Articles tagged with Blood
Scientists at UAlberta and McGill University have discovered a direct link between calcium and cholesterol, finding that a lack of calcium can hide cholesterol from the cell's machinery. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for high blood cholesterol and heart disease.
A genetic predisposition to higher blood calcium levels is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack. The study used mendelian randomization to examine the association between serum calcium levels and CAD, finding a link between the two.
Researchers found that memantine significantly reduced blood levels of neuron-specific enolase, a marker of neuronal damage, in patients with moderate TBI. The study also showed marked improvements in Glasgow Coma Scale scores on day 3, indicating potential therapeutic benefits.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect amyloid beta plaques in the brain, a key characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. The test measures levels of three different amyloid subtypes and has been shown to be highly accurate in identifying individuals with altered levels of amyloid in their brains.
A new saliva test developed by Johns Hopkins researchers matches the performance of a widely used blood test for diagnosing hepatitis E virus infection. The test has the potential to ease and speed up research into the disease, which affects an estimated 20 million people worldwide each year.
Researchers at University at Buffalo successfully tested a pre-hospital intervention that raises blood pressure in simulated trauma victims experiencing blood loss. Face cooling was shown to increase and maintain blood pressure during the simulation.
Researchers found elevated levels of two brain injury markers, neurofilament light chain and tau, in active professional fighters compared to retired fighters or non-fighters. These markers may signify permanent traumatic brain injury with long-term consequences.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a soft artificial heart made from silicone that mimics the human heart's form and function. The device lasts only 3,000 beats but paves the way for future improvements in artificial hearts.
A new therapy, idarucizumab, has been shown to rapidly reverse the effects of the blood thinner dabigatran in patients with life-threatening bleeding or emergency surgery needs. The study found that idarucizumab was able to stop bleeding within 2.5 hours and allow surgery to begin at a median of 1.6 hours after administration.
Forensic scientists at Nagoya University have successfully extracted human DNA from mosquitoes' stomachs and amplified it using PCR techniques. The team found that human DNA remained viable in mosquito blood for up to two days after feeding, providing a new tool for crime scene investigators.
Researchers discovered that sea spiders use gut peristalsis to move blood and oxygen throughout their bodies, not hearts. This unique system allows for efficient gas transport and highlights the diversity of solutions in animal physiology.
A new circular RNA marker has been identified in blood and lung tissue, associated with increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. High expression of this marker may improve lung cancer screening and detection at late stages.
Researchers at NIST have measured the vapor pressure of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a fundamental property for developing accurate marijuana breathalyzers. The study uses PLOT-cryo technology to capture and analyze THC molecules, providing crucial groundwork for manufacturers.
A recent analysis of US dialysis facility data found that central venous catheters are associated with the most bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated pathogen, with 40% of isolates resistant to antibiotic methicillin.
A team of scientists is using a combination of satellite and ground data to identify monkey populations that have declined through hunting. This approach combines indicators such as human activity zones, mosquito-derived DNA, animal sound recordings, and detections of other species found when monkeys are present.
Broccoli extract containing sulforaphane has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in patients with type-2 diabetes, targeting the liver's elevated glucose production and offering a mild side-effect profile.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new surgical tool using low-frequency intravascular ultrasound to break down blood clots. The tool breaks down clots into fine particles, reducing the need for high doses of blood thinners and potentially lowering treatment time.
A phase III clinical trial showed that combining lesinurad with febuxostat was more effective at lowering blood urate levels than febuxostat alone. The combination group achieved target urate levels in significantly more patients over 12 months.
A new blood test has been identified to predict the onset and track the progression of Huntington's disease. The test measures neurofilament levels in the blood, which increase throughout the course of the disease, even in carriers of the genetic mutation.
Researchers found that delayed meal times significantly affect blood sugar levels, with later meals causing a delay of over 5 hours in internal rhythms. The study suggests that timed meals could be beneficial for individuals with circadian rhythm disorders.
Research on mango consumption found potential benefits for metabolic disorders and inflammation, with improved blood pressure and gut health observed in human studies. The superfruit's galloyl derivatives showed anti-inflammatory activities and altered the gut microbiota and metabolism in lean and obese subjects.
