Articles tagged with Blood
A team of researchers has created a microdevice that uses magnetism to remove pathogens from the bloodstream, showing promise as a potential treatment for sepsis. The device, developed by Chong Wing Yung and Don Ingber, achieved over 80% clearance of fungi in contaminated human blood.
A significant decline in US vitamin D levels has been reported, with serious consequences including increased cancer and heart disease risks. The study suggests that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation may be necessary to address this growing epidemic.
Researchers have identified three genes - VKORC1, CYP2C9, and CYP4F2 - responsible for over 40% of warfarin dose variability. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the genetic landscape influencing dose variability, paving the way for more accurate warfarin dosing and reduced patient risk.
Studies have shown that patients with type II diabetes have lower blood levels of hydrogen sulfide, a compound that helps regulate blood pressure. Lower H2S levels may contribute to microvascular dysfunction and increased risk of vascular complications in these patients.
NRL researchers have developed a forceful new method to detect proteins with unparalleled sensitivity and simplicity. The approach can identify as few as 35 attomolar concentrations in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for medical diagnostics, food testing, and national security.
Researchers will analyze frozen blood samples from over 7,000 FHS participants to identify biomarkers associated with heart disease and metabolic syndrome. The goal is to develop simple blood tests to predict high-risk patients.
A study by researchers at the University of Georgia found a direct relationship between two specific antibodies and the severity of Alzheimer's disease symptoms. The team detected higher levels of these antibodies in patients' blood samples, which could lead to an early diagnosis and potentially improve patient quality of life.
Daily folic acid supplements may increase prostate cancer risk by more than twice that of placebo. Baseline dietary folate intake and plasma levels showed a trend towards reduced risk but did not reach statistical significance. Researchers suggest large epidemiological studies using improved methods to study diet and cancer prevention.
Researchers found that arteriovenous (AV) fistulas are the preferred access method for dialysis treatment at any age, with no significant difference in patency or openness between elderly and younger patients. AV fistulas allow continuous high volumes of blood flow, enabling efficient dialysis treatments.
Researchers developed a blood test to measure progranulin levels, predicting the risk of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in patients. A shortage of progranulin leads to brain cell death, causing FTD, and this test can detect it before symptoms appear.
A recent study found that older adults who consume moderate amounts of alcohol perform worse on cognitive tests than their younger counterparts, despite similar blood alcohol levels. The researchers suggest that this is due to factors other than age-related declines in cognitive skills, such as changes in how alcohol affects individuals.
A new calculation eliminates obstacles in measuring kidney function in children, relying on various blood tests that can be performed in a clinical setting. The study's findings suggest an accurate estimate is crucial to properly treat children with acute and chronic kidney problems.
Research reveals women are 30 percent less likely to experience a stroke within 30 days of a mini-stroke, with significant reductions in cardiac events and mortality rates over the course of one year.
A large-scale study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of respiratory infections, such as colds and flu. Individuals with chronic respiratory disorders, like asthma and emphysema, are particularly susceptible to these infections.
A multicenter study led by Johns Hopkins shows that an experimental clot-busting treatment can increase survival rates and improve function in patients with intracranial hemorrhage, a lethal form of stroke. After six months, about 10% had no lingering disability and 40% were independently caring for themselves.
A recent Michigan State University study found that women are 30 percent less likely to receive a critical clot-busting drug after a stroke. Women also experience longer emergency room delays and poorer quality of care compared to men, despite being more than 60% of all stroke deaths.
A study confirms that using genetic information can more accurately estimate warfarin doses, reducing the risk of overdose or underdose. The gene-based dosing algorithm was found to be more effective than traditional clinical formulas in identifying patients at high risk of bleeding or clotting.
A new letter in JAMA contests an earlier study's associations between bisphenol A and various health issues, citing statistical limitations. The authors conclude that the findings could be due to chance rather than real health concerns.
Scientists developed a gene-based strategy for warfarin dosing using data from over 5,000 patients worldwide. The algorithm predicts ideal doses with high accuracy, reducing the need for trial-and-error approaches.
Researchers found that unrelated cord blood transplantation from a mismatched donor is effective in treating children with life-threatening diseases. The study showed low incidence of complications and improved access to transplant for patients with ethnic and racial minorities.
Patients with end-stage renal disease who participated in an education program to limit their intake of phosphorus-containing food additives showed a significant decline in serum phosphorus levels. After 3 months, intervention participants had a 0.6-mg/dL larger decline in average phosphorus level compared to control participants.
