the affected community’s needs in a sustainable way.

Babies with congenital heart disease display disrupted brain function before birth

https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/babies-with-congenital-heart-disease-display-disrupted-brain-function-before-birth/ For the first time, researchers have found that babies born with congenital heart disease (CHD) have alterations to the emerging functional connectivity of their brains in utero. The changes are related to the subtype of their CHD and their oxygen status before having surgery to treat their cardiac malformation.

Earliest hybrid HLHS heart surgery kids thrive 5 years later February 1, 2024

https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/earliest-hybrid-hlhs-heart-surgery-kids-thrive-5-years-later/ Five years ago, Cayden was born 6 weeks early weighing less than four pounds and at risk of dying from her critical congenital heart disease. Today, she’s a happy five-year-old who is excited to start kindergarten this fall. Early diagnosis of her hypoplastic right ventricle, double inlet left ventricle and critical coarctation of the aorta allowed for the team at Children’s National Hospital to create a careful plan for safe delivery and to offer an innovative hybrid HLHS surgical approach at the hospital within 24 hours after she was born.

What are the health costs of air pollution, and what can we do about it?

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/what-are-the-health-costs-of-air-pollution-and-what-can-we-do-about-it?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Have you ever noticed the hazy smog that hangs over cities or the lingering smell of exhaust fumes from traffic? These are just a few noticeable signs of air pollution, a threat that can have a significant effect on our health and well-being. What is air pollution? Air pollution is caused when harmful substances are released into the atmosphere. These pollutants can come from both natural and human-made sources. Natural

Researchers are exposing troubling consequences of air pollution Breathing clean air is important for everyone's health, but some communities face more risks than others

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/researchers-are-exposing-troubling-consequences-of-air-pollution?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery The air we breathe can sometimes contain tiny particles called particulate matter (PM). These particles come in different shapes and sizes and are made up of hundreds of different chemicals. Some are very small, smaller than 2.5 micrometers. They are referred to as PM2.5. You can't see these particles, but you can inhale them. As a group, PM2.5 is responsible for most pollution-related health problems in the United States.

First patient implanted with Neuralink, plays chess with his mind Fox News contributor Dr. Marc Siegel joins ‘America’s Newsroom’ to discuss the ‘amazing’ brain-implant technology that uses thought to provide movement.

First patient implanted with Neuralink, plays chess with his mind Fox News contributor Dr. Marc Siegel joins ‘America’s Newsroom’ to discuss the ‘amazing’ brain-implant technology that uses thought to provide movement. https://www.foxnews.com/video/6349384909112

High-school students are making strides in cancer research: ‘Gives me hope' 6 students working to fight cancer were finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search in Washington, DC Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 20, 2024 6:14am EDT

High-school students are making strides in cancer research: ‘Gives me hope' 6 students working to fight cancer were finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search in Washington, DC Melissa Rudy By Melissa Rudy Fox News Published March 20, 2024 6:14am EDT https://www.foxnews.com/health/high-school-students-making-strides-cancer-research-gives-hope

New gene therapy, to be priced at $4.25 million, has already transformed children’s lives Jason Mast Megan Molteni By Jason Mast and Megan Molteni March 20, 2024

https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/20/gene-therapy-orchard-therapeutics-metachromatic-leukodystrophy/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8tWUeLuJO_3vtVtsaHYv4eQ3KUv7wnEMRphDDaOzd4JL4ymEsGPhafvNbAp7FvA2KD7IVxsyFVYW8Czv-H_h8-Kzulcw&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email Victoria Rasberry sees the difference a gene therapy can make every morning. Her 8-year-old daughter Addi needs thick mucus sucked out of her airways so she can breathe. She eats breakfast from a feeding tube and must take 28 different medications to prevent pain, infections, and seizures. Her brother Oliver, age 3, is a typical giggling toddler. The children share a genetic mutation that causes a fatal neurodegenerative disease called metachromatic leukodystrophy, or MLD, but as a baby he was treated in Italy with what its maker said today will cost $4.25 million in the U.S., making it the most expensive drug in history. “When Addi was this age she had lost the ability to speak and was already using a ventilator to sleep at night,” Raspberry said. “It’s amazing to see how well Ollie is doing in comparison. And it’s all because of the gene therapy.” On Monday the U.S. FDA approved Orchard Therapeutics’ gene therapy Lenmeldy, an achievement decades in the making from parents’ efforts, researchers’ experiments, and a company’s experience with other gene therapies that failed. Now there’s the hurdle of that price. “It may take months sometimes to get those things worked out,” Paul Orchard of the University of Minnesota said about insurers. “And some of these kids aren't going to have months to screw around.” STAT’s Jason Mast and Megan Molteni have more on the complicated story. https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/18/metachromatic-leukodystrophy-nerve-disease-children-gene-therapy-orchard-lenmeldy/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_g-Yi4szim62kaksSiUY1SjB4RzZADinLA1bSfOgCEQqBFzAbOp3kHeGJg25GvfYOnIam6-J3QwLmrOeyLoaQxfXQS1Q&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email

