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New robot does superior job sampling blood

A new robot created by Rutgers University has performed as well or better than humans in blood sampling, providing quick results and reducing complications. The device includes an ultrasound-guided robot that draws blood from veins, and could be used in various medical procedures to improve patient outcomes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateFeb 6, 2020

Do elevated mercury levels in the blood increase skin cancer risk?

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that higher mercury levels in the blood are associated with an increased prevalence of non-melanoma skin cancer. Participants with high total or methyl mercury levels had nearly double or 1.7 times greater odds of non-melanoma skin cancer, respectively.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Elevated fasting blood sugar in pregnancy linked to harmful outcomes for mothers, babies

A new study by the University of Alberta found that pregnant women with elevated fasting blood sugar levels are at a higher risk of complications, including large babies, high blood pressure, and preterm births. Despite receiving diabetes drug treatments, these women were more likely to experience adverse outcomes.

Human longevity largest study of its kind shows early detection of disease & disease risks

A groundbreaking study published in PNAS used a multi-modal precision health platform to identify adults at risk of key health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. The study found that integrating whole-genome sequencing with advanced imaging and blood metabolites led to clinically significant findin...

SourceMerryman Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2020

Do studies underestimate the prevalence of typhoid?

A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that typhoid prevalence is likely higher than estimated due to missed blood cultures, with patients more likely to have cultures if older, feverish or suspected urinary tract infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 16, 2020

Reducing the risk of blood clots in artificial heart valves

Researchers have identified a mechanism that contributes to clot formation in mechanical heart valves. By modifying the valve's design, turbulent vortices can be eliminated, reducing the risk of blood clots and strokes. This breakthrough could lead to life without blood thinners for thousands of people with artificial heart valves.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateJan 13, 2020

Directly measuring function in tiny hearts

Researchers at Children's National Hospital developed a direct measurement technique for cardiac output in newborns, utilizing changes in blood velocity after injecting saline. The study used ultrasound dilution and reported promising results, with potential implications for personalized care of critically ill newborns.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS AND NEONATAL MEDICINE·DateJan 8, 2020

Intermittent fasting: live 'fast,' live longer?

A review article published in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that intermittent fasting can improve blood sugar regulation, increase resistance to stress, and suppress inflammation. Studies have shown that this adaptation may trigger a slower metabolic process, which can lead to weight loss and reduced belly fat.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 25, 2019

High doses of vitamin D for critically ill patients yield minimal benefit

A large study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that high doses of vitamin D do not reduce mortality or improve non-fatal outcomes in critically ill patients. The Vitamin D to Improve Outcomes by Leveraging Early Treatment (VIOLET) study included over 200 researchers and showed no difference in mortality rates, hos...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Beta blocker use identified as hospitalization risk factor in 'stiff heart' heart failure

Researchers found that beta-blockers increase the risk of hospitalizations for heart failure among patients with 'stiff heart' heart failure, characterized by a normal squeeze but impaired relaxation of the heart muscle. Beta-blocker use was associated with a 74% higher risk of hospitalizations in this patient population.

Blood test for deadly eye melanoma

Researchers at University of Queensland have discovered markers in blood that differentiate benign moles from melanoma, as well as detect cancer spread to other areas. The blood test may monitor very early signs of the disease, allowing for better screening of patients with eye naevi.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·DateNov 14, 2019