Salt and Hypertension

	Salt And Hypertension Hypertension Symptoms Primary Hypertension Pulmonary Hypertension In Babies
	Hypertension And High Blood Pressure Cardiovascular Disease And Hypertension Hypertension Medications Salt And Hypertension Water Drinking And Hypertension Hypertension And Neck Pain
	persistently elevated blood pressure, may be primary or secondary (associated with another disease)

	Lateral sinus thrombosis as a complication of acute mastoiditis in children We have read with great interest the recent article by Christensen et al. , which presents important clinical observations for otogenic intracranial complications. It was a well-conducted study of lateral sinus thrombosis of otitis media in children. We would like to present some comments on this problem based on our experience and literature review. Authors presented seven cases of lateral sinus thrombosis (LST) in children as complications of acute otitis media (AOM)?four cases and chronic otitis media (COM)?three cases. LST is a rare intracranial complication of otitis media which contributes to lack of clear guidelines of how to manage this entity, i.e. the time of introduction of antibiotic therapy, whether to remove clot from the sinus or to ligate internal jugular vein (IJV), et...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Licorice ? or more? Exp Clin Endocrinol DiabetesDOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1224123AbstractA 57 yr old man presented to endocrinology clinic with a six year history of poorly controlled hypertension which was treated with Metoprolol 200 mg/day and Enalapril 20 mg/day. He was asymptomatic but incidentally hypokalaemia was detected while having cholecystectomy, two years prior to his clinic appointment. He had never been on diuretics or laxatives. He was started on potassium supplements (120 mmol/d) and advised to increase dietary potassium by the surgical team. A detailed personal history revealed ingestion of 300–500 g licorice per day. Physical examination was unremarkable apart from increased blood pressure of 180/105 mmHg. Following the initial visit, his serum electrolyes (K+3.... Treat Ocular Hypertension Early (CME/CE) Patients at high risk for glaucoma because of ocular hypertension appeared to benefit from early drug treatment, researchers said. (Source: MedPage Today Ophthalmology) Unusual Features of Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy In conclusion, apical HC in a teaching hospital without a specialized HC clinic and in a predominantly Caucasian population is a disease of the elderly. Documented late morphologic evolution is not uncommon, with a high incidence of coronary fistulae and morbid atrial fibrillation. (Source: The American Journal of Cardiology) Variations in the prevalence of point (pre)hypertension in a Nigerian school-going adolescent population living in a semi-urban and an urban area Conclusions: The prevalence of both disorders is considerably high in the studied populations. Urgent pediatric public health action is needed to address the situation. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles) Pine bark extract may help kidneys CHIETI, Italy, March 8 (UPI) -- Italian researchers say pine bark extract may help counteract kidney damage due to high blood pressure. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Early Right Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis Without Pulmonary Hypertension: A Doppler Tissue and Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Study Does isovolumetric acceleration on tissue Doppler help detect early right ventricular systolic dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis without pulmonary hypertension? Cardiovascular Ultrasound (Source: Medscape Rheumatology Headlines) Delaying Treatment of Ocular Hypertension: The Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study [Clinical Trial] Objective  To compare the safety and efficacy of earlier vs later treatment in preventing primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in individuals with ocular hypertension. Methods  One thousand six hundred thirty-six individuals with intraocular pressure (IOP) from 24 to 32 mm Hg in 1 eye and 21 to 32 mm Hg in the fellow eye were randomized to observation or to topical ocular hypotensive medication. Median time of treatment in the medication group was 13.0 years. After a median of 7.5 years without treatment, the observation group received medication for a median of 5.5 years. To determine if there is a penalty for delaying treatment, we compared the cumulative proportions of participants who developed POAG at a median follow-up of 13 years in the original observation group and in the ... Suppression of Corticosteroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in Sheep by Anecortave [Laboratory Sciences] Conclusion  Elucidation of the mechanisms of action of anecortave in animal models may prove relevant to the design of novel interventions for the management of primary open-angle glaucoma. (Source: Archives of Opthalmology) Treatment of Ocular Hypertension: Hamlet's Lament Revisited [Editorial] (Source: Archives of Opthalmology) Suppression and Reduction of Corticosteroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension by Anecortave in Sheep [Editorial] (Source: Archives of Opthalmology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> 5. The adjustment of autonomic nervous system function (ANSA method) and personalized medicine:new approach in diagnostics and treatment of disease According to new data from different studies about connection of heart rate variability and genetical factors is confirmed that there is clear genetical determination of autonomic nervous system status. Regarding to possible existence of constant sympathovagal balance in the basal stage, we made hypothesis that the matching of the drug and dose of every disease treatment depend of the type of sympathovagal balance. The goal of research was to use this methodology in the testing of patients with myocardial infarction, hypertension, syncopes and healthy persons. The patients were divided in two clear groups related to predominance of sympaticus or vagus with subgroups with moderate and strong activity. The groups were created according to normal values from tables. After the follow up of pat... Wine and women's weight Conclusion This large cohort study that followed middle-aged women for almost 13 years found that there was an association between greater alcohol consumption and slightly slower weight gain over this period. Despite the tone of press coverage, it should be remembered that this type of study can only show associations between factors, and cannot say how or whether alcohol directly causes the slower weight gain. There are also a number of limitations to this research, some of which the researchers have highlighted: The participants self-reported their weights and alcohol consumption, which may have resulted in a misclassification or underestimation of these values. The study used a single measurement of alcohol consumption taken at the start of the study. It is likely that the partici... Wireless Surveillance for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts (TIPS) A Feasibility Study Conclusion: The use of wireless sensors may facilitate the surveillance of shunt function in patients with portal hypertension who have undergone placement of TIPS. (Source: Academic Radiology) Hypertension seen as neglected disease More aggressive screening, improved surveillance and less-expensive medications could reduce the number of U.S. adults with the cardiovascular risk factor, an IOM report says. (Source: American Medical News - PROFESSION) Effectively Evaluating The Hemodynamics Of Gastric Varices Gastric varices (GV) are an important complication of portal hypertension. As an almost atraumatic method, computed tomography (CT) angiography has been used widely to show the portal vein system. However, the collateral circulation of GV in different locations has been reported only rarely. A research article published on February 28, 2010 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology addresses this problem... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Effectively Evaluating The Hemodynamics Of Gastric Varices Gastric varices (GV) are an important complication of portal hypertension. As an almost atraumatic method, computed tomography (CT) angiography has been used widely to show the portal vein system. However, the collateral circulation of GV in different locations has been reported only rarely... (Source: GastroIntestinal News From Medical News Today) Elderly patients aggressively over-treated with pharmaceuticals (NaturalNews) Researchers from the Cochrane Collaboration research group have determined that seniors over the age of 80 are being given too many drugs and in too high of doses. Particularly with high blood pressure, doctors are too aggressively treating the elderly with pharmaceuticals which is doing them more harm than good.According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly a quarter of all Americans between 20 and 75 have hypertension while roughly 70 percent of those over 75 have it.The conventional approach to treating high blood pressure is to prescribe a variety of drugs that, together, doctors hope will achieve a target of 140/90 mmHg. However after scouring several studies to see if such treatments are actually working, Dr. James Wright, head of Cochran... U.S. Attempts to Reduce Salt Intake (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- With 73 million Americans suffering from high blood pressure, the U.S. food service industry is attempting to make a change in public health by reducing the amount of salt added tp processed foods. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com) Multidisciplinary Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program Established The new, multidisciplinary BWH Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program aims to promptly evaluate, and treat patients with complex pulmonary vascular problems including pulmonary arterial hypertension. (Source: BWH News) Intraperitoneal LPS amplifies portal hypertension in rat liver fibrosis Authors: Christian J Steib, Anna C Hartmann, Christoph v Hesler, Andreas Benesic, Martin Hennenberg, Manfred Bilzer & Alexander L Gerbes (Source: Laboratory Investigation AOP)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Impairment of endothelial SKCa channels and of downstream hyperpolarizing pathways in mesenteric arteries from spontaneously hypertensive rats Conclusions and implications: In SHRs, the distinct pathway that generates endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization in vascular myocyte by activation of IKCa channels and Na+/K+-ATPases remains intact. The second pathway, initiated by endothelial SKCa channel activation and amplified by KIR opening on both endothelial cells and myocytes is compromised in SHRs due to down-regulation of both SKCa and KIR and to changes in caveolin-1 oligomers. These impairments in the SKCa[ndash]KIR pathway shed new light on vascular control mechanisms and on the underlying vascular changes in hypertension. (Source: British Journal of Pharmacology) Association of the C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene with sudden sensorineural hearing loss To investigate the recently reported association of the C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), we analyzed data from a community-based Japanese population.Nested case-control study.Among 2,174 adults (1,096 males and 1,078 females) aged 40 to 79 years old who participated in the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging, we compared 33 cases of prevalent SSNHL, defined as a self-reported otolaryngologist diagnosis, with the other cases. Multiple logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) for SSNHL in subjects with the MTHFR C677T polymorphism, with adjustment for other possibly influential factors under additive, dominant, and recessive genetic models.The per-allele... Lipid levels in sickle-cell disease associated with haemolytic severity, vascular dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in sickle cell disease (SCD) is an emerging and important clinical problem. In a single-institution adult cohort of 365 patients, we investigated lipid and lipoprotein levels and their relationship to markers of intravascular haemolysis, vascular dysfunction and PH. In agreement with prior studies, we confirm significantly decreased plasma levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) in SCD versus ethnically-matched healthy controls. Several cholesterol parameters correlated significantly with markers of anaemia, but not endothelial activation or PH. More importantly, serum triglyceride levels were significantly elevated in SCD compared to controls. Elevated triglyceride levels correlat... Effect of eculizumab on haemolysis-associated nitric oxide depletion, dyspnoea, and measures of pulmonary hypertension in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of haemolytic anaemia. Intravascular haemolysis leads to nitric oxide (NO) depletion, endothelial and smooth muscle dysregulation, and vasculopathy, characterized by progressive hypertension. PH has been reported in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), a life-threatening haemolytic disease. We explored the relationship between haemolysis, systemic NO, arginine catabolism and measures of PH in 73 PNH patients enrolled in the placebo-controlled TRIUMPH (Transfusion Reduction Efficacy and Safety Clinical Investigation Using Eculizumab in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria) study. At baseline, intravascular haemolysis was associated with elevated NO consumption (P < 0·0001) and arginase-1 release (P < 0·0001). Almost... Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt with accidental diagnosis of persistence of the left superior vena cava. This report describes a rare vascular malformation characterized by the absence of the right superior vena cava and persistence of the left superior vena cava in a patient with a diagnosis of advanced liver cirrhosis who needed a TIPSS placement in order to control refractory ascites. PMID: 20205290 [PubMed - in process] (Source: World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> The Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive (VISTA): results and impact on future stroke trials and management of stroke patients The Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive was established to improve stroke care and trial design through the collation, categorization and potential access to data sets from clinical trials for the treatment of stroke. Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive currently provides access to a combined data set of 29 anonymised acute stroke trials and one acute stroke registry with data on >27 500 patients aged between 18 and 103 (mean 71) years. Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive has facilitated research across a broad canvas. The prognosis was poor in patients with very high blood pressure at the time of admission or with a wide variability of systolic blood pressure during the acute phase. The late occurrence of hyperthermia following an ischaemic stroke worsens the progn... Extrinsic compression of the left coronary ostium by the pulmonary trunk: management in a case of eisenmenger syndrome. Authors: Sivakumar K, Rajan M, Francis G, Murali K, Bashi V Extrinsic compression of the left main coronary artery by a massively dilated pulmonary artery in patients who have severe pulmonary hypertension can lead to significant myocardial ischemia. A 58-year-old man with a large patent ductus arteriosus and Eisenmenger syndrome presented with angina at rest and worsening heart failure of 3 months' duration. The new symptoms were recognized to be secondary to extrinsic compression of the left main coronary artery ostium by a dilated main pulmonary artery and were successfully relieved by the placement of a metallic stent in the affected segment of the left main coronary artery. Multislice computed tomographic imaging after 6 months showed stent patency and the intimate relation of the... Management of High Blood Pressure in African Americans and the 2010 ISHIB Consensus Statement: Meeting an Unmet Need (Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension) Risk factors and alterations in blood pressure levels in undergraduate nursing students Conclusion: There is a need to emphasize lifestyle changes among those future nurses.Objetivos: Medir la presión arterial para identificar posibles alteraciones en profesionales graduandos en Enfermería; identificar factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial; verificar la asociación entre los niveles de presión y los factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal, desarrollado entre noviembre de 2006 y mayo de 2007. La muestra fue compuesta por 120 graduandos de enfermería de la Universidad Federal de Sao Paulo. Fue aplicado un cuestionario específico sobre factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial y para evaluar la presión arterial. La Prueba de Fischer fue usada para determinar posibles asociaciones. Resultados: 92,5% de los graduan... Children and adolescents with familiar history of high blood pressure: risk factors for cardiovascular diseases Conclusion: Early identification of risk factors for high blood pressure may be an important strategy to prevent the development of other cardiovascular diseases.Objetivo: Identificar en un grupo de niños y adolescentes con historia familiar de hipertensión arterial, la presencia de indicadores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial. Métodos: estudio desarrollado con 141 individuos de seis a 18 años en una comunidad de la ciudad de Fortaleza con recolección de datos realizada en el domicilio. Resultados: los indicadores de riesgo que aparecieron con más frecuencia fueron la ingestión de sal, sedentarismo y escasa ingestión de legumbres. Los promedios de presión arterial fueron mayores en los individuos del sexo masculino. Aquellos que refirieron hacer uso de sal en la alimentación...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Erratum In Lacey J. Benson, Robert Cohn and David C. Kaelber’s article ‘The association of continuity of care on the diagnosis of hypertension in children and adoles- cents’, 13(4): 361–369, 2009, DOI: 10.1177/1367493509344680, the following errors have been identified: Dr. Robert Cohn’s affiliations should have read: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA. Dr. David Kaelber’s affiliation should have read: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Internal Medicine and Information Services, The MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA. The editors and publishers apologise to the authors and regret any inconvenience caused. (Sour... Medicine-induced collapse, cracking joints and a calendar for the partially sighted In Doctor's Diary this week, James Le Fanu describes medicine-induced collapse (MIC) and a new giant calendar for the partially sighted. (Source: Telegraph Health) Prevalence and characteristics of the metabolic syndrome among adults in Beijing, China. This study was performed to investigate the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome using a large representative sample in Beijing. Data from a total of 16442 adults (6489 men and 9953 women) aged ?18 years from a survey of behavioral risk factors for chronic diseases in Beijing, in 2005, was analyzed. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome increased with age and the age-standardized prevalence of the metabolic syndrome defined by International Diabetes Federation IDF and National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III ATPIII criteria were 23.2% (24.5% in men and 22.7% in women) and 16.2% (16.1% in men and 16.6% in women), respectively. The metabolic syndrome was higher in semi-urban areas and associated with higher rates of hypertension, central obesity, salt intake and sm... Regular painkillers and hearing loss Conclusion This study found an association between regular use of three types of painkiller and a small increased risk in hearing loss. This type of study can only find associations, it cannot demonstrate that these painkillers caused the hearing loss. The researchers highlight some limitations of their study: Men were categorised as having hearing loss based on their own admission in the questionnaire on whether it had been diagnosed by a professional. Participants who did not report hearing loss were considered to not be impaired. The best way to assess hearing would have been through standard pure-tone audiometry, but this could not be performed due to cost and logistics reasons. The researchers did not have information on the participants? lifetime noise exposure or the reasons... Pycnogenol Lowers Elevated Urinary Protein Levels And Improves Blood Flow To The Kidneys An estimated one in ten adults suffers from kidney disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. A leading cause of kidney disease is hypertension, which effects one out of every four U.S. adults. Chronically high blood pressure damages capillaries of the kidneys which in turn affects the organ's ability to filter waste and remove excess fluids from the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Pycnogenol Lowers Elevated Urinary Protein Levels And Improves Blood Flow To The Kidneys An estimated one in ten adults suffers from kidney disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. A leading cause of kidney disease is hypertension, which effects one out of every four U.S. adults... (Source: Hypertension News From Medical News Today) Beta Blocker Therapy Underused In Heart Failure Patients New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices. Failure to take beta blockers prior to implanting a cardiac device can affect the patient's overall outcome and survival rate, says Paul Hauptman, M.D., SLUCare cardiologist and professor of internal medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and lead author of the study... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today) Beta Blocker Therapy Underused In Heart Failure Patients New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices... (Source: Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today) Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood Pressure Title: Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood PressureCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/4/2010 8:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/5/2010 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) 25 Years of the American Society of Hypertension—Where We Have Been and Where Should We Be Going? (Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Electronic Medical Records as a Research Tool: Evaluating Topiramate Use at a Headache Center Conclusions.[mdash] Findings from our study using EMR demonstrate that physicians use topiramate at many different doses and for many off-label indications. This analysis provided important insight into our patient populations and treatment patterns. (Headache 2010;[bull][bull]:[bull][bull]-[bull][bull]) (Source: Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain) Use of inhaled nitric oxide in the new born period: results from the European inhaled nitric oxide registry Conclusion: Collating and reporting data about iNO therapy in neonates across a number of European centres using a web-based system is feasible. These data may be used to monitor the clinical use of iNO, identify adverse effects, generate research hypotheses and promote high standards in the clinical use of iNO. (Source: Acta Paediatrica) Identifying women with severe angiographic coronary disease Conclusions. Women referred for first diagnostic angiography have lower rates of severe CAD compared with men across all ages. Whilst conventional risk factors, age, sex, diabetes, smoking and hyperlipidaemia are primary determinants of CAD amongst women and men, CCS Class IV angina is more likely to be associated with severe CAD in women than men. (Source: Journal of Internal Medicine) Potential functional and survival benefit of double over single lung transplantation for selected patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a frequent indication for lung transplantation (LTX) with pulmonary hypertension (PH) negatively affecting outcome. The optimal procedure type remains a debated topic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pretransplant PH in IPF patients. Single LTX (SLTX, n = 46) was the standard procedure type. Double LTX (DLTX, n = 30) was only performed in cases of relevant PH or additional suppurative lung disease. There was no significant difference for pretransplant clinical parameters. Preoperative mean pulmonary arterial pressure was significantly higher in DLTX recipients (22.7 ± 0.8 mmHg vs. 35.9 ± 1.8 mmHg, P < 0.001). After transplantation, 6-min-walk distance and BEST-FEV1 were significantly higher for DLTX patients (6-MWD: 410 ± 25 m v... Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood Pressure Findings may explain link between breathing in dirty air and heart problems Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Air Pollution, High Blood Pressure (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Effectiveness of an Interventional Program to Improve Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Patients at High Risk for Developing Heart Failure: HEROIC Study J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). The Efectividad de un Programa de Intervención en el Control de la Presión Arterial de los Hipertensos en Riesgo de Desarrollar Insuficiencia Cardiaca (HEROIC) study was designed to assess whether an educational program for primary care physicians could improve blood pressure (BP) control in hypertensive patients at high risk for developing heart failure. The program contained a combination of educational training (live group sessions or online training) and information feedback. Two hundred twenty-six physicians completed the program and provided valid data in 2489 patients before and 2168 after 1 year. There was a small but significant reduction of [minus]1.1 mm Hg (P=.009) in systolic BP and a higher proportion of patients achieved their BP target (13.6% ... Dietary fat modifications and blood pressure in subjects with the metabolic syndrome in the LIPGENE dietary intervention study. