Articles tagged with Blood
Researchers developed a new method to detect isatin, a potential stress biomarker, in blood samples using enzymatic reaction and phase extraction. Isatin levels are elevated in patients with stress, Parkinson's disease, and pregnancy.
A new mobile phone microscope, called CellScope Loa, uses video and automation to detect and quantify infection by parasitic worms in a drop of blood. The device is as accurate as conventional screening methods and can provide critical information for health providers in the field.
Researchers analyzed metabolites in the blood of children undergoing heart surgery for congenital heart disease and found a link between certain molecules and clinical outcome. The presence of ketone bodies correlated with better outcomes, while other metabolites such as citrate, lactate, and alanine were associated with poorer outcomes.
Researchers have developed a mobile phone microscope that can quickly detect parasitic worm levels in blood, enabling safe resumption of mass drug administration campaigns. The device can identify people with high levels of microfilariae in under two minutes, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic analyzed data from over 20,000 patients and found that toxic levels are rare among those taking supplements. High levels above 50 ng/mL were associated with increased risk of kidney stones and other complications in women over age 65.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that specific altered function in the left atrium may signal stroke risk in those with a-fib and possibly those without it. The study suggests that certain features of the heart's upper left chamber could be used to tell apart low-risk from high-risk patients.
A new study found that using a simple device for eight hours a night can help people with prediabetes improve their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of progressing to diabetes. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment was shown to lower glucose metabolism, insulin regulation, stress hormone levels, and blood pressure.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are working on a three-year NIH-funded study to analyze how mechanical forces and cellular growth factors affect human heart valve biology. The goal is to develop more natural and longer-lasting replacement valves.
A new blood test has been developed to predict future breast cancer by analyzing metabolic profiles of over 57,000 people. The test shows a sensitivity of 80% in predicting the likelihood of developing breast cancer within two to five years.
Researchers found that Veterans Health Administration patients managed by pharmacists who educated and monitored them showed improved adherence rates. Pharmacist-led patient management was key to this success, involving regular education and follow-up to ensure medication was taken as prescribed.
A quarter of all atrial fibrillation patients at the lowest risk for stroke receive unnecessary blood thinners from cardiology specialists. Researchers found that males and older patients were more likely to be prescribed oral anticoagulation despite having no risk factors for stroke.
A new study estimates that using a diagnostic test for candidemia can reduce hospital costs by up to $5,858,448 per year. The T2Candida Panel provides species-specific Candida detection and identification directly from whole blood in 3-5 hours.
The TOAST classification system is widely employed in stroke studies worldwide, categorizing ischemic strokes into five broad causes. While useful for real-world research, it has limitations when determining treatment for individual patients.
A University of Oregon economist's study found that reducing punishments for drivers above the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold results in lower recidivism rates. The study showed a 17% reduction in repeat offenses for BAC levels above .08 and an additional 9% reduction for levels above .15.
Researchers developed a new approach to identify reliable blood biomarkers for Parkinson's disease, which may lead to early diagnosis and targeted treatments. The study found RNA signatures that correlate with the disease-causing mutations in the LRRK2 gene.
Researchers identified duplicate regions on chromosomes 18 as a cause of false-positive results, with longer chromosomes more prone to errors. The study suggests maternal copy-number variants may contribute substantially to elevated risks, emphasizing the need for follow-up testing.
Researchers found that consuming fish and fish oil increases blood levels of a fatty acid linked to potential resistance to chemotherapy. The study advises patients to temporarily avoid fish oil before undergoing chemotherapy.
Researchers at UCI School of Medicine found a potential cause for cryptogenic strokes in 23% of patients with a left atrial septal pouch. The pouch's cul-de-sac nature may promote blood stagnation and clot formation, leading to stroke.
A new oral drug, ZS-9, has been shown to normalize high potassium levels in 98% of patients with chronic kidney disease treated with Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System inhibitors (RAASI's). This effective treatment reduces the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias associated with hyperkalemia.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a computational model that simulates the mechanical behavior of biofilms, which can be used to study issues such as blood clotting and waste treatment systems. The new model allows for the simulation of complex behavior, including viscoelastic properties, and can be adapted to ...
