Research on blood and what it reveals about health. Covers blood biomarkers, occupational exposure, cell-preservation for CAR-T therapy, and blood supply.
A five-year program project grant will investigate the genetic basis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). The research aims to develop a more personalized medicine approach to ARDS and VILI, enabling physicians to make informed medical decisions.
A study from the University of Edinburgh found that older people in Japan were less likely to experience a deterioration of existing chronic conditions after the Fukushima earthquake and nuclear meltdown. In contrast, urban dwellers showed a higher decline in managing their blood sugar levels.
Researchers have developed a new method to measure the amount of blood in dry blood spots using electrical conductivity, which is accurate within one percent and uses up none of the sample. This technique has the potential to revolutionize dry blood spot analysis for clinical trials and large-scale epidemiology studies.
A Phase II trial suggests that brentuximab vedotin can cure some patients with Hodgkin lymphoma who have relapsed despite previous therapies. The study reports that 13 of 34 patients who achieved complete remission remained disease-free for over five years.
Research reveals specific gut microbiota imbalances contribute to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. The study identified two bacteria, Prevotella copri and Bacteroides vulgatus, as key drivers of BCAA production, leading to insulin resistance in mice.
A new clinical study found that exclusive e-cigarette use significantly reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation. The study measured biomarkers in urine, blood, and exhaled breath, revealing reductions of over 75% in carbon monoxide levels and over 80% in volatile organic compounds.
A recent study reveals that nearly 60 percent of people have preclinical heart failure stages A and B, with stage B individuals at increased risk for death. The findings highlight the importance of targeting prevention efforts at the earliest HF stages to avoid death, particularly among men and older adults.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have confirmed that a benign bacterium called Wolbachia pipientis can completely block transmission of Zika virus in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The bacteria, which are self-sustainable and low-cost, can also reduce vector competence in mosquitoes and impact their infection status.
Researchers at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute are studying the relationship between Zika virus and mosquitoes to develop better controlling methods. They aim to target specific species of mosquitoes that transmit the virus, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are widely distributed in the U.S.
A woman was admitted to intensive care due to a rare infection believed to be transmitted by her Italian greyhound, while a teenage girl had pinworms in her appendix. A 26-year-old student also developed lead poisoning from taking Indian Ayurvedic herbal medicines.
Research suggests that patients with MSA have lower levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in their blood, regardless of COQ2 genotype. This finding may support the idea that CoQ10 supplementation could be beneficial for MSA patients. However, more studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Researchers at Cornell University have identified biological markers of chronic fatigue syndrome in gut bacteria and inflammatory microbial agents in the blood. This breakthrough discovery offers a new approach to diagnosing ME/CFS through stool samples and blood work.
Researchers found nearly 40% of AF patients at intermediate to high risk for stroke treated with aspirin alone, despite previous data showing blood thinners more beneficial. The study highlights the need for cardiology specialists to adhere to standardized recommendations regarding the use of oral blood thinners.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new blood test to measure levels of hematoma-derived growth factor (HDGF), which rise predict survival in patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Higher levels of HDGF are linked to more extensive heart failure and poorer outcomes.
Researchers at UT Dallas develop an affordable electronic nose using CMOS integrated circuits technology, allowing for breath analysis in various health diagnoses. The device can detect low levels of chemicals present in human breath with high specificity and sensitivity.
A study on mice suggests that endometriosis has a distinct lipid profile that could lead to a less invasive diagnostic test. The researchers found a difference in lipid metabolism between mice with the disorder and control animals.
The study found that Varroa mites prefer infesting adult bees at mid-age, or during the nurse phase, which takes care of larvae. This preference significantly affects the mite's reproductive fitness and success later on.
Zika virus is likely transmitted through blood transfusions, prompting calls for evidence-based approach to protect the blood supply. Researchers recommend deferring donors with symptoms, developing better screening tests, and reducing pathogen transmission.
A team of researchers has discovered a receptor on the legs of mosquitoes that, when activated, makes female mosquitoes fly away. This finding could lead to novel mosquito repellents and potentially disrupt the life cycle of disease-spreading mosquitoes.