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of an isoenergetic change in the quantity and quality of dietary fat on BP in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. In a 12-week European multi-centre, parallel, randomised controlled dietary intervention trial (LIPGENE), 486 subjects were assigned to one of the four diets distinct in fat quantity and quality: two high-fat diets rich in saturated fat or monounsaturated fat and two low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate diets with or without 1.2 g/d of very long-chain n-3 PUFA supplementation. There were no overall differences in systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP or pulse pressure (PP) between the dietary groups after the intervention. The high-fat diet rich in saturated fat had minor unfavourable effects on SBP and PP in males. ... Simplified Pulse Reactor for Real-Time Long-Term In Vitro Testing of Biological Heart Valves. The objective of this work was development of an easy to handle real-time pulse reactor for evaluation of biological and tissue engineered heart valves under different pressures and long-term conditions. The pulse reactor was made of medical grade materials for placement in a 37 degrees C incubator. Heart valves were mounted in a housing disc moving horizontally in culture medium within a cylindrical culture reservoir. The microprocessor-controlled system was driven by pressure resulting in a cardiac-like cycle enabling competent opening and closing of the leaflets with adjustable pulse rates and pressures between 0.25 to 2 Hz and up to 180/80 mmHg, respectively. A custom-made imaging system with an integrated high-speed camera and image processing software allow calculation of effective o... International Women?s Day: A girl called 'Good News' In Burundi becoming pregnant is a matter of life and death. According to the World Health Organisation, the maternal mortality rate is 11 for every 1,000 live births, while the neonatal mortality rate is 41 per 1,000 live births. Since 2008, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has been running a centre for obstetric emergencies in the town of Kabezi, south of the capital Bujumbura. The centre provides free specialised medical care during pregnancy and delivery, and treats an average of 250 women a month. Mary Nicizanye, 30, is one of those women. She is sitting in the ward at the MSF centre. It has been four days since she gave birth to a little girl. Beads of sweat run down her neck, but her eyes are bright. Before she gave birth, Mary was brought to a local health centre suffering f... Alveolar recruitment maneuver in mechanic ventilation pediatric intensive care unit children Recentes mudanças foram introduzidas na forma de ventilar crianças com doenças que determinam o quadro de insuficiência respiratória aguda hipoxêmica. Há evidências que estratégias ventilatórias menos agressivas, melhoram a sobrevida de pacientes com grave lesão pulmonar. Estudos experimentais evidenciaram relação entre modalidades ventilatórias inapropriadas e retardo na melhora e até mesmo piora da lesão pulmonar aguda. A partir desta concepção, surge uma estratégia ventilatória protetora, combinada à manobra de recrutamento alveolar. Acredita-se, que esta associação na prática clínica, determina importante redução da morbidade e mortalidade, bem como, prevenção das lesões induzidas pela ventilação mecânica. Sua indicação relaciona-se com quadros de les...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Tumoral pulmonary mass secondary to Schistosoma mansoni infection resembling neoplasia: case report Indivíduos infectados com Schistosoma mansoni na fase crônica da doença podem apresentar comprometimento pulmonar com sintomatologia e alterações radiológicas variáveis. Os pulmões podem ser acometidos pela migração anômala de ovos do sistema porta para o sistema arterial pulmonar (através de anastomoses porto-sistêmicas) e menos comumente por migrações ectópicas de vermes adultos. Há casos com extenso comprometimento parenquimatoso e outros com predomínio de arterites, com hipertensão pulmonar e cor pulmonale. Paciente jovem, residente em área endêmica de esquistossomose, com massa pulmonar sugestiva de neoplasia foi submetida a toracotomia exploradora sem possibilidade de ressecção da massa. Exame histopatológico mostrou vários granulomas esquistossomóticos e hi... Clinical characteristics and quality of life of smokers at a referral center for smoking cessation CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that, for smoking cessation programs, subgroups of smokers with specific characteristics (early age at smoking onset, tobacco-related diseases, depressive disorders and use of psychoactive substances) should be identified. (Source: Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia) Treating Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly: How Low Should Diastolic BP Go? What is the lowest acceptable diastolic blood pressure (BP) in an elderly patient who is being treated for systolic hypertension? (Source: Consultant Live) Heal Yourself in 15 Days by eating MORE (not less) (NaturalNews) Can you really heal yourself by eating more food? It seems counterintuitive, but in this article -- part eleven of our 15-day self-healing series -- I'm going to share with you how eating more food can actually be a powerful tool in accelerating your body's own natural healing potential.But there's a catch, of course: It's not about eating more junk food, processed food or factory-made food. Eating more of that stuff would only promote more disease of course. It's about eating more of some specific foods and superfoods I'm going to share with you in detail right here.The whole point of this "heal yourself by eating MORE" approach is to chill out and get away from the "avoid everything" trap that becomes a psychological obstacle for a lot of people who are trying to improve th... Efficacy, safety and tolerability of aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, in women with hypertension: a pooled analysis of eight studies Authors: A H Gradman, M R Weir, M Wright, C A Bush & D L Keefe (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Long-term efficacy of a combination of amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil±hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hypertension stratified by age, race and diabetes status: a substudy of the COACH trial Long-term efficacy of a combination of amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil±hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hypertension stratified by age, race and diabetes status: a substudy of the COACH trial Journal of Human Hypertension advance online publication, March 4, 2010. doi:10.1038/jhh.2010.16 Authors: S Oparil, S G Chrysant, M Melino, J Lee, S Karki & R Heyrman (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Regular slow-breathing exercise effects on blood pressure and breathing patterns at rest Authors: D E Anderson, J D McNeely & B G Windham (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Association of resistin and adiponectin with different clinical blood pressure phenotypes Authors: C Thomopoulos, M Daskalaki, O Papazachou, N Rodolakis, A Bratsas, D P Papadopoulos, M V Papavasileiou, D Perrea & T Makris (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Long-term reproducibility of ambulatory blood pressure is superior to office blood pressure in the very elderly Authors: P Campbell, N Ghuman, D Wakefield, L Wolfson & W B White (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Hypertension Guidelines: A Major Reappraisal Critically Examines the Available Evidence (Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> S-Allyl-Mercapto-Captopril: A Novel Compound in the Treatment of Cohen-Rosenthal Diabetic Hypertensive Rats J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). S-allyl-mercapto-captopril (CPSSA) is a conjugate of captopril with allicin, an active principle in garlic with multiple beneficial actions on metabolic syndrome abnormalities, including weight preservation, observed by the authors in fructose-induced hypertensive hyperinsulinemic rats and in Koletsky rats. The aim of the study was to examine blood pressure (BP) and glucose levels in the Cohen-Rosenthal Diabetic Hypertensive (CRDH) model as well as to follow their weight preservation. CRDH rats (n=14) were fed the sugar-rich copper-free diet essential for the development of diabetes mellitus. Two months later BP and blood glucose levels were measured. CPSSA was diluted in drinking water and administered at a final dose of 53.5 mg/kg/d (n=8). Control rats (n=6)... Function and Structure of Resistance Vessels in Black and White People J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). The risk of development of hypertension is greater in black people compared to white people through mechanisms that are poorly understood. Several biological and environmental factors have been proposed. Based on the role of an increased peripheral resistance in the pathogenesis of hypertension, the authors focus in this systematic review on ethnic differences in function and mechanical properties of resistance arteries in normotensive participants. PubMed was systematically searched for papers on ethnic differences in vascular function and structure. A total of 620 papers were retrieved, of which 31 papers were included in the analysis. The available data indicate that compared to normotensive whites, normotensive black people have enhanced vascular reactivit... Percutaneous revascularization of the renal arteries offers no evidence of clinical benefit in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis—the astral trial (Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension) DTB: Using NSAIDs in cardiovascular disease Source: Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin Area: Evidence > Medication Safety In this review in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) on the use of NSAIDs in cardiovascular disease, the authors consider the evidence in the context of other unwanted effects of NSAIDs, and offer practical advice on their use of in this setting. The following topics are addressed:   . COX enzymes . Cardiovascular effects of NSAIDs . Evidence from RCTs and other studies . Effects on blood pressure . Use in hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, patients treated with low dose aspirin . Gastrointestinal and renal effects of NSAID . National prescribing advice (Source: NeLM - Patient Safety) Current concepts review: gastro-oesophageal varices in liver cirrhosis Source: N Engl J Med Area: News This review article in the New England Journal of Medicine covers recent evidence on the management of varices and variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis. Topic headings are: . Natural history and epidemiology . Pathophysiology and pathophysiological bases of therapy . Therapies that reduce portal pressure . Local therapies without portal pressure-reducing effects . Risk stratification for patients with portal hypertension . Prevention of varices and a first variceal haemorrhage . Treatment of acute variceal haemorrhage . Prevention of recurrent variceal haemorrhage . Special situations for which there is limited or no evidence . Portal hypertensive gastropathy . Associated portal-ve...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> What makes a good flap go bad?: A critical analysis of the literature of intraoperative factors related to free flap failure The purpose of this article is to discuss the various factors related to poor outcome in free flap reconstructions of the head and neck (H&N). Free tissue transfer has become the standard reconstruction technique for complex H&N defects. With the evolution of free flap use in H&N surgery, numerous factors have been proposed that adversely affect flap outcome, many with the support of only anecdotal experience. We seek to critically review the literature to assess what evidence exists for the relation of various intraoperative factors to free flap complications.Literature review.A review of the contemporary literature (1995 to present) on free flap reconstruction of the H&N was undertaken. A PubMed search using the terms head and neck, reconstruction, free flap, microvascular, failure, comp... Football as a treatment for hypertension in untrained 30–55-year-old men: a prospective randomized study The present study investigated whether football has favorable effects in the treatment of mild-to-moderate arterial hypertension in untrained middle-aged men. Twenty-five untrained males aged 31[ndash]54 year with mild-to-moderate hypertension were randomized to a football training group (FTG, two 1-h sessions per week) and a control group receiving physician-guided traditional recommendations on cardiovascular risk factor modification (doctoral advice group, DAG). After 3 months, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were lowered (P (Source: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports) Effect of antihypertensive therapy with alpha-methyldopa on uterine artery Doppler in pregnancies with hypertensive disorders. CONCLUSION: : Antihypertensive therapy using alpha-methyldopa in women presenting with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy has no significant effect on uterine artery resistance to blood flow, suggesting that it does not impair utero-placental circulation in these cases. Copyright (c) 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID: 20201113 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The Ultrasound Review of Obstetrics and Gynecology) Association of Resistin With Urinary Albumin Excretion in Nondiabetic Patients With Essential Hypertension. ConclusionsHypertensive subjects with augmented resistin levels exhibit higher albuminuria, independently of established risk factors. Moreover, the association of resistin with ACR suggests a link between resistin and microvascular disease in the early stages of essential hypertension.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.34. PMID: 20203628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension) Low vs. Higher-Dose Dark Chocolate and Blood Pressure in Cardiovascular High-Risk Patients. ConclusionsThe findings are consistent with the hypothesis that dark chocolate may be associated with a reduction in blood pressure (BP). However, due to the lack of a control group, confounding may be possible and the results should be interpreted with caution.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.29. PMID: 20203627 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Serum Uric Acid Levels and Renal Damage in Hyperuricemic Hypertensive Patients Treated With Renin-Angiotensin System Blockers. ConclusionsIn hyperuricemic hypertensives normal serum UA levels are associated with normal RV/RRI, integrated marker of tubulointerstitial damage and renal arteriolopathy, independently of RAS activation.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.33. PMID: 20203626 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension) Simvastatin Decreases Endothelial Progenitor Cell Apoptosis in the Kidney of Hypertensive Hypercholesterolemic Pigs. CONCLUSIONS: EPC are recruited but undergo apoptosis in the HTC kidney, likely because of a hostile microenvironment. Simvastatin rescues renal repair mechanisms in HTC and counteracts renal damage, which may account for its protective effects on the kidney during exposure to cardiovascular risk factors. PMID: 20203299 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology) Exploring the Potential of No-Independent Stimulators and Activators of Soluble Guanylate Cyclase for the Medical Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction. Authors: Gur S, Kadowitz PJ, Hellstrom WJ Nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is the receptor that catalyzes the formation of the intracellular messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Binding of the physiological activator, NO, to the reduced heme moiety of sGC increases the conversion of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) to cyclic GMP (cGMP) and engages crucial effector systems such as protein kinases, phosphodiesterases, and ion channels. The development of compounds that activate sGC independent of NO release has therapeutic implications. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential use of heme-dependent sGC stimulators (e.g. YC-1, BAY 41-2272, BAY 41-8543, BAY 63-2521, CFM-1571 and A-350619) and heme-independent sGC activators (e.g. BAY 58-2667, HMR-176... Diffusion-Weighted Imaging and Cognition in the Leukoariosis and Disability in the Elderly Study. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrastructural abnormalities of NABT increase with WMH severity and have a strong and independent effect on cognitive functions, whereas diffusion-weighted imaging metrics within WMH have no direct impact. This should be considered when defining outcome measures for trials that attempt to ameliorate the consequences of WMH progression. PMID: 20203319 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Stroke) Serum Potassium and Outcomes in CKD: Insights from the RRI-CKD Cohort Study. CONCLUSIONS: Although clinical practice usually emphasizes greater attention to elevated S(K) in the setting of CKD, our results suggest that patients who have CKD and low or even low-normal S(K) are at higher risk for dying than those with mild to moderate hyperkalemia. PMID: 20203167 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Long human CHGA flanking chromosome 14 sequence required for optimal BAC transgenic "rescue" of disease phenotypes in the mouse Chga knockout Chromogranin A (CHGA) plays a catalytic role in formation of catecholamine storage vesicles and also serves as precursor to the peptide fragment catestatin, a catecholamine secretory inhibitor whose expression is diminished in the hypertensive individuals. We previously reported the hypertensive, hyperadrenergic phenotype of Chga–/– knockout (KO) mice and rescue by the human ortholog. In the present study, we compare two humanized CHGA mouse models. Into the Chga null background, by bacterial artificial chromosome transgenesis human CHGA transgene has been introduced. Both lines have the complete ~12 kbp CHGA gene integrated stably in the genome but have substantial differences in CHGA expression, as well as consequent sympathochromaffin biochemistry and physiology. A mouse mod... Dynamic convergence and divergence of renal genomic and biological pathways in protection from Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension Chromosome 13 consomic and congenic rat strains were analyzed to investigate the pattern of genomic pathway utilization involved in protection against salt-sensitive hypertension and renal injury. Introgression of the entire Brown-Norway chromosome 13 (consomic SS-13BN) or nonoverlapping segments of this chromosome (congenic strains, 16 Mbp in D13Rat151–D13Rat197 or 14 Mbp in D13Rat111–D13Got22) into the genome of the Dahl salt-sensitive rat attenuated salt-induced hypertension and proteinuria. mRNA abundance profiles in the renal cortex and the renal medulla from rats receiving 0.4% or 8% NaCl diets revealed two important features of pathway recruitment in these rat strains. First, the two congenic strains shared alterations in several pathways compared with Dahl salt-sensitiv... FDA rebuffs Forest?s hypertension drug for treatment of chronic HF The FDA has snubbed Forest Laboratories' Supplemental New Drug Application submission that would have indicated nebivolol (Bystolic), currently approved for the treatment of hypertension, as an additional treatment for chronic heart failure (HF). (Source: Cardiovascular Business News) FDA rebuffs Forest?s hypertension drug for chronic HF The FDA has snubbed Forest Laboratories' Supplemental New Drug Application submission that would have indicated nebivolol (Bystolic), currently approved for the treatment of hypertension, as an additional treatment for chronic heart failure (HF). (Source: Cardiovascular Business News) Science Shows You Can Die of Boredom, Literally Monthly magazines from Reader's Digest to Cosmopolitan are inundated with tips on how to sleep better, find happiness, and weave seriously sexy hair. Taking nothing away from being happy and blowing your romantic partner's mind on valentine's day, there are few things as valuable as staying alive.Sometimes we fail to take life and death seriously. Think back to those painful days of calculus class in high school. Like the sounds of a banshee ripping out its entrails, you and your classmates probably screamed the same screams heard year after year - "I'm so bored, I could die!" And yet, did your calculus teacher care? Did they offer a hug or show the slightest empathy? Probably not. And what about the desperate pleas of innocent children on long, monotonous car rides. All children want is a...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Mad = Angry + Crazy + Dumb (Part 2 of 2) The Physical--and Cognitive--Toll of Anger  Another thing that makes anger--or perhaps I should say, unregulated, indiscriminate, or over-the-top anger--so dumb is that it uses up so much energy. Literally, it takes so much out of you. Anger is the one emotion that mobilizes every organ and muscle group in your body. After all, it's typically a response to something that, subjectively, is experienced as an imminent threat. So instinctually your body makes haste to prepare you to attack the (perceived) enemy--though in contemporary society not so much with your fists as with your vocal cords. By the same token, however, the longer your organism continues in this heightened state of arousal, the more you'll end up feeling drained, exhausted, and perhaps even depressed. If you understand... Daily aspirin 'not for the healthy' Conclusion This trial has tried to answer an important question regarding who should be given aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke. It used a systematic method to screen people and followed a reasonably large group of patients for up to 10 years in some cases. The finding of ?no statistical significance? can be an important result, and in this case suggests that any benefits from taking aspirin for this group of people are likely to be small. The risk of bleeding was also small and not technically of statistical significant. There is a non-significant trend in the results towards aspirin being harmful. As there is also a suggestion that the study may have been underpowered (planned for too few people), this implies that a larger study may have detected a significant increase ... Collaboration offers hope to glaucoma patients Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch + Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension (Source: Pharmacy Europe) Licensing agreement for NCX 116 Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch + Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension (Source: Pharmacy Europe) NicOx and Bausch and Lomb Announce Worldwide Licensing Agreement for NCX 116 Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch & Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension ROCHESTER, N.Y. and SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, France, March 3 (HSMN NewsFeed) -- NicOx S.A. (NYSE Euronext Paris: COX) a... Biopharmaceuticals, Ophthalmology, LicensingBausch & Lomb, NicOx, NCX 116, Glaucoma (Source: HSMN NewsFeed)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> U.S. Children Snacking More; Junk Calories Leading The Rise Children in the United States are snacking more than ever before on salty chips, candy and other junk food, according to a new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study. The increase in snacking, which now accounts for up to 27 percent of daily caloric intake, has occurred along with a rise in childhood obesity, a health problem that has put millions of U.S. children at risk of hypertension, heart disease and diabetes... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today) The diabetic cardiomyopathy Abstract  Diabetic cardiomyopathy has been defined as ?a distinct entity characterized by the presence of abnormal myocardial performance or structure in the absence of epicardial coronary artery disease, hypertension, and significant valvular disease?. The diagnosis stems from the detection of myocardial abnormalities and the exclusion of other contributory causes of cardiomyopathy. It rests on non-invasive imaging techniques which can demonstrate myocardial dysfunction across the spectra of clinical presentation. The presence of diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing heart failure, and the 75% of patients with unexplained idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were found to be diabetic. Diabetic patients with microvascular complications show the stronges... Management of Intraventricular Hemorrhage Abstract  Brain hemorrhage is the most fatal form of stroke and has the highest morbidity of any stroke subtype. Intraventricular extension of hemorrhage (IVH) is a particularly poor prognostic sign, with expected mortality between 50% and 80%. IVH is a significant and independent contributor to morbidity and mortality, yet therapy directed at ameliorating intraventricular clot has been limited. Conventional therapy centers on managing hypertension and intracranial pressure while correcting coagulopathy and avoiding complications such as rebleeding and hydrocephalus. Surgical therapy alone has not changed the natural history of the disease significantly. However, fibrinolysis in combination with extraventricular drainage shows promise as a technique to reduce intraventricul... Sodium Sensitivity of Blood Pressure in Chinese Populations This study indicated that approximately 39% of Chinese adults were sodium-sensitive. Sodium sensitivity was more common in women and in persons who were older and had higher usual blood pressure. Sodium sensitivity was also more common in individuals with higher responses to a cold pressor test and in individuals with the metabolic syndrome. Genetic factors may play an important role in determining sodium sensitivity in the Chinese population. A better understanding of the genetic and environmental determinants of sodium sensitivity has important public health and clinical implications. Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s11906-009-0088-4Authors Jing Chen, Tulane University School of Medicine Department of Medicine 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL45 New Orleans LA 70112 USA Jo... Study shows pine bark reduces blood pressure, counteracts kidney damage caused by hypertension (MWW Group) A new study shows pine bark naturally reduces blood pressure and counteracts kidney damage caused by hypertension. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Beta blocker therapy underused in heart failure patients (Saint Louis University) New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices. Failure to take beta blockers prior to implanting a cardiac device can affect the patient's overall outcome and survival rate. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health) Pulmonary arterial hypertension: today's choice of treatment The diagnosis and management of pulmonary arterial hypertension has been transformed by the introduction of disease-targeted therapies. Here, the authors look at the properties of these new drugs and the role of the GP in management. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Interface Ltd (Source: Prescriber) Coffee Is Generally Heart-Friendly But it may be linked to a slight rise in high blood pressure, researchers say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Caffeine, Heart Diseases, Nutrition (Source: MedlinePlus Health News) Antioxidant properties of water extracts from parching green tea Cold and hot water extracts (2, 6 and 10%) were prepared from parching green tea and its antioxidant properties studied and potential antioxidant components determined. Yields of hot water extracts (17.53[ndash]28.63%) were significantly higher than those of cold water extracts (13.34[ndash]16.14%). The half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values in antioxidant activity and reducing power were 2.17[ndash]2.75 and 0.22[ndash]0.30 mg/mL, respectively. Scavenging abilities on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals were comparable. EC50 values in scavenging ability on hydroxyl radicals and chelating ability on ferrous ions were 3.31[ndash]4.54 and 1.63[ndash]3.09 mg/mL, respectively. Contents of total phenols were 220.52[ndash]339.83 mg/g whereas those of total catechins in cold and hot... AHA: Caffeine Has Mixed Effects on Heart Health Caffeine consumption is associated with several positive or benign effects on cardiovascular health, but low-to-moderate consumption may be associated with a slightly elevated risk of hypertension, according to a series of studies presented this week at the American Heart Association's joint conference of the Council on Epidemiology and Prevention and the Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism, held from March 2 to 5 in San Francisco. (Source: Modern Medicine)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Prevalence and characteristics of sleep apnoea in patients with stable heart failure: Results from a heart failure clinic Background: Heart failure (HF) and sleep apnoea (SA) association has been recognized but whether it results from confounding factors (hypertension, ischaemia, obesity) remains unclear.We aimed to determine the prevalence of SA in HF and to identify potential risk factors for SA in HF population. