Catharine Paddock
United Kingdom
Writer for medicalnewstoday.com
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Articles by Catharine Paddock
Blood pressure: Large global study uncovers links to new genes
By discovering 31 new gene regions involved with blood pressure, a major global study has significantly increased the catalog of genes linked to hypertension or high blood pressure. The finding is also significant because three of the new genes appear to have up to twice the effect on blood pressure as previously known genes. Share on PinterestThe new study also found three new genes that appear to have up to twice the effect on blood pressure as previously known genes.
Brain 'wired differently' in men and women
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have found striking differences in how men’s and women’s brains are wired. In one brain region, women have more connections between left and right hemispheres, and men within hemispheres, while in another brain region, it is the other way around.
Red meat compound linked to worse outcomes in heart failure patients
A new study finds that worse outcomes in patients with acute heart failure are linked to higher levels of TMAO – the major source of which is thought to be L-carnitine, a compound that is metabolized by gut bacteria during the digestion of red meat. Share on PinterestHeart failure develops when the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for nutrients and oxygen. The new study – from the University of Leicester in the UK – is published in the journal Heart.
Are routine pelvic exams 'more harm than good' for healthy women?
The pelvic exam is a standard part of women’s gynecologic checkup, but a new review by the American College of Physicians shows that for healthy women it is likely doing more harm than good, causing the doctors’ group to issue a new guideline that advises against it. The new guideline, plus a report on the supporting evidence review, are published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, along with an editorial comment.
Universal dengue vaccine steps closer with antibodies discovery
For the first time, researchers report how they discovered a new class of antibody that could lead to the development of a universal vaccine against dengue – a rapidly emerging, mosquito-borne virus that infects around 400 million people worldwide every year. Share on PinterestResearchers found a new class of antibodies that can neutralize all four types of dengue virus produced from human or mosquito cells.
Over 55s more likely to complete exercise on referral
Older patients and those with heart problems are more likely to take up and complete exercise on referral programs than younger or obese patients. Researchers from the UK’s University of Northumbria in Newcastle upon Tyne presented these findings at the British Science Festival in Newcastle this week and reported them in a recent BMJ Open paper.
Fit 50-Year-Olds As Fit As 20-Year-Olds Who Don't Exercise
It may not be possible to have the body of a 20-year-old at 50, but it is possible for fit 50-year-olds to be as fit as 20-year-olds who don’t exercise, according to researchers at the K.G. Jebsen Center of Exercise in Medicine at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim. Ulrik Wisloff, a professor and director of the K.G. Jebsen Center, says that activity is far more important than age in determining fitness.
Why caffeine may limit weight gain
Consuming caffeine may offset some unhealthful consequences of an obesity-inducing diet, according to a new study in rats. Share on PinterestCaffeine could counter some weight gain resulting from a diet high in fat and sugar. Scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign fed rats a high-fat, high-sugar diet. They then gave some of the rodents caffeine extracted from mate tea and others decaffeinated mate tea.
Why caffeine may limit weight gain
Consuming caffeine may offset some unhealthful consequences of an obesity-inducing diet, according to a new study in rats. Share on PinterestCaffeine could counter some weight gain resulting from a diet high in fat and sugar. Scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign fed rats a high-fat, high-sugar diet. They then gave some of the rodents caffeine extracted from mate tea and others decaffeinated mate tea.
Processed meat and cancer link depends on nitrite content
In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens, citing sufficient evidence that they cause cancer in humans. Now, a new review challenges this blanket classification, having found that the strength of the evidence varies according to whether the meat contains nitrites. Share on PinterestNot all processed meats are equally unhealthful, new research suggests.
Processed meat and cancer link depends on nitrite content
In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens, citing sufficient evidence that they cause cancer in humans. Now, a new review challenges this blanket classification, having found that the strength of the evidence varies according to whether the meat contains nitrites.
Belly fat may reduce mental agility from midlife onward
A study of thousands of middle-aged and older people has linked having more body fat and less muscle mass to changes in mental flexibility with age. The research also suggests that changes to the immune system may play a role. Share on PinterestNew research shows why having more body fat than muscle mass can affect cognition from midlife onward.
Belly fat may reduce mental agility from midlife onward
A study of thousands of middle-aged and older people has linked having more body fat and less muscle mass to changes in mental flexibility with age. The research also suggests that changes to the immune system may play a role. Share on PinterestNew research shows why having more body fat than muscle mass can affect cognition from midlife onward.
