Articles tagged with Blood
The risk of catching Ebola from a survivor is very low, with most body fluids cleared within weeks apart from semen. Studies found that infected blood is the most infectious, but social contact poses little risk.
Researchers found that wealthier seniors in Ontario were prescribed a new blood thinner more often than poorer seniors, but access improved when the drug was covered by publicly funded plans. The study highlights socioeconomic barriers to accessing new medications and calls for timely reimbursement decisions by provinces.
A new medication called idarucizumab reverses the blood-thinning effects of dabigatran in patients with brain hemorrhage, allowing for quicker treatment and reducing complications. The study showed that idarucizumab effectively reversed dabigatran's anticoagulant effects in 90% of patients.
A phase-3 clinical trial has demonstrated the effectiveness of clot-busting therapy in reducing mortality and post-stroke disability in patients with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. The treatment significantly reduced death rates by 10% and improved functional recovery in patients with larger clots.
A large nationwide study found that testosterone treatment improved sexual desire and function, as well as mood and depressive symptoms, in men with low testosterone levels. The treatment also showed no significant increase in cardiovascular issues.
Researchers found three genetic variants linked to increased blood clot risk in African Americans, affecting thrombomodulin expression. Approximately 36% of Africans carry these variants, doubling their risk for venous thromboembolism.
Researchers found that brain imaging can accurately predict patient outcomes and identify those who may benefit from clot removal up to 18 hours after symptom onset. This approach could improve treatment eligibility and outcomes for ischemic stroke patients.
Researchers found that people with migraines with aura are more likely to have strokes caused by blood clots in the heart or brain's blood vessels. Migraine with aura patients were 2.4 times more likely to have an ischemic stroke, and three times more likely to have a cardio-embolic stroke.
The 'NewSTEPs 360' program aims to improve timeliness measures in newborn screening, resulting in more infants receiving early treatment for rare but serious conditions. The initiative provides quality improvement training and technical assistance to selected states, aiming to reduce delays in diagnosis and save lives.
Researchers tested a peptide vaccine targeting Ang II in rats, finding high levels of anti-Ang II antibodies protected against stroke-induced brain damage. The vaccine also showed potential for long-term blood pressure reduction, offering a promising therapy for hypertension and stroke prevention.
Researchers analyzed data from 10 Michigan hospitals to show significant variation in peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) use, with nearly one in four PICCs removed within five days. The study also found wide variation in complication rates, including serious and life-threatening events such as blood clots and infections.
A new study has identified four genes associated with leptin levels, providing insight into the complex relationship between body fat and hunger. The findings have important implications for understanding obesity and developing targeted treatments.
Researchers at Umea University have found that the protein FGF21 redistributes fatty acids through two mechanisms, leading to improved pharmaceutical treatment options for obesity-related diseases. The study also shows that FGF21 can activate the enzyme Lipoprotein lipase, increasing the hydrolytic cleavage and uptake of blood lipids.
Researchers have deciphered the genome of the blacklegged tick, revealing secrets to its success as a disease vector. The study identifies genes and protein families that shed light on why ticks excel at spreading pathogens, providing potential targets for new interventions.
A recent study from Lund University found that barley can rapidly improve people's health by reducing blood sugar levels and risk for diabetes. The special mixture of dietary fibres in barley stimulates the increase of good bacteria and the release of important hormones.
Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanism that regulates how the heart pumps blood, with titin protein identified as key player. The study's findings could lead to new medications more effectively treating heart failure.
The Zika virus is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which also spread dengue and chikungunya viruses. Physicians should be aware of symptoms in travelers returning from affected regions and consider Guillain-Barré syndrome and microcephaly as potential complications.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new blood test that can determine an individual's vulnerability to stress and PTSD. The test combines genetic testing with brain imaging to identify a specific alteration in the expression of microRNA miR-29c, which is linked to slow recovery from stress.
A new investigation by The BMJ questions the validity of a pivotal trial supporting rivaroxaban's approval, citing concerns over a faulty blood clotting test device. Doctors and scientists are now calling for an independent investigation and access to original trial data to clarify the drug's benefits and harms.
