New Research
Researcher at the Tel Aviv University in Israel may have found a way to diagnose schizophrenia by testing microRNA molecules in neurons from the nose. Neurons would be removed through a biopsy. MicroRNA molecules regulate gene expression. Researchers found that schizophrenic patients had more of one type of microRNA than non-schizophrenic patients. More testing is required before this method can be used to diagnose the disease, however, as researchers are unsure of whether the microRNA changes begin before or after schizophrenia symptoms begin to show. Currently, the only way to definitively diagnose schizophrenia is through sampling the brain during autopsy.
— MedicalNewsToday.com
Number to Know
164 million: number of American homeowners who have gardened in the last 12 months, as stated in a 2012 report on GreenhouseManagement.com.
Boomer Health: Tips for avoiding physical discomfort while gardening
Fresh packets of seeds, the dirt between your fingers, and the smell of freshly churned earth – gardening season has officially begun. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a newbie to home planting, gardening is a great activity that provides both physical and mental health benefits.
In addition to burning calories while enjoying the peacefulness of Mother Nature, one unwelcome part of taking up gardening as a hobby is the potential for strain and injury. To get the most out of your time gardening, consider these tips for avoiding physical discomfort:
Start with a few stretches
Before grabbing your tools and heading to your yard, spend five or 10 minutes doing stretches focusing on your arms, legs, back and neck. You’ll be moving and turning a lot, so be sure to stretch and loosen muscles to avoid strain when you’re out tending your garden.
Avoid bending and lifting the wrong way
Chronic back pain is an issue for many Americans both young and old. Just because you have back issues doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy gardening. Consider installing raised garden beds, which allow you to garden without having to bend over. Additionally, container gardens can be placed on tables or deck railings for easy access. If you don’t suffer from back pain, avoid back injury by bending and lifting the right way. Remember to maintain good posture, minimize quick twisting motions, bend at the hips and knees only, lift items in a slow and controlled manner, and enlist help if necessary.
Protect skin from the sun
One of the best parts of gardening is you get to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, but that can mean extended time in the sun so it’s important to protect your skin. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and light cotton clothing that covers exposed skin are good first steps. Always apply a water-resistant, broad-spectrum lotion that is SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes prior to going outside, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.
These simple tips will help position you for a full season of gardening delights. Without injury or other physical irritations, you’ll be able to savor the fruits of your labor in the beauty of the warm weather.
— Brandpoint
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