Author Interviews, Pediatrics / 17.06.2024

mom-child-playNavigating the world of sensory play can be both fun and educational for parents and children. Engaging children in simple tactile exercises not only supports their sensory experiences but also aids in their overall development. From the squishy delight of homemade slime to the soothing textures of sand art, these activities offer meaningful ways to develop the tactile system. Incorporating activities like these into your daily routine can be especially beneficial for children requiring additional sensory input. Occupational therapy fine motor activities, such as kneading playdough or molding clay, can significantly improve their fine motor skills while providing a therapeutic, sensory-rich experience. It's important to note that such activities are not only entertaining but also essential for strengthening fine motor control and sensory integration. By exploring various tactile exercises, parents can provide their children with valuable sensory experiences that foster growth and learning. Activities like filling a sandbox or creating DIY slime can be both enjoyable and foundational for their cognitive and physical development. These tactile activities can serve as excellent tools in a child's growth journey, combining playfulness with educational value. Please keep in mind that this is only an informative article and not medical advice; if you need further help, contact a medical expert.

Key Takeaways

  • Tactile exercises enhance sensory experience and overall development.
  • Occupational therapy fine motor activities improve fine motor skills and sensory integration.
  • Simple activities like sand art and DIY slime offer fun, beneficial playtime.
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Aging, Geriatrics, Nursing / 15.06.2024

  Nursing homes are supposed to be safe places where elderly people receive the care they need. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case. Nursing home abuse is a serious issue that affects many seniors. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, about 10% of elderly people experience some form of abuse in nursing homes. If you suspect abuse, take action quickly and seek help from nursing home abuse attorneys to ensure your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve. No one should have to suffer in silence, and with the right support, you can ensure that your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve. Read on for a few of the most common nursing home abuses you should know about.  

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is one of the most common forms of nursing home abuse. It involves any act that causes physical harm to a resident. Signs of physical abuse may include unexplained bruises, cuts, broken bones, or other injuries. Examples of Physical Abuse:
  • Hitting or slapping a resident
  • Shoving or pushing
  • Restraining a resident with straps or ties
  • Not providing necessary medical care
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Author Interviews, Technology, Telemedicine / 14.06.2024

Enhancing Patient Engagement Through Strategic Digital Integration

Leveraging SEO for Improved Patient Information Accessibility

The strategic use of digital platforms in healthcare, particularly through search engine optimization (SEO), significantly enhances how medical practices engage with patients. SEO is crucial in making educational content easily discoverable online, thereby ensuring that when patients seek information about their conditions or potential treatments, the resources provided by advanced platforms like CheckedUp are readily available.

Pre-Visit Patient Education via Optimized Content

Digital platforms not only facilitate direct patient education but also play a pivotal role in how this content is structured and presented online. By optimizing content for search engines, practices can ensure higher visibility and accessibility, allowing patients to obtain necessary medical knowledge before their consultations. This approach not only improves the efficiency of in-person visits but also empowers patients, making them proactive participants in their healthcare journey. (more…)
Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Heart Disease, Nature / 14.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ben Omega Petrazzini, B.Sc. Associate Bioinformatician Ron Do Laboratory Ron Do, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences Director, Center for Genomic Data Analytics Associate Director in Academic Affairs, The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine Charles Bronfman Professor in Personalized Medicine Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai     MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Rare coding variants directly affect protein function and can inform the role of a gene in disease. Discovery of rare coding variant associations for coronary artery disease (CAD) to date have only had limited success. Genetic studies typically use standard phenotyping approaches to classify cases versus controls for CAD. However, this phenotyping approach doesn’t capture disease progression or severity in individuals. We recently introduced an in-silico score for CAD (ISCAD) that tracks CAD progression, severity, underdiagnosis and mortality (Forrest et al. The Lancet, 2023, PMID 36563696). ISCAD was built using a machine learning model trained on clinical data from electronic health records (EHR). Importantly, ISCAD is a quantitative score that measures CAD on a spectrum. The quantitative nature of the score provides an opportunity to discover additional rare coding variant associations that may not have been detected with the standard case-control phenotyping approach. Here in this study, we performed a large-scale rare variant association study in the exome sequences of 604,915 individuals for ISCAD, a machine learning-based score for CAD. (more…)
Author Interviews, Occupational Health / 14.06.2024

If you’re a physician facing a disability, the very nature of your profession may complicate your situation more than most people. Your ability to perform your duties relies heavily on your mental and physical health. When that’s compromised, the challenges can be overwhelming. For many in your position, navigating physicians’ disability claims becomes an essential yet daunting task in this stressful time. Being informed of the complexities of these claims can make all the difference in securing the support you need.

