hypertension and high blood pressure

	Hypertension And High Blood Pressure Understanding Hypertension And High Blood Pressure Hypertension And Massage What Causes Hypertension
	Hypertension And High Blood Pressure Cardiovascular Disease And Hypertension Hypertension Medications Salt And Hypertension Water Drinking And Hypertension Hypertension And Neck Pain
	(hy-per-TEN-shun): high blood pressure.

	Feasibility of Partnering with Emergency Medical Services to Identify People at Risk for Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure (Source: CDC Preventing Chronic Disease)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and toxicological evaluation of whole plant extracts of the medicinal plant Phyllanthus niruri (Phyllanthaceae). We examined the geno-, cyto- and overall toxicity of P. niruri whole plant ethanolic extract. The extract was administered as a single dose of 30 or 300 mg/kg to laboratory rats by gavage, accompanied by negative (0.9% saline) and positive (10 mg/mL N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea) controls that were injected intramuscularly 48 h after extract administration. The ratio of polychromatic (PCE)/normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE) from femur bone marrow was scored for genotoxicity. Cytotoxicity was determined using descending concentrations (0.2-0.0125 g/mL) of the extract incubated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Lactate dehydrogenase release from damaged cells was determined and the CC(50) calculated. Subchronic administration of the extract at 30 or 300 mg/kg was done for 90 days to determine ... CysLT1 receptor inhibition in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon: capillaroscopic evidence of the role of leukotriene CONCLUSION: The use of montelukast modified the capillary abnormalities observed on nailfold capillaroscopy of patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (Source: Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia) Fibromuscular dysplasia: a differential diagnosis of vasculitis A displasia fibromuscular (DFM) envolve artérias de pequeno e médio calibre e é uma causa bem conhecida de hipertensão em mulheres jovens caucasianas, quando envolve as artérias renais. A etiologia da DFM permanece desconhecida, a despeito de inúmeras teorias. Há suspeita de um componente genético, já que a doença atinge primariamente caucasianos. Também é descrita associação entre DFM e antígeno de histocompatibilidade HlA-DRw6. Os principais sítios acometidos são as artérias renais, cerebrais, carótidas, viscerais, ilíacas, subclávias, braquiais e poplíteas. As manifestações clínicas correlacionam-se com o sítio acometido, e a hipertensão arterial sistêmica é um sintoma frequente pelo acometimento das artérias renais em 60%-75% dos casos. O diagnóstico da D... Current and relevant concepts in psoriatic arthritis A artrite psoriásica (APs) é uma doença articular sistêmica e polimórfica de apresentação e curso clínico variáveis, associada a comorbidades importantes como diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial e dislipidemia. Para o diagnóstico precoce da doença é necessário alto grau de suspeita clínica, sobretudo quando as manifestações cutâneas são sutis e pouco definidas. Doença erosiva progressiva pode ocorrer em até metade dos pacientes, associada a alterações anatômicas e funcionais em cerca de 20%, de modo que o prognóstico da APs permanece obscuro, especialmente se diagnóstico e tratamento forem tardios. Fundamentados em ampla revisão da literatura (PubMed e Lilacs) e experiência dos nossos serviços, novos conceitos de imunogenética, fisiopatologia, aspectos cl?... Potatoes Lower Blood Pressure In Those With Obesity And Hypertension Without Increasing Weight The first study to check the effects of eating potatoes on blood pressure in humans has concluded that two small helpings of purple potatoes (Purple Majesty) a day decreases blood pressure by about 4 percent without causing weight gain. In a report in the ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the researchers say that decrease, although seemingly small, is sufficient to potentially reduce the risk of several forms of heart disease. Joe Vinson and colleagues point out that people in the U.S. eat more potatoes than any other vegetable... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Series of 8 cases of Irukandji syndrome? or bait-and-switch 1.5 out of 5 stars Irukandji Sydrome [sic] in the Torres Strait: A Series of 8 Cases. McIver LJ et al. Wilderness Environ Med 2011;22:338-342. Abstract The problems with this paper merely begin with the dropped “n” in the second word of the title. Then we get to the first sentence of the abstract, where despite the title’s promise of a case series of Irukandji syndrome (or sydrome, or whatever) we find a classic medical literature bait-and-switch: Objective–To review the presentations of a series of patients with suspected Irukandji syndrome in the Torres Strait, where the syndrome has hitherto been unknown or undocumented, in order to identify at-risk groups and improve the management of this condition in the region. So we’re dealing not with cases of Irukan... Blood pressure and associated factors in a North African adolescent population. A national cross-sectional study in Tunisia Conclusion: Within the limits of BP measurement on one visit only, these results suggest that Tunisian adolescents of both genders are likely not spared from early elevated BP. Though further assessment is likely needed, the strong association with overweight/obesity observed suggests that interventions aimed at changing lifestyles to reduce this main risk factor may also be appropriate for the prevention of elevated BP. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) Thymic stromal lymphopoietin: an immune cytokine gene associated with the metabolic syndrome and blood pressure in severe obesity A previous expression profiling of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) revealed that the thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) gene was less expressed in severely obese men with (n=7) vs. without (n=7) the metabolic syndrome (MS). We hypothesized that TSLP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with TSLP gene expression in VAT and with MS phenotypes. Following validation of lower TSLP expression (p=0.003) in VAT of severely obese men and women with (n=70) vs. without (n=60) MS, a detailed genetic investigation was performed at the TSLP locus by sequencing its promoter, exons and intron-exon splicing boundaries using DNA of 25 severely obese subjects. Five tagging SNPs were genotyped in the 130 subjects from the expression analysis to test whether these SNPs contributed to TSLP expre... Matrix metalloproteinases in metabolic syndrome. Authors: Hopps E, Caimi G Abstract Metabolic syndrome is commonly accompanied by an elevated cardiovascular risk with high morbidity and mortality. The alterations of the arterial vasculature begin with endothelial dysfunction and lead to micro- and macrovascular complications. The remodeling of the endothelial basal membrane, that promotes erosion and thrombosis, has a multifactorial pathogenesis that includes leukocyte activation, increased oxidative stress and also an altered matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression. MMPs are endopeptidases which degrade extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen, gelatins, fibronectin and laminin. They can be secreted by several cells within the vascular wall, but macrophages are determinant in the atherosclerotic plaques. Their activit... Growth differentiation factor-15, a novel biomarker related with disease severity in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSIONS: The present results show that higher levels of GDF-15 are associated to conditions of severe disease in HCM. Hence, GDF-15 is suggested as a novel marker related to the severity and could represent a further useful tool in monitoring functional capacity of HCM patients. PMID: 22284249 [PubMed - in process] (Source: European Journal of Internal Medicine)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Effects of renin-angiotensin blockers/inhibitors and statins on mortality and functional impairment in polypathological patients. CONCLUSIONS: The prescription of statins, alone or in combination with other drugs, may impact the survival and functional decline in polypathological patients. Further prospective blinded randomised assays are needed to confirm these observations. PMID: 22284251 [PubMed - in process] (Source: European Journal of Internal Medicine) Call to 'tax sugar like alcohol' This article will be of interest to food scientists, health policy makers and the public alike, but the use of strategies to restrict the consumption of added sugar is complicated and, indeed controversial. The implications of such moves would need to be considered in both medical and societal terms. They would need both medical evidence to support their effectiveness and assurance that the public would accept drastic changes, such as age limits on buying sweets. For example, in recent years, Denmark has imposed taxes on fatty foods, a move that has divided opinions greatly. It is generally accepted that added sugar or excessive sugar consumption is bad for health and dietitians advise restricting sugar intake to the occasional ?treat?. However, to what extent sugar is directly to blam... Hypertension major risk factor for mortality in Japan High blood pressure and tobacco smoking are the two major risk factors for adult mortality from noncommunicable diseases and injuries in Japan, researchers say. (Source: MedWire News - Hypertension) Long-Term Mortality and Role of Troponin Elevation in Hypertensive Emergencies We read with great interest the report ?Effect of Joint National Committee VII Report on Hospitalizations for Hypertensive Emergencies in the United States? by Deshmukh et al. The investigators provided a comprehensive overview of trends in hospitalizations and inpatient mortality for hypertensive emergencies before and after the publication of the Seventh Joint National Committee report on the prevention, detection, evaluation, and treatment of high blood pressure. They reported an average increase in hospitalizations of 1.11% and a decrease in inpatient mortality from 2.8% to 2.6% (after the publication of the report). (Source: The American Journal of Cardiology) How to Assess Microvascular Structure in Humans (Source: High Blood Pressure)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Prevalence of Hypertension and Sociodemographic Factors within the Scheduled Caste Community of the District Nadia, West Bengal, India (Source: High Blood Pressure) Role of Tissue Doppler Imaging for Detection of Diastolic Dysfunction in the Elderly: A Study in Clinical Practice (Source: High Blood Pressure) Microalbuminuria and Left Ventricular Mass in Overweight and Obese Hypertensive Patients: Role of the Metabolic Syndrome (Source: High Blood Pressure) RESPeRATE approved in UK for hypertension Innovative non-drug, non-invasive treatment device receives NHS stamp of approval (Source: Pharmacy Europe) Women Over Age 50 Not At Increased Risk During Pregnancy Via Egg Donation Compared To Younger Women Although women over age 50 who become pregnant via egg donation are at an elevated risk for developing obstetrical complications, their complication rates are similar to those of younger recipients, according to a study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers to be published in the February 2012 issue of the American Journal of Perinatology. This is contrary to epidemiological data suggesting that these women are at greater risk of certain complications of pregnancy, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, and placenta abnormalities... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> 1 in 2 Stroke Survivors Has High Blood Pressure A disturbing 47% of people who have had a stroke have poorly controlled high blood pressure, researchers say. (Source: WebMD Health) Reduction of NADPH-Oxidase Activity Ameliorates the Cardiovascular Phenotype in a Mouse Model of Williams-Beuren Syndrome by Victoria Campuzano, Maria Segura-Puimedon, Verena Terrado, Carolina Sánchez-Rodríguez, Mathilde Coustets, Mauricio Menacho-Márquez, Julián Nevado, Xosé R. Bustelo, Uta Francke, Luis A. Pérez-Jurado A hallmark feature of Williams-Beuren Syndrome (WBS) is a generalized arteriopathy due to elastin deficiency, presenting as stenoses of medium and large arteries and leading to hypertension and other cardiovascular complications. Deletion of a functional NCF1 gene copy has been shown to protect a proportion of WBS patients against hypertension, likely through reduced NADPH-oxidase (NOX)?mediated oxidative stress. DD mice, carrying a 0.67 Mb heterozygous deletion including the Eln gene, presented with a generalized arteriopathy, hypertension, and cardiac hypertrophy, associated wi... The Doctor Can Listen To You Now Did you hear the one about the patient who tackled his high blood pressure because of a friend's remark that stuck with him? Or the doctor who finally cracked an elusive diagnosis after letting his patient talk longer? Note: Viewing this article may require a subscription. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Quality/Equality) A novel vascular clip design for the reliable induction of 2-kidney, 1-clip hypertension in the rat The 2-kidney, 1-clip (2K1C) model has provided many insights into the pathogenesis of renovascular hypertension. However, studies using the 2K1C model often report low success rates of hypertension, with typical success rates of just 40–60%. We hypothesized that these low success rates are due to fundamental design flaws in the clips traditionally used in 2K1C models. Specifically, the gap widths of traditional silver clips may not be maintained during investigator handling and these clips may also be easily dislodged from the renal artery following placement. Therefore, we designed and tested a novel vascular clip possessing design features to maintain both gap width and position around the renal artery. In this initial study, application of these new clips to the left renal artery ... Spaceflight regulates ryanodine receptor subtype 1 in portal vein myocytes in the opposite way of hypertension Gravity has a structural role for living systems. Tissue development, architecture, and organization are modified when the gravity vector is changed. In particular, microgravity induces a redistribution of blood volume and thus pressure in the astronaut body, abolishing an upright blood pressure gradient, inducing orthostatic hypotension. The present study was designed to investigate whether isolated vascular smooth muscle cells are directly sensitive to altered gravitational forces and, second, whether sustained blood pressure changes act on the same molecular target. Exposure to microgravity during 8 days in the International Space Station induced the decrease of ryanodine receptor subtype 1 expression in primary cultured myocytes from rat hepatic portal vein. Identical results were foun...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> ACE2 gene polymorphism and essential hypertension: an updated meta-analysis involving 11,051 subjects. Authors: Lu N, Yang Y, Wang Y, Liu Y, Fu G, Chen D, Dai H, Fan X, Hui R, Zheng Y Abstract The polymorphisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene have been suggested to be linked to increase risk of essential hypertension in multiple populations. However, the results are still debatable. To assess the association between ACE2 G8970A genetic polymorphism and essential hypertension, we conducted a meta-analysis of case-control studies across different ethnicity. PubMed, Embase, CBM, Wanfang and VIP databases were searched, and a total of 11 separate studies in females and nine separate studies in males met the inclusion criteria. Because ACE2 is on the X chromosome, data for each sex were analyzed separately. The selected studies contained 7,251 (4,472 females/2,779 males) h... Tax and regulate sugar like alcohol and tobacco, urge scientists Sugar is as toxic to the liver as alcohol and is at the root of obesity and certain types of liver disease, claim US scientistsSugar should be regulated in the same way as alcohol and tobacco because its increasing use in processed foods poses a significant danger to public health, according to a group of scientists. They advocate controlling sales to children under 17 and taxing sugary foods.Sugar, they argue, is as toxic to the liver as alcohol and overconsumption is at the root of growing public health problems including obesity and certain types of liver disease.In an opinion article for the journal Nature, Robert Lustig, Laura Schmidt and Claire Brindis of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), said that, over the past 50 years, consumption of sugar had trebled worldwide.... Many children with liver transplants from parents can safely stop using anti-rejection drugs (New York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center) Physicians at three transplant centers have found in a pilot study that a majority of children who receive liver tissue from a parent can eventually stop using immunosuppression (anti-rejection) medications safely. These drugs, which tamp down natural immune function, have been linked to a bevy of complications, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension and kidney failure. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health) The Editors? Choice Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is a common disease caused by environmental allergens, such as pollens and animal dander, in allergic persons. Characteristic symptoms include runny nose, nasal itching, sneezing, and congestion. Antihistamines that block the first of 4 different receptors, molecules that mediate the effects of histamine released during allergies, are available over the counter and by prescription. These antihistamines are effective in treating allergic rhinitis?associated itching, runny nose, and sneezing but are not very effective against nasal congestion, often the most bothersome symptom. A number of decongestants are available either alone or in combination with these antihistamines, but they are not completely effective in treating nasal congestion either, and they of... Cardiovascular biomarkers and vascular function during childhood in the offspring of mothers with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: findings from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children Conclusion Pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension are associated with higher offspring BP in childhood in the absence of other vascular alterations or metabolic derangements. The findings support the existence of shared mother-offspring risk factors that are specific for higher BP, rather than the additional cardiometabolic abnormalities of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy having long-term consequences for offspring. (Source: European Heart Journal)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Abdominal obesity vs general obesity for identifying arterial stiffness, subclinical atherosclerosis and wave reflection in healthy, diabetics and hypertensive. Conclusions: The measures of abdominal obesity (WHtR and WC) correlates better than BMI and BFP with arterial stiffness evaluated by PWV, and with subclinical atherosclerosis evaluated by C-IMT, independently of the presence of diabetes or hypertension.Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT01325064 (Source: BMC Cardiovascular Disorders) The Heart Failure Society of America in 2020: A Vision for the Future In 1994 Dr. Jay Cohn and other leaders in cardiovascular disease met in New York city to explore the possibility of establishing a professional society that could channel the rapidly growing interest in the nascent field of heart failure into an effective force for improving patient care. The preceding 2 decades had been marked by unprecedented insights into the underlying pathophysiology of cardiac dysfunction that were paralleled by therapeutic advances that, for the first time, were shown to clearly improve outcomes in heart failure patients. At the same time, heart failure prevalence was rapidly increasing throughout the world because of the aging of the population, improved survival of patients with myocardial infarction and other cardiac conditions, and inadequate treatment of common... Model?based treatment optimisation of a novel VEGFR?inhibitor Conclusions:? The proposed hypertension intervention design is expected to be effective in maintaining patients on treatment with lenvatinib. The AE?guided dose titration with blood pressure as biomarker yielded a higher overall dose level, without relevant increases in toxicity. Since increased exposure to lenvatinib seems correlated with increased treatment efficacy, the adaptive treatment design may thus be a valid approach to improve treatment outcome.