By Joy Johnson, CNMT
Nuclear Medicine - Lead Technologist, Blanchard Valley Health System

Nuclear medicine testing is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to provide information about the physiological function of tissues and organs, such as blood flow, metabolism, and biochemical processes. This can be particularly useful in diagnosing certain diseases, monitoring treatment responses, and assessing disease progression. Other imaging modalities like X-rays, CT scans, and MRI primarily provide structural images of the body.

Radiopharmaceuticals are drugs containing radioactive isotopes. These isotopes emit gamma rays that are detected by specialized cameras. In contrast, other imaging modalities use external sources of energy (X-rays, magnetic fields, etc.) to create images. The amount of radiation used in nuclear medicine tests is considered safe for patients. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women are typically advised to avoid these tests unless absolutely necessary. ▶︎

By Karen Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of the ONU HealthWise team

On April 2, 1956, Johnny Cash recorded his first number 1 country hit I Walk the Line at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee.  The song crossed genres and ranked number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100. In an interview, Johnny indicated he wrote the song about resisting temptation and being accountable in relationships. 

By Aline Kamatali, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, MPH, LL.M, LL.B
Certified Nurse Practitioner, Physicians Plus Urgent Care 

Obesity Facts
Obesity is a significant public health challenge in the United States, with more than 40% of adults affected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

By Karen Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of the ONU HealthWise team

On September 15, 1980, American rocker Pat Benatar released her single Hit Me With Your Best Shot. Eddie Schwartz, who wrote and produced the song, was inspired after he started using bioenergetics. His therapy was punching a pillow. Bioenergetics involves improving well-being while releasing blocked energy.  

By James H. Legge III, MSN, APRN-CNP, PMHNP
Certified Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Center of Northwest Ohio 

The holiday months (mid-November to post-January) can be extremely difficult for loved ones suffering from mental illness. It’s postulated that family members and friends can reach intolerable levels of anxiety and depression during this time due to accentuated family dynamics, financial strain, and other stressors.  

By Torrie Smith, Student Pharmacist and Karen Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of the ONU HealthWise team

In 1993, the romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle, starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks, was released. The movie was one of the top grossing films of 1993. The movie was inspired by An Affair to Remember (1957) and Love Affair (1939). Interestingly, Rita Wilson, who is married to Tom Hanks, plays his sister in the movie.

Can being sleepless or having altered sleep patterns affect your health?

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