How is Technology Making the Pharmaceutical Sector More Efficient?

The pharmaceutical sector is an essential part of the healthcare industry and it is constantly evolving and adapting in order to be able to serve its patients better. One of the ways in which it has been able to do so is by making use of technology in to become more efficient. 

Some of the most notable ways in which technology has helped the pharmaceutical sector are by: 

  • Allowing for more accurate and better ways of data collection which is helping in research and development, as well as clinical trials. 
  • Helping create more personalised medications using 3D printing technology and similar technologies. 
  • Making it possible to track drugs throughout the entire supply chain, from manufacture down to delivery, ensuring drug safety and efficacy.
  • Making it easier for patients to order and receive their medication through the online pharmacy system without having to visit the pharmacy in person.
  • Allowing for faster and easier communication between healthcare teams; for example between doctors and pharmacists. 

Technology will continue to play a very important role in the advancement of the pharmaceutical sector and there are many more exciting innovations yet to come.

How Blockchain is Helping Secure the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain

The pharmaceutical supply chain is a complex process that involves many different players, from manufacturers to distributors to pharmacies. And because of the numerous components involved, it’s also vulnerable to fraud and counterfeiting. That’s where blockchain comes in. Blockchain is a distributed database that allows all participants in the supply chain to see every transaction that has taken place. This transparency makes it much more difficult for counterfeit drugs to enter the supply chain, as they would be easily detected. In addition, blockchain can also help to track the movement of drugs throughout the supply chain, making it easier to recall drugs in the event of a problem. This is a very important safety feature, as it can help prevent unsafe drugs from reaching the public.

How Wearable Devices are Helping Patients Adhere to Medication Regimens

In the past, patients had to rely on their memory to take their prescribed medication. But with the advent of wearable devices, patients can now receive reminders to take their medication at the right time. These devices can also track a patient’s progress and send alerts to their caregivers if they are not taking their medication as prescribed. This is especially helpful for patients with chronic conditions who need to take multiple medications each day. With wearable devices, these patients ensure they are taking all their medication on time as prescribed. This can help improve their health and quality of life.

How Virtual Reality is Helping Pharma Companies Train Doctors

In the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of advancements in the field of Virtual Reality (VR). And while this technology was initially designed for gaming and entertainment, it is now being used in a variety of different industries, including healthcare. VR is proving to be a valuable tool for pharma companies who are looking to train doctors on new drugs and treatments. With VR, doctors and pharmacists can be placed in realistic simulated environments where they can learn about the effects of a new drug or treatment before a drug is actually prescribed to patients. This allows for a more hands-on learning experience that can help these professionals better understand how a new drug or treatment works. Additionally, VR can be used to train pharmacists on drug the drug design and manufacturing. By placing them in realistic simulations, they can get a better understanding of all the processes and conditions involved in producing pharmaceutical products. This type of training can help reduce errors and improve safety in healthcare.

Melatonin Deficiencies and Their Causes

Insomnia and other sleeping disorders are steadily on the rise, a very alarming statistic that experts around the world are trying to combat. One of the leading causes of these sleeping disorders is related to the hormone melatonin.

Melatonin is a hormone that induces sleep, and its deficiency can be correlated to a wide array of sleeping issues. In this article, we will examine why melatonin is necessary, the causes of melatonin deficiency, and their possible remedies.

Why Is Melatonin Important?

Melatonin controls a person’s circadian rhythm: their sleep/wake cycle. Proper secretion of the hormone ensures high-quality sleep and makes one feel more active when awake. Consequently, not having enough melatonin can have adverse effects such as:

1.    Insomnia

A lack of melatonin prevents you from experiencing the sensation of sleepiness, making people have trouble sleeping or simply unable to sleep.

2.    Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Usually, a person’s circadian rhythm is designed in such a way that they feel tired at night and awake during the day. A circadian rhythm disorder is a significant deviation from this cycle: instead of being tired at night, you might find yourself most tired in the morning or the middle of the day while feeling most active after midnight.

3.    Depression and Other Mental Illnesses

There has been a lot of debate over whether inadequate sleep causes mental illness or the other way around. The varies on a case-to-case basis, but the lack of sleep can always be attributed to melatonin deficiencies. It may compromise a person’s overall quality of life, exacerbating mental illnesses such as anxiety and major depressive disorder.

4.    Lowered Immunity

A lack of sleep caused by a melatonin deficiency also compromises your immunity. Not only does it make diseases such as the common cold more intense, but it also increases the recovery time.

Causes and Remedies of Melatonin Deficiency

Here are some reasons for this hormone deficiency and what to do about it.

1.    Eating Habits

High carbohydrate diets can inhibit melatonin production significantly. Due to sudden blood sugar spikes and drops, your regular melatonin production gets subdued. Taking too much caffeine can also interfere with melatonin production.

