According to a new study, a low and mixed-carb sports drink with added protein leads to increased endurance in trained female athletes. The study appeared in the April issue of The Journal off Strength and Conditioning Research.
Most standard performance enhancement drinks are single-carb and researchers said the results indicate that adding protein and mixing carbohydrates are indeed better for performance. Fourteen trained female cyclists and triathletes participated in the study where they performed an intense cycling session until exhaustion after a three-hour ride. Some women received the standard single-carb drink while others received the mixed-carb drink with added protein.
The women who drank the mixed-carb drink plus protein drink experienced a significantly longer time to exhaustion than those consumed the standard single-carb drink – 50 minutes compared to 42 minutes, respectively. Therefore, the mixed-carb plus protein drink increased endurance performance by around 15 percent, researchers reported.
Many studies have shown that beverages containing carbohydrates increase endurance and performance and this research was conducted in an effort to create a more effective supplement. Instead of using the standard carbohydrate used in performance enhancement supplements (dextrose), the researchers combined three carbohydrates – glucose, fructose and maltodextrin.
The mixed-carb plus protein supplement "improved performance despite containing 50 percent lower carbohydrate content and approximately 30 percent fewer calories," study leader, Erin, L. McCleave and co-authors concluded. "This may be an important consideration for those individuals concerned about body weight and caloric intake."
Sunday, April 24, 2011
News Article: Parents’ Verbal Stumbling Helps Toddlers Learn New Words
If you are a parent who worries you may be setting a bad example for your toddler when you use words like “um” and “uh,” think again. A study from the University of Rochester’s Baby Lab indicates these verbal stumbles, technically referred to as disfluencies, can actually help toddlers learn new words more efficiently.
For example, if you are about to introduce a new word to your toddler and you point to an object and say “look at this, um, uh…,” while stumbling for the correct word, you are sending the message to your child that you are about to teach him or her something new, researchers found. This causes the child to pay extra attention as you fumble for the right word.
“The more predictions a listener can make about what is being communicated, the more efficiently the listener can understand it,” one of the authors, Richard Aslin said.
Three groups of children between the ages of 18 and 30 months were studied. Each child sat in front of a monitor with an eye-tracking device on his or her parent’s lap. Images appeared on the screen in front of them and a recorded voice talked about the images using simple sentences.
When the voice stumbled and said “look at the uh…” children were much more likely to look at the image than when the voice presented an image fluently. In fact children looked up at the images presented with disfluencies nearly 70 percent of the time. This effect was only significant in children older than two years however, researchers reported.
When a child’s brain hears a new word without preface and then has to try and figure out its meaning after the fact, it becomes more difficult for them to learn the word, Aslin explained. The child is also more apt to miss what comes next, he added.
“We’re not advocating that parents add disfluencies to their speech, but I think it’s nice for them to know that using these verbal pauses is OK – the “uh’s” and “um’s” are informative,” said the study’s lead author.
For example, if you are about to introduce a new word to your toddler and you point to an object and say “look at this, um, uh…,” while stumbling for the correct word, you are sending the message to your child that you are about to teach him or her something new, researchers found. This causes the child to pay extra attention as you fumble for the right word.
“The more predictions a listener can make about what is being communicated, the more efficiently the listener can understand it,” one of the authors, Richard Aslin said.
Three groups of children between the ages of 18 and 30 months were studied. Each child sat in front of a monitor with an eye-tracking device on his or her parent’s lap. Images appeared on the screen in front of them and a recorded voice talked about the images using simple sentences.
When the voice stumbled and said “look at the uh…” children were much more likely to look at the image than when the voice presented an image fluently. In fact children looked up at the images presented with disfluencies nearly 70 percent of the time. This effect was only significant in children older than two years however, researchers reported.
When a child’s brain hears a new word without preface and then has to try and figure out its meaning after the fact, it becomes more difficult for them to learn the word, Aslin explained. The child is also more apt to miss what comes next, he added.
“We’re not advocating that parents add disfluencies to their speech, but I think it’s nice for them to know that using these verbal pauses is OK – the “uh’s” and “um’s” are informative,” said the study’s lead author.
News Article: Researchers Explore and Explain “Food Addiction”
Some people can become addicted to food in the same way an alcoholic or drug addict becomes addicted a substance, according to a new study appearing in Archives of General Psychiatry. Not only did researchers discover an association between addictive-like eating behaviors and neural activity; they also found out what makes certain foods addictive.
The study investigated 48 young women varying from lean to obese. They discovered that women who exhibited greater addictive behaviors towards food also had greater neural activity in the brain regions associated with substance dependence.
“We have no doubt that certain foods are addictive,” said study author, Dian Griesel, Ph.D, “The real question is, ‘What is it that makes these foods so addictive?’”
Researchers attribute these addictive reactions to the refined, un-natural foods that people have been increasingly exposed to over the last 40 years. Our bodies are perfectly able to consume and process natural foods, it is the un-natural, man-made foods that cause problems, the authors claim. These refined, modern foods are deliberately designed to be addictive, researchers explain.
“The rise of obesity and other modern diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides and hypoglycemia, to name a few—along with so-called ‘food addiction’—are all the end result of consuming too many of these ‘engineered’ modern foods in our daily diets,” the authors said.
Researchers conclude that refined and processed foods are dangerous for our health, especially to those who are more prone to becoming addicted to them. The authors suggest satisfying sweet cravings with the natural foods that humans were designed to eat such as fruit.
The study investigated 48 young women varying from lean to obese. They discovered that women who exhibited greater addictive behaviors towards food also had greater neural activity in the brain regions associated with substance dependence.
“We have no doubt that certain foods are addictive,” said study author, Dian Griesel, Ph.D, “The real question is, ‘What is it that makes these foods so addictive?’”
Researchers attribute these addictive reactions to the refined, un-natural foods that people have been increasingly exposed to over the last 40 years. Our bodies are perfectly able to consume and process natural foods, it is the un-natural, man-made foods that cause problems, the authors claim. These refined, modern foods are deliberately designed to be addictive, researchers explain.
“The rise of obesity and other modern diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides and hypoglycemia, to name a few—along with so-called ‘food addiction’—are all the end result of consuming too many of these ‘engineered’ modern foods in our daily diets,” the authors said.
Researchers conclude that refined and processed foods are dangerous for our health, especially to those who are more prone to becoming addicted to them. The authors suggest satisfying sweet cravings with the natural foods that humans were designed to eat such as fruit.
News Article: Immediate Breast Implant After Mastectomy Shows Success
A new study shows that immediate placement of breast implants after undergoing a mastectomy for breast cancer may be a valuable reconstructive option for some women. The study was published in the April issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Though authors acknowledge this reconstructive method may not be appropriate for all women, they found immediate implant-based reconstruction produced “very good aesthetic results” and a low complication rate, overall, according to Dr. Christopher A. Crisera and his colleagues of the University of California Los Angeles.
Crisera and co-authors reported the results of immediate implant placement in 35 women undergoing mastectomies. The women’s average age was 45 and most underwent a double mastectomy, having both breasts immediately reconstructed. In the procedures, silicone-gel implants were immediately placed after the mastectomies.