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 103 patients with stable HF on optimized therapy. In-laboratory polysomnography was performed. Type and severity of SA were defined according international criteria. Demographic, anthropometric and clinical characteristics were collected. Continuous data are expressed as median and interquartile range. Results: SA was found in 72.8%, moderate to severe in a significant proportion (apnoea-hypopnoea index>/=15- 44.7% of all patients) and predominantly obstructive (... LINGO-1 negatively regulates TrkB phosphorylation after ocular hypertension The antagonism of LINGO-1, a CNS-specific negative regulator of neuronal survival, was shown to promote short-term survival of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) in an ocular hypertension model. LINGO-1 antagonists, combined with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), can increase the length of neuron survival through an unclear molecular mechanism. To determine the relationship between LINGO-1 and BDNF/TrkB receptor in neuronal protection, we show here that LINGO-1 forms a receptor complex with TrkB and negatively regulates its activation in the retina after ocular hypertension injury. LINGO-1 antagonist antibody 1A7 or soluble LINGO-1 (LINGO-1-Fc) treatment upregulates phospho-TrkB phosphorylation and leads to RGC survival after high intraocular pressure injury. This neuronal protective effe... The effect of home-delivered Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) meals on the diets of older adults with cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSION: Delivery of 7 DASH meals per week was found to increase compliance with dietary recommendations among noncompliant older adults with cardiovascular disease. PMID: 20200258 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition) Acute kidney injury: a springboard for progression in chronic kidney disease. Authors: Venkatachalam MA, Griffin KA, Lan R, Geng H, Saikumar P, Bidani AK Recently published epidemiological and outcome analysis studies have brought to our attention the important role played by acute kidney injury (AKI) in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end stage renal disease (ESRD). AKI accelerates progression in patients with CKD; conversely, CKD predisposes patients to AKI. This research gives credence to older well thought out wisdom that recovery from AKI is often not complete and is marked by residual structural damage. It also mirrors older experimental observations showing that unilateral nephrectomy, a surrogate for loss of nephrons by disease, compromises structural recovery and worsens tubulointerstitial fibrosis after ischemic AKI. Moreover, review... Pentosan Polysulfate Treatment Preserves Renal Autoregulation in Ang II-Infused Hypertensive Rats via Normalization of P2X1 Receptor Activation. In conclusion, PPS normalizes autoregulation without altering Ang II-induced hypertension, suggesting that inflammatory processes reduce P2X1 receptor reactivity and thereby impairs autoregulatory behavior in Ang II hypertensive rats. Key Words: P2X1 purinoceptor, afferent arteriole, inflammation, pentosan polysulphate. Key words: P2X1 purinoceptor, afferent arteriole, inflammation, pentosan polysulphate. PMID: 20200092 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Am J Physiol Renal P...)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Maternal Protein Restriction Leads to Hyper-Responsiveness to Stress and Salt-Sensitive Hypertension in Male Offspring. Authors: Augustyniak RA, Singh K, Zeldes D, Singh M, Rossi NF Low birth weight humans often exhibit hypertension during adulthood. Studying the offspring of rat dams fed a maternal low protein diet is one model frequently used to study the mechanisms of low birth weight related hypertension. It remains unclear if this model replicates key clinical findings of hypertension, and increased blood pressure responsiveness to stress or high salt diet. We measured blood pressure via radiotelemetry in 13 week old male offspring of maternal normal and low protein dams. Neither group exhibited hypertension at baseline; however, 1h of restraint was accompanied by a significantly greater blood pressure response in low protein compared to normal protein offspring. To enhance the effect of high salt ... The diabetic cardiomyopathy. Authors: Tarquini R, Lazzeri C, Pala L, Rotella CM, Gensini GF Diabetic cardiomyopathy has been defined as "a distinct entity characterized by the presence of abnormal myocardial performance or structure in the absence of epicardial coronary artery disease, hypertension, and significant valvular disease". The diagnosis stems from the detection of myocardial abnormalities and the exclusion of other contributory causes of cardiomyopathy. It rests on non-invasive imaging techniques which can demonstrate myocardial dysfunction across the spectra of clinical presentation. The presence of diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing heart failure, and the 75% of patients with unexplained idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were found to be diabetic. Diabetic patients with microv... Basilar artery occlusive disease in stroke survivors in a multiethnic population Abstract: Objectives: To describe clinical, radiological findings, and outcome in a multiethnic population of stroke survivors with basilar artery occlusive disease (BAOC).Methods: Forty patients with infarcts in the basilar artery (BA) territory, alive 30 days after the ictus, participated in the study. BA stenosis (>50%) or occlusion was shown by magnetic resonance or digital subtraction angiography in all patients. Demographical, clinical and radiological characteristics were described. Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) scores at 30 days and 6 months after the ischemic event were evaluated. Association between demographical, clinical, radiological features and outcome were analyzed with Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. MRS scores at 30 days and 6 months were compared with the Wilcoxon tes... Hypertension is a major risk factor for future atherosclerotic changes in the Japanese population Conclusion The risk of future cardiovascular changes is significantly greater with higher SBP in the Japanese population. (Source: Annals of Clinical Biochemistry) The von Hippel-Lindau Chuvash mutation promotes pulmonary hypertension and fibrosis in mice Mutation of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor protein at codon 200 (R200W) is associated with a disease known as Chuvash polycythemia. In addition to polycythemia, Chuvash patients have pulmonary hypertension and increased respiratory rates, although the pathophysiological basis of these symptoms is unclear. Here we sought to address this issue by studying mice homozygous for the R200W Vhl mutation (VhlR/R mice) as a model for Chuvash disease. These mice developed pulmonary hypertension independently of polycythemia and enhanced normoxic respiration similar to Chuvash patients, further validating VhlR/R mice as a model for Chuvash disease. Lungs from VhlR/R mice exhibited pulmonary vascular remodeling, hemorrhage, edema, and macrophage infiltration, and lungs from older ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Microsoft unveils CDM project Coverage from HIMSS10 Microsoft and the Cleveland Clinic yesterday announced the results of a chronic disease management project for patients with hypertension, diabetes and heart failure. (Source: E-Health-Insider) Microsoft unveils CDM project Coverage from HIMSS10 Microsoft and the Cleveland Clinic yesterday announced the results of a chronic disease management project for patients with hypertension, diabetes and heart failure. (Source: E-Health Europe News) BHS reaffirms its guidance (Source: BMJ Online First) Correlates of self-care behaviors for managing hypertension among Korean Americans: A questionnaire survey Conclusions: Hypertension control self-efficacy emerged as the most significant contributing factor to hypertension self-care. Future intervention programs should focus on improving hypertension control self-efficacy as a modifiable personal factor. (Source: International Journal of Nursing Studies) Adiponectin acts as a positive indicator of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Conclusions These data document that adiponectin is an indicator of LV diastolic dysfunction in patients with HCM. (Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> The antiplatelet effect of aspirin is reduced by proton pump inhibitors in patients with coronary artery disease Conclusions Patients with CAD treated with PPIs had a reduced platelet response to aspirin, as shown by increased residual platelet aggregation and platelet activation, compared with patients with CAD not taking PPIs. Concomitant use of aspirin and PPIs might reduce the cardiovascular protection by aspirin. (Source: Heart) What can adiponectin say about left ventricular function? (Source: Heart) The angiotensin II type 2 receptor in the brain Recent clinical studies indicate that blockade of the renin-angiotensin system is important to prevent stroke, and accumulating results of basic research also indicate the possible involvement of the central renin-angiotensin system in ischaemic brain damage and cognition. When the angiotensin II type 1 receptor is blocked by an angiotensin type 1 receptor blocker, unbound angiotensin II acts preferentially on the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor. These results suggest the pathophysiological importance of the AT2 receptor in the clinical use of angiotensin type 1 receptor blockers, which are widely used in patients with hypertension with the expectation of a decrease in the onset of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. We review here the possible roles of AT2 receptor activation... The angiotensin II type 2 receptor in cardiovascular disease Angiotensin II (Ang II) is considered the major final mediator of the renin-angiotensin system. The actions of Ang II have been implicated in many cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, restenosis, and heart failure. Ang II can act through two different receptors: Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor and Ang II type 2 (AT2) receptor. The AT1 receptor is ubiquitously expressed in the cardiovascular system and mediates most of the physiological and pathophysiological actions of Ang II. The AT2 receptor is highly expressed in the developing foetus, but its expression is very low in the cardiovascular system of the normal adult. Expression of the AT2 receptor can be modulated by pathological states associated with tissue remodelling or inflammation su... The angiotensin II type 2 receptor and the kidney Recent knowledge demonstrated that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) functions as a local renal paracrine system. All components of the RAS are present within the kidney and include angiotensinogen, renin, angiotensin I, angiotensin-converting enzymes, angiotensin II, the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor and the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor. Angiotensin II is the major effector hormone of the RAS and contributes to a variety of renal and cardiovascular physiologic and pathologic mechanisms through stimulation of AT1 and AT2 receptors. Angiotensin receptor blockers were developed based on the advanced knowledge of the AT1 receptor contribution to development of a variety of kidney, vascular and cardiac diseases including but not limited to hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, he...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Best Strategies for Hypertension Management in Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity Abstract  Insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease cluster together, and the incidence of all of these disease states is increasing throughout the world. Current strategies for hypertension management?including the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium antagonists, and thiazide diuretics?are effective for most patients. However, as the incidence of hypertension increases in this target population, so does that of resistant hypertension. As such, significant research and effort must be put forth to bring blood pressure to goal and delay or prevent target organ damage. Such efforts should frequently include a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker such as a... Primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in Egyptian children: a 10-year single-centre experience In conclusion, in this study we had a low percentage of FSGS, and fewer patients presenting with gross haematuria and hypertension compared with previous reports. In addition, the short-term overall renal survival seems to be better in our cohort. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Brief ReportDOI 10.1007/s00467-010-1448-7Authors Ahmed M. El-Refaey, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAshraf Bakr, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAyman Hammad, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAtef Elmougy, Mansoura University Pediatric Nep... Comparison of Endothelial Biomarkers According to Reversibility of Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Congenital Heart Disease This study aimed to document endothelial markers further according to the irreversibility of PAH secondary to CHD. The study investigated soluble markers of endothelial damage or activation (thrombomodulin, soluble endothelial protein C receptor, and soluble E-selectin), inflammation (interleukin-6), and angiogenic cytokine levels [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF)] in 26 patients with CHD, 16 with reversible PAH (median age, 2 years) and 10 with irreversible PAH (median age, 9 years). Endothelial activation/apoptosis was evaluated by measuring EMP levels. Plasma procoagulant activity also was measured. The results show that the levels of soluble markers indicating endothelial activation were not predictors of PAH irreversibility.... U.S. Has Racial Gap in Stroke Rate Title: U.S. Has Racial Gap in Stroke RateCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/2/2010 10:19:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 3/2/2010 10:19:48 AM (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Persistence on prostaglandin ocular hypotensive therapy: an assessment using medication possession and days covered on therapy Conclusions: Persistence with ocular prostaglandin therapy remains a problem. Latanoprost users had greater odds of achieving medication possession and had more days covered during the first therapy year. (Source: BioMed Central)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> The influence of geographic life environments on cardiometabolic risk factors: a systematic review, a methodological assessment and a research agenda Recent environmental changes play a role in the dramatic increase in the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) such as obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemias and the metabolic syndrome in industrialized countries. Therefore, identifying environmental characteristics that are associated with risk factors is critical to develop more effective public health interventions. We conducted a systematic review of the literature investigating relationships between characteristics of geographic life environments and CMRFs (131 articles). Most studies were published after 2006, relied on cross-sectional designs, and examined whether sociodemographic and physical environmental characteristics, and more recently service environment characteristics, were associated with obesit... Case Study: 46-Year-Old Woman is Referred For Evaluation of her Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, and Borderline Diabetes A 46-year-old woman is referred by her primary care physician for the evaluation of moderate hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, and borderline diabetes. Of particular relevance is a history of fasting triglycerides (TGs) ranging from 250-400 mg/dl over the last 6 months, with the high-density lipop. . . (Source: Cardiosource) Systematic reviews: Vitamin D effects on cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes Source: Ann Intern Med Area: News Two systematic reviews published in Annals of Internal Medicine examine the evidence for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits from vitamin D.   There is increasing evidence that vitamin D is involved in a wide range of physiological processes apart from its well-established effects on bone health. Amongst these are effects that may modify cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and there is interest in whether supplementation in people with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency might reduce cardiovascular mortality or morbidity.   The first review examines whether there is evidence for effects on cardio-metabolic outcomes (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease). It was carried out as part of a wider evidence report for a pa... Systematic review: vitamin d and cardiometabolic outcomes. Conclusion: The association between vitamin D status and cardiometabolic outcomes is uncertain. Trials showed no clinically significant effect of vitamin D supplementation at the dosages given. Primary Funding Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and Public Health Agency of Canada. PMID: 20194237 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Internal Medicine) Dietary Intake and Serum and Hair Concentrations of Minerals and their Relationship with Serum Lipids and Glucose Levels in Hypertensive and Obese Patients with Insulin Resistance. Authors: Suliburska J, Bogdański P, Pupek-Musialik D, Krejpcio Z Inadequate minerals intake, as well as disruption of some metabolic processes in which microelements are cofactors, are suggested to lead to the development of hypertension. The role of minerals in the pathogenesis of hypertension still remains to be explained. In the present study, we sought to determine associations between serum and hair mineral concentrations and serum lipids and glucose levels. Forty obese hypertensive subjects with insulin resistance and 40 healthy volunteers were recruited in the study. Blood pressure, BMI, and insulin resistance were recorded in all subjects. Levels of lipids, glucose, sodium and potassium, iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, and calcium were assessed in serum. Iron, copper, zinc...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Case Study: A 46-Year-Old Woman is Referred For Evaluation of her Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, and Borderline Diabetes A 46-year-old woman is referred by her primary care physician for the evaluation of moderate hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, and borderline diabetes. Of particular relevance is a history of fasting triglycerides (TGs) ranging from 250-400 mg/dl over the last 6 months, with the high-density lipop. . . (Source: Cardiosource) The metabolic syndrome: Prevalence, main characteristics and association with socio-economic status in adults living in Great Tunis. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of the MetS is markedly high within the population of Great Tunis and especially in women. As these findings predict future increases in cardiovascular disease in these populations, substantial efforts need to be made to fight against obesity and sedentary lifestyles to ameliorate the expected poor health outcomes. PMID: 20202880 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Diabetes and Metabolism) Vital Signs: Awareness: Report Calls for Spotlight on Hypertension Though high blood pressure is prevalent in the United States, many Americans don?t know they have it and doctors are lax about treating it, a new report found. (Source: NYT > Health) Epinephrine/midodrine/prednisone: Severe transient hypertension: case report (Source: Reactions) 006 Normobaric hypoxia impairs cardiac energetics in normal human volunteers (Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> 009 Endothelial-specific overexpression of Nox2 enhances angiotensin II-induced cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis (Source: Heart) 018 Guanidinoacetate N-methyltransferase knockout mice exhibit normal left ventricular remodelling, haemodynamics and survival after myocardial infarction despite lack of phosphocreatine (Source: Heart) 024 Endothelial Nox4 NADPH oxidase enhances vasodilatation via hydrogen peroxide-induced hyperpolarisation and reduces blood pressure (Source: Heart) 025 Is Depressed myocyte contractility an early event in the natural history of heart failure? (Source: Heart) 026 Plasma levels of the novel vasodilatory gas hydrogen sulphide are associated with adiposity (Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Assessing outcomes after paediatric cardiac surgery: which test is best? (Source: Heart) Deformation imaging describes right ventricular function better than longitudinal displacement of the tricuspid ring Conclusions RV function of CTEPH patients improves steadily after PEA. Unlike S, SR and RVFAC, this is not reflected by TAPSE because of postoperative changes in overall heart motion. Motion independent deformation parameters (S, SR) appear superior in the accurate description of regional RV function (Source: Heart) Elevated left atrial pressure estimated by Doppler echocardiography is a key determinant of mitral valve tenting in functional mitral regurgitation Conclusions In both patients with preserved and reduced LVEF, mitral tenting that leads to FMR is mainly determined by both mitral tethering forces—that is, displacement of papillary muscles and by pushing forces—that is, increased left atrial pressure. This study underscores that LV preload is a key determinant of FMR. (Source: Heart) Biomarkers in heart failure (Source: Heart) Resolution of ST-segment depression: a new prognostic marker in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction Conclusion When ST depression is present in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI, STD-R<50% provides independent prognostic value that is incremental to STE-R. (Source: European Heart Journal)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> New insights into the relationship of left ventricular geometry and left ventricular mass with cardiac function: a population study of hypertensive subjects Conclusion In hypertensives, hypertrophic remodelling is independently associated with impaired LV function and increased LV filling pressure. Increasing degrees of non-hypertrophic concentric remodelling are associated with attenuated diastolic function, but augmented systolic function, possibly representing an adaptive response to pressure overload physiology. (Source: European Heart Journal) Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data to identify the major determinants of carotid intima-media thickness in a European population: the IMPROVE study Conclusion Latitude is an important determinant of C-IMT, which is not explained by between-country differences in established VRFs. Other unknown contributory mechanisms such as heritable, nutritional, or environmental factors may be important in the genesis of this geographical gradient. (Source: European Heart Journal) Persistent Ocular Hypertension Following Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Ranibizumab Injections Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Feb 2010, Vol. 26, No. 1: 105-110. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics) Management and Controversies in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Pediatric Asthma, Allergy & Immunology , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Pediatric Asthma, Allergy) Management and Controversies in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Pediatric Asthma, Allergy & Immunology , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Pediatric Asthma, Allergy)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div> Cocaine mules: what to do with body packers 2.5 out of 5 stars Clinical management of cocaine body packers: the Hillingdon experience. Beckley I et al. Can J Surg 2009;52:417-421. Full text This retrospective observational study looked at 5-years of experience with patients suspected of being cocaine body packers referred to Hilldingdon Hospital in Uxbridge, England. Since that hospital is located just outside of Heathrow Airport in London, the study population is considerable: 590 suspected body packers referred to hospital, 351 with packets visible on abdominal x-ray, 61 admitted to Hillingdon Hospital. Fifty-six of these patients were managed conservatively, with laxatives or whole-bowel irrigation (WBI). Six patients developed signs and symptoms of cocaine intoxication (hypertension, tachycardia, agitation, seizure)... The Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, a longitudinal cohort study on health disparities in Puerto Rican adults: challenges and opportunities. Conclusions: The enrollment of minority groups presents unique challenges. This report highlights approaches to working with difficult to reach populations, and describe some of the health issues and needs of Puerto Rican older adults. These results may inform future studies and interventions aiming to improve the health of this and similar communities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) Atherosclerotic disease location and disparities in the control and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes Conclusions In subjects with Type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic disease, control of modifiable CVD risk factors but not intensity of medication treatment is modified by atherosclerotic disease territory. Intensity of medication treatment is different between risk factors. (Source: Diabetic Medicine) 2010 American Thoracic Society Research Program The American Thoracic Society and our partners in research are pleased to announce the 2010 ATS Research Program portfolio of grants. The ATS is grateful to its partners and members for the success of the new research program.Potential applicants should submit a letter of intent using the LOI application that is available through the proposalCENTRAL website at https://proposalcentral.altum.com. The letters of intent will be used to narrow the number of applicants for each grant category, in order to avoid having a large number of applicants competing for a limited number of grants. Letters of intent should be submitted via the proposalCENTRAL website by 9:00 am Eastern Time on Monday March 15, 2010. Late submissions will not be accepted. 2010 ATS Research Program Portfolio (funding to beg...