Cancer drug shows promise in Parkinson's disease safety trial
Nilotinib, a drug that regulators have approved for the treatment of leukemia, has shown promise in a small clinical trial of people with Parkinson's disease. Share on PinterestAn approved leukemia drug holds promise for the treatment of Parkinson's. The main purpose of the trial was to assess the repurposed drug's safety and tolerability and how it behaves in the body in people with moderately severe Parkinson's disease.
Male scientists more likely to present findings positively
A recent analysis of gender differences in research reporting has found that female scientists are less likely to use positive language to frame their findings than their male counterparts. Share on PinterestThere are some key gender differences in the way that scientists present their findings. Clinical articles with male first or last authors were more likely to contain terms such as "unprecedented" and "unique" in their titles or abstracts than those with female first and last authors.
Male scientists more likely to present findings positively
A recent analysis of gender differences in research reporting has found that female scientists are less likely to use positive language to frame their findings than their male counterparts. Share on PinterestThere are some key gender differences in the way that scientists present their findings. Clinical articles with male first or last authors were more likely to contain terms such as “unprecedented” and “unique” in their titles or abstracts than those with female first and last authors.
How fish oil might reduce inflammation
Recent research has revealed a mechanism through which fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, might reduce inflammation. A study that tested an enriched fish oil supplement found that it increased blood levels of certain anti-inflammatory molecules. Share on PinterestA new study sheds light on the inflammation-reducing properties of fish oil supplements.
How fish oil might reduce inflammation
Recent research has revealed a mechanism through which fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, might reduce inflammation. A study that tested an enriched fish oil supplement found that it increased blood levels of certain anti-inflammatory molecules. Share on PinterestA new study sheds light on the inflammation-reducing properties of fish oil supplements.
At least 1 in 4 outpatient antibiotic prescriptions are 'inappropriate'
Some 24 million, or 18%, of the 130.5 million prescriptions for antibiotics that ambulatory care providers wrote in 2015 in the United States had no documented reason for using the drug, according to a recent analysis. Share on PinterestA recent study investigates antibiotic prescriptions for outpatients. Ambulatory care is a general term for medical care that people who are not staying in a hospital or an institution receive.
At least 1 in 4 outpatient antibiotic prescriptions are 'inappropriate'
Some 24 million, or 18%, of the 130.5 million prescriptions for antibiotics that ambulatory care providers wrote in 2015 in the United States had no documented reason for using the drug, according to a recent analysis. Ambulatory care is a general term for medical care that people who are not staying in a hospital or an institution receive.
Could epigenome editing prevent developmental disorders?
Using a new type of genetic engineering tool called epigenome editing in mice, scientists have restored irregularities in the developing brain that arise from a gene mutation. Share on PinterestNew research in mice suggests that gene editing could prevent brain developmental disorders. Epigenome editing is a way of altering the expression, or reading, of genes without altering their underlying DNA code.
Could epigenome editing prevent developmental disorders?
Using a new type of genetic engineering tool called epigenome editing in mice, scientists have restored irregularities in the developing brain that arise from a gene mutation. Share on PinterestNew research in mice suggests that gene editing could prevent brain developmental disorders. Epigenome editing is a way of altering the expression, or reading, of genes without altering their underlying DNA code.
Transport breakdown in brain cells may lead to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's
After studying the process in mice and flies, scientists suggest that failure to transport the molecular machines that break down proteins in cells could lie at the heart of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Share on PinterestFaulty transportation mechanisms within nerve cells may lead to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.
Transport breakdown in brain cells may lead to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's
After studying the process in mice and flies, scientists suggest that failure to transport the molecular machines that break down proteins in cells could lie at the heart of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Share on PinterestFaulty transportation mechanisms within nerve cells may lead to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
Athletes are better at tuning out background brain noise
People who play sports appear to have an enhanced ability to process sounds from their environment, according to new research. Share on PinterestAthletes' brains may be better at processing the sensory environment, new research suggests. Scientists at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, measured brain activity relating to sound processing in athletes and nonathletes.
Athletes are better at tuning out background brain noise
People who play sports appear to have an enhanced ability to process sounds from their environment, according to new research. Share on PinterestAthletes’ brains may be better at processing the sensory environment, new research suggests. Scientists at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, measured brain activity relating to sound processing in athletes and nonathletes.
BPA levels in humans may be much higher than previously thought
After using a new method for assessing levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in the body, scientists suggest that human exposure to the industrial chemical is much higher than previous estimates have suggested. Share on PinterestPlastic water bottles often contain BPA.
