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Percutaneously reducing secondary mitral regurgitation in heart failure appears futile

Researchers found that reducing secondary mitral regurgitation in heart failure patients did not improve survival or symptoms, suggesting the procedure is futile. Despite successful procedure completion, there was no significant difference in primary endpoint outcomes between intervention and medical treatment groups.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 27, 2018

The Lancet Psychiatry: Automated virtual reality-based psychological therapy may help reduce fear of heights

A randomised controlled trial found that automated virtual reality therapy can be as effective as exposure to real-life heights in reducing fear, with participants reporting a significant reduction in fear levels after treatment. The study provides proof of concept for future psychological interventions and could increase access to men...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJul 11, 2018

Combination treatment fortifies the aging immune system

A combination treatment has safely enhanced the ability of the immune system to fight infections in the elderly, reducing their incidence by a year. The treatment, which inhibits TORC1 protein complex, showed improved immune response towards seasonal influenza vaccine, paving the way for therapies targeting infectious diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 11, 2018

More post-acute care isn't always better, study finds

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that patients covered under Medicare's fee-for-service plan spent more time in nursing homes after hip fracture hospitalization, yet saw slightly worse health outcomes. In contrast, those covered under Medicare Advantage had shorter stays and similar or better health outcomes.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 26, 2018

Carbon dioxide reduces belly fat

A Northwestern University study found that carbon dioxide gas injections eliminate fat around the stomach, but modest changes were not sustained over six months. The technique is considered safe and non-invasive, offering an alternative to existing methods for fat reduction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJun 8, 2018

Putting lungs under less stress

Researchers have identified a new less-invasive treatment option for patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), using ultra-protective mechanical ventilation. This approach may mitigate further lung injury and improve outcomes without requiring extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the Intensive Care Society·DateJun 5, 2018

Study shows nail treatments do not affect readings of patients' oxygen levels, despite widespread concern

A study published in the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care suggests that nail treatments do not impact digital pulse oximetry readings. Experimental results found no significant variation in blood oxygen saturation levels, even under different physiological conditions. The findings contradict widespread concern and...