Salt and Hypertension guide

Salt And Hypertension – The Dangerous Combination
By Nancy Drew

It has been observed that there is indeed a close connection between salt (sodium) and hypertension as the more salt you consume, the higher your blood pressure would shoot up. Of course, the condition is that you should be already suffering from hypertension to experience this effect fully, though sometimes salt intake affects even people with normal blood pressure adversely.

There are many other damages that are directly caused by the consumption of excess salt, such as water retention in the body causing hands and feet to swell because the tissues would store fluid; osteoporosis or thinning of the bones, aggravation of asthma, acceleration of kidney disease and even stomach cancer.

The Salt And Hypertension Connection?

There is only one thing to do here, i.e. cut off the consumption of salt. According to the DHFSA (Department of Health and Food Standards) the optimal amount of salt an adult should consume per day should not exceed five to six grams. If you can do without salt, it would

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Lateral sinus thrombosis as a complication of acute mastoiditis in children
We have read with great interest the recent article by Christensen et al. , which presents important clinical observations for otogenic intracranial complications. It was a well-conducted study of lateral sinus thrombosis of otitis media in children. We would like to present some comments on this problem based on our experience and literature review. Authors presented seven cases of lateral sinus thrombosis (LST) in children as complications of acute otitis media (AOM)?four cases and chronic otitis media (COM)?three cases. LST is a rare intracranial complication of otitis media which contributes to lack of clear guidelines of how to manage this entity, i.e. the time of introduction of antibiotic therapy, whether to remove clot from the sinus or to ligate internal jugular vein (IJV), et...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Licorice ? or more?
Exp Clin Endocrinol DiabetesDOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1224123AbstractA 57 yr old man presented to endocrinology clinic with a six year history of poorly controlled hypertension which was treated with Metoprolol 200 mg/day and Enalapril 20 mg/day. He was asymptomatic but incidentally hypokalaemia was detected while having cholecystectomy, two years prior to his clinic appointment. He had never been on diuretics or laxatives. He was started on potassium supplements (120 mmol/d) and advised to increase dietary potassium by the surgical team. A detailed personal history revealed ingestion of 300–500 g licorice per day. Physical examination was unremarkable apart from increased blood pressure of 180/105 mmHg. Following the initial visit, his serum electrolyes (K+3....
Treat Ocular Hypertension Early (CME/CE)
Patients at high risk for glaucoma because of ocular hypertension appeared to benefit from early drug treatment, researchers said. (Source: MedPage Today Ophthalmology)
Unusual Features of Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
In conclusion, apical HC in a teaching hospital without a specialized HC clinic and in a predominantly Caucasian population is a disease of the elderly. Documented late morphologic evolution is not uncommon, with a high incidence of coronary fistulae and morbid atrial fibrillation. (Source: The American Journal of Cardiology)
Variations in the prevalence of point (pre)hypertension in a Nigerian school-going adolescent population living in a semi-urban and an urban area
Conclusions: The prevalence of both disorders is considerably high in the studied populations. Urgent pediatric public health action is needed to address the situation. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)
Pine bark extract may help kidneys
CHIETI, Italy, March 8 (UPI) -- Italian researchers say pine bark extract may help counteract kidney damage due to high blood pressure. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Early Right Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis Without Pulmonary Hypertension: A Doppler Tissue and Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Study
Does isovolumetric acceleration on tissue Doppler help detect early right ventricular systolic dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis without pulmonary hypertension? Cardiovascular Ultrasound (Source: Medscape Rheumatology Headlines)
Delaying Treatment of Ocular Hypertension: The Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study [Clinical Trial]
Objective  To compare the safety and efficacy of earlier vs later treatment in preventing primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in individuals with ocular hypertension. Methods  One thousand six hundred thirty-six individuals with intraocular pressure (IOP) from 24 to 32 mm Hg in 1 eye and 21 to 32 mm Hg in the fellow eye were randomized to observation or to topical ocular hypotensive medication. Median time of treatment in the medication group was 13.0 years. After a median of 7.5 years without treatment, the observation group received medication for a median of 5.5 years. To determine if there is a penalty for delaying treatment, we compared the cumulative proportions of participants who developed POAG at a median follow-up of 13 years in the original observation group and in the ...
Suppression of Corticosteroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in Sheep by Anecortave [Laboratory Sciences]
Conclusion  Elucidation of the mechanisms of action of anecortave in animal models may prove relevant to the design of novel interventions for the management of primary open-angle glaucoma. (Source: Archives of Opthalmology)
Treatment of Ocular Hypertension: Hamlet's Lament Revisited [Editorial]
(Source: Archives of Opthalmology)
Suppression and Reduction of Corticosteroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension by Anecortave in Sheep [Editorial]
(Source: Archives of Opthalmology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
5. The adjustment of autonomic nervous system function (ANSA method) and personalized medicine:new approach in diagnostics and treatment of disease
According to new data from different studies about connection of heart rate variability and genetical factors is confirmed that there is clear genetical determination of autonomic nervous system status. Regarding to possible existence of constant sympathovagal balance in the basal stage, we made hypothesis that the matching of the drug and dose of every disease treatment depend of the type of sympathovagal balance. The goal of research was to use this methodology in the testing of patients with myocardial infarction, hypertension, syncopes and healthy persons. The patients were divided in two clear groups related to predominance of sympaticus or vagus with subgroups with moderate and strong activity. The groups were created according to normal values from tables. After the follow up of pat...
Wine and women's weight
Conclusion This large cohort study that followed middle-aged women for almost 13 years found that there was an association between greater alcohol consumption and slightly slower weight gain over this period. Despite the tone of press coverage, it should be remembered that this type of study can only show associations between factors, and cannot say how or whether alcohol directly causes the slower weight gain. There are also a number of limitations to this research, some of which the researchers have highlighted: The participants self-reported their weights and alcohol consumption, which may have resulted in a misclassification or underestimation of these values. The study used a single measurement of alcohol consumption taken at the start of the study. It is likely that the partici...
Wireless Surveillance for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts (TIPS) A Feasibility Study
Conclusion: The use of wireless sensors may facilitate the surveillance of shunt function in patients with portal hypertension who have undergone placement of TIPS. (Source: Academic Radiology)
Hypertension seen as neglected disease
More aggressive screening, improved surveillance and less-expensive medications could reduce the number of U.S. adults with the cardiovascular risk factor, an IOM report says. (Source: American Medical News - PROFESSION)
Effectively Evaluating The Hemodynamics Of Gastric Varices
Gastric varices (GV) are an important complication of portal hypertension. As an almost atraumatic method, computed tomography (CT) angiography has been used widely to show the portal vein system. However, the collateral circulation of GV in different locations has been reported only rarely. A research article published on February 28, 2010 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology addresses this problem... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Effectively Evaluating The Hemodynamics Of Gastric Varices
Gastric varices (GV) are an important complication of portal hypertension. As an almost atraumatic method, computed tomography (CT) angiography has been used widely to show the portal vein system. However, the collateral circulation of GV in different locations has been reported only rarely... (Source: GastroIntestinal News From Medical News Today)
Elderly patients aggressively over-treated with pharmaceuticals
(NaturalNews) Researchers from the Cochrane Collaboration research group have determined that seniors over the age of 80 are being given too many drugs and in too high of doses. Particularly with high blood pressure, doctors are too aggressively treating the elderly with pharmaceuticals which is doing them more harm than good.According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly a quarter of all Americans between 20 and 75 have hypertension while roughly 70 percent of those over 75 have it.The conventional approach to treating high blood pressure is to prescribe a variety of drugs that, together, doctors hope will achieve a target of 140/90 mmHg. However after scouring several studies to see if such treatments are actually working, Dr. James Wright, head of Cochran...
U.S. Attempts to Reduce Salt Intake
(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- With 73 million Americans suffering from high blood pressure, the U.S. food service industry is attempting to make a change in public health by reducing the amount of salt added tp processed foods. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)
Multidisciplinary Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program Established
The new, multidisciplinary BWH Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program aims to promptly evaluate, and treat patients with complex pulmonary vascular problems including pulmonary arterial hypertension. (Source: BWH News)
Intraperitoneal LPS amplifies portal hypertension in rat liver fibrosis
Authors: Christian J Steib, Anna C Hartmann, Christoph v Hesler, Andreas Benesic, Martin Hennenberg, Manfred Bilzer & Alexander L Gerbes (Source: Laboratory Investigation AOP)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Impairment of endothelial SKCa channels and of downstream hyperpolarizing pathways in mesenteric arteries from spontaneously hypertensive rats
Conclusions and implications: In SHRs, the distinct pathway that generates endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization in vascular myocyte by activation of IKCa channels and Na+/K+-ATPases remains intact. The second pathway, initiated by endothelial SKCa channel activation and amplified by KIR opening on both endothelial cells and myocytes is compromised in SHRs due to down-regulation of both SKCa and KIR and to changes in caveolin-1 oligomers. These impairments in the SKCa[ndash]KIR pathway shed new light on vascular control mechanisms and on the underlying vascular changes in hypertension. (Source: British Journal of Pharmacology)
Association of the C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene with sudden sensorineural hearing loss
To investigate the recently reported association of the C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), we analyzed data from a community-based Japanese population.Nested case-control study.Among 2,174 adults (1,096 males and 1,078 females) aged 40 to 79 years old who participated in the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging, we compared 33 cases of prevalent SSNHL, defined as a self-reported otolaryngologist diagnosis, with the other cases. Multiple logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) for SSNHL in subjects with the MTHFR C677T polymorphism, with adjustment for other possibly influential factors under additive, dominant, and recessive genetic models.The per-allele...
Lipid levels in sickle-cell disease associated with haemolytic severity, vascular dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in sickle cell disease (SCD) is an emerging and important clinical problem. In a single-institution adult cohort of 365 patients, we investigated lipid and lipoprotein levels and their relationship to markers of intravascular haemolysis, vascular dysfunction and PH. In agreement with prior studies, we confirm significantly decreased plasma levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) in SCD versus ethnically-matched healthy controls. Several cholesterol parameters correlated significantly with markers of anaemia, but not endothelial activation or PH. More importantly, serum triglyceride levels were significantly elevated in SCD compared to controls. Elevated triglyceride levels correlat...
Effect of eculizumab on haemolysis-associated nitric oxide depletion, dyspnoea, and measures of pulmonary hypertension in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of haemolytic anaemia. Intravascular haemolysis leads to nitric oxide (NO) depletion, endothelial and smooth muscle dysregulation, and vasculopathy, characterized by progressive hypertension. PH has been reported in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), a life-threatening haemolytic disease. We explored the relationship between haemolysis, systemic NO, arginine catabolism and measures of PH in 73 PNH patients enrolled in the placebo-controlled TRIUMPH (Transfusion Reduction Efficacy and Safety Clinical Investigation Using Eculizumab in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria) study. At baseline, intravascular haemolysis was associated with elevated NO consumption (P < 0·0001) and arginase-1 release (P < 0·0001). Almost...
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt with accidental diagnosis of persistence of the left superior vena cava.
This report describes a rare vascular malformation characterized by the absence of the right superior vena cava and persistence of the left superior vena cava in a patient with a diagnosis of advanced liver cirrhosis who needed a TIPSS placement in order to control refractory ascites. PMID: 20205290 [PubMed - in process] (Source: World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
The Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive (VISTA): results and impact on future stroke trials and management of stroke patients
The Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive was established to improve stroke care and trial design through the collation, categorization and potential access to data sets from clinical trials for the treatment of stroke. Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive currently provides access to a combined data set of 29 anonymised acute stroke trials and one acute stroke registry with data on >27 500 patients aged between 18 and 103 (mean 71) years. Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive has facilitated research across a broad canvas. The prognosis was poor in patients with very high blood pressure at the time of admission or with a wide variability of systolic blood pressure during the acute phase. The late occurrence of hyperthermia following an ischaemic stroke worsens the progn...
Extrinsic compression of the left coronary ostium by the pulmonary trunk: management in a case of eisenmenger syndrome.
Authors: Sivakumar K, Rajan M, Francis G, Murali K, Bashi V Extrinsic compression of the left main coronary artery by a massively dilated pulmonary artery in patients who have severe pulmonary hypertension can lead to significant myocardial ischemia. A 58-year-old man with a large patent ductus arteriosus and Eisenmenger syndrome presented with angina at rest and worsening heart failure of 3 months' duration. The new symptoms were recognized to be secondary to extrinsic compression of the left main coronary artery ostium by a dilated main pulmonary artery and were successfully relieved by the placement of a metallic stent in the affected segment of the left main coronary artery. Multislice computed tomographic imaging after 6 months showed stent patency and the intimate relation of the...
Management of High Blood Pressure in African Americans and the 2010 ISHIB Consensus Statement: Meeting an Unmet Need
(Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)
Risk factors and alterations in blood pressure levels in undergraduate nursing students
Conclusion: There is a need to emphasize lifestyle changes among those future nurses.Objetivos: Medir la presión arterial para identificar posibles alteraciones en profesionales graduandos en Enfermería; identificar factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial; verificar la asociación entre los niveles de presión y los factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal, desarrollado entre noviembre de 2006 y mayo de 2007. La muestra fue compuesta por 120 graduandos de enfermería de la Universidad Federal de Sao Paulo. Fue aplicado un cuestionario específico sobre factores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial y para evaluar la presión arterial. La Prueba de Fischer fue usada para determinar posibles asociaciones. Resultados: 92,5% de los graduan...
Children and adolescents with familiar history of high blood pressure: risk factors for cardiovascular diseases
Conclusion: Early identification of risk factors for high blood pressure may be an important strategy to prevent the development of other cardiovascular diseases.Objetivo: Identificar en un grupo de niños y adolescentes con historia familiar de hipertensión arterial, la presencia de indicadores de riesgo para hipertensión arterial. Métodos: estudio desarrollado con 141 individuos de seis a 18 años en una comunidad de la ciudad de Fortaleza con recolección de datos realizada en el domicilio. Resultados: los indicadores de riesgo que aparecieron con más frecuencia fueron la ingestión de sal, sedentarismo y escasa ingestión de legumbres. Los promedios de presión arterial fueron mayores en los individuos del sexo masculino. Aquellos que refirieron hacer uso de sal en la alimentación...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Erratum
In Lacey J. Benson, Robert Cohn and David C. Kaelber’s article ‘The association of continuity of care on the diagnosis of hypertension in children and adoles- cents’, 13(4): 361–369, 2009, DOI: 10.1177/1367493509344680, the following errors have been identified: Dr. Robert Cohn’s affiliations should have read: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA. Dr. David Kaelber’s affiliation should have read: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Internal Medicine and Information Services, The MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA. The editors and publishers apologise to the authors and regret any inconvenience caused. (Sour...
Medicine-induced collapse, cracking joints and a calendar for the partially sighted
In Doctor's Diary this week, James Le Fanu describes medicine-induced collapse (MIC) and a new giant calendar for the partially sighted. (Source: Telegraph Health)
Prevalence and characteristics of the metabolic syndrome among adults in Beijing, China.
This study was performed to investigate the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome using a large representative sample in Beijing. Data from a total of 16442 adults (6489 men and 9953 women) aged ?18 years from a survey of behavioral risk factors for chronic diseases in Beijing, in 2005, was analyzed. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome increased with age and the age-standardized prevalence of the metabolic syndrome defined by International Diabetes Federation IDF and National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III ATPIII criteria were 23.2% (24.5% in men and 22.7% in women) and 16.2% (16.1% in men and 16.6% in women), respectively. The metabolic syndrome was higher in semi-urban areas and associated with higher rates of hypertension, central obesity, salt intake and sm...
Regular painkillers and hearing loss
