Articles tagged with Blood
A University of Rochester Medical Center study found a link between vitamin D deficiency and increased cardiac deaths among blacks compared to whites. Researchers suggest that boosting vitamin D levels safely through supplements may be an effective way to intervene.
Scientists have discovered a pivotal role for two key proteins in preventing the onset of age-related macular degeneration. The study found that one protein binds to another to reduce damage caused by inflammation, and that genetic variations can make people more vulnerable to eye damage.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center pioneered a technique to replace infected aortic grafts with the body's own veins, proving more durable and less prone to new infection than synthetic or cadaver grafts. The procedure has superior durability and lower long-term amputation rates compared to other operations.
Researchers developed non-invasive technology using nanoparticles that react with glucose molecules in tears, changing color to alert users. The innovation has potential applications beyond biomedical devices, including food packaging and biodegradable materials.
Researchers have identified a protein mechanism that senses bicarbonate fluctuations and adjusts blood pH levels. The breakthrough discovery, led by the University of Alberta team, opens new avenues for regulating blood pH in the human body.
Patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis who underwent intensive medical therapy had reduced rates of cardiovascular events and microemboli in the brain arteries. This approach, including aggressive control of blood pressure and cholesterol levels, resulted in lower risk of stroke, heart attack, and death.
A study found that patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and no symptoms of heart disease are at high risk for cardiovascular events. Asymptomatic coronary artery disease was detected in 24% of PAD patients through non-invasive imaging, highlighting the need for extensive cardiovascular risk factor management.
A study using fMRI revealed that adults exposed to lead as children incur permanent brain injury, with distinct areas of the brain affected differently. Lead exposure has been associated with diminished IQ, poor academic performance, and increased risk of criminal behavior.
A simple blood test can help optimize the timing of breast MRI exams in premenopausal women with irregular cycles, reducing non-diagnostic tests and repeat scans. Researchers found that a blood test to determine serum progesterone concentration can aid in optimal timing.
A new generation of implanted devices has shown astounding improvements in survival, quality of life, reduced complications, and device durability in patients with heart failure. The newer devices have a higher success rate, allowing patients to walk longer distances and improving their overall well-being.
The study found that rosier skin appears healthier due to increased blood flow, while golden or 'yellow-toned' skin may indicate higher antioxidant levels from a healthy diet. This discovery suggests that nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving the most desirable complexion.
Researchers compared two surgical strategies for treating infant heart defects and found that a new shunt procedure improved survival rates at 12 months, but had more complications. However, by two years, the difference in survival rates disappeared, leaving uncertainty about which procedure is safer long-term.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that vitamin D deficiency amplifies the negative effects of low estrogen levels on heart health and bones. Men with low vitamin D and estrogen levels were more likely to develop osteopenia and cardiovascular diseases.
A new study from the University of Minnesota shows that patients with acute leukemia who receive two units of umbilical cord blood have a significantly lower likelihood of leukemia recurrence compared to those receiving one unit. The finding has the potential to change current medical practice and give hope to more leukemia patients.
A recent study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology found that catheter-directed therapy is a relatively safe and effective treatment for acute massive pulmonary embolism. The treatment was lifesaving in 86.5% of cases studied and had only a 2.4% chance of major complications.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has published a new cookbook featuring 75 heart-healthy recipes from various cuisines. The recipes are based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and are limited in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
Extended therapy for blood clot prevention yields greater benefits in hip/knee surgery, reducing venous thromboembolism events by three times. High incidence of VTE found in lung transplant recipients, with pulmonary fibrosis as a significant risk factor.
Researchers have identified a new molecular pathway and class of molecules that can prevent potassium buildup in the bloodstream, which can cause fatal cardiac arrest. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to treat hyperkalemia, a condition affecting 8% of hospitalized patients.
The American Society of Hematology recognizes Stuart H. Orkin, MD, and Arthur W. Nienhuis, MD, for their significant contributions to mentoring in hematology. Drs. Orkin and Nienhuis will receive the Mentor Award for Basic Science and Clinical Investigation, respectively.
A common type of chronic diarrhoea, affecting one in 100 people in the UK, may be caused by a hormone deficiency. The study suggests that bile acid production is linked to decreased levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) in people with the condition.