2.    Exposure to Blue Light

One of the most harmful things for melatonin production is excessive exposure to blue light. Humans evolved to stay awake while the sun was out and sleep after the sun sets. However, light, especially higher-frequency blue light, fools our minds into thinking that the sun never actually sets. This instinctively keeps us awake for longer and prevents us from secreting melatonin at the right time or in adequate amounts.

Try limiting the use of devices with screens an hour or two before bed. If that is not possible due to the nature of your job or routine, you could use glasses with blue-cut lenses that reduce the intensity of blue light entering your eyes. Companies like ICU Eyewear stock them. Many report better sleep and less eye fatigue using these glasses. However, though this solution is effective, it is not as perfect as limiting the use of devices before bed.

3.    Aging

A key factor behind melatonin deficiencies is age. Older people secrete less melatonin than their younger counterparts. On the other hand, teenagers experiencing puberty need more sleep and also experience a delay in their circadian rhythms, preferring to stay up later than most adults.

Although it is challenging to fix melatonin deficiencies caused by aging, limiting your exposure to blue light and fixing up your diet, as highlighted above, can still go a long way in ensuring that the quality of your sleep is not compromised.

Melatonin Supplements as a Remedy

A lot of affected people combat sleeplessness and insomnia using melatonin supplements. Many find them to be an effective remedy and see their sleep partially or fully fixing improving. However, some individuals experience side effects from melatonin supplements, such as nausea, dizziness, and even vivid nightmares. It is also very easy to take too much and abuse melatonin supplements. If you’re suffering from sleeplessness, consult your healthcare practitioner to see if these supplements can help you.

Endnote

Sleeping disorders are becoming more commonplace and need to be taken more seriously. More often than not, the root of the problem is related to the melatonin not being produced. In a world where people are lauded for pulling all-nighters and burning the midnight oil, let us aim for a world that prioritizes rest and well-being.

Latest Technologies Redefining the Beauty and Skincare Industry

The beauty and skincare industry has seen rapid changes over the last decade or so, with technological advancements making it easier than ever for people to access top-of-the-line products. From innovative advances in cosmetics and facial treatments that seek to make you look your best – to app-based products and services that keep your skin looking flawless 24/7 – technology is kicking up a serious storm when it comes to redefining how we view beauty care.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the technologies revolutionising this billion-dollar market, exploring everything from its impact on makeup trends to virtual consultations designed to enhance user experiences within the space. So buckle up folks as we get ready for an informational journey into what will be driving growth in one of our favourite industries forward!

Introduce the latest technologies in skincare and their benefits

Skincare technology is advancing rapidly, with novel treatments and products being developed every day. One of the most exciting technologies emerging on the market is biotechnology-based skincare. This is a form of skincare that harnesses proteins, peptides, and other natural substances to protect, repair, and soothe skin. The resulting products nourish the skin with intense hydration and antioxidant protection—all without irritation or inflammation. Other notable advancements in skincare technology include light therapy devices such as LED masks and micro needling devices that can penetrate deep into the skin’s layers to promote collagen production. Ultimately, advances in skincare technology are paving the way for brighter, healthier-looking skin free of wrinkles, sun damage, and other signs of aging.

Discuss how these technologies are changing the beauty industry for the better

The beauty industry is evolving rapidly with the introduction of new technologies. Computers, virtual software, and augmented reality have allowed the beauty industry to thrive in ways that weren’t previously possible. Now, customers are able to quickly try on products virtually, allowing them to determine what looks best on their skin and facial features before committing to a purchase. Additionally, makeup artists and beauty professionals can use 3D mapping technology for precision when it comes to creating customised looks for individual clients. Overall, this new wave of technology in the beauty industry has enabled more efficient production lines and improved customer experiences from enhanced convenience and product knowledge.

Offer advice on how to choose the right technology for your needs

When it comes to technology in the beauty and skincare industry, finding the right fit can be a challenge. There is no one-size-fits-all solution and each business will have different needs. To give yourself the best chance of choosing the technology that meets all of your requirements, it is important to take the time to research. Analyse industry trends, ask for recommendations from peers who are already using similar technology and make sure to understand any potential contracts associated with adopting a particular product. This homework could save you not only money but also time, in having to backtrack or switch over later on. Ultimately, when selecting new tech, remember that while it’s important to stay current with industry developments, your decision should be based on what works best for your business.

Encourage readers to try out these technologies for themselves and see the difference they make

Studies have shown that microdermabrasion treatment gives users a more youthful and radiant appearance while reducing wrinkles and age spots. Furthermore, microdermabrasion presents a much safer solution than alternative treatments like chemical peels, as this technology utilises natural diamond particles instead of potentially harsh chemicals. We, therefore, encourage our readers to try out microdermabrasion Perth for themselves, and experience first-hand the remarkable results that this cutting-edge technology can deliver.

Conclusion

The beauty and skincare industry is ever-changing, with new technologies constantly emerging. From at-home facial devices to customise makeup shades, these latest innovations are redefining how we approach beauty. And as we become more reliant on technology in our everyday lives, it’s likely that even more high-tech solutions will enter the market in the future. So keep an eye out for what’s next – you might be surprised by what turns up.

