A recent study has revealed significant disparities in diabetes care outcomes across racial and ethnic groups within the Enhanced Primary Care Diabetes (EPCD) model. Conducted at the Mayo Clinic Rochester, the research assessed the efficacy of this nurse-led care delivery model that aims to improve diabetes management in primary care settings. The findings indicate that while overall engagement with the program was high, not all racial groups benefited equally.

The study analyzed health records from 1,749 adults aged 18 to 75 who participated in the EPCD program between January 1 and December 31, 2020. Researchers followed the progress of these patients until August 1, 2022, evaluating how long it took to achieve five key diabetes care goals known as D5. These goals included maintaining a blood pressure reading below 140/90, taking statin medication for cholesterol management, achieving an HbA1c reading below 8%, living tobacco-free, and taking daily aspirin as appropriate.

Overall, 60.7% of the patients met the D5 during the study period. However, the analysis revealed stark differences among racial groups. Black patients with diabetes were significantly less likely to meet the D5 compared to their White counterparts, with a hazard ratio of 0.68 (95% confidence interval: 0.52-0.90; P = .007). In contrast, Asian and Hispanic patients did not display significant differences in outcomes when compared to White patients.

The study further highlighted disparities in care engagement. Asian patients had fewer interactions with nurses, averaging only 0.8 touch points per year, while Black patients had more frequent engagements, with a median of 2.2 touch points annually. Hispanic patients showed no significant variation in nurse contact.

Several factors contributed to the slower attainment of the D5 goals. Younger age, insulin use, fewer baseline D5 components met prior to entering the program, and a lower medication count at the start of the study were all associated with delayed progress.

These findings underscore the need for tailored approaches in chronic disease management programs, particularly those addressing diabetes. Despite increased engagement with care team nurses, Black patients faced significant barriers to achieving key health goals, suggesting that socioeconomic and cultural contexts must be considered in the design and implementation of healthcare programs.

The research was published in The Annals of Family Medicine, authored by J. R. Herges and colleagues, underlining the importance of addressing racial disparities in healthcare. The American Academy of Family Physicians has emphasized the necessity for ongoing efforts to ensure equitable health outcomes across diverse populations, highlighting the critical need for systemic change in diabetes care practices.

Centauri Therapeutics Limited, an innovative immunotherapy company, has received an additional $5.1 million from CARB-X (Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator). This funding will support the advancement of their lead compound, part of the ABX-01 program, into the first in human clinical trials. With this latest contribution, CARB-X has provided a total of $12.3 million to Centauri since 2019.

The funding will aid in the development of a broad-spectrum antimicrobial candidate specifically designed to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial strains. Selected in March 2025, the candidate aims to target serious Gram-negative bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable patient populations. Centauri’s proprietary Alphamer platform underpins this innovative approach, enabling a dual mechanism of action. This combines immunotherapeutic effects through complement fixation and phagocytosis with intrinsic antibacterial properties, all within a single molecule.

Dr. Jennifer Schneider, Chief Executive Officer of Centauri Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of CARB-X’s support. “The unwavering scientific and financial support from CARB-X has provided stability to Centauri as a company, expanded understanding of our Alphamer platform, and enabled us to progress the ABX-01 program from discovery through early development,” she stated. “We are thankful for CARB-X and their continued engagement and confidence, allowing us to move closer to delivering a much-needed therapeutic for serious, drug-resistant Gram-negative infections.”

Dr. Erin Duffy, Chief of Research and Development at CARB-X, also expressed pride in supporting Centauri’s journey. “We have been proud to support Centauri, beginning with answering key questions on the approach and continuing with the drug discovery that has led to the lead asset of ABX-01,” she noted. This collaborative effort aims to build a comprehensive dossier to facilitate the transition into human clinical trials.

The funding provided by CARB-X is underpinned by federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), along with support from Wellcome and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. The content of this announcement reflects the authors’ views and does not necessarily represent the official perspectives of CARB-X or its funders.

As Centauri Therapeutics moves forward, the development of ABX-01 represents a crucial step in addressing the urgent need for effective treatments against drug-resistant infections. The company’s commitment to innovation, combined with significant funding support, positions it well to make substantial contributions to public health in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

As the days grow longer and people bask in the sunshine, many may notice their hair becoming dull and damaged. Factors such as UV exposure, chlorine from swimming pools, and increased heat-styling during summer outings can lead to dry and brittle locks. Fortunately, there are effective and budget-friendly remedies that can help restore hair health without the need for expensive products.