© 2012 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology © 2012 The British Pharmacological Society (Source: British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology) Proteomic analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from obese women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a new approach for identifying new candidates in the pathogenesis of obesity. In conclusion, we have identified potential candidates that could be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. Further studies addressed to investigating the precise role of these proteins in the pathogenesis of obesity and their potential therapeutic implications are needed. (Source: Journal of Neuroendocrinology) Pulmonary complications after major head and neck surgery: A retrospective cohort study Conclusions:Patients undergoing major head and neck surgery are at high risk of PPCs. Advanced age and hypertension significantly correlated with PPCs. PPCs correlate with prolonged ICU and hospital stays, and increased mortality. Further research is needed to define risk factors, useful investigations, and effective optimization strategies to mitigate PPCs. (Source: The Laryngoscope)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Association of glutathione S-transferase ? 1-1 polymorphisms (A140D and E208K) with the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-?), and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1) in humans chronically exposed to arsenic in drinking water. Authors: Escobar-García DM, Del Razo LM, Sanchez-Peña LC, Mandeville PB, Lopez-Campos C, Escudero-Lourdes C Abstract Human exposure to arsenicals is associated with inflammatory-related diseases including different kinds of cancer as well as non-cancerous diseases like neuro-degenerative diseases, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Interindividual susceptibility has been mainly addressed by evaluating the role of genetic polymorphism in metabolic enzymes in inorganic arsenic (iAs) metabolism. Glutathione S-transferase omega 1-1 (GSTO1-1), which had been associated with iAs metabolism, is also known to participate in inflammatory and apoptotic cellular responses. The polymorphism A140D of GSTO1-1 has been not only associated with distinct urinary profile of arsenic metab... Urinary Proteome Analysis to Exclude Severe Vesicoureteral Reflux CONCLUSIONS: This noninvasive test is ready for prospective validation in large cohorts with the aim of identifying those children with UTI and hydronephrosis in need of further invasive diagnostics, such as voiding cystourethrography, thus sparing most children without pathologic urinary proteome patterns from additional diagnostics. (Source: PEDIATRICS) A workplace physical activity program at a public university in Mexico can reduce medical costs associated with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. CONCLUSIONS: This research meets the call to use health economics methods to re-appraise health priorities, and devise strategies for optimal allocation of financial resources in the health sector. PMID: 22286825 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico) Optimal cutoff points for the detection of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, hypertension and metabolic syndrome in Mexican adults. CONCLUSIONS: The measurement of abdominal obesity defined by the IDF was a better screening tool for diabetes and hypertension, considering that initially a high sensitivity and low cost tool at population level is required. PMID: 22286824 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico) Prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome components in Mexican adults without type 2 diabetes or hypertension. CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of adults with obesity-related metabolic comorbidities remains undiagnosed in Mexico. PMID: 22286823 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Effect of Duration, Participation Rate, and Supervision During Community Rehabilitation on Functional Outcomes in the First Poststroke Year in Singapore Abstract: Koh GCHK, Saxena SK, Ng TP, Yong D, Fong NP. Effect of duration, participation rate, and supervision during community rehabilitation on functional outcomes in the first poststroke year in Singapore. Objective: To examine the effect of duration, participation rate, and supervision during community rehabilitation on functional outcome during the first poststroke year. Design: Prospective longitudinal study with interviews at admission, discharge, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge. Setting: Two subacute inpatient rehabilitation units and the community after discharge in Singapore. Participants: Subacute nonaphasic stroke patients (N=215). Intervention: Participation rate in supervised therapy (at an outpatient rehabilitation center) and unsupervised therapy (a... Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):BR69-75 "Determination of PKC isoform-specific protein expression in pulmonary arteries of rats with chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension" Conclusions: This study is the first systematic analysis of PKC isoform-specific membrane translocation and protein expression in pulmonary arteries, suggesting that the changes in membrane translocation and protein expression of cPKCalpha, betaI, betaII and nPKCdelta are involved in the development of hypoxia-induced rat PH. (Source: Medical Science Monitor) Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):CR78-87 "Relation of hs-CRP and BNP levels with the atrial spontaneous echo contrast and thrombi in permanent atrial fibrillation patients with different etiologies" Conclusions: Higher hs-CRP levels in AF patients may be a predictor for the presence of SEC and thrombi in the atria. (Source: Medical Science Monitor) Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):PH6-11 "How well do anthropometric indices correlate with cardiovascular risk factors? A cross-sectional study in Croati" Conclusions: Results encourage the use of BMI and WtHR as important tools in predicting CV risk in GP?s practice. (Source: Medical Science Monitor) Does a reduction in dialysate sodium improve blood pressure control in haemodialysis patients? Conclusion:? Change in clinical practice, amounting to a modest reduction in dialysate sodium was associated with a reduction not only in pre and postdialysis blood pressures, but also ultrafiltration requirements and symptomatic intradialytic hypotension. However this effect on blood pressure was most marked for older patients and women, within minimal effects for younger patients, and lesser effects for men, suggesting that dialysate sodium reduction alone may help improve blood pressure control, but requires additional factors such as dietary sodium restriction to be effective in younger male patients.© 2012 The Authors. Nephrology © 2012 Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology (Source: Nephrology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Cardiac O-GlcNAc signaling is increased in hypertrophy and heart failure Reversible protein O-GlcNAc modification has emerged as an essential intracellular signaling system in several tissues, including cardiovascular pathophysiology related to diabetes and acute ischemic stress. We tested the hypothesis that cardiac O-GlcNAc signaling is altered in chronic cardiac hypertrophy and failure of different etiologies. Global protein O-GlcNAcylation and the main enzymes regulating O-GlcNAc, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), O-GlcNAcase (OGA), and glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) were measured by immunoblot and/or real-time RT-PCR analyses of left ventricular tissue from aortic stenosis (AS) patients and rat models of hypertension, myocardial infarction (MI), and aortic banding (AB), with and without failure. We show here that global O-GlcNAcylation wa... Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension ?Probably Linked? to PFOA Contamination (Source: EHP-in-Press) Prevalence of chronic kidney disease and its associated risk factors: the first report from iran using both microalbuminuria and urine sediment. CONCLUSION: CKD and its main risk factors are common and represent a definite health threat in this region of Iran. Using and standardizing less expensive screening tests in low resource countries could be a good alternative that may improve the outcome through early detection of CKD. PMID: 22292573 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Iranian Medicine) Resperate: The £7 headset that can keep blood pressure low could help thousands of patients The device (pictured), which looks like a portable CD player, slows down breathing by playing relaxing music through headphones. But experts warn it should not replace any high blood pressure drugs. (Source: the Mail online \| Health) Hostile Social Interactions May Increase InflammationHostile Social Interactions May Increase Inflammation Hostile and competitive social interactions may increase proinflammatory cytokine reactivity, a phenomenon that has been linked to hypertension, diabetes, and coronary heart disease. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Early cardiac dysfunction is rescued by upregulation of SERCA2a pump activity in a rat model of metabolic syndrome ConclusionIn early stage, metabolic syndrome primarily disturbs SERCA2a function in the heart, but consequential hemodynamic dysfunction is prevented by upregulation of SERCA2a protein level, and phosphorylation pathways regulating phospholamban. However, this compensated state is very vulnerable to a further decline in SERCA2a function. (Source: Acta Physiologica) Natural language processing in EMRs can improve disease tracking Source: Jaan Sidorov, KevinMD Content: “Years ago, if you were elderly, had diabetes, high blood pressure, low back pain, needed a yearly flu shot and came to see this electronic health record-enabled physician (now with the nom de plume ?Disease Management Care Blog?), you would have had your diabetes, high blood pressure and low back [...] (Source: ICMCC: The International Council on Medical and Care Compunetics) Does Obesity Cause Pain? Title: Does Obesity Cause Pain?Category: Health NewsCreated: 1/31/2012 11:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Risks of pregnancy via egg donation similar for women over age 50 as for younger women (Columbia University Medical Center) Although women over age 50 who become pregnant via egg donation are at an elevated risk for developing obstetrical complications, their complication rates are similar to those of younger recipients, according to a study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers to be published in the February 2012 issue of the American Journal of Perinatology. This is contrary to epidemiological data suggesting that these women are at greater risk of certain complications of pregnancy, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, and placenta abnormalities. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science) Thiopental dose requirements for induction of anaesthesia and subsequent endotracheal intubation in patients with complete spinal cord injuries ConclusionsThese results suggest that the dose requirements of thiopental for induction of general anaesthesia and subsequent tracheal intubation are reduced in the SCI patients. (Source: Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Increased arterial smooth muscle Ca2+ signaling, vasoconstriction, and myogenic reactivity in Milan hypertensive rats The Milan hypertensive strain (MHS) rats are a genetic model of hypertension with adducin gene polymorphisms linked to enhanced renal tubular Na+ reabsorption. Recently we demonstrated that Ca2+ signaling is augmented in freshly isolated mesenteric artery myocytes from MHS rats. This is associated with greatly enhanced expression of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-1 (NCX1), C-type transient receptor potential (TRPC6) protein, and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2) compared with arteries from Milan normotensive strain (MNS) rats. Here, we test the hypothesis that the enhanced Ca2+ signaling in MHS arterial smooth muscle is directly reflected in augmented vasoconstriction [myogenic and phenylephrine (PE)-evoked responses] in isolated mesenteric small arteries. Systolic blood pressure was h... Autophagy mechanism of right ventricular remodeling in murine model of pulmonary artery constriction Although right ventricular failure (RVF) is the hallmark of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), the mechanism of RVF is unclear. Development of PAH-induced RVF is associated with an increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Increases in oxidative stress lead to generation of nitro-tyrosine residues in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) and liberate active matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs). To test the hypothesis that an imbalance in MMP-to-TIMP ratio leads to interstitial fibrosis and RVF and whether the treatment with folic acid (FA) alleviates ROS generation, maintains MMP/TIMP balance, and regresses interstitial fibrosis, we used a mouse model of pulmonary artery constriction (PAC). After surgery mice were given FA in their drinking water (0.03 g/l) for 4 wk. Produ... PVN adenovirus-siRNA injections silencing either NOX2 or NOX4 attenuate aldosterone/NaCl-induced hypertension in mice Mineralocorticoid excess increases superoxide production by activating NADPH oxidase (NOX), and intracerebroventricular infusions of NADPH oxidase inhibitors attenuate aldosterone (Aldo)/salt-induced hypertension. It has been hypothesized that increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain may be a key mechanism in the development of hypertension. The present study investigated the brain regional specificity of NADPH oxidase and the role of NOX2 and NOX4 NADPH oxidase subunits in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in Aldo/salt-induced hypertension. PVN injections of adenoviral vectors expressing small interfering (si)RNA targeting NOX2 (AdsiRNA-NOX2) or NOX4 (AdsiRNA-NOX4) mRNAs were used to knock down NOX2 and NOX4 proteins. Three days later, delivery of Aldo (0.2 mg&mid... Time-dependent changes in autonomic control of splanchnic vascular resistance and heart rate in ANG II-salt hypertension Previous studies suggest that ANG II-induced hypertension in rats fed a high-salt (HS) diet (ANG II-salt hypertension) has a neurogenic component dependent on an enhanced sympathetic tone to the splanchnic veins and independent from changes in sympathetic nerve activity to the kidney or hind limb. The purpose of this study was to extend these findings and test whether altered autonomic control of splanchnic resistance arteries and the heart also contributes to the neurogenic component. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), superior mesenteric artery blood flow, and mesenteric vascular resistance (MVR) were measured during 4 control days, 14 days of ANG II delivered subcutaneously (150 ng·kg–1·min–1), and 4 days of recovery in conscious rats fed a HS (2% N... Angiotensin-(1-7) attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac remodeling associated with upregulation of dual-specificity phosphatase 1 In this study, saline- or ANG II-infused rats were treated with ANG-(1–7) to determine whether the heptapeptide reduces myocyte hypertrophy in vivo and to identify the signaling pathways involved in the process. ANG II infusion into normotensive rats elevated systolic blood pressure >50 mmHg, in association with increased myocyte cross-sectional area, ventricular atrial natriuretic peptide mRNA, and ventricular brain natriuretric peptide mRNA. Although infusion with ANG-(1–7) had no effect on the ANG II-stimulated elevation in blood pressure, the heptapeptide hormone significantly reduced the ANG II-mediated increase in myocyte cross-sectional area, interstitial fibrosis, and natriuretic peptide mRNAs. ANG II increased phospho-ERK1 and phospho-ERK2, whereas cotreatment with ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Enhanced catabolism to acetaldehyde in rostral ventrolateral medullary neurons accounts for the pressor effect of ethanol in spontaneously hypertensive rats In this study, evidence was sought to implicate the oxidative breakdown of ethanol in this strain-dependent hypertensive action of ethanol. Biochemical experiments revealed significantly higher catalase activity and similar aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in the RVLM of SHRs compared with WKY rats. We also investigated the influence of pharmacological inhibition of catalase (3-aminotriazole) or ALDH (cyanamide) on the cardiovascular effects of intra-RVLM ethanol or its metabolic product acetaldehyde in conscious rats. Compared with vehicle, ethanol (10 μg/rat) elicited a significant increase in blood pressure in SHRs that lasted for the 60-min observation period but had no effect on blood pressure in WKY rats. The first oxidation product, acetaldehyde, played a critical role in e... Blockage of the afferent sensitive pathway prevents sympathetic atrophy and hemodynamic alterations in rat portal hypertension ConclusionThese results indicate that the nervous system has a central role in the genesis of the circulatory abnormalities of portal hypertension, and support that mesenteric sympathetic atrophy contributes to splanchnic arterial vasodilation. (Source: Liver International) Elevated Blood Pressure is Associated with Rarefaction of the Retinal Vasculature in Children [Clinical and Epidemiologic Research] Conclusions. Higher blood pressure in children is associated with smaller retinal Df, reflecting rarefaction of the retinal microvasculature. Retinal fractal analysis detects early subtle microvascular effects of elevated blood pressure, and may further the understanding of the genesis of ocular and systemic vascular complications of hypertension. (Source: Investigative Ophthalmology) Could the ?Cochin risk prediction score? be applied in daily practice to predict pulmonary hypertension in systemic sclerosis? (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism) Effects of non contact low?frequency ultrasound on healing of suspected deep tissue injury: a retrospective analysis The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of non contact low?frequency ultrasound on the healing of suspected deep tissue injury (SDTI). Participants were adults ranging in age from 28 to 93 years old, with multiple diagnoses including anaemia, diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Data were examined retrospectively on 85 patients (intervention group = 43 and non intervention group = 42) with 127 SDTI (intervention group = 64 and non intervention group = 63). Participants in both groups received standard of care for treating pressure ulcers. A severity score was used to assess SDTI severity before treatment and healing/progression after treatment. This scale measures surface area, wound colour/tissue assessment, and skin integrity with potential scores of 3 to 18 (higher sc...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Behavioural Modification of the Cholinergic Anti?inflammatory Response to C?Reactive Protein in Patients with Hypertension Conclusions:? Changes in hsCRP were consistent with the inhibitory effect of increased vagal efferent activity on pro?inflammatory factors predicted by the cholinergic anti?inflammatory reflex model. Clinical trials for patients with cardiovascular dysfunction are warranted to assess whether behavioural interventions can contribute independently to the chronic regulation of inflammatory activity and to improved clinical outcomes. (Source: Journal of Internal Medicine) Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction It has been known for more than 60 years, and suspected for over 100, that alveolar hypoxia causes pulmonary vasoconstriction by means of mechanisms local to the lung. For the last 20 years, it has been clear that the essential sensor, transduction, and effector mechanisms responsible for hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) reside in the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell. The main focus of this review is the cellular and molecular work performed to clarify these intrinsic mechanisms and to determine how they are facilitated and inhibited by the extrinsic influences of other cells. Because the interaction of intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms is likely to shape expression of HPV in vivo, we relate results obtained in cells to HPV in more intact preparations, such as intact and isol... Impact of preoperative Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use on clinical outcomes after cardiac surgery. CONCLUSIONS: We found no association between preoperative ACEi therapy and adverse in-hospital outcomes or long-term survival after CABG. Preoperative ACEi therapy appears to be safe in patients undergoing CABG. PMID: 22269723 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery) Type B aortic dissection after the use of tadalafil. This report and three other cases add a new dimension to the known predisposing factors such as chronic systemic hypertension, hereditary connective tissue diseases- and congenital aortic valve diseases. However, the precise role of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the pathophysiology of aortic dissection remains unknown. PMID: 22269733 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery) A Better Option for Patients With TGA/VSD and Severe Pulmonary Hypertension Undergoing Palliative Arterial Switch Operation. Authors: Lui RC, Zhuang J, Lei BF PMID: 22269750 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Long?term low?dose maintenance pegylated interferon may prevent decompensation in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension: Are we there yet? (Source: Hepatology) Two-Arm Blood Pressure Checks May Spot "Silent" Risks A new study appears to support the idea that blood pressure checks should be done in both arms. Researchers at the University of Exeter Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (PCMD) in the UK reviewed evidence covering differences in systolic blood pressure between arms and found it could be a useful way to spot elevated risk of vascular disease and even death in cases that might otherwise be "clinically silent". Findings of the systematic review and meta-analysis are published online in The Lancet on 30 January... