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Dual brain imaging provides insight into neural basis of patient-clinician relationship

Researchers used a novel MRI-based approach to study the interaction between patients and clinicians, finding that mirroring in facial expressions and brain activity can affect the patient-clinician bond and treatment. This study suggests that the clinical encounter has a measurable impact on the brain, emotions, and clinical outcomes.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2020

Study: Sleep apnea treatment reduces heart problems in patients with prediabetes

A new study found that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment can lower daytime resting heart rates in patients with prediabetes who have obstructive sleep apnea, reducing their risk of cardiovascular disease. Optimal CPAP treatment also lowers heart rates during the day, similar to regular exercise.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 1, 2020

Study finds older persons underrepresented in COVID-19 treatment and vaccine trials

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals that older persons are highly likely to be excluded from COVID-19 clinical trials, despite accounting for 30-40% of cases and 80% of deaths globally. The exclusion poses a risk to the effectiveness and safety of treatments for older adults.

Scientists evaluated the prospects of medical tourism in Russia

The study highlights the low awareness of foreigners about Russian medical services, lack of language-skilled staff, and limited resources as major obstacles. Experts recommend improving personnel and equipment, informing potential patients, and promoting clinics through word-of-mouth and online platforms to boost medical tourism in Ru...

SourceSechenov University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 17, 2020

Study offers real world perspective on how Black patients experience mental healthcare

A novel study explores how Black patients with mental health concerns evaluate verbal and non-verbal communication during treatment, revealing significant fear of being negatively judged based on stereotypes. The research provides suggestions for creating environments that foster person-centered care and reducing provider burnout.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 15, 2020

Seeing progress

Scientists have created a model that replicates the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease with no current treatment. By understanding how RPE cells respond to stress and changes in gene expression, researchers can now test potential therapeutics for dry AMD.

Yale trial addresses health disparities in alcohol treatment

A Yale clinical trial is using an automated bilingual computerized approach to screen for and intervene with high-risk drinking behaviors among Latino patients in emergency departments. The study aims to explore unique differences within Latino subgroups and advance understanding of addressing health disparities in alcohol use disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalContemporary Clinical Trials·DateSep 1, 2020

PAD patients with depression had worse recovery, women twice as likely to be depressed

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that PAD patients with depressive symptoms have a poorer recovery rate. Women are twice as likely to be depressed than men. The study highlights the importance of integrating mental health screening and treatment into chronic disease management for optimal outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 12, 2020

EULAR: Timely detection of axial spondyloarthritis

A large European cross-sectional study found that patients with axial spondyloarthritis experience a significant delay in diagnosis due to misdirected referrals and involvement of multiple medical professionals. The study recommends initiating measures to prevent such delays and facilitate timely referral to a rheumatologist.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 11, 2020