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What makes a successful pregnancy?

A study published in Advances in Neuroimmune Biology explores how maternal immunological tolerance of the fetus affects pregnancy outcomes. Researchers have discovered that cytokine expression at the fetal-maternal interface plays a significant role in determining oocyte competence and implantation rates.

SourceIOS Press·JournalAdvances in Neuroimmune Biology·DateMar 21, 2012

Study examines stent implantation compared to initial medical therapy for stable coronary disease

A meta-analysis of eight clinical trials suggests that initial stent implantation for patients with stable coronary artery disease is not associated with improved outcomes compared to initial medical therapy. The study found no significant reduction in mortality, nonfatal heart attacks, or angina after a mean follow-up of 4.3 years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2012

Ideal number of embryos to implant during assisted conception can be 1 or 2 dependent on maternal factors, but never 3 or more for women of any age

A new study published in The Lancet found that transferring one or two embryos during IVF therapy results in higher live birth rates and lower risks of adverse perinatal outcomes. However, transferring three or more embryos is associated with increased risks, especially severe preterm birth.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 11, 2012

Drug-eluting stents are preferred therapy for revascularization of chronic total occlusions

A systematic review found drug-eluting stents (DES) reduce restenosis and target revascularization in chronic total occlusions, offering a safe approach with similar adverse events as bare metal stents. DES implantation is associated with significant reductions in angiographic and clinical restenosis compared to bare metal stents.

SourceWiley·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateFeb 9, 2011

Socioeconomic status not associated with access to cochlear implants

Poor children with hearing loss have equal access to cochlear implants, but experience more complications and poor follow-up compliance compared to their higher-income peers. The study found a five-fold greater risk of complications in Medicaid-insured children, highlighting the need for improved access to these life-changing devices.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010

A dead Sirt(3) to protect preimplantation embryos

A recent study by Hiroki Kurihara's team at the University of Tokyo discovered that Sirt3 helps safeguard mouse embryos against oxidative stress induced by in vitro fertilization and culture. The findings suggest that the negative effects of Sirt3 inactivation can be mitigated by using antioxidants or low-oxygen conditions during IVF.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

Ear tubes appear safe in children with cochlear implants, UAB researchers say

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that ear tubes can be safely installed in children with cochlear implants to help clear up infections. The study showed no adverse impact on child health and hearing outcomes, allowing for proper management of ear tubes before cochlear implantation.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJun 23, 2010

Ear tubes appear safe for children with cochlear implants

A study found that ear tubes do not increase the risk of complications in children with cochlear implants. The authors suggest that ear tube management does not adversely affect outcomes in pediatric ears. The study included 78 ears from 62 children, with no cases of meningitis or removal of cochlear implants due to infection.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJun 21, 2010

Catheter ablation prior to defibrillator shock reduces risk of recurrence of life threatening rapid heartbeat in patients with stable ventricular tachycardia (VTACH study)

A randomized controlled trial shows that catheter ablation before ICD implantation reduces VT recurrence at two years, with a 40% lower risk of repeat VT or VF. Prophylactic catheter ablation may be considered for patients with stable VT and reduced left-ventricular function.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 31, 2009

PreSCD II registry

The PreSCD II registry found that patients protected by an implantable cardioverter defibrillator after a heart attack showed a non-significant lower mortality rate. In those with severely reduced heart function, mortality was reduced by 47% in patients with ICD implantation one month or more after MI.

JCI table of contents: Nov. 20, 2008

Researchers identified a potential new target for anticancer therapeutics by showing that well-oxygenated tumor cells use lactate as a fuel source, which is released by hypoxic tumor cells. Inhibiting this protein MCT1 disrupts the symbiotic relationship between tumor cell types and leads to decreased tumor growth in mice models.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 20, 2008

Electrode re-implantation helps some Parkinson's disease patients

A study of seven patients with Parkinson's disease found that re-implanting electrodes to correct placement can improve symptoms and reduce medication doses for those who had poor results after initial implantation. The procedure led to significant improvements in motor function scores and reduced levodopa medication doses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 12, 2008