Conclusion This study found an association between regular use of three types of painkiller and a small increased risk in hearing loss. This type of study can only find associations, it cannot demonstrate that these painkillers caused the hearing loss. The researchers highlight some limitations of their study: Men were categorised as having hearing loss based on their own admission in the questionnaire on whether it had been diagnosed by a professional. Participants who did not report hearing loss were considered to not be impaired. The best way to assess hearing would have been through standard pure-tone audiometry, but this could not be performed due to cost and logistics reasons. The researchers did not have information on the participants? lifetime noise exposure or the reasons...
Pycnogenol Lowers Elevated Urinary Protein Levels And Improves Blood Flow To The Kidneys
An estimated one in ten adults suffers from kidney disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. A leading cause of kidney disease is hypertension, which effects one out of every four U.S. adults. Chronically high blood pressure damages capillaries of the kidneys which in turn affects the organ's ability to filter waste and remove excess fluids from the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Pycnogenol Lowers Elevated Urinary Protein Levels And Improves Blood Flow To The Kidneys
An estimated one in ten adults suffers from kidney disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. A leading cause of kidney disease is hypertension, which effects one out of every four U.S. adults... (Source: Hypertension News From Medical News Today)
Beta Blocker Therapy Underused In Heart Failure Patients
New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices. Failure to take beta blockers prior to implanting a cardiac device can affect the patient's overall outcome and survival rate, says Paul Hauptman, M.D., SLUCare cardiologist and professor of internal medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and lead author of the study... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Beta Blocker Therapy Underused In Heart Failure Patients
New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices... (Source: Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today)
Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood Pressure
Title: Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood PressureCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/4/2010 8:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/5/2010 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
25 Years of the American Society of Hypertension—Where We Have Been and Where Should We Be Going?
(Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Electronic Medical Records as a Research Tool: Evaluating Topiramate Use at a Headache Center
Conclusions.[mdash] Findings from our study using EMR demonstrate that physicians use topiramate at many different doses and for many off-label indications. This analysis provided important insight into our patient populations and treatment patterns. (Headache 2010;[bull][bull]:[bull][bull]-[bull][bull]) (Source: Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain)
Use of inhaled nitric oxide in the new born period: results from the European inhaled nitric oxide registry
Conclusion: Collating and reporting data about iNO therapy in neonates across a number of European centres using a web-based system is feasible. These data may be used to monitor the clinical use of iNO, identify adverse effects, generate research hypotheses and promote high standards in the clinical use of iNO. (Source: Acta Paediatrica)
Identifying women with severe angiographic coronary disease
Conclusions. Women referred for first diagnostic angiography have lower rates of severe CAD compared with men across all ages. Whilst conventional risk factors, age, sex, diabetes, smoking and hyperlipidaemia are primary determinants of CAD amongst women and men, CCS Class IV angina is more likely to be associated with severe CAD in women than men. (Source: Journal of Internal Medicine)
Potential functional and survival benefit of double over single lung transplantation for selected patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a frequent indication for lung transplantation (LTX) with pulmonary hypertension (PH) negatively affecting outcome. The optimal procedure type remains a debated topic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pretransplant PH in IPF patients. Single LTX (SLTX, n = 46) was the standard procedure type. Double LTX (DLTX, n = 30) was only performed in cases of relevant PH or additional suppurative lung disease. There was no significant difference for pretransplant clinical parameters. Preoperative mean pulmonary arterial pressure was significantly higher in DLTX recipients (22.7 ± 0.8 mmHg vs. 35.9 ± 1.8 mmHg, P < 0.001). After transplantation, 6-min-walk distance and BEST-FEV1 were significantly higher for DLTX patients (6-MWD: 410 ± 25 m v...
Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood Pressure
Findings may explain link between breathing in dirty air and heart problems Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Air Pollution, High Blood Pressure (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Effectiveness of an Interventional Program to Improve Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Patients at High Risk for Developing Heart Failure: HEROIC Study
J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). The Efectividad de un Programa de Intervención en el Control de la Presión Arterial de los Hipertensos en Riesgo de Desarrollar Insuficiencia Cardiaca (HEROIC) study was designed to assess whether an educational program for primary care physicians could improve blood pressure (BP) control in hypertensive patients at high risk for developing heart failure. The program contained a combination of educational training (live group sessions or online training) and information feedback. Two hundred twenty-six physicians completed the program and provided valid data in 2489 patients before and 2168 after 1 year. There was a small but significant reduction of [minus]1.1 mm Hg (P=.009) in systolic BP and a higher proportion of patients achieved their BP target (13.6% ...
Dietary fat modifications and blood pressure in subjects with the metabolic syndrome in the LIPGENE dietary intervention study.
The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of an isoenergetic change in the quantity and quality of dietary fat on BP in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. In a 12-week European multi-centre, parallel, randomised controlled dietary intervention trial (LIPGENE), 486 subjects were assigned to one of the four diets distinct in fat quantity and quality: two high-fat diets rich in saturated fat or monounsaturated fat and two low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate diets with or without 1.2 g/d of very long-chain n-3 PUFA supplementation. There were no overall differences in systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP or pulse pressure (PP) between the dietary groups after the intervention. The high-fat diet rich in saturated fat had minor unfavourable effects on SBP and PP in males. ...
Simplified Pulse Reactor for Real-Time Long-Term In Vitro Testing of Biological Heart Valves.
The objective of this work was development of an easy to handle real-time pulse reactor for evaluation of biological and tissue engineered heart valves under different pressures and long-term conditions. The pulse reactor was made of medical grade materials for placement in a 37 degrees C incubator. Heart valves were mounted in a housing disc moving horizontally in culture medium within a cylindrical culture reservoir. The microprocessor-controlled system was driven by pressure resulting in a cardiac-like cycle enabling competent opening and closing of the leaflets with adjustable pulse rates and pressures between 0.25 to 2 Hz and up to 180/80 mmHg, respectively. A custom-made imaging system with an integrated high-speed camera and image processing software allow calculation of effective o...
International Women?s Day: A girl called 'Good News'
In Burundi becoming pregnant is a matter of life and death. According to the World Health Organisation, the maternal mortality rate is 11 for every 1,000 live births, while the neonatal mortality rate is 41 per 1,000 live births. Since 2008, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has been running a centre for obstetric emergencies in the town of Kabezi, south of the capital Bujumbura. The centre provides free specialised medical care during pregnancy and delivery, and treats an average of 250 women a month. Mary Nicizanye, 30, is one of those women. She is sitting in the ward at the MSF centre. It has been four days since she gave birth to a little girl. Beads of sweat run down her neck, but her eyes are bright. Before she gave birth, Mary was brought to a local health centre suffering f...
Alveolar recruitment maneuver in mechanic ventilation pediatric intensive care unit children
Recentes mudanças foram introduzidas na forma de ventilar crianças com doenças que determinam o quadro de insuficiência respiratória aguda hipoxêmica. Há evidências que estratégias ventilatórias menos agressivas, melhoram a sobrevida de pacientes com grave lesão pulmonar. Estudos experimentais evidenciaram relação entre modalidades ventilatórias inapropriadas e retardo na melhora e até mesmo piora da lesão pulmonar aguda. A partir desta concepção, surge uma estratégia ventilatória protetora, combinada à manobra de recrutamento alveolar. Acredita-se, que esta associação na prática clínica, determina importante redução da morbidade e mortalidade, bem como, prevenção das lesões induzidas pela ventilação mecânica. Sua indicação relaciona-se com quadros de les...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Tumoral pulmonary mass secondary to Schistosoma mansoni infection resembling neoplasia: case report
Indivíduos infectados com Schistosoma mansoni na fase crônica da doença podem apresentar comprometimento pulmonar com sintomatologia e alterações radiológicas variáveis. Os pulmões podem ser acometidos pela migração anômala de ovos do sistema porta para o sistema arterial pulmonar (através de anastomoses porto-sistêmicas) e menos comumente por migrações ectópicas de vermes adultos. Há casos com extenso comprometimento parenquimatoso e outros com predomínio de arterites, com hipertensão pulmonar e cor pulmonale. Paciente jovem, residente em área endêmica de esquistossomose, com massa pulmonar sugestiva de neoplasia foi submetida a toracotomia exploradora sem possibilidade de ressecção da massa. Exame histopatológico mostrou vários granulomas esquistossomóticos e hi...
Clinical characteristics and quality of life of smokers at a referral center for smoking cessation
CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that, for smoking cessation programs, subgroups of smokers with specific characteristics (early age at smoking onset, tobacco-related diseases, depressive disorders and use of psychoactive substances) should be identified. (Source: Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia)
Treating Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly: How Low Should Diastolic BP Go?
What is the lowest acceptable diastolic blood pressure (BP) in an elderly patient who is being treated for systolic hypertension? (Source: Consultant Live)
Heal Yourself in 15 Days by eating MORE (not less)
(NaturalNews) Can you really heal yourself by eating more food? It seems counterintuitive, but in this article -- part eleven of our 15-day self-healing series -- I'm going to share with you how eating more food can actually be a powerful tool in accelerating your body's own natural healing potential.But there's a catch, of course: It's not about eating more junk food, processed food or factory-made food. Eating more of that stuff would only promote more disease of course. It's about eating more of some specific foods and superfoods I'm going to share with you in detail right here.The whole point of this "heal yourself by eating MORE" approach is to chill out and get away from the "avoid everything" trap that becomes a psychological obstacle for a lot of people who are trying to improve th...
Efficacy, safety and tolerability of aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, in women with hypertension: a pooled analysis of eight studies
Authors: A H Gradman, M R Weir, M Wright, C A Bush & D L Keefe (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Long-term efficacy of a combination of amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil±hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hypertension stratified by age, race and diabetes status: a substudy of the COACH trial
Long-term efficacy of a combination of amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil±hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hypertension stratified by age, race and diabetes status: a substudy of the COACH trial Journal of Human Hypertension advance online publication, March 4, 2010. doi:10.1038/jhh.2010.16 Authors: S Oparil, S G Chrysant, M Melino, J Lee, S Karki & R Heyrman (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Regular slow-breathing exercise effects on blood pressure and breathing patterns at rest
Authors: D E Anderson, J D McNeely & B G Windham (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Association of resistin and adiponectin with different clinical blood pressure phenotypes
Authors: C Thomopoulos, M Daskalaki, O Papazachou, N Rodolakis, A Bratsas, D P Papadopoulos, M V Papavasileiou, D Perrea & T Makris (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Long-term reproducibility of ambulatory blood pressure is superior to office blood pressure in the very elderly
Authors: P Campbell, N Ghuman, D Wakefield, L Wolfson & W B White (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Hypertension Guidelines: A Major Reappraisal Critically Examines the Available Evidence
(Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
S-Allyl-Mercapto-Captopril: A Novel Compound in the Treatment of Cohen-Rosenthal Diabetic Hypertensive Rats
J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). S-allyl-mercapto-captopril (CPSSA) is a conjugate of captopril with allicin, an active principle in garlic with multiple beneficial actions on metabolic syndrome abnormalities, including weight preservation, observed by the authors in fructose-induced hypertensive hyperinsulinemic rats and in Koletsky rats. The aim of the study was to examine blood pressure (BP) and glucose levels in the Cohen-Rosenthal Diabetic Hypertensive (CRDH) model as well as to follow their weight preservation. CRDH rats (n=14) were fed the sugar-rich copper-free diet essential for the development of diabetes mellitus. Two months later BP and blood glucose levels were measured. CPSSA was diluted in drinking water and administered at a final dose of 53.5 mg/kg/d (n=8). Control rats (n=6)...
Function and Structure of Resistance Vessels in Black and White People
J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). The risk of development of hypertension is greater in black people compared to white people through mechanisms that are poorly understood. Several biological and environmental factors have been proposed. Based on the role of an increased peripheral resistance in the pathogenesis of hypertension, the authors focus in this systematic review on ethnic differences in function and mechanical properties of resistance arteries in normotensive participants. PubMed was systematically searched for papers on ethnic differences in vascular function and structure. A total of 620 papers were retrieved, of which 31 papers were included in the analysis. The available data indicate that compared to normotensive whites, normotensive black people have enhanced vascular reactivit...
Percutaneous revascularization of the renal arteries offers no evidence of clinical benefit in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis—the astral trial
(Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)
DTB: Using NSAIDs in cardiovascular disease
Source: Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin Area: Evidence > Medication Safety In this review in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) on the use of NSAIDs in cardiovascular disease, the authors consider the evidence in the context of other unwanted effects of NSAIDs, and offer practical advice on their use of in this setting. The following topics are addressed:   . COX enzymes . Cardiovascular effects of NSAIDs . Evidence from RCTs and other studies . Effects on blood pressure . Use in hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, patients treated with low dose aspirin . Gastrointestinal and renal effects of NSAID . National prescribing advice (Source: NeLM - Patient Safety)
Current concepts review: gastro-oesophageal varices in liver cirrhosis
Source: N Engl J Med Area: News This review article in the New England Journal of Medicine covers recent evidence on the management of varices and variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis. Topic headings are: . Natural history and epidemiology . Pathophysiology and pathophysiological bases of therapy . Therapies that reduce portal pressure . Local therapies without portal pressure-reducing effects . Risk stratification for patients with portal hypertension . Prevention of varices and a first variceal haemorrhage . Treatment of acute variceal haemorrhage . Prevention of recurrent variceal haemorrhage . Special situations for which there is limited or no evidence . Portal hypertensive gastropathy . Associated portal-ve...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
What makes a good flap go bad?: A critical analysis of the literature of intraoperative factors related to free flap failure
The purpose of this article is to discuss the various factors related to poor outcome in free flap reconstructions of the head and neck (H&N). Free tissue transfer has become the standard reconstruction technique for complex H&N defects. With the evolution of free flap use in H&N surgery, numerous factors have been proposed that adversely affect flap outcome, many with the support of only anecdotal experience. We seek to critically review the literature to assess what evidence exists for the relation of various intraoperative factors to free flap complications.Literature review.A review of the contemporary literature (1995 to present) on free flap reconstruction of the H&N was undertaken. A PubMed search using the terms head and neck, reconstruction, free flap, microvascular, failure, comp...
Football as a treatment for hypertension in untrained 30–55-year-old men: a prospective randomized study
The present study investigated whether football has favorable effects in the treatment of mild-to-moderate arterial hypertension in untrained middle-aged men. Twenty-five untrained males aged 31[ndash]54 year with mild-to-moderate hypertension were randomized to a football training group (FTG, two 1-h sessions per week) and a control group receiving physician-guided traditional recommendations on cardiovascular risk factor modification (doctoral advice group, DAG). After 3 months, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were lowered (P (Source: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports)
Effect of antihypertensive therapy with alpha-methyldopa on uterine artery Doppler in pregnancies with hypertensive disorders.
CONCLUSION: : Antihypertensive therapy using alpha-methyldopa in women presenting with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy has no significant effect on uterine artery resistance to blood flow, suggesting that it does not impair utero-placental circulation in these cases. Copyright (c) 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID: 20201113 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The Ultrasound Review of Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Association of Resistin With Urinary Albumin Excretion in Nondiabetic Patients With Essential Hypertension.
ConclusionsHypertensive subjects with augmented resistin levels exhibit higher albuminuria, independently of established risk factors. Moreover, the association of resistin with ACR suggests a link between resistin and microvascular disease in the early stages of essential hypertension.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.34. PMID: 20203628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension)
Low vs. Higher-Dose Dark Chocolate and Blood Pressure in Cardiovascular High-Risk Patients.
ConclusionsThe findings are consistent with the hypothesis that dark chocolate may be associated with a reduction in blood pressure (BP). However, due to the lack of a control group, confounding may be possible and the results should be interpreted with caution.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.29. PMID: 20203627 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Serum Uric Acid Levels and Renal Damage in Hyperuricemic Hypertensive Patients Treated With Renin-Angiotensin System Blockers.
ConclusionsIn hyperuricemic hypertensives normal serum UA levels are associated with normal RV/RRI, integrated marker of tubulointerstitial damage and renal arteriolopathy, independently of RAS activation.American Journal of Hypertension 2010; doi:10.1038/ajh.2010.33. PMID: 20203626 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Hypertension)
