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- Blue Wavelength Light Treatment for Improving Sleep in Patients with
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Hassan Masood
Abstract: Traumatic live events comprise the etiology of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD patients are known to face adverse impacts on their mental and physical health. Symptoms of concern relating to PTSD include heightened anxiety levels, intrusive memories, nightmares, and problems with sleeping. Disrupted sleep leads to exhausted brain function that impedes the daily activities of individuals and impacts their perceived quality of life. Therefore, researchers have sought to examine interventions that help improve sleep and circadian rhythms. Recently, blue-light therapy has been the target of clinical research to understand its role in alleviating PTSD symptoms. Results from clinical trials showed that patients receiving blue light showed significant reductions in daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Furthermore, these individuals showed faster reaction times and greater phase advances in circadian rhythms, leading to earlier sleep onset at night. As we work towards focusing our attention on addressing mental health issues, investigating the benefits of non-pharmacological interventions such as blue-light therapy can help improve the health outcomes of PTSD patients.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3357
- The Relationship between β-blockers and Mental Health
Authors: Yash Joshi, Bianca Mammarella
Abstract: Beta-blockers (β-blockers) are pharmacotherapeutics that have been used to treat patients with cardiovascular symptoms since their discovery in the 1960s. They work by targeting B1 and B2 receptors which are involved the stress response, which consequently lead to reduced activation of the “flight-or-fight mechanism”. It has also been noticed that β-blockers can be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders and other mental health complications. Currently, the only approved drugs for anxiety and other mental health conditions include benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Historically, there has been strong resistance to the use of β-blockers in mental health treatment because of the prevalence of depressive symptoms during treatment. Recently, a growing number of studies have seen that there is no strong relationship between β-blockers and depression in patients. Although there are still other adverse effects related to the usage of β-blockers, investigating the relationship between depressive symptoms and β-blockers may suggest a potential therapeutic option in mental health treatments. This review explores the history of β-blockers, their mechanism of action, developments in their use as a mental health treatment and current approved pharmacotherapeutics for mental health.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3392
- Efficacy of Scalp Cooling in the Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced
Alopecia Among Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Hassan Masood
Abstract: Alopecia refers to hair loss, which is a common side-effect of chemotherapy regimens for cancer. Anthracyclines and taxanes are the common anticancer drugs prescribed within chemotherapy that result in significant alopecia. Scalp cooling is identified to be an effective method that prevents chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) in patients. This method has been present since 1974; however, novel technologies have enhanced the efficacy via modern scalp-cooling devices. By maintaining a low scalp temperature, vasoconstriction aids in the reduced absorption of anticancer drugs into the bloodstream, which reduces intrafollicular metabolism. Randomized controlled trials conducted recently found statistically significant results, evidencing the hair preservation and hair regrowth abilities yielded via scalp cooling. These results attracted the attention of researchers due to the treatment success and the patient safety aspect of the process. Extensive scientific research reveals that alopecia affects the perceptions of patients regarding their body image and lowers their self-esteem significantly. Furthermore, the quality of life of alopecia patients is reduced due to public stigmatization. The effectiveness of scalp cooling in preventing CIA is of high significance as it can help improve patient outcomes of patients undergoing chemotherapy and their mental well-being.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3356
- Effects of knowledge about tuberculosis on its prevalence in Inuit
communities in Nunavut, Northern Canada
Authors: Hassan Masood
Abstract: Rising tuberculosis cases are a global health issue that the United Nations Member States have committed to eradicating by 2030. In developed countries such as Canada, TB affects Indigenous populations disproportionately. Inuit people have 300 times greater risk of TB infections compared to non-Indigenous people. Due to Canada's colonial history, Indigenous people remain underrepresented in healthcare. Therefore, this research proposal aims to understand the link between the lack of access to resources, such as knowledge about tuberculosis and the rising TB cases, among Inuit people in Northern Canada. It is hypothesized that due to marginalization and cultural ignorance, preventative measures are not accessible to Inuit people and can influence the high transmission of the disease. Based on the results of the inclusive design of this research, future studies can aim to help voice the concerns of Indigenous people and advocate for their right to access equitable healthcare.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3347
- The Effect of Varying Eccentric Velocity on Muscle Hypertrophy
Authors: Muhammad Amjad, Randy Dumont