The SpecID system combines detection and identification into a single step, offering faster answers and streamlined workflow for clinical microbiology laboratories. The $2.8M award supports the development of quality and manufacturing systems required for regulatory clearance, bridging the gap between manufacture and clinical trials.
A genetic blood test called NETest measures specific genes in the blood that define and predict responsiveness to PRRT. The test was found to be more than 90% accurate in predicting therapy response and non-response, with 73% of low-grade tumors responding to treatment.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a unique method to detect antibodies in the blood, enabling simple diagnostic tests for diseases without known microbial causes. This approach successfully led to the detection of HIV antibodies and holds potential for diagnosing various conditions with just a single drop of bl...
Scientists have identified a new biomarker for nerve cell damage that can be measured in the blood, providing valuable information on disease progression and treatment response. The discovery offers a potential breakthrough for developing therapies and could simplify clinical trials by using a simple blood sample.
Systemic glucocorticoids increase risk of life-threatening staph infections by 2.5 times, with higher doses associated with greater risk
A clinical trial showed that stem cells from umbilical cord blood significantly reduced Eczema Area and Severity Index scores by 50% in high-dose patients. Immune-related markers of atopic dermatitis also decreased, with persistent improvement throughout the 12-week follow-up period.
Pediatric leukemia patients exposed to higher concentrations of methotrexate are more likely to struggle with mental flexibility, organization, and related skills as long-term survivors. Brain imaging revealed changes in brain regions associated with executive functioning, including increased activity in the frontal lobe region.
A wearable artificial kidney has been shown to effectively clear waste products from the blood while maintaining electrolyte balance. The device, still requiring redesign for technical issues, offers an alternative to conventional hemodialysis, providing greater patient satisfaction and mobility.
Researchers found that female atrial fibrillation patients are less likely than men to receive blood thinning therapies. The study used a computerized decision support tool to review medical therapies for over 1,500 patients and found significant sex differences in treatment.
Researchers found progranulin levels in cerebrospinal fluid differ from those in blood, challenging its use as a biomarker for neurodegenerative diseases. This discovery sheds new light on the biological processes underlying Alzheimer's and other common neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers analyzed untreated acute stroke patients and found no correlation between salvageable penumbra and time. However, they discovered a significant association between salvaged penumbra and collateral blood flow rerouting of the blocked arteries.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that exposure to common flame retardant chemicals may increase the risk of thyroid disease in women, particularly post-menopausal women. Women with higher levels of these chemicals in their blood are more likely to develop thyroid problems.
Researchers found that combining TXA delivery methods reduced blood loss by 37% compared to IV alone following TKR. The study showed no thromboembolic complications, with one patient requiring a postoperative blood transfusion.
Researchers at Penn Vet found that a common blood test may also indicate hypercoagulability in animals. A study of hundreds of dogs found that shortened prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were associated with clinical signs of hypercoagulability, including clots and suspected pulmonary thromboembolism.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a new gene linked to familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder causing very high blood cholesterol. High levels of lipoprotein(a) in the blood increase heart attack risk by five times.
A computerized decision support tool helps physicians and patients make informed decisions about blood thinning treatment to prevent strokes in individuals with atrial fibrillation. The tool, which takes into account patient characteristics and medical therapies, resulted in a significant reduction in deviations from recommended treatm...
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed a simple in-home screening device to monitor blood-clotting levels, reducing frequent lab tests and costs. The paper-based test stick can quickly reveal changes in coagulation properties, allowing patients to detect potential issues early.
Researchers found that patients treated with as-needed blood thinners and regular pulse monitoring had lower stroke risk compared to those taking long-term anticoagulation medications. The study showed minimal bleeding incidents and no strokes or transient ischemic attacks among participants.
A new study of over 10,000 patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and those without found that AF patients treated with warfarin had higher rates of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia. The study suggests that the efficacy of therapy is strongly associated with dementia risk.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a newborn screening test for Niemann-Pick type C, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that typically isn't diagnosed until age 2. The test quickly identifies infants with NPC using a two-tiered testing strategy and measures levels of bile acid produced by the liver.
