Articles tagged with Blood
Researchers from the Economic and Social Research Council's Genomics Network are exploring how society can develop an appetite for synthetic blood. They argue that it is vital to involve the public in discussions about biotechnology developments, including stem cell research and in vitro meat production.
A new study found that adjusting therapy to keep NT-proBNP levels below 1,000 pg/ml reduced hospitalizations for heart failure symptoms by half and lowered rates of arrhythmias, stroke, heart attack, and cardiac death. Patients reported better quality of life and greater improvement in heart structure and function.
Researchers found that additional matching for HLA-C significantly lowered transplant-related deaths after umbilical cord blood transplants. The study suggests that altering present selection strategies for cord-blood units might ameliorate excess transplant-related mortality.
A literature review found that people's judgments of others' moral wrongdoing are influenced by their physical state, with exposure to cleanliness improving moral perceptions. Additionally, using soap can alleviate post-decision doubt and reduce feelings of guilt associated with negative experiences.
A new study uses exhaled breath to detect exposure to potentially toxic substances in workplaces and environments. The technology is non-invasive, quick, and inexpensive, with hand-held equipment that can detect minute amounts of substances.
A study found that low vitamin B12 levels may lead to brain cell loss and cognitive decline in older people. Vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with lower scores on cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found a link between low vitamin B12 levels and reduced brain volumes in older adults. Cognitive tests revealed lower scores among participants with high vitamin B12 deficiency markers.
A new MSU study aims to develop a model of community engagement to guide ethical questions surrounding the use of newborn blood spots in research, addressing issues like informed consent and resource prioritization. The project seeks to inform public policy decisions and improve the state's bio-bank, Michigan BioTrust.
Researchers developed a simple color test to detect economically motivated adulterants (EMAs) in heparin, which can trigger anaphylactic reactions. The test can also identify other potential EMAs, paving the way for portable detection methods.
A study of over 30,000 cancer patients found that up to one in five risk developing blood clots called venous thromboembolism (VTE), with risks nearly doubling after a year of treatment. VTEs can be deadly and costly, with average care bills exceeding $110,362 compared to $77,984 for non-VTE patients.
Researchers found that obese individuals' brains respond less to visual cues of high-calorie foods due to impaired glucose regulation. In contrast, non-obese individuals with normal glucose levels exhibit a stronger desire for these foods when triggered by food cues.
Researchers are developing a blood test that can identify concussions in athletes by measuring biomarkers such as S100B. The test aims to provide faster and more efficient diagnosis of concussions, which are the leading cause of brain damage in sports.
A recent study found that people who drink heavily are more likely to die in house fires due to increased risk from smoking and impaired escape ability. The researchers suggest that having someone sober in the home, smoke detectors in bedrooms, or using fire-safe cigarettes could help prevent such deaths.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that pairing broccoli with spicy foods containing myrosinase significantly enhances its individual cancer-fighting power. This is achieved by ensuring absorption takes place in the upper digestive system, where sulforaphane can be quickly and effectively released.
Autism Speaks has launched a new toolkit to help parents prepare their child for blood draws and routine medical procedures, reducing stress and improving the overall experience. The tool kit provides practical strategies, visual supports, and guidance for medical practitioners to create a smoother approach.
Researchers have discovered blood proteins associated with early lung cancer development in mice and humans, offering a promising avenue for a non-invasive blood test. The study found distinct protein signatures in mouse models and human patients, which could aid in diagnosis and monitoring of the disease.
A blood test measuring fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) levels can identify kidney disease patients who are at high risk of developing heart problems, needing dialysis, and dying prematurely. FGF-23 levels are strongly associated with key outcomes in CKD patients.
A study found that online tailored nutrition programs had no effect on reducing saturated fat intake, as measured by blood lipids. The researchers suggest exploring methods to improve the impact of computer-tailored interventions and incorporating social interaction.
The researchers are using genetically modified plants to encapsulate a tolerance-inducing protein within plant cells to prevent fatal allergic reactions in patients with hemophilia A and B. The new funding will help propel the research to determine if the technique can work in other models and potentially to clinical trials.
A new sensor technology has been developed to detect specific proteins in human blood, promising faster and more affordable diagnostics for diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The sensor uses aptamers, custom-made molecules that can latch onto target compounds with high specificity and accuracy.