A follow-up study found most vaccinated children maintained anti-hepatitis A antibodies until age 15-16 years, suggesting protection for at least 30 years. The findings support current US vaccine recommendations and do not require booster doses.
A comprehensive review reveals frequent opportunities for HCV exposure in Ghana, including traditional practices like circumcision and home births. The study found a substantial genetic diversity of HCV-2, confirming its long epidemic history in the country.
A study of nearly 1 million Ontario adults found that preoperative laboratory tests were conducted prior to approximately 30% of low-risk surgical procedures. The rate of these tests varied significantly among institutions, with some performing them in over 98% of cases and others in none.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found an association between obesity and the formation of blood clots in children and adolescents. Obesity was a statistically significant predictor of blood clot formation in juveniles, contributing to increased incidence of pediatric venous thromboembolism.
A recent study published in Circulation found that cangrelor reduces the odds of major adverse cardiovascular events by 35 percent and stent thrombosis by 61 percent in women compared to standard therapy. The research provides important reassurance on the safety and efficacy of blood thinners in women.
Men with high urate levels have a lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease, according to a study published in Neurology. The study found that men with the highest urate levels were nearly 40% less likely to develop the disease.
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that a common gene mutation in healthy children improves blood lipid profiles while raising liver values. The TM6SF2 gene mutation was associated with lower triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, as well as higher ALT values indicative of changes in liver metabolism.
The study reveals that the source of stem cells used for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with bone marrow failure varies worldwide. Bone marrow is predominantly used in the Americas and Europe, while cord blood and peripheral blood stem cells are more commonly used in other regions.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai are working on a new risk assessment tool to identify patients susceptible to sudden cardiac arrest. The goal is to predict those at risk for the fatal heart rhythm malfunction, which claims 350,000 lives annually in the US.
A quick screening method has been used to identify and test promising anti-Ebola drugs. The method, which allows for the evaluation of candidate drugs and comparison of antiviral effectiveness, has shown potential in reducing the emergence of drug resistance and increasing confidence in experimental results.
A new study found that a blood test monitoring dead cancer cell DNA is superior at tracking the severity and potential spread of metastatic melanoma. This non-invasive test detected cancer recurrence in 85% of patients, compared to 54% with the current standard test.
Researchers have developed a blood test to predict the development of preeclampsia, enabling early diagnosis and prevention of complications. The test measures the ratio of serum sFlt-1 to PlGF proteins, allowing for reliable prediction within one week.
A $13.5 million funding award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will support a study analyzing the safety and effectiveness of three blood-thinning drugs used to prevent post-surgery blood clots in patients undergoing hip and knee replacement.
Researchers found that infusing a small amount of IL-17A can prevent or reverse diabetic nephropathy in animal models. The therapy also reduced high levels of fat in the blood and aided survival and regeneration of key kidney cells, including podocytes and epithelial cells.
Researchers have identified two genetic variants, ABCA7 and MA4A6A, associated with brain atrophy in Alzheimer's disease. The study found that protein levels in the blood produced by these genes could be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and potential treatment.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Hematology found that women on blood thinners can take hormone-containing contraception or hormone replacement therapy without an increased risk of blood clots or uterine bleeding. The study analyzed data from 1,888 women and showed similar incidence rates of blood clots and a...
A study found that people scoring well on the Life's Simple 7 checklist for a healthy heart have lower risk of developing heart failure. The measures include managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, as well as getting physically active, eating better, losing weight, and quitting smoking.
A new study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that more than half of patients who experience sudden cardiac arrest ignore key symptoms prior to the event. These symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations, occurring up to a month before the fatal heart rhythm malfunction.
Researchers found that maintaining potassium levels low in an insect's blood is crucial for survival during cold exposure. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that the Malpighian tubules play a key role in regulating salt balance in insects.
A 14-year study found that annual screening with a blood test utilizing the Risk of Ovarian Cancer Algorithm (ROCA) significantly reduced mortality from ovarian cancer, particularly in women without evidence of cancer at study entry. The results showed a 20% reduction in risk of dying from ovarian cancer.
Researchers at New York University found that individuals with autism have unstable blood vessels, disrupting brain function and circulation. The study identified a correlation between angiogenesis and neurogenesis, potentially leading to novel therapeutic interventions.
