The BrioVAD, a compact, magnetically levitated heart pump from China, is being tested in a US clinical trial for advanced heart failure patients. It's the first active implantable medical device from China to gain FDA approval for US trials, aiming to prove its safety and efficacy against the current market leader, HeartMate 3.
Nutritionist Tseng Chien-ming warns diabetics that symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, leg swelling, and sudden weight gain may indicate heart failure, not just aging. He advises monitoring NT-proBNP levels and seeking further cardiac evaluation if elevated, emphasizing comprehensive care beyond just blood sugar control.
Toshifumi Suzuki, the visionary who transformed 7-Eleven into the world's largest convenience store chain, has passed away. He opened Japan's first 7-Eleven in 1974 and expanded it globally, notably by turning the struggling US headquarters into a subsidiary.
This advocacy piece argues for earlier intervention in severe asthma treatment, citing that existing tools, clear evidence, and expert consensus already exist but political will is lacking. Earlier biologic therapy could reduce avoidable healthcare use, lower steroid-related harm, improve quality of life, support workforce participation, and align with sustainability goals.