Abstract: Resistance training is essential to muscle hypertrophy as it fatigues fibres through time-under-tension (TUT). As myocyte energy depletes, metabolites accrete, leading to inflammation to increase cell size, so it is adapted for future stimuli. TUT can be measured by varying eccentric velocities: i.e., the rate at which a muscle lengthens under load. A longer period of lengthening will lead to greater metabolite accretion and inflammation. However, it is unknown whether TUT is a threshold or if it can gradually increase and lead to more muscle growth. Through a literature review and experiment, this project investigates the effect of varying eccentric velocity on muscle hypertrophy. Previous research in the field of muscle physiology and metabolism were explored, with an emphasis on eccentric training. The supplementary experiment measured shoulder growth in response to the medial deltoid exercise called lateral raises, where different eccentric velocities were assigned to groups. Individualistic daily calorie and protein intake were controlled to ensure that sufficient nutrients were available for recovery and performance. Surprisingly, post-experimental research suggested that high-velocity eccentric training was best for hypertrophy due to greater levels of force production. This was consistent with the experiment, which found that the group with a fast-velocity eccentric, a lower TUT, experienced greater growth. They also exhibited greater strength gain due to neuromuscular junction adaptation. These findings related to TUT are significant for designing exercise regimens that are optimal for the prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. The review’s findings suggest that fast-velocity eccentric contractions are ideal for increasing muscle size and strength.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3339
- ComSciConCAN and the Positive Impacts on STEM Graduate Students’
Confidence and Sense of Belonging
Authors: Saba Mostaghim, Katie Moisse, Adina Silver
Abstract: Background: Although Science Communication (SciComm) is a growing field, there currently exist a large number of undergraduate- and graduate- level SciComm training programs worldwide. Two noted benefits of such programs are improvement in SciComm confidence and sense of belonging. ComSciConCAN is a graduate level SciComm conference; no studies have previously looked into the impacts of this conference, which encouraged us to initiate this study. Purpose: To explore the impacts of ComSciConCAN on the participants’ confidence in communicating with other scientists and the general public, and their sense of belonging in their current STEM programs and SciComm activities Methods: ComSciConCAN-2021 participants were asked to complete pre- and post- workshop surveys. Data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel, and unpaired t-test statistical analysis was conducted (when applicable) using Graphpad. Results: With regards to confidence, significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the mean levels reported for all three cases pre- versus post- conference. Regarding sense of belonging, 65% and 83% of the participants reported at least “somewhat agreeing” that the workshops will help improve this in their current STEM program and SciComm activities, respectively. Conclusion: The conference did have a positive impact on the participants’ SciComm confidence and senses of belonging.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3383
- Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Joseph Lawton, Muhammad Amjad
Abstract: Over the last few decades, the discussion surrounding men’s health issues has sparked an increased interest in the treatment of male hypogonadism—the deficiency of testosterone in the body—through testosterone replacement therapy, in order to improve patients’ quality of life. This makes it a worthwhile consideration for further research as many studies do not sufficiently explore the long-term benefits and drawbacks, which may tip the scales on whether it should be prescribed to patients moving forward. It is worth weighing the effects that the treatment offers, as well as examining which patients are most suitable for the therapy and why, from a health cost-benefit analysis. Many of the benefits that this review will touch on relate to the symptoms of hypogonadism, most notably decreased libido, muscle mass, and emotional well-being. This review will also consider the potential side effects of treatment through the investigation of short- and long-term studies that include observational, surveyable, and empirical data. Some of the drawbacks include increased risk of various organ cancers and systemic tissue damage. Holistically, this review will provide insight on the basics of testosterone replacement therapy, who benefits most, who is at risk, and how its understanding can be improved moving forward.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3364
- Social Justice Movements: Fighting for a better tomorrow
Authors: Hassan Masood
Abstract: Social justice movements are an essential factor in driving change and ensuring equity for everyone. Globally, there are several issues prevailing that do not receive adequate attention, which causes victims to suffer. Social justice implies the idea that everyone deserves equal rights and access to good health. Unified societal efforts have the potential to tackle large-scale problems across the globe. This infographic aims to raise awareness regarding some of the issues the world is facing and presents society-driven movements as a way of calling attention to the problems and finding pathways to solutions. Examples of successful movements are mentioned in this infographic, and statistics shown prove that collective efforts are needed to ensure a safe space for everyone. This infographic also provides vital information regarding the funds raised for three movements and the number of individuals taking part in fighting for the cause.
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3345
- Sciential Issue 10
Authors: Sciential Journal
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.15173/sciential.v1i10.3517
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Open Access journal
