http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/24480 Mon Feb 08 23:00:00 +0100 2010 Insidermedicine is a physician-led news organization that allows you to keep on top of the latest evidence-based medical information by watching our unique videos that are created each weekday by our team of medical experts. Our goal is to reach patients, students, doctors,and other healthcare professionals around the world to ensure that each is receiving a daily health and medical update. Our content is streamed in H.264 encoded video (suitable for iPod playback) and MP3 audio-only format. (This is the video version.) Visit us on the web at http://www.insidermedicine.com, and look for our Podcasts in the iTunes Music Store! en ℗ & © 2007 CEH Inc. http://vodcast.gmx.net/gmx/logo.gif http://vodcast.gmx.net/ http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97207 (February 8, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From London - According to a report published in the Archives of Neurology, high blood pressure may be a predictor of dementia in some older adults. For five years, researchers studied nearly 1,000 elderly people suffering from cognitive impairment, but not dementia. They found that hypertension was associated with an increased risk of developing dementia in those adults who were unable to organize thoughts and make decisions, but not in those who suffered from memory dysfunction. From California - A new report published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences outlines the hazards of third hand smoke. Residual nicotine from burning tobacco attaches to almost every surface--lasting days, weeks and even months. Lab tests revealed that when this leftover nicotine interacted with a common ambient air pollutant nitrous acid, it created a carcinogen known as tobacco specific nitrosamines (TSNA). And finally, from Nottingham - According to a report published in The Lancet, people suffering from inflammatory bowel disease face a significant increased risk of blood clots. Researchers compared over 13, 500 IBD patients with over 70,000 healthy controls. They found that non-hospitalized patients with active IBD were 16x more likely to suffer a blood clot when compared to non-hospitalized controls. Mon Feb 08 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97207 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97208 (February 8, 2010 - Insidermedicine) Taking the antidepressant paroxetine interferes with the life-saving properties of the breast cancer therapy tamoxifen, according to research published in the British Medical Journal.   Here is some information about cancer and depression:       •    An estimated 15 to 25% of cancer patients suffer from depression       •    Depression associated with cancer can usually be treated with a combination of counseling and medication       •    Depressed cancer patients should be evaluated by a professional for their risk of suicide   Researchers from Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre in Toronto and from the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) analyzed the long-term survival rates of nearly 2,500 Ontario women aged 66 and older who were treated with tamoxifen for breast cancer between the years 1993 to 2005. These women were also treated with one antidepressant of the SSRI class for some or all of the time they were taking tamoxifen.   Overall, about 30% of the women received antidepressant treatment while taking tamoxifen. After adjusting for factors that affect survival rates, including age, women who were taking paroxetine, which is also known under its tradename Paxil, while taking tamoxifen were more likely to die from breast cancer than those who had not taken this drug. The more paroxetine therapy overlapped with tamoxifen therapy, the higher the risk of dying from breast cancer. The authors estimate that using paroxetine for 41% of the duration of tamoxifen therapy would result in 1 additional death from breast cancer within five years for every 20 women treated. No association with breast cancer survival rates were found for other antidepressant.   We spoke with Dr. David Juurlink, one of the investigators of this study, who offered some further insight. Today’s research suggests that women taking tamoxifen for breast cancer should not also take paroxetine. Never stop tamoxifen or paroxetine therapy without first consulting your health care professional Mon Feb 08 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97208 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97118 (February 5, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Chicago - Doctors can reduce the risk of preterm birth by conducting ultrasound screening for a short cervix, according to a report presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM). Researchers estimated the outcomes and costs of screening cervical length in all women--not just those at high risk for preterm birth. They found that such universal screening would actually reduce costs, improve quality of life and decrease neonatal deaths. From Columbia - According to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, HPV vaccination in young women may decrease occurrence of several genital diseases. Researchers studied over 17,000 15 year old women, finding that HPV vaccination resulted in a reduction in the risk of lesions, genital warts, abnormalities on pap smears, as well as the need for procedures such as colposcopy. And finally, back to Chicago - According to another report presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine, scientists may have identified the process by which the hormone progesterone wards off preterm birth. Many preterm births occur because the fetal membranes are weakened by apoptosis and then rupture. Researchers have found, however, that progesterone can inhibit apoptosis and thereby prevent preterm birth. Fri Feb 05 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/97118 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96990 (February 4, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Chicago - According to a report presented at the Annual Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine meeting, genetics may cause some women to go into preterm labor. Researchers studied over 800 pregnant women--all of whom had a preterm birth prior to onset of the study-- and their fetuses. They found that the presence of a DNA variant in the fetus that influences inflammation doubled the risk of preterm birth, while certain variants in the mothers genes also raised this risk. From Switzerland - COPD patients are more likely to suffer depression, according to a report published in the journal Chest. Comparing over 35,000 COPD patients with over 35,000 healthy controls, researchers found that the COPD patients had 6.8% higher prevalence of depression. And finally, from Texas - According to a report published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, a mother's exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) raises her child's risk of developing asthma. Researchers gave mice BPA in their drinking water before pregnancy, during pregnancy and afterwards. They found that offspring of mice exposed to BPA demonstrated symptoms of asthma, while those who were not exposed showed no such signs. Thu Feb 04 21:30:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96990 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96901 (February 3, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From London - According to a report published in the journal Nature, a significant amount of morbidly obese people are missing genes in their DNA. Researchers studied DNA samples of over 16,000 people, both obese and of normal weight. They found that 7 in every 1000 morbidly obese people shared a genetic deletion that was not found in any of those of normal weight. This genetic deletion becomes the second most frequent genetic cause of obesity. From Calgary - According to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, elevated levels of protein in the urine and reduced kidney function may lead to heart attack, kidney failure or death. Researchers studied data on over 900,000 individuals, analyzing measurements of protein in the urine as well as eGFR (a measurement of how well the kidney filters and removes waste).  They found that all cause mortality risk was increased when patients had lower eGFR levels or higher proteinuria levels. And finally, from Michigan - Diabetics prioritize their health concerns differently than their doctors, according to a report published in Journal of General Internal Medicine. Researchers surveyed almost 1,200 diabetic patients and 92 of their doctors, finding that 38% of the doctors ranked high blood pressure as the most important health concern for the patients, while only 18% of the patients agreed. The diabetic patients instead ranked pain and depression as their most important concern. Wed Feb 03 21:15:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96901 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96826 (February 2, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - Researchers believe that low serotonin production in the brain stem may cause sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Taking samples from 36 infants who died of SIDS and comparing them with controls, researchers found that the SIDS cases had 26% lower serotonin levels in their brain stem. From Leeds - According to a report published in the journal Psychopathology, too much internet use may lead to depression. Researchers studied over 1300 people aged 16-51, finding that 1.2% of participants developed an internet addiction. Of these addicts, there was a greater incidence of moderate to severe depression when compared with those who were not addicted. And finally, back to Boston - According to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, men diagnosed with prostate cancer are at immediate risk of both suicide and cardiovascular death. Researchers reviewed data over 340, 000 prostate cancer patients, finding an increased incidence of suicide and cardiovascular death in the first year following diagnosis. Tue Feb 02 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96826 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96749 (January 29, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Oregon - According to two studies published in the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science, ADHD may arise because of lead exposure. The first study found that children with ADHD had higher levels of lead in their blood, though researchers could only connect these blood levels with hyperactivity. The second study, however, found a clear connection between levels of lead in the blood and the parent's and teacher's assessment of ADHD, an assessment that included both hyperactivity and attention problems. From Sheffield - According to a report published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, researchers have found that it is possible to improve eating skills of dementia patients. Comparing two different step-by-step intervention methods with no intervention at all, researchers found that the two methods improved nutritional assessment and difficulty feeding scores in dementia patients. And finally, from Sweden - A simple blood test may be able to predict rheumatoid arthritis even before symptoms develop, according to a report published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism. Researchers studied blood samples of over 80 people prior to developing RA symptoms, 69 of these people after they developed RA symptoms, as well as 256 controls. They found that elevation of cytokine levels in the blood predicted eventual development of rheumatoid arthritis. Fri Jan 29 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96749 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96547 (January 28, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Italy - People who smoke are also at risk from breathing their own secondhand smoke, according to a report published in the journal Environmental Health. Researchers studied the effects of second hand smoke on newsagents, following 15 active smokers who worked in their own newsstand and thereby were exposed only to their own smoke. They found that if someone was to smoke 14 cigarettes daily, inhaling their own secondhand smoke would be equivalent to smoking an extra 2.6 cigarettes. From Australia - According to a report published in the Journal of The American Geriatrics Society, overweight adults over 70 years old actually have a reduced risk of death in a ten year period. Researchers examined over 9,000 men and women, aged 70-75 at the beginning of the study, for ten years. Results showed, surprisingly, that participants who had a BMI considered overweight had a 13% lower risk of death during the study than participants considered to be of normal weight. And finally, from Seattle - According to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, symptoms are largely ineffective in determining early ovarian cancer. Researchers compared over 800 patients with ovarian cancer to over 1300 healthy controls. They found that evaluating symptoms--including abdominal pain, frequent urination and bloating--would only be effective in detecting early stage ovarian cancer in about 1 in 100 women. Thu Jan 28 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96547 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96463 (January 27, 2010 - Insidermedicine)  From New York - According to a report published in the journal Neuron, resting while awake may boost memory retention. Researchers showed participants several images and then put them in a period of awake rest--in which subjects could think about whatever they wanted to--while imaging a part of the brain that plays a role in memory known as the hippocampus. Results showed that during rest, there was significant activity in the hippocampus--and that those who had the most activity in that region scored better on consequent memory tests. From Indianapolis - Many American schizophrenic patients becomes victims of crime, according to a report published in BMC Psychiatry. Researchers studied 600 schizophrenic patients, finding that 46% of these patients had at least one encounter with the criminal justice system and that in 67% of these cases, the schizophrenic patients were the victim of a crime. And finally, from Toronto - According to a study published in the Journal of Trauma, a majority of trauma-related injuries that occur in rural Ontario, Canada result in pre-hospital patient mortality. Researchers studied nearly 3,500 trauma related mortalities that occurred in Ontario, finding 54% of trauma related deaths occurred before the patient even reached the emergency department. People who lived in the most rural locations, with little access to immediate trauma care centers, were twice as likely to die before reaching the hospital. Wed Jan 27 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96463 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96464 (January 26, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Florida - Being obese by age 7 increases a child's risk of heart disease and stroke later in life, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. Researchers studied 202 children--115 of whom were obese and 87 who were lean controls--that had not yet developed symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Results showed that the obese children had abnormalities in their blood widely regarded as predictors for the development of heart disease, even though these children did not have risk factors such as high blood pressure. From Ohio - According to a report published in the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, contact lenses that block ultraviolet radiation may protect eyes from the sun. Researchers exposed rabbits to the equivalent of roughly 16 hours of sunlight, finding that those who wore the UV blocking contact lenses experienced no damage to their corneas And finally, from Liverpool- According to a report published in Public Library of Science Medicine, at least 125 million pregnancies are at risk of malaria each year. Researchers targeted certain territories in which malaria thrives, multiplying the number of pregnancies by the fraction of people living within the limits of malaria transmission in each country. Results showed that 125.2 million pregnancies--or, 60% of all pregnancies globally--were at risk of malaria every year. Tue Jan 26 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96464 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96276 (January 25, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Sweden - According to a report published in Hypertension: Journal of the American Heart Association, mothers who smoke while pregnant increase their newborn's odds of having abnormal blood pressure. Researchers studied 19 children of non-smoking parents and 17 children of women who smoked during pregnancy, measuring blood pressure by having the infant tilted upright during sleep. At one week, results showed that newborns of mothers who smoked had a 10% increase in blood pressure when tilted, compared with only 2% increase in the non-smoking group. From North Carolina - A low-carbohydrate diet may help lower blood pressure, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Researchers studied nearly 150 overweight people, administering either a low fat diet plus the weight-loss drug orlistat or a low carb diet. Results showed that 47% of patients in the low-carb group had their blood pressure medication either lowered or stopped altogether, compared with only 21% in the orlistat group. And finally, from London - Children who are ambidextrous are more likely to suffer ADHD later in life, according to a report published online in the journal Pediatrics. Researchers followed nearly 8,000 children for 10 years, finding that children who were mixed handed by age 5 were 2x more likely to have ADHD symptoms in adolescence. Mon Jan 25 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96276 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96183 (January 22, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From California - Limiting the amount of salt in the diet can reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers used a computer model to estimate the impact that salt has on heart disease in the US. They found that reducing daily salt intake by 3 grams a day could potentially prevent 32,000 strokes and 54,000 heart attacks a year. From North Carolina - According to a report published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, researchers may have found clues in childhood that may be linked to schizophrenia later in life. Studying over 1,000 children since 1972, researchers found that children who went on to develop schizophrenia in adulthood experienced certain cognitive difficulties by age 7--including problems with visual and verbal learning, difficulty reasoning and conceptualizing, and memory and attention problems. And finally, from Manitoba - According to a report published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, researchers underline the importance of prompt treatment of severe H1N1 symptoms. Studying all confirmed cases of H1N1 in Manitoba, finding that the longer the time between development of symptoms and treatment with antiviral medication, the more likely that person was to have severe disease that necessitated admission to ICU. Fri Jan 22 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/96183 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95969 (January 21, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Minnesota - The higher degree of obesity a person has, the more likely they are to suffer a stroke regardless of how the obesity is measured, according to a report published in the Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association. Researchers