A recent NIH-funded study found that HIV can genetically evolve and replicate in the brain within four months of infection, with signs of inflammation or viral replication present in up to 30% of infected patients. The study suggests that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potential brain damage.
A team of investigators has developed the first fully implantable micropacemaker for fetal use, which has received FDA approval as a Humanitarian Use Device. The device is designed to treat fetuses with complete heart block, a condition that significantly slows the heart rate and impairs its ability to pump blood.
A new study found that high methylation levels in the Fragile X gene are associated with increased symptoms of depression and social anxiety in women with the premutation genetic abnormality. This blood test may help diagnose individuals at risk and initiate early treatment.
Researchers found that a blood test immediately after heart surgery can predict postoperative stroke risk, with elevated BUN levels being the most powerful predictor. This study aims to better assess stroke risk and reduce incidents, disabilities, and expenses.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that routine potassium monitoring for healthy women taking spironolactone for acne does not change the course of treatment, but cumulatively costs $80,000. The researchers suggest ending routine testing to improve patient care experience and reduce healthcare spending.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that routine thrombectomy during angioplasty for heart attacks does not provide a benefit and may increase the risk of stroke. The study included over 10,000 patients and randomly assigned half to receive angioplasty alone or with manual thrombectomy.
A large study has found that routine blood clot removal during heart attack treatment does not benefit patients and may increase the risk of stroke. The TOTAL trial involved over 10,700 patients and showed no differences in cardiovascular outcomes between those who received clot removal and those who did not.
A new study by UCLA researchers has shown the feasibility of a blood-based test for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, offering a safer and more affordable alternative to current methods. The test uses blood protein panels to predict brain amyloidosis with modest accuracy.
Researchers found Antarctic octopods have high levels of haemocyanin, a blue oxygen transport protein, in their blood. This adaptation helps them supply oxygen to tissues at sub-zero temperatures.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have found a correlation between high levels of vitamin D and an increased risk of cardiovascular deaths, including strokes and coronary deaths. The study suggests that levels above 100 nanomol per liter may be detrimental to health.
Recent research suggests that irisin, believed to travel from muscle to fat tissue after exercise, may not exist in humans. New tests used in previous studies found antibodies were poorly vetted and nonspecific, leading to false positive results.
A recent study found that the apixaban-amiodarone combination significantly decreased stroke risk for patients with AFib who require both heart rhythm regulation and blood thinning medication. This alternative to warfarin offers a better option for managing high-risk atrial fibrillation.
Recent articles in JBJS publications examine the relationship between bisphosphonates and atypical femoral fractures. Prodromal thigh pain, radiolucent lines on X-rays, and prolonged bisphosphonate use are indicators of an impending fracture. Conservative management with discontinuation and weight-bearing is recommended.
The new guidelines increase the proportion of AFib patients recommended for drug therapy by 19%, particularly affecting women and people over 65, who now have a lower age threshold for stroke risk assessment.
Reversing international normalized ratio (INR) below 1.3 within 4 hours and maintaining systolic blood pressure less than 160 mm Hg at 4 hours were associated with lower rates of hematoma enlargement. Resuming anticoagulant therapy was linked to a lower risk of ischemic events without increased bleeding complications.
Researchers at Houston Methodist have developed magnetic nanoparticles that can destroy blood clots 100 to 1,000 times faster than a commonly used clot-busting technique. The nanoparticles are coated in albumin and loaded with the drug tPA, allowing it to reach the clot more effectively.
Researchers developed a customized genetic construct using tiny DNA minicircles to detect cancer in mice. The technique uses a protein called secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase, which is not produced in adults but is present in embryos.
Researchers discovered that DPP-4 inhibitors stimulate insulin production and increase glucagon levels, providing protection against hypoglycaemia in mice. This finding could lead to new areas of application for existing diabetes drugs.
Researchers developed a model to predict who stands to gain most from diabetes-preventing drugs or lifestyle changes like exercise and weight loss. The model identified seven key factors: fasting blood sugar, A1C level, triglycerides, family history of high blood sugar, waist measurement, height, and waist-to-hip ratio.
Research suggests that exercising after a meal can lower blood sugar and fat levels, providing more benefits than exercising before dinner. The study found that resistance exercise performed after dinner had the most powerful effect on reducing glucose and fat levels.