Simvastatin Decreases Endothelial Progenitor Cell Apoptosis in the Kidney of Hypertensive Hypercholesterolemic Pigs.
CONCLUSIONS: EPC are recruited but undergo apoptosis in the HTC kidney, likely because of a hostile microenvironment. Simvastatin rescues renal repair mechanisms in HTC and counteracts renal damage, which may account for its protective effects on the kidney during exposure to cardiovascular risk factors. PMID: 20203299 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology)
Exploring the Potential of No-Independent Stimulators and Activators of Soluble Guanylate Cyclase for the Medical Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction.
Authors: Gur S, Kadowitz PJ, Hellstrom WJ Nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is the receptor that catalyzes the formation of the intracellular messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Binding of the physiological activator, NO, to the reduced heme moiety of sGC increases the conversion of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) to cyclic GMP (cGMP) and engages crucial effector systems such as protein kinases, phosphodiesterases, and ion channels. The development of compounds that activate sGC independent of NO release has therapeutic implications. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential use of heme-dependent sGC stimulators (e.g. YC-1, BAY 41-2272, BAY 41-8543, BAY 63-2521, CFM-1571 and A-350619) and heme-independent sGC activators (e.g. BAY 58-2667, HMR-176...
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging and Cognition in the Leukoariosis and Disability in the Elderly Study.
CONCLUSIONS: Ultrastructural abnormalities of NABT increase with WMH severity and have a strong and independent effect on cognitive functions, whereas diffusion-weighted imaging metrics within WMH have no direct impact. This should be considered when defining outcome measures for trials that attempt to ameliorate the consequences of WMH progression. PMID: 20203319 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Stroke)
Serum Potassium and Outcomes in CKD: Insights from the RRI-CKD Cohort Study.
CONCLUSIONS: Although clinical practice usually emphasizes greater attention to elevated S(K) in the setting of CKD, our results suggest that patients who have CKD and low or even low-normal S(K) are at higher risk for dying than those with mild to moderate hyperkalemia. PMID: 20203167 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Long human CHGA flanking chromosome 14 sequence required for optimal BAC transgenic "rescue" of disease phenotypes in the mouse Chga knockout
Chromogranin A (CHGA) plays a catalytic role in formation of catecholamine storage vesicles and also serves as precursor to the peptide fragment catestatin, a catecholamine secretory inhibitor whose expression is diminished in the hypertensive individuals. We previously reported the hypertensive, hyperadrenergic phenotype of Chga–/– knockout (KO) mice and rescue by the human ortholog. In the present study, we compare two humanized CHGA mouse models. Into the Chga null background, by bacterial artificial chromosome transgenesis human CHGA transgene has been introduced. Both lines have the complete ~12 kbp CHGA gene integrated stably in the genome but have substantial differences in CHGA expression, as well as consequent sympathochromaffin biochemistry and physiology. A mouse mod...
Dynamic convergence and divergence of renal genomic and biological pathways in protection from Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension
Chromosome 13 consomic and congenic rat strains were analyzed to investigate the pattern of genomic pathway utilization involved in protection against salt-sensitive hypertension and renal injury. Introgression of the entire Brown-Norway chromosome 13 (consomic SS-13BN) or nonoverlapping segments of this chromosome (congenic strains, 16 Mbp in D13Rat151–D13Rat197 or 14 Mbp in D13Rat111–D13Got22) into the genome of the Dahl salt-sensitive rat attenuated salt-induced hypertension and proteinuria. mRNA abundance profiles in the renal cortex and the renal medulla from rats receiving 0.4% or 8% NaCl diets revealed two important features of pathway recruitment in these rat strains. First, the two congenic strains shared alterations in several pathways compared with Dahl salt-sensitiv...
FDA rebuffs Forest?s hypertension drug for treatment of chronic HF
The FDA has snubbed Forest Laboratories' Supplemental New Drug Application submission that would have indicated nebivolol (Bystolic), currently approved for the treatment of hypertension, as an additional treatment for chronic heart failure (HF). (Source: Cardiovascular Business News)
FDA rebuffs Forest?s hypertension drug for chronic HF
The FDA has snubbed Forest Laboratories' Supplemental New Drug Application submission that would have indicated nebivolol (Bystolic), currently approved for the treatment of hypertension, as an additional treatment for chronic heart failure (HF). (Source: Cardiovascular Business News)
Science Shows You Can Die of Boredom, Literally
Monthly magazines from Reader's Digest to Cosmopolitan are inundated with tips on how to sleep better, find happiness, and weave seriously sexy hair. Taking nothing away from being happy and blowing your romantic partner's mind on valentine's day, there are few things as valuable as staying alive.Sometimes we fail to take life and death seriously. Think back to those painful days of calculus class in high school. Like the sounds of a banshee ripping out its entrails, you and your classmates probably screamed the same screams heard year after year - "I'm so bored, I could die!" And yet, did your calculus teacher care? Did they offer a hug or show the slightest empathy? Probably not. And what about the desperate pleas of innocent children on long, monotonous car rides. All children want is a...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Mad = Angry + Crazy + Dumb (Part 2 of 2)
The Physical--and Cognitive--Toll of Anger  Another thing that makes anger--or perhaps I should say, unregulated, indiscriminate, or over-the-top anger--so dumb is that it uses up so much energy. Literally, it takes so much out of you. Anger is the one emotion that mobilizes every organ and muscle group in your body. After all, it's typically a response to something that, subjectively, is experienced as an imminent threat. So instinctually your body makes haste to prepare you to attack the (perceived) enemy--though in contemporary society not so much with your fists as with your vocal cords. By the same token, however, the longer your organism continues in this heightened state of arousal, the more you'll end up feeling drained, exhausted, and perhaps even depressed. If you understand...
Daily aspirin 'not for the healthy'
Conclusion This trial has tried to answer an important question regarding who should be given aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke. It used a systematic method to screen people and followed a reasonably large group of patients for up to 10 years in some cases. The finding of ?no statistical significance? can be an important result, and in this case suggests that any benefits from taking aspirin for this group of people are likely to be small. The risk of bleeding was also small and not technically of statistical significant. There is a non-significant trend in the results towards aspirin being harmful. As there is also a suggestion that the study may have been underpowered (planned for too few people), this implies that a larger study may have detected a significant increase ...
Collaboration offers hope to glaucoma patients
Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch + Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension (Source: Pharmacy Europe)
Licensing agreement for NCX 116
Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch + Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension (Source: Pharmacy Europe)
NicOx and Bausch and Lomb Announce Worldwide Licensing Agreement for NCX 116
Worldwide rights for nitric oxide-donating compound NCX 116 granted to Bausch & Lomb for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension ROCHESTER, N.Y. and SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, France, March 3 (HSMN NewsFeed) -- NicOx S.A. (NYSE Euronext Paris: COX) a... Biopharmaceuticals, Ophthalmology, LicensingBausch & Lomb, NicOx, NCX 116, Glaucoma (Source: HSMN NewsFeed)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
U.S. Children Snacking More; Junk Calories Leading The Rise
Children in the United States are snacking more than ever before on salty chips, candy and other junk food, according to a new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study. The increase in snacking, which now accounts for up to 27 percent of daily caloric intake, has occurred along with a rise in childhood obesity, a health problem that has put millions of U.S. children at risk of hypertension, heart disease and diabetes... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
The diabetic cardiomyopathy
Abstract  Diabetic cardiomyopathy has been defined as ?a distinct entity characterized by the presence of abnormal myocardial performance or structure in the absence of epicardial coronary artery disease, hypertension, and significant valvular disease?. The diagnosis stems from the detection of myocardial abnormalities and the exclusion of other contributory causes of cardiomyopathy. It rests on non-invasive imaging techniques which can demonstrate myocardial dysfunction across the spectra of clinical presentation. The presence of diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing heart failure, and the 75% of patients with unexplained idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were found to be diabetic. Diabetic patients with microvascular complications show the stronges...
Management of Intraventricular Hemorrhage
Abstract  Brain hemorrhage is the most fatal form of stroke and has the highest morbidity of any stroke subtype. Intraventricular extension of hemorrhage (IVH) is a particularly poor prognostic sign, with expected mortality between 50% and 80%. IVH is a significant and independent contributor to morbidity and mortality, yet therapy directed at ameliorating intraventricular clot has been limited. Conventional therapy centers on managing hypertension and intracranial pressure while correcting coagulopathy and avoiding complications such as rebleeding and hydrocephalus. Surgical therapy alone has not changed the natural history of the disease significantly. However, fibrinolysis in combination with extraventricular drainage shows promise as a technique to reduce intraventricul...
Sodium Sensitivity of Blood Pressure in Chinese Populations
This study indicated that approximately 39% of Chinese adults were sodium-sensitive. Sodium sensitivity was more common in women and in persons who were older and had higher usual blood pressure. Sodium sensitivity was also more common in individuals with higher responses to a cold pressor test and in individuals with the metabolic syndrome. Genetic factors may play an important role in determining sodium sensitivity in the Chinese population. A better understanding of the genetic and environmental determinants of sodium sensitivity has important public health and clinical implications. Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s11906-009-0088-4Authors Jing Chen, Tulane University School of Medicine Department of Medicine 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL45 New Orleans LA 70112 USA Jo...
Study shows pine bark reduces blood pressure, counteracts kidney damage caused by hypertension
(MWW Group) A new study shows pine bark naturally reduces blood pressure and counteracts kidney damage caused by hypertension. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Beta blocker therapy underused in heart failure patients
(Saint Louis University) New Saint Louis University research has found that beta blockers, a class of drugs used to prevent the progression of heart failure and manage arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) and hypertension (high blood pressure), are underused in heart failure patients who receive implantable cardiac devices. Failure to take beta blockers prior to implanting a cardiac device can affect the patient's overall outcome and survival rate. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)
Pulmonary arterial hypertension: today's choice of treatment
The diagnosis and management of pulmonary arterial hypertension has been transformed by the introduction of disease-targeted therapies. Here, the authors look at the properties of these new drugs and the role of the GP in management. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Interface Ltd (Source: Prescriber)
Coffee Is Generally Heart-Friendly
But it may be linked to a slight rise in high blood pressure, researchers say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Caffeine, Heart Diseases, Nutrition (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)
Antioxidant properties of water extracts from parching green tea
Cold and hot water extracts (2, 6 and 10%) were prepared from parching green tea and its antioxidant properties studied and potential antioxidant components determined. Yields of hot water extracts (17.53[ndash]28.63%) were significantly higher than those of cold water extracts (13.34[ndash]16.14%). The half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values in antioxidant activity and reducing power were 2.17[ndash]2.75 and 0.22[ndash]0.30 mg/mL, respectively. Scavenging abilities on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals were comparable. EC50 values in scavenging ability on hydroxyl radicals and chelating ability on ferrous ions were 3.31[ndash]4.54 and 1.63[ndash]3.09 mg/mL, respectively. Contents of total phenols were 220.52[ndash]339.83 mg/g whereas those of total catechins in cold and hot...
AHA: Caffeine Has Mixed Effects on Heart Health
Caffeine consumption is associated with several positive or benign effects on cardiovascular health, but low-to-moderate consumption may be associated with a slightly elevated risk of hypertension, according to a series of studies presented this week at the American Heart Association's joint conference of the Council on Epidemiology and Prevention and the Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism, held from March 2 to 5 in San Francisco. (Source: Modern Medicine)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Prevalence and characteristics of sleep apnoea in patients with stable heart failure: Results from a heart failure clinic
Background: Heart failure (HF) and sleep apnoea (SA) association has been recognized but whether it results from confounding factors (hypertension, ischaemia, obesity) remains unclear.We aimed to determine the prevalence of SA in HF and to identify potential risk factors for SA in HF population. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 103 patients with stable HF on optimized therapy. In-laboratory polysomnography was performed. Type and severity of SA were defined according international criteria. Demographic, anthropometric and clinical characteristics were collected. Continuous data are expressed as median and interquartile range. Results: SA was found in 72.8%, moderate to severe in a significant proportion (apnoea-hypopnoea index>/=15- 44.7% of all patients) and predominantly obstructive (...
LINGO-1 negatively regulates TrkB phosphorylation after ocular hypertension
The antagonism of LINGO-1, a CNS-specific negative regulator of neuronal survival, was shown to promote short-term survival of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) in an ocular hypertension model. LINGO-1 antagonists, combined with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), can increase the length of neuron survival through an unclear molecular mechanism. To determine the relationship between LINGO-1 and BDNF/TrkB receptor in neuronal protection, we show here that LINGO-1 forms a receptor complex with TrkB and negatively regulates its activation in the retina after ocular hypertension injury. LINGO-1 antagonist antibody 1A7 or soluble LINGO-1 (LINGO-1-Fc) treatment upregulates phospho-TrkB phosphorylation and leads to RGC survival after high intraocular pressure injury. This neuronal protective effe...
The effect of home-delivered Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) meals on the diets of older adults with cardiovascular disease.
CONCLUSION: Delivery of 7 DASH meals per week was found to increase compliance with dietary recommendations among noncompliant older adults with cardiovascular disease. PMID: 20200258 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition)
Acute kidney injury: a springboard for progression in chronic kidney disease.
Authors: Venkatachalam MA, Griffin KA, Lan R, Geng H, Saikumar P, Bidani AK Recently published epidemiological and outcome analysis studies have brought to our attention the important role played by acute kidney injury (AKI) in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end stage renal disease (ESRD). AKI accelerates progression in patients with CKD; conversely, CKD predisposes patients to AKI. This research gives credence to older well thought out wisdom that recovery from AKI is often not complete and is marked by residual structural damage. It also mirrors older experimental observations showing that unilateral nephrectomy, a surrogate for loss of nephrons by disease, compromises structural recovery and worsens tubulointerstitial fibrosis after ischemic AKI. Moreover, review...
Pentosan Polysulfate Treatment Preserves Renal Autoregulation in Ang II-Infused Hypertensive Rats via Normalization of P2X1 Receptor Activation.
In conclusion, PPS normalizes autoregulation without altering Ang II-induced hypertension, suggesting that inflammatory processes reduce P2X1 receptor reactivity and thereby impairs autoregulatory behavior in Ang II hypertensive rats. Key Words: P2X1 purinoceptor, afferent arteriole, inflammation, pentosan polysulphate. Key words: P2X1 purinoceptor, afferent arteriole, inflammation, pentosan polysulphate. PMID: 20200092 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Am J Physiol Renal P...)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Maternal Protein Restriction Leads to Hyper-Responsiveness to Stress and Salt-Sensitive Hypertension in Male Offspring.
Authors: Augustyniak RA, Singh K, Zeldes D, Singh M, Rossi NF Low birth weight humans often exhibit hypertension during adulthood. Studying the offspring of rat dams fed a maternal low protein diet is one model frequently used to study the mechanisms of low birth weight related hypertension. It remains unclear if this model replicates key clinical findings of hypertension, and increased blood pressure responsiveness to stress or high salt diet. We measured blood pressure via radiotelemetry in 13 week old male offspring of maternal normal and low protein dams. Neither group exhibited hypertension at baseline; however, 1h of restraint was accompanied by a significantly greater blood pressure response in low protein compared to normal protein offspring. To enhance the effect of high salt ...
The diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Authors: Tarquini R, Lazzeri C, Pala L, Rotella CM, Gensini GF Diabetic cardiomyopathy has been defined as "a distinct entity characterized by the presence of abnormal myocardial performance or structure in the absence of epicardial coronary artery disease, hypertension, and significant valvular disease". The diagnosis stems from the detection of myocardial abnormalities and the exclusion of other contributory causes of cardiomyopathy. It rests on non-invasive imaging techniques which can demonstrate myocardial dysfunction across the spectra of clinical presentation. The presence of diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing heart failure, and the 75% of patients with unexplained idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were found to be diabetic. Diabetic patients with microv...
Basilar artery occlusive disease in stroke survivors in a multiethnic population
Abstract: Objectives: To describe clinical, radiological findings, and outcome in a multiethnic population of stroke survivors with basilar artery occlusive disease (BAOC).Methods: Forty patients with infarcts in the basilar artery (BA) territory, alive 30 days after the ictus, participated in the study. BA stenosis (>50%) or occlusion was shown by magnetic resonance or digital subtraction angiography in all patients. Demographical, clinical and radiological characteristics were described. Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) scores at 30 days and 6 months after the ischemic event were evaluated. Association between demographical, clinical, radiological features and outcome were analyzed with Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. MRS scores at 30 days and 6 months were compared with the Wilcoxon tes...
