Research News

By Nancy Kennedy

Medical research is the engine that drives medical progress and innovation. Research scientists develop new technologies, therapy options, new medications and procedures and add them to their repertoire of interventions and treatments, for the benefit of patients. In this and future issues of The Guide to Good Health, we will present brief summaries of current and recent research studies that are interesting and innovative, and may have relevance for your health and that of your loved ones.

Pennsylvania ranks 24th for the most expensive assisted living facilities

The state of Pennsylvania is experiencing a surge of demand for assisted living facilities, as the Baby Boomer generation ages. Affordability, safety and competent caregiving are priorities for seniors with declining health or mobility, and for their families. In our state, the average cost of assisted living is $4190, while the national average is $4401. The alarming rise in costs is putting a financial strain on families and on the assisted living industry. This updated information was reported in the journal Seniorly.

We Knew that Autoimmune Diseases Affect Women More than Men; Now We Know Why

A research study conducted at Stanford University investigated the longstanding mystery about why 80% of people with autoimmune diseases are female. They were surprised to discover that the molecule known as Xist, that is made by one of a female’s 2 X chromosomes can cause a woman to develop autoimmunity, in which antibodies try to destroy her own body tissues. These antibodies attack various organs in diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, myositis, scleroderma and others.

Every female has two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y. The Xist molecule only exists in women, and produces RNA that silences the inactive X chromosome. This is believed to drive the development of autoimmune diseases. This discovery may be a breakthrough for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, many of which have no cure and are often disabling.

Cardiology News: Too much protein intake can lead to atherosclerosis

The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has published a study in Nature Metabolism which reveals that excessive dietary protein intake can damage the arteries by increasing the amount of atherosclerosis, the loss of flexibility and blood flow in the arteries. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the deposit of plaque in the walls of the arteries, narrowing them. This can lead to heart attack and stroke. High intake of protein is a very popular trend in the U.S., especially among athletes and others who are striving to increase their muscle mass and strength. Previously, the development of plaque was believed to be associated with excessive intake of fat and cholesterol, but not protein.

Drug resistant bacteria are responsive to an experimental treatment

The American Society for Microbiology has published a new article that describes an experimental treatment for a drug-resistant bacterial infection, known as E. faecism. The infection resisted the usual treatment and had recurred multiple times in a female patient despite antibiotics. Bacteriophage treatment, which utilizes viruses to infect and kill bacteria, was given to the patient along with antibiotics. The outcome was successful and the patient was discharged to home.

New research suggests that “scents” may be a new tool to enhance your recovery

A team of researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and UPMC Social Work department have discovered that smelling a familiar scent as part of their therapy might help individuals with depression to recover. The study, published in the JAMA Network, showed that odors and scents are more effective than words at helping patients access important memories. Memory recall is an important aspect of depression recovery; they help patients solve problems, regulate emotions and change their thought patterns. The study was headed by Kymberly Young PhD.