Research on blood and what it reveals about health. Covers blood biomarkers, occupational exposure, cell-preservation for CAR-T therapy, and blood supply.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
A new study of 73,000 Danes found that 'ugly' cholesterol, a type of remnant-like particle cholesterol, is the direct cause of arteriosclerosis and ischaemic heart disease. High levels of ugly cholesterol triple the risk of heart disease, emphasizing the need for preventive treatment and lifestyle changes.
A multicenter study reveals critically ill children with influenza exhibit lower TNFα production capacity compared to healthy control subjects. This degree of reduction in capacity was highly predictive of death from the illness.
Two studies found that migraine with aura is a strong contributor to cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. Women with this condition are more likely to experience blood clot complications, especially those on newer contraceptives.
Serial compression ultrasonography with Doppler imaging is a reliable method for ruling out deep vein thrombosis in pregnant women, detecting 94% of cases. This approach safely allows physicians to withhold anticoagulation therapy, reducing unnecessary risks during pregnancy.
A new study suggests a safer and more informative noninvasive test for detecting chromosomal defects in the fetus, using fetal DNA in the mother's blood. The method offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional invasive procedures, reducing risks of infection and potential harm to the fetus.
Researchers have identified a new approach to treating lymphoma by combining a toll-like receptor agonist with radiation, resulting in durable anti-tumor immune responses. Additionally, scientists have developed model-based decision rules to predict the safety of therapy discontinuation for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia.
A specific protein, Protein S, is crucial for maintaining a healthy retina through photoreceptor pruning. This process prevents retinal degeneration and blindness. The study also highlights the protein's role in other systems, such as the immune and reproductive systems, where its activation has been observed.
A study of over 140,000 people has uncovered 18 genetic variants that increase uric acid levels, leading to improved treatment and prevention options for gout. The research also highlights the growing prevalence of gout worldwide, attributed to increasing obesity and aging populations.
Researchers found that six weeks of resistance training significantly improved blood markers of cardiovascular health in young African-American men, but not Caucasian men. This suggests that resistance exercise training is more beneficial in young African-American men.
People with asthma are at a higher risk of developing pulmonary embolism, with severe cases nearly 9 times more common than in the general population. Mild-moderate asthma increases the risk by 3.5 times, highlighting the importance of increased awareness and prevention among doctors
A Stanford study identifies proteins in the blood that can accurately detect lymphedema, offering hope for early diagnosis and treatment. The biomarker panel shows high accuracy in distinguishing patients with lymphedema from healthy individuals.
A Mayo Clinic study found that long working hours in residency can lead to driver distraction, fatigue, and emotional distress. Nearly half of the surveyed residents reported incidents, with 11% being involved in actual traffic accidents.
Berkeley Lab scientists develop a blood test that can detect radiation exposure, measure dose, and separate individuals with inflammation injuries in hours. The test uses biochemical markers from eight DNA-repair genes.
Researchers have created a gel that can be painted onto blood vessel walls to form a protective barrier, potentially preventing rupture and inflammation. The gel's 'sheer strength' could shore up weakened vessel walls and prevent the formation of blood clots.
A study found that antibodies attached to bacteria via their Fc regions in saliva, while in blood they bound primarily via their Fab regions. This difference in orientation was linked to the local antibody concentration, with low levels favoring Fc-mediated binding and high levels favoring Fab-mediated binding.
Researchers at OHSU School of Dentistry discovered a direct role of BDNF in regulating blood pressure, which may help prevent or treat high blood pressure. The study found that BDNF levels increase dramatically in nerve cells during hypertension.
Researchers found that communications training and a standardized surgical checklist can significantly reduce postoperative complications, including infections and blood clots. The study suggests that these simple cost-effective methods can help teams agree on priorities and ensure accountability, leading to better patient outcomes.
A study published in CMAJ found that women with PCOS taking combined oral contraceptives have a 2-fold increased risk of venous thromboembolism compared to matched controls. The risk is similar when expanding the definition of PCOS by including its symptoms and treatment.
Nearly 23% of American women aged 16-49 have high levels of lead, mercury, and PCBs in their blood. Risk factors include age, fish consumption, heavy drinking, and breastfeeding. Women should learn about their risks before becoming pregnant.
Researchers find that leakage of fibrinogen into the central nervous system activates immune cells called microglia, leading to nerve damage. Targeting the interaction between fibrinogen and microglia may be an effective alternative for treating multiple sclerosis.
Researchers discovered that thrombin activity propagates through blood in steady waves, crucial for sealing large wounds but potentially leading to complications. This finding sheds light on the mechanisms behind severe bleeding in hemophilia patients and has implications for other cardiovascular disorders.
A study published in the journal Alcohol found that patients with higher blood alcohol levels were less likely to die from injuries, even among those with severe injuries. The protective effect was observed across various injury types and increased with higher blood alcohol concentrations.
A recent study has shown that bisphenol A (BPA) can disrupt thyroid function in pregnant animals and their offspring. The study used sheep as a relevant model for human pregnancy and analyzed the internal exposures of the fetuses and their mothers to BPA.
Researchers have developed a low-energy defibrillation scheme that significantly reduces the energy needed to re-establish a normal rhythm in the heart's main chambers. This novel electrotherapy could be less painful than existing implantable defibrillators and may even fall beneath the threshold at which patients begin to perceive pain.