In health care, it is often the smallest moments that carry the greatest meaning — a quiet conversation with a patient, a shared reflection with colleagues, or a hand held in silence. These brief yet powerful connections, known as ‘sacred moments’, is the focus of new research led by Lawson Research Institute, exploring their role in addressing clinician burnout and strengthening patient trust. 

A new study suggests brain scans and behavioral biomarkers may help end the costly trial-and-error approach to prescribing antidepressants by identifying before treatment begins which patients are more likely to benefit from common medications.

In one of the first biomarker-guided depression treatment trials, researchers found that patients with favorable biological markers showed dramatically stronger responses to antidepressants – an early but important step toward precision psychiatry.

The National Institute of Mental Health and Wellcome Leap supported the research.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT)--the flagship research publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)—will move to the Sage Journals digital platform. The transition strengthens the reader experience, expands the visibility of occupational therapy scholarship, and positions the journal for continued growth.

About The Study: In this cohort study of adults with insulin-treated diabetes, initiation of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) by primary care clinicians was associated with clinically meaningful improvements in HbA1c and significant reductions in recurrent hospitalizations and emergency department visits. These findings support expanding CGM implementation in primary care settings as a scalable strategy to improve diabetes outcomes and reduce acute care utilization, particularly in underserved populations.

About The Study: This secret shopper study found that online glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) prescription vendors often did not require clinician interaction, relying primarily on patient-reported questionnaires that may not capture important clinical and social history. Several findings suggest limited oversight: multiple GLP-1 RA prescriptions from the same clinicians, prescriptions issued despite missing required photos, and prescriptions issued within 5 minutes or less.

A new study indicates that colored bits of airborne plastic absorb heat, warming the atmosphere.