Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Study addresses misconceptions about electroconvulsive therapy

A new study has found that patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for psychiatric disorders have a positive experience, with 80% viewing the treatment as useful and 70% finding it more efficacious than drug therapy. The study aims to validate ECT as a less frightening option by improving its administration standards.

SourceWiley·JournalProgress in Neurology and Psychiatry·DateJun 5, 2017

New drug shows durable efficacy across diverse pediatric and adult cancers

A new cancer medicine, larotrectinib, has demonstrated compelling evidence for treating a range of advanced cancers. The therapy, which targets TRK fusion proteins, resulted in responses in 76% of patients across 17 different types of cancer. After 12 months of treatment, 79% of responding patients remained progression-free.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 4, 2017

FDA-approved drug helps treat rare immunologic disease, study finds

A Phase 3 clinical trial found that adding mepolizumab to standard treatment for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) significantly improved remission rates, with 28% of participants achieving remission after one year. The disease was in remission at weeks 36 and 48 in 32% of participants who received mepolizumab.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 18, 2017

New therapeutic approaches for uveitis featured in special festschrift issue

The Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics presents novel therapeutic approaches for treating uveitis, including cyclosporine, topical ganciclovir, and regulatory T cell therapy. These advances aim to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with autoimmune uveitis.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateMay 15, 2017

Screening for preeclampsia in pregnant women recommended

The USPSTF concludes that screening for preeclampsia has a substantial net benefit, allowing for early identification and effective treatment to prevent serious complications. Moderate-certainty evidence supports the effectiveness of well-established treatments in reducing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 25, 2017

Telestroke guidelines from American Telemedicine Association in Telemedicine & e-Health

The American Telemedicine Association has published new guidelines to improve remote stroke care using telemedicine communication technologies. The guidelines describe the network of audio-visual communication systems and computer systems needed to link an expert stroke team with a remote patient, aiming to rapidly diagnose and treat i...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateApr 19, 2017

New strategy identifies potential drugs and targets for brain repair

Researchers have discovered small molecule drugs that activate signaling pathways leading to specific adult brain cell types from stem cells. These findings provide new insights into neural development and repair, identifying several new approved drugs with potential therapeutic value for brain injury repair.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Minitablets help medicate picky cats

Researchers developed minitablets with synthetic flavourings and coatings to enhance palatability, making it easier for cats to take medication. The study found that amino acids and vitamin B-based flavours were promising options, but further research is needed.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateMar 22, 2017

How best to treat infections and tumors

A new mathematical analysis provides guidance for treating infections and tumors with drug resistance, suggesting that containment may extend effective life and improve patient outcomes in some cases. The study identifies two main factors influencing the choice between containment and aggressive treatment.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 9, 2017

New therapeutic agent proves more effective treatment for advanced prostate cancer

A German multicenter study confirms the efficacy and safety of Lu-177-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, demonstrating a positive response rate of 45% and manageable side effects. The treatment offers an additional option for end-stage patients with high response rates and low toxicity.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 5, 2017