Articles tagged with Medical Treatments
A study by Kim Thomas and colleagues found that ion-exchange water softeners do not improve eczema severity scores or symptoms, such as sleep loss and itchiness, in children with moderate to severe eczema. However, parents reported small health benefits and over 50% chose to install a water softener due to perceived improvements.
Researchers found that using non-alcohol antibacterial mouthwash containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) decreases the incidence of preterm birth. The study, funded by The Procter & Gamble Company, involved pregnant women with periodontal disease who received either treatment or a control group.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy significantly reduces mortality among patients with mildly symptomatic or advanced heart failure, improving long-term outcomes. The addition of CRT to optimal medical therapy or ICDs can be extended to a wider proportion of patients, benefiting the growing population affected by heart failure.
Researchers use vagus nerve stimulation paired with sound tones to retrain the brain and reduce ringing in the ears. After 20 days of treatment, tinnitus disappeared in noise-exposed rats, persisting for up to 3.5 months.
A Mount Sinai study found a significant increase in the rate of 'sarcoid-like' granulomatous pulmonary disease among World Trade Center (WTC) responders compared to pre-9/11 FDNY personnel. The condition was associated with environmental exposures and lung function abnormalities.
Researchers in India have found that various kitchen waste water filtration systems can produce clean water suitable for agricultural or horticultural use. Ceramic microfiltration membrane systems with physicochemical treatments such as biotreatment and adsorption showed promising results, removing up to 98% of BOD and 99% of COD.
Researchers found a communication intervention effective in reducing ICU stays for chronic patients but less so for surgical and neurological cases. The study highlights the need for tailored approaches to support families making critical decisions for their loved ones.
A randomized controlled trial shows that CPAP therapy significantly reduced self-reported fatigue scores and increased energy levels in patients with OSA. Participants who received therapeutic CPAP experienced significant improvements in fatigue and energy, while those on placebo showed no changes.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg estimates that approximately 2% of the population in West Sweden suffers from severe asthma, which is characterized by nasal congestion. The study suggests that patients with nasal complaints should be investigated for asthma, as more pronounced symptoms may be linked to severe asthma.
Scientists challenge conventional wisdom on fluoride's effectiveness in preventing tooth decay, finding the protective shield on teeth is just 6 nanometers thick, sparking questions about its ability to protect teeth.
A study found that acupuncture improved visual acuity in older children with lazy eye, comparable to patching therapy. Acupuncture was well-tolerated and showed promising results in treating anisometropic amblyopia.
A recent study by University of Pittsburgh researchers suggests that nonchemical treatment devices may not be effective in controlling bacterial growth in water-based cooling systems. The two-year study found that standard chlorine treatment controlled the organisms even after they had proliferated.
The new guidelines aim to standardize diagnosis, treatment, and management of food allergies. They consolidate the latest available data into straightforward and consistent protocols for diagnosis and treatment, which will give physicians a uniform pool of information, ultimately leading to more accurate care for patients.
Researchers found that private insurance paid for healthcare costs in the under-65 population significantly reduced disparities in per-capita Medicare healthcare spending between McAllen and El Paso. For this age group, inpatient admissions were 89% higher in McAllen than El Paso, but outpatient medical service spending was 22% lower.
A new study by the University of Utah found that the LouseBuster is highly effective in killing head lice and nits, with 94.8% mortality rate. The device uses warm air to dry out lice and nits, making it a safe and easy treatment option.
A $7 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will support a four-year research project to develop clinical guidelines for pre-eclampsia diagnosis and treatment in lower- and middle-income countries. The project aims to reduce maternal, fetal, and newborn deaths related to pre-eclampsia.
A new study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev has shown that individually tailored dietary treatment for acutely hospitalized elderly can significantly reduce mortality rates. The study found a 64% decrease in death rates among those receiving intensive nutritional treatment compared to the control group.
Researchers developed a new treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) using insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) gelatin hydrogels, with 48% of patients showing hearing improvement at 12 weeks and 56% at 24 weeks.
A team of researchers has successfully treated beta-thalassemic mice by increasing hepcidin levels, which limits iron overload and markedly reduces anemia. This approach suggests a new therapeutic strategy for patients with beta-thalassemia, potentially mitigating iron overload and anemia.