Scientists at the German Cancer Research Center have discovered that reduced production of LSR in the liver leads to elevated blood fat levels in obese mice. Restoring LSR production with leptin therapy reverses this effect, reducing blood fat levels and promoting fat breakdown.
A novel blood test for hepatitis C virus has been developed by researchers at Bonn University and the Bernhard-Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine. The test is significantly cheaper than existing commercial tests, while maintaining equal sensitivity, and can be used to monitor blood banks in poorer countries.
A new study suggests that green tea components may negate the effects of bortezomib (Velcade) in patients taking this medicine. The EGCG polyphenol in green tea bound to boronic acid-containing compounds like bortezomib cancels out their antitumor effects.
Researchers found that women who experienced complications due to hypertension in their first pregnancies are at a higher risk of hypertension after pregnancy. The study, conducted on over 11 million women, also showed that each subsequent affected pregnancy compounds the risks.
A team of researchers highlights challenges and concerns with unlinked anonymous HIV testing in developing countries. They outline strategies to harmonize high-quality surveillance with international ethical standards, including reviewing justifications, providing confidential voluntary testing, and strengthening local capacity.
University of Florida researchers develop a new approach to lab-on-a-chip technology by harnessing biologically powered molecular forklifts. This innovation allows for the creation of 'smart dust' that can detect biological threats and other contaminants without the need for electricity or rinsing.
A follow-up study found that workers exposed to lead at work showed greater cognitive problems after age 55, even when current blood levels of lead were controlled. The researchers linked cumulative exposure to mild deficits in spatial ability, learning and memory, and overall cognitive score.
Research reveals bladder cancer is more lethal in women and African-Americans, with mortality rates up to 114% higher than their white male counterparts. The study found that traditional factors accounting for only part of the difference, suggesting other important factors are at play.
Climbers on an expedition led by UCL doctors reached record-low oxygen levels in their blood, averaging 3.28 kPa, which is significantly lower than the normal human range of 12-14 kPA. The study aims to inform critical care treatment strategies for patients with low oxygen levels.
Researchers found that testing two inflammation biomarkers, Lp-PLA2 and hs-CRP, improved the prediction of ischemic stroke in patients. Adding both biomarkers to traditional risk factors provided the most accurate picture of stroke risk.
The DIAS-2 trial found desmoteplase ineffective in treating acute ischemic stroke due to low clinical response rates and higher mortality rates. The authors attribute the failure to replicate previous findings to mild strokes and imaging limitations.
Engineers at the University of Michigan have developed a carbon nanotube-coated smart yarn that can detect blood and monitor health. The yarn, made from a combination of natural cotton and nanotechnology, is flexible and durable, making it suitable for wearable applications.
Researchers discovered a gene mutation that significantly reduces triglyceride levels and produces a favorable cholesterol profile in the Old Order Amish population. Carriers of this mutation have higher levels of HDL-cholesterol and lower levels of LDL-cholesterol, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A systematic review of 49 randomized trials found aprotinin to be slightly more effective at controlling blood loss but with a higher risk of death. Health Canada is set to decide on its use, with alternative treatments like tranexamic acid and aminocaproic being suggested as alternatives.
A study of 387 patients found that 43% developed postthrombotic syndrome, a long-term complication not addressed by traditional treatment approaches. The risk factors identified include age, previous DVT, and larger blood clots at diagnosis.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals women with mitral valve prolapse and severe leakage often receive less aggressive treatment than men, with a higher risk of mortality. The underestimation of cardiac enlargement in women may be the primary reason for these disparities, highlighting the need for more precise evaluation and treatment strategies.
A new study published in the FASEB Journal suggests that the quality of HDL cholesterol, not just its type, matters for good health. Researchers found that high levels of poor-quality 'good' HDL can increase heart disease risk.
A study in China has identified the first cases of human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA), a tick-borne infectious disease. The investigation found that transmission was likely from person to person through blood and respiratory secretion exposure, rather than tick bites.
University of Michigan researchers have developed a simple method for detecting contaminants in heparin, a blood-thinning drug used to prevent and treat blood clots. The new method uses potentiometric polyanion sensors to distinguish pure heparin from tainted heparin containing oversulfated chondroitin sulfate.