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Author Interviews, Critical Care - Intensive Care - ICUs, Heart Disease, Kidney Disease, NEJM / 13.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof Giovanni Landoni, MD Associate Professor Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele Milan, Italy MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects approximately 10-15% of hospitalized patients, and up to 50% of intensive care unit (ICU) patients. In cardiac surgery one patient out of three will face AKI during the postoperative period, and this will lead to higher morbidity and mortality. AKI is associated with an elevated risk of chronic kidney disease, as well as, in the most severe cases, with the use of renal replacement therapy, which may double hospitalization costs, reduce quality of life, and increase long-term mortality. So far, no preventive measure with level I of evidence did exist for AKI. The PROTECTION trial is a multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, conducted at 22 centers in 3 different countries. We recruited 3,511 adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass to receive an intravenous infusion of amino acids (AA) (Isopuramin 10%, Baxter), at 2g/kg/day up to a maximum 100g/day, or an equivalent dose of placebo (Ringer’s solution), for a maximum of 72 hours. The primary outcome was the incidence of any stage of AKI, according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2012 creatinine criteria. (more…)
Emergency Care / 12.06.2024

Ambulance teams face high-pressure situations daily, where efficiency can make the difference between life and death. Having the right medical equipment is essential, and this includes not only the ambulance stretcher itself but also its accessories. Essential stretcher accessories ensure first responders can transport patients swiftly and safely while offering care en route to the hospital. An ambulance stretcher equipped with the necessary accessories gives comfort and stability to the patient, allows for the monitoring and treatment of patients, and assists healthcare providers in delivering emergency medical services with the precision and urgency required. Given the unpredictable nature of emergency calls, stretcher accessories must be versatile and reliable. From oxygen tank holders for respiratory support to secure ZOLL X series mount systems for defibrillators, every additional feature needs to serve a critical function. In first responder operations, these accessories not only support patient transport but can also be integral in life-saving interventions. A stretcher with a robust set of medical equipment can dramatically improve the quality of pre-hospital care.

Key Takeaways

  • Essential stretcher accessories aid in safe patient transport and care.
  • The right tools allow rapid response to a spectrum of medical emergencies.
  • Regular maintenance of stretcher accessories is key for operational readiness.
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Author Interviews, Dermatology, JAMA, Salt-Sodium / 12.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Katrina Abuabara, MD, MA, MSCE Associate Professor of Dermatology, UCSF Associate Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology UC Berkeley School of Public Health MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) has become increasingly common over recent decades, especially in industrialized countries, suggesting that environmental or lifestyle factors like diet could impact rates of disease. It is well established that sodium, consumed primarily in the form of salt, increases the risk of hypertension and heart disease through pro-inflammatory mechanisms. The role of sodium on other chronic inflammatory conditions like eczema has been less well-studied. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 12.06.2024

Maintaining sound eye health requires knowledge of common eye disorders. Hyperopia (farsightedness) and myopia (nearsightedness) affect our ability to see close things. Another common problem is astigmatism, which results in blurry vision because of unevenly shaped corneas. The age-related disorder, presbyopia, affects one's capacity to focus on near objects. Older persons frequently get cataracts, which cloud the eye's lens, while glaucoma causes elevated eye pressure that may cause vision loss. For early identification and treatment, as well as to maintain overall eye health and vision, routine eye exams are crucial. Regular Eye Check-Ups Regular eye check-ups are among the most critical steps in maintaining optimal vision. These visits help detect potential eye problems early and ensure your eyes are healthy. Consulting with eye doctors in Newtown, PA, can provide personalized care and recommendations for your vision needs. Eye check-ups often include tests measuring visual acuity, depth perception, eye alignment, and movement. These tests are designed to detect abnormalities early, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Catching these conditions in their initial stages can be crucial for effective treatment and preventing long-term damage. For instance, detecting glaucoma early can allow for treatments that reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 11.06.2024