The study reveals 37 new variants associated with common diseases, including chronic kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and blood clotting. The researchers also identified a possible mechanism to detoxify substances, which could affect the risk of developing kidney disease.
A new screening strategy for critical congenital heart disease (CHD) uses pulse oximetry to detect low oxygen levels in newborns. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical organizations endorse the approach, which has already been adopted by New Jersey.
Research suggests Hepatitis G virus may cause liver damage and cancer, contrary to FDA's initial declaration in 1997. A review of scientific literature shows the virus is prevalent globally, linked to hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Patients with clinically diagnosed superficial vein thrombosis are four to six times more likely to develop venous thromboembolism, a dangerous and often life-threatening condition. Studies have shown that patients with
Researchers at Penn State found that consuming high-fat meals with antioxidant spices reduced triglyceride response by about 30 percent, which may help lower heart disease risk. Adding spices to meals also increased antioxidant activity in the blood by 13 percent.
A global study led by University of Edinburgh found that rivaroxaban is as effective as warfarin in reducing stroke risk for patients with irregular heartbeats. The new treatment has a lower risk of fatal bleeding and requires less monitoring than the current standard treatment.
Non-invasive prenatal tests using cell-free fetal DNA from mother's blood have high sensitivity and specificity for determining fetal sex. The study found that performance improves with later gestation, making this technology useful for early detection of fetuses at risk for sex-linked disorders.
A UK study found that pulse oximetry screening detected 75% of critical cases and 49% of all major congenital heart defects in newborns. Combining pulse oximetry with routine ultrasound and physical examination improved detection to 92%, avoiding undiagnosed deaths.
Scientists have found a heat-detecting molecule called TRPV1 on the noses of vampire bats, which helps guide their bites to veins. This discovery highlights how small genetic changes can lead to major evolutionary adaptations.
A recent study published in CMAJ found that the immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) is an effective tool for screening for bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract. The test was specific for almost 90% of colorectal cancers and adenomas, highlighting its value as a diagnostic tool.
A new microfluidic-based diagnostic device, mChip, can perform complex laboratory assays and diagnose infectious diseases like HIV and syphilis in remote regions with a tiny finger prick of blood. The device significantly reduces testing time and cost, providing immediate results for medical workers.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that knee replacement patients are at a higher risk of developing clots, particularly those with cardiovascular disease, smoking history, or advanced age. The study suggests extending blood thinner therapy into weeks following surgery to minimize this risk.
Researchers track both clinical cases of West Nile Virus and infected mosquito populations to identify 'danger zones' and predict outbreaks. They also analyze the virus's genetic types, dynamics, and mobility to better understand its migration patterns.
Researchers developed a highly sensitive method to determine titanium levels in human blood, establishing a baseline for natural levels and measuring levels in patients with surgical implants. The study found significantly higher titanium concentrations in patients with implants, shedding light on the potential harmful biological effects.
Researchers found that mice lacking fibrin showed dramatically decreased survival and increased bacterial loads during gram-negative sepsis. Fibrin helps protect bodies during infection, and its regulation may hold the key to preventing organ failure in sepsis patients.
Research suggests that adding an inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) to the anticoagulant medication fondaparinux does not improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients with blood clots. In fact, median survival was shorter and VTE resolution rates were lower in patients who received both treatments.
A study found that premature infants treated with lopinavir-ritonavir were more likely to experience life-threatening adrenal insufficiency compared to standard zidovudine treatment. Asymptomatic cases were reported, but long-term effects are unclear.
Researchers are working on developing new treatments for brain aneurysms using gel-based delivery systems and mathematical modeling. The goal is to prevent the growth of aneurysms and improve cardiovascular health outcomes, ultimately reducing mortality rates from heart disease and stroke.
A study of 36,261 patients found that diastolic dysfunction was associated with a higher mortality rate, particularly in moderate and severe cases. The researchers suggest that early identification of advanced diastolic dysfunction may lead to earlier interventions and improved outcomes.
A UK study found that 6.5 hours of additional dietary advice sessions lead to improved blood sugar control in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. In contrast, exercise did not provide additional benefits when combined with diet intervention, except for those with high HbA1c levels.