Pilates On tap

Proven to improve strength, posture, energy, balance, flexibility, immunity, mood, and sleep, what’s not to love about Pilates?

In perfect time to support your New Year health and fitness goals, GHP has been speaking with Sarah Manners, actress and Pilates instructor who has launched “Pilates On Tap”. Sarah has practiced Pilates for over 10 years and was named an ‘Inspirational Woman in Tech’ by We Are Tech Women in December 2022, and we are fortunate to have had an opportunity to find out why.

Now, the online exercise market is heaving and to stand out, you need to be different. Fortunately, Pilates On Tap is unique. It’s perfect for busy, on the go people who crave a flexible and cost-effective, yet personalised and effective exercise solution. Sarah describes it as “the closest thing you’ll get to a personal Pilates instructor in your pocket”.

It travels with you, is fully mat based and has sessions to suit any level of experience or class length.

Unlike many apps which feature one long pre-recorded video, it works differently to let you decide exactly what you want to see.

You can customise almost every element of your class, from length of session, release stretches on demand, bespoke recovery times and whether you’d like to have the detailed voice over. You choose your level of difficulty and then you can select your focus area from either strength, mobility, or posture. You can then specify further based on what exactly you’re trying to strengthen – abs, glutes, legs, shoulders – you name it, it’s there.

Pilates On Tap doesn’t use pre-recorded videos. It uses short videos showcasing each exercise, threaded together to create a seamless class targeting the goals of the individual user.

It generates a unique tailor-made video for you, every time, taught by a real-life instructor. With a limitless number of possible class combinations, there’s no way you’ll ever need to do the same video twice.

iPhone Double Screenshot

It’s this ability to be specific about what you want to achieve that sets Pilates On Tap apart.

Both the app itself, and the content have been delivered to a meticulous standard. Sarah has spent many years in media production, both in front and behind the camera, which gave her an understanding of high-quality content and an aesthetic of excellence. The tech is neat, the algorithm will progress you on a sliding scale of difficulty or take things down a notch if you say a class was too much. You can also track your improvement on your progress chart as well as save any workouts that you simply loved.

Sarah guides each video with simple, accessible terms without confusing those new to Pilates, particularly when some of the more technical concepts arise. When asked about her vision, Sarah responded, “I wanted to create an app that would provide Pilates content in an entirely bespoke way, whilst being as close as possible to a class setting. That’s what Pilates On Tap is all about, bringing a new method of teaching to people who have been practicing Pilates for years, or for those who are just starting out”.

If you hadn’t guessed, Sarah is passionate about Pilates, having learned herself just how impactful it has been on her own health and wellbeing. She’s worked hard to create a solution that can bring these same benefits to her clients. Having had the opportunity to trial it here at GHP, we are converts!

Find out more about Pilates On Tap:

Visit the website: https://pilatesontap.co.uk/

Or scan the QR Code to download the app!

Pilates On tap

Pricing:

Monthly subscription £9.99

Annual subscription £49.99* per year

*Special offer ends Jan 31st at 23.59 GMT. Usual price £119.88

Shopping For Personal Care Products Online? 5 Tips And Tricks

Personal care products are crucial for maintaining your daily hygiene and beauty routine. With the convenience of online shopping, it’s easier than ever to stock up on your favourite products from your home. However, with the vast selection of online beauty products, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 

That’s why it’s crucial to have a few tips and tricks up your sleeve to help you navigate the online shopping world for personal care products. And buying from reputable online stores such as Wizard Pharmacy Online can be helpful in filling up your stash. This article will provide you with seven essential tips and tricks to help you confidently shop for personal care products online.   

1. Know Your Skin Type And Concerns

Your skin type refers to the natural oil production of your skin, which can be classified as oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. Your skin concerns refer to any specific issues you may have, such as acne, aging, sensitivity, or dark spots.

To determine your skin type, try the ‘barefaced test.’ Cleanse your face and go about your usual morning routine without applying any products. After about an hour, take a look at your skin. You likely have oily skin if your skin feels oily and looks shiny. You likely have dry skin if your skin feels tight and looks dry. If you have oily areas, such as your forehead, nose, and chin, and dry regions, such as your cheeks, you likely have combination skin. You likely have sensitive skin if your skin is easily irritated and prone to redness.

Knowing your skin type and concerns can help you choose products that are suitable for your skin. For example, if you have oily skin, you may want to look for oil-free products labeled as “non-comedogenic,” as these are less likely to clog pores and cause acne. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to look for products labeled as “hypoallergenic” or “fragrance-free,” as these are less likely to irritate your skin.

It’s also a good idea to keep track of any changes in your skin over time, as your skin type and concerns can change due to factors such as age, hormones, and environmental conditions. By staying in tune with your skin’s needs, you can choose the best products to keep your skin healthy and happy.