The results of the procedures were assessed 15 months later. Six of the 35 women (16.6 percent) had some kind of complication, but only one of these complications was serious enough to result in the removal of the implant. Thirty-seven percent of the women required additional surgery. Aesthetic results, rated on a scale from 1 to 4, averaged at 3.19.
Compared with other methods of reconstruction after mastectomy, immediate implant placement offers several possible advantages, authors said. Immediate reconstruction can reduce the need for multiple surgical procedures and associated costs, lessen some psychological distress related to mastectomies, and reduce hospital days and costs. In the study, the average hospital stay was less than two days.
"We believe that the possible advantages of immediate single stage implant based reconstruction, such as the potential to complete reconstruction with fewer operations and in less time and cost warrant its use in the appropriately selected patient,” Dr. Crisera and co-authors concluded.
Though authors acknowledge this reconstructive method may not be appropriate for all women, they found immediate implant-based reconstruction produced “very good aesthetic results” and a low complication rate, overall, according to Dr. Christopher A. Crisera and his colleagues of the University of California Los Angeles.
Crisera and co-authors reported the results of immediate implant placement in 35 women undergoing mastectomies. The women’s average age was 45 and most underwent a double mastectomy, having both breasts immediately reconstructed. In the procedures, silicone-gel implants were immediately placed after the mastectomies.
The results of the procedures were assessed 15 months later. Six of the 35 women (16.6 percent) had some kind of complication, but only one of these complications was serious enough to result in the removal of the implant. Thirty-seven percent of the women required additional surgery. Aesthetic results, rated on a scale from 1 to 4, averaged at 3.19.
Compared with other methods of reconstruction after mastectomy, immediate implant placement offers several possible advantages, authors said. Immediate reconstruction can reduce the need for multiple surgical procedures and associated costs, lessen some psychological distress related to mastectomies, and reduce hospital days and costs. In the study, the average hospital stay was less than two days.
"We believe that the possible advantages of immediate single stage implant based reconstruction, such as the potential to complete reconstruction with fewer operations and in less time and cost warrant its use in the appropriately selected patient,” Dr. Crisera and co-authors concluded.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
News Article: Those Who Feel More Secure Place Less Value on their Possessions
New research from the University of New Hampshire has found that people who are more secure (those who feel loved and accepted by others) place less monetary value on their possessions. The research was featured in an article in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology.
The researchers defined security as feeling acceptance and love from others and measured how much participants valued certain items, such as a blanket and pen. People who did not feel secure placed values up to five teams greater than those who were secure on certain items.
Study leader Edward Lemay pointed to a major reason why people value possessions; they can offer a sense of protection, insurance, and comfort. However, feeling loved and accepted by others also offers a great sense protection, insurance and comfort, Lemay explained. Therefore those who lack security in the emotional sense are more likely to cling to their material possessions.
“These findings seem particularly relevant to understanding why people may hang onto goods that are no longer useful,” Lemay said.
Lemay and his colleagues believe their study’s results can be used to help individuals with hoarding disorders.
The researchers defined security as feeling acceptance and love from others and measured how much participants valued certain items, such as a blanket and pen. People who did not feel secure placed values up to five teams greater than those who were secure on certain items.
Study leader Edward Lemay pointed to a major reason why people value possessions; they can offer a sense of protection, insurance, and comfort. However, feeling loved and accepted by others also offers a great sense protection, insurance and comfort, Lemay explained. Therefore those who lack security in the emotional sense are more likely to cling to their material possessions.
“These findings seem particularly relevant to understanding why people may hang onto goods that are no longer useful,” Lemay said.
Lemay and his colleagues believe their study’s results can be used to help individuals with hoarding disorders.
News Article: Technologies Like Skype May be Used to Treat Anxiety Disorders
An estimated one fourth of Americans suffer from an anxiety disorder, and of those, 2.2 million suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), which can be particularly debilitating, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Two Drexel professors claim that the solution to this urgent medical need can be found in using home videoconferencing tools like Skype for therapy.
Despite the prevalence of anxiety disorders, many medical professionals are unsure of how to deliver effective, non-medication treatments and many patients do not have access to the care they need. According to the directors of Drexel’s Anxiety Treatment and Research Program, Dr. James Herbert and Dr. Evan Forman, user-friendly and low-cost videoconferencing technologies can help to solve this problem, especially for those who are otherwise unable to access psychological help.
OCD is a serious disorder that accounts for about $8.4 billion per year in social and economic losses in the United States. Herbert, Forman, and Drexel doctoral student, Elizabeth Goetter designed and have begun to employ therapies for OCD patients through Skype. The Drexel researchers believe that technologies like Skype have the potential to revolutionize how therapy is administered, especially in cases such as OCD, where patients require highly specialized mental health therapies.
Videoconferencing therapy is more convenient, cost-effective, and can make quality mental health care more widely available to individuals who need it, researchers say. Also, researchers add, the rapidly evolving nature of these technologies makes them increasingly practical means to treat patients with anxiety disorders.
Despite the prevalence of anxiety disorders, many medical professionals are unsure of how to deliver effective, non-medication treatments and many patients do not have access to the care they need. According to the directors of Drexel’s Anxiety Treatment and Research Program, Dr. James Herbert and Dr. Evan Forman, user-friendly and low-cost videoconferencing technologies can help to solve this problem, especially for those who are otherwise unable to access psychological help.
OCD is a serious disorder that accounts for about $8.4 billion per year in social and economic losses in the United States. Herbert, Forman, and Drexel doctoral student, Elizabeth Goetter designed and have begun to employ therapies for OCD patients through Skype. The Drexel researchers believe that technologies like Skype have the potential to revolutionize how therapy is administered, especially in cases such as OCD, where patients require highly specialized mental health therapies.
Videoconferencing therapy is more convenient, cost-effective, and can make quality mental health care more widely available to individuals who need it, researchers say. Also, researchers add, the rapidly evolving nature of these technologies makes them increasingly practical means to treat patients with anxiety disorders.
News Article: The Sound of Infidelity
Women perceive men with lower pitched voices to be more likely to cheat whereas men perceive women with higher pitched voices to be more likely to cheat, according to a unique new study. The study was the first to investigate the relationship between voice pitch and perceptions of infidelity and was published in the most recent edition of the online journal, Evolutionary Psychology.
“In terms of sexual strategy, we found that men and women will use voice pitch as a warning sign of future betrayal,” lead author, Jillian O’Connor, said.
Study participants listened to two recorded clips of higher and lower pitched male and female voices. They were then asked which would be more likely to be sexually unfaithful to their romantic partner. Most women pointed to the male with the lower pitched voice whereas most men pointed to the woman with the higher pitched voice as more likely to be unfaithful.
The study suggests that humans have learned through the evolutionary process to avoid partners who may be unfaithful in the future using voice pitch as a cue, O’Connor said.
Assistant professor and advisor of the study, David Feinberg, said these perceptions are likely due to the links between pitch, hormones and infidelity.
“Men with higher testosterone levels have lower pitched voices, and women with higher estrogen levels have higher pitched voices,” Feinberg explained. “High levels of these hormones are associated with adulterous behavior and our findings indicate individuals are somewhat aware of the link and may use this in their search for a romantic partner.”