Researchers found that patients who received both intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular interventions experienced significantly lower mortality and greater improvement in neurological ability. The study suggests that combining these treatments could be a game-changer for stroke patients, especially those under 80 years old.
Researchers have identified a new biomarker for heart failure, resistin, which can independently predict an individual's risk of developing the condition. Resistin levels were found to increase the risk of new-onset heart failure by 38% and were a stronger predictor than other inflammatory markers.
Research highlights increased risk of post-MI death among African-American patients with acute myocardial infarction and previously treated depression. Persistent depressive symptoms at the time of MI hospitalization may indicate a more severe or recurrent condition.
A diuretic has been found to reduce the risk of heart failure in women with a preserved ejection fraction, according to a study published in Circulation. The medication, chlorthalidone, was shown to be effective in reducing the occurrence of heart failure in people with a wide range of left ventricular ejection fractions.
Researchers identified associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and altered blood folate, homocysteine, and DNA uracil concentrations in Puerto Rican adults. These findings suggest that SNPs may increase the risk for cancer by causing DNA breakage.
A large study of nearly 11,000 adults suggests that obstructive sleep apnea may be a risk factor for sudden cardiac death, particularly in patients with low nighttime oxygen saturation. The study found that severe cases of OSA were associated with an increased risk of SCD, independent of other established risk factors.
Research suggests that flu vaccination can lower the risk of venous thrombotic embolism (VTE) in people with cardiovascular disease. The protective effect was more pronounced in those under 52 years old. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship and explore underlying mechanisms.
A team of Johns Hopkins biochemists identified five key proteins that may form the basis of an accurate early warning test for impending heart attacks. The test could provide advance warning to paramedics and physicians during the critical window before ischemia causes substantial heart tissue damage, allowing for urgent treatment to p...
Researchers have discovered that the apelin protein can help regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with type II diabetes. Activation of this second pathway improves glucose regulation and offers a potential new treatment option.
A study published by researchers in Japan found that Double Balloon Endoscopy (DBE) was effective in diagnosing small intestinal lesions in patients with obscure GI bleeding, with a sensitivity of 92.7%. DBE also showed therapeutic benefits for most patients, and the technique was more sensitive than capsule endoscopy in certain cases.
Researchers at Monell Center found that changes in blood triglyceride levels after a high-fat meal can indicate susceptibility to diet-induced obesity. The study suggests that such a simple blood test could be used to identify individuals at risk, particularly children, and target obesity prevention resources.
Researchers have identified molecular signals causing abnormal changes in the peritoneum, a lining used in peritoneal dialysis. Disrupting these signals may help maintain PD's effectiveness and offer new hope for former PD patients seeking alternative treatments.
The study delves into the Old Frisian compensation tariffs, which linked financial compensation to injuries and insults, preventing blood feuds. Nijdam's research reveals a unique body-centred model of honor that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the human body and surroundings.
University of Houston professors Matthew Franchek and Ralph Metcalfe receive a $2.8 million NIH grant to create a pulseless total artificial heart (TAH) with advanced control systems. The device aims to improve reliability and adjust to physiological needs, offering hope for those waiting for a heart transplant.
A new, simpler diagnostic method for detecting blood clots in the leg has been shown to be as effective as a more complex method. The study found that compression ultrasonography was highly accurate, with rates of detection equivalent to whole-leg ultrasonography.
A Mayo Clinic-led study found that the first generation of a stool DNA test detected 20% of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps, compared to fecal blood tests. The test's limitations include sample degradation and low sensitivity, but second-generation tests improved detection rates.
A recent study by the American College of Radiology found that core needle breast biopsies are safe for patients taking anticoagulants. The study showed that lumps or bruising occurred in 34% of women taking blood thinners, compared to 26.5% of those not on medications.
Researchers identified two new genes and confirmed a third's role in increased uric acid levels, associated with up to 40-fold gout risk. Genetic testing may one day identify individuals at risk before symptoms develop.
A new study found that warfarin, commonly used to prevent blood clotting, increases the risk of brain hemorrhage and death if a hemorrhagic stroke occurs. The study showed that people taking warfarin with an INR above three had twice as much initial bleeding as those not on the drug.
Naren Vyavahare aims to extend the durability of bioprosthetic heart valves beyond 20 years through chemical linking of neomycin to tissue. Improved durability will enable surgeons to implant valves in younger patient populations with reduced risk of failure.