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Sleep apnea linked to cognitive difficulties and deficits in gray matter

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.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 12, 2010

UM dorms will go 'off the water grid'

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.

Follow-ups prove powerful tool for treating depression in primary care

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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

Large variations exist in end-of-life care in the intensive care unit; doctors must guard against subtle institutional pressures to withdraw life support

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...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 8, 2010

Leading practitioners recommend global PTSD treatment guidelines

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.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateSep 28, 2010

Study: Mental illness stigma entrenched in American culture; new strategies needed

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.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2010

International Fertility Societies call for harmonization of cross-border reproductive care standards

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...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateSep 13, 2010

Engineering shorter wait times in the ER

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.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage·DateAug 24, 2010

Injection of bone cement (vertebroplasty) is safe, effective and at an acceptable cost for patients with acute osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

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.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 9, 2010

Keeping patients 'in good hands'

A literature review confirms that hand therapy addresses key factors in hand injury recovery, including swelling control, wound management, range of motion, strengthening of the hand, and work conditioning. Finding a qualified therapist is essential for optimal outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateAug 2, 2010

Doctors don't 'get' their patients

A study found that physicians' understanding of patient health beliefs is generally poor, but significantly improves when patients are more actively involved in consultations. Healthcare providers can better tailor treatment recommendations by encouraging patients to express their beliefs and concerns.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 26, 2010

New test to predict success of IVF treatment developed at Stanford

A new test developed at Stanford University School of Medicine predicts the outcomes of a subsequent round of IVF for women who have already gone through a cycle. The test is 1,000 times more accurate than current age-based guidelines and provides personalized predictions based on clinical data from prior failed treatments.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

NIH expands national network for transforming clinical and translational research

The NIH has awarded $255 million to nine health research centers to develop ways to reduce the time it takes for clinical research to become treatments for patients. The funding will support the Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) program, which aims to transform discoveries into preventions, treatments, and cures.

Locker room talk: How male athletes portray female athletic trainers

A study by North Carolina State University found that male football players are more comfortable with treatment by male athletic trainers for gender-specific injuries, but have no preference for general psychological conditions. However, they prefer female trainers for non-gender-specific injuries like a dislocated shoulder due to pote...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Athletic Training·DateJul 13, 2010