A Michigan State University study has found that Charlie Kimball's optimized blood sugar levels and physiological monitoring help him capture top-5 finishes at the Indianapolis 500. The research also enabled Kimball to compete equally with other drivers, despite having Type 1 diabetes.
Chronic anabolic steroid use can lead to reduced heart function, including impaired pumping capacity and increased blood pressure. The study found strong associations between lifetime duration of illicit anabolic steroid use and plaque build-up in coronary arteries, highlighting the critical need for clinicians to monitor this population.
Researchers developed a 'good heart' muffin to help reduce the risk of heart disease through soluble fibre, meeting food standard guidelines for cholesterol-lowering properties. The muffins contain three grams of beta glucans, a healthy ingredient found in oats and cereals.
Researchers found correlations between blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids and fluid intelligence in healthy elderly adults, suggesting a potential role for dietary intake of these nutrients. The studies also linked the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to memory preservation and brain structure.
The DAWN trial shows that mechanical thrombectomy with medical therapy improves functional independence and decreases post-stroke disability in selected patients. Patients treated with the retrieval system had a 35% better outcome at 90 days compared to those who received medication alone.
Research led by University of Queensland scientist Associate Professor Bryan Fry reveals that brown snake venom attacks the nervous system in young snakes and circulatory system in older ones. This transformation allows the venom to become more potent and deadly, causing internal bleeding and death in humans.
A new study combines traditional CHA2DS2-VASc risk score with the Intermountain Mortality Risk Score to provide more accurate evaluations of atrial fibrillation patients' individual risks. This allows for better decision-making regarding blood thinners use, taking into account both clinical and biological factors.
Researchers have found a link between elevated beta-2 microglobulin levels and an increased risk of ischemic stroke in women. The study, conducted on over 900 participants, suggests that this protein may serve as a marker for inflammation and could potentially help identify people at higher risk of stroke.
A diet high in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, but low in salt, sugary drinks, and red meat, is associated with a lower risk of gout. The DASH diet has been found to reduce blood pressure and uric acid levels, suggesting it may also lower gout risk.
A new study reveals that cerebral veins play a crucial role in regulating the brain's blood flow by storing and releasing blood throughout the cardiac cycle. This finding has significant implications for understanding diseases such as vascular dementia and normal pressure hydrocephalus.
A meta-analysis of prospective studies reveals that individuals with non-O blood groups (A, B, AB) are at a higher risk of heart attacks and overall cardiovascular mortality. The study found a 9% increased risk of coronary events and cardiovascular mortality in non-O blood group carriers compared to O blood group carriers.
A large Danish cohort study found that antibiotic use is associated with lower enterolignan concentrations in the blood, especially for women. The study suggests that antibiotics can negatively affect intestinal bacteria's ability to metabolize plant lignans into enterolignans.
Researchers discovered a positive relationship between exercise and vitamin D levels in reducing cardiovascular disease risks. The study found that exercising regularly boosted vitamin D stores, while adequate vitamin D levels also protected against heart attacks and strokes.
Routine blood tests are wasteful and potentially damaging, argue experts in The BMJ. They highlight the need for clinicians to rethink what counts as 'routine' when ordering laboratory tests.
Studies reveal that genes involved in immune regulation are linked to brain thickness and memory functions, particularly emotional experiences. A specific gene variant is also associated with increased activity in regions of the brain important for traumatic memories.
A new study suggests that applying an ice bag to the face could help prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure after blood loss, potentially saving lives among first responders. The technique was tested on healthy volunteers and showed promising results.
A research team solved the century-old mystery of Blood Falls by using radar technology to detect brine feeding the famous red waterfall. They discovered that liquid water can persist inside extremely cold glaciers, challenging previous thought on this phenomenon.
The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against routine screening for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in low-risk adults due to lack of direct evidence on benefits and harms. The guideline aims to focus healthcare resources on individuals at elevated risk, where treatment is proven to be beneficial.
The new blood test can accurately and quickly identify genetic mutations associated with NSCLC, allowing clinicians to make earlier, individualized treatment choices. The test showed high sensitivity and specificity for detecting each type of mutation, and results were available within 72 hours.