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today) Drug Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer Title: Drug Approved for Advanced Kidney CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/27/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/30/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms Could Signal Heart Risk Title: Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms Could Signal Heart RiskCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/29/2012 8:05:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/30/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Lumbar peritoneal shunt in idiopathic intracranial hypertension. CONCLUSION: LP shunt is safe and effective in IIH. Results in terms of improvement in vision were better in good pre operatively vision group. PMID: 22274966 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Turkish Neurosurgery)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Difference in arm blood pressure indicator of vascular disease Blood pressure in both arms should be measured as routine, say authorsRelated items from OnMedicaGovernment plans new CVD strategyYellow patches on eyelids marker for heart diseaseRecurrent stroke more likely at very low BPTight blood pressure control can save kidneysAdherence training helps cut high blood pressure (Source: OnMedica Latest News) Cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist ameliorates mesenteric angiogenesis and portosystemic collaterals in cirrhotic rats Conclusions: CB2 agonist alleviates portal hypertension, severity of portosystemic collaterals and mesenteric angiogenesis, intrahepatic angiogenesis and fibrosis in cirrhotic rats. The mechanism is, at least partly, through COX and NOS down?regulation. Cannabinoids may be targeted in the control of portal hypertension and portosystemic collaterals. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology) Living and dying well with end?stage liver disease: Time for palliative care? (Source: Hepatology) The therapeutic effect of Rosuvastatin on cardiac remodeling from hypertrophy to fibrosis during the end?stage hypertension in rats ConclusionThe present study revealed that old?aged SHRs developed cardiac remodeling from hypertrophy to fibrosis via cardiac apoptosis during the end stage of hypertensive heart disease. These pathological changes might be the consequence of activation of AT1 Receptor?PKC?2/??ERK?c?fos and AKT?FOXO1/Bcl?2/survivin/Caspase3 signaling. Rosuvastatin effectively attenuated the structural changes by reversing the signaling transductions involved.© 2012 The Authors Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine © 2012 Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine/Blackwell Publishing Ltd (Source: Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine) Diabetes Lifestyle Changes Did you know that lifestyle changes are more powerful than medications?  In addition, diabetes is a disease that is not made up of just one symptom (high blood sugar).  We often deal with high triglycerides, high blood pressure, high insulin levels, and other conditions. Each symptom or associated condition of diabetes could be treated with different medications, but lifestyle changes could bring sweeping changes across the board.  Granted, lifestyle changes may not be enough for everyone.  However, it doesn't hurt to give them a try. Read about Diabetes Lifestyle Changes that could change your life.Diabetes Lifestyle Changes originally appeared on About.com Diabetes on Monday, January 30th, 2012 at 03:48:00.Permalink \| Comment \| Email this (Source: About Diabetes)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Do Drug Warnings and Market Withdrawals Have an Impact on the Number of Calls to Teratogen Information Services? PharmacopsychiatryDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1297974IMAGe provides information on risks and benefits of medication use during pregnancy and lactationThe aim of this study was to determine the impact of Health Canada warnings on the number of calls received at IMAGe.We analyzed calls received between January 2003 and March 2008. The impact of the following warning/withdrawal were studied: paroxetine and risk of cardiac malformations (09/29/2005), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) (03/10/2006), and impact of rofecoxib market withdrawal (09/30/2004). Interrupted auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) analyses were used to test the impact of each warning on the number of calls received to IMAGe.61?505... Intracranial Hemorrhage: Diagnosis and Management This article addresses the diagnosis and general management of ICH and discusses specialized management for select ICH subtypes. (Source: Neurologic Clinics) Head and Spinal Cord Injury: Diagnosis and Management This article reviews aspects of management of traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. A discussion of management of intracranial pressure after traumatic brain injury is followed by a discourse on cerebrovascular trauma and pediatric injuries. Specific management methods are discussed, including medical and surgical management in intracranial hypertension. A special attempt is made to include the current recommendations for management of brain and spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries are discussed in the final section. With an increasing number of patients surviving after devastating spinal cord injuries, the special issues in their management are evaluated. (Source: Neurologic Clinics) Brain Bleeds High in Expectant Blacks, Hypertensives (CME/CE) (MedPage Today) -- African-American women and women who develop hypertension are at risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with pregnancy, a retrospective study found. (Source: MedPage Today Geriatrics) Evaluation of the Dose-Response Relationship of Amlodipine and Losartan Combination in Patients with Essential Hypertension: An 8-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Factorial, Phase II, Multicenter Study (Source: American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Laryngoscopy in conscious patients with remifentanil: how useful is an ?awake look?? Conclusions: Using remifentanil as the sole analgesic allows evaluation of the larynx with direct laryngoscopy in a conscious patient. A poor Cormack-Lehane grade in a conscious patient may or may not improve with general anesthesia. (Source: Journal of Clinical Anesthesia) Effects of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers on Endothelial?Nitric Oxide Release ? The Role of eNOS Variants Conclusions:? The ARBs differentially enhanced NO release in ECs in a manner influenced by eNOS single nucleotide polymorphisms. These findings provide new insights into the effects of ARBs on EC?dependent vasodilation and eNOS function.© 2012 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology © 2012 The British Pharmacological Society (Source: British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology) Is Hyperuricemia the Missing Piece in the Metabolic Syndrome Puzzle? Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Trial ReportPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11906-012-0249-8Authors Zohreh Soltani, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1542 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USAEfrain Reisin, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1542 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA Journal Current Hypertension ReportsOnline ISSN 1534-3111Print ISSN 1522-6417 (Source: Current Hypertension Reports) Dialysate Sodium Concentration and the Association with Interdialytic Weight Gain, Hospitalization, and Mortality This analysis of observational DOPPS data examined the impact of reduced dialysate sodium on clinical outcomes. While lowering dialysate sodium was associated with lower interdialytic weight gain, it was also associated with increased hospitalization. No mortality benefit was associated with reduced dialysate sodium. : Fatal and Nonfatal Outcomes, Incidence of Hypertension, and Blood Pressure Changes in Relation to Urinary Sodium Excretion Sodium Bicarbonate for the Prevention of Contrast Induced-Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Long Interdialytic Interval and Mortality among Patients Receiving Hemodialysis (Source: Nephrology Now) Fatal idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis in association with pregnancy ? Medico-legal evaluation Abstract: Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis is a rare disorder characterised by repeated episodes of intra-alveolar bleeding in association with consecutive anaemia, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and respiratory failure. Pregnancy may exacerbate the symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis typically worsening in the third trimester. A 32-year-old female after delivery was admitted to hospital with progressive dyspnoea of about 1-month duration. Sudden circulatory collapse caused fatal complication. During the post-mortem investigation, lung haemorrhage and histologically abundant iron deposition in macrophages and interstitial fibrosis were found. Medico-legal post-mortem evaluation of fatal cases may support the clinico-pathological context of the diagnosis of this e...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Erratum to: Influence of Telmisartan on Insulin Response after Glucose Loading in Obese Patients with Hypertension: ARB Trial of Hypertension in Obese Patients with Hyperinsulinemia Assessed by Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (ATHLETE). Authors: Mori Y, Tanaka T, Matsuura K, Yokoyama J, Utsunomiya K PMID: 22287086 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Advances in Therapy) Strategies for Reducing Maternal Mortality The maternal death rate in the United States has shown no improvement in several decades and may be increasing. On the other hand, hospital systems that have instituted comprehensive programs directed at the prevention of maternal mortality have demonstrated rates that are half of the national average. These programs have emphasized the reduction of variability in the provision of care through the use of standard protocols, reliance on checklists instead of memory for critical processes, and an approach to peer review that emphasizes systems change. In addition, elimination of a small number of repetitive errors in the management of hypertension, postpartum hemorrhage, pulmonary embolism, and cardiac disease will contribute significantly to a reduction in maternal mortality. Attention to t... Maternal Mortality From Preeclampsia/Eclampsia Preeclampsia/eclampsia is one of the 3 leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. During the past 50 years, there has been a significant reduction in the rates of eclampsia, maternal mortality, and maternal morbidity in the developed countries. In contrast, the rates of eclampsia, maternal complications, and maternal mortality remain high in the developing countries. These differences are mainly due to universal access to prenatal care, access to timely care, and proper management of patients with preeclampsia?eclampsia in the developed countries. In contrast, most of maternal deaths and complications are due to lack of prenatal care, lack of access to hospital care, lack of resources, and inappropriate diagnosis and management of patients with preeclampsia?eclampsia... Video: HealthPop: Narcissism, pessimism and pain Narcissists are at a greater risk for high blood pressure and heart problems; Also, men with higher levels of lead are more likely to be pessimistic; And, women consistently report higher levels of pain than men. CBSNews.com's Nick Dietz has the details. (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com) Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Risk Factors In Pregnant Women Approximately 1 in every 15,000 pregnant women will develop subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - bleeding in the area between the brain and the thin membranes that cover the brain, according to a study published in the February issue of Anesthesiology. The researchers found that: the most common risk factor for pregnancy-related SAH is high-blood pressure disorders its incidence is elevated in pregnant women ruptured aneurysms play a less important role in pregnant patients than non-pregnant patients with SHA Lead researcher Brian T. Bateman, M.D... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Towards understanding seasonal variability in cervical artery dissection (CeAD) Abstract  Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) occurs more often in autumn or winter than in spring or summer. We searched for clinical variables associated with this seasonality by comparing CeAD patients with onset of symptoms in autumn?winter (September 22?March 21) versus those with first CeAD symptom in spring?summer (March 22?September 21). We performed a cross-sectional study using data from the multicenter CADISP (Cervical Artery Dissection and Ischemic Stroke Patients) registry. Age- and sex-matched patients with ischemic stroke attributable to a cause other than CeAD (non-CeAD patients) were analyzed to study the specificity of our findings. Autumn?winter CeAD patients had a higher median brachial pulse pressure at admission (55 vs. 52 mmHg; p =&nb... Intraoperative MRI and endocrinological outcome of transsphenoidal surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma Conclusion  The use of iMRI in transsphenoidal surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma might lead to higher total resection rates. In our series, resection of remnants detected by iMRI was neither associated with higher incidences of postoperative hypopituitarism nor with lower recovery rates of pituitary axes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00701-012-1285-5Authors Sven Berkmann, Department of Neurosurgery, Kantonsspital Aarau, Tellstrasse, 5001 Aarau, SwitzerlandJavier Fandino, Department of Neurosurgery, Kantonsspital Aarau, Tellstrasse, 5001 Aarau, SwitzerlandBeat Müller, Medical University Clinic, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, SwitzerlandLuca Remonda, Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Kantonsspit... Bariatric Surgery: Effects on the Metabolic Complications of Obesity Abstract  Bariatric surgery is increasing at an enormous rate in all countries but the indications for the operation on the basis of metabolic derangements are not clear, as only one controlled randomized trial specifically for a comorbidity has been performed. Thus, it is not clear if bariatric surgery should be offered to all obese patients with long standing type 2 diabetes or poorly controlled hypertension or hypertriglyceridemia, even though these conditions clearly respond in most patients to bariatric surgery and weight loss. It would appear that patients with early type 2 diabetes with reasonable control and a greater body mass index gain more benefit from the operation. More randomized trials are required. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Coronary Heart Dis... Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds Upbeat thoughts plus education boosted adherence among blacks with high blood pressure, study found (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry) Urinary Bisphenol A and Hypertension in a Multiethnic Sample of US Adults Conclusions. Urinary BPA levels are associated with hypertension, independent of traditional risk factors. (Source: Comparative and Functional Genomics)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds Upbeat thoughts plus education boosted adherence among blacks with high blood pressure, study found Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: African-American Health, High Blood Pressure, Medicines (Source: MedlinePlus Health News) A giant true aneurysm of the celiac trunk A 80-year-old man was admitted to our department because of an arterial dilatation into the abdomen recorded during a routine ultrasound scan. His medical history was notable for smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and atrial fibrillation in anticoagulant therapy. The patient never underwent abdominal surgery and he was asymptomatic for abdominal pain. (Source: Journal of Vascular Surgery) Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds Title: Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their MedsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/27/2012 10:05:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/27/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Hypertension, Diabetes, and Kidney Disease: Predicting Serious Kidney Problems (Source: Consultant Live) Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study of AMG 386 Combined With Weekly Paclitaxel in Patients With Recurrent Ovarian Cancer [Gynecologic Cancer] Conclusion AMG 386 combined with weekly paclitaxel was tolerable, with a manageable and distinct toxicity profile. The data suggest evidence of antitumor activity and a dose-response effect, warranting further studies in ovarian cancer. (Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Bevacizumab and irinotecan in children with recurrent or refractory brain tumors: Toxicity and efficacy trends ConclusionBevacizumab?related acute toxicity appears to be low in children, even in combination with irinotecan. Further prospective trials are required to confirm the hypothetical efficacy of bevacizumab and to assess the risk of long?term toxicity especially in the youngest children. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Pediatric Blood and Cancer) The flavonoid MonoHER prevents monocrotaline?induced hepatic sinusoidal injury in rats ConclusionsMonoHER prevented MCT induced portal hypertension and hepatic injury in rats. J. Surg. Oncol © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Surgical Oncology) Ambulatory arterial stiffness indices and target organ damage in hypertension Background: The present study was designed to evaluate which arterial stiffness parameter - AASI or the home arterial stiffness index (HASI) - correlates best with vascular, cardiac and renal damage in hypertensive individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 258 hypertensive patients. AASI and HASI were defined as the 1-regression slope of diastolic over systolic blood pressure readings obtained from 24-hour recordings and home blood pressure over 6 days. Renal damage was evaluated by glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and microalbuminuria; vascular damage by carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), pulse wave velocity (PWV) and ankle/brachial index (ABI); and left ventricular hypertrophy by the Cornell voltage-duration product (VDP) and the Novacode index. Results: ... Comparative analysis of adverse drug reactions to cyclines: results of a French national survey and review of the literature Conclusions:? In the absence of markedly better efficacy against the various cycline indications, the minocycline benefit/risk ratio was clearly lower than that of doxycycline, and possibly those of lymecycline and metacycline. In light of these findings, minocycline should no longer be considered first?line therapy for inflammatory skin disorders, especially acne. (Source: British Journal of Dermatology) Midkine and the kidney: health and diseases Midkine (MK; gene name, Mdk), a heparin-binding growth factor, regulates cell growth, cell survival, migration and anti-apoptotic activity in nephrogenesis and development. In the kidney, MK is expressed mainly in proximal tubular epithelial cells and is induced by oxidative stress through the activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α. The pathophysiological roles of MK are diverse, ranging from the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) to progression of chronic kidney disease, often accompanied by hypertension, renal ischemia and diabetic nephropathy. In particular, hypertension has indispensable implications for various vascular diseases, including cardiovascular and renal disorders. Mdk+/+ mice exhibited marked hypertension in renal ablation model compared with Mdk–/&ndash...