Personalizing Mental Health InterventionsMental health is a deeply personal journey, and finding the right treatment strategy can significantly affect one's quality of life. With a range of mental health conditions affecting millions globally, it's crucial to understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. This article explores how to personalize mental health interventions, ensuring that individuals can choose the most effective strategies for their unique situations. Understanding Mental Health Conditions and Their Complexities Mental health issues range from common disorders like anxiety and depression to more complex conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Each condition affects individuals differently, making personalized treatment not just beneficial but necessary. The effectiveness of any mental health treatment largely depends on its alignment with the specific symptoms and circumstances of the individual. Therefore, understanding the nuances of one's mental health condition is the first step toward effective treatment. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Aging, Technology / 11.06.2024

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, making the availability of fall detection in medical alert systems essential. Having a medical alert system with fall detection can provide peace of mind, knowing that help will be on the way even if you can't push a button. This feature can be particularly critical in emergencies where immediate assistance can significantly affect outcomes. This article takes you through the reasons why having a fall detection system is an essential add-on to your medical alert system.

fall-protection-deviceFall Detection Technology

Fall detection technology relies on advanced sensors and algorithms to ensure timely assistance when a fall occurs. This technology is built into various wearable devices, offering accuracy and reliability in monitoring movements and detecting falls.

How Fall Detection Works

Fall detection systems typically use accelerometers and gyroscopes embedded within the device to monitor movement patterns. When a fall is detected, the device triggers an alert, contacting emergency services or a designated caregiver automatically. These systems measure changes in speed and orientation to identify sudden impacts. They provide a vital safety net for individuals who might not be able to manually signal for help following a fall. (more…)
Weight Research / 10.06.2024

Key Takeaways
  • Personalized weight management is crucial in achieving sustainable results.
  • Combined data from multiple sources enhances personalization.
  • Maintaining a relationship between providers and consumers boosts success rates.
The Need for Personalization in Weight Management Personalized weight management plans are essential in today's health-focused world, and research consistently shows their effectiveness over generic approaches. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), customized weight management strategies lead to tremendous long-term success in weight loss. Additionally, platforms like BuildMyBod offer providers a turnkey solution to offer diverse services that cater to personal health needs, showing how personalization is becoming a cornerstone in weight management. (more…)
Aging, Author Interviews, Exercise - Fitness, JAMA, USPSTF / 10.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Li Li, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H Walter M. Seward Professor Chair of Family Medicine Director of population health University of Virginia School of Medicine Editor-in-chief of The BMJ Family Medicine Dr. Li joined the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in January 2021 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings of the underlying studies? Response: Falls are the leading cause of injuries in older adults and can lead to serious disability and even death. To help prevent these incidents, the Task Force looked at the current evidence on ways that primary care clinicians can help prevent falls in adults aged 65 and older who live at home and are more likely to fall. We concluded that healthcare professionals should recommend exercise interventions for adults aged 65 and older who are at increased risk for falls. This could include gait, balance, and functional training, as well as strength, resistance, and flexibility training. Clinicians can also talk with their older patients who are most likely to fall about whether additional interventions might be helpful to reduce their risk of falling. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Health Care Workers / 10.06.2024

The US healthcare staffing market is massive, although you wouldn't think it with the constant barrage of news reports telling us that we've got no staff and staffing shortages are increasing. Still, perhaps they're spending all the money attempting to boost staffing levels. And it isn't about the money - it's that people aren't as motivated to work in healthcare anymore. Below, we'll explore why the spending is so big.

The Rise in Demand for Healthcare Professionals

US Healthcare Staffing MarketThe booming healthcare staffing market is driven by an increasing demand for medical practitioners. The US is grappling with a shortage of healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals - over 340,000 combined professionals are needed, including doctors and nurses. The issue is, that as more baby boomers retire, they often become more reliant on medical services, putting pressure on an already understaffed industry. But the issue also is that the demand for healthcare staff isn't being met. The US and the UK both use overseas staff to fill the numbers. The people training to be nurses in the US are becoming travel nurses, aesthetic practitioners, and basically avoiding the main healthcare system. Well, not all of them, but a big chunk are. The US has no choice but to rely on outsourced agencies like physician staffing companies. (more…)
Health Care Workers, Mental Health Research / 10.06.2024

Social work demands emotional resilience and dedication, since it often involves dealing with complex and challenging situations, ranging from supporting individuals in crisis to navigating the intricacies of social systems and policies. This constant exposure to stress can take a toll on a social worker. Therefore, this guide covers various practical strategies for stress management to help social workers continue to perform their vital roles while safeguarding their well-being.

