Visual Obstruction of Flow Indicator Increases Inspiratory Volumes in Incentive Spirometry.

Background: Incentive spirometers were developed to facilitate sustained maximum inspiration. In addition to a slow-rising float that indicates volume displacement, the incentive spirometers includes a sensitive, rapid-fluttering flow indicator. Achieving the target inspiratory volume is believed to be the most important factor in successful incentive spirometers use.

Impact of Electronic Cigarettes on Various Organ Systems.

The electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) has been regarded by many as a healthier alternative to the combustible cigarette, yet there is a lack of consensus concerning the health consequences and the health benefits associated with e-cigarette use. We review the research on the effects of e-cigarettes on multiple physiological systems, examine the association between e-cigarette use and combustible cigarette uptake and cessation, and highlight research necessary to build consensus. Although the levels of known toxicants and carcinogens tend to be significantly lower in e-cigarettes than in combustible cigarette smoke, toxicants in e-cigarette e-liquid and those that form as part of the vaporization process may produce adverse health consequences in their own right.

National Medical School Matching Program: optimizing outcomes.

The medical school admissions process is inefficient and costly to both applicants and medical schools. For the many rejected applicants, this process represents a costly, unproductive use of time. For medical schools, numerous applications are reviewed that ultimately do not yield matriculants, representing a substantial inefficiency.

Antimicrobial technology in orthopedic and spinal implants.

Infections can hinder orthopedic implant function and retention. Current implant-based antimicrobial strategies largely utilize coating-based approaches in order to reduce biofilm formation and bacterial adhesion. Several emerging antimicrobial technologies that integrate a multidisciplinary combination of drug delivery systems, material science, immunology, and polymer chemistry are in development and early clinical use.

Integrated bariatric surgery residency.

Obesity is a major public health concern. Given its lasting efficacy for improving obesity and obesity-related diseases, bariatric surgery is an increasingly common treatment option. As the implementation of the Affordable Care Act progresses, the impending physician shortage will become more severe.