Jan. 4, 2023

Possible treatment of Huntington’s disease suggested by UCI study

UCI researchers have linked a brain cell mutation that causes Huntington’s disease to developmental deficits caused by changes in metabolism. They found that high doses of thiamine and biotin can restore normal brain processes. Published online in Nature Communications, the study provides detailed insight into the entire process of these changes, as well as the value of treating HD with high doses of thiamine and biotin, which are B vitamins involved in a wide range of metabolic processes that help keep the nervous system healthy.

UCI experts named among OC’s most influential people

Each year, The Orange County Register scours the county’s nearly 3.2 million people for those who have made an outstanding impact in the world. This year, the newspaper included in its list of 125 most influential people Dr. Coleen Cunningham, chair of the Department of Pediatrics; James Bullock, dean of the School of Physical Sciences; Andrew Noymer, associate professor of population health & disease prevention; and Jane Stoever, clinical professor of law.

When to worry about varicose veins

At least three in 10 U.S. adults suffer from varicose veins – swollen, often twisted blood vessels that lie just beneath the skin, usually on the legs and feet. Although the condition is not typically life-threatening, many people seek treatment because they regard the veins as unsightly or embarrassing. But they can also lead to more serious health issues: swelling, ulcers, skin discoloration and a related condition called chronic venous insufficiency, in which blood pools in the lower leg. There is also a small risk for developing blood clots in one of the major veins in the leg. UCI Health’s Live Well blog asked Dr. Isabella J. Kuo and Dr. Mark A. Smith, board-certified UCI Health vascular surgeons, to explain what causes varicose veins and when you should consult a doctor.

SoCal hospitals still stressed by flu/COVID/RSV ‘tripledemic’

The start of the year has brought a mild reprieve in the so-called tripledemic, but some Southern California hospitals continue to experience an influx of patients affected by flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles remains so busy that it cannot always accommodate transfers of patients from other hospitals, and hospitals in Orange County have been facing higher staff shortages over the prior week, with many employees calling out sick.

‘Bomb cyclone’ storm warning

Southern California will be hit with a major rainstorm known as a “bomb cyclone” today and Thursday, according to a National Weather Service warning. Heavy rains and wind are expected to pour between 2 and 4 inches locally, causing extensive flooding and possible mudslides, as well as power outages and blocked roads from debris and downed trees. Residents are advised to remain indoors if possible.

Anteater recognized for fighting human trafficking

Eleven years ago, Kelsey Morgan interviewed a Ugandan survivor of human trafficking while researching the global impact of sexual slavery. Inspired by the woman’s courage, the UCI international studies graduate developed a model to combat trafficking. In 2015, the alumna founded her own nonprofit organization, Willow international. Six years later, she teamed up with another organization with the same mission, 10ThousandWindows. Together, they formed EverFree, an international nonprofit, to fight human trafficking. Over the years, the organizations have helped thousands of survivors heal from their experiences.

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