Stress in Social Work and Its Impact

how-to-handle-stress pic Engin_AkyurtStress in the workplace is the body's response to the demands and pressures encountered in professional situations. It can manifest as acute stress, which is short-term and often related to specific events, or chronic stress, which persists over a long period due to ongoing challenges.  Common sources of stress for social workers may include high caseloads, administrative burdens, exposure to traumatic situations, and the emotional demands of supporting clients. Signs of stress can vary. You may have physical indicators like fatigue, headaches, and muscle tension. On the other hand, you may also have emotional and psychological signs like anxiety, irritability, and feelings of helplessness. (more…)
Ophthalmology, Surgical Research / 08.06.2024

Key Takeaways:
  • LASIK is a joint surgery that corrects vision. LASIK offers several advantages, including faster recovery and better vision.
  • Recent advancements in LASIK technology have made the procedure safer and more effective.
  • Understanding the risks and benefits of LASIK is essential for anyone considering the surgery.
An Introduction to LASIK Surgery eye-lasixAnother name for LASIK is Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, a popular vision correction surgery that has helped millions achieve more precise vision. It involves using advanced laser technology to modify the cornea to let light reach the eye and be correctly focused onto the retina. This reshaping process significantly improves vision for those with refractive defects, including astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. If you've been considering options like LASIK in Utah, you're part of a growing group of individuals seeking a life-changing solution to their vision problems. Initially introduced in the 1980s, LASIK surgery has undergone numerous technological improvements, making it a safer and more reliable option for vision correction. It has improved the quality of life for millions and reduced the dependency on corrective eyewear, making daily activities more convenient. (more…)
ASCO, Author Interviews, Technology / 08.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Frederick Howard MD Assistant Professor of Medicine Section of Hematology / Oncology University of Chicago MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: With the advent of AI language models like ChatGPT, these tools may be used to generate scientific literature or abstracts. Indeed, a survey conducted by Nature in 2023 found that nearly 30% of scientists were using AI tools to aid in the writing of scientific manuscripts. The use of AI in scientific literature can be difficult to identify, and previous studies suggest that human reviewers cannot distinguish between AI generated and human written scientific abstracts. Commercial tools designed to identify AI content may have a higher degree of accuracy, but the optimal approach to applying such tools to detect AI content within scientific literature is uncertain. (more…)
Addiction, PT-Rehabilitation / 07.06.2024

Rehab is an important part of recovery for many people and a major part of how you can overcome addiction comfortably. However, with so many different rehab centers to choose from, it can actually be quite stressful trying to pick out the right one for your situation and needs. With so many different rehab centers to consider, as well as specific kinds of rehab that they may or may not offer, it can be difficult to work out which one might be best for you. What should you look for when hunting down a potential rehabilitation center?

Cost and Budgeting

Naturally, the first thing you will want to take into consideration when deciding which rehab center to go to is the price. You will have to take a careful look at your budget and try to work out whether you can afford a rehab center based on its cost - there is no point pursuing a rehab center that you outright can't afford, after all. In addition, it is worth taking into account how long you might be spending at the rehabilitation center, and if the price is being paid in lump sums or monthly payments. While a high up-front cost might not seem ideal, you will often find that rehab is more affordable this way if it is being offered, but this depends entirely on your situation. (more…)
COVID -19 Coronavirus, Vaccine Studies / 07.06.2024

COVID-19 is a virus that devastated the healthcare systems around the globe. The main reason for this devastation was the speed of the spreading. Because it was spreading so fast, hospitals weren’t able to accommodate so many patients. We needed to figure out a better approach to dealing with the pandemic. So, this is where most of the people on Earth stood together by being apart. We were in lockdown, but our scientists and governments collaborated more on finding the right solution.

What Was the COVID-19 Impact on Research Priorities?

