Articles tagged with Blood
Researchers found that short post-meal walks were as effective at reducing blood sugar over 24 hours as a 45-minute sustained walk. The most effective time for walking was after the evening meal, which helped curb high blood sugar levels that often last into the night and early morning.
A recent study found that approximately 40% of designated drivers have consumed alcohol, with many having blood alcohol levels that impair their driving skills. The researchers emphasize the importance of complete abstinence as a designated driver to ensure safety on the road.
Researchers developed a new method to measure cerebral blood flow in children on ECMO, finding that those who experienced strokes or brain bleeds had significantly higher blood flow rates than normal, two to six days prior. This technique could help physicians predict and prevent complications, with potential lead time for intervention.
Researchers found that standard strategies to prevent venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism are more effective than temporary blood clot filters. Higher doses of blood thinners in obese patients also showed no significant difference in preventing clots, according to the study.
The new guideline from the American Academy of Neurology helps people with stroke and atrial fibrillation decide whether to take blood thinners during surgery. For minor procedures, the risk of bleeding is small, but for certain hip and colon procedures, it's higher.
A study by University of Toronto Mississauga researchers found that offering economic incentives such as gift cards increased blood donations without compromising safety. The study used field-based studies with larger samples and found that incentives like paid vacation days led to a significant rise in annual blood donations.
A new set of guidelines aims to cut medication errors with anticoagulants, which account for nearly 7% of hospital errors. The guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary team approach, patient education, and standardized dosing protocols to reduce errors by up to 78%.
A University of Michigan Health System study found that peripherally inserted central catheters more than double the risk of blood clots in critically ill patients and those with cancer. The device is often used for IV medication delivery and has lower infection risks, but may not be suitable for all patients.
A recent study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development found that patients who have suffered a stroke respond equally to care efforts, regardless of their age. The research looked at 3,196 patients treated for ischemic strokes and found little difference in health quality across different age groups.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect allergies to nickel, cobalt, and bone cement, allowing patients to avoid miserable reactions and expensive revisions. The new test is expected to be widely used in the next couple of years, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Researchers at the Montreal Heart Institute have discovered a blood protein that contributes to the early development of atherosclerosis. Angiopoietin-like protein 2 (angptl2) is found six times higher in subjects with coronary heart disease than healthy individuals, making it a potential early biomarker for the condition.
Harvard Stem Cell Institute researchers have identified a protein, GDF-11, that reverses the effects of aging on mouse hearts. The protein was found to reduce heart size and thickness, similar to healthy younger mice.
Researchers at the University of Iowa found similar PCB concentrations in mothers and children from East Chicago and Columbus Junction, challenging long-held assumptions about urban-rural differences in chemical exposure. The study detected a greater variety of PCBs in the blood of mothers and children in East Chicago, but ultimately s...
A study found that children living near toxic waste sites in lower and middle income countries have high blood lead levels, resulting in a loss of IQ points and higher incidence of mental retardation. The researchers estimated that 6 out of every 1,000 children could experience mild mental retardation.
A team of researchers has developed an innovative injectable nano-network that can effectively control blood sugar levels in diabetics by releasing insulin when needed, maintaining normal levels for over a week. The technology has the potential to improve the health and quality of life of diabetes patients.
A recent study at Lund University has discovered a key factor behind gastric bypass surgery's ability to rapidly send type 2 diabetes into remission. The researchers found that insulin levels and intestinal hormones increase significantly after the procedure, suggesting a new potential treatment avenue for diabetes patients.
New research from Johns Hopkins finds that high doses of vitamin D supplements do not confer additional benefits on cardiovascular health or longevity in healthy adults. However, elderly individuals, postmenopausal women, and those with kidney disease may still benefit from higher blood levels of the sunshine vitamin.
A study of 422,000 people found that the safe range of vitamin D levels lies between 20 to 36 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency was linked to increased risk of acute coronary morbidity or mortality, while elevated levels above 36 ng/mL were associated with a slightly higher risk.
Researchers demonstrate rapid and sensitive identification of specific Candida species directly from whole blood using T2Candida, reducing mortality rate to 11%. The breakthrough approach enables fast detection in approximately three hours, outperforming current gold standard methods.
