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Artificial womb raises hope for premature babies

Researchers have successfully used an artificial womb to incubate healthy baby lambs for a week, paving the way for potential treatment of extremely premature infants. The technology, known as ex-vivo uterine environment (EVE) therapy, aims to improve lung development and reduce ventilation-derived injury.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 17, 2017

High sugar consumption gives rise to dental treatment costs in the billions

A study by Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg and BRAIN AG found a clear correlation between sugar consumption and dental illness, resulting in significant costs. The researchers estimated that implementing the World Health Organization's 50g sugar per person per day target could save Germany up to 12 billion euros annually.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 14, 2017

Lifestyle-modification programs for weight management in Arab states lack in effectiveness

A systematic review found that lifestyle-modification programs have no significant impact on body weight in Arab countries, highlighting the need for adapted treatment programs. The studies cited methodological flaws, including linguistic and socioeconomic context neglect, and sociocultural obstacles to female participation.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Diabetes Reviews·DateAug 7, 2017

Automated measure of nighttime oxygen levels could speed diagnosis of sleep apnea

A new automated system for measuring nighttime oxygen levels could help diagnose sleep apnea in children who snore. The approach was most accurate for children with severe apnea and detected 90% of those with severe disease. The test is simple, inexpensive, and can be performed at home using a pulse oximeter.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 7, 2017

Stroke survivors without early complications at long-term risk of death, stroke

A new study published in CMAJ found that people who survive a stroke or mini-stroke without early complications have an increased risk of death and stroke for at least 5 years following the initial event. Researchers recommend long-term management of modifiable risks, such as high blood pressure and physical activity, to reduce this risk.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 24, 2017

Many pet owners unable to spot an out of hours vet emergency

A study found that 67% of pet owners surveyed couldn't accurately recognize veterinary emergencies, with many calling out-of-hours services for convenience or reassurance. Veterinary practices can help by providing guidance on emergency conditions and training receptionists in telephone triage.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateJul 19, 2017

Family-based treatments may help address obesity in children

A family-based treatment approach for childhood obesity was found to be effective in reducing body mass index standard deviation scores. Young age and high BMI-SDS at baseline, as well as good motivation for treatment and adherence to the protocol, were key factors associated with successful weight loss.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateJul 7, 2017

Keeping the beat

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has renewed funding for the University of Pittsburgh's Cardiovascular Bioengineering Training Program, which educates students in cardiovascular research and prepares them for careers in basic and translational cardiovascular research. The program focuses on three areas: understanding native and ...

Skin plays significant role in spread of leishmaniasis

Researchers at the University of York have found that parasites responsible for leishmaniasis are mainly acquired from the skin rather than through blood transfusions. This discovery challenges current treatment methods and highlights the importance of measuring parasite levels in the skin to assess treatment success.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 2017

Older adults under-referred for mental health therapies

A large research study reveals that older people are not being referred for mental health support nearly as frequently as their younger counterparts. Despite this, studies have shown that older people may benefit the most from 'talk therapies', with over three-quarters of people around the age of 64 experiencing significant clinical im...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateJun 5, 2017

Must children attend obesity treatment with parents to be effective?

A randomized clinical trial found that parent-based weight loss treatment (PBT) with or without child attendance resulted in similar weight loss outcomes, including decreased BMI z scores and improved calorie intake and physical activity. The study suggests that child attendance at treatment is not necessary to achieve similar outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 30, 2017

Study finds worsening outcomes in service members 5 years after mild blast-induced concussion

A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that US military service members who experienced a mild concussion after blast injury may continue to experience mental health symptoms and decreased quality of life for at least five years. The study also highlights the need for more effective, long-term treatment strategies.

Low oxygen reverses mitochondrial disease in mice

Researchers found that breathing low-oxygen air reversed brain damage caused by mitochondrial defects in mice. The study suggests that hypoxia therapy may be a potential treatment for mitochondrial diseases, including Leigh syndrome. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop a practical regimen.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2017

Interactive website helps to reduce dizziness

A new interactive website, Balance Retraining, has been developed to help people with dizziness carry out vestibular rehabilitation exercises via the web. The site provides personalized feedback and advice, and has shown promising results in reducing dizziness symptoms amongst adults aged 50 and above.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 8, 2017