What is familial Mediterranean fever? The genetic disorder causes painful inflammation

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a genetic disorder causing periodic fevers and inflammation, particularly affecting individuals of Mediterranean descent. UCLA Health's Familial Mediterranean Fever Program, the only one in the Western Hemisphere, offers specialized care and research for FMF patients. The program emphasizes early diagnosis and treatment with colchicine, though some patients require alternative treatments like canakinumab. The clinic also compiles patient data for research, aiming to understand variations in disease presentation and treatment response. The article highlights the experiences of patients and the dedication of medical professionals in managing this lifelong condition.

For genomic sequencing needs, researchers turn to UCLA Health

UCLA Health's Technology Center for Genomics Bioinformatics (TCGB) is a leading hub for genomic sequencing, providing advanced techniques to researchers across the country. The center offers bulk, single-cell, and spatial sequencing, with spatial sequencing emerging as a dominant tool. TCGB supports a wide range of research, including melanoma treatment studies, by offering comprehensive sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Despite high equipment costs, TCGB maintains competitive fees due to high demand and specialized expertise, distinguishing itself from other genomics centers.

How Walmart Bypassed the Port System During the Pandemic

In October 2021, the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports faced severe bottlenecks due to supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather, and labor shortages. Walmart addressed these challenges by hiring its own ships, resulting in significant sales growth during the 2021 holiday season. This move highlights Walmart's influence over global trade and its impact on other retailers. The article also touches on the 2023 United Nations Climate Conference, where food systems were a major focus, and the National ROPS Rebate Program, which faces a funding shortfall despite its success in preventing tractor-related injuries and deaths.

Mosaic has now closed

Wellcome's digital platform Mosaic, dedicated to long-form journalism about science and health, was active between 2014 and 2019 and has now closed. The organization expresses gratitude to its supporters and contributors. Some past content remains accessible on the Internet Archive.

Far From Home, the Curry Leaf Tree Thrives

Anand Prasad, inspired by his grandfather's journey from India to Fiji, successfully grows curry leaf trees in the U.S., overcoming initial challenges of climate adaptation. The curry leaf tree, native to tropical Asia, has become a staple in Indian and Sri Lankan cuisines and is now widely available in the U.S. through Asian grocery stores and online platforms. Prasad's farm outside Los Angeles is one of the largest commercial growers, highlighting the plant's successful adaptation and cultural significance.

Podcast: Chaos at the Kumbh, and Other Stories of Pandemic Travel Restrictions

The podcast episode from Scrolls & Leaves discusses the historical context of travel restrictions during pandemics, tracing back to the 19th century cholera pandemic and the British Raj's increased surveillance of Indians. It highlights the limited effectiveness and potential negative consequences of travel bans, such as stigma, restricted movement of healthcare supplies, and discouragement from disclosing illness. The episode, featuring surveillance expert Martin French from Concordia University, critiques the use of travel bans and suggests that investments may be better allocated to public health needs.

Tractor Rollovers Kill Dozens on Farms Each Year—and a Prevention Program Is at Risk

Tractor rollovers are a leading cause of death in the farming community, and a rebate program for installing Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) has been effective in preventing these accidents. However, the program is at risk due to a lack of funding, as it no longer qualifies for research grants. The NEC, which administers the program, needs at least $125,000 annually to maintain its operations. Advocates, including the American Farm Bureau Federation and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, support federal funding for the program, ideally through the USDA and the upcoming farm bill. Despite the program's success and support, no legislation has been introduced to secure its future funding.

How Bees Are Helping Save Elephants From Train Collisions in India

In India, train collisions have resulted in numerous elephant deaths, particularly in hotspots like West Bengal and Assam. Conservation efforts are underway to mitigate these incidents, including the use of infrared sensors, drones, and devices that broadcast the sound of swarming honeybees to deter elephants. Long-term solutions such as constructing overpasses, underpasses, and fencing are also being considered. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including non-compliance with speed regulations and the potential for increased elephant deaths due to new railway tracks being laid in sensitive areas.

Millions of People Are Still Risking Their Health for Lighter Skin

The article explores the pervasive cultural bias towards lighter skin, particularly in India, and the health risks associated with skin-lightening practices. It highlights the efforts of advocacy groups like Women of Worth and campaigns such as Dark is Beautiful to combat this bias. The piece discusses the role of multinational cosmetics brands in perpetuating the demand for skin-lightening products and the dangerous health implications of using such products, including mercury and steroid creams. Personal stories and expert opinions underscore the deep-rooted nature of this issue, which is further complicated by historical, social, and economic factors.

Safe disposal of narcotics is key to reducing children's opioid deaths

The United States faces a significant issue with opioid overdose deaths, affecting not only adults but also children and adolescents. A study by UCLA pediatric orthopedic surgeons highlights that current methods of educating parents and providing disposal bins for leftover narcotics are insufficient. The study suggests that more accessible disposal options and comprehensive education are needed to prevent opioid misuse among children and teenagers. The authors emphasize the importance of safe opioid use and the need for a multi-pronged approach to narcotic stewardship, including pre-operative education and reminders for parents.