A clinical study in over 4,000 subjects found a correlation between high blood levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and increased future risks of death, nonfatal heart attack, or stroke. TMAO is produced when intestinal bacteria digest phosphatidylcholine, commonly found in animal products.
A specific form of vitamin E supplement can accelerate heart health benefits after quitting smoking. Smokers who took the gamma-tocopherol form showed a 19% greater drop in cardiovascular disease risk and improved vascular function.
A new study shows stent grafts can successfully keep dialysis access sites open using tiny scaffolds for far longer than previously reported, reducing the need for invasive treatments and improving patients' quality of life.
Research suggests that fainting, also known as vasovagal syncope, may have a genetic component, with some families affected by multiple genes. Triggers such as emotional distress, pain, and frightening thoughts vary greatly within families, but the study found no link between triggers and genetic inheritance.
New study finds MR images taken during systole phase show more accurate detection of myocardial scars in ischemic cardiomyopathy patients. Systolic images revealed scars not visible on diastolic images, particularly in the left ventricle area prone to ischemic damage.
A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that obesity is linked to autoimmune disease, but researchers have found a potential solution. Blocking the AIM molecule may prevent autoantibody production and related autoimmune responses.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to analyze the chemical composition of exhaled breath, revealing an individual's unique 'breathprint' that stays constant over time. This non-invasive approach holds promise for early disease detection and monitoring, and could potentially replace traditional blood and urine analysis.
A study published in the journal Blood found that pregnant and postnatal women with certain medical conditions, such as varicose veins or heart disease, are at higher risk of developing blood clots. The research also identified other risk factors, including obesity, bleeding during pregnancy or labour, and a history of premature birth.
A large population-based study found that stillbirth and pre-term birth are associated with a significantly increased risk of blood clots after pregnancy. The study identified several factors that increase the risk of blood clots, including obesity, caesarian section delivery, and pre-term birth.
A UC Davis study found large variation in the use of metal inferior vena cava filters among California hospitals, despite little evidence of their safety and effectiveness. The researchers recommend additional research to determine if the devices improve outcomes for patients with venous thromboembolism.
Researchers at UC Davis developed a nomogram to calculate individual patient risk of post-surgical venous thromboembolism, allowing clinicians to tailor prevention efforts. The study analyzed over 470,000 surgical patients and identified factors increasing blood clot risk, including age, BMI, and splenectomies.
A new study published in Hepatology found that hepatitis C transmission from an infected partner during sex is extremely rare in monogamous heterosexual relationships. The researchers recruited 500 couples and found a maximum incidence rate of 0.07% per year, equivalent to roughly 1 case per 190,000 sexual contacts.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing a wearable artificial lung to serve as a bridge to transplant or recovery in patients with acute and chronic lung failure. The device, called PAAL, is designed to provide longer-term respiratory support while maintaining excellent blood compatibility.
EPFL scientists have developed a tiny implant that can analyze proteins and organic acids in the blood, sending results to doctors' computers for more personalized care. The device has demonstrated reliable detection of several substances and has potential applications in chemotherapy and chronic illness monitoring.
A study conducted at Boston Medical Center found that IVC filters are often left in place indefinitely due to low retrieval rates and inconsistent anticoagulant use. A new multi-disciplinary team approach has been implemented to track and retrieve filters, resulting in successful removals of 10 out of 36 eligible filters.
Researchers led by Dr. Michael A. Weiss are developing a rapid-acting, glucose-responsive insulin that can reduce the risk of hypoglycemia in diabetes patients. The new form of insulin will be designed to detect high or low glucose levels and release only as needed.
The study found that a single dose of tenecteplase reduced incidence of circulatory system collapse by 56% in patients with submassive or intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism. Patients under 75 years old had the most benefit and fewer hemorrhagic strokes.
Researchers found that frequent head hits in football players can lead to long-term brain changes, even without concussions. Elevated levels of S100B protein in blood tests correlated with brain tissue damage and autoimmune responses.
A new study identifies a link between carbamylated albumin protein and increased risk of heart disease in kidney dialysis patients. Researchers found that measuring carbamylated albumin may help doctors monitor dialysis patients and identify those at risk of cardiac complications.
A new method for estimating blood loss, based on base deficit (BD), is more accurate than the current Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) classification. BD was linked to increased severity of injury, length of stay, morbidity and mortality.