“In terms of sexual strategy, we found that men and women will use voice pitch as a warning sign of future betrayal,” lead author, Jillian O’Connor, said.
Study participants listened to two recorded clips of higher and lower pitched male and female voices. They were then asked which would be more likely to be sexually unfaithful to their romantic partner. Most women pointed to the male with the lower pitched voice whereas most men pointed to the woman with the higher pitched voice as more likely to be unfaithful.
The study suggests that humans have learned through the evolutionary process to avoid partners who may be unfaithful in the future using voice pitch as a cue, O’Connor said.
Assistant professor and advisor of the study, David Feinberg, said these perceptions are likely due to the links between pitch, hormones and infidelity.
“Men with higher testosterone levels have lower pitched voices, and women with higher estrogen levels have higher pitched voices,” Feinberg explained. “High levels of these hormones are associated with adulterous behavior and our findings indicate individuals are somewhat aware of the link and may use this in their search for a romantic partner.”
News Article: Consuming Omega-3 During Pregnancy May Reduce Postpartum Depression Risk
A new study suggests that pregnant women who consume omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy can benefit their own health greatly as well as their infant’s. A correlation between consumption of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a common type of omega-3 fatty acid, and reduced risk of postpartum depression symptoms was drawn. In addition, maternal consumption of DHA during pregnancy has shown to deliver developmental advantages to infants even nine months after birth.
Omega-3 acids are derived from oily fish such as salmon and herring. Dr. Michelle Price Judge of the University of Connecticut School of Nursing oversaw the randomized study, which involved 52 pregnant women. The participants took either a placebo (corn oil) capsule or a fish oil capsule containing 300 milligrams of DHA (the equivalent of about half a serving of salmon) for five days per week from 24-40 weeks of pregnancy.
The Postpartum Depression Screening scale was used to measure symptoms associated with the disorder such as sleeping/eating disturbances, anxiety, emotional issues, confusion, loss of self, guilt, and thought of suicide. Though researchers acknowledge that a larger scale study is needed in order to definitively draw a link between omega-3 acid consumption during pregnancy and reduced risk of postpartum depression, women who consumed the fish oil capsules experienced significantly fewer symptoms related to postpartum depression than those who took the placebo.
“DHA consumption during pregnancy – at levels that are reasonably attained from foods – has the potential to decrease symptoms of postpartum depression,” Judge concluded.
These findings are important because an estimated 25 percent of new mothers are affected by postpartum depression, according to some experts. The consequences of the disorder can be devastating for both mothers and their families.
Researchers suggest pregnant women eat at least a serving of a high omega-3 fish at least twice a week to obtain the greatest possible benefit. Although fish oil supplements are also acceptable, an actual fish itself will offer more nutritional benefits, researchers say.
Omega-3 acids are derived from oily fish such as salmon and herring. Dr. Michelle Price Judge of the University of Connecticut School of Nursing oversaw the randomized study, which involved 52 pregnant women. The participants took either a placebo (corn oil) capsule or a fish oil capsule containing 300 milligrams of DHA (the equivalent of about half a serving of salmon) for five days per week from 24-40 weeks of pregnancy.
The Postpartum Depression Screening scale was used to measure symptoms associated with the disorder such as sleeping/eating disturbances, anxiety, emotional issues, confusion, loss of self, guilt, and thought of suicide. Though researchers acknowledge that a larger scale study is needed in order to definitively draw a link between omega-3 acid consumption during pregnancy and reduced risk of postpartum depression, women who consumed the fish oil capsules experienced significantly fewer symptoms related to postpartum depression than those who took the placebo.
“DHA consumption during pregnancy – at levels that are reasonably attained from foods – has the potential to decrease symptoms of postpartum depression,” Judge concluded.
These findings are important because an estimated 25 percent of new mothers are affected by postpartum depression, according to some experts. The consequences of the disorder can be devastating for both mothers and their families.
Researchers suggest pregnant women eat at least a serving of a high omega-3 fish at least twice a week to obtain the greatest possible benefit. Although fish oil supplements are also acceptable, an actual fish itself will offer more nutritional benefits, researchers say.
News Article: When Your Pet is Sick, Don’t Reach for Human Medication
If you notice your pet is suffering from maladies that you may be familiar with, such as a stuffy nose, backache, or upset stomach, don’t reach for the medications you would use for yourself before consulting a vet, urges veterinarian Dr. Carolynn MacAllister.
“Administration of human medications should only occur with the recommendation and supervision of a veterinarian,” MacAllister said. “Accidental pet poisoning is a common problem when pet owners intentionally give medication in an attempt to make their pet feel better.”
MacAllister stresses that pet-owners should pet-proof their homes in the same way they would for small children. Ibuprofen and naproxen, for example, can cause serious harm to pets; consumption of such medications can lead to stomach and intestinal ulcers as well as serious kidney problems in dogs, cats, and other small mammals.
MacAllister also warns that although acetaminophen may be safe for humans, the same is not true for pets, specifically for cats. Acetaminophen can easily damage cats’ red blood cells, thereby limiting their ability to carry oxygen. In dogs, this medication can also damage the red blood cells in addition to causing liver problems when consumed in large doses.
Other medications that can be harmful to pets include antidepressants, ADD/ADHD medications, sleep aids, birth control, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and thyroid and cholesterol drugs. MacAllister recommends keeping all medications safely locked away in cabinets and keeping your own medication separate from your pet’s medication as it can be easy to accidentally switch them.
“Pets metabolize medications very differently than people, so it’s imperative to use caution when storing medicines,” MacAllister said. “Even seemingly benign over-the-counter or herbal medications may cause serious poisoning in pets. Call your veterinarian immediately if your pet has consumed any human medication.”
“Administration of human medications should only occur with the recommendation and supervision of a veterinarian,” MacAllister said. “Accidental pet poisoning is a common problem when pet owners intentionally give medication in an attempt to make their pet feel better.”
MacAllister stresses that pet-owners should pet-proof their homes in the same way they would for small children. Ibuprofen and naproxen, for example, can cause serious harm to pets; consumption of such medications can lead to stomach and intestinal ulcers as well as serious kidney problems in dogs, cats, and other small mammals.
MacAllister also warns that although acetaminophen may be safe for humans, the same is not true for pets, specifically for cats. Acetaminophen can easily damage cats’ red blood cells, thereby limiting their ability to carry oxygen. In dogs, this medication can also damage the red blood cells in addition to causing liver problems when consumed in large doses.
Other medications that can be harmful to pets include antidepressants, ADD/ADHD medications, sleep aids, birth control, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and thyroid and cholesterol drugs. MacAllister recommends keeping all medications safely locked away in cabinets and keeping your own medication separate from your pet’s medication as it can be easy to accidentally switch them.
“Pets metabolize medications very differently than people, so it’s imperative to use caution when storing medicines,” MacAllister said. “Even seemingly benign over-the-counter or herbal medications may cause serious poisoning in pets. Call your veterinarian immediately if your pet has consumed any human medication.”