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Outcome of the living kidney donor Renal transplantation from living kidney donors is still relatively marginal in most of the European countries. However, this source of kidney grafts may help to overcome in part the organ donor shortage of cadaveric donors. The living donor strategy implies correct and objective information about donation risks and completely free acceptance of the living candidate of the donation. In this paper, we reviewed the consequences of kidney donation on the living donor health, considering very short term (linked to the surgery), short term (effect of nephrectomy on glomerular filtration rate) and long term (risk of mortality, chronic kidney disease, proteinuria and hypertension) consequences of kidney donation. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation) Angiotensin II receptor blocker pretreatment of rats undergoing sudden renal ablation Conclusions. These studies dissociated systemic hypertension and proteinuria from the renal lesions in this model. Durable effects of losartan on blood pressure and proteinuria likely represent epigenetic processes. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation) Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism A1298C (Glu429Ala) predicts decline in renal function over time in the African-American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK) Trial and Veterans Affairs Hypertension Cohort (VAHC) Conclusion. We conclude that the MTHFR-coding polymorphism at A1298C is associated with renal decline in African-Americans with hypertensive nephrosclerosis and is supported by a veteran cohort with a primary care diagnosis of hypertension. Further investigation is needed to confirm such findings and to determine what molecular mechanism may contribute to this association. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation) Higher hemoglobin level is associated with subtle declines in renal function and presence of cardiorenal risk factors in early CKD stages Conclusion. Hemoglobin concentration may be slightly higher across subtle declines in renal function and the presence of cardiorenal risk factors in early CKD stages. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation) Is N-terminal probrain-type natriuretic peptide a clinically useful biomarker of volume overload in peritoneal dialysis patients? Conclusion. In this cross-sectional study, although NTproBNP was associated with residual renal function, cardiac hypertrophy, volume overload and inflammation on simple univariate analysis, on further examination NTproBNP was predominantly affected by factors associated with volume overload, and these results require confirmation in a prospective study. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Pulmonary arterial hypertension: an update. Authors: Correale M, Montrone D, Ieva R, Di Biase M PMID: 22282332 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Netherlands Heart Journal) Scavenging of NADPH Oxidase-derived Superoxide Anions Improves Depressed Baroreflex Sensitivity in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Authors: Guimarães DD, Carvalho CC, Braga VA Abstract 1. In pathological conditions such as hypertension, there is impairment in the autonomic control of blood pressure resulting in changes in baroreflex sensitivity. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that acute superoxide scavenging would restore the depressed baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). 2. Male 10-week-old SHR (n=14) and their controls (WKY, n=14) underwent femoral artery and vein catheterization for conscious blood pressure recording and drug administration. BRS was obtained by the drug-induced method using phenylephrine (8 ?g/Kg, i.v.) and sodium nitroprusside (25 ?g/Kg, i.v.) before and after the administration of tiron (30 mg/Kg, i.v.), a superoxide dismutase mimetic, o... Diabetes Mellitus in Centenarians ConclusionDiabetes mellitus is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality but is seen in persons who live into very old age. Aside from higher rates of anemia and use of more medications, few clinical correlates of DM were observed in centenarians. (Source: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society) Physical Health Conditions Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in U.S. Older Adults: Results from Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions ConclusionOlder adults with lifetime PTSD have high rates of several physical health conditions, many of which are chronic disorders of aging, and poorer physical functioning. Older adults with lifetime partial PTSD have higher rates of gastritis, angina pectoris, and arthritis and poorer physical functioning. (Source: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society) How can you mend a broken heart? Diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking. These have long been recognized as major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Now, a study just published in the New England Journal of Medicine starkly demonstrates just how significantly these factors increase a person?s risk of stroke or heart attack. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Near-miss maternal mortality: cardiac dysfunction as the principal cause of obstetric intensive care unit admissions. CONCLUSION: : In this obstetric population, the leading reason for ICU admissions was cardiac disease. The increasing prevalence of advanced maternal age, congenital heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension among women who are of childbearing age may be contributing factors. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: : III. PMID: 22270275 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology) Subclinical thyroid disease and the incidence of hypertension in pregnancy. CONCLUSION: : Women with subclinical hypothyroidism identified during pregnancy have an increased risk for severe preeclampsia when compared with euthyroid women. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: : II. PMID: 22270283 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology) Maternal cardiac disease: update for the clinician. Authors: Simpson LL Abstract Heart disease complicates more than 1% of pregnancies and is now the leading cause of indirect maternal deaths. The spectrum and severity of heart disease observed in reproductive-aged women is changing. Today, congenital heart disease accounts for more than half of cardiac disease in pregnancy, and ischemic heart disease is on the rise as a result of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and delayed childbearing. Pregnancy is still contraindicated in women with pulmonary hypertension, severe systemic ventricular dysfunction, dilated aortopathy, and severe left-sided obstructive lesions, but advances in medical and surgical management have resulted in an increasing number of patients with congenital heart defects reaching childbearing age who are interested ... Practice bulletin no. 125: chronic hypertension in pregnancy. Practice bulletin no. 125: chronic hypertension in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Feb;119(2 Pt 1):396 Authors: PMID: 22270315 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology) Spleno-parametrial ectopic varices: an unusual porto-systemic shunt in portal hypertension. CONCLUSION: : Unrecognized portal hypertension and resultant porto-systemic shunts may mask themselves as vascular masses and result in catastrophic surgical outcomes if not fully characterized preoperatively. PMID: 22270437 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Pure Motor Monoparesis in the Leg due to a Lateral Medullary Infarction A 76-year-old man with essential hypertension abruptly presented with slight left-sided leg weakness, despite normal strength in the other extremities. Left-sided Babinski's reflex was detected. There were no other neurologic abnormalities. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a small infarction in the lower lateral medulla oblongata on the left side. Cranial magnetic resonance angiography demonstrated an absence of flow of the left vertebral artery. He became asymptomatic within 10 days under intravenous antiplatelet agent. The corticospinal tract fibers innervating the lower extremity caudal to the pyramidal decussation might be involved. We emphasize that this is a first reported case of pure motor monoparesis in the leg due to lateral medullary infarction. (Source: Advan... Massive decline in deadly heart attacks Conclusion The strengths of this study lie in its very large size and its complete national coverage. One possible limitation is its reliance on the accuracy of routine data and diagnosis codes used from English hospitals, although, as the authors point out, research has shown high accuracy rates for this type of hospital data. It should be noted that although the study shows a fall in heart attacks and also in death rates among heart attack patients, it does not tell us the precise causes of either. The fall in heart attacks is likely to be linked to healthier lifestyles, earlier detection and a better management of risk factors such as high blood pressure in people at risk. Also, the study only examined deaths from heart attacks and the definition of this has changed over the years, so t... Diet Soft Drink Consumption is Associated with an Increased Risk of Vascular Events in the Northern Manhattan Study CONCLUSIONS  Daily diet soft drink consumption was associated with several vascular risk factors and with an increased risk for vascular events. Further research is needed before any conclusions can be made regarding the potential health consequences of diet soft drink consumption. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11606-011-1968-2Authors Hannah Gardener, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Clinical Research Building, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136, USATatjana Rundek, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Clinical Research Building, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136, USAMatthew Marke... Diabetes and Hypertension: Is There a Common Metabolic Pathway? Abstract  Diabetes and hypertension frequently occur together. There is substantial overlap between diabetes and hypertension in etiology and disease mechanisms. Obesity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance are thought to be the common pathways. Recent advances in the understanding of these pathways have provided new insights and perspectives. Physical activity plays an important protective role in the two diseases. Knowing the common causes and disease mechanisms allows a more effective and proactive approach in their prevention and treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Coronary Heart Disease (J Farmer, Section Editor)Pages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11883-012-0227-2Authors Bernard M. Y. Cheung, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokful... Cystinuria: mechanisms and management Abstract  Cystinuria is a relatively uncommon cause of pediatric stone disease, but has significant morbidity if not properly controlled because of its significant stone recurrence rate. Cystinuria is caused by the inability of the renal tubules to reabsorb filtered cystine, which is poorly soluble at a typical urine pH <7. Although many advances have been made in the understanding of the genetic and physiological basis of cystinuria, the cornerstones of treatment still involve stone prevention with dietary measures and pharmacological therapy, coupled with surgical interventions for stone removal. Pharmacological treatments can carry significant side effects that must be monitored and can limit therapy as well as impede compliance. Most patients will require surgical in...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Aliskiren: A Potential Antiarrhythmic Drug? (Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension) Study: Optimal heart health starts early People who reach midlife without developing high blood pressure or diabetes are much less likely to have a heart attack or stroke by age 80. (Source: USATODAY.com Health) Baroreflex Activation Therapy and Resistant Hypertension: Randomization Is Not Enough, You Should Measure Blood Pressure Appropriately We read with interest the elegantly written paper by Bisognano et al. () relating to the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled Rheos Pivotal Trial, which demonstrated that over the long-term, baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) can safely reduce systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with resistant hypertension. (Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Reply We thank Dr. Tsioufis and colleagues for their recent letter regarding the Rheos Pivotal Trial (). We provide the following clarifications based on their original comments. 1. Was blood pressure (BP) adequately characterized in the Rheos Pivotal Trial? The BpTRU (BpTRU Medical Devices, Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada) repeated-measures protocol () was used throughout the trial to measure BP. BpTRU was selected for its correlation with and low bias in estimating daytime ambulatory BP (). Trial qualification requirements summarized in our paper are correct but incomplete: systolic blood pressure (SBP) ?160 mm Hg according to the BpTRU protocol was mandatory, along with 2 office cuff readings of SBP ?160 mm Hg within 3 months of enrollment. Resistant hypertension was assured by requi... Hypertensive Drug Compliance Improves With Positive Affirmation In African-Americans African-American patients with high blood pressure follow their medication regimen more effectively with a combination of positive affirmations and patient education, concludes a study published Online First in the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. In comparison to white people, African-Americans are disproportionately affected by hypertension. The authors state in the background information of the article, that a poorly adhered to medication regimen tends to explain poor blood pressure control, which can lead to cardiovascular problems and death... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Children With A Genetic Variation Who Are Prescribed Antipsychotics At Increased Risk Of Metabolic Side Effects Researchers have found a genetic variation predisposing children to six-times greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome when taking second-generation anti-psychotic medications. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The study showed a close association with two conditions in particular: high blood pressure and elevated fasting blood sugar levels, which is a precursor to diabetes. The research is published in the medical research journal Translational Psychiatry... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today) Active Ingredient in Viagra Shrunk Disfiguring Growths in Kids Title: Active Ingredient in Viagra Shrunk Disfiguring Growths in KidsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/25/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Optimal Heart Health Starts Early: Study Title: Optimal Heart Health Starts Early: StudyCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/25/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Avastin May Help Fight Early Breast Cancer Title: Avastin May Help Fight Early Breast CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/26/2012 11:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General) Mild Memory Problems May Be More Common in Men Title: Mild Memory Problems May Be More Common in MenCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/26/2012 11:01:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div> Laparoscopic splenectomy and azygoportal disconnection with intraoperative splenic blood salvage Conclusion  Laparoscopic splenectomy with azygoportal disconnection is a feasible, effective, and safe surgical method for the treatment of bleeding portal hypertension. Intraoperative splenic blood salvage can avoid the risk associated with allogeneic transfusion during the procedure, with an advantage of significantly increased postoperative hemoglobin levels. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00464-012-2159-xAuthors Yuedong Wang, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Shangtang Rd, Hangzhou, 310014 ChinaYun Ji, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Shangtang Rd, Hangzhou, 310014 ChinaYangwen Zhu, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Sha... Automated-auscultatory (Hybrid) sphygmomanometers for clinic blood pressure measurement: a suitable substitute to mercury sphygmomanometer as reference standard? Automated-auscultatory (Hybrid) sphygmomanometers for clinic blood pressure measurement: a suitable substitute to mercury sphygmomanometer as reference standard? Journal of Human Hypertension advance online publication, January 26, 2012. doi:10.1038/jhh.2011.119 Authors: G Parati & J E Ochoa (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Relationship between inflammation and microalbuminuria in prehypertension Authors: J F Navarro-González, C Mora, M Muros, J García, J Donate & V Cazaña (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension) Increased immunohistochemical expression of YKL-40 in the spleen of patients with portal hypertension. Authors: Wang D, Lu JG, Wang Q, Du XL, Dong R, Wang P, Zhao L, Jiang X, Yuan LJ PMID: 22267006 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Braz J Med Biol Res) Primary Aldosteronism: Are We Missing the Wood for the Trees? Horm Metab ResDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1301281The prevalence of primary aldosteronism (PA) is around 10% of hypertensives, with markedly increased risk of cardiovascular damage compared with age-, sex- and BP-matched essential hypertension (EH). Currently, if hypertension is present in 20% of the population, PA will account for 2%; of these PA patients only 1% are ever screened, let alone diagnosed and treated, and the remaining 99% suboptimally treated, if at all. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists are effective in lowering BP, uniquely vasoprotective and safe when titrated to effect in EH. In resistant hypertension (BP elevated despite 3 or more conventional agents, including a diuretic), which constitutes 20?30% of EH, addition of a low dose MR antagonist reproducibly produces BP ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div> Sulforaphane Inhibits Mitotic Clonal Expansion During Adipogenesis Through Cell Cycle Arrest. In this study, the inhibitory effect of sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate, on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells was investigated. Sulforaphane decreased the accumulation of lipid droplets stained with Oil Red O and inhibited the elevation of triglycerides in the adipocytes (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 7.3 µmol/l). The expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ? (PPAR?) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein ? (C/EBP?), major transcription factors for adipocyte differentiation, was significantly reduced by sulforaphane. The major effects of sulforaphane on the inhibition of adipocyte differentiation occurred during the early stage of adipogenesis. Thus, the expression of C/EBP?, an early-stage biomarker of adipogenesis, decreased in a concentration-dependent manner whe... Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio as a measure of systemic inflammation in prevalent chronic diseases in Asian population. Conclusions: Systemic inflammation measured by NLR has a significant association with prevalent chronic conditions. Future research is needed to investigate this relationship with longitudinal data to establish the temporal association between these variables. (Source: International Archives of Medicine) Selective Class I Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Suppresses Hypoxia-Induced Cardiopulmonary Remodeling Through an Antiproliferative Mechanism. Conclusions:By targeting distinct pathogenic mechanisms, isoform-selective HDAC inhibitors have potential as novel therapeutics for pulmonary hypertension that will complement vasodilator standards of care. PMID: 22282194 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Circulation Research) Insulin resistance: Is it time for primary prevention? Authors: Mercurio V, Carlomagno G, Fazio V, Fazio S Abstract Insulin resistance is a clinical condition characterized by a decrease in sensitivity and responsiveness to the metabolic actions of insulin, so that a given concentration of insulin produces a less-than-expected biological effect. As a result, higher levels of insulin are needed to maintain normal glucose tolerance. Hyperinsulinemia, indeed, is one of the principal characteristics of insulin resistance states. This feature is common in several pathologic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia, and it is also a prominent component of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and atherosclerosis. The presence of endothelial dysfunction, related to insulin resistance, plays a key role in the development ...