2. Read Reviews

Reviews from other customers can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and quality of a product. They can help you understand how well a product works for others and whether it may be a good fit for you. When reading reviews, pay attention to both positive and negative reviews.

Positive reviews can give you an idea of what people like about the product, while negative reviews can help you identify any potential issues or concerns. Remember that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.

It’s also important to consider the context of the review – for example, if someone is reviewing a product specifically designed for acne and they don’t have acne, their review may not be as relevant.

3. Look For Ingredients Lists

When reviewing the ingredients list, pay attention to any ingredients you may be allergic to or trying to avoid. For example, if you have sensitive skin, avoid products with fragrances or alcohol. If you’re trying to avoid certain chemicals, such as sulfates or parabens, you can look for products that are labeled as “sulfate-free” or “paraben-free.”

By reviewing the ingredients list, you can make sure the product does not contain any ingredients that may be harmful or irritating to your skin.

4. Compare Prices

It’s always a good idea to compare prices from different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best; you might have saved a little but with consequences on your skin. So, consider cost and effectiveness when making your decision.

5. Look For Promotions And Discounts

 Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts from online retailers. Signing up for newsletters or following retailers on social media can help you stay up-to-date on sales and special offers.

Conclusion

Shopping for personal care products online can be a convenient and cost-effective way to stock up on your favourite items. Following these seven tips and tricks, you can shop confidently and buy the best products for your needs and budget. With some research and careful consideration, you can find the perfect personal care products to keep you feeling clean, fresh, and beautiful.

Ways to Combat Skin Aging

Skin aging is a natural process where skin cells decay and die away leaving us with wrinkles and other side effects. However, skin aging is a symptom and it doesn’t necessarily have to do anything with age. As a matter of fact, exposure to natural elements, bad habits and often hereditary factors can cause your skin to age faster than it normally would.

In most cases, such condition can be mended either by a change of habit or use of skincare products and even Profhilo treatments, for instance, to help rejuvenate and hydrate the skin and give it a fresh makeover.

That being said, some people dread akin aging to the point where they’ll resort to more drastic measures like plastic surgery by which point aged skin is the least of their problems. So with that in mind, here are some ways to combat skin aging and prevent premature wrinkles everyone is so afraid of.

Healthy eating habits to combat aging skin

Eating healthy is one of the best ways to combat aging skin. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your skin looking young and vibrant. Moreover, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps flush out toxins from your body and keeps your skin cells hydrated.

Eating foods rich in antioxidants like blueberries, dark chocolate, and green tea can also help protect against free radical damage that can cause wrinkles and other signs of aging. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon are also beneficial for keeping skin looking youthful as they help reduce inflammation which can lead to premature aging. Finally, limiting processed foods high in sugar and saturated fats will help keep your skin looking its best as these types of foods can contribute to inflammation and breakouts.

Does sun exposure speed up the process of skin aging?

Yes, sun exposure can speed up the process of skin aging. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause premature wrinkles, age spots, and other skin problems. UV radiation is also linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of skin cancer.

Nowadays, direct exposure to sunlight, especially during the hot summer days is especially risky as climate change has made sunlight much more inhospitable towards our skin than what it was a few decades ago. Therefore, when you’re out and about in the daylight, be wary of how much you expose your skin to direct sunlight.

Is it possible to reverse the effects of skin aging?

Once your skin starts to develop symptoms of aging, it’s impossible to reverse it. However, you can minimize the symptoms and maintain a healthy and younger look for your skin with proper treatments or products.

By that time, you’ll have to continuously rely on treatments or products because these methods only slow down the inevitable aging of skin, they do not prevent or reverse it. Everyone grows old eventually and there’s no cure for the mortality of our bodies yet.

To conclude, make sure to practice good skincare habits such as cleansing and moisturizing daily, wearing sunscreen and eating a healthy diet to help keep your skin looking youthful.

Morning Run

Stop the Snooze: Four Benefits of Morning Exercise and How to Establish a Healthy Routine

Morning Run

There is no denying that exercising works wonders for our wellbeing. Going for a jog, lifting a couple of weights or enjoying a yoga class are all activities that can actively help keep our fitness levels and brain health in check. Not only that, but regular exercise can also spur you to consume better food options and make healthier choices, such as cutting down on fried foods and eating less red meat. In short, it has an array of precious advantages.

This said, exercise sessions can be easy to skip or postpone. From busy work schedules to other impeding daily commitments, you may often find it difficult to carve out some time for a dose of much-needed physical activity. This is why you should consider embracing morning workouts more frequently.

With a wide range of health benefits, exercising in the morning can kickstart your day in a positive, wholesome fashion. Here, with some insights from Jonjo Hancock-Fell, at private health cover provider: Westfield Health, we uncover some of the most prominent perks, while offering some tips on how to get into a healthy morning routine.