News Article: New Vaccine Eliminates Cat Allergies
A brand new vaccine that successfully treats people with cat allergies has been developed by McMaster University. The vaccine, developed by immunologist Mark Larché and his research team, is not only effective, but has almost no side effects.
Traditionally, cat owners who were allergic to their pets had two options; either undergo frequent allergy shots or get rid of their cat. Larché’s new cat allergy vaccine provides a much better alternative to these unpleasant, traditional options.
The vaccine was developed based on research conducted over the past 10 years in both Canada and Britain by Larché and his research team. Blood samples from 100 volunteers allergic to cats were used to develop the vaccine known as “peptide immunotherapy,” where a low dose of the vaccine is administered into the skin.
“We picked the peptides that would work in as much of the population as possible,” Larché explained.
Optimal dosage will be determined through clinical trials currently underway in a much larger group of allergy sufferers. The cat allergy vaccine is the first in a line of vaccines to be developed by Adiga Life Sciences, a company established by McMaster in 2008.
Traditionally, cat owners who were allergic to their pets had two options; either undergo frequent allergy shots or get rid of their cat. Larché’s new cat allergy vaccine provides a much better alternative to these unpleasant, traditional options.
The vaccine was developed based on research conducted over the past 10 years in both Canada and Britain by Larché and his research team. Blood samples from 100 volunteers allergic to cats were used to develop the vaccine known as “peptide immunotherapy,” where a low dose of the vaccine is administered into the skin.
“We picked the peptides that would work in as much of the population as possible,” Larché explained.
Optimal dosage will be determined through clinical trials currently underway in a much larger group of allergy sufferers. The cat allergy vaccine is the first in a line of vaccines to be developed by Adiga Life Sciences, a company established by McMaster in 2008.
News Article: Trenton Hospital Becomes First in the Nation to Use Experimental Stroke Treatment Device
Capital Health Regional Medical Center of Trenton became the first hospital in the country to employ Trevo 2, a device used to remove blood clots from stroke patients, in early March.
“With a time critical disease like stroke, patients need treatment fast and having a broad range of treatment options available is essential to providing patients with the best chance at surviving and limiting associated disabilities,” said director of neurosciences and endovascular & cerebrovascular neurosurgery at Capital Health, Dr. Erol Veznedaroglu.
Trevo 2 is a half-inch long cylinder made of mesh and is inserted through an incision in the groin. A small tube called a microcatheter is then run through to the femoral artery to the clot site where the device is then pushed into the affected blood vessel where it grabs the clot and pulls it back out of the body.
The procedure, called a “mechanical thrombectomy,” takes about 30 minutes to perform. One of the benefits of the Trevo 2 is that it allows blood flow to be restored to the area sooner than other, older devices. Also the risk of the accidental puncturing of a blood vessel is reduced compared with the Trevo 2’s predecessors.
Upon the arrival of Veznedaroglu and his partner, Dr. Kenneth Liebman two years ago, Capital Health began an expansion of its neurosurgery unit. Capital Health has since undertaken the goal of becoming the top hospital in the region for stroke treatment by establishing the Center for Neurologic Emergency Medicine and the Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center of New Jersey.
Capital Health’s leadership in stroke treatment will not only benefit the company, but also the residents of Central Jersey, said Veznedaroglu.
“Nobody was getting this kind of care in the state,” he said. “If this is you or your mom or your dad, you don’t want them getting packaged off to Philadelphia or New York (for treatment of a stroke), you want them to be able to go to a place that’s five minutes away.”
“With a time critical disease like stroke, patients need treatment fast and having a broad range of treatment options available is essential to providing patients with the best chance at surviving and limiting associated disabilities,” said director of neurosciences and endovascular & cerebrovascular neurosurgery at Capital Health, Dr. Erol Veznedaroglu.
Trevo 2 is a half-inch long cylinder made of mesh and is inserted through an incision in the groin. A small tube called a microcatheter is then run through to the femoral artery to the clot site where the device is then pushed into the affected blood vessel where it grabs the clot and pulls it back out of the body.
The procedure, called a “mechanical thrombectomy,” takes about 30 minutes to perform. One of the benefits of the Trevo 2 is that it allows blood flow to be restored to the area sooner than other, older devices. Also the risk of the accidental puncturing of a blood vessel is reduced compared with the Trevo 2’s predecessors.
Upon the arrival of Veznedaroglu and his partner, Dr. Kenneth Liebman two years ago, Capital Health began an expansion of its neurosurgery unit. Capital Health has since undertaken the goal of becoming the top hospital in the region for stroke treatment by establishing the Center for Neurologic Emergency Medicine and the Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center of New Jersey.
Capital Health’s leadership in stroke treatment will not only benefit the company, but also the residents of Central Jersey, said Veznedaroglu.
“Nobody was getting this kind of care in the state,” he said. “If this is you or your mom or your dad, you don’t want them getting packaged off to Philadelphia or New York (for treatment of a stroke), you want them to be able to go to a place that’s five minutes away.”
News Article: New Jersey Towns Start to “Kick Butt” When it Comes to Quitting Smoking
Five New Jersey municipalities have recently joined “Kick Butt,” a unique program where towns compete to see who can reduce smoking most amongst public employees. The five participating towns are Parsippany-Troy Hills, Paterson, Vineland, West Milford, and Woodbridge.
The Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) partnered with Pfizer and the Fox Chase Cancer Center to initiate this new smoking cessation program in the state of New Jersey.
"This program will enhance the quality of life for many New Jersey residents, and we hope it serves as an inspiration to other Garden State communities," said NJ State Director, Dave Terranova.
The participating towns will compete to accomplish the highest percent of employees to go the longest without smoking. The town that wins will be featured in a statewide press conference around the end of September 2011.
"According to the Centers for Disease Control, cigarette smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States and its incidence amongst public employees, particularly police and firefighter,s is high," said Director of the MWC, Emily Littman.
The MWC has also recently launched a website to help participants in their mission to quit smoking. The site includes a blog, an “ask the experts” section, related news, and many resources to help participants quit smoking. The website can be found at kickbuttcontest.org.
The Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) partnered with Pfizer and the Fox Chase Cancer Center to initiate this new smoking cessation program in the state of New Jersey.
"This program will enhance the quality of life for many New Jersey residents, and we hope it serves as an inspiration to other Garden State communities," said NJ State Director, Dave Terranova.
The participating towns will compete to accomplish the highest percent of employees to go the longest without smoking. The town that wins will be featured in a statewide press conference around the end of September 2011.
"According to the Centers for Disease Control, cigarette smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States and its incidence amongst public employees, particularly police and firefighter,s is high," said Director of the MWC, Emily Littman.
The MWC has also recently launched a website to help participants in their mission to quit smoking. The site includes a blog, an “ask the experts” section, related news, and many resources to help participants quit smoking. The website can be found at kickbuttcontest.org.
News Article: The HEART for Women Act Reintroduced
The Heart Disease Education, Research and Analysis, and Treatment (HEART) For Women Act, to guarantee heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in women are recognized more widely and treated more effectively, has recently been reintroduced. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Lisa Murkowski were the ones to reintroduce the legislation.
