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Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research study links altered blood flow in the brain

A new study by the Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research has found a link between altered blood flow in the brain and slow gait and falls in elderly people. Seniors with abnormal blood flow changes were more likely to experience falls, highlighting the importance of exercise and treatment for high blood pressure in preventing ...

Doppler ultrasound in pregnancy reduces risk in high-risk groups

A new Cochrane Systematic Review suggests that Doppler ultrasound can reduce infant deaths and caesarean sections in high-risk pregnancies by monitoring fetal health. However, the quality of the included studies is questionable, and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJan 19, 2010

Gene therapy and stem cells save limb

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed therapies using gene therapy and stem cells to increase blood flow, improve movement, and decrease tissue death. The findings hold promise for developing clinical therapies to save limbs from amputation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2009

Slipper-shaped blood cells

Red blood cells can deform into an asymmetrical slipper shape when flowing through arteries, a phenomenon that affects blood flow. Simulations suggest this deformation helps the cells catch up with fluid, leading to more efficient blood flow.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 26, 2009

Balance organs affect brain blood flow

Researchers found that stimulation of inner ear balance organs affects brain blood flow in opposition to changes in blood pressure. The study may lead to new treatment options for conditions such as aging-related vestibular loss and orthostatic intolerance.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateSep 22, 2009

Your brain on -- and off -- caffeine

Researchers studied brain electrical activity and blood flow during caffeine withdrawal, finding increased brain blood flow and changes in EEG that relate to common withdrawal symptoms. The study also showed no net beneficial effects of chronic caffeine administration.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateMay 1, 2009

Shining light on diabetes-related blindness

Researchers have developed a new way to detect early stages of diabetic retinopathy using beams of light to measure blood flow in the back of the eye. This technique may provide a more quantitative and less invasive method for diagnosing the condition, potentially cutting costs.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 11, 2009

Mesh-like network of arteries adjusts to restore blood flow to stroke-injured brain

Researchers discovered that small arteries at the brain's surface redirect and widen to maintain a constant blood supply after a stroke. The mesh-like vascular network enables the arteries to compensate for reduced blood cell velocity by increasing diameter, ensuring steady delivery of oxygen and nutrients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJan 30, 2009

Is sildenafil safe in cirrhosis patients?

Research on sildenafil use in cirrhosis patients found that it does not induce profound changes in splanchnic blood flow and portal hypertension. The study suggests phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibition is not a useful therapeutic agent for alleviating portal hypertension in end-stage liver disease.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateNov 11, 2008

Study: Even occasional smoking can impair arteries

A new University of Georgia study found that even occasional cigarette smoking can decrease arterial responsiveness by up to 36% in young, healthy adults. Repeated bouts of smoking further impaired flow-mediated dilation, indicating a potential long-term risk for cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateOct 7, 2008