One of the major impacts of the pandemic was the speed of research. Because of the urgency and the need for a quick response, research was focused on the COVID-19 virus and therapy and vaccine development for it. The development of vaccines was heavily prioritized, but this does not imply that it is not being done presently. Epidemiology and therapeutic regimens continue to see some initiatives. However, research remains a priority with ongoing trials on many things you can participate in (link to site). This required a lot of funding and resources, so governments, private sectors, and international organizations collaborated and helped out the research process. We’ve proven that we can adapt in no time, and respond to great threats effectively and swiftly. (more…)
Author Interviews, Biomarkers, Cancer Research, Colon Cancer / 06.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Jorge Moscat, PhD Maria T. Diaz-Meco, PhD Jorge Moscat Maria T. Diaz-Meco, Principal Investigators Moscat & Diaz-Meco Laboratories Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Weill Cornell Medicine New York, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you describe the two different histological premalignant states? Response: Although much effort is devoted to understanding the biology and pathology of established malignant tumors and the formation of metastasis in order to identify new and more efficacious treatment approaches, much less is understood of how tumors initiate from normal cells. This is extremely important because treating incipient benign neoplasia should be easier and less toxic than treated already aggressive and disseminated cancer cells. In the case of colorectal cancer (CRC), routinary colonoscopies might identify still benign lesions that can be either “serrated” or “conventional” but that all present with reduced levels of two proteins called the aPKCs. As the tumor evolves, if the aPKCs are not upregulated, then the cancer becomes very aggressive and with very limited therapeutic options. Our work identifies precisely the initial mechanisms that determine if a benign adenoma would progress towards an aggressive phenotype. A full comprehension of these initial steps will lead to effective preventive therapies to stop cancer before it starts. (more…)
Food Poisoning, Infections, Nutrition / 06.06.2024

stomach-pain-pixbyFoodborne illness, or food poisoning as many call it, is a widespread and potentially life-threatening health issue. Therefore, understanding the causes and prevention of foodborne illness is crucial for everyone, from home cooks to professional chefs, food industry workers, and consumers. This article explores the causes of foodborne illness, identifies high-risk foods, and provides essential strategies for preventing this health issue.

Common Causes of Foodborne Illness

Symptoms of foodborne illness can show up quickly, sometimes within hours after you eat or drink a contaminated meal, or they might take a few days to appear. The following is an in-depth look at the common causes: (more…)
Exercise - Fitness / 06.06.2024

  flat-stomach-abdomenHave you ever wondered why achieving a flat stomach seems so elusive? Many people struggle with this goal, often feeling frustrated by the lack of results despite their best efforts. Understanding that a flat stomach is not just about aesthetics but also about health can make the journey more meaningful. In this guide, we'll walk you through practical, achievable steps to help you get the flat stomach you desire.   Understanding the Anatomy and Factors The Anatomy of the Stomach To work towards a flat stomach, it's important to understand the muscles involved. The main muscles to focus on are:
  • Rectus Abdominis: Often referred to as the "six-pack" muscles, these run vertically along the front of the abdomen.
  • Transverse Abdominis: Located underneath the rectus abdominis, these muscles help stabilize the core.
  • Obliques: Located on the sides of the abdomen, these muscles are crucial for twisting and side-bending movements.
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Allergies, Exercise - Fitness / 06.06.2024

Understanding the Impact of Allergies on WorkoutsImagine gearing up for a workout, only to be hit with a sudden wave of sneezing or a stuffy nose. It's frustrating and can easily derail your fitness plans. Allergies can make even the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts want to give up. This scenario is all too common, especially during allergy season when pollen counts are high, and allergens are everywhere. The impact of allergies on workouts can be discouraging, but it doesn’t have to stop you from achieving your fitness goals. If this sounds like your experience, you’re not alone. Many people find their exercise routines interrupted by allergies. This article offers practical tips to help you stay motivated and manage your allergies during workouts. 1. Understanding the Impact of Allergies on Workouts Allergies can have a big impact on your physical performance. Symptoms like sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and fatigue can make it challenging to stick to your exercise routine. These symptoms can lower your stamina, make breathing harder, and reduce your overall workout intensity. Managing allergies effectively is key to maintaining a consistent fitness regimen and achieving your health goals. (more…)
Nursing / 05.06.2024

Nursing is a demanding yet incredibly rewarding profession that requires a unique blend of skills and qualities. Successful nurses must possess more than just medical knowledge; they must embody characteristics that enable them to provide exceptional care, navigate complex situations, and foster strong relationships with patients and colleagues. Understanding these essential qualities can help aspiring nurses and those currently in the field strive for excellence. This article will explore the key attributes that define a successful nurse, highlighting the traits that contribute to their ability to deliver high-quality healthcare and compassionate support.

1.    Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is a crucial quality for a successful nurse. Nurses must be able to convey information clearly and accurately to patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. This involves both verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as the ability to adapt messages for different audiences. Clear communication is essential for ensuring that patients understand their diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication instructions. Miscommunication can lead to confusion, non-compliance, and even medical errors, so it is vital for nurses to articulate information in a way that is easy to comprehend. This might include using layman’s terms, providing written instructions, or demonstrating procedures. In addition to patient communication, nurses must collaborate effectively with other healthcare team members. This requires active listening, assertiveness, and the ability to provide and receive constructive feedback. Strong communication skills also involve being able to navigate difficult conversations, such as discussing prognosis or delivering bad news, with sensitivity and professionalism.
"Strong communication is a key trait in nursing, where clear information exchange can impact patient outcomes. Applying effective negotiating tactics like active listening and tailored messaging can greatly enhance a nurse’s ability to communicate complex information compassionately and accurately." - the founder of Shapiro Negotiations Institute shares.
 
