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A third dipetdyl peptidase-4 (dpp-4) inhibitor has been approved by the FDA. Linagliptin follows sitagliptin and saxagliptin to the market. It is marketed by Boehringer Ingelheim as Tradjenta.
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In a population-based study using hospital discharge diagnosis codes, patients with sleep apnea who underwent knee arthroplasty or open abdominal procedures were more likely to require invasive mechanical ventilation and to be diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia or ARDS than were matched patients without sleep apnea. Knee-replacement patients, but not those undergoing laparotomy, also were more likely to be diagnosed with pulmonary embolism.
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In the Medicare population, obesity was not associated with mortality, except for those with a BMI of at least 35. However, both overweight and obesity were associated with new or worsening disability within 2 years.
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In most communities in the United States, hepatitis C (HEPc) treatment is provided by gastroenterologists. Because HEPc is now the most common cause of end-stage liver disease, and unless trends reverse will continue to be so for the foreseeable future, it is important that identification of HEPc infection be continued vigorously in the primary care community, since most at-risk persons see primary care clinicians as their point of initial contact with the health care system.
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A very low energy diet followed by a weight maintenance program results in significant improvements in weight, obstructive sleep apnea, metabolic factors, and quality of life for at least a year.
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In a small 5-week pilot trial examining the use of magnesium for the treatment of hot flashes, women with a history of breast cancer experienced improvements in hot flash frequency and severity, but no significant impact on overall quality of life.
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Regular coffee consumption is associated with a prominent decrease in fatal or metastatic prostate cancer.
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In a shocking series of findings, this well-done prospective study showed that in men older than age 55 years a higher proportion of serum omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, actually may increase the risk for high-grade prostate cancer.
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Dried plums (prunes) are safe and more effective than psyllium for treating mild-to-moderate constipation.