A Stanford study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology found that catheter-directed therapy can save lives in people with massive blood clots in their lungs. The treatment was effective in 86.5% of cases and appeared to be safer than existing treatments.
Researchers discovered that barnacle adhesive polymerization is related to blood clotting, with a trypsin-like serine protease and human factor XIII proteins involved. The team found that the glue's proteins are remarkably similar to those found in human blood clots.
A new study from McMaster University found that young adults are more likely to donate blood, but this trend may not sustain due to aging population. The study suggests targeting campaigns to encourage more Canadians to consider blood donation.
A new study from Canada found that young adults are the most likely to donate blood, but this trend may not be sustainable due to an aging population. The research also highlights positive ties between level of education and ability to speak English with donation likelihood.
Higher urate levels in patients with early Parkinson's disease are associated with slower clinical decline. The study found that elevated urate levels in the cerebrospinal fluid were inversely related to disease progression.
Scientists found that Parkinson's disease progresses more slowly in participants with the highest levels of urate. This discovery supports the idea that patients and doctors may be able to better predict the course of the illness.
A study funded by NIH found that individuals with higher urate levels in their blood and cerebrospinal fluid have a slower rate of disease progression. A clinical trial is underway to examine the safety and benefits of supplemental urate elevation for recently diagnosed patients.
The new study aims to identify more accurate HDL biomarkers that can predict cardiovascular disease risk. The research team will examine blood samples from individuals to uncover the key role of 'good cholesterol' (HDL) in preventing heart disease.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center are studying a new catheter-based procedure to treat mitral regurgitation, a serious heart disorder where blood leaks back into the left atrium. The eValve MitraClip device holds the flaps of the valve together, preventing leaking and improving heart function.
A six-year study by surgeons at the University of Maryland Medical Center found that minimally invasive mitral valve repair is safe and effective, with a low risk of complications. The study showed that 99% of repaired valves were working properly and all patients survived with minimal hospital stay.
Research found that premenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency were three times more likely to develop systolic hypertension 15 years later. Vitamin D has a well-established role in bone health, and deficiency may also increase cancer risk and immune function problems.
Wei-Jun Qian, a PNNL analytical chemist, has been awarded $1.5 million to develop more sensitive and reliable biomarker research and clinical diagnostic tools. His goal is to create a single test for 20 diseases using mass spectrometry instruments.
Researchers explore image-guided interventional radiology procedures as a central role in treating DVT. These techniques aim to eliminate blood clots completely, potentially improving patient outcomes and preventing long-term complications. A national clinical trial is underway to confirm the effectiveness of this approach.
A new study from North Carolina State University found that the Bush administration's 'investment frame' strategy increased support for the Iraq War among supporters, but decreased tolerance among opponents. The study used a nationally representative sample to gauge public opinion in September 2006.
Researchers found that bone lead levels were associated with a higher risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that bone lead may be a better biomarker for cumulative exposure to lead, leading to important public health implications.
Scientists have identified a genetic link in reptile hearts that sheds light on the evolution of the four-chambered heart. The study reveals that the transcription factor Tbx5 plays a crucial role in forming the heart, with warm-blooded embryos showing clear restriction to the left side of the ventricle.
Researchers are using archived newborn blood spot data in Michigan to investigate the causes of cerebral palsy, a leading disabling motor disorder in children. The two-year study will analyze genetic signatures and potential pathways, including hormonal, inflammatory, and blood-clotting factors.
Researchers developed a simple biological imaging system to visualize live tumor cells in peripheral blood. The technology reflects the tumor burden, decreasing upon primary tumor removal, holding promise for clinical benefit.
Prolonged surgery can weaken the immune system, leading to a higher likelihood of complications. Limiting surgical time to less than three hours improves patient outcomes. External fixators are often used to stabilize orthopaedic injuries and allow for staggered surgeries over several days.
Two novel biomarkers, sensitive cardiac troponin assays and copeptin, significantly improve early detection of acute myocardial infarction. These markers enable doctors to diagnose AMI in the vast majority of patients presenting with chest pain, reducing complications and costs.
