Health & Science Briefs: Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Health & Science Briefs: Tuesday, June 17, 2008

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Published: June 17, 2008

Memory loss

UCLA researchers have found that people with sleep apnea show tissue loss in brain regions that help store memory. Reported in the journal Neuroscience Letters, the findings emphasize the importance of early detection of the disorder, which affects an estimated 20 million Americans.

Sleep apnea occurs when a blocked airway repeatedly halts the sleeper's breathing, resulting in bursts of snoring and daytime fatigue. Memory loss and difficulty focusing are also common complaints. Previous studies have linked the disorder to a higher risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes.

The University of California-Los Angeles team scanned the brains of 43 sleep apnea patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The scientists discovered that the sleep apnea patients' mammillary bodies were nearly 20 percent smaller than those in control subjects, particularly on the left side.

"The findings are important because patients suffering memory loss from other syndromes, such as alcoholism or Alzheimer disease, also show shrunken mammillary bodies,” lead author Rajesh Kumar said.

Eco-friendly imbibing

Those who want their martini a little cleaner are increasingly pouring organic spirits into their glass.

"I was shopping at the farmers market, using fresh produce in my cocktails and really loving that high-end cocktail experience,” said Allison Evanow, who in 2005 created one of the nation's first entirely organic spirits, Square One vodka.

At least three hotel chains — Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and Kimpton Hotels — carry organic beverages in their bars.

To be certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an organic alcohol, the spirit must be made of ingredients grown on certified organic farms and processed in a certified organic distillery.

Free surgeries

EDMOND — If you need cataract surgery and can't afford it, you could receive free surgery at Edmond Medical Center through Mission Cataract USA, a program designed to provide free cataract surgeries for those who cannot pay. Dr. M. Andrew Hogue and Dr. Robert D. Gourley will participate in the campaign.

Patient application deadline is July 1; appointments can be made for free screenings at the physicians' office.

The program is open to patients without medical insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or veterans benefits.

Surgeries will take place Aug. 11, 13, 25 and 30 and will include lens implants, supplies and follow-up care.

Interested applicants can call 341-4238.

From Staff and Wire Reports