 

1. Boosts mood and energy

Exercise has the powerful ability to tackle sentiments of stress and boost your morale. In fact, physical activity induces your brain to release more endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that will get your day started on a mental high. What’s more, waking up bright and early to stay healthy can offer a sense of accomplishment from the outset, putting a genuine smile on your face for the rest of day.

Morning exercise also has the capacity to enhance your energy levels, inhibiting feelings of lethargy and sleepiness. It has been found that, by taking part in regular physical activities, inactive people with persistent fatigue can decrease sentiments of tiredness by as much as 65%. Hence, working out in the morning will provide you with the perfect dose of energy to brave your daily duties.

 

2. Helps you focus on the day ahead

Do you struggle to stay alert during the day? Morning exercise could nip the problem in the bud. According to research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, morning workouts have the ability to maximise your decision-making processes, visual learning, and attention span.

Furthermore, exercising before you leave the house for your daily commitments will stimulate blood flow and keep you focused. Physical activity in the morning paired with occasional breaks throughout the day will help you to concentrate and stay productive.

 

3. Limited distractions

There is no hiding that distractions or an unexpected change of plans can disrupt your exercise schedules. Also, as your day goes by, you may find that your to-do list is too extensive, and realise that you do not have time to fit in some all-important physical activity.

Mornings, instead, are the perfect time of day to carry out your fitness sessions with fewer interruptions. Not only will you be able to work out before you start ticking off daily tasks from your agenda, but you are also less likely to be disturbed by emails, text messages, or phone calls.

 

4. Improves sleep

In need of a good night’s rest? Early exercise sessions can work magic on your sleep patterns. In fact, it has been demonstrated that adults enjoy a better night’s sleep if they work out at 7 o’clock in the morning.  

People who exercise in the morning tend to take less time to fall asleep, experience fewer awakenings during the night and benefit from more hours of deep sleep. Why? One of the reasons may be that early-morning light exposure could increase your levels of melatonin in the evenings. Melatonin is a hormone that informs your body that it is night-time, so it helps you both relax and feel sleepy.

 

Tips for morning workouts

Early workouts go a long way in enhancing both your physical and mental wellbeing, therefore benefitting your personal health on the whole.

If you want to give morning workouts a go but don’t know how to start, here are a few tips to find some all-important motivation:

  • Establish a consistent wake-up time – First things first, you may want to consider waking up at the same time (almost) every morning. Keeping your wake-up calls consistent will get your body acclimatised to the new routine, and early awakenings will soon become a natural practice. This way, you will be ready to embrace your morning workouts with confidence and determination.
  • Make realistic plans that work for you – When planning your physical activities, make sure to set out realistic targets and ambitions. Do you feel comfortable going for a half-hour jog in the park? Or would you rather focus on lighter exercises? From practising samba steps to warming up your core with sit-ups, there are many short workouts that can get your day off to a splendid start.
  • Leave your training outfit next to your bed – This is a simple, effective way to streamline your morning and encourage you to nurture your body. If your running shoes are sitting beside your bed, how can you say no to an early, feel-good dose of activity? In fact, keeping your training clothes in sight serves as a visual reminder to get exercising.
  • Find an exercise companion – Do you struggle to find the motivation to get your muscles working first thing in the morning? According to researchers at the University of Aberdeen, finding an exercise buddy can increase the amount of exercise you do. Why? Firstly, they can offer you the emotional support you need to get going. Secondly, morning workouts give you the opportunity to have a chat and a catch-up and can also expand your social circles. What’s not to like?

 

This said, it is important to remember that there are things that exercise cannot aid, including physical problems that require medical intervention. In this case, health cash plans can help you cover some of the costs of essential healthcare, including physiotherapy, allowing you to recover with some much-needed peace of mind. 

From boosting your mood and energy levels to enhancing your sleep and concentration, early workouts bring an array of wellbeing benefits. Not only that, but they allow you to stay in shape in cooler conditions and with fewer distractions. By following a few, simple steps, you can swiftly get into a healthy routine and energise for the day ahead.

scientist or researcher or technician in PPE laboratory suit using microscope for sample blood test overlay with test tube and blood cell

A Global First: Researchers Identify Approximately 100,000 New Types of Viruses Previously Unknown to Science

This is a ninefold increase in the amount of RNA viruses known until now

 

The researchers succeeded in identifying new viruses, even specifying which organisms they are likely to attack. Their discovery is expected to help advance the development of repellents for bacteria, fungi and agricultural pests.

 

A groundbreaking Tel Aviv University study has discovered about 100,000 new types of previously unknown viruses – a ninefold increase in the amount of RNA viruses known to science until now. These viruses were discovered in global environmental data from soil samples, oceans, lakes, and a variety of other ecosystems. The researchers believe that their discovery may help in the development of anti-microbial drugs and in protecting against agriculturally harmful fungi and parasites.

 

The study was led by doctoral student Uri Neri under the guidance of Prof. Uri Gophna of the Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research in the Wise Faculty of Life Sciences at Tel Aviv University. The research was conducted in collaboration with the US-based research bodies NIH and JGI, as well as the Pasteur Institute in France. The research was published in the prestigious journal Cell, and comprised data collected by more than a hundred scientists around the world.