Researchers conclude that caring for prisoners' mental and physical health directly impacts public health, with a significant burden of chronic and infectious disease among incarcerated individuals. The authors recommend targeted healthcare resources in prisons to prevent disease transmission and ensure effective treatment upon release.
The FRAX tool was clarified for its use in clinical practice through international discussions, enabling its wider implementation. The tool predicts a patient's 10-year fracture risk based on scientifically validated risk factors.
Research suggests sleep apnea patients experience structural brain abnormalities in regions susceptible to hypoxemia, which may be partially or fully reversible with early detection and treatment. Cognitive challenges such as executive function impairments and daytime sleepiness are linked to specific brain areas affected by OSA.
The Canadian medical journal criticizes Canada's military for insufficient privacy safeguards, citing recent breaches and the need for clearer rules. The authors urge General Walter Natynczyk to develop recommendations for improving military privacy protocols.
Researchers have developed a simple blood test to diagnose Niemann-Pick type C disease, which can help patients begin treatment earlier. The test targets oxidized forms of cholesterol that are present in higher levels in NPC patients, distinguishing them from other conditions.
The University of Miami College of Engineering is developing a self-sustaining water system for 20 students using new technologies to reduce energy and water demands. The project aims to promote sustainable development by treating wastewater as a resource, reducing the need for centralized treatment plants.
Researchers have found that brain damage continues to develop and evolve after traumatic brain injury, offering a potential target for treatments. The study, published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine, provides new insights into progressive changes in brain structure and function after injury.
A multidisciplinary team is developing objective performance measures for assessing motor control in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. The researchers aim to investigate the underlying physiological mechanisms of osteopathic manipulative medicine and improve patient function and mobility.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers shows that providing small amounts of flexible, targeted follow-up care can help chronically depressed patients manage their symptoms. The approach includes self-monitoring tools and follow-up phone calls from a care manager, resulting in higher remission rates and reduced-function days.
A randomized trial involving 17 black-owned barbershops in Dallas County, Texas found that the enhanced barber-based intervention resulted in greater improvement in hypertension control. The control rate for patrons with hypertension increased from 33.8% to 53.7%, an increase of 19.9%.
A study by Kerri N. Boutelle found that parent-only groups are a viable method for childhood obesity treatment, achieving similar results in child weight loss and other outcomes. The approach is more cost-effective and potentially easier for families, with further research planned.
The European Union has recognized the importance of addressing rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, which affect over 100 million Europeans. The conference called for an EU Musculoskeletal Disease Strategy and national action plans to improve healthcare and treatment.
Despite the PARTNER trial's promising results, surgical aortic valve replacement should remain the standard treatment for aortic stenosis. Transcatheter aortic-valve implantation (TAVI) is only suitable for patients at high risk who have decreased life expectancy and cannot undergo surgery.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh found that evidence supports organized stroke unit care and secondary prevention with blood pressure lowering after ICH. However, more randomized controlled trials are needed to improve outcomes for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.
A meta-analysis found that carotid artery stenting was associated with increased risks of short- and long-term adverse outcomes, including stroke, death, and restenosis. In contrast, carotid endarterectomy was linked to lower rates of these complications.
Two clinical trials show that intensive lifestyle interventions with diet, physical activity, and behavioral support can result in significant weight loss and improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors. The studies found that weight loss was more pronounced in the first six months, but similar at 12 months, with reductions in waist c...
The article discusses the variations in end-of-life care in intensive care units (ICUs) and the need for clinicians to be aware of subtle institutional pressures and adapt their approach to individual patients. Key findings include differences in family involvement, communication styles, and attitudes toward withdrawing life support ac...
The Center for Injury Research and Policy at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health will conduct multi-center studies on treatment and outcomes of major orthopedic injuries. The expansion aims to establish treatment guidelines and improve outcomes for wounded warriors.
A new study led by the University of York will assess the motives behind medical tourism, including consumerism and patient decision-making. The research aims to establish the economic impact of medical tourism and its potential benefits for the NHS.
Researchers discussed novel approaches in cleft lip repair and highlighted advancements in cochlear implant technology. A new study also explored the importance of health literacy, cultural competency, and health disparities for patients with diverse backgrounds.
