Cognitive Neuropsychology of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

Advances in the treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have dramatically improved survival rates over the past 10 years, but HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remain highly prevalent and continue to represent a significant public health problem. This review provides an update on the nature, extent, and diagnosis of HAND. Particular emphasis is placed on critically evaluating research within the realm of cognitive neuropsychology that aims to elucidate the component processes of HAND across the domains of executive functions, motor skills, speeded information processing, episodic memory, attention/working memory, language, and visuoperception. In addition to clarifying the cognitive mechanisms of HAND (e.g., impaired cognitive control), the cognitive neuropsychology approach may enhance the ecological validity of neuroAIDS research and inform the development of much needed novel, targeted cognitive and behavioral therapies

Laser and Light for Wound Healing Stimulation

Understanding wound healing is critical for health care ­professionals mainly because of the enormous burden of chronic wounds on society. In addition, in many medical specialties, creating wounds for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes is part of a physician’s daily practice. Acute wounds are usually closed using sutures, staples, or other methods of wound closure. Conventional modalities include maintenance of a moist wound bed, and prevention of infection. Although acute wounds are not challenging in most settings, they may influence the hospital stay or expenses related to medical procedures. Chronic wounds however, are more challenging. The incidence of chronic wounds in the United States is approximately five to seven million per year1 and the annual costs for management of these wounds is greater than $20 billion

Laser and Light for Wound Healing Stimulation

Understanding wound healing is critical for health care professionals mainly because of the enormous burden of chronic wounds on society. In addition, in many medical specialties, creating wounds for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes is part of a physician’s daily practice. Acute wounds are usually closed using sutures, staples, or other methods of wound closure. Conventional modalities include maintenance of a moist wound bed, and prevention of infection. Although acute wounds are not challenging in most settings, they may influence the hospital stay or expenses related to medical procedures. Chronic wounds however, are more challenging. The incidence of chronic wounds in the United States is approximately five to seven million per year (Sen et al., Wound Repair Regen 17(6):763–771, 2009) and the annual costs for management of these wounds is greater than $20 billion