hypertension and high blood pressure guide

Understanding Hypertension And High Blood Pressure

Hypertension is most commonly referred to as having "high blood pressure", HTN or HPN, is a medical condition in which the blood pressure is chronically elevated. High blood pressure is considered to be present when a person's systolic blood pressure is consistently 140 mmHg or greater, and/or their diastolic blood pressure is consistently 90 mmHg or greater.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition that affects many people in this country. However, many of these people are not even aware of their condition, since high blood pressure often has few if any symptoms. Undiagnosed hypertension can elevate the risk of many other health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. The good news is that high blood pressure is fairly easy to diagnose when it is tested for regularly, and there are many options in treating this condition that include lifestyle changes and medication.

Hypertension Risk Factors

Over the early years of life and into middle age, men tend to be more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure. In the later years, after menopause, the statistics for women and menopause tend to go up as well. Race is another risk factor in hypertension, with African Americans much more likely to be diagnosed with this condition than whites, and usually at an earlier age.

Other types of risk

Wristech blood pressure monitor

US $12.00 (0 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 4:54:02 PST
Place a Bid

HEINE ADULT SIZE BLOOD PRESSURE CUFF MADE IN GERMANY

US $30.00 (0 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 5:24:02 PST
Place a Bid

free shipping Digital Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor & Heart Beat Meter

US $10.99 (9 Bids)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 5:24:06 PST
Place a Bid

Omron blood pressure cuff (large and small)

US $3.25 (2 Bids)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 5:50:24 PST
Place a Bid

Omron 10+ Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor

US $79.99
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:11:18 PST
Buy It Now for only: US $79.99
Buy it Now

Omron HEM-432C Manual Inflation Blood Pressure Monitor

US $0.99 (1 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:11:21 PST
Place a Bid

Fuzzy Logic Wrist Strap Digital Blood Pressure Monitor

US $42.58
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:28:16 PST
Buy It Now for only: US $42.58
Buy it Now

Brooks Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

US $11.99 (0 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:29:12 PST
Buy It Now for only: US $19.99
Place a Bid
Buy it Now

Brooks Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

US $9.99 (0 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:34:22 PST
Buy It Now for only: US $15.99
Place a Bid
Buy it Now

Omron Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor model BP-755

US $52.50
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:39:13 PST
Buy It Now for only: US $52.50
Buy it Now

Walgreens by Homedics Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor 518731

US $9.99 (1 Bid)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:51:21 PST
Place a Bid