 

Viruses are genetic parasites, meaning they must infect a living cell in order to replicate their genetic information, produce new viruses, and complete their infection cycle. Some viruses are disease-causing agents that can cause harm to humans (such as the coronavirus), but the vast majority of viruses do not harm us and infect bacterial cells – some of them even live inside our bodies without us even being aware of it.

 

Uri Neri says that the study used new computational technologies to mine genetic information collected from thousands of different sampling points around the world (oceans, soil, sewage, geysers, etc.). The researchers developed a sophisticated computational tool that distinguishes between the genetic material of RNA viruses and that of the hosts and used it to analyze the big data. The discovery allowed the researchers to reconstruct how the viruses underwent diverse acclimation processes throughout their evolutionary development in order to adapt to different hosts.

 

In analyzing their findings, the researchers were able to identify viruses suspected of infecting various pathogenic microorganisms, thus opening up the possibility of using viruses to control them. Prof. Gophna: “The system we developed makes it possible to perform in-depth evolutionary analyses and to understand how the various RNA viruses have developed throughout evolutionary history. One of the key questions in microbiology is how and why viruses transfer genes between them. We identified a number of cases in which such gene exchanges enabled viruses to infect new organisms. Furthermore, compared to DNA viruses, the diversity and roles of RNA viruses in microbial ecosystems are not well understood. In our study, we found that RNA viruses are not unusual in the evolutionary landscape and, in fact, that in some aspects they are not that different from DNA viruses. This opens the door for future research, and for a better understanding of how viruses can be harnessed for use in medicine and agriculture.”

Genetic engineering concept. Genetic testing. pharmacy. Regenerative medicine in a lab.

Regrowing Frog Limbs: What Does This Mean For Humankind?

Did you know that salamanders are able to regrow limbs? They can do so thanks to blastema cells, which allow for the almost instant mass formation of stem cells. It’s a relatively unique and fascinating trait!

Thanks to research by the Allen Discovery Centre at Tufts University, frogs are now able to mirror this regenerative function. Not only will this help our beloved amphibians, but it could also work towards developing treatment for humans that have lost limbs.

ABGI, a leading provider of support for R&D tax credits, has explored this innovative research breakthrough and its potential to improve healthcare.

 

How is science transforming the natural biology of frogs?

Science is transforming nature one frog at a time. To make this a reality, a scientist amputated and treated 115 adult African claw frogs with multiple drugs designed to ease inflammation, halt collagen production (in turn avoiding scarring) and encourage the growth of nerve fibres, blood vessels and muscle.

The drugs were then placed into a wearable dome called a BioDome, which was sealed over the frog’s stump for 24 hours. The regeneration process then began after the removal of the BioDome.

The regeneration process doesn’t happen overnight. It took the amputated frogs 18 months to regrow their legs. This may seem like a long time, but when you consider that this included a bone structure and internal tissue that resembled the original frogs’ anatomies, it’s a reasonable timeframe. Even though the legs did not regrow impeccably – for example, there were no bones in the toes – the frogs were able to use them when swimming and moving.

 

How are regenerative drugs beneficial to humans?

Even a brief exposure to the treatment can trigger limb regeneration in frogs, which has led scientist Nirosha Murugan to believe that that “other animals may have dormant regenerative capabilities that can be triggered into action”, possibly including humans.

Just like frogs, humans and most other mammals have little to no regenerative abilities. We can regrow tissue to close a wound, for example, suggesting that our bodies have some innate knowledge on how to regenerate flesh. But there is a big difference between tissue regrowth and bone structure reproduction.

However, with the development of the BioDome, there may be hope for humans yet. If both frogs and humans share similar abilities to develop scar tissue when cut, it is possible that BioDome would have a similar effect when tested on humans.

In fact, Michael Levin, director of the Allen Discovery Centre at Tufts University, has commented that they will be testing the treatment on mammals next: “It’s a strategy focused on triggering dormant, inherent anatomical patterning programmes, not micromanaging complex growth, since adult animals still have the information needed to make their body structures.”

We have a long way to go before regenerative medicine may be tested on humans. Nevertheless, the discovery that the BioDome enables frogs to regrow almost complete limbs is a huge leap for science. In time, people that lose limbs as a result of health conditions, such as diabetes and cancer, could be given the chance to reclaim their independence alongside prosthetics.

The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Right Dermatologist For You

Choosing a dermatologist requires the same thorough and careful selection as you would when finding a doctor for your other health concerns. Your skin is your body’s largest organ and requires precise care. No matter what issues you have with it, it deserves to receive attention from someone who’s trained to solve them.

Dermatologists can help you gain back that confidence that you’ve lost due to skin problems. Whether you have acne, wrinkles, visible pores, pigmentation, or any more complex issues, they will ensure you receive solutions that are sustainable, fit for your budget, and, above all, effective. But how do you find the right one for you?