Hypertension is a major risk factor for future atherosclerotic changes in the Japanese population
Conclusion The risk of future cardiovascular changes is significantly greater with higher SBP in the Japanese population. (Source: Annals of Clinical Biochemistry)
The von Hippel-Lindau Chuvash mutation promotes pulmonary hypertension and fibrosis in mice
Mutation of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor protein at codon 200 (R200W) is associated with a disease known as Chuvash polycythemia. In addition to polycythemia, Chuvash patients have pulmonary hypertension and increased respiratory rates, although the pathophysiological basis of these symptoms is unclear. Here we sought to address this issue by studying mice homozygous for the R200W Vhl mutation (VhlR/R mice) as a model for Chuvash disease. These mice developed pulmonary hypertension independently of polycythemia and enhanced normoxic respiration similar to Chuvash patients, further validating VhlR/R mice as a model for Chuvash disease. Lungs from VhlR/R mice exhibited pulmonary vascular remodeling, hemorrhage, edema, and macrophage infiltration, and lungs from older ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Microsoft unveils CDM project
Coverage from HIMSS10 Microsoft and the Cleveland Clinic yesterday announced the results of a chronic disease management project for patients with hypertension, diabetes and heart failure. (Source: E-Health-Insider)
Microsoft unveils CDM project
Coverage from HIMSS10 Microsoft and the Cleveland Clinic yesterday announced the results of a chronic disease management project for patients with hypertension, diabetes and heart failure. (Source: E-Health Europe News)
BHS reaffirms its guidance
(Source: BMJ Online First)
Correlates of self-care behaviors for managing hypertension among Korean Americans: A questionnaire survey
Conclusions: Hypertension control self-efficacy emerged as the most significant contributing factor to hypertension self-care. Future intervention programs should focus on improving hypertension control self-efficacy as a modifiable personal factor. (Source: International Journal of Nursing Studies)
Adiponectin acts as a positive indicator of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Conclusions These data document that adiponectin is an indicator of LV diastolic dysfunction in patients with HCM. (Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
The antiplatelet effect of aspirin is reduced by proton pump inhibitors in patients with coronary artery disease
Conclusions Patients with CAD treated with PPIs had a reduced platelet response to aspirin, as shown by increased residual platelet aggregation and platelet activation, compared with patients with CAD not taking PPIs. Concomitant use of aspirin and PPIs might reduce the cardiovascular protection by aspirin. (Source: Heart)
What can adiponectin say about left ventricular function?
(Source: Heart)
The angiotensin II type 2 receptor in the brain
Recent clinical studies indicate that blockade of the renin-angiotensin system is important to prevent stroke, and accumulating results of basic research also indicate the possible involvement of the central renin-angiotensin system in ischaemic brain damage and cognition. When the angiotensin II type 1 receptor is blocked by an angiotensin type 1 receptor blocker, unbound angiotensin II acts preferentially on the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor. These results suggest the pathophysiological importance of the AT2 receptor in the clinical use of angiotensin type 1 receptor blockers, which are widely used in patients with hypertension with the expectation of a decrease in the onset of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. We review here the possible roles of AT2 receptor activation...
The angiotensin II type 2 receptor in cardiovascular disease
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is considered the major final mediator of the renin-angiotensin system. The actions of Ang II have been implicated in many cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, restenosis, and heart failure. Ang II can act through two different receptors: Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor and Ang II type 2 (AT2) receptor. The AT1 receptor is ubiquitously expressed in the cardiovascular system and mediates most of the physiological and pathophysiological actions of Ang II. The AT2 receptor is highly expressed in the developing foetus, but its expression is very low in the cardiovascular system of the normal adult. Expression of the AT2 receptor can be modulated by pathological states associated with tissue remodelling or inflammation su...
The angiotensin II type 2 receptor and the kidney
Recent knowledge demonstrated that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) functions as a local renal paracrine system. All components of the RAS are present within the kidney and include angiotensinogen, renin, angiotensin I, angiotensin-converting enzymes, angiotensin II, the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor and the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor. Angiotensin II is the major effector hormone of the RAS and contributes to a variety of renal and cardiovascular physiologic and pathologic mechanisms through stimulation of AT1 and AT2 receptors. Angiotensin receptor blockers were developed based on the advanced knowledge of the AT1 receptor contribution to development of a variety of kidney, vascular and cardiac diseases including but not limited to hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, he...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Best Strategies for Hypertension Management in Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity
Abstract  Insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease cluster together, and the incidence of all of these disease states is increasing throughout the world. Current strategies for hypertension management?including the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium antagonists, and thiazide diuretics?are effective for most patients. However, as the incidence of hypertension increases in this target population, so does that of resistant hypertension. As such, significant research and effort must be put forth to bring blood pressure to goal and delay or prevent target organ damage. Such efforts should frequently include a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker such as a...
Primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in Egyptian children: a 10-year single-centre experience
In conclusion, in this study we had a low percentage of FSGS, and fewer patients presenting with gross haematuria and hypertension compared with previous reports. In addition, the short-term overall renal survival seems to be better in our cohort. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Brief ReportDOI 10.1007/s00467-010-1448-7Authors Ahmed M. El-Refaey, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAshraf Bakr, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAyman Hammad, Mansoura University Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Mansoura University Children?s Hospital Algomhoria Street Mansoura EgyptAtef Elmougy, Mansoura University Pediatric Nep...
Comparison of Endothelial Biomarkers According to Reversibility of Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Congenital Heart Disease
This study aimed to document endothelial markers further according to the irreversibility of PAH secondary to CHD. The study investigated soluble markers of endothelial damage or activation (thrombomodulin, soluble endothelial protein C receptor, and soluble E-selectin), inflammation (interleukin-6), and angiogenic cytokine levels [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF)] in 26 patients with CHD, 16 with reversible PAH (median age, 2 years) and 10 with irreversible PAH (median age, 9 years). Endothelial activation/apoptosis was evaluated by measuring EMP levels. Plasma procoagulant activity also was measured. The results show that the levels of soluble markers indicating endothelial activation were not predictors of PAH irreversibility....
U.S. Has Racial Gap in Stroke Rate
Title: U.S. Has Racial Gap in Stroke RateCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/2/2010 10:19:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 3/2/2010 10:19:48 AM (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Persistence on prostaglandin ocular hypotensive therapy: an assessment using medication possession and days covered on therapy
Conclusions: Persistence with ocular prostaglandin therapy remains a problem. Latanoprost users had greater odds of achieving medication possession and had more days covered during the first therapy year. (Source: BioMed Central)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
The influence of geographic life environments on cardiometabolic risk factors: a systematic review, a methodological assessment and a research agenda
Recent environmental changes play a role in the dramatic increase in the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) such as obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemias and the metabolic syndrome in industrialized countries. Therefore, identifying environmental characteristics that are associated with risk factors is critical to develop more effective public health interventions. We conducted a systematic review of the literature investigating relationships between characteristics of geographic life environments and CMRFs (131 articles). Most studies were published after 2006, relied on cross-sectional designs, and examined whether sociodemographic and physical environmental characteristics, and more recently service environment characteristics, were associated with obesit...
Case Study: 46-Year-Old Woman is Referred For Evaluation of her Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, and Borderline Diabetes
A 46-year-old woman is referred by her primary care physician for the evaluation of moderate hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, and borderline diabetes. Of particular relevance is a history of fasting triglycerides (TGs) ranging from 250-400 mg/dl over the last 6 months, with the high-density lipop. . . (Source: Cardiosource)
Systematic reviews: Vitamin D effects on cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes
Source: Ann Intern Med Area: News Two systematic reviews published in Annals of Internal Medicine examine the evidence for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits from vitamin D.   There is increasing evidence that vitamin D is involved in a wide range of physiological processes apart from its well-established effects on bone health. Amongst these are effects that may modify cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and there is interest in whether supplementation in people with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency might reduce cardiovascular mortality or morbidity.   The first review examines whether there is evidence for effects on cardio-metabolic outcomes (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease). It was carried out as part of a wider evidence report for a pa...
Systematic review: vitamin d and cardiometabolic outcomes.
Conclusion: The association between vitamin D status and cardiometabolic outcomes is uncertain. Trials showed no clinically significant effect of vitamin D supplementation at the dosages given. Primary Funding Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and Public Health Agency of Canada. PMID: 20194237 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Internal Medicine)
Dietary Intake and Serum and Hair Concentrations of Minerals and their Relationship with Serum Lipids and Glucose Levels in Hypertensive and Obese Patients with Insulin Resistance.
Authors: Suliburska J, Bogdański P, Pupek-Musialik D, Krejpcio Z Inadequate minerals intake, as well as disruption of some metabolic processes in which microelements are cofactors, are suggested to lead to the development of hypertension. The role of minerals in the pathogenesis of hypertension still remains to be explained. In the present study, we sought to determine associations between serum and hair mineral concentrations and serum lipids and glucose levels. Forty obese hypertensive subjects with insulin resistance and 40 healthy volunteers were recruited in the study. Blood pressure, BMI, and insulin resistance were recorded in all subjects. Levels of lipids, glucose, sodium and potassium, iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, and calcium were assessed in serum. Iron, copper, zinc...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Case Study: A 46-Year-Old Woman is Referred For Evaluation of her Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, and Borderline Diabetes
A 46-year-old woman is referred by her primary care physician for the evaluation of moderate hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, and borderline diabetes. Of particular relevance is a history of fasting triglycerides (TGs) ranging from 250-400 mg/dl over the last 6 months, with the high-density lipop. . . (Source: Cardiosource)
The metabolic syndrome: Prevalence, main characteristics and association with socio-economic status in adults living in Great Tunis.
CONCLUSION: The prevalence of the MetS is markedly high within the population of Great Tunis and especially in women. As these findings predict future increases in cardiovascular disease in these populations, substantial efforts need to be made to fight against obesity and sedentary lifestyles to ameliorate the expected poor health outcomes. PMID: 20202880 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Diabetes and Metabolism)
Vital Signs: Awareness: Report Calls for Spotlight on Hypertension
Though high blood pressure is prevalent in the United States, many Americans don?t know they have it and doctors are lax about treating it, a new report found. (Source: NYT > Health)
Epinephrine/midodrine/prednisone: Severe transient hypertension: case report
(Source: Reactions)
006 Normobaric hypoxia impairs cardiac energetics in normal human volunteers
(Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
009 Endothelial-specific overexpression of Nox2 enhances angiotensin II-induced cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis
(Source: Heart)
018 Guanidinoacetate N-methyltransferase knockout mice exhibit normal left ventricular remodelling, haemodynamics and survival after myocardial infarction despite lack of phosphocreatine
(Source: Heart)
024 Endothelial Nox4 NADPH oxidase enhances vasodilatation via hydrogen peroxide-induced hyperpolarisation and reduces blood pressure
(Source: Heart)
025 Is Depressed myocyte contractility an early event in the natural history of heart failure?
(Source: Heart)
026 Plasma levels of the novel vasodilatory gas hydrogen sulphide are associated with adiposity
(Source: Heart)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Assessing outcomes after paediatric cardiac surgery: which test is best?
(Source: Heart)
Deformation imaging describes right ventricular function better than longitudinal displacement of the tricuspid ring
Conclusions RV function of CTEPH patients improves steadily after PEA. Unlike S, SR and RVFAC, this is not reflected by TAPSE because of postoperative changes in overall heart motion. Motion independent deformation parameters (S, SR) appear superior in the accurate description of regional RV function (Source: Heart)
Elevated left atrial pressure estimated by Doppler echocardiography is a key determinant of mitral valve tenting in functional mitral regurgitation
Conclusions In both patients with preserved and reduced LVEF, mitral tenting that leads to FMR is mainly determined by both mitral tethering forces—that is, displacement of papillary muscles and by pushing forces—that is, increased left atrial pressure. This study underscores that LV preload is a key determinant of FMR. (Source: Heart)
Biomarkers in heart failure
(Source: Heart)
Resolution of ST-segment depression: a new prognostic marker in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Conclusion When ST depression is present in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI, STD-R<50% provides independent prognostic value that is incremental to STE-R. (Source: European Heart Journal)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
New insights into the relationship of left ventricular geometry and left ventricular mass with cardiac function: a population study of hypertensive subjects
Conclusion In hypertensives, hypertrophic remodelling is independently associated with impaired LV function and increased LV filling pressure. Increasing degrees of non-hypertrophic concentric remodelling are associated with attenuated diastolic function, but augmented systolic function, possibly representing an adaptive response to pressure overload physiology. (Source: European Heart Journal)
Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data to identify the major determinants of carotid intima-media thickness in a European population: the IMPROVE study
Conclusion Latitude is an important determinant of C-IMT, which is not explained by between-country differences in established VRFs. Other unknown contributory mechanisms such as heritable, nutritional, or environmental factors may be important in the genesis of this geographical gradient. (Source: European Heart Journal)
Persistent Ocular Hypertension Following Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Ranibizumab Injections
Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Feb 2010, Vol. 26, No. 1: 105-110. (Source: Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics)
Management and Controversies in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension
Pediatric Asthma, Allergy & Immunology , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Pediatric Asthma, Allergy)
Management and Controversies in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension
Pediatric Asthma, Allergy & Immunology , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Pediatric Asthma, Allergy)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Message:</i></b> Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm <b><a href="http://www.medworm.com/rss/search.php?qu=%2Bswine+%2B%28influenza+flu%29&t=Swine+Flu&f=infectiousdiseases&r=Any&o=d" target ="_self">Swine Flu RSS news feed</a></b> - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.</p></div>
Cocaine mules: what to do with body packers
2.5 out of 5 stars Clinical management of cocaine body packers: the Hillingdon experience. Beckley I et al. Can J Surg 2009;52:417-421. Full text This retrospective observational study looked at 5-years of experience with patients suspected of being cocaine body packers referred to Hilldingdon Hospital in Uxbridge, England. Since that hospital is located just outside of Heathrow Airport in London, the study population is considerable: 590 suspected body packers referred to hospital, 351 with packets visible on abdominal x-ray, 61 admitted to Hillingdon Hospital. Fifty-six of these patients were managed conservatively, with laxatives or whole-bowel irrigation (WBI). Six patients developed signs and symptoms of cocaine intoxication (hypertension, tachycardia, agitation, seizure)...
The Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, a longitudinal cohort study on health disparities in Puerto Rican adults: challenges and opportunities.
Conclusions: The enrollment of minority groups presents unique challenges. This report highlights approaches to working with difficult to reach populations, and describe some of the health issues and needs of Puerto Rican older adults. These results may inform future studies and interventions aiming to improve the health of this and similar communities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)
Atherosclerotic disease location and disparities in the control and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes
Conclusions In subjects with Type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic disease, control of modifiable CVD risk factors but not intensity of medication treatment is modified by atherosclerotic disease territory. Intensity of medication treatment is different between risk factors. (Source: Diabetic Medicine)
2010 American Thoracic Society Research Program
The American Thoracic Society and our partners in research are pleased to announce the 2010 ATS Research Program portfolio of grants. The ATS is grateful to its partners and members for the success of the new research program.Potential applicants should submit a letter of intent using the LOI application that is available through the proposalCENTRAL website at https://proposalcentral.altum.com. The letters of intent will be used to narrow the number of applicants for each grant category, in order to avoid having a large number of applicants competing for a limited number of grants. Letters of intent should be submitted via the proposalCENTRAL website by 9:00 am Eastern Time on Monday March 15, 2010. Late submissions will not be accepted. 2010 ATS Research Program Portfolio (funding to beg...