studied over 13, 0 00 adults for 19 years, finding that patients in the highest BMI category had up to 2.12 times increased risk of stroke; those with the highest waist circumference had an increased risk of up to 3.19 times, and those with the highest waist-to-hip ratio saw their risk increase up to 2.55 times. From Michigan - According to a report published in the journal Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions, giving chest pain patients an electrocardiogram before going to the hospital has significant benefits. Researchers studied two groups of patients with symptoms suggestive of a heart attack: one received an ECG in the field, and the data was sent electronically to the hospital so that ER physicians could interpret the data and prepare for the patients arrival, while the control group had no prehospital ECG. Results showed that the ECG group had a lower mortality rate and a shorter time-to-treatment than the control group. And finally from Orlando - According to a report presented at the ASCO GI Cancers Symposium, researchers may have developed a blood test that can detect early colorectal cancer. Testing for CD24 protein levels in one group of patients with colorectal cancer and in another group of healthy controls, researchers saw that the test had a 78% sensitivity and nearly 87% specificity at distinguishing between the two groups. Thu Jan 21 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95969 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95875 (January 20, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From the UK - A new drug has shown to significantly help people with multiple sclerosis, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers studied over 1300 MS patients for two years, administering the drug Cladribine or a placebo. Results showed that the Cladribine group had a 55% reduced risk of relapse and 30% reduced risk of deterioration of their disease. From New York - According to another report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, even mild COPD has been shown to decrease heart functioning. Researchers studied nearly 3,000 adults, finding that even mild COPD--with little or no symptoms--was linked to a decreased ability of the heart to pump blood effectively. And finally, from Italy - HPV DNA testing may be more effective at preventing cervical cancer than pap smears, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Researchers studied data on 95,000 women, finding that those who were tested for HPV did not develop as many cancers as those who underwent only pap smears. These results, however, apply only to women over the age of 35--as HPV testing for women under 35 would likely lead to unnecessary treatment. Wed Jan 20 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95875 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95785 (January 19, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From South Africa - According to a report published online in the Cochrane Library, women in labour should be allowed to eat and drink what they want. Researchers conducted an analysis of five studies covering over 3000 women, finding no risks or benefits from eating or drinking during labor. This research calls into question many maternity wards' "nil by mouth" policies, in which women in labor are restricted in what they can eat and drink. From Hamilton - Concussions are not being taken as seriously as they should be, according to a report published in the journal Pediatrics. Researchers reviewed over 400 cases of children admitted to hospital with an acquired brain injury. Results showed that children who were diagnosed with a concussion were discharged from hospital earlier and returned to school earlier than children who were not diagnosed as having a concussion, an aspect that suggests that concussions are not widely regarded as the potentially serious brain injury that they may be. And finally, from Germany - According to another report published online in the Cochrane Library, people suffering from Parkinson's disease may find their walking improved with treadmill training. Researchers looked at data from 8 studies, covering over 200 Parkinson's patients. They found that treadmill training had a positive impact on patient's stride, speed, steps per minute and gait. Tue Jan 19 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95785 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95704 (January 18, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Seattle  - According to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, people suffering chronic pain that receive high doses of opioids face an increased risk of overdose. Researchers studied nearly 10,000 patients with opioid prescriptions, finding that those who were given a higher opioid dose had a nine-fold increased risk of overdose when compared to those with low doses. From St. Louis - According to a report published in the journal Neurology, elderly people who are developing Alzheimer's disease are more likely to suffer cognitive fluctuations--a host of symptoms that include daytime sleepiness, disorganized thinking and mental lapses. Researchers surveyed over 500 elderly people with memory problems. They found that patients who suffered these mental lapses had a 4.6x increased risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. And finally, from the UK - Text messaging while driving may be more dangerous than drunk driving, according to a report presented by the RAC Foundation for Motoring. Researchers studied 17-24 year olds using a driving simulator, examining how text messaging affected their ability to operate the car. They found that steering control was dramatically reduced by 91% when texting and that reaction times also worsened by 35%-- compared with 12% longer reaction times when inebriated.   Mon Jan 18 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95704 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95563 (January 15, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Alberta - According to a report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, end of life care for patients with chronic kidney disease is often inadequate. Researchers surveyed nearly 600 patients with late stage kidney disease. 61% said that they regretted the initiation of dialysis--maintaining that the treatment was often the doctors and family's choice, rather than their own. As well, most did not receive help in managing their pain nor did they receive psychological or emotional support. From  California - Green tea may have a protective effect against lung cancer, according to research presented at the Joint Conference for Molecular Origins of Lung Cancer. Researchers studied over 500 people, 170 who had lung cancer, 340 who were healthy controls. They found that people who drank at least one cup of green tea a day had 5x reduced risk of lung cancer, while past and present smokers had nearly 13x lower risk when compared to non green tea drinkers. And finally, from Rochester - According to another report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, more information is needed regarding  kidney abnormalities. Researchers examined nearly 2000 healthy potential kidney donors. They found that 1 in 4 of these people had an abnormality in their kidneys. Although these findings were not considered harmful, their long term effects were not clear. Fri Jan 15 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95563 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95564 (January 15, 2010 - Insidermedicine) Antibiotics and other drugs used to fight infections should be individually dosed based on patients' physical characteristics in order to maximize the drugs' effectiveness and safety, according to a Viewpoint argument made in the The Lancet. Here is some information about antimicrobial drugs: •    They are drugs used to kill germs, including bacteria and fungi, which can cause disease •    Some microbes are developing resistance to antimicrobial drugs •    Taking antimicrobial drugs only as prescribed by a health care professional can help diminish the threat of resistance Researchers from the Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Athens provided many compelling reasons why antimicrobial drugs should be dosed based on patients' individuals characteristics instead of using the same dose for all adults. In the face of globalization and the worldwide epidemic of obesity, physicians today are likely to treat adults who vary dramatically in size and body composition from one another. At the same time, there is good evidence that the way antimicrobial drugs are broken down and cleared by the body can be heavily influenced by such characteristics as body size and the proportion of fat to lean body mass present. In addition, as the threat of drug-resistant germs increases, it is crucial that currently available antimicrobial drugs be used in a matter than maximizes their effectiveness. An unresolved issue is exactly what body characteristics to take into account when determining the appropriate dose of an antimicrobial drug. Body weight, amount of lean body mass, amount of fat, and body surface area can all affect how a drug performs. It remains unclear which of these physical characteristics dosing adjustments should be based on. We spoke with Dr Matthew E Falagas, one of the author's of the viewpoint, who offered some further insight. Today's research suggests there is a need to move away from a "one size fits all" approach to dosing antimicrobial drugs and instead tailor the dose to the individual. Always follow your physicians' instructions carefully when taking antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs. Fri Jan 15 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95564 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95206 (January 14, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From London - According to a report published in the journal Cell Death & Disease, a new eye test could help produce an early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. The new technique, tested on animals, entails eye drops consisting of  fluorescent markers that attach to the relevant retinal cells and highlight the ones that are dying. The retina is then imaged and this indicates the extent of brain cell death that occurs in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. From San Francisco - According to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health, elderly women who suffer cognitive impairment are frequently given unnecessary mammograms. Researchers studied over 2,000 women aged 70 and older, finding that 18% of women with severe cognitive impairment received mammography screening. The problem, however , is that to benefit from screening one must have a life expectancy of 4-5 years, whereas the severely cognitively impaired women in this study had an average life expectancy of only  3.3 years. And finally, from California - A new blood test may be able to accurately diagnose early stage lung cancer, according to research presented at the Joint Conference for Molecular Origins of Lung Cancer. Researchers studied 28 lung cancer patients and 56 controls--people who were at high risk for the disease--using a panel of 40 potential lung cancer biomarkers. Results showed that the blood test was 92% accurate at finding stage 1 lung cancer among controls. Thu Jan 14 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95206 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95104 (January 13, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in The Lancet, the anti-clotting medication ticagrelor has proven to reduce mortality without consequently increasing bleeding in heart attack patients. Researchers studied nearly 13, 500 heart attack patients, randomizing some to ticagrelor and placebo and others to clopidogrel and placebo for six months following hospitalization. Results showed that the ticagrelor group had a 16% reduced risk of suffering either cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction or stroke when compared to the clopidogrel group. From New York - Scientists have discovered a genetic variant that may be associated with a lower risk for dementia, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers studied 523 adults aged 70 and older, finding that those who had two copies of the CETP longevity variant had a 72% reduced risk of eventually developing dementia during the 4.3 years of the study. And finally, from England - According to a report published in the journal PLoS ONE, new research has confirmed that BPA--or bisphenol A--is linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers studied nearly 1500 patients, finding that those who had the highest urinary concentration of BPA--a chemical compound that is used in baby bottles, food cans and water containers--were 33% more likely to suffer heart disease. Wed Jan 13 22:30:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95104 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95027 (January 12, 2010 - Insidermedicine)  From New York - Scientists believe that loss of smell may be a predictor of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report published in the Journal of Neuroscience. Studying mice genetically engineered to develop amyloid plaques in their brains, researchers noted that the mice with the highest concentration of amyloid sniffed items longer in order to identify them and also had difficulty discerning between odors. Researchers attributed these changes to the fact that the amyloid plaques first developed in a part of the mouse's brain that is also directly above their nose and responsible for smelling. From Baltimore - According to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, family history of pancreatic cancer significantly increases ones risk of also developing the disease. Researchers studied data on over 9,000 people from 1700 families. They found that a person has a sixfold raised risk of pancreatic cancer if one has multiple family members with the disease, while those who had  a relative under 50 with pancreatic cancer were at a 9x increased risk. And finally, from Australia - According to a repot published in the journal Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, excessive television watching  may shorten ones lifespan. Researchers followed nearly 9,000 adults for six and a half years, finding that those who watched four or more hours of TV each day had a 46% increased risk of dying during the study when compared with those who watched less than two hours daily. Tue Jan 12 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/95027 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94942 (January 11, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Switzerland - According to a report published in The Lancet, cesarean sections should not be done unless medically indicated. Researchers from the World Health Organization examined data on over 100 000 deliveries, finding an increased risk of both morbidity--admission to intensive care, hysterectomy and blood transfusion--and maternal mortality associated with cesarean sections that were not medically indicated. From Ohio - Researchers have identified a new predictor of success in cornea transplant surgery, according to a report published in the Archives of Ophthalmology. Previous theories  maintained that the donor's endothelial cells--the cells that line the underside of the cornea--would predict whether the transplant would succeed or not. New research, however, shows that the patient's endothelial count six month after transplantation is much better at predicting the eventual success of the procedure. And finally, from Baltimore - According to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, even a tiny amount of lead in the blood can be dangerous for children's kidneys. Researchers studied nearly 800 children and teenagers, finding that children with lead levels above 2.9 micrograms per deciliter had a kidney filtration rate that was 6.6 units lower than children who had less than 1 micrograms per deciliter in their blood. Mon Jan 11 22:30:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94942 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94943 (January 11, 2010 - Insidermedicine) A moderately intensive exercise routine can help stave off cognitive impairment, while intense exercise may help improve cognitive impairment that has already begun, at least among women, according to two studies published in the Archives of Neurology. Here is some information about mild cognitive impairment: •    it is a transition stage between the cognitive decline that occurs with normal aging and dementia seen in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease •    it can affect memory as well as reasoning, judgment, language, and attention •    while the condition may remain stable, many of those with mild cognitive impairment will go on to develop more serious symptoms In the first study, researchers from the University of Washington School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System in Seattle randomly assigned over 30 adults aged 55 to 85 with mild cognitive impairment to partake in a high-intensity aerobic exercise regimen or a stretching regimen. The aerobic group worked out with a professional to within 75 to 85% of their maximum heart rate for 45 to 60 min 4 days a week. After six months, both men and women in the aerobic group were more fit. The women in this group also enjoyed significant improvement in their cognitive ability. This improvement was much less marked in men, possibly due to sex differences in the metabolic effects of exercise. In the second study, researchers from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester compared the exercise habits of nearly 200 older adults with mild cognitive impairment with those of over 1,000 older adults without the condition. Their analysis revealed that exercising moderately reduced the risk of having mild cognitive impairment in mid life by 39% and in late life by 32% in both men and women. Interestingly, neither light nor intense exercise had this effect. Today's research suggests that engaging in at least a moderately intensive exercise routine can help keep your brain sharp as you age. Mon Jan 11 22:30:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94943 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94859 (January 8, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Michigan - According to a report published online in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, every additional pound at birth lowers a newborns risk of developing tuberculosis. Studying identical twins, researchers found that for every 1.1 pounds of birth weight, TB risk decreased by 87% for males and 16% for females. From Massachusetts - Men infected with HIV who have minimal cardiac risk factors nonetheless have been found to suffer from serious atherosclerosis, according to a report published in the journal AIDS. Researchers studied 110 men--78 of whom had HIV while 32 were healthy controls--with no symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Results of CT angiography showed coronary atherosclerosis in 59% of HIV patients, compared with 34% of controls. As well, five of the HIV patients had critical coronary stenosis compared with none of the controls. And finally, from Montreal - According to a report published in the journal Science Signalling, scientists have identified a connection between two genetic pathways that may help in the fight against cancer. Researchers discovered a link between the gene PTEN--which is known to suppress tumors--and the protein PKR--known to hinder protein synthesis. They found that, when the gene PTEN is either missing or mutated, PKR no longer stops protein synthesis, thereby setting the stage for tumor development. This discovery could potentially lead to new cancer