This brief guide will show all the steps you need to take to find the ideal dermatologist for your needs.

1. Read Patient Reviews 

Before you even book an appointment with a dermatologist, you must first learn what other people think of them and their services. A clinic website is one of the best places to start looking. But you should also look up patient reviews from third-party websites if you want unbiased and more transparent opinions. Read customer testimonials on their Google business listing, too.

While you’re at it, take time to check for pricing so you can think about your budget if ever you choose to visit them. 

Also, don’t forget to visit their social media pages. Check how the doctor’s management team deals with patients’ inquiries, concerns, and questions. See if they’re professional, friendly, and accommodating. You may join discussion groups and forums and ask other patients about their experiences. It won’t hurt to get referrals from others who may have the same skin concerns as you. 

2. Assess Your Dermatology Needs 

There’s a good chance you have a dermatology concern that your preferred dermatologist cannot help you with. So, assess what kind of skin issue you have. Whether you have acne breakouts, dry skin, or sun-damaged skin, it pays to know who is best equipped to deal with them. Doing so will narrow down your dermatologist choices, making it easier to select who is the perfect fit.

There are three types of dermatologists. The first one focuses on medical care, so they’re the right choice if you want to treat issues like acne or rosacea. They provide non-extensive solutions for maladies and make your skin healthier.

The next type focuses on fixing skin issues with surgery. Whether minor or major, they perform operations to remove potentially serious growths on your skin. Visit them to deal with melanomas, cysts, and so on. 

Finally, if your skin concern is purely aesthetic, such as getting rid of pigments and fine lines or making your face look more refined and sculpted, a cosmetic dermatologist should be right for you.

All in all, the best dermatologist for you is one whose specialty closely aligns with your needs. If you’re unsure about what type of dermatologist to seek help from, you can ask your family doctor for advice; usually, they also have their own referrals.

3. Ensure Their Expertise In Your Field 

After assessing your dermatology needs, you now have a category to specifically sort through the available list of dermatologists in the field. For instance, you can check out the list of trusted experts in cosmetic dermatology. You can see what skills and expertise they have and what kind of services or treatments they usually provide.

Check if the dermatologist has treated skin problems similar to yours in the past by looking through their website, landing page, testimonials, portfolio, and customer reviews.

4. Consider Personal Referrals 

As mentioned, your primary care doctor can refer you to dermatologists because they usually have a solid network of fellow doctors from different fields. Aside from that, you can try asking your close family and friends. Chances are they’ve worked with a dermatologist before. 

Seek their personal recommendations. Talk about the skin issues you want to treat so they may refer you to a dermatologist who can deal with them. Ask for their contact information if they have them. Then, give them a call to ask about their clinic location, operating hours, and procedures for reservation. 

5. Check Their Credentials 

Finally, you need to check the dermatologist’s credentials. Check their educational backgrounds, certifications, and affiliated networks or organizations. It’s more likely that a dermatologist with extensive training and experience can provide you with various treatment options depending on your skin problem. After all, you’ll be entrusting them with your body, so it’s crucial to know they can provide the treatment you seek.

Board certification is a big thing you should look for. You can also verify if that dermatologist has been sued for malpractice or was the subject of litigation.

Start Your Search Today

No matter your skin concerns, there’s always a professional ready to help you with them. It’s a matter of finding which ones can give you the solutions you need. By doing careful research and considering these steps, you can narrow down your choices and find the ideal dermatologist to work with.

Happiness group of people huddle and smiling together

The Journey to Your Happy Place: Creating Equilibrium in Your Life

Do you ever just want to escape reality and go to a place where you feel safe, happy, and loved?

We all have that special memory of the past that we like to come back to, or a meditation corner we have created to help us recentre and take some weight off our shoulders.

Happy places are a great way to find balance in a busy world. Here are a few suggestions on how to create or access yours.

 

The happiest countries in the world

Going to a happy place can literally mean packing your backpack and jetting off to one of the happiest destinations in the world.

The 2021 World Happiness Report has determined the world’s happiest countries, and the headliner is Finland. It is followed by Denmark, Switzerland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden.

What makes these countries rank the highest is neighbourhood support, social benefits, and a feeling of security amongst a united community. In Denmark, for example, people are notoriously known for paying the highest tax. Yet they see it as an investment in their quality of life because the tax goes towards supporting free healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits.

Immersing yourself in the community these countries provide will charge you up with some good vibes, which you can then spread back home. Whether you’re going for a weekend or a long-haul holiday, it will definitely be a fresh restart.

 

Join a community

If you’re longing for that community feeling and social interactions to help you recharge your batteries, you can recreate your happy place at home. Just take some inspiration from the community-centred Nordic countries and apply it to your personal social life.

Perhaps you want to join a dance group, a book club, or a Friday night mums’ gathering. Whatever your interests and hobbies are, you are sure to find like-minded people.