A small study found that watching horror movies significantly increased blood coagulant factor VIII levels in young and healthy adults, suggesting a physiological response to fear. The researchers argue that this increase is an evolutionary adaptation to prepare the body for blood loss during life-threatening situations.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania found that the CAP2 gene is responsible for cardiac conduction disease in mice, leading to sudden cardiac death. The researchers also discovered that the gene's absence affects the heart's ability to contract and regulate blood flow.
Researchers have found novel mechanisms to inhibit chikungunya virus at multiple stages of infection, including entry and release from cells. The discovery could lead to the development of a single vaccine that protects against multiple alphaviruses.
A Johns Hopkins study suggests that individualized report cards improve VTE prevention efforts, increasing correct therapy use and resident performance. The approach also boosted trainee morale, with a significant spike in resident satisfaction scores.
A large US study found that over half of patients with controlled type 2 diabetes receive more tests than recommended guidelines, leading to overtreatment and potential patient harm. The study also highlights fragmented care coordination as a possible reason for repeat tests.
Researchers at UC San Diego are investigating DNA methylation in the blood as a potential signature for Parkinson's disease. The study, funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment of the chronic movement disorder.
A new study has found that combining the blood thinner warfarin with certain diabetes medications increases hospitalizations for falls, altered mental state, and insulin shock among Medicare patients. The study's findings have significant implications for patient safety and healthcare costs.
A systematic review of 440 participants found that nail varnish affects oxygen saturation measurements by up to 2%, but this is within error margins and not significant in clinical practice. Modern devices with high-performance LED technology can accurately measure oxygen saturation despite nail varnish.
Researchers have discovered a blood test for the SNTF protein, which may predict long-term cognitive impairments in concussion patients. The study suggests that even mild concussions can cause permanent damage to brain wiring, leading to cognitive impairment.
Research led by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that blood from preschoolers contains molecular evidence of prenatal smoking exposure, detectable 5 years post-birth. The study uses epigenetic analysis to identify a signature associated with smoking during pregnancy, which may also be linked to other toxins and hea...
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed an insulin pill using novel drug delivery technology that shows early promise as a form of diabetes therapy. The pill's oral delivery system could circumvent the discomfort associated with injections, leading to improved patient compliance and potentially more effective treatment.
A large-scale study of newly arrived refugee children in the US has identified key public health concerns, including hepatitis B, tuberculosis, and parasitic worms. The study suggests that existing medical screening guidelines remain relevant but recommends further analysis and resource allocation for refugee populations.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed an antidote that reverses the effects of two new blood thinners, apixaban and rivaroxaban, within minutes. This breakthrough may help save lives by quickly reversing bleeding complications in emergency situations.
Researchers developed a new therapy by pairing snake venom with nanofibers to promote localized blood clotting at wound sites. The therapy, tested on rats treated with heparin, shows promise for making surgery safer for human patients on blood thinners.
Scientists found that asymptomatic people can infect mosquitoes with dengue virus, representing three-quarters of all dengue infections. This challenges existing theories and highlights the potential for these individuals to contribute to the spread of the virus.
A new study found that short bursts of high-intensity exercise improved cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight among Type 2 diabetes patients. Researchers compared the effects of 30 minutes of lower-intensity exercise to three months of high-intensity exercise in 10-minute bursts, finding a significant difference in outcomes.
Researchers found that individuals with better blood sugar control after consuming barley kernel bread had a different balance of gut microbes. The study suggests the importance of individualized dietary guidelines based on gut microbiota. Further studies are planned to confirm the findings and develop combination products with Prevote...
Researchers are developing a simple, inexpensive blood test that can detect the risk of Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome. The test aims to identify people who will develop the disease before cognitive symptoms appear.
A new blood test has been developed to detect foetal blood group, sex, and genetic conditions in unborn babies with high accuracy. The test is non-invasive and costs a fraction of traditional amniocentesis tests.
The FIGHT study found that liraglutide, a type-2 diabetes drug, did not improve the clinical stability or pumping action of the heart in patients with advanced heart failure. Researchers discovered no significant favorable effects of liraglutide on heart function or quality of life among participants.