The HEART for Women Act would ensure that healthcare data reported to the federal government is categorized by gender, race, and ethnicity. The act would also require an annual report on the quality of and access to care for women with cardiovascular disease as well as expanding funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s WISEWOMAN screenings – a program for low-income, underinsured women – to all 50 states rather than the 20 it is currently available in.
The HEART for Women Act is endorsed by over 40 leading health organizations such as the American Heart Association, Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), and Womenheart: the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.
“Cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one killer of women and the recent re-introduction of the HEART for Women Act shows a renewed commitment to raising awareness, improving treatment options and educating women on prevention and care,” said CEO and President of SWHR, Phyllis Greenberger.
In the U.S., every 60 seconds, someone’s mother, daughter, wife, or sister dies from heart disease, stroke, or other types of cardiovascular disease. Almost half of all African-American women will experience some type of cardiovascular disease whereas 34 percent of white women will.
“Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular trials,” said CEO of Womeheart, Lisa M. Tate. “As a result, female heart patients are treated with drugs, procedures, and devices that have been shown to be effective in men, yet not studied in a sufficient number of women.”
“The HEART for Women Act will help educate women and their doctors, increase access to screenings for women, and expand gender-specific analysis and research, so we are better equipped to fight this disease and save lives,” said Senator Stabenow. For more information, visit heartforwomen.org
The HEART for Women Act would ensure that healthcare data reported to the federal government is categorized by gender, race, and ethnicity. The act would also require an annual report on the quality of and access to care for women with cardiovascular disease as well as expanding funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s WISEWOMAN screenings – a program for low-income, underinsured women – to all 50 states rather than the 20 it is currently available in.
The HEART for Women Act is endorsed by over 40 leading health organizations such as the American Heart Association, Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), and Womenheart: the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.
“Cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one killer of women and the recent re-introduction of the HEART for Women Act shows a renewed commitment to raising awareness, improving treatment options and educating women on prevention and care,” said CEO and President of SWHR, Phyllis Greenberger.
In the U.S., every 60 seconds, someone’s mother, daughter, wife, or sister dies from heart disease, stroke, or other types of cardiovascular disease. Almost half of all African-American women will experience some type of cardiovascular disease whereas 34 percent of white women will.
“Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular trials,” said CEO of Womeheart, Lisa M. Tate. “As a result, female heart patients are treated with drugs, procedures, and devices that have been shown to be effective in men, yet not studied in a sufficient number of women.”
“The HEART for Women Act will help educate women and their doctors, increase access to screenings for women, and expand gender-specific analysis and research, so we are better equipped to fight this disease and save lives,” said Senator Stabenow. For more information, visit heartforwomen.org
News Article: “An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away,” Has Truth to it
Everyone knows the old “Apple a Day” saying, but just how beneficial are apples to our health? According to a new study examining postmenopausal women, the benefits go far beyond the fruit’s fiber content; apples strongly promote cardiovascular health as well.
Apples are truly a “miracle fruit,” according to the study authors, Dr. Bahram H. Arjmandi, PhD and Professor Margaret A. Sitton of Florida State University. Their study consisted of 160 women ages 45-65, half of which ate dried apples daily for an entire year. Samples of their blood were taken at 3, 6 and 12 months. Dr. Arjmandi was surprised at the results.
“Incredible changes in the apple-eating women happened by 6 months—they experienced a 23% decrease in LDL cholesterol,” which is known as “bad cholesterol,” Arjmandi said.
In addition to significantly reducing bad cholesterol, levels of good cholesterol increased by about four percent in the apple-eating women as well. Another advantage that the authors point to is that the women who ate an apple a day lost an average of 3.3 lbs. Authors say that this could be due to a compound called pectin in apples, which has been shown to have a satiety effect.
It turns out science truly backs up the “Apple a Day” expression, Arjmandi says. The next step is a much larger, more comprehensive nationwide study to further investigate the health benefits of apples.
“Everyone can benefit from consuming apples,” Arjmandi concluded.
Apples are truly a “miracle fruit,” according to the study authors, Dr. Bahram H. Arjmandi, PhD and Professor Margaret A. Sitton of Florida State University. Their study consisted of 160 women ages 45-65, half of which ate dried apples daily for an entire year. Samples of their blood were taken at 3, 6 and 12 months. Dr. Arjmandi was surprised at the results.
“Incredible changes in the apple-eating women happened by 6 months—they experienced a 23% decrease in LDL cholesterol,” which is known as “bad cholesterol,” Arjmandi said.
In addition to significantly reducing bad cholesterol, levels of good cholesterol increased by about four percent in the apple-eating women as well. Another advantage that the authors point to is that the women who ate an apple a day lost an average of 3.3 lbs. Authors say that this could be due to a compound called pectin in apples, which has been shown to have a satiety effect.
It turns out science truly backs up the “Apple a Day” expression, Arjmandi says. The next step is a much larger, more comprehensive nationwide study to further investigate the health benefits of apples.
“Everyone can benefit from consuming apples,” Arjmandi concluded.
News Article: Exercise is the Key to Preventing Premature Aging
A new study shows that endurance exercise not only helps you feel younger, but can also make you look younger and even live longer. The study, conducted by McMaster University researchers, found that premature aging was completely prevented in nearly every organ in the bodies of mice that ran on a treadmill three times a week for five months.
“Exercise is truly the fountain of youth,” Adeel Safdar, lead author of the study concluded.
The mice involved in the study were genetically disadvantaged to age faster due to a genetic defect affecting their mitochondria. The mitochondria are responsible for generating energy for virtually every cell in the bodies of both humans and mice. Proper mitochondrial function is crucial to reducing morbidity and mortality in both mice and humans as well and exercise appears to be the best way to boost its function, the authors of the study say.
Despite their genetic disadvantage, the mice who engaged in endurance exercise three times per week looked just as young as healthy mice, whereas those mice who did not were balding, graying, physically inactive, and less fertile.
Other studies have tried to treat mice with exercise pills or reduce the animals’ caloric intakes to prevent premature aging, but both strategies were met with minimal success said Mark Tarnopolsky, principal investigator in the study.
“Many people falsely believe that the benefits of exercise will be found in a pill,” Tarnopolsky said. “We have clearly shown that there is no substitute for the ‘real thing’ of exercise when it comes to protection from aging.”
“Exercise is truly the fountain of youth,” Adeel Safdar, lead author of the study concluded.
The mice involved in the study were genetically disadvantaged to age faster due to a genetic defect affecting their mitochondria. The mitochondria are responsible for generating energy for virtually every cell in the bodies of both humans and mice. Proper mitochondrial function is crucial to reducing morbidity and mortality in both mice and humans as well and exercise appears to be the best way to boost its function, the authors of the study say.
Despite their genetic disadvantage, the mice who engaged in endurance exercise three times per week looked just as young as healthy mice, whereas those mice who did not were balding, graying, physically inactive, and less fertile.
Other studies have tried to treat mice with exercise pills or reduce the animals’ caloric intakes to prevent premature aging, but both strategies were met with minimal success said Mark Tarnopolsky, principal investigator in the study.