Middle-aged women who engage in regular physical activity have lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and blood clots compared to inactive counterparts. Moderate physical activity levels appear to provide the greatest reduction in risk, with more frequent activity offering little additional benefit.
Research found that patients with low vitamin D levels suffered larger areas of dead tissue resulting from obstruction of the blood supply compared to those with normal levels. Additionally, a 10 ng/mL reduction in vitamin D level was associated with a decreased chance for healthy recovery after stroke
A new biomarker in the blood has been identified that can predict the risk of developing dementia, allowing for more precise risk evaluation and earlier prevention efforts. The study involved 76,000 people and revealed a link between low levels of apolipoprotein E and increased dementia risk.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that mosquitoes increase production of immune system proteins called leucine-rich repeat immune proteins (LRIMs) after feeding on blood, which helps fight off parasites that may be present in the blood.
Researchers developed a smartphone accessory that performs a lab-based blood test in just 15 minutes, detecting three infectious disease markers from a finger prick of blood. The device has a manufacturing cost of $34 and can be attached to any compatible smartphone for rapid diagnosis.
A large Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that combining trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with spironolactone more than doubles the risk of sudden death in older patients. The study suggests that physicians should consider alternative antibiotics for patients on spironolactone to reduce this risk.
The non-invasive first trimester blood test reliably detects Down syndrome in over 99% of cases, making it superior to other testing methods.
A new study finds that steroid therapy is associated with a nearly five-fold increase in venous thromboembolism events among IBD patients. Corticosteroid use was linked to a higher rate of venous thromboembolic events, even when combined with biologic therapies.
A new human study confirms that oral BPA exposure does not lead to high levels in the blood, contradicting earlier assumptions made by a dog study. The study found that the body inactivates most BPA molecules and eliminates them within 24 hours, with no evidence of accumulation.
Researchers found that mosquitoes respond weakly to human skin odor alone and require a fluctuating concentration of carbon dioxide to land on human skin. This suggests that upwind flight towards human odor may be used to locate dwellings rather than feeding sites.
A study found that both low and high blood calcium levels, as well as high phosphorus levels, are associated with an increased risk of premature death in dialysis patients. The study suggests that lowering these levels may improve patients' health, but further research is needed.
A study published in Anesthesiology found that positioning women on their side at 15 degrees does not reduce compression of the inferior vena cava as previously thought. Blood flow only partially increased at 30 degrees, challenging the long-held practice of tilting hips during labor.
Researchers found a higher blood volume shift from the lower to upper body due to weightlessness, with lower blood pressure than anticipated. Blood pressure decreased by 10 mmHg, similar to high blood pressure medication, during long-duration spaceflight.
Researchers at UCLA have found that a deficiency of the hormone hepcidin makes people with iron overload disease susceptible to Vibrio vulnificus infections. A medical form of hepcidin, minihepcidin, has been shown to cure the infection by restricting bacterial growth.
Researchers developed a new scoring system to predict graft vs. host disease (GVHD) severity in bone marrow transplant patients. The Ann Arbor GVHD score uses biomarkers to determine treatment intensity and identify patients who may not respond to standard therapy.
A new study in mice suggests that a blood-based biomarker for traumatic brain injury (TBI) may not be effective due to the complex glymphatic system. The researchers found that treatments and clinical approaches can disrupt waste removal, leading to unreliable protein levels in the blood.
A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases demonstrated the pivotal data for T2Candida and T2Dx, detecting Candida species with 91.1% sensitivity and 99.4% specificity in 3-5 hours without blood culture. This technology has the potential to reduce costs, length of stay, and mortality rates associated with Candida infections.
Researchers have discovered that small changes in blood acidity can lead to inaccurate calcium level monitoring, resulting in higher PTH levels and increased risk of artery damage. This affects patients with chronic kidney disease, who already face a high risk of fatal calcification.
A study of over 80,000 women found a significant association between specific ABO blood groups and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Those with blood groups A, B, and AB had a higher risk compared to individuals with group O blood.
Researchers found that postoperative TRALI is significantly underreported but occurs in 1.4 percent of surgical patients, while TACO remains a risk at 4 percent, particularly in those with increased volume of blood transfused and advanced age. The studies provide new insights into the incidence of these life-threatening complications.