Articles tagged with Blood
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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 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.
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 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 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.
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...
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.
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.
A study by Dr. David Spence found that 95% of patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis can manage without surgery, benefiting from improved medical treatment and lifestyle modifications. Patients with microemboli are the exception, requiring revascularization to reduce stroke risk
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.
Researchers are developing a simple blood test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease by identifying biomarkers in the blood. The study aims to provide an early and accurate diagnosis, allowing for effective treatment to be given sooner.
A study found that healthy individuals with elevated uric acid levels have a higher risk of developing kidney disease, particularly in women and those with hypertension. The researchers recommend initiating clinical trials to assess the potential of uric acid-lowering drugs for preventing kidney disease.
Johns Hopkins researchers have successfully suppressed levels of the 'hunger hormone' ghrelin in pigs using a minimally invasive procedure. The method, called GACE, produces an effect similar to bariatric surgery by lowering appetite and promoting significant weight loss.
A 35-year-old woman suffered a stroke due to a blood clot caused by a heart defect and birth control pills. She received an interventional neuroradiologist-guided catheter delivery of tPA, resulting in immediate and dramatic improvement. Her stroke score improved from 13 to 1 after treatment.
A recent study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with migraines are more likely to develop venous thrombosis or blood clots in their veins. The research, which involved 574 participants in Italy, revealed a significant association between migraine and increased risk of blood clots.
A new $10 million clinical trial is testing a treatment that can chew up deep vein thrombosis (DVT) clots and administer clot-busting drugs, with the goal of preventing long-term complications like post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). The trial aims to provide a safer, quicker and more effective approach to treatment.
A multicenter clinical trial funded by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation found that continuous glucose monitoring significantly improved blood sugar control in patients with type 1 diabetes. HbA1c levels decreased by an average of 0.53% in patients aged 25 and older, while improvements were not observed in younger age groups.
A team of researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine has been awarded a $9.3 million grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to investigate blood lipoproteins and their role in preventing coronary heart disease. The study aims to identify molecular events regulating cholesterol transport in blood.
The new statistical model incorporates serum sodium and MELD scores to prioritize the sickest patients, reducing mortality by 7% among those with low sodium levels. Mayo Clinic's improved tool aims to ensure timely transplants for those with advanced liver disease.
The new guidelines focus on improving diagnostic accuracy and prognostic evaluation of patients with PE. In high-risk cases, immediate thrombolytic treatment is recommended to save lives, while in low-risk cases, anticoagulants are used to prevent future episodes.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have observed a non-invasive MR imaging healing mechanism for asymptomatic carotid plaque rupture. The study, published in Circulation, shows that not all plaque ruptures are symptomatic and highlights the importance of monitoring vulnerable plaques.
A 9-year study in sheep found that the likelihood of BSE transmission via blood transfusion was 36% for BSE and 43% for scrapie. Researchers warn that up to 4,000 people could be carrying vCJD in the UK, posing a risk through infected blood.
A recent study found that blood transfusions can transmit a variant of mad cow disease (vCJD) to humans with high efficiency, particularly when donors are in the later stages of infection. The research suggests that blood from BSE- and scrapie-infected sheep could be used effectively in non-human experiments to develop diagnostic tests.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that reducing uric acid levels in teens with high blood pressure lowered blood pressure to normal in most cases. Allopurinol, a medication typically used for gout, showed promise as a potential treatment for high blood pressure.