Medical Notes: How Sleep Apnea Rewires Your Brain, A Non-Addictive Pain Pill, And Using Ultrasound As A Disinfectant

Ultrasound isn’t just for imaging.

There’s a new way to clean medical devices and it involves sound waves. New research shows that sound waves can be used to clean medical stents and catheters. These tools often clog over time, increasing the risk of infection. Thankfully, this new method could keep them clear without invasive procedures to the patient. The research is published in the journal IEEE Transactions On Ultrasonics, Fero-Electrics, And Frequency Control. (ETH Zurich)

Sleep apnea may silently rewire the brain.

New imaging research published in Neurology shows that untreated sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep—it can impair memory and mood. Scientists found altered connections in areas that control emotion, attention, and short-term memory. These changes can occur even in people who don’t notice symptoms. Doctors say early screening and treatment could protect the brain over time. (UC Irvine)

A new non-opioid painkiller shows promise—without the dangerous side effects.

A molecule called ‘SBI 8-10’ blocks pain in a unique way that doesn’t interfere with breathing or cause addiction. According to animal studies published in Cell, it targets the nervous system differently than morphine while still providing strong pain relief. Clinical trials are still needed, but this could signal a major step toward safer, more effective pain treatments. (Duke University)

Dementia can make people act out in unexpected ways—and families are often left struggling.

From accusations of theft to sudden fear or aggression, the disease disrupts parts of the brain that control judgment, recognition, and social cues. Experts say these behaviors aren’t personal—they’re a symptom of brain damage. (University of Chicago)

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