treatments aimed at activating the PKR protein. Fri Jan 08 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94859 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94728 (January 7, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Virginia - Kidney disease patients with either high or low blood calcium levels are increased risk of premature mortality, according to a report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Researchers analyzed over 1200 males suffering from chronic kidney disease but who did not need dialysis. They found that patients with unusually high blood calcium levels were at 31% increased risk of death, while those with unusually low levels saw their risk increase by 21%. From Philadelphia - According to a report published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, childhood cancer survivors are more likely to develop several health conditions that consequently raise their risk of heart disease. Researchers examined information on over 8,500 pediatric cancer survivors and nearly 3,000 of their siblings. They found that survivors were 70% more likely to have diabetes than their siblings, 60% more likely to be taking a medication for cholesterol, and 2x more likely to be on medication for hypertension. And finally, from New York - Obesity is now considered as big a health threat as smoking, according to a report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. The 15 year study focused on quality adjusted life years (QALY)--a measurement of both quantity and quality of life, in regards to health. Though smoking was found to cause more mortality, obesity--which rose 85% over the course of the study--was found to have caused more disease. Thu Jan 07 23:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94728 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94729 (January 6, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Florida - According to a report published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, long term exposure to cell phones may have a protective effect against Alzheimer's disease. Researchers studied nearly 100 mice that were genetically engineered to have brain plaques, exposing them to electromagnetic waves from a cell phone. Results showed that beta-amyloid proteins were eliminated thereby erasing the brain plaques, while exposure in younger mice actually prevented the buildup of these proteins. From Bethesda - Caffeine may decrease liver fibrosis risk in chronic liver disease patients, according to a report published in the journal Hepatology. Researchers surveyed nearly 200 patients scheduled for a liver biopsy, finding that those who drank roughly 2.25 cups of coffee daily-or 308 mg of caffiene--had a 75% reduced risk of suffering advanced fibrosis. And finally, from Ohio - According to a report published in the journal Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, children who are emotionally or physically abused are more likely to suffer migraines and pain disorders later in life. Researchers surveyed nearly 1,400 migraine patients, finding that participants who reported emotional abuse or neglect in childhood had a higher rate of comorbid pain conditions than those who did not suffer this abuse.   Wed Jan 06 22:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94729 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94549 (January 5, 2010 - Insidermedicine)   From New York - According to a report published in the journal Cell Metabolism, the hormone leptin appears to control a gene that may have significant anti-diabetes effects. Previous research has demonstrated an association between  leptin and diabetes reversal, however, researchers did not know whether these effects were because of the hormone itself or because of the hormone's ability to reduce body weight. However, scientists have now discovered that leptin controls a gene called IGFBP2--a gene that, when increased in obese and diabetic mice, reversed the rodent's diabetes without inducing weight loss. From California - Smoking past age 80 significantly raises ones risk of age related macular degeneration, according to a report published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology. Researchers studied nearly 2,000 women taking part in a long term study. They found that smokers who were 80 years or older had 5.5 times increased risk of developing AMD than those of the same age who did not smoke. And finally, back to New York - Home visits by a nurse during and after pregnancy may help keep female children out of jail later in life, according to a report published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Researchers followed 400 families in a 27 year study, comparing a group of mothers who received prenatal and infancy home nurse visits with a group that did not.  While 30% of girls in the group who did not receive nurse visits were arrested by age 19, only 10% of girls in the group who did receive visits were arrested. Tue Jan 05 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94549 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94473 (January 4, 2010 - Insidermedicine) From Baltimore - Quitting smoking may result in an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Researchers studied nearly 11,000 adults for 17 years. Results showed that those who quit smoking were 70% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes within six years than those who had never smoked, an aspect that indicates the importance of weight control following smoking cessation and the importance of never smoking. From Detroit - According to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, most Americans suffering from major depression do not receive adequate treatment for the condition. Researchers personally surveyed over 15,000 adults, finding that even though half of participants with depression received at least one form of therapy, only 21% actually received a form of therapy that met treatment guidelines. And finally, from Michigan - Scientists may have discovered a new target in the fight against breast cancer, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.  Researchers studied human breast cancer stem cells in vitro,  targeting the protein known as CXCR1 with an antibody. Results showed a decrease in cancer stem cells as well as the death of many remaining tumor cells. Mon Jan 04 21:00:00 +0100 2010 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/94473 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93875 (December 21, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Cleveland - It is estimated that up 40% of skin aging is related to environmental factors. According to an analysis of 65 twin pairs, smoking, being overweight and not using sunscreen raise the risk of premature skin aging. The research, published in the Archives of Dermatology, also suggests that drinking alcohol may prevent premature skin aging. From Providence - According to research published in the Archives of Surgery, surgeons who run their ORs like a aviation cockpit may make surgical error less likely. Based on lessons learned from the aviation industry, surgical teams from Brown University implemented a series of checklists to improve communication and reduce errors. The process has resulted in 100% compliance and an improved feeling of self-empowerment among staff. And finally, from Boston - A new family of proteins has been identified that may lower the risk of getting the flu and may one day help in treating other viral infections. A research team from Harvard, studying human and mouse cells, identified the flu-fighting proteins that slowed most virus particles, including the H1N1 virus from infecting cells at the earliest stage in the virus lifecycle. Mon Dec 21 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93875 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93783 (December 18, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From California - According to a report published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, underage and young adults may have more alcohol related problems depending on the amount and type of alcohol outlets that surround them. Researchers examined hospital discharge information, as well as demographic data regarding alcohol outlets, focusing on youth aged 18-20 and 21-29. They found that greater numbers of restaurants were associated with more traffic accidents and greater numbers of bars were associated with more assault injuries. From the UK - Scientists have found that smoking can mutate a person's DNA, according to a report published in the journal Nature. A large international study identified almost 23,000 genetic mutations in lung cancer cells. As a result, researchers estimate that people attain one genetic mutation for every 15 cigarettes smoked--emphasizing that every time these mutations occur, they have a chance to 'hit' a cancer gene. And finally, from Cleveland - According to a report published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, scientists have developed a new blood clotting agent that may help soldiers wounded in combat. Researchers developed synthetic platelets that, once injected into the patient, combine with natural platelets to form a blood clot and stop the bleeding.  When injected in rats 20 seconds following an injury, bleeding time was reduced by 25%. Fri Dec 18 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93783 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93639 (December 17, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Massachusetts - Suffering an acute kidney injury (AKI) in-hospital increases a patient's risk of mortality once released, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Researchers studied over 83,000 patients who suffered sudden loss of their kidney function in-hospital, but did not undergo dialysis and survived a minimum of three months after their release from the hospital. Results showed that 30% of patients who suffered AKI died after two years, compared with only 16% of patients who did not suffer this injury. From California - According to a repot published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, watching less television burns calories in overweight adults. Researchers studied 36 overweight adults, having one group of participants cut their TV time in half while the other watched their normal amount. Results showed that the group of patients who watched less TV burned an extra 120 calories per day. And finally, back to Massachusetts - Researchers have identified naturally occurring proteins that help prevent viral infections, according to a report published in the journal Cell. Researchers found antiviral proteins in human and mouse cells, discovering that the proteins were able to either prevent or at least slow viruses--such as the seasonal flu, H1N1 influenza, West Nile virus, and the dengue virus--as soon as the infection started its course. Thu Dec 17 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93639 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93520 (December 16, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Montreal – According to a report published in the journal Respiratory Research, researchers may have found a connection between education level and problems with asthma.  Researchers studied over 800 adult patients, finding that those with less than 12 years of formal schooling were more likely to have worse control over their asthma symptoms as well as a 55% increased risk of going to the emergency department with an asthma related incident. From Washington – The FDA is now recommending that rosuvastatin can be used for preventive purposes, even in patients with no history of atherosclerosis. Researchers studied over 17,000 adult men and women who had no prior history of heart disease but had elevated c-reactive protein levels, administering rosuvastatin for nearly 2 years. Results showed a relative decrease of 44% in the amount of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. And finally, from Bethesda – According to a report published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, the amount of people with nearsightedness has increased significantly in the past 30 years. Researchers examined information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination survey (NHANES), comparing the prevalence of nearsightedness (or, myopia) from 1971-1972 with 1999-2004. They found that the overall incidence of myopia increased from 25% in the earlier period to 41.6% in the later period. Wed Dec 16 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93520 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93425 (December 15, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, high leptin levels may be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease.  Researchers measured leptin levels of over 700 healthy patients at the beginning of the study, 198 of whom underwent brain MRIs 7 years later. Results showed that those with the lowest leptin levels had an absolute risk of 25% for Alzheimer's, while those with the highest levels had a risk of only 6%. From Italy - According to another report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers have noted an association between increased cystic fibrosis carrier screening and decreased newborns who have the condition. Researchers studied two Italian regions for 14 years; one had a limited CF screening program of only relatives of CF patients and couples undergoing in vitro fertilization, while the other was more comprehensive and screened infertile couples as well as couples who were of reproductive age. Results showed that the comprehensive screening region had a much more significant decrease in neonates born with CF than the region with limited screening. And finally, from Pennsylvania - Young children presenting with headaches and gastrointestinal regurgitation frequently have insomnia symptoms as well, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Researchers analyzed 700 children between 5 and 12 years old, surveying their parents on how the child slept. Results showed that children with gastrointestinal regurgitation were 3.3 times more likely to have symptoms of insomnia, while children with headaches were 2.3 times likely to suffer these symptoms. Tue Dec 15 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93425 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93353 (December 14, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From St Louis - According to a study published in the Archives of Neurology, the presence of brain plaques in an otherwise healthy person may be a predictor of Alzheimer's disease later in life. For four years, researchers studied 150 adults aged 51 to 88, using positron emission tomography to image participant's brains. Over the course of the study, results showed that those who scanned positive for brain plaques would go on to demonstrate signs of mental impairment  and a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, while those who scanned negative for plaques did not  develop these problems. From San Diego - Scientists have discovered a protein that works to prevent liver cancer, according to a report published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Researchers made a mouse model that lacked the TAK1 protein--a sort of 'switch' that signals other proteins that help keep liver cells from dying and thereby provide protection against cancer. They found a significantly high rate of liver cell death in these mice--as their livers overcompensated for the missing protein and consequently produced too many liver cells thereby leading to inflammation and cancer. And finally, from Washington - According to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, antidepressants use in postmenopausal women is associated with an increased risk of stroke and death. Researchers examined data on over 160,000 women, finding that those who took antidepressants had an 45% increased risk of stroke and a 32% increased risk of death, though the overall risk of both were quite small. Mon Dec 14 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93353 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93240 (December 11, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Montreal - Scientists have discovered a molecule that provides a natural  defense against cancer, according to a report published in the journal Molecular Cell. Researchers found that the SOCS1 molecule works to prevent cancer by impeding the excessive activity of cytokines that is seen with the disease. The researchers also found that reintroducing the SOCS1 molecule into tumor cells precluded the cells from multiplying, thereby rendering the cancer dormant. From St. Louis - According to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, obese people can improve their heart function with even moderate weight loss. Researchers studied 60 obese patients for two years, subjecting the participants to low calorie diets and roughly 3 hours of exercise per week. Results showed that participants hearts were able to pump and relax better, and that their carotid artery walls and the heart muscle itself both decreased in thickness. And finally, from Texas - Researchers have found a naturally produced molecule that may help delay progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (or, Lou Gehrig's disease), according to a report published in the journal Science. Researchers discovered that the molecule microRNA-206 is produced by skeletal muscle as a response to nerve damage, pushing healthy nerves to send new 'branches' towards those nerves that have been affected, temporarily regenerating them. The molecule was shown to limit ALS symptoms and even lengthen life in a mouse model. Fri Dec 11 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93240 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93094 (December 10, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Ottawa - Canadians should be wary of taking certain acai berry products, according to a warning from Health Canada. The warning comes following the discovery that shipments of acai berry products crossing the Canadian border were found to contain sildenafil--a medication for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil should not be taken unless supervised by a doctor, as it is a prescription medication and people with heart problems may be at increased risk of stroke and heart attack should they take the drug. From Leeds - According to a report published in the journal Cell, researchers may have found a new approach to treating blood clots. Currently, most patients with blood clots are treated with the anticoagulant Warfarin--a medication that thins the blood but also puts the patient at risk of excessive bleeding if they get injured. Researchers have now discovered, however, that the molecule polyphosphate contributes to the blood clot in the artery without adversely affecting the patient's wound healing ability--a discovery that could make the molecule a new target in blood clot treatments. And finally, from California - Moderate alcohol consumption significantly increases a woman's risk for breast cancer recurrence, according to research presented at the 2009 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. Researchers studied nearly 1,900 breast cancer survivors for eight years. They found that three to four alcoholic drinks per week, regardless of the type, increased breast cancer recurrence risk by 30%, with obese women and postmenopausal women at the greatest risk. Thu Dec 10 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/93094 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92923 (December 9, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Baltimore – According to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, scientists may have discovered a way to reverse severe sickle cell disease in adults. Researchers studied 10 patients with severe sickle cell disease, administering an IV transplant of blood forming stem cells from healthy donors along with the drug rapamcyin. Results showed that 90% of these patients had normal red blood cells and consequently saw their organ damage reversed. From Finland – According to a report published in the journal Pediatrics, delayed introduction of solid foods into an infant’s diet may lead to food allergies later in life. Researchers reviewed data on nearly 1000 children who took part in a large birth cohort study. They found that late introduction (defined as 6 months) of eggs, wheat and oats into the child’s diet had a significant association with food sensitivity at age 5. And finally, from Germany – Bone marrow cells may be able to reduce patients risk of suffering a second heart attack, according to a report published in the journal Circulation: Heart Failure. Researchers randomized over 200 heart attack survivors who had undergone stent placement to either an infusion of progenitor cells from their own bone marrow into the damaged artery or a placebo solution. Results showed that none of the bone marrow infusion group suffered a second heart attack compared with 7 in the placebo group, a difference deemed statistically significant Wed Dec 09 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92923 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92845 (December 8, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Minnesota - According to a report published in the British Medical Journal, pediatric cancer survivors are at increased risk of heart disease as young adults. Researchers compared over 14, 000 cancer survivors taking part in a long term study with nearly 4,000 of their siblings. Results showed that childhood cancer survivors were more likely to develop heart failure, heart attacks, and heart inflammation in young adulthood. This risk was apparent even up to 30 years following cancer treatment. From Wisconsin - DNA screening of newborns is able to detect T-cell lymphopenia, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.  