A small study by University of Florida researchers suggests that as we age, we may become more sensitive to pain and experience a quicker and higher magnitude inflammation. This could predispose older adults to chronic pain, making anti-inflammatory medication an early treatment option.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that young adults who made small dietary changes and engaged in regular physical activity successfully prevented weight gain. The 'small-change' group lost an average of 1.2 pounds over two to three years, while the 'large-change' group lost nearly 5.2 pounds.
Researchers have identified a hybrid form of the common house mosquito in eastern Austria that can transmit exotic diseases such as West Nile virus. The hybrid mosquitoes can act as bridge vectors, picking up pathogens from their original host birds and potentially transmitting them to other birds or humans.
Patients treated with stent retrievers within 2.5 hours of symptom onset had a 91% chance of functional independence, compared to 81% for those treated between 2.5-3.5 hours. Inter-facility transfer times can significantly delay treatment.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed an ultrathin, ultraflexible, protective layer that enables creation of electronic skin displays. The technology allows for wearable electronic devices to be attached to the body without damaging them.
Patients on warfarin have poor knowledge about diet and drug interactions, which can lead to fatal side effects. Experts recommend consistent monitoring and education to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers have developed a potentially life-saving drug therapy called ALM that can reduce internal blood loss by up to 60% in traumatic injuries. The treatment, administered intravenously, has shown promise in treating shock and stabilizing vital organs.
A new generation of blood thinners can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation without requiring frequent monitoring. However, careful consideration must be given to individual patient factors such as age and kidney function before prescribing these medications.
Researchers are testing blood samples from patients with myasthenia gravis to determine the presence of two new antibodies, agrin and LRP4. The study aims to characterize their clinical symptoms and develop treatment strategies for double-negative patients.
Researchers at Marshall University have found that blocking small cell lung cancer tumors' blood supply can delay their growth and regrowth after treatment. Synthetic molecules like MG624 show promise in delaying cancer relapse and improving patient outcomes.
A University of Virginia study found that false beliefs about biological differences between black and white people contribute to undertreated pain among black patients. White medical students and residents who held these false beliefs showed lower pain ratings and less accurate treatment recommendations for black patients.
Researchers have found a link between lead contamination in Flint's soil and elevated blood levels in local children, particularly in low-income areas. The study suggests that soil lead is an additional factor contributing to the city's ongoing water crisis.
A study found that marathon runners with 'salty' sweat had lower electrolyte levels in their blood despite proper hydration and nutrition. This suggests that sweat electrolyte concentration can impact physiological conditions during long-distance events.
A study by University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health suggests that middle-aged black women have higher levels of a protein in their blood associated with heart disease risk. The research recommends routine blood testing for this population to determine heart disease risk and potentially start therapies.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology detected evidence of concussions in patients up to 7 days after injury using a simple blood test. The discovery could greatly expand the window for diagnosing concussions, especially in children who experience delayed symptoms.
Higher concentrations of BPA in pregnant mothers' blood are associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. The study found that women with higher BPA levels were more likely to deliver their babies early compared to those with lower levels.
Researchers identified biological markers in blood samples from latently infected individuals that can predict the risk of developing active TB. These biomarkers may enable targeted therapies to prevent illness in high-risk individuals.
A new technique enables rapid and accurate measurement of bacteria levels in packaged food and medical samples without physical contact. The method uses tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy and can provide real-time analysis, reducing the risk of food poisoning and improving blood quality.
A new study analyzing 50 years of hemophilia care data found significant disparities in outcomes between men with severe and mild forms of the disease. Men with severe hemophilia were more likely to experience physical limitations, disability, and frequent bleeding despite access to effective therapies. The study emphasizes the need fo...
Researchers found nearly half of AF patients at the highest stroke risk were not prescribed oral anticoagulants, highlighting a significant treatment gap. The study emphasizes the need to address barriers to anticoagulant prescription and optimize risks versus benefits for these high-risk patients.
Researchers have found a correlation between hypogonadism and high Gleason scores in prostate cancer patients. This association could help predict patient outcomes before surgery, allowing for more targeted treatment strategies.