“Many people falsely believe that the benefits of exercise will be found in a pill,” Tarnopolsky said. “We have clearly shown that there is no substitute for the ‘real thing’ of exercise when it comes to protection from aging.”
News Article: More Evidence to Support that Alzheimer’s is More Likely to Be Inherited from Mother
Years of evidence has suggested that one is more likely to inherit Alzheimer’s disease from their mother than from their father, and a new study has reaffirmed this theory. The study was published in the March 1, 2011 print issue of Neurology.
It has been estimated that those whose parents had Alzheimer’s disease are four to 10 times more likely to develop the disease themselves than those with no family history, study author, Robyn Honea of Kansas School of Medicine, said.
The study involved 53 dementia-free participants ages 60 and over who were followed for a period of two years. Eleven of the 53 had a mother with Alzheimer’s disease, 10 had a father with the disease and 32 had no history of the disease in their family. Throughout the study, the participants were given brain scans and cognitive tests.
The results showed that those whose mothers had Alzheimer’s experienced twice as much gray matter shrinkage in the brain – a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease – than those who had a father or no parent with the disease. Also those whose mothers had Alzheimer’s showed roughly one and a half times more brain shrinkage – another occurrence in Alzheimer’s disease – per year compared with those whose fathers had the disease.
“Understanding how the disease may be inherited could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies,” said Honea.
It has been estimated that those whose parents had Alzheimer’s disease are four to 10 times more likely to develop the disease themselves than those with no family history, study author, Robyn Honea of Kansas School of Medicine, said.
The study involved 53 dementia-free participants ages 60 and over who were followed for a period of two years. Eleven of the 53 had a mother with Alzheimer’s disease, 10 had a father with the disease and 32 had no history of the disease in their family. Throughout the study, the participants were given brain scans and cognitive tests.
The results showed that those whose mothers had Alzheimer’s experienced twice as much gray matter shrinkage in the brain – a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease – than those who had a father or no parent with the disease. Also those whose mothers had Alzheimer’s showed roughly one and a half times more brain shrinkage – another occurrence in Alzheimer’s disease – per year compared with those whose fathers had the disease.
“Understanding how the disease may be inherited could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies,” said Honea.
News Article: The Countless Health Benefits of Blueberries
There may be even more reason to love blueberries than we thought – according to the USDA Human Nutrition Centre, they are one of the best natural foods you can eat.
Blueberries are number one in antioxidant activity when compared to 40 other types of fresh fruits and vegetables, the USDA Human Nutrition Centre reports. Blueberries’ antioxidant powers help to ward off cancer and many other age-related diseases.
The pigment that creates the blue coloring in blueberries, anthocyanin, is said to be the compound chiefly responsible for the many health benefits of the fruit. Scientists from Europe and Japan have discovered correlations between anthocyanin and improved eyesight and function.
Rutgers University researchers have also established a relationship between blueberries and improved urinary tract health as they appear to reduce risk of infection. Further, The American Chemical Society has reported that another compound in blueberries called pterostilbene has the ability to lower cholesterol. USDA research has shown that blueberries can also be helpful in reducing obesity and heart disease.
By eating one cup of blueberries a day, you can be the recipient of the countless health benefits of this delicious fruit. And the best news is that blueberries are available in most stores year round and are easy to grow in any home garden.
Blueberries are number one in antioxidant activity when compared to 40 other types of fresh fruits and vegetables, the USDA Human Nutrition Centre reports. Blueberries’ antioxidant powers help to ward off cancer and many other age-related diseases.
The pigment that creates the blue coloring in blueberries, anthocyanin, is said to be the compound chiefly responsible for the many health benefits of the fruit. Scientists from Europe and Japan have discovered correlations between anthocyanin and improved eyesight and function.
Rutgers University researchers have also established a relationship between blueberries and improved urinary tract health as they appear to reduce risk of infection. Further, The American Chemical Society has reported that another compound in blueberries called pterostilbene has the ability to lower cholesterol. USDA research has shown that blueberries can also be helpful in reducing obesity and heart disease.
By eating one cup of blueberries a day, you can be the recipient of the countless health benefits of this delicious fruit. And the best news is that blueberries are available in most stores year round and are easy to grow in any home garden.
News Article: Spring Cold or Spring Allergies? How to Tell the Difference
Allergy season has arrived and if you find yourself suffering from constant sneezing or a stuffy nose, it is important to know whether a cold or allergies is responsible, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) stresses.
Colds are contagious and can be caused by over 200 different viruses whereas allergies are not contagious and are triggered by your immune system overreacting to allergens. Springtime colds are not uncommon, but high levels of tree pollens, grass pollens and mold spores during the season make allergies, especially hay fever, extremely common.
Sixty million Americans suffer from springtime hay fever. To find out whether you might be one of them, these general guidelines can be helpful:
Starting symptoms - Colds typically start with a stuffy nose and throat irritation which lead to sneezing. Allergy symptoms include sneezing as well, but are usually accompanied by itchy eyes and nose.
Mucus differences - With a cold, the mucus often turns yellow or green whereas with allergies, the mucus is generally clear in color. Persistence of symptoms - Colds generally run their course in a matter of a week or two, however allergies will linger on as long as you are exposed to the allergen.
Fever - A fever is a strong indicator that you are suffering from a cold.
Itchy eyes - Itchy eyes strongly indicate you are suffering from allergies.
Sore throat - A sore throat can occur in both allergies and a cold, but is more common with colds.
Coughing - Persistent coughing, particularly in children, can be a sign of asthma. A continuous cough should be assessed by an allergist.
For more information about allergies and to find an allergist visit allergyandasthmarelief.org.
Colds are contagious and can be caused by over 200 different viruses whereas allergies are not contagious and are triggered by your immune system overreacting to allergens. Springtime colds are not uncommon, but high levels of tree pollens, grass pollens and mold spores during the season make allergies, especially hay fever, extremely common.
Sixty million Americans suffer from springtime hay fever. To find out whether you might be one of them, these general guidelines can be helpful:
Starting symptoms - Colds typically start with a stuffy nose and throat irritation which lead to sneezing. Allergy symptoms include sneezing as well, but are usually accompanied by itchy eyes and nose.
Mucus differences - With a cold, the mucus often turns yellow or green whereas with allergies, the mucus is generally clear in color. Persistence of symptoms - Colds generally run their course in a matter of a week or two, however allergies will linger on as long as you are exposed to the allergen.
Fever - A fever is a strong indicator that you are suffering from a cold.
Itchy eyes - Itchy eyes strongly indicate you are suffering from allergies.
Sore throat - A sore throat can occur in both allergies and a cold, but is more common with colds.
Coughing - Persistent coughing, particularly in children, can be a sign of asthma. A continuous cough should be assessed by an allergist.
For more information about allergies and to find an allergist visit allergyandasthmarelief.org.
News Article: Lifelong UV Ray Protection is Key to Preventing Skin Cancer
With the summer just around the corner, it is important to remember to take proper steps to prevent UV radiation. Lifelong prevention is the key to preventing skin cancer, doctors emphasize.
