40-Year Medical Mystery Solved: Why Smoking Helps Ulcerative Colitis
Science & Technology

40-Year Medical Mystery Solved: Why Smoking Helps Ulcerative Colitis

New research shows that smoking alters gut microbes in a way that reduces inflammation in ulcerative colitis. The discovery hints at future treatments that harness bacteria or metabolites instead of cigarettes. Credit: ShutterstockSmoking helps oral bacteria settle in the gut, protecting against colitis but not Crohn’s disease. This mechanism could inspire safer treatments. A research team led by Hiroshi Ohno at the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS) in Japan has uncovered why smoking tobacco appears to ease symptoms in people with ulcerative colitis, a chronic condition marked by inflammation in the large intestine. Their study, published in the journal Gutrevealed that smoking produces certain metabolites that allow oral bacteria to establish themselves in the colon, where they activate an immune response. The findings suggest that similar benefits might be achieved through alternatives such as prebiotics...
Continue reading
Garnacho Medical Scheduled As Chelsea Set To Complete Signing From Man Utd
Educational Resources

Garnacho Medical Scheduled As Chelsea Set To Complete Signing From Man Utd

August 28, (THEWILL) Alejandro Garnacho will complete his move from Manchester United to Chelsea after both clubs agreed terms for the Argentine winger’s transfer. The deal involves a 40 million fixed payment plus a 10% sell-on clause, with the 21-year-old set to undergo medical examinations on Friday before signing a seven-year contract. The player had attracted interest from overseas clubs but insisted on remaining in the English Premier League if he departed Old Trafford. His departure became inevitable after manager Ruben Amorim informed him he was surplus to requirements following complaints about limited playing time after the UEFA Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Garnacho becomes Chelsea’s ninth summer acquisition, joining a squad already strengthened by forwards Joo Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens. The Blues previously completed the signing of Brazilian talent Estvo...
Continue reading
Major medical cannabis research project announced by Glass Pharms and the James Hutton Institute
Science & Technology

Major medical cannabis research project announced by Glass Pharms and the James Hutton Institute

Technology tamfitronics Glass Pharms and the Advanced Plant Growth Centre at The James Hutton Institute are to conduct a ground-breaking medical cannabis research program that has been funded by UKRI’s Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). The three-year project will aim to support the growing need for medicinal cannabis by helping standardise the product to meet pharmaceutical quality though environment manipulation and the development of new cannabis plant architectures.Currently cannabis varieties, or cultivars, vary greatly creating different cannabinoid profiles. The research in Dundee will aim to use Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) technologies to create a consistent product and help the UK to maintain its position as the world's largest producer and exporter of medicinal cannabis.The plants will be grown to maturity at Glass Pharms’ purpose-built 2.4-hectare semi-closed glasshouse facility that has advanced sensor technology...
Continue reading
Science & Technology

Medical Sensors: Enabling Early Disease Detection and Improved Patient Care

Technology tamfitronics Advancements in sensor technology have enabled the development of non-invasive diagnostic tools that can gather crucial health data without requiring invasive procedures. Sensors placed on or inside the body can continuously monitor vitals like heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels and more. This real-time patient monitoring allows for early detection of changes indicating potential health issues. Remote sensor platforms connected via Bluetooth or other wireless protocols also enable at-home or even ambulatory monitoring, improving accessibility and convenience. Devices like adhesive patches or inserts fitted with tiny sensors can transmit readings to apps on a patient's smartphone or other devices. This makes it simpler to track health progress outside of clinical settings. Wireless Sensors Improve Disease Management Wirelessly connected sensors are revolutionizing how chronic conditions are managed. Devices fitted with things like...
Continue reading