Walgreens Premium Arm Talking Blood Pressure Monitor WGNBPA-550

US $15.51 (3 Bids)
Sale Ends: Saturday Feb-04-2012 6:53:08 PST
Place a Bid

Click here to View more from this Category >

Feasibility of Partnering with Emergency Medical Services to Identify People at Risk for Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure
(Source: CDC Preventing Chronic Disease)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and toxicological evaluation of whole plant extracts of the medicinal plant Phyllanthus niruri (Phyllanthaceae).
We examined the geno-, cyto- and overall toxicity of P. niruri whole plant ethanolic extract. The extract was administered as a single dose of 30 or 300 mg/kg to laboratory rats by gavage, accompanied by negative (0.9% saline) and positive (10 mg/mL N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea) controls that were injected intramuscularly 48 h after extract administration. The ratio of polychromatic (PCE)/normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE) from femur bone marrow was scored for genotoxicity. Cytotoxicity was determined using descending concentrations (0.2-0.0125 g/mL) of the extract incubated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Lactate dehydrogenase release from damaged cells was determined and the CC(50) calculated. Subchronic administration of the extract at 30 or 300 mg/kg was done for 90 days to determine ...
CysLT1 receptor inhibition in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon: capillaroscopic evidence of the role of leukotriene
CONCLUSION: The use of montelukast modified the capillary abnormalities observed on nailfold capillaroscopy of patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (Source: Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia)
Fibromuscular dysplasia: a differential diagnosis of vasculitis
A displasia fibromuscular (DFM) envolve artérias de pequeno e médio calibre e é uma causa bem conhecida de hipertensão em mulheres jovens caucasianas, quando envolve as artérias renais. A etiologia da DFM permanece desconhecida, a despeito de inúmeras teorias. Há suspeita de um componente genético, já que a doença atinge primariamente caucasianos. Também é descrita associação entre DFM e antígeno de histocompatibilidade HlA-DRw6. Os principais sítios acometidos são as artérias renais, cerebrais, carótidas, viscerais, ilíacas, subclávias, braquiais e poplíteas. As manifestações clínicas correlacionam-se com o sítio acometido, e a hipertensão arterial sistêmica é um sintoma frequente pelo acometimento das artérias renais em 60%-75% dos casos. O diagnóstico da D...
Current and relevant concepts in psoriatic arthritis
A artrite psoriásica (APs) é uma doença articular sistêmica e polimórfica de apresentação e curso clínico variáveis, associada a comorbidades importantes como diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial e dislipidemia. Para o diagnóstico precoce da doença é necessário alto grau de suspeita clínica, sobretudo quando as manifestações cutâneas são sutis e pouco definidas. Doença erosiva progressiva pode ocorrer em até metade dos pacientes, associada a alterações anatômicas e funcionais em cerca de 20%, de modo que o prognóstico da APs permanece obscuro, especialmente se diagnóstico e tratamento forem tardios. Fundamentados em ampla revisão da literatura (PubMed e Lilacs) e experiência dos nossos serviços, novos conceitos de imunogenética, fisiopatologia, aspectos cl?...
Potatoes Lower Blood Pressure In Those With Obesity And Hypertension Without Increasing Weight
The first study to check the effects of eating potatoes on blood pressure in humans has concluded that two small helpings of purple potatoes (Purple Majesty) a day decreases blood pressure by about 4 percent without causing weight gain. In a report in the ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the researchers say that decrease, although seemingly small, is sufficient to potentially reduce the risk of several forms of heart disease. Joe Vinson and colleagues point out that people in the U.S. eat more potatoes than any other vegetable... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Series of 8 cases of Irukandji syndrome? or bait-and-switch
1.5 out of 5 stars Irukandji Sydrome [sic] in the Torres Strait: A Series of 8 Cases. McIver LJ et al. Wilderness Environ Med 2011;22:338-342. Abstract The problems with this paper merely begin with the dropped “n” in the second word of the title. Then we get to the first sentence of the abstract, where despite the title’s promise of a case series of Irukandji syndrome (or sydrome, or whatever) we find a classic medical literature bait-and-switch: Objective–To review the presentations of a series of patients with suspected Irukandji syndrome in the Torres Strait, where the syndrome has hitherto been unknown or undocumented, in order to identify at-risk groups and improve the management of this condition in the region. So we’re dealing not with cases of Irukan...
Blood pressure and associated factors in a North African adolescent population. A national cross-sectional study in Tunisia
Conclusion: Within the limits of BP measurement on one visit only, these results suggest that Tunisian adolescents of both genders are likely not spared from early elevated BP. Though further assessment is likely needed, the strong association with overweight/obesity observed suggests that interventions aimed at changing lifestyles to reduce this main risk factor may also be appropriate for the prevention of elevated BP. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin: an immune cytokine gene associated with the metabolic syndrome and blood pressure in severe obesity
A previous expression profiling of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) revealed that the thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) gene was less expressed in severely obese men with (n=7) vs. without (n=7) the metabolic syndrome (MS). We hypothesized that TSLP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with TSLP gene expression in VAT and with MS phenotypes. Following validation of lower TSLP expression (p=0.003) in VAT of severely obese men and women with (n=70) vs. without (n=60) MS, a detailed genetic investigation was performed at the TSLP locus by sequencing its promoter, exons and intron-exon splicing boundaries using DNA of 25 severely obese subjects. Five tagging SNPs were genotyped in the 130 subjects from the expression analysis to test whether these SNPs contributed to TSLP expre...
Matrix metalloproteinases in metabolic syndrome.
Authors: Hopps E, Caimi G Abstract Metabolic syndrome is commonly accompanied by an elevated cardiovascular risk with high morbidity and mortality. The alterations of the arterial vasculature begin with endothelial dysfunction and lead to micro- and macrovascular complications. The remodeling of the endothelial basal membrane, that promotes erosion and thrombosis, has a multifactorial pathogenesis that includes leukocyte activation, increased oxidative stress and also an altered matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression. MMPs are endopeptidases which degrade extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen, gelatins, fibronectin and laminin. They can be secreted by several cells within the vascular wall, but macrophages are determinant in the atherosclerotic plaques. Their activit...
Growth differentiation factor-15, a novel biomarker related with disease severity in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
CONCLUSIONS: The present results show that higher levels of GDF-15 are associated to conditions of severe disease in HCM. Hence, GDF-15 is suggested as a novel marker related to the severity and could represent a further useful tool in monitoring functional capacity of HCM patients. PMID: 22284249 [PubMed - in process] (Source: European Journal of Internal Medicine)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Effects of renin-angiotensin blockers/inhibitors and statins on mortality and functional impairment in polypathological patients.
CONCLUSIONS: The prescription of statins, alone or in combination with other drugs, may impact the survival and functional decline in polypathological patients. Further prospective blinded randomised assays are needed to confirm these observations. PMID: 22284251 [PubMed - in process] (Source: European Journal of Internal Medicine)
Call to 'tax sugar like alcohol'
This article will be of interest to food scientists, health policy makers and the public alike, but the use of strategies to restrict the consumption of added sugar is complicated and, indeed controversial. The implications of such moves would need to be considered in both medical and societal terms. They would need both medical evidence to support their effectiveness and assurance that the public would accept drastic changes, such as age limits on buying sweets. For example, in recent years, Denmark has imposed taxes on fatty foods, a move that has divided opinions greatly. It is generally accepted that added sugar or excessive sugar consumption is bad for health and dietitians advise restricting sugar intake to the occasional ?treat?. However, to what extent sugar is directly to blam...
Hypertension major risk factor for mortality in Japan
High blood pressure and tobacco smoking are the two major risk factors for adult mortality from noncommunicable diseases and injuries in Japan, researchers say. (Source: MedWire News - Hypertension)
Long-Term Mortality and Role of Troponin Elevation in Hypertensive Emergencies
We read with great interest the report ?Effect of Joint National Committee VII Report on Hospitalizations for Hypertensive Emergencies in the United States? by Deshmukh et al. The investigators provided a comprehensive overview of trends in hospitalizations and inpatient mortality for hypertensive emergencies before and after the publication of the Seventh Joint National Committee report on the prevention, detection, evaluation, and treatment of high blood pressure. They reported an average increase in hospitalizations of 1.11% and a decrease in inpatient mortality from 2.8% to 2.6% (after the publication of the report). (Source: The American Journal of Cardiology)
How to Assess Microvascular Structure in Humans
(Source: High Blood Pressure)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Prevalence of Hypertension and Sociodemographic Factors within the Scheduled Caste Community of the District Nadia, West Bengal, India
(Source: High Blood Pressure)
Role of Tissue Doppler Imaging for Detection of Diastolic Dysfunction in the Elderly: A Study in Clinical Practice
(Source: High Blood Pressure)
Microalbuminuria and Left Ventricular Mass in Overweight and Obese Hypertensive Patients: Role of the Metabolic Syndrome
(Source: High Blood Pressure)
RESPeRATE approved in UK for hypertension
Innovative non-drug, non-invasive treatment device receives NHS stamp of approval (Source: Pharmacy Europe)
Women Over Age 50 Not At Increased Risk During Pregnancy Via Egg Donation Compared To Younger Women
Although women over age 50 who become pregnant via egg donation are at an elevated risk for developing obstetrical complications, their complication rates are similar to those of younger recipients, according to a study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers to be published in the February 2012 issue of the American Journal of Perinatology. This is contrary to epidemiological data suggesting that these women are at greater risk of certain complications of pregnancy, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, and placenta abnormalities... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
1 in 2 Stroke Survivors Has High Blood Pressure
A disturbing 47% of people who have had a stroke have poorly controlled high blood pressure, researchers say. (Source: WebMD Health)
Reduction of NADPH-Oxidase Activity Ameliorates the Cardiovascular Phenotype in a Mouse Model of Williams-Beuren Syndrome
by Victoria Campuzano, Maria Segura-Puimedon, Verena Terrado, Carolina Sánchez-Rodríguez, Mathilde Coustets, Mauricio Menacho-Márquez, Julián Nevado, Xosé R. Bustelo, Uta Francke, Luis A. Pérez-Jurado A hallmark feature of Williams-Beuren Syndrome (WBS) is a generalized arteriopathy due to elastin deficiency, presenting as stenoses of medium and large arteries and leading to hypertension and other cardiovascular complications. Deletion of a functional NCF1 gene copy has been shown to protect a proportion of WBS patients against hypertension, likely through reduced NADPH-oxidase (NOX)?mediated oxidative stress. DD mice, carrying a 0.67 Mb heterozygous deletion including the Eln gene, presented with a generalized arteriopathy, hypertension, and cardiac hypertrophy, associated wi...
The Doctor Can Listen To You Now
Did you hear the one about the patient who tackled his high blood pressure because of a friend's remark that stuck with him? Or the doctor who finally cracked an elusive diagnosis after letting his patient talk longer? Note: Viewing this article may require a subscription. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Quality/Equality)
A novel vascular clip design for the reliable induction of 2-kidney, 1-clip hypertension in the rat
The 2-kidney, 1-clip (2K1C) model has provided many insights into the pathogenesis of renovascular hypertension. However, studies using the 2K1C model often report low success rates of hypertension, with typical success rates of just 40–60%. We hypothesized that these low success rates are due to fundamental design flaws in the clips traditionally used in 2K1C models. Specifically, the gap widths of traditional silver clips may not be maintained during investigator handling and these clips may also be easily dislodged from the renal artery following placement. Therefore, we designed and tested a novel vascular clip possessing design features to maintain both gap width and position around the renal artery. In this initial study, application of these new clips to the left renal artery ...
Spaceflight regulates ryanodine receptor subtype 1 in portal vein myocytes in the opposite way of hypertension
Gravity has a structural role for living systems. Tissue development, architecture, and organization are modified when the gravity vector is changed. In particular, microgravity induces a redistribution of blood volume and thus pressure in the astronaut body, abolishing an upright blood pressure gradient, inducing orthostatic hypotension. The present study was designed to investigate whether isolated vascular smooth muscle cells are directly sensitive to altered gravitational forces and, second, whether sustained blood pressure changes act on the same molecular target. Exposure to microgravity during 8 days in the International Space Station induced the decrease of ryanodine receptor subtype 1 expression in primary cultured myocytes from rat hepatic portal vein. Identical results were foun...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
ACE2 gene polymorphism and essential hypertension: an updated meta-analysis involving 11,051 subjects.
Authors: Lu N, Yang Y, Wang Y, Liu Y, Fu G, Chen D, Dai H, Fan X, Hui R, Zheng Y Abstract The polymorphisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene have been suggested to be linked to increase risk of essential hypertension in multiple populations. However, the results are still debatable. To assess the association between ACE2 G8970A genetic polymorphism and essential hypertension, we conducted a meta-analysis of case-control studies across different ethnicity. PubMed, Embase, CBM, Wanfang and VIP databases were searched, and a total of 11 separate studies in females and nine separate studies in males met the inclusion criteria. Because ACE2 is on the X chromosome, data for each sex were analyzed separately. The selected studies contained 7,251 (4,472 females/2,779 males) h...
Tax and regulate sugar like alcohol and tobacco, urge scientists
Sugar is as toxic to the liver as alcohol and is at the root of obesity and certain types of liver disease, claim US scientistsSugar should be regulated in the same way as alcohol and tobacco because its increasing use in processed foods poses a significant danger to public health, according to a group of scientists. They advocate controlling sales to children under 17 and taxing sugary foods.Sugar, they argue, is as toxic to the liver as alcohol and overconsumption is at the root of growing public health problems including obesity and certain types of liver disease.In an opinion article for the journal Nature, Robert Lustig, Laura Schmidt and Claire Brindis of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), said that, over the past 50 years, consumption of sugar had trebled worldwide....
Many children with liver transplants from parents can safely stop using anti-rejection drugs
(New York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center) Physicians at three transplant centers have found in a pilot study that a majority of children who receive liver tissue from a parent can eventually stop using immunosuppression (anti-rejection) medications safely. These drugs, which tamp down natural immune function, have been linked to a bevy of complications, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension and kidney failure. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)
The Editors? Choice
Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is a common disease caused by environmental allergens, such as pollens and animal dander, in allergic persons. Characteristic symptoms include runny nose, nasal itching, sneezing, and congestion. Antihistamines that block the first of 4 different receptors, molecules that mediate the effects of histamine released during allergies, are available over the counter and by prescription. These antihistamines are effective in treating allergic rhinitis?associated itching, runny nose, and sneezing but are not very effective against nasal congestion, often the most bothersome symptom. A number of decongestants are available either alone or in combination with these antihistamines, but they are not completely effective in treating nasal congestion either, and they of...
Cardiovascular biomarkers and vascular function during childhood in the offspring of mothers with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: findings from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children
Conclusion Pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension are associated with higher offspring BP in childhood in the absence of other vascular alterations or metabolic derangements. The findings support the existence of shared mother-offspring risk factors that are specific for higher BP, rather than the additional cardiometabolic abnormalities of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy having long-term consequences for offspring. (Source: European Heart Journal)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Abdominal obesity vs general obesity for identifying arterial stiffness, subclinical atherosclerosis and wave reflection in healthy, diabetics and hypertensive.
