Internal Medicine Alert – March 30, 2024
March 30, 2024
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Identifying Risk Factors for Young-Onset Dementia
In this large, population-based prospective cohort study, the investigators identified 15 risk factors that have strong associations with young-onset dementia. Modifications of these risk factors might delay the onset of, or prevent the development of, young-onset dementia.
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Effect of Atrial Fibrillation Catheter Ablation on Psychological Well-Being
A randomized trial of catheter ablation vs. medical therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients has shown that anxiety and depression scores are significantly reduced by catheter ablation and are associated with decreases in AF burden and improved physical symptoms.
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Neuropeptides in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome
The diurnal onset of restless legs syndrome (RLS) has been replicated in a mouse model using central instillation of the main melanocortin agonist, α-MSH, which stimulates excessive locomotion and grooming in rodents as well as a state of hyperalgesia. The actions of β-endorphin (β-EDP) oppose those of α-MSH, since β-EDP promotes passivity and analgesia. In this study, these prohormones were measured in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid in patients with RLS and compared to controls. Patients with RLS had elevated levels of α-MSH and lower levels of β-EDP compared to the control group.
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Is Cannabis Abuse During Pregnancy Associated with Poor Neonatal Outcomes?
Cannabis use disorder is associated with small but significant increased risks measured in multiple neonatal outcomes.
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Omalizumab Injection (Xolair)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the first medication to help reduce allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur after accidental exposure to multiple foods. Omalizumab is a recombinant humanized IgG1k monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to immunoglobulin E (IgE) lowering free serum IgE levels.