Researchers screened over 70,000 samples of newborn blood screening cards. They found that screening the amount of T-cell receptor excision circles (TREC) in the blood was able indicate whether or not the child suffered from T-cell lymphopenia (low levels of white blood cells). And finally, from Houston - A daily dose of pistachios may be able to reduce risk of lung cancer, according to a report presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Conference. Researchers divided 36 participants into two groups: one ate 68 grams of pistachios a day while the other maintained their normal diet. Results showed that the pistachio group had a significant rise in their amount of gamma-tocopherol--a form of Vitamin E that is known to provide some protection against lung cancer. Tue Dec 08 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92845 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92777 (December 7 - Insidermedicine) From Cambridge (UK) - According to a report published in the journal Nature, genetic mutations, known as copy number variants (where sections of DNA are deleted or duplicated), have been identified as a cause of severe childhood obesity. The researchers examining 300 severely obese children found that some of these children were missing sections of chromosome 16. They believe that a specific gene on this chromosome, SH2B1, plays a role in regulating weight and blood sugar. From California - Researchers have found a compound that may restore some lung function in those who suffer from cystic fibrosis, according to a report published in the online edition of Nature Chemical Biology. The drug suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), originally used to treat lymphoma, was able to restore 28% of normal lung cell function in cells taken from cystic fibrosis patients. While further research is necessary, this may one day ease the symptoms and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from cystic fibrosis. And finally, from Hamilton - A more convenient oral medication for those with the clotting disorder venous thromboembolism may soon be available. VTE is usually treated with the blood thinner warfarin, which requires patients to carefully watch their diet and has known interactions with other drugs. According to a new report published online by The New England Journal of Medicine, dabigatran etexilate is as safe and effective as warfarin, without the need for such careful monitoring or dose adjustment. Tue Dec 08 00:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92777 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92685 (December 4, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Atlanta – Certain childhood cancers are more likely to recur, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Analyzing data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study in which over 12,000 pediatric cancer survivors were evaluated, researchers found that the overall cancer recurrence rate was 4.4% at 10 years, and 6.2% at 20 years. However, ewing sarcomas had a recurrence rate of 13% at 20 years and astrocytoma had a recurrence rate of 14.4% after 20 years. From Denmark - Researchers have been unable to connect cell phone usage to the development of brain tumors, according to another report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Using  information from 4 Scandinavian countries, researchers found no significant difference in brain tumor rates from 1974 to 2003. Though there was an increase in meningioma occurrence among women, most of this increase was attributed to women over the age of 60--a group not considered to be heavy cell phone users. And finally, from Los Angeles – Cannabis may be helpful for patients with multiple sclerosis, according to a report published in the journal BMC Neurology. Researchers reviewed several controlled trials analyzing effects of cannabis extracts on MS symptoms. 5 out  of 6 of these trials noted that cannabis use resulted in improvements in mobility as well as a reduction of spasticity (a symptom in which the central nervous system tells muscles to contract or tense up). Fri Dec 04 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92685 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92523 (December 3, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - According to a report published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, scientists have identified a strong connection between cigarette smoking and colorectal cancer. For 13 years, researchers followed over 180,000 people aged 50-74. They found that people who smoked for more than 40 years had up to a 50% raised risk of developing either colon or rectal cancer. From Texas - Scientists have pinpointed a gene linked to medullobalstoma, according to a report published in the journal Science. Researchers genetically altered mice specifically to develop medulloblastoma--or, the deadliest form of brain cancer. However, they found that by shutting down the production of the gene Atoh1 they were able to prevent these mice from actually developing medulloblastoma, an aspect that researchers believe may lead to a new target in the fight against brain cancer. And finally, back to Philadelphia - Long term exposure to secondhand smoke raises risk of breast cancer, according to another report published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.  Researchers surveyed over 57,000 women who had no smoking history, but had experienced exposure to second hand smoke at home, work, or social settings. They found that women with high amounts of exposure to secondhand smoke during adulthood, primarily postmenopausal women, had an increased risk of breast cancer. Exposure under the age of 20, however, did not appear to raise this risk.  Thu Dec 03 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92523 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92388 (December 2, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From London - According to a report published in the journal Nature, balancing the protein in ones diet may be better for healthy aging than limiting caloric intake. Researchers fed fruit flies varying amounts of vitamins, lipids and amino acids in a diet consisting of sugar, water and yeast. The researchers were able to maximize lifespan without compromising fertility of the flies by varying the amount of  amino acids, while changing the other nutrients had no such effect. From Chicago - Women at high risk for breast cancer and have dense breasts may benefit from annual ultrasound screening, according to research presented at the annual meeting of Radiological Society of North America. Researchers studied over 600 high risk women, administering mammography and ultrasound every year. Of the 16 women that developed breast cancer, mammography alone detected 50-56% of cancers, while the addition of ultrasound detected 70-94% of cancers. And finally, from Boston - A ten year study into the possible preventive effect of aspirin in age related macular degeneration has yielded no significant results, according to research published online in the journal Ophthalmology. Researchers studied nearly 40,000 women involved in the Women's Health Study, finding that patients who took aspirin every other day had an 18% lower risk of AMD compared with those who took placebo; this difference was deemed nonsignificant. Wed Dec 02 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92388 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92389 (December 1, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Toronto - According to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, pregnant women with glucose intolerance are more likely to demonstrate cardiovascular risk factors after birth. Researchers followed nearly 500 women, looking for the prevalence of metabolic syndrome--a general term for risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and low HDL cholesterol--after birth. They found an association between even mild glucose intolerance and metabolic syndrome just 3 months following birth. From California - Patients may recover quicker from knee surgery if they have a good stress response to the operation, according to a report published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. Researchers studied 57 patients scheduled for knee surgery, counting the amount of immune cells in the blood up to 10 days before, the morning of, and 30 minutes after the operation. They found that patients whose immune system had a good stress response to surgery showed better knee function and mobility as well as less pain up to a year following the operation. And finally, from Chicago - Radiation exposure from mammography increases the risk of breast cancer in women with a family history or genetic predisposition to the disease. For these high risk women, researchers found that  low dose radiation exposure from mammography raised the likelihood of breast cancer 1.5 times, while 5 or more exposures or exposure under the age 20 resulted in a 2.5 times increased risk. This research was presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America. Tue Dec 01 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92389 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92224 (November 30, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston -  Americans born in the Southern 'stroke belt' may be at increased risk of dying from stroke, according to a report published in the journal Neurology. Researchers examined national death records from 1980, 1990, and 2000--looking specifically at Southern states that comprise the 'stroke belt'--North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama. They found that, for people who were born in and lived in the stoke belt, 74 people per 100,000 died from stroke compared with only 47 per 100,000 who were not born in or did not live there. From Connecticut - According to a report published in the journal Arthritis Care and Research, when patients are given the choice of their medical treatment they will usually  take the conservative approach. Researchers subjected over 200 participants to 2 videos outlining medications and their serious, but rare, consequences. Participants were then given two sets of instructions, one in which the doctor essentially chose for the patient and prescribed the medication, and another in which the choice to take the medication was left completely up to the patient. Results showed that the responsibility of choosing medical treatment increased a patient's concern over the side effects and thus led to less willingness to take these treatments. And finally, from California - Too much exercise for middle aged men and women may lead to arthritis, according to a report presented at the meeting of the Radiological Society of North America. Researchers studied 236 adults aged 45-55, finding that those who engaged in higher activity levels suffered more damage to their knees, thereby increasing their risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. Mon Nov 30 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92224 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92072 (November, 27, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Chicago – It is estimated that the number of diabetics will double and costs for their care care will triple in the next 25 years, according to a report published in the journal Diabetes Care. Researchers estimate that the prevalence of diabetes will increase from 8 million people to 14 million, and that the cost to treat these people will increase from $45 billion annually to $171 billion annually. Researchers believe that aging baby boomers are a main reason for these increases.  From Norway – According to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, administering IV drugs for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest does not appear to improve their survival. Based on a randomized clinical trial, researchers found that only 10% of patients survived an out of hospital cardiac arrest regardless of whether or not they received intravenous medications . And finally from Sweden - Men who avoid confrontation at work may be at increased risk of heart attack, according to research published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers surveyed over 2,700 men, interested in how they reacted to conflict at work, including whether they walked away from confrontation. Results showed that men who engaged in  'covert coping' techniques--such as leaving an encounter or letting things pass without saying anything--had up to five times the risk of suffering heart attack or dying from heart disease in the next ten years. Fri Nov 27 20:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92072 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92022 (November 26, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From London - Dementia is the leading cause of disability in elderly people who live in low and middle income countries, according to a report published in The Lancet. Examining nearly 15,000 elderly people in seven different low to middle income countries, researchers found that dementia was, by far, the biggest contributor to disability in the elderly; the condition rated a median of 25% in population-attributable prevalence fraction. From Atlanta - The CDC is reporting that there has been a concerning increase in the amount of serious pneumococcal infections associated with the H1N1 flu pandemic. For example, researchers point out that the the amount  of pneumococcal cases in October, 2009 for the city of Denver  was 58. However, the city's five year average of cases for the month of October prior to H1N1 was only 20. This increase also disproportionately affects adults between 20 and 59 years old. And finally, back to London - Diabetic patients may benefit more from CABG than from PCI with stenting, according to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Researchers randomized over 500 diabetic patients suffering from multi-vessel disease to either stenting or CABG. They found that PCI failed non-inferiority tests regarding one year outcomes of myocardial infarction, stoke and death. Thu Nov 26 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/92022 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91936 (November 25, 2009 - Insidermedicine)  From Massachusetts - For the first time, scientists have developed a cancer vaccine that can eliminate tumors in mice, according to a report published in the journal Science Translational Medicine. Researchers from Harvard University developed an implant-based vaccine. Smaller than a fingernail, the vaccine contains antigens that are tumor specific and is implanted underneath the skin, releasing cytokines and reprogramming the immune system to specifically target tumors. From London - According to a report published in The Lancet, walking and cycling show more health and climate benefits than driving lower emission vehicles. Researchers estimated the future health and climate consequences of different transportation plans--comparing current projections (with things remaining as they are) with several alternative scenarios that included lower emission vehicles, less motor traffic, more active travel through cycling and walking and a combination of all of these. They found that active travel and less motor traffic showed as much as 40 times the health and carbon dioxide benefits when compared to only driving lower emission vehicles. And finally, from Italy - Limiting salt intake significantly reduces risk of stroke and heart disease, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 13 studies--covering more than 170,000 people--and found that cutting salt consumption by 5 grams a day could lower risk of stroke by 23% and heart disease by 17%. Wed Nov 25 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91936 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91937 (November 24, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, elderly people who suffer chronic pain are at increased risk of falls. Researchers studied nearly 800 adults over the age of 70 for an 18 month period. Results showed that those who experienced chronic pain in at least two joints had a 50% increased risk of falling. From Belgium - Women with multiple sclerosis may find that giving birth may slow progression of their condition, according to research published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, & Psychiatry. Researchers divided 330 women with MS into four groups; those who only had children after developing MS;  those who only had children before developing MS; those who had children before and after developing MS, and finally, those who did not have children at all. Results showed that women who gave birth saw their MS progress significantly slower than those who did not give birth at all. And finally, from Washington - Community associated MRSA strains are on the rise in outpatient hospital facilities. Using information from over 300 microbiology labs, researchers found a seven fold increase in the amount of MRSA in hospital outpatients. This research was published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases. Tue Nov 24 20:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91937 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91748 (November 23, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Germany -  Stress-induced hypertension may arise from variation of the phosducin gene, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Researchers generated mice that did not have the phosducin gene, finding that they had higher baseline blood pressure than normal mice as well as a higher blood pressure response to stress. When this gene was studied in humans, researchers found that one particular phosducin gene variation was also associated with higher baseline blood pressure. From New York - Most cancer patients who receive chemotherapy consequently suffer from insomnia. Researchers surveyed over 800 cancer patients who had undergone their first two chemotherapy treatments. Results showed that three quarters of these patients suffered from either insomnia or other sleep-related disorders. This research was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. And finally, from Washington - According to a report published in the journal Pediatrics, children in home-based daycare watch twice as much TV has those in center-based daycare. Researchers studied nearly 170 different child care programs. Preschool aged children in home based daycares watched an average of 2.4 hours of TV a day, while children in center based daycares watched only 0 .4 hours per day. Mon Nov 23 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91748 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91640 (November 20, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Houston - A genetic sonogram significantly strengthens Down syndrome detection when used along with typical non-invasive testing, according to research published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology. Studying over 8,000 pregnant women, researchers found that ultrasound alone had a 69% detection rate of Down syndrome. However, ultrasound combined with non-invasive biochemical screening resulted in a 98% detection rate as well as a decrease in the number of false positive tests results. From Los Angeles -  Patients with unresectable liver cancer benefit the most from triple-drug transcatheter arterial chemoemobilization (TACE)  followed with liver transplantation. Researchers studied 124 patients with unresectable liver cancer; 28 of whom underwent triple drug TACE and liver transplant and 96 who only underwent triple drug TACE. Median survival in the liver transplant group was 97 months more than those who underwent triple drug TACE alone. This research was published in the American Journal of Roentgenology. And finally, from Baltimore - Children with asthma may see their symptoms worsen if they have a depressed mother, according to research presented in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology. Researchers studied 262 mothers of children with asthma. They found that children whose mothers were depressed had more frequent asthma symptoms over 6 months than those whose mothers were not depressed. Fri Nov 20 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91640 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91293 (November 19, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Norway – Low level laser therapy can worsen skin cancer, and thus should not be used over melanomas. Researchers injected mice with melanoma cancer cells and applied cold laser therapy. They found that the laser therapy aggravated the skin cancer and increased the growth of the melanoma tumor. This research was published in the journal BMC Cancer.   