Conclusions: The measures of abdominal obesity (WHtR and WC) correlates better than BMI and BFP with arterial stiffness evaluated by PWV, and with subclinical atherosclerosis evaluated by C-IMT, independently of the presence of diabetes or hypertension.Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT01325064 (Source: BMC Cardiovascular Disorders)
The Heart Failure Society of America in 2020: A Vision for the Future
In 1994 Dr. Jay Cohn and other leaders in cardiovascular disease met in New York city to explore the possibility of establishing a professional society that could channel the rapidly growing interest in the nascent field of heart failure into an effective force for improving patient care. The preceding 2 decades had been marked by unprecedented insights into the underlying pathophysiology of cardiac dysfunction that were paralleled by therapeutic advances that, for the first time, were shown to clearly improve outcomes in heart failure patients. At the same time, heart failure prevalence was rapidly increasing throughout the world because of the aging of the population, improved survival of patients with myocardial infarction and other cardiac conditions, and inadequate treatment of common...
Model?based treatment optimisation of a novel VEGFR?inhibitor
Conclusions:? The proposed hypertension intervention design is expected to be effective in maintaining patients on treatment with lenvatinib. The AE?guided dose titration with blood pressure as biomarker yielded a higher overall dose level, without relevant increases in toxicity. Since increased exposure to lenvatinib seems correlated with increased treatment efficacy, the adaptive treatment design may thus be a valid approach to improve treatment outcome.© 2012 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology © 2012 The British Pharmacological Society (Source: British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology)
Proteomic analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from obese women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a new approach for identifying new candidates in the pathogenesis of obesity.
In conclusion, we have identified potential candidates that could be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. Further studies addressed to investigating the precise role of these proteins in the pathogenesis of obesity and their potential therapeutic implications are needed. (Source: Journal of Neuroendocrinology)
Pulmonary complications after major head and neck surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Conclusions:Patients undergoing major head and neck surgery are at high risk of PPCs. Advanced age and hypertension significantly correlated with PPCs. PPCs correlate with prolonged ICU and hospital stays, and increased mortality. Further research is needed to define risk factors, useful investigations, and effective optimization strategies to mitigate PPCs. (Source: The Laryngoscope)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Association of glutathione S-transferase ? 1-1 polymorphisms (A140D and E208K) with the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-?), and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1) in humans chronically exposed to arsenic in drinking water.
Authors: Escobar-García DM, Del Razo LM, Sanchez-Peña LC, Mandeville PB, Lopez-Campos C, Escudero-Lourdes C Abstract Human exposure to arsenicals is associated with inflammatory-related diseases including different kinds of cancer as well as non-cancerous diseases like neuro-degenerative diseases, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Interindividual susceptibility has been mainly addressed by evaluating the role of genetic polymorphism in metabolic enzymes in inorganic arsenic (iAs) metabolism. Glutathione S-transferase omega 1-1 (GSTO1-1), which had been associated with iAs metabolism, is also known to participate in inflammatory and apoptotic cellular responses. The polymorphism A140D of GSTO1-1 has been not only associated with distinct urinary profile of arsenic metab...
Urinary Proteome Analysis to Exclude Severe Vesicoureteral Reflux
CONCLUSIONS: This noninvasive test is ready for prospective validation in large cohorts with the aim of identifying those children with UTI and hydronephrosis in need of further invasive diagnostics, such as voiding cystourethrography, thus sparing most children without pathologic urinary proteome patterns from additional diagnostics. (Source: PEDIATRICS)
A workplace physical activity program at a public university in Mexico can reduce medical costs associated with type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
CONCLUSIONS: This research meets the call to use health economics methods to re-appraise health priorities, and devise strategies for optimal allocation of financial resources in the health sector. PMID: 22286825 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico)
Optimal cutoff points for the detection of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, hypertension and metabolic syndrome in Mexican adults.
CONCLUSIONS: The measurement of abdominal obesity defined by the IDF was a better screening tool for diabetes and hypertension, considering that initially a high sensitivity and low cost tool at population level is required. PMID: 22286824 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico)
Prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome components in Mexican adults without type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of adults with obesity-related metabolic comorbidities remains undiagnosed in Mexico. PMID: 22286823 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Effect of Duration, Participation Rate, and Supervision During Community Rehabilitation on Functional Outcomes in the First Poststroke Year in Singapore
Abstract: Koh GCHK, Saxena SK, Ng TP, Yong D, Fong NP. Effect of duration, participation rate, and supervision during community rehabilitation on functional outcomes in the first poststroke year in Singapore. Objective: To examine the effect of duration, participation rate, and supervision during community rehabilitation on functional outcome during the first poststroke year. Design: Prospective longitudinal study with interviews at admission, discharge, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge. Setting: Two subacute inpatient rehabilitation units and the community after discharge in Singapore. Participants: Subacute nonaphasic stroke patients (N=215). Intervention: Participation rate in supervised therapy (at an outpatient rehabilitation center) and unsupervised therapy (a...
Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):BR69-75 "Determination of PKC isoform-specific protein expression in pulmonary arteries of rats with chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension"
Conclusions: This study is the first systematic analysis of PKC isoform-specific membrane translocation and protein expression in pulmonary arteries, suggesting that the changes in membrane translocation and protein expression of cPKCalpha, betaI, betaII and nPKCdelta are involved in the development of hypoxia-induced rat PH. (Source: Medical Science Monitor)
Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):CR78-87 "Relation of hs-CRP and BNP levels with the atrial spontaneous echo contrast and thrombi in permanent atrial fibrillation patients with different etiologies"
Conclusions: Higher hs-CRP levels in AF patients may be a predictor for the presence of SEC and thrombi in the atria. (Source: Medical Science Monitor)
Med Sci Monit 2012; 18(2):PH6-11 "How well do anthropometric indices correlate with cardiovascular risk factors? A cross-sectional study in Croati"
Conclusions: Results encourage the use of BMI and WtHR as important tools in predicting CV risk in GP?s practice. (Source: Medical Science Monitor)
Does a reduction in dialysate sodium improve blood pressure control in haemodialysis patients?
Conclusion:? Change in clinical practice, amounting to a modest reduction in dialysate sodium was associated with a reduction not only in pre and postdialysis blood pressures, but also ultrafiltration requirements and symptomatic intradialytic hypotension. However this effect on blood pressure was most marked for older patients and women, within minimal effects for younger patients, and lesser effects for men, suggesting that dialysate sodium reduction alone may help improve blood pressure control, but requires additional factors such as dietary sodium restriction to be effective in younger male patients.© 2012 The Authors. Nephrology © 2012 Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology (Source: Nephrology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Cardiac O-GlcNAc signaling is increased in hypertrophy and heart failure
Reversible protein O-GlcNAc modification has emerged as an essential intracellular signaling system in several tissues, including cardiovascular pathophysiology related to diabetes and acute ischemic stress. We tested the hypothesis that cardiac O-GlcNAc signaling is altered in chronic cardiac hypertrophy and failure of different etiologies. Global protein O-GlcNAcylation and the main enzymes regulating O-GlcNAc, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), O-GlcNAcase (OGA), and glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) were measured by immunoblot and/or real-time RT-PCR analyses of left ventricular tissue from aortic stenosis (AS) patients and rat models of hypertension, myocardial infarction (MI), and aortic banding (AB), with and without failure. We show here that global O-GlcNAcylation wa...
Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension ?Probably Linked? to PFOA Contamination
(Source: EHP-in-Press)
Prevalence of chronic kidney disease and its associated risk factors: the first report from iran using both microalbuminuria and urine sediment.
CONCLUSION: CKD and its main risk factors are common and represent a definite health threat in this region of Iran. Using and standardizing less expensive screening tests in low resource countries could be a good alternative that may improve the outcome through early detection of CKD. PMID: 22292573 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Iranian Medicine)
Resperate: The £7 headset that can keep blood pressure low could help thousands of patients
The device (pictured), which looks like a portable CD player, slows down breathing by playing relaxing music through headphones. But experts warn it should not replace any high blood pressure drugs. (Source: the Mail online | Health)
Hostile Social Interactions May Increase InflammationHostile Social Interactions May Increase Inflammation
Hostile and competitive social interactions may increase proinflammatory cytokine reactivity, a phenomenon that has been linked to hypertension, diabetes, and coronary heart disease. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Early cardiac dysfunction is rescued by upregulation of SERCA2a pump activity in a rat model of metabolic syndrome
ConclusionIn early stage, metabolic syndrome primarily disturbs SERCA2a function in the heart, but consequential hemodynamic dysfunction is prevented by upregulation of SERCA2a protein level, and phosphorylation pathways regulating phospholamban. However, this compensated state is very vulnerable to a further decline in SERCA2a function. (Source: Acta Physiologica)
Natural language processing in EMRs can improve disease tracking
Source: Jaan Sidorov, KevinMD Content: “Years ago, if you were elderly, had diabetes, high blood pressure, low back pain, needed a yearly flu shot and came to see this electronic health record-enabled physician (now with the nom de plume ?Disease Management Care Blog?), you would have had your diabetes, high blood pressure and low back [...] (Source: ICMCC: The International Council on Medical and Care Compunetics)
Does Obesity Cause Pain?
Title: Does Obesity Cause Pain?Category: Health NewsCreated: 1/31/2012 11:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Risks of pregnancy via egg donation similar for women over age 50 as for younger women
(Columbia University Medical Center) Although women over age 50 who become pregnant via egg donation are at an elevated risk for developing obstetrical complications, their complication rates are similar to those of younger recipients, according to a study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers to be published in the February 2012 issue of the American Journal of Perinatology. This is contrary to epidemiological data suggesting that these women are at greater risk of certain complications of pregnancy, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, and placenta abnormalities. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)
Thiopental dose requirements for induction of anaesthesia and subsequent endotracheal intubation in patients with complete spinal cord injuries
ConclusionsThese results suggest that the dose requirements of thiopental for induction of general anaesthesia and subsequent tracheal intubation are reduced in the SCI patients. (Source: Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Increased arterial smooth muscle Ca2+ signaling, vasoconstriction, and myogenic reactivity in Milan hypertensive rats
The Milan hypertensive strain (MHS) rats are a genetic model of hypertension with adducin gene polymorphisms linked to enhanced renal tubular Na+ reabsorption. Recently we demonstrated that Ca2+ signaling is augmented in freshly isolated mesenteric artery myocytes from MHS rats. This is associated with greatly enhanced expression of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-1 (NCX1), C-type transient receptor potential (TRPC6) protein, and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2) compared with arteries from Milan normotensive strain (MNS) rats. Here, we test the hypothesis that the enhanced Ca2+ signaling in MHS arterial smooth muscle is directly reflected in augmented vasoconstriction [myogenic and phenylephrine (PE)-evoked responses] in isolated mesenteric small arteries. Systolic blood pressure was h...
Autophagy mechanism of right ventricular remodeling in murine model of pulmonary artery constriction
Although right ventricular failure (RVF) is the hallmark of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), the mechanism of RVF is unclear. Development of PAH-induced RVF is associated with an increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Increases in oxidative stress lead to generation of nitro-tyrosine residues in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) and liberate active matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs). To test the hypothesis that an imbalance in MMP-to-TIMP ratio leads to interstitial fibrosis and RVF and whether the treatment with folic acid (FA) alleviates ROS generation, maintains MMP/TIMP balance, and regresses interstitial fibrosis, we used a mouse model of pulmonary artery constriction (PAC). After surgery mice were given FA in their drinking water (0.03 g/l) for 4 wk. Produ...
PVN adenovirus-siRNA injections silencing either NOX2 or NOX4 attenuate aldosterone/NaCl-induced hypertension in mice
Mineralocorticoid excess increases superoxide production by activating NADPH oxidase (NOX), and intracerebroventricular infusions of NADPH oxidase inhibitors attenuate aldosterone (Aldo)/salt-induced hypertension. It has been hypothesized that increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain may be a key mechanism in the development of hypertension. The present study investigated the brain regional specificity of NADPH oxidase and the role of NOX2 and NOX4 NADPH oxidase subunits in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in Aldo/salt-induced hypertension. PVN injections of adenoviral vectors expressing small interfering (si)RNA targeting NOX2 (AdsiRNA-NOX2) or NOX4 (AdsiRNA-NOX4) mRNAs were used to knock down NOX2 and NOX4 proteins. Three days later, delivery of Aldo (0.2 mg&mid...
Time-dependent changes in autonomic control of splanchnic vascular resistance and heart rate in ANG II-salt hypertension
Previous studies suggest that ANG II-induced hypertension in rats fed a high-salt (HS) diet (ANG II-salt hypertension) has a neurogenic component dependent on an enhanced sympathetic tone to the splanchnic veins and independent from changes in sympathetic nerve activity to the kidney or hind limb. The purpose of this study was to extend these findings and test whether altered autonomic control of splanchnic resistance arteries and the heart also contributes to the neurogenic component. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), superior mesenteric artery blood flow, and mesenteric vascular resistance (MVR) were measured during 4 control days, 14 days of ANG II delivered subcutaneously (150 ng·kg–1·min–1), and 4 days of recovery in conscious rats fed a HS (2% N...
Angiotensin-(1-7) attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac remodeling associated with upregulation of dual-specificity phosphatase 1
In this study, saline- or ANG II-infused rats were treated with ANG-(1–7) to determine whether the heptapeptide reduces myocyte hypertrophy in vivo and to identify the signaling pathways involved in the process. ANG II infusion into normotensive rats elevated systolic blood pressure >50 mmHg, in association with increased myocyte cross-sectional area, ventricular atrial natriuretic peptide mRNA, and ventricular brain natriuretric peptide mRNA. Although infusion with ANG-(1–7) had no effect on the ANG II-stimulated elevation in blood pressure, the heptapeptide hormone significantly reduced the ANG II-mediated increase in myocyte cross-sectional area, interstitial fibrosis, and natriuretic peptide mRNAs. ANG II increased phospho-ERK1 and phospho-ERK2, whereas cotreatment with ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Enhanced catabolism to acetaldehyde in rostral ventrolateral medullary neurons accounts for the pressor effect of ethanol in spontaneously hypertensive rats
In this study, evidence was sought to implicate the oxidative breakdown of ethanol in this strain-dependent hypertensive action of ethanol. Biochemical experiments revealed significantly higher catalase activity and similar aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in the RVLM of SHRs compared with WKY rats. We also investigated the influence of pharmacological inhibition of catalase (3-aminotriazole) or ALDH (cyanamide) on the cardiovascular effects of intra-RVLM ethanol or its metabolic product acetaldehyde in conscious rats. Compared with vehicle, ethanol (10 μg/rat) elicited a significant increase in blood pressure in SHRs that lasted for the 60-min observation period but had no effect on blood pressure in WKY rats. The first oxidation product, acetaldehyde, played a critical role in e...