For nurses looking to enhance their communication skills, pursuing advanced education can be beneficial. An online MSN nursing degree, for example, can provide specialized training in communication strategies and leadership, further preparing nurses for the complexities of the healthcare environment. (more…)
ASCO, Author Interviews, Breast Cancer, Genetic Research / 05.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Rima Patel, MD Assistant Professor, Division of Hematology/Oncology The Tisch Cancer Institute Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The 21-gene Oncotype DX Recurrence Score (RS) and 70-gene MammaPrint (MP) assays provide prognostic information for distant recurrence and are used to guide chemotherapy use in hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer (EBC). Previous reports have demonstrated racial differences in the prognostic accuracy of the RS. In both the TAILORx and RxPONDER trials, Black women with low genomic risk (RS 0-25) had a higher recurrence risk than White women. In another study using the NCDB database, Black race was associated with worse overall survival in multivariate models including RS. The impacts of race/ethnicity on the MammaPrint assay are unknown. (more…)
ASCO, Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Race/Ethnic Diversity / 05.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Nina Bickell, MD, MPH Associate Director of Community Engaged and Equity Research Co-Leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Program Co-Director of the Center for Health Equity and Community Engaged Research The Tisch Cancer Institute Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Recruiting diverse patients to clinical trials is essential to advance cancer treatments, yet accrual remains low. Efficient recruitment requires the ability identify patients at treatment decision points and determine eligibility for open clinical trials – a time and personnel intensive undertaking. We developed an automated Regular Expressions technology to identify, classify and match patients to clinical trials and overcome the limitations of more resource-intensive technologies like Natural Language Processing (NLP). We created a screener, parser and matcher to: use the electronic health record to identify patients at treatment decision points based on progress notes and imaging reports and classify their cancer type, stage and receptor status; extract and categorize breast, liver and lung cancer trial data based on cancer type, stage, and receptor status from the National Cancer Institute's ClinicalTrials.gov database; pair eligible patients with relevant trials based on stage and receptor status. (more…)
Author Interviews, Colon Cancer, Gastrointestinal Disease, Immunotherapy / 04.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Steven H. Itzkowitz, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF Professor of Medicine and Oncological Sciences Director of the GI Fellowship Program Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: This study looked at patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who had a history of cancer in the past 5 years and asked whether the medications they received for their IBD might have affected their rates of getting future cancer (new or recurrent cancers). Because many of the medicines that are used to treat IBD can affect the immune system in various ways, there has been concern that the medicines might predispose to subsequent cancers. We found that patients who received immunosuppressive medications had a numerically increased risk of subsequent cancer, this was not statistically higher than those who had not been exposed to these medications. While previous studies have looked at this question retrospectively, this is the first report that analyzed this issue prospectively using individuals from the United States.  Moreover, this study represents a multi-institutional collaboration among gastroenterologists at most of the major NYC healthcare systems. (more…)
Alcohol, Author Interviews, CMAJ / 03.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Rahel Zewude, MD FRCPC Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, PGY-5 University of Toronto MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you describe the syndrome of Auto-brewery syndrome? Response: Auto-brewery syndrome refers to a syndrome where the gut ferments alcohol from carbohydrates leading to high blood alcohol levels and intoxication without any consumption of alcoholic drinks. (more…)
Health Care Systems / 03.06.2024

revenue-technologyEffective RCM is particularly important in today’s changing healthcare environment, where reimbursement is a critical issue for hospital finances. Development in RCM staffing is vital in addressing the needs that modern health organizations face. This blog post will outline the following most recent trends and methods associated with RCM staffing and why these approaches can be used to improve the performances of healthcare institutions.

The Crucial Role of Revenue Cycle Management Staffing

All revenue cycle management staffing can be seen as important in the operation of healthcare facilities. RCM stands for the functions that are responsible for the management of patients’ administrative and clinical billing and the patients’ revenue collection. It is possible to note that this area must be manned efficiently to prevent mistakes, delays, and losses to the revenue of the healthcare facilities. (more…)