A great way to take your friendships to the next level is by organising weekly or monthly gatherings around a certain topic. For example, you can get together and share three good things that happened to you and discuss them, or even do a moon ritual and connect with nature’s divine cycles.

Even indulging in regular shopping therapy and visiting your favourite stores can boost your happiness. There is nothing better than a girl-to-girl confidence boost, and the compliments you get on a pair of pink sandals will do wonders for your mood.

Instilling that sacred feeling of togetherness and love will make you long for more of those special moments. This is your happy place.

 

Imagine your happy place

What if you aren’t always able to visit a happy place physically? Then you can create one mentally.

We’re bestowed with such vast imagination that we can envision any world that we wish. Flicking through images of love, happiness, and beauty, we can easily transcend ourselves to where we feel happy and serene.

Alternatively, we can dive into the well of our memories and treat our bodies and minds to a journey across our cherished past. Thinking about feel-good moments increases our serotonin levels – the happiness hormone known as the mediator for well-being. By boosting this vital neurotransmitter, we’re not only uplifting our mood but are also taking care of our physical health, and mainly the digestive system.

 

Create a safe space

Whether you’re travelling through your memories, discovering new mental worlds, or simply surrendering to the peace and quiet, having a safe space where you can practise this is essential.

Find a corner in your home where you can set the scene. Place cushions and blankets on the floor, light up some candles or incense and ensure you are not disturbed.

You can also incorporate painting, writing, singing, and dancing into the process and unleash your creativity to maximise the results.

This is your ‘me time’, so make it special.

Whenever you feel down or simply need a serotonin boost, travelling to your happy place can be a great fix. Whether you’re visiting an actual place that emits happiness or going into your imagination, the springs of joy are always available for you. Yet the happiest place of all is within yourself – being comfortable with who you are and nurturing it – is your key to a long life!

Girl Wearing Face Mask

Mental Health and Air Quality: Are They Linked?

Girl Wearing Face Mask

Studies have found that poor air quality not only has detrimental effects on our physical health, but also on our mental well-being.

If untreated, being exposed to high levels of air pollution could result in spiralling cases of varying mental health disorders, and it may seem as though this is out of our control.

However, with efforts to reduce air pollution in areas with poor air quality, and individual efforts to monitor air quality in workplaces and households, combatting rising air pollution levels could result in drastic improvements to our mental health.

 

The link between mental health and air quality

“Mental health is an increasingly discussed topic, and our society is shaping into one that is becoming more aware and reactive to it,” says Dr Chunli Cao, Managing Director of Healthy Air Technology and Fellow of CIBSE, who has worked towards creating ground-breaking solutions in the sector.

“This means exploring different avenues that can affect our mental health is crucial, and air quality is one of them,” she adds.

Studies have shown that being exposed to higher levels of harmful particles like Particulate Matter (PM2.5) and Nitrogen Oxide (NO2) can result in a range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

The risks attached to poor air quality can be as severe as to have led to an increase in hospital cases, with mental conditions so poor that the amount of suicides has increased.

Pollutants can enter the body and impact our nervous system, damaging our DNA cells, whilst also entering through our olfactory system into our brain tissue, causing long-term brain damage. In doing so, they can affect how we process emotions, and over time the particles can harm the limbic system – which is the part of the brain that controls our emotional and behavioural responses.

Making the necessary changes to protect our mental health would have various benefits, and even just a small reduction with just one pollutant could save the NHS millions a year.

 

How poor air quality can affect mental development in children

The mental health risks for children can be severe if they are exposed to high levels of air pollution, and according to the World Health Organisation, 93% of children breathe polluted air that is hazardous to their health.

At such a young age, our brains and our behaviour are still developing, and poor air quality, particularly high levels of PM2.5, can greatly damage this development.

If there is continued exposure throughout childhood, there’s a risk of long-lasting effects to brain activity. This can result in anxiety, depression, and attention disorders.

Adolescents can also suffer from mental health disorders, with studies finding that young people living in relatively high levels of ozone led to an increase in depression, with feelings of loneliness, sadness, and self-hate.

Researchers have also discovered that young people who live in areas of higher pollution are three to four times more likely to develop depression by the age of 18.

Therefore, without tackling the root of the problem, the brain’s processes will weaken over time, leading to permanent mental health problems.

 

How to protect our mental health from poor air quality

“We must put measures in place to improve air quality, specifically by reducing air pollution in areas with high levels of pollutants,” states Chunli.

We can look at tackling the problem on a wider scale first, preventing the increase of air pollution through targeting traffic levels and encouraging alternative transport, working collectively as well as needing the council to contribute time and resources.

With years of expertise in air cleansing solutions, Chunli also advocates for monitoring indoor air quality in order to protect our mental health.

She comments: “Individuals and businesses can invest in air purifiers to monitor the air they breathe the majority of their day, both at home and in workplaces.

“This would ensure children are being protected, too, and that our mental health is being made more of a priority through taking preventative and reactive measures in areas that we have control over.”