From California - Pregnant women with MS are no more likely to develop complications than other women, according to a report published in the journal Neurology. Researchers analyzed information on over 18 million births, 10, 000 of which were delivered by women with MS. They found that, while women with MS were more likely to have slower growing fetuses and give birth via caesarian section, they were no more likely than other women to suffer pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia..   And finally, from Hungary – According a report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, sleep apnea in kidney transplant patients increases their risk of stroke or heart disease. In a study of over 100 kidney transplant patients, researchers found that 25% suffered from sleep apnea and had twice the risk of developing heart disease or stroke than transplant patients without apnea. Thu Nov 19 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91293 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91294 (November 18, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Washington - Using  Prilosec in combination with Plavix dramatically reduces the effectiveness of Plavix, according to a report released by the FDA. Because Plavix sometimes causes an upset stomach, many people turn to the antacid Prilosec. However, studies from the manufacturer of clopidogrel reveal that this particular combination reduces Plavix effectiveness by 50%, increasing ones risk for heart attack or stroke. From Connecticut - According to research published in the journal Cell Host & Microbe, elderly people are more susceptible to death from viral infections because they have overactive immune systems. Infecting mice of all ages with the herpes virus,  scientists found that only aged mice were suffering liver damage. However, when researchers restrained the aged mice's cytokines--a molecule that allows cells of the immune system to communicate with one another--they found that the mice no longer died nor suffered damage to their livers. And finally, from Orlando - Playing active video games may be equivalent to moderate exercise, as these games actually cause people to sweat. Researchers studied 12 healthy men and women while they played a variety of sports and fitness active video games. Results showed that, for a 33% of the games played, each person expended an amount of energy that was equivalent to walking on a treadmill at at least three miles an hour. This study was presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association. Wed Nov 18 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/91294 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90943 (November 17, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the Archives of Surgery, trauma patients without health insurance are at significantly increased risk of mortality. Researchers studied nearly 700,000 trauma cases, adjusting for factors such as comorbidities and the severity of the injury incurred. They found that trauma patients without insurance were at 89% increased risk of death.  From Washington - The US Preventive Services Task Force is recommending that women do not need to undergo routine mammogram screening for breast cancer until the age of 50. This screening is to take place only every two years. Researchers found that: younger women are more likely to have false-positive diagnoses;  over-diagnosis occurs 1 to 10% of the time because of screening; and breast self-examination does not appear to decrease risk of mortality. This research is published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. And finally, from Orlando - According to research presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, phone calls from a nurse may help patients who are suffering depression after undergoing CABG. Researchers studied over 300 post-op CABG patients who were suffering from depression, randomizing some to traditional anti-depressive therapy and others to an intervention program in which a nurse called patients and talked to them about depression. Patients who received these phone calls saw their depression symptom scores improve more than those who received traditional therapy. Tue Nov 17 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90943 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90838 (November 16, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Orlando - According to research presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, heart disease patients find their risk of heart attack, stroke and death drastically reduced if they practice transcendental meditation. For nine years, researchers studied over 200 adult men and women suffering from heart disease, randomly assigning one group to practice transcendental meditation and the other to take part in a dietary modification and exercise program. They found that patients who practiced transcendental meditation had a 47% lower rate of heart attacks, stokes and death when compared to the other group. From Toronto - According to research published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, a recent international study of schizophrenia has revealed interesting similarities of the condition regardless of region, economy and culture. Studying over 17,000 schizophrenic patients in 37 different countries, researchers found the following:  only 19% of patients were in paid employment; 62% reported sexual dysfunction; nearly 70% lived in dependent housing; and 74% were taking additional prescribed drugs along with their antipsychotic medication. And finally, back to Orlando - Patients with heart failure and a normal left ventricular ejection fraction may find their heart rate has an impaired response to exercise, according to another report presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association. Researchers studied over 80 patients, comparing those who had heart failure and preserved LVEF and with a control group of healthy patients. Those with heart failure had lower peak heart rate response as well as lower change in heart rate during exercise when compared to the healthy group. Mon Nov 16 21:20:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90838 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90725 (November 13, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Atlanta - According to new statistics released by the CDC, 22 million Americans have been infected with the H1N1 flu in the last six months. In that same time period, roughly 3,900 people have died from H1N1, with 540 of these deaths being pediatric. Furthermore, of the 98, 000 H1N1 patients hospitalized, 36, 000 were 17 years or younger. Over 2,900 patients who have died from H1N1 were between ages 18 and 64. From Los Angeles - Individuals now entering their 60s--or baby boomers--face unusually high disability rates, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Researchers analyzed information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination surveys, comparing the mobility and independence of baby boomers with that of the previous generation. Results showed that disability rates in both aspects have increased between 40 and 70% for the baby boom generation. And finally, from Madrid - Exercising up until the end of pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and child, according to a report published in the International Journal of Obesity. Researchers studied 160 pregnant women between 25 and 35 years old, half of whom took part in a supervised exercise regimen. Results showed that exercise in the second and third trimester had no negative effect on fetal health, but rather, made it less likely for the mother to have a heavier child. Fri Nov 13 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90725 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90563 (November 12, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Pittsburgh - High hemoglobin levels may be a predictor of diabetic retinopathy later in life, according to a report published in the Archives of Ophthalmology. Researchers followed 426 diabetic patients for 18 years. For ever 1 g/dl increase in hemoglobin levels, men were at 29% increased risk of diabetic retinopathy, while women saw their risk increase by 10%. From Mexico - While young people are more likely to get the H1N1 flu, older people are more likely to die from it, according to a report published in The Lancet. Researchers found several interesting statistics on over 63, 000 cases of flu-like illnesses studied:  10.3% of those aged 70 and older who were infected died, while only 0.9% of those aged 20-29 died; 6% of pregnant women with H1N1 died; nearly 1% of all H1N1 cases died; the risk of catching H1N1 fell by 35% for those vaccinated for the seasonal flu; chronic underlying illnesses raised risk 6 fold; and finally, people who did not go to the hospital within four days of developing H1N1 symptoms had a 20% increased risk of death for each day they put off going to the hospital. And finally, from St. Louis - According to a report published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, a Westernized diet may lead to obesity through microbes found in the gut. Researchers implanted human intestinal microbes into mice and changed the rodents food from a plant based, low fat diet to a diet high in both fats and sugars. Results showed that microbes linked with obesity were immediately found in the mice intestines after the change in diet, with the mice eventually becoming obese.    Thu Nov 12 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90563 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90182 (November 10, 2009 - Insidermedicine)  From Germany – According to research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, obesity greatly increases ones chances of having an enlarged left atrium. Researchers examined information on over 1200 adults, administering echocardiograms at the beginning of the study as well as ten years later. Results showed that obesity increased the risk of left atrial enlargement by 2.5 times.   From Boston – Patients who suffer adverse effects from hospital treatment do not typically receive explanations from medical personnel, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Surveying over 2,500 patients recently discharged from the hospital, researchers reported a total of 845 adverse events. Only 39.5% of the time were these adverse events actually explained to the patient by medical personnel.     And finally, from Baltimore – According to another report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, US soldiers are frequently unable to return to combat because of back pain. Researchers reviewed information on over 1,400 soldiers evacuated from either Iraq or Afghanistan who were suffering back pain. Results showed that only 13% of these soldiers actually returned to duty following their evacuation.  Tue Nov 10 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90182 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90074 (November 9, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From San Diego - According to research presented at the American College of Chest Physicians meeting, the risk of hospitalization for COPD patients may be dependent on the type of bronchodilator they use. Researchers examined the cases of over 50, 000 COPD patients, dividing the patients into five different treatment groups. Results showed that  monotherapy with tiotropium had the lowest amount of hospitalizations. From Toronto - Women who have dense breasts and breast cancer may be at higher risk of recurrence, according to a report published in the journal Cancer. Researchers reviewed over 335 breast cancer patients, all of whom had their breast density assessed before undergoing breast conserving surgery. Results showed that women with high breast density had 6 times the recurrence rate after undergoing surgery. And finally, from Chicago - According to a report presented at the meeting for the American Society of Radiation Oncology, prostate cancer patients who have early rising PSA levels after radiation therapy are at increased risk of  mortality. Researchers examined records on over 6000 prostate cancer patients treated with radiation therapy. Survival rates after 5 years were 20% lower for patients who had biochemical failure within 18 months of treatment as opposed to those whose PSA failure occurred after 18 months. Mon Nov 09 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90074 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90075 (November 6, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Germany - According to a report published in the journal Current Biology, babies cries mimic the intonations of their mothers language. Researchers compared the cries of 60 French and German babies. They found that the German newborns cries had a 'falling' melody, much like the German language, while French babies cries had a rising accent that mimicked French inflections. These findings, researchers believe, indicate that babies imitate the sound of the language that first makes it through to the womb. From Washington - Heavy air pollution increases an infants risk of bronchiolitis, according to a report published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Researchers studied nearly 12,000 infant bronchiolitis cases, analyzing the ambient pollution exposure 10 km within the child's home. Results showed that increased exposure to nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide all raised an infants risk of bronchiolitis. And finally, from England - According to a report published in the British Medical Journal, pregnant women should not rely on home fetal heart monitors to indicate the health of the fetus.  Researchers suggest that an untrained ear may misinterpret sounds from the monitor as reassurance, when in fact something may be wrong and the sounds could be the mothers pulse or placental flow. Fri Nov 06 20:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90075 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90076 (November 5, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Colorado - Coronary artery bypass surgery without a heart-lung machine has been shown to be no better than the traditional 'on-pump' process, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers examined over 2000 patients; half underwent surgery aided by use of a heart-lung machine (or, 'on-pump') while the other half underwent surgery with their heart still beating (or, 'off-pump'). Results showed that both procedures had similar outcomes after 30 days, though outcomes after a year appeared to favor the on-pump procedure. From Paris - According to a report published in The Lancet, x rays for mechanically ventilated patients should be taken only as needed. Researchers examined 21 different ICUs, randomly conducting either routine, daily chest x rays on patients or x rays as needed. Results showed  a 32% reduction of the amount of x rays taken with the as needed approach, with no difference in the amount of diagnostic interventions. And finally, from Houston - According to a report published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research, green tea may have promise as an oral cancer prevention agent. For nearly 6 years, researchers studied 41 oral leukoplakia patients--administering either green tea extract or placebo. They found that 58.8% of patients who took the green tea extract had a clinical response, compared with only 18.2% on placebo. Thu Nov 05 23:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90076 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90077 (November 4, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston – According to a report published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, low blood cholesterol levels may reduce risk of prostate cancer. Researchers studied over 5500 men aged 55 and older. For men with cholesterol levels under 200, results showed a 59% reduced risk of developing high grade prostate tumors.   From Pittsburgh – Lite, low tar, or mild cigarettes actually make it harder for smokers to quit, according to research published in the journal Tobacco Control. Researchers surveyed over 30, 000 smokers, 12,000 of whom smoked a ‘light’ brand of cigarettes. Results showed that people who smoked lite cigarettes were 46% less likely to give up smoking.   