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McMaster University


McMaster hematologist identifies different limb loss syndromes

A McMaster University hematologist has identified various limb loss syndromes, including symmetric peripheral gangrene and venous limb gangrene, which can be caused by septic shock, cancer, and blood clotting disorders. The treatment for these conditions involves the use of blood thinners and replacement of protective factors.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 2015

Your handshake tells the story of your health

A study published in The Lancet found that firmness of hand grip is a better indicator of health than blood pressure. Researchers analyzed data from over 140,000 adults and found that reduced muscular strength measured by grip strength was consistently linked to early death, disability, and illness.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 13, 2015

Women retain insulin sensitivity better than men

Researchers at McMaster University found that women's muscle appears more efficient in neutralizing the protein PTEN, which reduces insulin resistance and increases protection against type 2 diabetes. This discovery provides a potential therapeutic target for improving muscle responses to insulin and treating the disease.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2015

Barriers to end-of-life care discussions identified

A Canadian multicenter survey of over 1,200 hospital-based clinicians identified key barriers to end-of-life care discussions with seriously ill patients and their families. The study found that factors such as difficulty accepting a poor prognosis, limited understanding of life-sustaining treatments, and disagreements among family mem...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

One punch to knock out flu

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 14, 2015

New research reveals what to discuss near life's end

A study published in CMAJ found that hospitalized patients and families prioritize discussing preferences for care, patient values, prognosis of illness, fears or concerns, and additional questions regarding care. However, these elements are infrequently discussed, leading to low concordance between preferred and prescribed goals of care.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 3, 2014