Presents a literature review that covers the following topics related to data mining (DM) in health and medical information: the potential of DM in health and medicine; statistical methods; evaluation of methods; DM tools for health and medicine; inductive learning of symbolic rules; application of DM tools in diagnosis and prognosis; and…

Family medicine faculty participated in focus groups to gather their perceptions about faculty development. They emphasized that faculty development methods must be proven effective, woven into the fabric of clinical practice, and deal with increasing time and financial pressures. Much discussion was related to the need for national and regional…

This article suggests a way in which family therapists can begin to develop a multicultural family practice. The authors view review literature regarding recommendations for working with diverse families, examine the therapist's adoption of Multicultural Competencies, and provide a model for components of a family practice that encourages diverse…

Doctors increasingly use psychiatric medications to treat children and adolescents who have psychosocial difficulties. Briefly describes the most commonly prescribed medications for the following categories: (1) inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity; (2) depression, obsessions, and anxiety; and (3) severe aggression and out-of-control…

Results of two certification examinations were analyzed for the cohorts of physicians who had taken in-training examinations as first, second, and third year residents. Multiple regression analysis showed that the composite score and all but one part-score were independently predictive of performance on the certification examination. (Author/MLW)

A recent study suggests that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level may be a better predictor of heart disease than total cholesterol level. Even moderate amounts of aerobic exercise can raise the level of HDL-C and lower the risk of coronary artery disease. (SM)

The article looks at risks and benefits of horseback riding. Several risks can be minimized if riders take lessons, check riding equipment before each ride, wear proper headgear and footgear, and respect the horse's size and will. Medical guidelines for equestrian sports could help reduce injuries. (SM)

Provides physicians with the signs, symptoms, and management of heel/sole pain in recreational runners (usually due to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and calcaneal stress fractures). Remedies involve palliative treatment of symptoms, correction of underlying biomechanical problems, and flexibility exercises. (SM)

Some commonly misused or abused exercises which are potentially harmful are identified. Each questionable exercise is illustrated, its potential for harm discussed, and an alternative suggested. Ten general rules are offered to help teachers, coaches, exercise leaders, and individuals avoid exercise-related injuries. (IAH)

The advanced education in general dentistry program at the Eastman Dental Center (Rochester, NY) operates an after-hours clinic simulating private practice. With an optional financial incentive program for students in lieu of a fixed stipend, the clinic's fee income has increased substantially. Advantages and potential abuses are discussed. (MSE)

An athletic trainer provides instruction and direct assistance to student athletes and their coaches to develop maximum performance in an injury-free environment. This job description includes an outline of qualifications and responsibilities of a secondary school athletic trainer. (FMW)

Responds to Cottone's "Defining the Psychomedical and Systemic Paradigms in Marital and Family Therapy." Claims acknowledgement of political and economic contexts of family therapy would be wonderful news if it betokened new sensitivity. Concludes that, although there are questions about family therapy's market share, there can be no…

Trained 528 women in breast self-examination (BSE), provided behavioral management intervention for one year, and withdrew intervention for second-year follow-up. Results showed that women over age 50 did more BSEs during intervention year and were significantly more compliant during follow-up year than were younger women. (Author/NB)

It is suggested that Community Mental Health (CMH) should be more involved in the development of comprehensive behavioral services, which is now taking place outside the traditional mental health environment. Implications for CMH planning and financing are discussed, drawing upon a selective literature review and clinical illustrations. (SLD)

The Cancer Program for Older Citizens is a program to improve the outcome of a possible cancer diagnosis for older adults by encouraging early detection of cancer. Program has achieved positive, though modest, changes in the cancer-related knowledge and beliefs of older adult participants, with these impacts sustained for months after the program.…