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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

High salt intake could be a risk factor for multiple sclerosis

New research suggests that high salt diets may exacerbate autoimmune neuroinflammation in individuals with specific genetic backgrounds, particularly females. The study found that mice fed a high salt diet exhibited worsened clinical signs of multiple sclerosis, while those with certain genetic variants showed no response to salt.

Study identifies risks related to falling in patients with COPD

A recent year-long study reveals that 40% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience falls, with over 75% falling multiple times. The study identifies several factors linked to an increased risk of falling, including smoking, other illnesses, and taking multiple medications.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateJul 24, 2015

'Successful aging' linked to harmful drinking among over 50s

Research published in BMJ Open found that successful aging is associated with harmful drinking among older adults. Analysis of over 9000 responses from the English Longitudinal Survey of Ageing showed that higher income, better health, and social activity levels are linked to increased risk of hazardous drinking.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 23, 2015

Sitting time not associated with poorer diets in US adults

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that sedentary time was not linked to poorer diets among US adults. However, more sedentary time was associated with a lower intake of empty calories. The researchers suggest targeting reducing and breaking up sedentary time as a separate strategy from encouraging healthy dietary habits.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJul 16, 2015

Experts cover MERS outbreak in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine

The recent MERS-CoV outbreak in Korea spread quickly due to poor infection prevention and control measures, overcrowding, and environmental contamination. The authors emphasize the importance of implementing stringent hospital protocols, contact tracing, and mandatory quarantine for close contacts.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 29, 2015

Diet that mimics fasting appears to slow aging

A new study by USC's Valter Longo suggests that a periodic diet mimicking fasting can cut visceral belly fat, boost neural regeneration and improve learning and memory in old mice. In humans, the pilot study found evidence of reduced risk factors for aging, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer with no major adverse side effects.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 18, 2015

Attention to angry faces can predict future depression

A new study published in Clinical Psychological Science found that women with a past history of depression who pay more attention to angry faces are at greatest risk for developing depression again over the next two years. Researchers used eye-tracking to analyze the attention of 160 women, including those with and without depression, ...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJun 16, 2015

Data scientists find connections between birth month and health

The study found a significant association between birth month and disease risk, with people born in May having the lowest risk of disease and those born in October having the highest. The researchers identified nine types of heart disease that correlated with seasonal effects, including atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJun 8, 2015

Single 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to reflect changing risk factors

A new study suggests that the standard 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to accurately reflect changing risk factors. Researchers found that early readmissions (0-7 days post discharge) were associated with acute illness markers, while late readmissions (8-30 days post discharge) were more closely tied to chronic illness burden.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 2015

Omitting market risk factor creates critical flaw in case-shiller home price indices

A new study reveals that omitting the market risk factor from the Standard & Poor's Case-Shiller Home Price Indices can create a critical flaw, leading to inaccurate estimates. The authors propose an alternative weight model to properly incorporate the market risk factor and demonstrate its impact using empirical evidence.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Real Estate Research·DateMay 27, 2015

Frailer older patients at higher risk of readmission or death after discharge from hospital

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that frailer older patients are at a higher risk of readmission to hospital or death within 30 days after discharge. The researchers assessed the use of the Clinical Frailty Scale, which can help identify patients at high risk of poor outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 25, 2015

Odds are that chronic gamblers are often also depressed

A longitudinal study found that chronic gamblers are more likely to experience depressive problems, with 73% of those with significant gambling issues also suffering from depression. Early prevention programs targeting impulsive individuals and poor relationships with friends may help prevent these issues.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateMay 21, 2015

New risk factor for pregnancies

A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women born preterm have a significantly higher risk of giving birth to preterm children. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,400 Quebec women born preterm and compared it to women born at term, revealing a 13% difference in preterm delivery rates.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 19, 2015