And finally, from Houston - According to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, even small HER2 positive breast tumors are more likely to recur within 5 years. Examining nearly 1000 women diagnosed with breast cancer in a twelve year period, researchers found that women with HER-2 positive tumors were at a five times increased risk of metastases if the cancer returned. Wed Nov 04 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90077 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90078 (November 3, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Wisconsin - According to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, smokers who want to quit may find that the best approach is to use both a nicotine patch and lozenges. Researchers studied over 1500 adult smokers, randomizing participants to five different smoking cessation regimens. After six months, those who took the patch plus lozenge were less likely to smoke than those who took the other treatments. From Philadelphia - According to a report presented at the meeting of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, obese HIV patients have a slower immune response to antiretroviral treatment than HIV patients of normal weight. Using data from the US Military Natural History Study, researchers examined the BMIs of over 1100 HIV patients. They found that patients with a BMI greater than 30 regained less CD4-positive T cells following treatment than those whose BMI was between 18.5 and 24.9. And finally, from the Netherlands - Middle aged hypertension may be a predictor of Alzheimer's disease later in life, according to another report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. Dutch researchers studied nearly 200 families, half whom had parents with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and the other half with no history of the condition. They found that 40% of middle aged offspring of parents with Alzheimer's had high blood pressure, compared with only 29% of offspring with no family history of dementia. Tue Nov 03 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90078 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90079 (November 2, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - According to a report presented at the meeting of the Infectious Diseases Society of America,  a specific strain of MRSA has been connected with unusually high death rates. Compared with a 10-30% death rate within a month with a typical MRSA infection, this partially resistant vancomycin strain known as USA600 has a 50% one month mortality rate. From San Diego - Dialysis patients who have low body fat are at a higher risk of mortality, according to a report presented at the meeting of the American Society of Nephrology. Researchers compared the body fat percentage of over 650 dialysis patients with mortality rates over 5 years. They found that dialysis patients who had less than 10% body fat were almost 3 times more likely to die than those whose body fat was between 20-30%. And finally, from Baltimore - According to a report published in the Journal of Public Health, a significant number of children die from lack of health insurance. Examining roughly 23 million pediatric cases from 1988 to 2005, researchers estimate that almost 17, 000 pediatric deaths may have been prevented had the children had insurance.     Mon Nov 02 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90079 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90080 (October 30, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - Seasonal flu shots during pregnancies may result in larger, healthier newborns that are better protected against the flu, according to two reports presented at the meeting of the Infectious Disease Society of America. The first study revealed that the risks of having a small baby and/or premature birth were reduced by 70% for women who were vaccinated during their pregnancy . In the second study, results showed that the flu vaccination was nearly 79% effective at preventing hospitalization in the first year of the childs life. From Washington - According to a report published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, most adults in the US say they do not get enough sleep. Researchers from the CDC surveyed over 400,000 people by phone, and found that over 11% of Americans reported  not getting enough sleep even once in the previous month. And finally, from Geneva -  According to new recommendations released by the World Health Organization, one dose of the H1N1 vaccine is sufficient, even for young children. The WHO has also reversed its earlier recommendations that pregnant women should preferably take the non-adjuvant vaccine, as results have shown that the adjuvant vaccine is safe and does not effect the development of the fetus, pregnancy or birthing process. Fri Oct 30 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90080 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90081 (October 29, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From the UK - According to a report published in the Lancet Oncology, using both chemotherapy and radiotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer patients significantly improves their chances of survival. Researchers followed the outcomes nearly 1000 patients who had advanced head and neck cancer. They found that those who underwent both chemotherapy and radiotherapy saw their survival increase by 1.2 years over those who underwent radiotherapy alone From Pittsburgh - Women who suffer from anxiety during their pregnancy are more likely to have small babies, according to a report published in Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. Researchers studied a group of pregnant women, adjusting for factors such as race, drug use, and alcohol use. They found that women who suffered from chronic and severe anxiety were more likely to have a small baby, particularly when the anxiety took place in the third trimester. And finally, from St. Louis - According to a report published in The Lancet, lifestyle changes dramatically reduce ones risk of type 2 diabetes. Researchers examined results from the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study, a ten year follow up of over 3200 overweight patients who participated in the Diabetes Prevention Program. They found that intensive lifestyle changes--such as exercise and reduced caloric intake--resulted in a 34% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Thu Oct 29 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90081 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90082 (October 28, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the British Medical Journal, people who suffer migraines are at increased risk of stroke. Researchers analyzing 9 studies noted a 73%  increase in stroke risk in those who had migraines. The risk was even higher in those who had migraine with preceding aura. From the Netherlands - Both non-cardiovascular and cardiovascular causes increase mortality rates among dialysis patients, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers compared mortality rates of over 120, 000 dialysis patients to the general population. For dialysis patients, they found that nearly 40% of deaths came from cardiovascular causes while over 50% were the result of non-cardiovascular problems. And finally, from France - Scientists have found that Alzheimer's patients with diabetes actually lose their memory slower than those without diabetes, according to a report published in the journal Neurology. Researchers studied over 600 patients with Alzheimer's disease--10% of whom had diabetes--testing their memory twice a year for four years. Results showed that the patients without diabetes suffered a more rapid cognitive decline that those with the condition. Wed Oct 28 20:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90082 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90083 (October 27, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From California – According to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, middle aged women are more commonly suffering heart attacks now than in the last 20 years. Researchers examined data on over 8,000 adults who participated in both National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. They found that rates of myocardial infarctions among women 35-54 increased from .7% in 1988 to 1% in 2004.   From Atlanta – While heart attack rates are increasing for middle aged women, mortality rates from these heart attacks are decreasing, according to another study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Using data from the National Registry of Myocardial Infarction, researchers analyzed the amount of inhospital deaths that occured following an MI among over 900 000 patients. They found that, for middle aged women, deaths from heart attacks decreased over 50%.   And finally, from Denmark - According to a report published in the journal Circulation, obesity increases risk of venous thromboembolism, especially when ones excess weight is around the waist and hips. Researchers analyzed data from the Danish "Diet, Cancer, and Health" study, examining the results of over 57,000 adult men and women. For every 5 cm increase in waist circumference, there was an 18% increased risk for men for both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism and a 21% increased risk for women. Tue Oct 27 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90083 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90084 (October 26, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the journal Pediatrics, many children in the US do not get adequate vitamin D. Researchers studied nearly 3,000 blood tests of children aged 1-11. They found that at least 1 in 5 children were Vitamin D deficient, an aspect that raises their risk for other medical problems such as brittle bones. From Oklahoma - Scientists have identified a new way to treat internal bleeding, according to a report published in the journal Nature Medicine. Researchers discovered how certain proteins enter the blood stream and damage blood vessel lining, leading to internal bleeding. In pre-clinical trials, scientists used an antibody to disrupt this process and block the proteins. The trials showed promising results with no side effects, a discovery that could prove life saving for both car crash victims and soldiers injured in combat. And finally, from Washington - The FDA has approved emergency use of an intravenous flu treatment. The drug--called Peramivir, the only antiviral treatment given intravenously--can be used on both children and adults. However, it is to be used only when the patient is non-responsive to oral or inhaled antivirals, and treatment through inhalation or enterally is not expected to be effective or feasible. Mon Oct 26 21:00:00 +0100 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90084 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90085 (October 23, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia – According to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology meeting, patients with lupus who suffer depression are at an even greater risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers studied over 150 women with lupus and who had no prior history of cardiac problems. Results showed that lupus patients with meaningful symptoms of depression were nearly 4 times more likely to suffer atherosclerosis.   From Montreal – According to research presented at the International Diabetes Federation World Congress of Diabetes, having both diabetes and schizophrenia increases ones likelihood of suffering a cardiovascular event. Researchers studied the health records of over 125,000 diabetic patients, 2,952 of whom had both diabetes and schizophrenia. They found that patients with both conditions were at a 20% increased risk of heart disease, and also, 49% less likely to have revascularization to treat the cardiovascular event. And finally, from Sweden – Even low alcohol consumption may be bad for ones general health, according to a report published in the journal Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation. Researchers analyzed the amount of medical care costs and events that were alcohol related, using information from the 2002 Swedish Social Cost of Alcohol Project. They found that men who drank at most 5 units of alcohol a day, and women who drank 2.5 units a day, were responsible for more health service costs than people who did not drink alcohol. Fri Oct 23 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90085 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90086 (October 21, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Washington - Drinking lots of coffee is beneficial for patients with chronic hepatitis C, according to a report published in the journal Hepatology. Researchers studied over 750 patients with Hepatitis C for nearly 4 years. Patients who drank at least three cups of coffee a day were 53% less likely to see their liver disease progress. From North Carolina - According to a report published in the Archives of Surgery, patients who are 'super obese' and those with a higher comorbidity burden are more likely to die following bariatric surgery. Researchers studied the records of over 800 patients who underwent bariatric surgery. Results showed that patients with a body mass index higher than 50 were twice as likely to die a year after the surgery, while those with a high comorbidity score were three times as likely to die. And finally, from Atlanta - The CDC continues to assert that the H1N1 flu disproportionately affects people under 25 years of age. 54% of hospitalizations for H1N1 and 24% of H1N1 related deaths are people under 25. Complications from the flu are more likely to occur in pregnant women and people with asthma. Wed Oct 21 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/90086 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88348 (October 20, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the Archives of Dermatology, residents are inadequately trained to conduct skin cancer exams. Researchers surveyed over 300 residents from four different programs. They found that 55% of these residents said they had never even seen a skin cancer exam, while 76% maintained that they had never been taught how to conduct one. From New York - Putting children on a shorter antibiotic course following tonsillectomy is still effective, according to a report published in the Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery. Researchers studied nearly 50 tonsillectomy patients 1-13 years old, administering amoxicillin for three days after the procedure, and then either placebo or amoxicillin for four more days. Results showed that there was no difference between the two groups, as both groups of children took the same amount of time to get back to normal. And finally, from Chicago - Browsing the internet may have a positive effect on brain function, according to a report presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. Researchers studied brain scans of over 20 adults 55 to 78 years old; half were experienced with the internet, while the other half was not. MRI results showed that those with experience with the internet had much higher levels of brain activation, while the inexperienced group showed improvements in brain function after merely a few days of surfing the internet. Tue Oct 20 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88348 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88243 (October 19, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Denver - According to a report presented at the American Dietetic Association meeting, children 1 to 2 years old are at increased risk of having an unhealthy diet. Researchers studied over 3300 children with the Feeding Infants and Toddler Survey. Though these children have seen their diets improve over the past six years, results showed that they still consume too much saturated fat and not enough fruits or vegetables. From Atlanta - Small turtles still being sold in pet stores across the US are again being linked with a salmonella outbreak, according to a report published in the journal Pediatrics. Researchers noted that, during a 2007 salmonella outbreak, 107 infections involved the same salmonella strain. In fact, of the 78 patients interviewed, 60% reported coming in contact with a turtle shortly before their illness. Researchers maintain that children who handle turtles are at a 41 times increased risk of salmonella. And finally, from Philadelphia - According to a report presented at the American College of Rheumatology meeting, overweight people who lose moderate amount of weight are at a reduced risk of osteoarthritis of the knee. Researchers studied over 1,400 men and women 45 and older for up to six years. People who gained weight or maintained their weight were more likely to develop knee OA than people who lost even 5% of their weight Mon Oct 19 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88243 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88119 (October 16, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From the Czech Republic - According to a report published in The Lancet, giving infants acetaminophen may weaken their immune system's response to vaccination. Researchers studied two groups of infants--one that received frequent acetaminophen doses a day after vaccination while the other was given nothing. Children in the acetaminophen group showed a considerably weaker immune response to vaccination. From London - Kidney transplant patients are safe to undergo coronary angiography to assess the health of their heart prior to surgery, according to a report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Researchers studied 76 patients who had late stage chronic kidney disease and were candidates for transplant surgery. They found that kidney function was not noticeably affected before or after the angiography. And finally, from Australia - Scientists have been unable to pinpoint the precise health effects of smoking marijuana, according to research published in The Lancet. Researchers reviewed nearly 100 studies examining the effects of smoking marijuana. While they found a connection between THC blood levels and car crashes, they could not form a solid link between the drug and other health concerns such as schizophrenia. Fri Oct 16 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88119 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88042 (October 15, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients with advanced dementia should be considered to have a terminal illness. Researchers studied over 300 patients in various nursing homes who were suffering from advanced dementia. They found that the death rate of advanced dementia patients was nearly as high as some end-stage cancers.  