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University of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine


Antibody findings spark ideas for pan-coronavirus vaccine

Scientists identified five human monoclonal antibodies that can neutralize multiple beta-coronaviruses by targeting a conserved structure in the spike protein. These antibodies showed promise in reducing viral load and enhancing immune responses in hamsters, providing potential inspiration for broadly protective vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Pandemic boosts demand for postal delivery of abortion pill

Two studies published in Contraception found that telehealth abortion improves access to reproductive health services, particularly for low-income persons and those living in rural areas. The studies also showed that most patients prefer receiving abortion pills through the mail and interacting with healthcare providers via telehealth.

Chronic sinus inflammation appears to alter brain activity

Researchers found altered brain activity in individuals with chronic sinusitis, affecting neural networks that modulate cognition and response to external stimuli. Despite no significant clinical impairment, participants showed subtle brain region communication changes associated with attention decline and sleep disturbances.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateApr 8, 2021

Could robots for sex, friendship improve our aging society?

A new paper argues that robots designed for older adults can provide essential human values like social interaction, emotional fulfillment, and bodily integrity. The author suggests that Western cultures' narrow view of sex as lust needs to be challenged, and that robots can enable people to experience physical affection and self-respect.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateNov 16, 2020

An effective way to increase capacity for mental health

Primary-care physicians and rural clinic staff improve their ability to diagnose and treat common mental health disorders using a collaborative care model with telepsychiatry. The study, published in the Annals of Family Medicine, found that this approach enhances primary-care doctors' skills in treating behavioral health disorders.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

Study confirms link between influenza, heart complications

A CDC study of over 80,000 adult patients hospitalized with flu found that sudden, serious heart complications occurred in 12% of patients, or 1 in 8. The study underscores the importance of getting a flu shot early to prevent these complications. Researchers recommend that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every flu season.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 27, 2020