A new study reveals that a signal in blood, called Hepatocyte Growth Factor Activator (HGFA), can alert stem cells to heal faster and more efficiently after an injury. By injecting HGFA into mice before an injury, researchers showed improved tissue repair, quicker recovery, and better regeneration of damaged tissues.
Researchers found that men with lower magnesium levels had an increased risk of fractures, particularly hip fractures. Higher magnesium levels were associated with a reduced risk of fractures, with no cases reported among those with very high magnesium levels.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens found that lactate produced in the upper throat can initiate the dispersal of Neisseria meningitidis microcolonies, allowing the bacteria to invade the body and cause meningitis. The researchers suggest that high concentrations of lactate serve as a signaling molecule for bacterial dispersal.
Holiday Retirement received the 2017 Franz Edelman Award for its innovative use of operations research to develop a revenue management system that optimizes pricing across all its senior living communities. The award recognizes the significant impact of this achievement on organizational efficiency and profitability.
A new rule developed by Canadian researchers could help hundreds of thousands of women stop taking life-long blood thinners for unexplained vein blood clots. According to the HERDOO2 rule, half of women with unprovoked clots are at low risk of recurrence, allowing them to discontinue medication.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that combining five simple tests provides a broader and more accurate assessment of heart-disease risk. The tests, including an EKG, blood tests, and imaging, better predict who will develop heart disease compared to standard strategies.
Scientists have developed a method to track perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in the body, with the highest amounts recorded in the stomach and liver. The study found that PFAS accumulate in multiple organs, including the lungs, kidney, heart, brain, skin, muscle, and bone.
Researchers discovered blood-sucking flies can act as 'flying syringes' to detect emerging infectious diseases in wild animals. The method analyzes the origin of the blood and species of malaria parasites present, with potential implications for controlling global outbreaks.
A study found childhood lead exposure was associated with lower adult IQ scores and socioeconomic status, indicating cognitive decline and downward social mobility. The research suggests long-term effects of lead exposure on brain health and socioeconomic trajectories.
A long-term study of over 500 children found that higher blood lead levels in childhood were associated with lower IQ points and lower adult occupational standing. The effects are slight but significant, suggesting that even small amounts of lead exposure can have lasting impacts on cognitive abilities.
Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute develop a prototype lab-on-a-chip platform for automating molecular pathogen detection, enabling diagnostics in previously inaccessible situations. The platform integrates multiple processes without increasing complexity, promising to simplify pathogen analysis.
A recent study found that direct acting oral anticoagulants and aspirin may increase heart attack risk compared to vitamin k antagonists like warfarin. Researchers are urging more research on the topic as use of these medications increases.
The collaboration aims to advance therapies for stroke patients by analyzing and characterizing clots from European and US patients. This research has the potential to improve treatment options for the estimated 15 million strokes that occur worldwide each year.
A new study found that genotyping and personalized warfarin dosing can lower the risk of certain adverse events, such as bleeding and blood clots. The Genetic InFormatics Trial showed a 27% reduction in adverse events with genotype-guided dosing compared to clinically guided dosing.
A recent study found that Embol-X and CardioGard devices did not significantly reduce overall number of brain infarcts during aortic valve replacement, but may affect size. However, patients treated with these devices experienced reduced delirium after surgery. Further research is needed to clarify potential health outcomes.
A new study found that patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) taking digoxin are at a higher risk of death, regardless of heart failure status. The risk increases with higher levels of digoxin in the bloodstream.
A new study found that closing the left atrial appendage during cardiac surgery significantly reduces thromboembolism risk, a leading cause of stroke, by 40%. The procedure also shows promise for patients who cannot take anticoagulant medications.
A large international study found that rivaroxaban is more effective and safer than aspirin at preventing recurrent blood clots. The study showed that patients taking rivaroxaban had significantly lower rates of recurrent clots compared to those taking aspirin.
Researchers combined two independent risk measurements to improve stroke and mortality predictions in atrial fibrillation patients. The new tool provides a more accurate scale of low and high risk, helping physicians determine the need for blood thinners in treatment.
Researchers found that patients with persistent AF who are successfully treated with ablation may no longer need blood thinners. In fact, 174 participants discontinued blood thinner use at some point in the three years, and 174 remained off blood thinners at their last follow-up.