Natural Treatments for Hair Repair

One of the most accessible solutions is using pure aloe vera gel, available at retailers like Holland & Barrett for approximately £4.86. This versatile gel not only alleviates sunburn but also nourishes dry scalps and minimizes split ends. Simply massage the gel into the roots to calm irritation or apply it to the lengths of hair to lock in moisture.

A sweet and simple treatment involves creating a scalp scrub by mixing one tablespoon of sugar with two tablespoons of olive oil. This exfoliating combination effectively removes product buildup and promotes circulation. Gently massaging this mixture into the scalp before shampooing can help eliminate flakes, leaving hair healthier.

For those who enjoy swimming, an apple cider vinegar rinse can be particularly beneficial. Combining one part vinegar with three parts water creates a clarifying rinse that removes chlorine residue, resulting in glossy, vibrant hair. After shampooing, pour the mixture over hair, leave it on for two minutes, and rinse thoroughly to reveal a refreshed look.

Another effective and economical remedy is a DIY conditioning mask. By blending two tablespoons of honey, one mashed banana, and one tablespoon of coconut oil, individuals can create a nourishing treatment. Applying this mask to damp hair and leaving it for 30 minutes before rinsing can effectively tame frizz and restore shine due to the natural enzymes and oils present.

Additional Tips for Hair Care

A final rinse with green tea can also enhance hair shine. Brew two green tea bags in a mug, allow it to cool for 30 minutes, and use the liquid as a final rinse. This method not only adds gloss but also reduces brassiness, providing a more polished appearance.

To protect hair while sleeping, individuals can forgo expensive silk bonnets and instead repurpose a satin dressing gown. By tying hair in a loose topknot and wrapping it with the fabric, this method can help prevent hair breakage overnight.

For an additional layer of care, applying a pea-sized amount of pure glycerin to damp ends before bed can promote moisture retention. Priced around £6 at Superdrug, glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture into the hair strands throughout the night, ensuring a longer-lasting treatment.

These strategies not only address immediate concerns regarding damaged hair but also promote healthier hair practices overall. With minimal investment and readily available ingredients, anyone can give their hair the attention it deserves, turning damaged locks into luscious, revitalized tresses.

British Columbia has experienced a significant rise in the use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) following the province’s decision to make prescription contraception free of charge. Within just 15 months of implementing this policy in April 2023, over 11,000 additional women opted for LARC methods, reflecting a remarkable 49-percent increase in dispensations.

Research conducted by the University of British Columbia (UBC) sheds light on this noteworthy trend. The study tracked nearly 860,000 women aged 15 to 49 and revealed that cost had previously been a substantial barrier to accessing effective contraceptive methods such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants. These methods can cost up to $450 out of pocket, making them unaffordable for many.

Impact of the Policy Shift

The introduction of universal, no-cost coverage for prescription contraception marks a pivotal change in how reproductive-aged women manage their birth control choices. The policy was implemented with minimal advertising, relying primarily on standard government announcements that emphasized the promise of free access. This straightforward message proved sufficient to encourage thousands of women who had previously been priced out of the most effective options.

The implications of this policy are profound. LARC methods are known to be ten times more effective than traditional options like birth control pills or condoms. By eliminating the financial barrier, British Columbia has found an effective means to reduce unintended pregnancies and enhance reproductive autonomy among women.

A Model for Other Regions

Dr. Laura Schummers, the lead author of the study and assistant professor in UBC’s faculty of pharmaceutical sciences, suggests that the success of this initiative could serve as a model for other provinces and even for national pharmacare programs. The clear evidence demonstrating that cost-free access drives the uptake of effective contraception strengthens the case for expanding such programs.

As the discussion on reproductive health continues, British Columbia’s approach offers a straightforward strategy to improve access to essential health services. The findings of the study, set to be published in the BMJ, underscore the potential for similar initiatives to transform contraceptive access beyond provincial borders.

In conclusion, the shift towards free contraceptive access in British Columbia represents not only a significant change in reproductive health policy but also a potential blueprint for other regions looking to enhance women’s health and autonomy.