A Wayne State University study found seasonal fluctuations in blood lead levels among children are linked to resuspended dust contaminated with lead. The research, based on nine years of data from over 367,000 children, highlights the need for improved controls to prevent lead exposure.
A study of over 40,000 Kaiser Permanente patients found no increased risk of infection or complications following total knee replacement (TKR) for those with diabetes. However, patients with uncontrolled diabetes were more likely to be obese and have severe comorbidities.
A new study found that exposure to airborne dust in urban areas leads to an increase and decrease in childhood blood lead levels, respectively. The research suggests that focusing on primary prevention of lead-contaminated soils may be a more effective approach to improving child health than current efforts.
Studies show dialysis patients using catheters face higher risks of death, infections, and cardiovascular events compared to those with arteriovenous fistulas or grafts. Higher quality studies are needed to determine the true safety of different types of vascular access.
Efforts to reduce lead pollution have been largely successful, but the problem persists due to new industrial inputs and consumer product contamination. Blood lead levels remain high, with no known threshold for toxicity, posing ongoing health risks to people and animals worldwide.
A recent analysis of almost 150 BPA studies shows that human exposure levels are likely too low for estrogenic effects. The study found that blood concentrations of BPA are many times lower than those causing toxicity in animals, suggesting that animal studies may not accurately reflect the human BPA experience.
Researchers at the University of York have developed a new dye, 'Mallard Blue', which can rapidly detect heparin levels in human serum. The dye has excellent sensing capacity for heparin and may improve upon existing clinical methods.
Research suggests that longer periods of low-intensity exercise improve insulin sensitivity and blood lipid levels more effectively than shorter bursts of intense activity. Standing and walking for extended durations are particularly beneficial.
Prompt identification and treatment of perioperative strokes can significantly improve neurologic outcomes. The article reviews management options for perioperative stroke, including blood thinners, clot-busting drugs, mechanical devices, ultrasound, and hemicraniectomy.
A new randomized controlled trial compared the effectiveness of mechanical clot removal with standard medical therapy in treating severe strokes. The study, led by Georgetown University Medical Center, found that removing blood clots within eight hours of stroke symptoms improved survival outcomes and reduced disability levels.
Researchers found that removing blood clots in the brain from patients experiencing severe strokes delivered no better outcomes than non-invasive standard medications. Imaging techniques were also not helpful in identifying patients who potentially would benefit most from clot removal.
A study found that frequent dialysis can cause complications related to repeated access to the blood, including repair procedures and hospitalizations. The risk of these events was 76% higher with daily hemodialysis compared to conventional hemodialysis.
Researchers found that minimally invasive delivery of tPA directly into brain clots improved functional recovery in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, reducing hospital stays and costs. Patients who received the active tPA treatment recovered more quickly and independently after a year.
A genetic variant in the LPA gene has been identified as a major contributor to aortic valve calcification, increasing the risk by over 50%. Researchers found that people with this variant have higher levels of lipoprotein (a) cholesterol particles, which can lead to calcium deposits on the aortic valve.
A large study found that ABO blood type is a strong risk factor for venous blood clots. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, also identified other genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of these conditions.
A study published in Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics found that 10-15% of people experiencing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) will suffer full strokes within three months. Rapid evaluation and treatment can reduce the risk of subsequent strokes by up to 80%.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals high levels of approval among trauma patients, families, and communities to participate in clinical trials without express consent. The findings provide important clues for increasing studies aimed at improving care for time-sensitive injuries.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered four major adaptations in owl anatomy that enable them to rotate their heads almost fully without damaging delicate blood vessels. The team found contractile blood reservoirs and vascular network variations that allow owls to pool blood to meet energy needs during head rotation.
A New York-based physician-researcher has uncovered a potential connection between autism and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) levels in newborns, proposing a study to investigate this hypothesis. IGF plays a crucial role in brain development, and depressed levels may serve as a biomarker for the later development of autism.
A new genetic variant has been identified as a potential target for treatment in reducing stroke risk, with no association found in small vessel disease. The study highlights the need for individualized treatment approaches, given the different genetic mechanisms underlying various types of stroke.
A new study from Ohio State University found a strong link between latent herpes virus reactivation and heart disease, particularly in patients who have suffered a heart attack. The researchers detected elevated levels of inflammatory proteins and antibodies to the EBV-encoded viral protein dUTPase in these patients.