excellent for you as this would be one of your best weapons against hypertension.

In order to cut off the salt and hypertension connection you need to first of all understand and identify from where you get your salt. The primary source of your salt is the cooked food you have as your meals. Ensure that you never add salt to the already cooked food. Another important source is the processed food that abounds all around you. It does not matter whether you control the salt that you put in your cooked food if you binge on processed foods.

Many people complain that it is difficult to exile salt from their table and hence continue promoting the salt and hypertension equation. It is true that initially it would be difficult to adjust to a lower level of salt as the food would feel tasteless. However, if you are consistent with it you would find that your taste adjusts in matter of weeks and you would end up enjoying food cooked with less salt.

Battling The Salt Addiction And Hypertension Connection

Ban the table salt from the table, as you should do without tomato sauce, ketchup and soy sauce. Never add salt to the already cooked food.

Note that there is a high concentration of salt in stock cubes, soup packets, sausages, dried fish, processed cheese, etc. Avoid all these. Switch to fresh vegetable and fruits diet and have meat, particularly red meat occasionally or not all.

Hypertension & High Blood Pressure Articles..

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Hypertension Symptoms: How To Recognize Hypertension
By Nurse Nancy
Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure, and it affects many people in this country of all races and ages. Hypertension is a dangerous condition to leave unchecked, Read more...