Chronic Disease, sleep quality, and TNF-alpha: Understanding Pathophysiologic Processes

The purpose of this study was to explore the association between poor sleep quality and TNF-alpha levels and determine which chronic diseases modify this relationship. In this cross-sectional study of 75 participants, we ascertained sleep quality by means of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Analyses revealed females were more likely to experience poor sleep quality compared to males. Although sleep quality was not associated with TNFlevels, significant associations were detected with dyslipidemia and tobacco use. Interestingly, we discovered hypertension and diabetes modified the relationship, creating a trend toward inverse associations. As for the relationship between chronic disease and sleep quality, depressive symptomatology and pain were strongly correlated. Unexpectedly, diabetes bordered associations with improved sleep quality. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these relationships and explore the effects of improved sleep quality and chronic disease management on TNF-alpha levels

IOMP Model Curriculum for postgraduate (MSc-level) education programme on Medical Physics

The Model Curriculum for Medical Physics Education is an IOMP ETC project initiated during 2005-06. It aims to present guidance on the organisation of postgraduate (MSc level) courses and presents several models for this. The main issues discussed at the Model Curriculum are: Overall number of contact and self-reading hours; MSc project and thesis; Structure of the Curriculum and model of teaching delivery; Entry requirements; Students' assessment. At a later stage these will be supplemented by detailed Syllabi. The Model also proposes IOMP-ETC help in the development of Medical Physics Education and ways for its validation a stage of importance for the further accreditation of MSc courses