Physicians have identified six new cases of purpura, a debilitating skin condition caused by cocaine contaminated with the de-worming drug levamisole. Treatment involves stopping cocaine use and administering steroids to prevent inflammation.
A randomized study found outpatient care for low-risk patients with pulmonary embolism to be as safe and effective as inpatient care. The study showed reduced rates of recurrent venous thromboembolism, major bleeding, and death in outpatient patients.
A study published in Panminerva Medica reveals that Pycnogenol and CoQ10 taken as an adjunct to medication strengthens the heart, improving blood volume output, physical fitness, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. The combination also showed significant improvements in patients' quality of life, including reduced symptoms and increa...
Researchers recommend using multiple blood pressure readings to accurately assess control in patients with hypertension, suggesting home monitoring could improve quality of care. For suspected appendicitis, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is recommended as standard preoperative care due to its high sensitivity and specificity....
Researchers found that exercise training significantly improved physical function scores and social function scores in patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). The study also showed that the exercise program restored upright blood circulation, improved kidney function, and dramatically improved quality of life fo...
Two Johns Hopkins researchers argue that many hospital quality measures contain surveillance bias, which can lead to misleading data. They propose standardized methods for surveillance and focus on processes rather than outcomes to get a clearer picture of hospital quality.
A Mayo Clinic research team has demonstrated a promising alternative strategy for treating type 2 diabetes by blocking the breakdown of insulin. In mouse studies, these mice showed increased insulin levels, weight loss, and improved blood sugar control.
A study found that circulating levels of surfactant protein-D were associated with cardiovascular disease and mortality in patients with coronary artery disease, independent of other risk factors. Blood levels of SP-D increase when the lungs are inflamed, such as in smokers or those with chronic lung conditions like COPD.
A new study published by The Endocrine Society finds that testosterone levels do not decline with age in healthy older men. In fact, serum testosterone levels remained stable across the board, indicating that age is not a contributing factor to declining testosterone levels.
The Endocrine Society released a clinical practice guideline recommending vitamin D screening and dietary intakes for children and adults at risk of deficiency. Key findings include recommended daily intake ranges, from 400 IU/day for infants and 600 IU/day for adults, to prevent vitamin D deficiency.
A University of Missouri study finds that BPA accumulates rapidly in the body when consumed daily, rather than through single exposure. Researchers compared steady dietary BPA exposure to traditional lab methods, revealing a greater increase in active BPA form in mice.
Researchers discovered a compound that prevents further injury to damaged livers, improving clinical outcomes for patients. The study, published in ACS' journal Molecular Pharmaceutics, offers hope for increasing the number of available livers for organ donation.
A study published in JAMA found that sleep loss of just five hours a night can lower testosterone levels by 10% to 15%, similar to aging 10-15 years. This significant decline is linked to reduced sense of well-being, mood, and vigor.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that women's risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can be identified up to seven years before pregnancy based on routine measures of blood sugar and body weight. The study revealed a strong correlation between adverse cardio-metabolic risk factors, including high blood sugar, hypertension, and bein...
Researchers at Washington State University have devised a new way to analyze blood spatters at crime scenes, allowing investigators to determine the exact height of a source. The system uses known equations of projectile motion and data points form a neat line on a graph when plotted correctly.
The Heat Wave system uses heated, humidified air delivered through an oxygen mask to rapidly transfer heat to the blood via convection. Tests show it's more effective than current treatments, decreasing treatment time for hypothermic patients to just four hours.
A study found that thinking about one's own death increases concern for society, motivating people to donate blood. Participants who thought about their mortality were more likely to take a pamphlet, regardless of the article they read, suggesting a personal connection with death can enhance altruistic behavior.
A study published in Radiology found that restrictive gadolinium-based contrast agent guidelines effectively prevented nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) and its severe complications, including joint deformity and immobility. The guidelines require a blood test to estimate kidney function before administering the contrast agent.
Researchers found that clot-busting drugs did not improve survival rates and may even worsen outcomes in patients with stable blood pressure. The study suggests thrombolytic agents should not be recommended for patients with normal blood pressure, highlighting the need for further research.
A study found that reminding hospital staff about the costs of daily blood draws resulted in a significant reduction in routine blood tests ordered. The intervention led to cost savings of $54,967 over an 11-week period.