BPA levels in humans may be much higher than previously thought
After using a new method for assessing levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in the body, scientists suggest that human exposure to the industrial chemical is much higher than previous estimates have suggested. Regulators, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), could be relying on measures that underestimate levels of BPA in humans by as much as 44 times, they conclude in a recent report on their findings in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
Repairing leaky blood-brain barrier may rejuvenate brain function
New research in mice questions the idea that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." The answer may lie in preserving the blood-brain barrier, which tends to become leaky with age. Share on PinterestNew research looks at the decline of brain functions that accompanies aging. The blood-brain barrier is a complex set of blood vessel characteristics that help shield the brain from potentially harmful substances in the bloodstream.
Repairing leaky blood-brain barrier may rejuvenate brain function
New research in mice questions the idea that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” The answer may lie in preserving the blood-brain barrier, which tends to become leaky with age. Share on PinterestNew research looks at the decline of brain functions that accompanies aging. The blood-brain barrier is a complex set of blood vessel characteristics that help shield the brain from potentially harmful substances in the bloodstream.
Study reveals how diabetes drug promotes healthy aging
Doctors commonly prescribe metformin to help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar levels. The drug increases insulin sensitivity through its effects on glucose metabolism. Share on PinterestMetformin may hold surprising benefits in the fight against age-related illness. However, although there is clear evidence of metformin's effectiveness, scientists do not fully understand how it interacts with cells and tissues at the molecular level.
Study reveals how diabetes drug promotes healthy aging
Doctors commonly prescribe metformin to help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar levels. The drug increases insulin sensitivity through its effects on glucose metabolism. Share on PinterestMetformin may hold surprising benefits in the fight against age-related illness. However, although there is clear evidence of metformin’s effectiveness, scientists do not fully understand how it interacts with cells and tissues at the molecular level.
New MRI scans reveal brain features of depression
Recent advances in brain scanning may bring welcome news to people with depression. Two new types of MRI appear able to spot distinct brain characteristics of the condition. Share on PinterestNew MRI scans may reveal previously unknown differences in the brains of people with depression. The researchers say that their findings deepen knowledge about how depression affects the brain and should lead to better treatments.
New MRI scans reveal brain features of depression
Recent advances in brain scanning may bring welcome news to people with depression. Two new types of MRI appear able to spot distinct brain characteristics of the condition. Share on PinterestNew MRI scans may reveal previously unknown differences in the brains of people with depression. The researchers say that their findings deepen knowledge about how depression affects the brain and should lead to better treatments.
These blood markers may indicate a higher risk of disease and death
A new study suggests that some readings from routine blood tests could help identify people at higher risk of disease and death related to disease. Doctors currently use the readings as markers of immune condition and inflammation. Share on PinterestNew research singles out blood markers that could identify people at risk of disease and premature death. The study investigators analyzed 12 years of data from 31,178 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
These blood markers may indicate a higher risk of disease and death
A new study suggests that some readings from routine blood tests could help identify people at higher risk of disease and death related to disease. Doctors currently use the readings as markers of immune condition and inflammation. Share on PinterestNew research singles out blood markers that could identify people at risk of disease and premature death. The study investigators analyzed 12 years of data from 31,178 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Stem cell discovery could improve treatments for leukemia, other diseases
The inability to get human blood stem cells, or hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), to self-renew in the laboratory is holding back progress in treating leukemia and other blood diseases. Share on PinterestScientists have found a way to boost the ability of blood stem cells to renew themselves. Now, a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) suggests that the answer may lie in a particular protein — the activation of which can greatly expand HSCs in culture.
Stem cell discovery could improve treatments for leukemia, other diseases
The inability to get human blood stem cells, or hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), to self-renew in the laboratory is holding back progress in treating leukemia and other blood diseases. Share on PinterestScientists have found a way to boost the ability of blood stem cells to renew themselves. Now, a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) suggests that the answer may lie in a particular protein — the activation of which can greatly expand HSCs in culture.
How fruit and vegetable compounds help prevent colorectal cancer
Flavonoids are compounds that are naturally present in fruit and vegetables. Scientists have known for 20 years that they can help prevent colorectal cancer but have not fully understood the underlying biology. Share on PinterestNew research reveals the mechanisms through which fruit and vegetable compounds can prevent colon cancer. Now, a new study describes a molecular mechanism through which a product of flavonoid digestion can inhibit cancer cell growth under certain conditions.