The study compares and contrasts various global PTSD treatment guidelines, highlighting differences that can lead to confusion. The researchers emphasize the importance of trauma-focused psychological interventions as the most effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder.
A study found that mindfulness meditation training reduced fatigue and depression in people with mild to moderate multiple sclerosis, improving overall quality of life. The positive effects continued for at least six months.
Research from Utrecht University reveals that anger and sadness amplify pain equally in both women with and without fibromyalgia. The study also found that emotional sensitization of pain may be especially detrimental in people who already have high pain levels.
A new system is being developed to provide accurate patient histories, assist in treatment, and optimize remote medical diagnosis. The integrated LTM/iRevive system will guide caregivers through the observational recording process and reduce errors, allowing for greater focus on providing care.
The UCSF Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology will investigate fundamental design principles of adaptation in cells using forward engineering and comparative genomics. The center's findings may lead to new therapeutic tools and the development of synthetic circuits that can trigger desired cellular responses.
A study found that botulinum toxin treatment reduced drooling in children with cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders by an average of 50% after two months. The treatment's effects lasted for approximately 22 weeks, with some patients experiencing continued relief up to one year.
A joint Indiana University and Columbia University study found no change in prejudice and discrimination toward people with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse problems despite increased public acceptance of neurobiological explanations. Key findings include increased support for treatment but generally unrelated stigma reduction.
A study found that fourth-year medical students who participated in an educational intervention were more likely to seek, identify, and incorporate into care patient circumstances requiring variation from standard care. The intervention improved their skills in identifying patient context and decreasing contextual errors.
A study found that depressed medical students are more likely to endorse depression stigma attitudes and experience suicidal thoughts. The authors suggest new approaches may be needed to reduce stigma and enhance prevention, detection, and treatment of mental illness in medical education.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the International Federation of Fertility Societies are concerned about the lack of uniform clinical standards between countries, putting patients' safety at risk. The societies are developing a 'Code of Practice on Cross Border Reproductive Care' to protect and reassure pat...
A £10 million donation from JK Rowling has led to the establishment of a research clinic focused on patient-based studies for multiple sclerosis. The clinic will explore treatments to slow disease progression, with potential implications for other degenerative neurological conditions.
Schizophrenia is a complex condition characterized by altered brain structure and neurotransmission, leading to symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and social withdrawal. Delayed access to treatment can result in slower recovery and increased risk of relapse, highlighting the need for early intervention.
Researchers used Six Sigma design strategy to improve ER triage process, reducing patient waiting time and length of stay. The approach sorted patients into treatment areas based on condition severity, not arrival time, resulting in significant reductions in wait times and stays.
A study found that long-term cumulative mortality was highest among patients with system delays of 121-180 minutes, increasing by 28.1% and 30.8% respectively. System delay was independently associated with mortality in multivariate analysis.
A recent study found that narrowband UV-B treatment can increase serum levels of vitamin D in patients with psoriasis while clearing the condition. The study also showed significant improvements in psoriasis severity scores and dermatology-related quality of life.
A University of Gothenburg study reveals that involuntary childlessness has a significant negative impact on quality-of-life and wellbeing for both men and women who have undergone failed IVF treatment. Men often feel frustrated by unknown causes of infertility, while women experience bereavement-like emotions.
The latest research on schizophrenia focuses on prenatal factors, neurological development, prognosis, brain abnormalities, social cognition, and promising treatments.
The University of Leicester has developed an online diabetes risk assessment tool using 7 questions to identify those at high risk. The tool is being used in a number of studies to encourage people to see their doctor and has already been taken by over 21,000 individuals.
Vertebroplasty is effective in providing greater pain relief than conservative treatment, resulting in a significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores. Patients experienced immediate and sustained pain relief lasting up to one year, making it a safe option for those with acute fractures.
Novo Nordisk's decision to withdraw Mixtard 30 insulin could add £9 million to the NHS drugs bill in England, affecting 90,000 patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes. Alternative biphasic insulins are more expensive and may cause disruption to patient care.
A study of 156 foster care children found that those participating in a mentoring and skill-building program had fewer mental health problems six months after the intervention. The treatment group also reported better quality of life and lower symptoms of dissociation.