From Atlanta - The CDC has updated their H1N1 protection guidelines for healthcare workers across the globe. Specifically, the CDC is recommending that healthcare workers use N95 respirators to best prevent transmission of the influenza. If these masks are not available, the CDC maintains that surgical masks can be used instead. And finally, from Michigan - According to a report published in the American Journal of Roentgenology, patients suffering from severe H1N1 flu are at increased risk of pulmonary embolism. Researchers studied imaging results of over 60 patients, 14 of whom required mechanical ventilation. Results showed that 5 of these patients suffered a pulmonary emboli, compared to none of the 52 patients with a less severe form of the flu. Thu Oct 15 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/88042 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87963 (October 14, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Denmark - According to a report published in the British Medical Journal, chemotherapy patients may see improvements in their fatigue and general well-being with exercise. Researchers studied over 250 cancer patients on 59 different chemotherapy regimens, placing the participants in a high intensity group exercise program. As a result, patients showed considerably less fatigue and improvements in their general well being. From Atlanta - Most patients being hospitalized with H1N1 flu also have other health conditions that raise their risk of complications, according to a preliminary analysis from the CDC. Researchers studied over 500 children and nearly 1,400 adults hospitalized with H1N1. They found common underlying conditions that included asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, and several blood disorders such as sickle-cell anemia. And finally, from Boston - Problems in the operating room arise more so from the surgeon's lack of sleep than long hours working, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers studied over 9,000 surgical and obstetrical procedures. Complication rates were much higher when the attending physician had less than a six hour opportunity for sleep the night before surgery. Wed Oct 14 20:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87963 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87842 (October 13, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - According to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, people who live in 'healthy' neighborhoods are at a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. For 5 years, researchers studied over 2,200 people aged 45 and older, adjusting for factors such as age, income, ethnicity, and education. They found that neighborhoods with easy access to healthy foods and opportunities for exercise had a 38% lower incidence rate of type 2 diabetes. From Australia - Older adults who suffer irreversible poor vision have an increased risk of mortality, according to a report published in the Archives of Ophthalmology. Researchers examined data from the Blue Mountain Eye Study--a study that looked at over 3600 Australians over the age of 49. Results showed that patients with uncorrectable vision were 35% more likely to die than those with unimpaired vision. And finally, from San Francisco - According to research presented at the 2009 ASCO Breast Cancer Symposium, women who carry hereditary BRCA mutations are being diagnosed with breast cancer earlier than ever before. Researchers studied over 100 families who carried BRCA mutations, analyzing 303 individuals over two generations. They found that women today are being diagnosed with breast cancer 6 years earlier than relatives of the previous generation who also had the disease. Tue Oct 13 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87842 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87733 (October 9, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Taiwan – According to a report published in the journal Stroke, adults with shingles are at increased risk of stroke. Researchers compared nearly 7, 800 adults treated for shingles with over 23,000 people who did not have the rash. They found that 1.7% of patients in the shingles group had a stroke a year after treatment, compared with only 1.3% who did not have the condition.   From the UK – The type of treatment a woman has after a miscarriage does not preclude her ability to have a child in the future, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers surveyed 3 groups of patients from the Miscarriage treatment trial--five years after the study was completed—each group having been treated differently following their miscarriage. Results showed no differences between the three groups; as 82% of the women went on to have a child after their miscarriage treatment.   And finally, from Utah – According to a report published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, chronic kidney disease patients improve their survival chances with regular exercise. Researchers used information from Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, examining data on over 15,000 participants--5.9% of whom had chronic kidney disease. Results showed that among this 5.9%, those who got the recommended amount of exercise per week had a 56% reduced risk of dying through a seven year follow up period. Fri Oct 09 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87733 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87368 (October 8, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From France - Low CD4 counts in HIV patients predicts an increased risk of seven types of cancer, according to a report published in The Lancet Oncology. Researchers examined the records of over 50, 000 HIV patients, looking specifically for the occurrence of three AIDS defining cancers as well as four non-AIDS defining cancers . Results showed that patients with immunodeficiency were more likely to get cancers such as Karposi sarcoma, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, cervical cancer and lung cancer, with a falling CD4 count being the best indicator of this susceptibility. From the UK - Convertibles may harm hearing, according to a report published in Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery. Researchers studied roadways in the UK, measuring the noise levels in convertibles at various speeds. They found that noise in convertibles regularly exceeded 85 decibels--widely believed to be the threshold for hearing loss. And finally, from Connecticut - According to a report published in the journal Stem Cells, scientists have made progress with an experimental stem cell vaccine against cancer. Researchers found that mice injected with human stem cells consistently develop an immune response to colon cancer cells. Since cancer cells and stem cells share several characteristics, the injection of human stem cells into the body tricks the immune system into fighting what it believes are cancer cells--thus preparing the body to better combat actual cancer cells. Thu Oct 08 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87368 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87369 (October 7, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From New York - According to a report published in the journal Health Affairs, even when fast food restaurants post the amount of calories in menu items, people do no appear to change their ordering habits. Researchers studied an area in New York City that was required by law to inform customers of calorie counts. They found that less than 28% of people polled said that these counts actually influenced their order. From Boston - People with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) should keep portable headphones at least 3 cm from their chest, according to a report published in the journal Heart Rhythm. Researchers studied 100 people with ICDs. They found that 30% of patients had a significant interruption of ICD function when headphones were held less than 2 cm from the surface of the skin. And finally, from Washington - According to a report released by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, eggs, leafy greens and tuna fish are the top three riskiest foods controlled by the Food and Drug Administration. The report, which did not assess meat as it is not regulated by the FDA, maintains that these three foods are responsible for over 27, 000 combined illnesses since 1990. Wed Oct 07 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87369 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87247 (October 6, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Houston – According to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, scientists have developed a vaccine successful against cocaine addiction. Researchers studied volunteer cocaine users for 12 weeks, administering either five shots of the vaccine or placebo. The vaccine, which works by creating antibodies that attach to the drug thus preventing it from providing a chemical high, was effective in 38% of users. The effect, however, wore off after a period of time and many volunteers returned to use. From Taiwan – Adolescents with ADHD or hostility problems are more likely to have an internet addiction, according to a report published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. Researchers studied over 2,000 children in the seventh grade for two years, asking questions gauging the youth’s internet use, ADHD, and emotional state. They found that those with ADHD were at 72% increased risk of having an internet addiction, while hostile youths had a 67% increased risk.   And finally, from Washington – Women who survive childhood cancer are at no major increased risk of complications during and after pregnancy, according to a report published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. Researchers studied cancer registries and birth records, analyzing data on over 1800 children born to mothers who had cancer before age 20. They found that these women had no significant increased risk for: complications during pregnancy, birth defects in newborns, or death in infancy. They were more likely, however, to have preterm and underweight babies.  Tue Oct 06 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87247 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87125 (October 5, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Washington - Autism diagnosis rates in the US have doubled in the last 2 years, according to a report published in the journal Pediatrics. Researchers surveyed 78, 000 parents, asking whether or not their children had ever been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Results showed that 1 in 91 parents said yes-- a 50% increase in the last two years. Researchers suggest that these numbers may, however, merely represent better detection of the condition. From Denmark - According to a report published in The Lancet, babies born today in developed countries will live longer, healthier lives than ever before. Researchers reviewed data from over 30 developed countries. In these countries, results showed that the likelihood of living past 80 has doubled in the past 60 years, and that more than 50% of babies born today will live to 100 years old.  And finally, from Atlanta - Children of obese women may be at increased risk of heart defects, according to a report in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.  Researchers analyzed over 12, 000 infants--over half of whom had congenital heart defects. They found that women who were overweight at the onset of pregnancy were 18% more likely to have a child born with a heart defect, while women who were severely obese had a 30% increased risk. Mon Oct 05 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/87125 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86826 (October 2, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From the UK – Scientists have discovered a gene in mice that may be responsible for aging, according to a report published in the journal Science. Researchers modified mice so that their bodies would not produce a protein called S6K1, in an effort to mimic the effect that dieting would have on the body. Results showed that genetically modified female mice lived 19% longer than mice that still had the gene.   From California – According to a report in the American Journal of Managed Care, a simple combination of three heart medications significantly cuts risk of heart attack and stroke. Researchers studied over 68,000 people with diabetes or heart disease, administering 40 mg of lovastatin, 20 mg of lisinopril and low dose aspirin. Results showed that the combination reduced risk of stroke or heart attack by nearly 60%. And finally, from London – According to a report in the journal Ophthalmology, vision problems in middle age could have adverse affects on health and lifestyle. Researchers studied over 9,000 44 and 45 year olds using the 1958 British birth cohort study. They found that various forms of visual impairment were linked with low socioeconomic status, self-reported health problems and missed days at work due to sickness.     Fri Oct 02 20:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86826 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86743 (October 1, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From the UK - Women who smoke while pregnant put their children at increased risk for developing psychotic symptoms, according to a report published in the British Journal of Psychiatry. Researchers studied over 6,000 children, over 11% of whom had, at 12 years old, clearly demonstrated symptoms of psychosis. Results showed that children were more likely to develop these symptoms if their mother smoked during pregnancy, the risk increasing significantly the more the mother smoked. From Michigan - According to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, care of postoperative complications determines a hospitals surgical death rate as much as the complications themselves. Researchers examined over 80, 000 people who underwent surgery in different US hospitals. There was little difference between the hospitals overall rate of complications, but the difference between the lowest and highest surgical death rate was twofold. These results suggest that hospital's surgical death rates vary as a result of differences in how complications are treated. And finally, from Philadelphia - Adolescent boys with metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of liver disease, according to a report published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. Researchers studied over 1,300 boys aged 12-19. They found that obese teenaged boys had increased liver enzyme levels--levels that were connected to metabolic syndrome more-so than obesity--and thus, were more likely to suffer liver disease. Thu Oct 01 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86743 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86603 (September 30, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - Women who do not gain excessive weight between age 18 and 50 are more likely to be healthy in old age, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers studied over 17, 000 women participating in the 30 year, ongoing, Nurses Health Study. They found that women who were obese at middle age were 79% more likely to be unhealthy later in life. From Australia - Marijuana use can put one at risk for psychosis, according to a report published in the journal PLoS Medicine. Researchers reviewed several studies connecting marijuana to psychotic disorders. While the link was tenuous, results showed that marijuana users had an increased risk of psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia.  As a result, researchers  added the drug to the Global Burden of Disease Project along with other controllable risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, obesity and alcohol use. And finally, from the UK - According to a report published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, children with working mothers may be less healthy than children whose mothers stay at home. Researchers studied over 12, 000 schoolchildren and their families, adjusting for factors such as income, age, and ethnic differences. Results showed that children with working mothers were likely to eat and drink more sweets and also watched more TV than children with stay-at-home moms. Wed Sep 30 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86603 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86506 (September 29, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - Obese people who suffer from sleep apnea may see their sleep improve with weight loss, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Researchers divided 264 obese adults with type 2 diabetes into two groups. The first group received weight loss consultation and participated in an exercise program, while the second group only participated in a diabetes management program. After a year, the first group lost an average of 24 lbs and were three times more likely to see remission of their sleep apnea symptoms. From Boston - According to a report published in Arthritis Care & Research, women  may suffer foot pain depending on the type of shoe they wear. Researchers studied over 3,000 men and women participating in the Framingham study. They found that, while there was no connection between men's footwear and foot pain, 64% of women who wore sandals, high heels or pumps regularly reported pain in their feet. And finally, from Italy - According to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, worsening heart failure patients may benefit from at-home care. Researchers studied patients over 75 years of age who suffered from chronic heart failure. Though their death rates were the same as patients treated in-hospital, patients treated with 'hospital-at-home' care appeared to be less depressed and had better quality of life and nutritional status. Tue Sep 29 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86506 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86422 (September 28, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From New York - According to a report published in the journal Cancer, more and more women are turning to prophylactic mastectomy--a preventive procedure for high risk breast cancer patients that removes the unaffected breast. Researchers studied data from New York's cancer registry, analyzing over 69,000 cases. They found that from 1995 to 2005 the amount of prophylactic mastectomies more than doubled. From Denmark - Women who take antidepressants during pregnancy put their babies at a small increased risk of heart defects, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal. Danish researchers studied nearly 500, 000 babies born between 1996 and 2003. They found that babies born to women who took an SSRI during the first trimester were at a .4% increased risk of having a septal heart defect. And finally, from the Netherlands - The presence of an autoimmune condition called lupus anticoagulant (LA) in young women dramatically increases their risk of stroke and heart attack, according to a report published in the journal Lancet Neurology. Researchers studied over 1,000 women under the age of 50, analyzing their blood samples and cardiovascular risk factors. They found that women with LA had a five times increased risk of heart attack and 40 times increased risk of stroke. Results also showed that oral contraceptives and smoking added significantly to this risk. ... Mon Sep 28 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86422 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86166 (September 25, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Michigan - According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, injected vaccines are more effective than nasal spray vaccines.  Researchers studied nearly 2,000 adults age 18-49, randomly assigning participants to either a vaccine injection or a vaccine nasal spray. Results showed that the vaccination injection was 50% more effective at preventing influenza than the nasal spray. From Chicago- Fructose causes high blood pressure but a gout medication can control it, according to a report to be presented at the American Heart Association meeting.  Researchers examined how a diet of 200 grams of fructose per day would affect nearly 80 men. While on this diet, half of the participants took allopurinol and the other half took placebo.  Those who took placebo had a significant increase in systolic blood pressure, while those allopurinol experienced practically no change. And finally, from the UK - Many men with prostate cancer do not need immediate treatment, according to a report published in the British Journal of Cancer. Researchers studied 4,000 men with prostate cancer for 15 years. They found a protein in the cancer cells called Hsp-27--a protein that, when expressed, indicated the disease would progress and required immediate intervention. In 60% of cases, however, this protein was not expressed and these men only required careful monitoring. Fri Sep 25 19:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86166 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86167 (September 24, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Thailand – An experimental vaccine has shown success in preventing HIV infection for the first time, according to research from an expansive six year trial.  Researchers studied over 16, 000 men and women aged 18-30 for six years. They combined ALVAC with AIDSVAX to make their vaccine. Results showed that those who received a series of inoculation shots as well as a booster vaccine were at a 31% reduced risk of getting HIV.   