A study found that warfarin may increase the risk of stroke in dialysis patients with abnormal heart rhythms. Patients on dialysis who take warfarin are at a higher risk of stroke, particularly those whose blood is not monitored for warfarin levels after treatment.
A study found that low tacrolimus doses are effective in living donor liver transplant recipients with small-for-size grafts, indicating potential benefits for rational administration of tacrolimus. The research team recommended relatively low tacrolimus doses for patients receiving SFS grafts.
A study found that kudzu root extracts improved lab rats with metabolic syndrome by lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin levels. Kudzu has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a health food, containing isoflavones with potential health benefits.
The MOSAIC program is a four-year training initiative for graduate students to work with immigrant children learning English as a second language. The program addresses inadequate training of speech-language pathologists to diagnose communication disorders in multilingual children, targeting rural states with high numbers of ESL learners.
A new blood test can detect brain damage in amateur boxers, with nerve cell deterioration shown to persist even after a two-month break from boxing. The study's findings provide further evidence that repeated blows to the head may cause long-term brain damage.
Researchers discovered that oxycholesterol significantly raises blood cholesterol levels and promotes atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants can counteract these effects by blocking the oxidation process that forms oxycholesterol.
The study analyzed reports of adverse events following HPV vaccination and found a higher proportion of reports of fainting and blood clots. However, the rates were still consistent with pre-licensing data and background rates of other vaccines.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a protein-based injection that can regrow blood vessels in the human heart, eliminating the risk of cardiac attack and potentially replacing bypass surgeries. The therapy has shown no side effects or inflammation in animal models, paving the way for potential commercial availability.
Research found that higher levels of total blood choline are associated with a reduced risk of neural tube birth defects (NTDs). Choline supplementation during pregnancy may also have additional benefits for memory function, breast cancer prevention, and cardiovascular health.
Researchers have developed a new oral anti-clotting drug called Apixaban that is effective in preventing blood clots and reducing bleeding risk by half. The treatment was tested in a double-blind study of over 3,000 patients and proved to be a major step forward in preventing deadly blood clots after joint replacement surgery.
Researchers developed a tool to simulate blood flow in children's hearts before surgery, allowing surgeons to optimize blood flow and energy efficiency. The tool helped plan the surgery of a four-year-old girl with a single ventricle defect, improving her oxygen levels and reducing complications.
Researchers have identified a genomic 'signature' in circulating blood that reveals exposure to common upper respiratory viruses, such as the cold or flu. This signature reflects subtle but robust changes in genes activated by the body's response to infection, allowing for accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
Researchers found that individual fibers in a fibrin blood clot align with each other when stretched, causing the clot to stretch and decrease in volume. This unusual property is made possible by protein unfolding, which exposes hydrophobic parts of the molecule and expels water.
A study has found that divers who hold their breath for several minutes have elevated levels of the protein S100B, which can signal brain damage. However, these levels are temporary and it remains unclear whether prolonged apnea can cause long-term brain damage.
A study found that testing for blood alcohol levels (BALs) can identify high-risk patients admitted to trauma centers who had denied excessive drinking. Elevated BALs are associated with higher rates of complications and predict the development of delirium treatments.
Concurrent deep vein thrombosis is more likely when superficial vein thrombosis affects the lower leg, according to a study published in Archives of Dermatology. The study found that 24% of patients with superficial vein thrombosis also had deep vein thrombosis.
Research published in Neurology suggests that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatments may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease by targeting beta-amyloid plaques. The study analyzed data from over 847,000 patients and found a 42% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's among those who received IVIg.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found people with Parkinson's disease have significantly higher blood levels of a particular pesticide than healthy individuals. The study may provide the basis for a beta-HCH blood test to identify those at risk for developing the disease.
Researchers have found that the circadian clock protein Period 1 regulates expression of the renal epithelial sodium channel in mice, leading to decreased sodium loss in urine. Additionally, a study on gene therapy revealed that TLR9-MyD88 pathway is critical for adaptive immune responses to AAV vectors. Another study on kidney repair ...
A study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that higher selenium levels can worsen prostate cancer outcomes for men carrying a specific SOD2 gene variant. Men with the highest selenium levels and this variant had a 40% lower risk of aggressive disease, while those with the lowest levels were twice as likely to develop it.