In a nutshell This study compared outcomes of different surgical techniques used to treat BPH, as reported by the patients. Researchers concluded that all procedures are associated with high patient satisfaction. HoLEP was found to be associated with the best results for treatment outcome, quality of life and overall satisfaction, according to...
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Visual cues are safe and feasible to include in post stroke walking rehabilitation
In a nutshell This trial assessed whether it was safe to include visual cue training (VCT) in rehabilitation therapy for patients following stroke. The study concluded that VCT was feasible to use in post stroke rehabilitation and may potentially improve walking speed, balance and walking symmetry. Some background Following stroke, patients often...
Read MoreThe effect of alogliptin on arteries in type 2 diabetics
In a nutshell This study examined the effect of alogliptin on the progression of atherosclerosis. Some background Atherosclerosis involves the formation of fats (such as cholesterol) on the walls of arteries and can result in narrowing of the arteries. This leads to increased stiffness of the arteries and increases the risk of...
Read MoreThe benefits of a canola oil-enriched diet on blood glucose levels
In a nutshell This study examined the effect of canola oil and a low-glycemic-load diet in type 2 diabetic patients. Some background A low-glycemic-load (LGL) diet is recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). An LGL diet reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD – the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels...
Read MoreDoes testosterone replacement therapy have a beneficial effect in type 2 diabetic men with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism?
In a nutshell This study examined the effect of testosterone replacement therapy on T2D in men with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Some background One third of men with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (HH). HH is a condition in which the brain fails to produce follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and leutinizing...
Read MoreCan exercise improve quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes?
In a nutshell This study examined whether exercise can improve the quality of life in type 2 diabetics. Some background Quality of life is based on physical, emotional and social characteristics. Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have reported a lower quality of life compared to non-diabetic individuals. Previous studies have shown...
Read MoreEffectiveness of virus therapy in advanced melanoma
In a nutshell The authors evaluated the effectiveness of talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), a virus therapy, for the treatment of advanced melanoma. Some background In advanced melanoma (stage 3/4), cancer spreads from the skin to other parts of the body. Immunotherapy (uses body’s own immune system to fight cancer) and targeted therapy are...
Read MoreCould neurogenesis be the key to understanding chemobrain?
Cognitive side effects to chemotherapy, often called “chemobrain” or “chemofog”, are a growing concern among cancer survivors. Symptoms such as a decline in memory, concentration and executive functions (such as organization or attention) are often described. Cognitive changes can cause significant distress and prevent a return to...
Read MoreHow effective is tocilizumab in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis?
In a nutshell This study looked at the effectiveness of tocilizumab (TCZ, Actemra) in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study concluded that TCZ is effective both on its own and combined with another drug, methotrexate (MTX, Trexall) in treating patients with RA. Some background Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune (the...
Read MoreThe effects of berberine on women with polycystic ovary syndrome
In a nutshell This study assessed the effects of berberine on the menstrual cycle, ovulation rates, hormone levels and metabolism of Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study found that berberine may improve the menstrual pattern and ovulation rates in these patients. Some background PCOS is a syndrome in which...
Read MoreHow does pregnancy weight gain affect infant birth weight in type 1 diabetic mothers?
In a nutshell This study looked at the association between weight gain during pregnancy and baby birth weight in women with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study concluded that higher weight gain was associated with higher birth weights, regardless of blood glucose levels in women with T1D. Some background Nearly half of babies born to women with T1D...
Read MoreCan sleep affect high blood pressure?
In a nutshell This paper reviewed the link between sleep and high blood pressure. Some background Diet changes and physical activity are the main lifestyle changes used to manage high blood pressure. Studies suggest that an adequate amount of quality sleep could also prevent and treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Methods &...
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