Aspirin for Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Without Cirrhosis A Randomized Clinical Trial ++++

Aspirin for Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Without Cirrhosis A Randomized Clinical Trial https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2816236?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9jgcGdldbTPUIQE2oc2MPqb7qBN-GNGu49QvJuoutzKDe7tbQGgxyaES34BSvsow8hEjWr9M1WU4Vhpj8fwU9ev5K8lQ&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email Renamed, common liver diseases might get fairer shake at treatment, researchers hope Isabella Cueto By Isabella Cueto Dec. 28, 2023 https://www.statnews.com/2023/12/28/liver-disease-masld-nafld-mash-nash-metald/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--aSHVGmSgA9yjeh5Lr6msLxmLm6RkMbmHs33IQUoWUvnAtOSjgpRmlunfCUD3LHQPkSktLnpydD0TXFtzvAH2etFgCNg&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email Madrigal wins first U.S. approval for drug to treat liver disease MASH Adam Feuerstein By Adam Feuerstein March 14, 2024 https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/14/madrigal-mash-drug-approval/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--KpUT-TE1vRHkTA2ea9JqXI7BxsTEUT0pJXpwamA9GbxCpl662x8Z4P4UT1n7eVwRZDq2Mf2i4QWh-HytC-g5kynh61Q&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email In small study, baby aspirin cuts fat buildup in liver disease patients Isabella Cueto By Isabella Cueto March 19, 2024 https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/19/baby-aspirin-liver-disease-masld/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8Q4-OlUvcS2f6vmGWhy81yFEATh9I82rMfcP4C0d5UtFeiB8eMAtQCDcsiEe6-Um527z41MapyhUovvSpZdxl2UsnYAA&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email

A scientific mystery highlights the blind spots in genomics databases Andrew Joseph By Andrew Joseph March 20, 2024

https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/20/genomics-databases-scientific-mystery-gene-variant/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8Vn6i2ybIpd0AhMcNXJwnwgY64YTMpmOTDGInUKZWXz3bhlTrtUvC23CU4gfO2rz71DtoFqS92a7r7n2HgyDFk9yvdFQ&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email A medical mystery or a blind spot? What does “rare” mean? It depends on the context. When that context is the world of genomic datasets dominated by European samples, it requires deeper sleuthing to determine what’s a mystery and what’s not. A preprint paper illustrates this point with the cases of two people who died young from heart problems and shared a particular variant of a gene that helps the heart beat. According to available datasets, the variant qualified as rare. And without knowing its meaning, one lab concluded it was likely disease-causing. That was before looking harder. Researchers who authored the new report found that the two patients were of Oceanian ancestry, among the least represented populations in DNA databases, meaning their genetic variants likely aren’t reflected in rates saying how common they actually are. And it turned out the variant was not so rare after all. STAT’s Andrew Joseph explains. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.02.08.24302375v1.full?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9S-9TWPtLUYA25irOtVBy4zIP1QIh06oYR3zKjD4q3tph0Hv-gRDqDUvg70RT7pgxK_wO_aNtECg5ZM0jciZBvm1RJLw&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email

Fetal tissue research gains in importance as roadblocks multiply Olivia Goldhill By Olivia Goldhill March 20, 2024

https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/20/fetal-tissue-research-scientists-roadblocks/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=298983789&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--PhSKgzKGn9XprsabNpoa-bjo84d8-Y20rKu3jCUovOz-SwqfE8Fr38S_GTgtj0jglrze0dV3XyvhsP12rS_0qQzTRcA&utm_content=298983789&utm_source=hs_email Some pursuits of biomedical science can’t proceed without studying fetal tissue, which can help scientists learn about stem cells and understand cancer biology and brain development. But several scientists say fetal tissue research is increasingly untenable in the U.S. with the possible return of former president Donald Trump to office. His previous administration set up roadblocks that President Biden overturned, but federal funding of studies relying on fetal tissue has not fully rebounded. “The U.S. is falling behind,” Dan Doherty, a pediatrics professor at the University of Washington, told STAT’s Olivia Goldhill. In one example, fetal tissue has gained importance thanks to advances leading to the creation of sophisticated human organoids — organ-like blobs of tissue grown in labs — to study the emergence of diseases and potential treatments. Fetal tissue is needed to validate results. Read more.

Children’s National to host Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Days Meeting March 5, 2024

https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/childrens-national-to-host-pediatric-inflammatory-bowel-disease-research-days-meeting The division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Children’s National Hospital is proud to host the Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Days (PIBDRD) Meeting from April 4-5, 2024. This two-day event will review recent advances in pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) research, identify gaps in knowledge in pediatric IBD and identify target areas for future pediatric IBD research.