From Germany – According to a report presented at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics meeting, patients commonly suffer silent strokes when undergoing percutaneous aortic valve replacement. Researchers studied 32 patients, conducting neurological exams as well as MRIs before and after the operation. They found that 80% of these patients had new lesions on their brain, though these were 'silent' strokes that did not produce any functional consequences.   And finally, from Washington – The United States must be more cognizant of disease in animals, according to a report from the Institute of Medicine and the National Research Council. In order to prevent species-jumping pathogens, researchers now recommend that health authorities properly monitor animals and quickly contain any potential outbreaks that occur. Pathogens that originate in animals are typically problematic because the human immune system is inexperienced at fighting them. Thu Sep 24 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/86167 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85938 (September 23, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From London - Influenza can increase heart attack risk, according to a report published in the journal The Lancet Infectious Diseases.   Researchers analyzed nearly 50 studies dating back to 1932, examining the connection between influenza outbreaks and cardiovascular death.  Of the influenza deaths that occurred, 35-50% could be attributed to heart problems. The study also suggests that flu vaccination could help protect people with existing heart conditions. From Minnesota - According to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, distressed residents are more likely to make medical mistakes . Researchers surveyed nearly 400 internal medicine residents for 5 years, asking questions regarding their medical mistakes and their physical and emotional state. Fatigue, sleepiness, depression, and burnout were common characteristics among the residents who reported making at least one major mistake. And finally, from Chicago - According to a report published in the journal Pediatrics, most emergency departments in the United States are not adequately equipped to treat children. Using 2006 guidelines from the Institute of Medicine, researchers examined 3,800 emergency rooms. They found that 96% of ER departments were ill equipped to care for children, as they lacked both specialized equipment and specialized expertise. Wed Sep 23 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85938 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85939 (September 22, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From San Francisco - Banning smoking in public places cuts heart attack rates by one third, according to a report published in the journal Circulation. Researchers analyzed several studies that looked at smoking bans in the US, Canada and Europe. After one year of bans, heart attack rates dropped by 17% and within three years, they dropped by 36%. From Los Angeles - According to a report published in the Archives of Surgery, alcohol may prevent people with serious head injuries from dying. Researchers studied the cases of over 35, 000 patients who had suffered a moderate to severe head injury and had been tested for alcohol when they initially arrived at the hospital. Patients who had detectable blood alcohol levels were 12% less likely to die, though they were also at a 24% increased risk of developing complications from the injury. And finally, from Norway - Pregnant women who exercise may be at a reduced risk of having an overweight baby, according to a report published in Obstetrics & Gynecology. Researchers examined data collected from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort study--a study of over 37, 000 women having their first child. Those who exercised while pregnant were at a 28% reduced risk of having a child over 8.8 lbs. Tue Sep 22 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85939 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85636 (September 21, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From the UK - According to the 2009 World Alzheimer Report released by Alzheimer's Disease International, Alzheimer's disease is steadily on the rise. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 150 countries around the world. They found that  35.6 million people will suffer from dementia by 2010, a number that represents a 10% increase in the last 5 years. From the Netherlands - Human error is the main cause of mistakes made in the emergency department, according to a report published in the journal BMC Medicine. Dutch researchers studied the unintended events that occurred in 10 different emergency departments, analyzing the root cause of every error. 60% of root causes were human, while 25% were organizational and only 11% were technical. 45% of adverse events, however, merely resulted in inconvenience for the patient. And finally, from Alabama - According to a report published in the journal Neurology, people 45 and older who have high blood pressure may be at increased risk of having memory problems. Researchers studied almost 20, 000 people aged 45 and older; 7% of whom had memory problems.  They found that, within this 7%, nearly 50% of patients were on medication for high blood pressure. Mon Sep 21 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85636 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85637 (September 18, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Cambridge - People without health insurance face significantly increased risk of death, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Researchers undertook a survival analysis of data taken from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey--a survey that examined 9,000 adults under 64 years of age for 8 years--adjusting for factors such as lifestyle and baseline health. Results showed that people without insurance face a 40% increased risk of death. From Cleveland - According to a report published online in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, weight loss could help obese people who have kidney disease preserve the function of their kidneys.  Researchers analyzed 13 studies that examined obese adults who lost weight through either exercise, diet, or surgery. Those who lost weight through diet and exercise reduced the amount of excess protein excreted in their urine, while surgical weight loss normalized abnormally high waste filtration rates--a risk factor for kidney disease. And finally, from Mississippi - Binge drinking temporarily weakens the immune system, according to a report published in the journal BMC Immunology. Researchers gave mice water that was laced with ethanol. They found that, for at least 24 hours following the dosage, the production of signaling molecules essential to the immune system were inhibited, thereby weakening the body's ability to fight infections. Fri Sep 18 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85637 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85439 (September 17, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Taiwan - According to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, newborns vaccinated against hepatitis B have significantly reduced risk of liver cancer later in life. Researchers from Taiwan followed vaccinated infants for 20 years. They found that children vaccinated against Hep B were at nearly 70% reduced risk of developing liver cancer in early adulthood. From San Francisco - Disposable surgical masks do not effectively block respiratory infections, according to a report presented at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. Researchers studied nearly 2,000 health care workers randomly assigned to wear either disposable surgical masks, fit tested N95 masks or non-fit tested N95 masks. N95 masks were 56% effective against respiratory infections, 75% against the flu in particular, while disposable surgical masks offered little protection at all. And finally, from the UK - Early exposure to even small amounts of lead can put a child at risk for emotional and intellectual problems later in life, according to a report published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood. Researchers took blood samples from over 500 2 year olds, assessing their school performance at ages 7 and 8. They found that children who had higher lead levels at age two had poorer reading, writing and spelling grades 5 years later and were more likely to demonstrate antisocial behavior. Thu Sep 17 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85439 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85341 From Kansas City - African American patients who suffer a cardiac arrest while being hospitalized are more likely to die than Caucasians, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.  Researchers used information from the National Registry of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, analyzing survival disparities between Caucasian and African Americans who suffered an in-hosital cardiac arrest. African Americans had a 25% survival rate compared to 37% for Caucasians.  From Colorado - According to research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, dirty shower heads can put your health at risk. American researchers went to 50 houses in nine different cities, inspecting shower-heads specifically. They found significant levels of Mycobacterium Avium--a type of bacteria that, when swallowed or inhaled, is capable of causing lung infections. And finally, from San Francisco - The H1N1 influenza is more contagious than previously thought, according a report presented at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. Researchers studied nearly 50 people with H1N1 and the members of their homes. They found that after eight days, 45-75% still tested positively on flu tests, and 19% were still shedding germs capable of infecting others. As a result, scientists recommend that H1N1 patients be isolated for 7-10 days.   Wed Sep 16 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85341 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85081 (September 15, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Michigan - According to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, female heart failure patients may not benefit from implantable defibrillators. Researchers studied several different heart studies from the past 60 years, analyzing data on nearly 1, 000 women who suffered advance heart failure.  They found that women who had heart failure and had ICD's had no survival advantage over those without the device. From Atlanta - Most adult Americans are at risk for developing heart disease, according to a report published in the journal Circulation. Researchers collected data from decades of national health surveys, looking for the percentage of adults who had 5 low risk factors for heart disease; low cholesterol, no smoking history, good blood pressure, healthy weight and no diabetes. In 1994, 10.5% of adults had these factors and were at low-risk for heart disease, whereas in 2004, only 7.5% were at low risk. These numbers represent a sharp decline after decades of progress against heart disease risk factors. And finally, from Vancouver - According to a report published online in the journal Cancer, clinically depressed cancer patients may have an increased risk of mortality. Researchers investigated 32 different studies-- a total of nearly 12, 000 patients--analyzing the connection between depression and cancer mortality. Patients with symptoms of depression were at 25% increased mortality risk, while patients with clinically diagnosed depression were at an increased risk of 40%. Tue Sep 15 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85081 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85082 (September 14, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Washington – Scientists have discovered that Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can be found in public beaches and ocean waters, according to a report presented at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. Researchers found Staph bacteria on 9 of the 10 beaches that they studied in Puget Sound; over 50% of these samples were multidrug resistant. This study suggests that public beaches may be a source for transmission of MRSA.   From Australia – According to a report published in the journal Hepatology, aerobic exercise lowers the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Researchers studied 19 obese adults with sedentary lifestyles for four weeks. They found that regular cycling exercise resulted in 21% reduction of hepatic triglyceride concentration and a 12% reduction in visceral adipose tissue volume. These reductions occurred even if the participant did not lose any weight.   And finally, from Washington – The FDA has approved the use of OVA1, a blood test used to discern between ovarian tumors and benign pelvic masses. The test, to be available later this year, showed a sensitivity of 85% to 96% in finding malignant masses. This test should help prevent otherwise unnecessary exploratory surgery. Mon Sep 14 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/85082 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84799 (September 11, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Australia - Young people have a very high risk for mortality, according to a report published in The Lancet. Studying global death rate statistics, researchers found that 2.6 million youths aged 10 to 24 are dying each year and that most of these deaths are preventable. 97% of these deaths occurred in low-to-middle income countries, while almost 40% occurred as a result of accidents or violence, specifically, war. From London - Unhappy children are more likely to become overweight later in life, according to a report published in the journal BMC Medicine. Researchers examined over 6,500 individuals who had participated in the 1970 British Birth Cohort study, measuring each persons weight and height at age 10 and again at age 30. Participants were also questioned on their emotional state. Results showed that those who had low self-esteem and worried excessively as children were more likely to be obese as adults. And finally, from Indianapolis -  Doctors feel additional stress when they have to work with a patient's surrogate decision maker, according to a report published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.  Researchers studied nearly 300 doctors, 3/4 of which had dealt with surrogates shortly before the study began. 25% of doctors reported feeling significant stress working with surrogates. Ineffective communication and dissatisfaction with outcome of the decisions were the primary reasons cited for this stress. Fri Sep 11 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84799 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84647 (September 10, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From The Netherlands - According to research published in the journal BMC Family Practice, patients with upper gastrointestinal disorders are more likely to experience other illnesses as well. Researchers analyzed information on over 26, 000 people who had participated in a 2001 Dutch survey regarding  patient presentations to primary care physicians. They found that patients with upper GI disorders visited their doctors twice as often as patients without these problems. From Sweden - The sound of traffic may increase the risk of high blood pressure, according to a report published in the journal Environmental Health. Swedish researchers surveyed over 24, 000 adults, gathering data regarding the average road noise near the participant's homes. Results showed that exposure to 60 decibels of traffic noise was strongly associated with hypertension. According to the report, most city people are exposed to at least 55 decibels of road noise. And finally, from Scotland - Researchers have identified the DNA information of the bacteria that caused the great potato famine in Ireland in the mid 1800s, according to a report published in the journal Nature. Scientists discovered that this pathogen--known as late blight--has a genome size that is twice as big as related species, an aspect that enables it to rapidly evolve and quickly destroy entire crops of its plant hosts. Late blight ravaged crops in Ireland in the 1850s, causing mass starvation, famine, and emigration. Thu Sep 10 23:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84647 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84525 (September 9, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From New York - According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, a missing protein in the brain's reward center may be responsible for symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using positron emission tomography, researchers compared the brain scans of 53 adults with ADHD to 44 adults without the condition. Those with ADHD had lower levels of dopamine in their brain--proteins that are responsible for stimulation of reward and motivation. From Seattle - Smoking, obesity and alcohol consumption significantly increase a woman's risk of developing a second breast cancer, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Researchers studied over 1,000 women who were diagnosed with primary estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer; 365 of these women developed a second breast cancer. Obese women had an increased risk of 50%; women who drank at least one alcoholic drink a day had an increased risk of 90%; and finally, current smokers were at an increased risk of 120%. And finally, from Washington - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people who get the flu this season will not require drugs. In an effort to prevent overuse of Tamiflu and Relenza, CDC officials are advocating that those with the flu should be carefully watched. Only those with severe illnesses or risk factors such as asthma and obesity are to be treated with antiviral medications. Wed Sep 09 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84525 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84430 (September 8, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From New York - Scientists have identified a virus that may increase a mans risk of prostate cancer, according to research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers compared over 200 prostate cancer tumors to 101 non-cancerous prostate tissue samples. They found that 27% of the tumors contained the virus XMRV--a virus that is known to cause other types of cancer in animals--compared to only 6% of the benign samples. From The Netherlands - New research suggests that the 'hygiene hypothesis'--a theory that maintains that early exposure to infections through daycare reduces ones risk of later illness--is false, according to a report published by the American Thoracic Society. Dutch researchers studied the respiratory symptoms of 4,000 children for the first eight years of their life. Results showed no beneficial or harmful effects of daycare--children who attended early were just as likely to wheeze later in life as those who did not. And finally, from the UK - Infections outside of the brain may increase an elderly persons risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, according to a report published in the journal Neurology. Researchers studied over 200 elderly patients for a six month period; just over 100 of the patients developed different infections in places such as the chest, stomach, intestines and urinary tract. Those who developed these infections suffered memory loss twice as fast as patients who did not get infected or injured. Tue Sep 08 21:00:00 +0200 2009 http://vodcast.gmx.net/channel/view/313-insidermedicine-daily-news-video/84430