UV rays can cause not only cancer, but a number of other skin problems, chair of the UAB department of dermatology, Craig Elmets, explains. Extended exposure to UV rays can also lead to accelerated aging and pre-cancerous moles that often require being cut out. Continually protecting the skin from these rays is absolutely crucial, Elmets emphasizes.
Luckily there are simple steps that can be taken to avoid these dangers. Elmets says that sunscreen should be worn each day and re-applied often, even if it is cloudy outside. Wearing a hat or sunglasses can also help to protect against melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can occur in any area of the body including the eye, Elmets adds.
He also emphasizes the importance of keeping an eye on moles, watching for changes in shape, color or texture. If these changes occur they should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist as soon as possible.
UV rays can cause not only cancer, but a number of other skin problems, chair of the UAB department of dermatology, Craig Elmets, explains. Extended exposure to UV rays can also lead to accelerated aging and pre-cancerous moles that often require being cut out. Continually protecting the skin from these rays is absolutely crucial, Elmets emphasizes.
Luckily there are simple steps that can be taken to avoid these dangers. Elmets says that sunscreen should be worn each day and re-applied often, even if it is cloudy outside. Wearing a hat or sunglasses can also help to protect against melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can occur in any area of the body including the eye, Elmets adds.
He also emphasizes the importance of keeping an eye on moles, watching for changes in shape, color or texture. If these changes occur they should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist as soon as possible.
News Article: The ADA Announces National Nutrition Month – “Eat Right with Color”
March is National Nutrition Month, a campaign created by the American Dietetic Association (ADA), and this year’s theme is “Eat Right with Color.” The theme highlights the importance of consuming a colorful diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and dairy.
And there are many options offered in grocery stores and restaurants that can help people accomplish this, the ADA says. Food processing and technology have made it possible to eat seasonal foods any time of the year. Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are an example of this; these packaged foods can offer equal nutritional value compared to fresh fruits and vegetables.
The ADA points to other types of packaged foods that can play a beneficial role in a healthy diet, such as brown rice, yogurt, cereal, soup, and juice. Fresh tomatoes can be found in produce sections of grocery stores even in the winter. Canned, diced, or jarred sun-dried tomatoes are also generally always available to enjoy year round.
The color of certain fruits and vegetables is often strongly linked to the health benefit of that food – the deep red of cherries, bright orange of apricots, or deep green of spinach, the ADA explains. Meals should be planned around vegetable dishes as often as possible and fruit makes a great snack or dessert substitute, the ADA says.
And there are many options offered in grocery stores and restaurants that can help people accomplish this, the ADA says. Food processing and technology have made it possible to eat seasonal foods any time of the year. Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are an example of this; these packaged foods can offer equal nutritional value compared to fresh fruits and vegetables.
The ADA points to other types of packaged foods that can play a beneficial role in a healthy diet, such as brown rice, yogurt, cereal, soup, and juice. Fresh tomatoes can be found in produce sections of grocery stores even in the winter. Canned, diced, or jarred sun-dried tomatoes are also generally always available to enjoy year round.
The color of certain fruits and vegetables is often strongly linked to the health benefit of that food – the deep red of cherries, bright orange of apricots, or deep green of spinach, the ADA explains. Meals should be planned around vegetable dishes as often as possible and fruit makes a great snack or dessert substitute, the ADA says.
News Article: Walking May Protect Memory Function and Brain Size in Older Age
\Walking six to nine miles per week may help to maintain brain size and prevent memory loss later in life according to a recent study. Researchers have previously theorized that physical activity can help to preserve grey matter in the brain which protects memory function and this study strengthens that theory.
Lead author, Dr. Kirk I. Erickson of the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania explained how human brains shrink late in adulthood, which leads to memory problems. Erickson hopes his research results will prompt further investigation on how physical activity can prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Erickson and his team investigated 299 adults averaging 78 years old who were dementia-free at the beginning of the study. Grey matter volume, physical activity and cognitive impairment were measured. Nine years into the study, participants underwent MRI brain scans to measure grey matter loss. They were then given cognitive impairment tests to evaluate thinking skills and signs of dementia 13 years later.
At the 9-year mark those who had reported walking 6 to 9 miles at the beginning of the study had more grey matter volume than those who walked less. The participants who walked the most were also half as likely to develop memory problems later. Though researchers acknowledge their study does not establish cause and effect, the results do suggest strong links between physical activity, memory retention and overall brain health.
"If regular exercise in midlife could improve brain health and improve thinking and memory in later life, it would be one more reason to make regular exercise in people of all ages a public health imperative,” Erickson said.
Lead author, Dr. Kirk I. Erickson of the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania explained how human brains shrink late in adulthood, which leads to memory problems. Erickson hopes his research results will prompt further investigation on how physical activity can prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Erickson and his team investigated 299 adults averaging 78 years old who were dementia-free at the beginning of the study. Grey matter volume, physical activity and cognitive impairment were measured. Nine years into the study, participants underwent MRI brain scans to measure grey matter loss. They were then given cognitive impairment tests to evaluate thinking skills and signs of dementia 13 years later.
At the 9-year mark those who had reported walking 6 to 9 miles at the beginning of the study had more grey matter volume than those who walked less. The participants who walked the most were also half as likely to develop memory problems later. Though researchers acknowledge their study does not establish cause and effect, the results do suggest strong links between physical activity, memory retention and overall brain health.
"If regular exercise in midlife could improve brain health and improve thinking and memory in later life, it would be one more reason to make regular exercise in people of all ages a public health imperative,” Erickson said.
News Article: Johns Hopkins Researchers Offer Advice on How Hospitals Can Go Green
Johns Hopkins researchers have recently developed strategies for hospitals to reduce their carbon footprint and save money while leaving patient safety uncompromised. The Johns Hopkins team reported these strategies in the February issue of the Archives of Surgery.
According to experts, health care facilities are the second major contributor of waste products in the United States, behind the food industry. Health care facilities are said to produce 6,600 tons of waste per day and over four billion pounds per year.
The team reported that these massive numbers are due primarily to several wasteful practices; the opening of sterilized equipment without ever using it, the installation of energy-draining overhead lights, and the filling of bags labeled as “medical waste” with harmless trash that could easily be disposed of more cheaply.
During surgery, two types of disposal bags are used – red bags for infectious, pathologic waste, which are much more expensive to process, and clear bags for noninfectious waste. Martin A. Makary, research leader, said that as much as 90 percent of what winds up the red bags do not meet the criteria for infectious waste. The team concluded that although truly hazardous, red-bag worthy waste makes up for only 24 percent of medical waste, it accounts for 86 percent of costs.
“If we’re going to get serious as a country about being environmentally conscious, we need to look at our biggest institutions,” Makary said. “When an individual decides to recycle or dispose of waste differently, it has an impact. But when a hospital decides as an organization to go green, the impact is massive.”
Makary and his team developed their report by reviewing 43 previously published studies on hospitals’ environmental practices. They then assembled an expert panel to create a list of practical strategies to effectively reduce identified waste while keeping patient safety the top priority.
The panel identified their top strategies as reprocessing single-use medical devices by using proper sterilization, making environmentally conscious purchasing choices, managing energy use, and managing pharmacy waste.
