Innovation and Research

Veterans prescribed medications through both the Veterans Affairs and Medicare had more than double the odds of exposure to potentially unsafe medication, a study from Pitt pharmacists has found — and improved communication between the systems could help solve the problem.

Cardiologist Maliha Zahid aims to reduce the amount of radiation that patients are exposed to when undergoing diagnostic imaging. Her creation, to be used during cardiac stress tests, was a Pitt Innovation Challenge winner.

New Pitt research advances the understanding of how two seemingly different brain processes related to attention are more similar than previously thought.

Pitt's John M. Jakicic and Kirk I. Erickson are updating the nation’s physical activity guidelines. Among their suggestions: Even a burst of activity for less than 10 minutes can help deskbound workers stay healthier.

Hurricane Maria wreaked havoc on Puerto Rico, damaging much of its energy infrastructure. Pitt’s Alexis Kwasinski visited the island and other sites of natural disasters to find ways to update energy sources to withstand such storms.

Platelets — the body’s internal Band-Aids — are sometimes too effective at stopping bleeding, causing potentially dangerous clots. Matthew D. Neal, assistant professor of surgery and critical care medicine, and others are searching for ways to regulate clotting to help trauma victims.

After reviewing thousands of studies of shift and emergency workers, Pitt researchers developed five guidelines to help combat fatigue, including limiting shift duration, providing caffeine and allowing naps while on duty.

Much of the neural repair occurs during the first three months following a stroke. But, exercise may benefit patients' brains, no matter how much time has passed, Pitt researchers say.

Starting a conversation on a blind date can be intimidating, and the same might be said for researchers looking for just the right expert to help them take their ideas from concept to reality.

As reigning champions of STAT Madness — a bracket-style, national innovation contest — Pitt and UPMC hope this year’s entry, the emergency doctor video game Night Shift, can hold the crown.