Health and Medicine (Audio)

Explore the captivating realm of brain research at UC San Diego with Frank Furnari, Ph.D., and Alexander Khalessi, M.D., M.B.A. Furnari and Khalessi delve into groundbreaking efforts to find new treatments for neurological conditions such as brain tumors, stroke, and brain injuries, bringing hope to patients and their families. Emphasizing ethics, innovation, and patient care, Furnari and Khalessi shed light on the challenges and successes in their quest to unravel the mysteries of the mind. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39723]

UC Davis researchers are developing innovative technology ​​to help older adults maintain independence while staying connected with loved ones. The new I-Care platform combines task management tools with advanced sensor technology to address challenges like cognitive decline and social isolation while also reducing caregiver burnout. Watch as our experts improve the future of senior care. Series: "UC Davis News" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40175]

Colin Depp delves into the critical role of social connections in our well-being, particularly in the context of aging. Depp explores the impacts of digital versus in-person interactions, the influence of cultural differences on social needs, and the potential health benefits of both deep and superficial connections. Depp also discusses the challenges of loneliness, the effects of grief, and offers practical daily practices to strengthen social ties. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39388]

A Neuroprosthesis for Speech Decoding and Avatar Control Series: "UC San Francisco News" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40235]

Perpetual stress runs us down. But a truly restorative state that alters our bodies at the cellular level can counter this deterioration. Series: "UC San Francisco News" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40226]

UCSF researchers have conducted successful trials of an experimental adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) device that responds to a person with Parkinson’s symptoms in real time. Using data techniques and custom algorithms, the device picks up on brain signals that indicate a symptom is developing and delivers just the right amount of electrical stimulation to stop it. The research is a collaboration between UCSF’s Phil Starr, MD, PhD, and Simon Little, MBBS, PhD, in the UCSF Department of Neurology. Series: "UC San Francisco News" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40225]

Catherine Yeung, Pharm.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., discusses groundbreaking advancements in kidney-on-a-chip technology, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize human health. She delves into the role of environmental toxins, such as okra toxin A, microplastics, and plasticizers, in contributing to chronic kidney disease, particularly in regions with specific dietary practices. Yeung also addresses the challenges of replicating adult kidney cells from stem cells, which often retain a fetal phenotype, and underscores the value of stem cell-derived models for genetic manipulation and disease research. Additionally, she highlights the increased risk of kidney stones in astronauts post-spaceflight and the broader implications of organ-on-chip technology for studying therapies and diseases. Series: "Women in Science" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39458]

Curious about what happens to our cells as we age and how it affects our health? Shiri Gur-Cohen explores the role of tiny chemical tags on our DNA, like methylation, in influencing our healing and overall well-being. Gur-Cohen discusses how these tags might be shaped by our body's systems, such as the lymphatic system, and could even help repair or regenerate various parts of our body. Gur-Cohen proposes that uncovering these processes could lead to innovative ways to slow aging or boost our body’s natural healing capabilities. Series: "Women in Science" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39979]

Fungi play a crucial role in our natural ecosystem. Environmental scientist Danielle Stevenson discusses the great impact fungi can have on soil quality and a healthier food supply. Series: "Wellbeing " [Health and Medicine] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 40174]

Michael Lane, Ph.D., shares his work investigating the effects of cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) on breathing and upper extremity function, focusing on the potential for spontaneous functional recovery, or "plasticity." Lane also discusses efforts to develop and test strategies to promote beneficial plasticity and recovery following cervical SCI, with a particular emphasis on improving respiratory function and activity in respiratory muscles. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39457]