How fruit and vegetable compounds help prevent colorectal cancer
Flavonoids are compounds that are naturally present in fruit and vegetables. Scientists have known for 20 years that they can help prevent colorectal cancer but have not fully understood the underlying biology. Share on PinterestNew research reveals the mechanisms through which fruit and vegetable compounds can prevent colon cancer. Now, a new study describes a molecular mechanism through which a product of flavonoid digestion can inhibit cancer cell growth under certain conditions.
Humans and autoimmune diseases continue to evolve together
The ability to fight disease is a driving force in human survival. Inflammation has emerged as a key weapon in this process. As pathogens change and evolve, the immune system adapts to keep up. Share on PinterestOur DNA's evolution also brought about autoimmune conditions, researchers explain. However, to what extent might such evolutionary adaptations also give rise to autoimmune conditions such as lupus and Crohn's disease?
Humans and autoimmune diseases continue to evolve together
The ability to fight disease is a driving force in human survival. Inflammation has emerged as a key weapon in this process. As pathogens change and evolve, the immune system adapts to keep up. Share on PinterestOur DNA’s evolution also brought about autoimmune conditions, researchers explain. However, to what extent might such evolutionary adaptations also give rise to autoimmune conditions such as lupus and Crohn’s disease?
Rapamycin has anti-aging effect on human skin
A recent study has reported that rapamycin, a drug that has long served as an immune suppressor, may also slow aging in human skin. Share on PinterestA new study suggests that a drug with immunosuppressant functions can prevent signs of skin aging. The small clinical trial found that regular application of rapamycin to the backs of the hands appears to reduce wrinkles and sagging and improve skin tone.
Rapamycin has anti-aging effect on human skin
A recent study has reported that rapamycin, a drug that has long served as an immune suppressor, may also slow aging in human skin. Share on PinterestA new study suggests that a drug with immunosuppressant functions can prevent signs of skin aging. The small clinical trial found that regular application of rapamycin to the backs of the hands appears to reduce wrinkles and sagging and improve skin tone.
Study links some antibiotics to a raised risk of Parkinson's disease
Scientists have found a link between the use of oral antibiotics and the risk of Parkinson's disease. They suggest that the connection could be due to the drugs' impact on gut microbes. Share on PinterestNew research finds a link between antibiotics and the risk of Parkinson's disease. The findings also suggest that up to 15 years can elapse between antibiotic exposure and the emergence of any Parkinson's disease symptoms. The strongest links were for macrolides and lincosamides.
Study links some antibiotics to a raised risk of Parkinson's disease
Scientists have found a link between the use of oral antibiotics and the risk of Parkinson’s disease. They suggest that the connection could be due to the drugs’ impact on gut microbes. Share on PinterestNew research finds a link between antibiotics and the risk of Parkinson’s disease. The findings also suggest that up to 15 years can elapse between antibiotic exposure and the emergence of any Parkinson’s disease symptoms. The strongest links were for macrolides and lincosamides.
Racial disparities in premature deaths from power plant emissions
New research reveals that fine particle air pollution from plants burning fossil fuels to make electricity was the cause of about 16,000 premature deaths in the United States during 2014. Share on PinterestNew research examines the impact of power plant emissions on the U.S. population. In addition, the researchers found that while average exposures were higher for lower-income groups than they were for higher-income ones, racial disparity was more marked than income disparity.
Racial disparities in premature deaths from power plant emissions
New research reveals that fine particle air pollution from plants burning fossil fuels to make electricity was the cause of about 16,000 premature deaths in the United States during 2014. Share on PinterestNew research examines the impact of power plant emissions on the U.S. population. In addition, the researchers found that while average exposures were higher for lower-income groups than they were for higher-income ones, racial disparity was more marked than income disparity.
Inflammation drives tau damage in Alzheimer's
Scientists have found an inflammation mechanism that appears to play a key role in the formation of the toxic tau proteins that characterize Alzheimer's and other brain diseases. Share on PinterestNew research finds that inflammation is responsible for the tau protein damage in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults. Other forms include vascular, Lewy body, and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
Inflammation drives tau damage in Alzheimer's
Scientists have found an inflammation mechanism that appears to play a key role in the formation of the toxic tau proteins that characterize Alzheimer’s and other brain diseases. Share on PinterestNew research finds that inflammation is responsible for the tau protein damage in Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults. Other forms include vascular, Lewy body, and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
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