Fire ant attacks have been reported in US healthcare facilities and homes, resulting in severe medical complications, including death. The medical complications of fire ant stings can range from mild irritation to death from a generalized allergic reaction, depending on the number of stings and the physical condition of the victim.
A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that lean cuts of red meat can be part of a heart-healthy diet. Researchers found that subjects who consumed 80% lean red meats had nearly identical changes in cholesterol levels compared to those who ate lean white meats.
The Merck Manual has been extensively revised to reflect ever-increasing medical knowledge, with new additions on topics like drug therapy for the elderly and chronic fatigue syndrome. The Centennial Edition is now nearly 3,000 pages, divided into 23 thumb-indexed sections, making it a vital necessity for today's clinicians.
The six-month study demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, establishing a foundation for FDA approval of ENBREL. The results support the use of etanercept as an additional treatment option for these patients.
A study of 1,208 young physicians found that women doctors married to other doctors worked fewer hours, earned less money, and took on more family responsibilities. In contrast, men MD2s also experienced benefits, including higher family incomes and successful spouses' careers.
The UT Southwestern Medical Center has received a five-year grant to train graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in molecular microbiology. The program will focus on the molecular basis of bacterial pathogenesis and interactions with host cells, among other topics.
A Canadian survey analysis suggests that language barriers are a significant factor in reduced healthcare access for non-native English speakers. Researchers urge improving communication with such patients to increase participation in preventive health programs, but caution that some solutions may be too costly or ineffective.