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Quality of life and treatment of late-stage chronic kidney disease

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that renal transplantation offers the best treatment option for improving quality of life in people with late-stage chronic kidney disease. In contrast, home-based automated peritoneal dialysis provides a better quality of life than continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 11, 2012

Guam conservation efforts progress

The US Department of the Navy has initiated a project to conserve the fadang tree species in Guam, with over 90% of trees killed by invasive insects. The partnership between the Navy and University of Guam aims to develop strategies for successful cycad transplantation and conservation.

Noninvasive imaging technique may help kids with heart transplants

Cardiologists at WashU Medicine have developed a noninvasive imaging technique to detect coronary artery disease in pediatric heart transplant patients, reducing the need for invasive tests. The technique uses contrast-enhanced cardiac MRI to assess coronary arteries and has shown promising results, although further study is needed.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·DateJul 12, 2012

Exercise program improved health of lung transplant patients and cut cardiovascular risk

A three-month exercise program significantly improved lung transplant patients' health-related quality of life and reduced their risk of cardiovascular problems. The study found that patients who exercised had higher quadriceps muscle force, longer walking distances, and better physical functioning compared to those in the control group.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJun 21, 2012

Study: Why hot, humid air triggers symptoms in patients with mild asthma

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that hot, humid air triggers an increase in airway resistance in patients with mild asthma, leading to coughing and airway constriction. Inhaling an asthma drug before exposure to hot, humid air prevented this reaction.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Stem cells can repair a damaged cornea

Researchers have made a breakthrough in cultivating stem cells on human corneas, a potential game-changer for patients awaiting corneal transplants. The successful cultivation of stem cells on human corneas could eventually eliminate the shortage of donated corneas, allowing for more people to receive life-changing transplants.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalActa Ophthalmologica·DateMar 5, 2012

U-M News: Kidney failure risk higher for liver transplant patients following policy change

Research from Michigan Medicine shows a 15% increase in post-liver transplant kidney failure among recipients since the implementation of Model of End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) allocation. Modifiable risk factors identified include African American race, hepatitis C, and pre-transplant diabetes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJan 17, 2012

Successful pregnancy possible after kidney transplant

A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation reveals that women who undergo a kidney transplant can successfully carry a pregnancy with a live birth rate of 73.5%. However, pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and preterm delivery are common, especially among those pregnant within two years of the transplant.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateOct 20, 2011

Anti-reflux surgery helps airway function both before and after lung transplant

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that anti-reflux surgery can preserve lung function in patients with end-stage pulmonary disease both before and after transplantation. The procedure was associated with improved lung function, reduced episodes of acute rejection and pneumonia, and may help extend t...

Delayed access to tertiary care associated with higher death rate from type of pulmonary fibrosis

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) face a higher risk of death when accessing tertiary care centers, according to recent research. Early detection and referral methods can shorten the time from symptoms onset to referral, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 1, 2011

Aboriginal children less likely to receive kidney transplants

A Canadian study found Aboriginal children with kidney failure were less likely to receive a kidney transplant compared to white children. The study revealed that Aboriginal children had more immune-mediated kidney diseases and shorter waiting times on dialysis before transplantation, leading to lower rates of successful transplants.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 24, 2011

New patient guidelines for heart devices

Cardiac specialists will use new guidelines to determine who should receive a mechanical heart-pumping device. The guidelines have the potential to change clinical practice patterns for patients with severe heart failure. Dr. Morgan's presentation at the ISHLT annual meeting in San Diego highlights the importance of these changes.