“We live in a much more cost-conscious medical climate now and there is a lot that hospitals can do to go green,” Makary concluded.
According to experts, health care facilities are the second major contributor of waste products in the United States, behind the food industry. Health care facilities are said to produce 6,600 tons of waste per day and over four billion pounds per year.
The team reported that these massive numbers are due primarily to several wasteful practices; the opening of sterilized equipment without ever using it, the installation of energy-draining overhead lights, and the filling of bags labeled as “medical waste” with harmless trash that could easily be disposed of more cheaply.
During surgery, two types of disposal bags are used – red bags for infectious, pathologic waste, which are much more expensive to process, and clear bags for noninfectious waste. Martin A. Makary, research leader, said that as much as 90 percent of what winds up the red bags do not meet the criteria for infectious waste. The team concluded that although truly hazardous, red-bag worthy waste makes up for only 24 percent of medical waste, it accounts for 86 percent of costs.
“If we’re going to get serious as a country about being environmentally conscious, we need to look at our biggest institutions,” Makary said. “When an individual decides to recycle or dispose of waste differently, it has an impact. But when a hospital decides as an organization to go green, the impact is massive.”
Makary and his team developed their report by reviewing 43 previously published studies on hospitals’ environmental practices. They then assembled an expert panel to create a list of practical strategies to effectively reduce identified waste while keeping patient safety the top priority.
The panel identified their top strategies as reprocessing single-use medical devices by using proper sterilization, making environmentally conscious purchasing choices, managing energy use, and managing pharmacy waste.
“We live in a much more cost-conscious medical climate now and there is a lot that hospitals can do to go green,” Makary concluded.
News Article: Couples with Similar Speaking Styles More Likely to Stay Together
It is a well known fact that people tend to date and marry other people who are similar to themselves in personality, values, and appearance, but a new study published in Psychological Science has added another important similarity to the list – speech style. The study found that people who speak in similar styles are more compatible with one another.
The researchers focused on what are called, “function words.” Function words are not nouns and verbs, but words that show how they relate, such as ‘the,’ ‘a,’ ‘be,’ ‘anything,’ ‘that,’ ‘will,’ ‘him,’ ‘her,’ and ‘and.’ Coauthor of the study, James Pennebaker of the University of Texas at Austin, says that how we use these words makes up our writing and speech style.
Two studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between the speaking and writing styles people adopt while speaking with one another and the likelihood of future dating behavior and relationship success. The first study was based on speech and the second study on online chats.
In the first study, conversations between pairs of college students during 4-minute speed date sessions were recorded. Each pair conversed about the same set of topics, and although the conversations all sounded more or less the same, major differences in language synchrony were found. The pairs who had higher than average matching language style scores were nearly four times as likely to want future contact than those pairs who were out of sync.
The same pattern was found in the second study, which looked into online chats between dating couples over the course of 10 days. Three months later, nearly 80% of couples whose writing styles matched were still together, whereas only 54% of those who did not match as well were still together.
Pennebaker says that people do not consciously synchronize their speech. "What's wonderful about this is we don't really make that decision; it just comes out of our mouths."
The researchers focused on what are called, “function words.” Function words are not nouns and verbs, but words that show how they relate, such as ‘the,’ ‘a,’ ‘be,’ ‘anything,’ ‘that,’ ‘will,’ ‘him,’ ‘her,’ and ‘and.’ Coauthor of the study, James Pennebaker of the University of Texas at Austin, says that how we use these words makes up our writing and speech style.
Two studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between the speaking and writing styles people adopt while speaking with one another and the likelihood of future dating behavior and relationship success. The first study was based on speech and the second study on online chats.
In the first study, conversations between pairs of college students during 4-minute speed date sessions were recorded. Each pair conversed about the same set of topics, and although the conversations all sounded more or less the same, major differences in language synchrony were found. The pairs who had higher than average matching language style scores were nearly four times as likely to want future contact than those pairs who were out of sync.
The same pattern was found in the second study, which looked into online chats between dating couples over the course of 10 days. Three months later, nearly 80% of couples whose writing styles matched were still together, whereas only 54% of those who did not match as well were still together.
Pennebaker says that people do not consciously synchronize their speech. "What's wonderful about this is we don't really make that decision; it just comes out of our mouths."
News Article: Opposites May Attract, but May Not Be Best for Each Other
Though the old saying that “opposites attract” may sometimes be true, when it comes to romance, it’s best to choose someone who loves what you love, according to Kansas State University instructor and licensed marriage and family therapist, Chelsea Madsen. Typically people are attracted to those who are similar to themselves in values, attitudes, and interests, she said.
When partners hold similar values, expectations, and attitudes, they will be less likely to have to negotiate through every minute detail of the relationship, Madsen said. She referenced growing numbers of studies which correlate similarities in values and attitudes between partners with increased marital satisfaction.
This is not to say opposites can’t attract or that opposites can’t have successful relationships, Madsen added. However, major differences have the potential to grow into major problems down the line. Madsen explained that sometimes opposites can attract in healthy ways, such as a partner who encourages the other to explore new ideas and experiences. However, she noted that all too often opposites attract in unhealthy ways.
“A lot of times when opposites attract it’s because somebody feels there’s a lack in their life or there’s a hole that they try to fill with a person who is an opposite,” Madsen said.
Madsen pointed out that looking to someone else to make one feel “whole” is never healthy and that this reasoning will usually only lead to further difficulty and disappointment. While there are many areas where similarities may not matter to your relationship satisfaction, it is most important, Madsen said, to find a partner who is similar in the areas that are most important to you.
Madsen said it is best to know what you desire in a partner and to work on those characteristics in yourself because oftentimes characteristics we look for in partners are the characteristics we desire for ourselves as well. For example, if you want a partner who is honest, work on being more honest. When we improve ourselves, we are more likely to have successful relationships with others whether similar or opposite, Madsen concluded.
When partners hold similar values, expectations, and attitudes, they will be less likely to have to negotiate through every minute detail of the relationship, Madsen said. She referenced growing numbers of studies which correlate similarities in values and attitudes between partners with increased marital satisfaction.
This is not to say opposites can’t attract or that opposites can’t have successful relationships, Madsen added. However, major differences have the potential to grow into major problems down the line. Madsen explained that sometimes opposites can attract in healthy ways, such as a partner who encourages the other to explore new ideas and experiences. However, she noted that all too often opposites attract in unhealthy ways.
“A lot of times when opposites attract it’s because somebody feels there’s a lack in their life or there’s a hole that they try to fill with a person who is an opposite,” Madsen said.
Madsen pointed out that looking to someone else to make one feel “whole” is never healthy and that this reasoning will usually only lead to further difficulty and disappointment. While there are many areas where similarities may not matter to your relationship satisfaction, it is most important, Madsen said, to find a partner who is similar in the areas that are most important to you.
Madsen said it is best to know what you desire in a partner and to work on those characteristics in yourself because oftentimes characteristics we look for in partners are the characteristics we desire for ourselves as well. For example, if you want a partner who is honest, work on being more honest. When we improve ourselves, we are more likely to have successful relationships with others whether similar or opposite, Madsen concluded.
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