Blockage of the afferent sensitive pathway prevents sympathetic atrophy and hemodynamic alterations in rat portal hypertension
ConclusionThese results indicate that the nervous system has a central role in the genesis of the circulatory abnormalities of portal hypertension, and support that mesenteric sympathetic atrophy contributes to splanchnic arterial vasodilation. (Source: Liver International)
Elevated Blood Pressure is Associated with Rarefaction of the Retinal Vasculature in Children [Clinical and Epidemiologic Research]
Conclusions. Higher blood pressure in children is associated with smaller retinal Df, reflecting rarefaction of the retinal microvasculature. Retinal fractal analysis detects early subtle microvascular effects of elevated blood pressure, and may further the understanding of the genesis of ocular and systemic vascular complications of hypertension. (Source: Investigative Ophthalmology)
Could the ?Cochin risk prediction score? be applied in daily practice to predict pulmonary hypertension in systemic sclerosis?
(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)
Effects of non contact low?frequency ultrasound on healing of suspected deep tissue injury: a retrospective analysis
The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of non contact low?frequency ultrasound on the healing of suspected deep tissue injury (SDTI). Participants were adults ranging in age from 28 to 93 years old, with multiple diagnoses including anaemia, diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Data were examined retrospectively on 85 patients (intervention group = 43 and non intervention group = 42) with 127 SDTI (intervention group = 64 and non intervention group = 63). Participants in both groups received standard of care for treating pressure ulcers. A severity score was used to assess SDTI severity before treatment and healing/progression after treatment. This scale measures surface area, wound colour/tissue assessment, and skin integrity with potential scores of 3 to 18 (higher sc...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Behavioural Modification of the Cholinergic Anti?inflammatory Response to C?Reactive Protein in Patients with Hypertension
Conclusions:? Changes in hsCRP were consistent with the inhibitory effect of increased vagal efferent activity on pro?inflammatory factors predicted by the cholinergic anti?inflammatory reflex model. Clinical trials for patients with cardiovascular dysfunction are warranted to assess whether behavioural interventions can contribute independently to the chronic regulation of inflammatory activity and to improved clinical outcomes. (Source: Journal of Internal Medicine)
Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction
It has been known for more than 60 years, and suspected for over 100, that alveolar hypoxia causes pulmonary vasoconstriction by means of mechanisms local to the lung. For the last 20 years, it has been clear that the essential sensor, transduction, and effector mechanisms responsible for hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) reside in the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell. The main focus of this review is the cellular and molecular work performed to clarify these intrinsic mechanisms and to determine how they are facilitated and inhibited by the extrinsic influences of other cells. Because the interaction of intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms is likely to shape expression of HPV in vivo, we relate results obtained in cells to HPV in more intact preparations, such as intact and isol...
Impact of preoperative Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use on clinical outcomes after cardiac surgery.
CONCLUSIONS: We found no association between preoperative ACEi therapy and adverse in-hospital outcomes or long-term survival after CABG. Preoperative ACEi therapy appears to be safe in patients undergoing CABG. PMID: 22269723 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery)
Type B aortic dissection after the use of tadalafil.
This report and three other cases add a new dimension to the known predisposing factors such as chronic systemic hypertension, hereditary connective tissue diseases- and congenital aortic valve diseases. However, the precise role of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the pathophysiology of aortic dissection remains unknown. PMID: 22269733 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery)
A Better Option for Patients With TGA/VSD and Severe Pulmonary Hypertension Undergoing Palliative Arterial Switch Operation.
Authors: Lui RC, Zhuang J, Lei BF PMID: 22269750 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Long?term low?dose maintenance pegylated interferon may prevent decompensation in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension: Are we there yet?
(Source: Hepatology)
Two-Arm Blood Pressure Checks May Spot "Silent" Risks
A new study appears to support the idea that blood pressure checks should be done in both arms. Researchers at the University of Exeter Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (PCMD) in the UK reviewed evidence covering differences in systolic blood pressure between arms and found it could be a useful way to spot elevated risk of vascular disease and even death in cases that might otherwise be "clinically silent". Findings of the systematic review and meta-analysis are published online in The Lancet on 30 January... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Drug Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer
Title: Drug Approved for Advanced Kidney CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/27/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/30/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms Could Signal Heart Risk
Title: Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms Could Signal Heart RiskCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/29/2012 8:05:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/30/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Lumbar peritoneal shunt in idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
CONCLUSION: LP shunt is safe and effective in IIH. Results in terms of improvement in vision were better in good pre operatively vision group. PMID: 22274966 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Turkish Neurosurgery)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Difference in arm blood pressure indicator of vascular disease
Blood pressure in both arms should be measured as routine, say authorsRelated items from OnMedicaGovernment plans new CVD strategyYellow patches on eyelids marker for heart diseaseRecurrent stroke more likely at very low BPTight blood pressure control can save kidneysAdherence training helps cut high blood pressure (Source: OnMedica Latest News)
Cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist ameliorates mesenteric angiogenesis and portosystemic collaterals in cirrhotic rats
Conclusions: CB2 agonist alleviates portal hypertension, severity of portosystemic collaterals and mesenteric angiogenesis, intrahepatic angiogenesis and fibrosis in cirrhotic rats. The mechanism is, at least partly, through COX and NOS down?regulation. Cannabinoids may be targeted in the control of portal hypertension and portosystemic collaterals. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)
Living and dying well with end?stage liver disease: Time for palliative care?
(Source: Hepatology)
The therapeutic effect of Rosuvastatin on cardiac remodeling from hypertrophy to fibrosis during the end?stage hypertension in rats
ConclusionThe present study revealed that old?aged SHRs developed cardiac remodeling from hypertrophy to fibrosis via cardiac apoptosis during the end stage of hypertensive heart disease. These pathological changes might be the consequence of activation of AT1 Receptor?PKC?2/??ERK?c?fos and AKT?FOXO1/Bcl?2/survivin/Caspase3 signaling. Rosuvastatin effectively attenuated the structural changes by reversing the signaling transductions involved.© 2012 The Authors Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine © 2012 Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine/Blackwell Publishing Ltd (Source: Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine)
Diabetes Lifestyle Changes
Did you know that lifestyle changes are more powerful than medications?  In addition, diabetes is a disease that is not made up of just one symptom (high blood sugar).  We often deal with high triglycerides, high blood pressure, high insulin levels, and other conditions. Each symptom or associated condition of diabetes could be treated with different medications, but lifestyle changes could bring sweeping changes across the board.  Granted, lifestyle changes may not be enough for everyone.  However, it doesn't hurt to give them a try. Read about Diabetes Lifestyle Changes that could change your life.Diabetes Lifestyle Changes originally appeared on About.com Diabetes on Monday, January 30th, 2012 at 03:48:00.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About Diabetes)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Do Drug Warnings and Market Withdrawals Have an Impact on the Number of Calls to Teratogen Information Services?
PharmacopsychiatryDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1297974IMAGe provides information on risks and benefits of medication use during pregnancy and lactationThe aim of this study was to determine the impact of Health Canada warnings on the number of calls received at IMAGe.We analyzed calls received between January 2003 and March 2008. The impact of the following warning/withdrawal were studied: paroxetine and risk of cardiac malformations (09/29/2005), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) (03/10/2006), and impact of rofecoxib market withdrawal (09/30/2004). Interrupted auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) analyses were used to test the impact of each warning on the number of calls received to IMAGe.61?505...
Intracranial Hemorrhage: Diagnosis and Management
This article addresses the diagnosis and general management of ICH and discusses specialized management for select ICH subtypes. (Source: Neurologic Clinics)
Head and Spinal Cord Injury: Diagnosis and Management
This article reviews aspects of management of traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. A discussion of management of intracranial pressure after traumatic brain injury is followed by a discourse on cerebrovascular trauma and pediatric injuries. Specific management methods are discussed, including medical and surgical management in intracranial hypertension. A special attempt is made to include the current recommendations for management of brain and spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries are discussed in the final section. With an increasing number of patients surviving after devastating spinal cord injuries, the special issues in their management are evaluated. (Source: Neurologic Clinics)
Brain Bleeds High in Expectant Blacks, Hypertensives (CME/CE)
(MedPage Today) -- African-American women and women who develop hypertension are at risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with pregnancy, a retrospective study found. (Source: MedPage Today Geriatrics)
Evaluation of the Dose-Response Relationship of Amlodipine and Losartan Combination in Patients with Essential Hypertension: An 8-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Factorial, Phase II, Multicenter Study
(Source: American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Laryngoscopy in conscious patients with remifentanil: how useful is an ?awake look??
Conclusions: Using remifentanil as the sole analgesic allows evaluation of the larynx with direct laryngoscopy in a conscious patient. A poor Cormack-Lehane grade in a conscious patient may or may not improve with general anesthesia. (Source: Journal of Clinical Anesthesia)
Effects of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers on Endothelial?Nitric Oxide Release ? The Role of eNOS Variants
Conclusions:? The ARBs differentially enhanced NO release in ECs in a manner influenced by eNOS single nucleotide polymorphisms. These findings provide new insights into the effects of ARBs on EC?dependent vasodilation and eNOS function.© 2012 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology © 2012 The British Pharmacological Society (Source: British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology)
Is Hyperuricemia the Missing Piece in the Metabolic Syndrome Puzzle?
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Trial ReportPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11906-012-0249-8Authors Zohreh Soltani, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1542 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USAEfrain Reisin, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1542 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA Journal Current Hypertension ReportsOnline ISSN 1534-3111Print ISSN 1522-6417 (Source: Current Hypertension Reports)
Dialysate Sodium Concentration and the Association with Interdialytic Weight Gain, Hospitalization, and Mortality
This analysis of observational DOPPS data examined the impact of reduced dialysate sodium on clinical outcomes. While lowering dialysate sodium was associated with lower interdialytic weight gain, it was also associated with increased hospitalization. No mortality benefit was associated with reduced dialysate sodium. : Fatal and Nonfatal Outcomes, Incidence of Hypertension, and Blood Pressure Changes in Relation to Urinary Sodium Excretion Sodium Bicarbonate for the Prevention of Contrast Induced-Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Long Interdialytic Interval and Mortality among Patients Receiving Hemodialysis (Source: Nephrology Now)
Fatal idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis in association with pregnancy ? Medico-legal evaluation
Abstract: Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis is a rare disorder characterised by repeated episodes of intra-alveolar bleeding in association with consecutive anaemia, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and respiratory failure. Pregnancy may exacerbate the symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis typically worsening in the third trimester. A 32-year-old female after delivery was admitted to hospital with progressive dyspnoea of about 1-month duration. Sudden circulatory collapse caused fatal complication. During the post-mortem investigation, lung haemorrhage and histologically abundant iron deposition in macrophages and interstitial fibrosis were found. Medico-legal post-mortem evaluation of fatal cases may support the clinico-pathological context of the diagnosis of this e...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Erratum to: Influence of Telmisartan on Insulin Response after Glucose Loading in Obese Patients with Hypertension: ARB Trial of Hypertension in Obese Patients with Hyperinsulinemia Assessed by Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (ATHLETE).
Authors: Mori Y, Tanaka T, Matsuura K, Yokoyama J, Utsunomiya K PMID: 22287086 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Advances in Therapy)
Strategies for Reducing Maternal Mortality
The maternal death rate in the United States has shown no improvement in several decades and may be increasing. On the other hand, hospital systems that have instituted comprehensive programs directed at the prevention of maternal mortality have demonstrated rates that are half of the national average. These programs have emphasized the reduction of variability in the provision of care through the use of standard protocols, reliance on checklists instead of memory for critical processes, and an approach to peer review that emphasizes systems change. In addition, elimination of a small number of repetitive errors in the management of hypertension, postpartum hemorrhage, pulmonary embolism, and cardiac disease will contribute significantly to a reduction in maternal mortality. Attention to t...
Maternal Mortality From Preeclampsia/Eclampsia
Preeclampsia/eclampsia is one of the 3 leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. During the past 50 years, there has been a significant reduction in the rates of eclampsia, maternal mortality, and maternal morbidity in the developed countries. In contrast, the rates of eclampsia, maternal complications, and maternal mortality remain high in the developing countries. These differences are mainly due to universal access to prenatal care, access to timely care, and proper management of patients with preeclampsia?eclampsia in the developed countries. In contrast, most of maternal deaths and complications are due to lack of prenatal care, lack of access to hospital care, lack of resources, and inappropriate diagnosis and management of patients with preeclampsia?eclampsia...
Video: HealthPop: Narcissism, pessimism and pain
Narcissists are at a greater risk for high blood pressure and heart problems; Also, men with higher levels of lead are more likely to be pessimistic; And, women consistently report higher levels of pain than men. CBSNews.com's Nick Dietz has the details. (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Risk Factors In Pregnant Women
Approximately 1 in every 15,000 pregnant women will develop subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - bleeding in the area between the brain and the thin membranes that cover the brain, according to a study published in the February issue of Anesthesiology. The researchers found that: the most common risk factor for pregnancy-related SAH is high-blood pressure disorders its incidence is elevated in pregnant women ruptured aneurysms play a less important role in pregnant patients than non-pregnant patients with SHA Lead researcher Brian T. Bateman, M.D... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Towards understanding seasonal variability in cervical artery dissection (CeAD)
Abstract  Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) occurs more often in autumn or winter than in spring or summer. We searched for clinical variables associated with this seasonality by comparing CeAD patients with onset of symptoms in autumn?winter (September 22?March 21) versus those with first CeAD symptom in spring?summer (March 22?September 21). We performed a cross-sectional study using data from the multicenter CADISP (Cervical Artery Dissection and Ischemic Stroke Patients) registry. Age- and sex-matched patients with ischemic stroke attributable to a cause other than CeAD (non-CeAD patients) were analyzed to study the specificity of our findings. Autumn?winter CeAD patients had a higher median brachial pulse pressure at admission (55 vs. 52 mmHg; p =&nb...
Intraoperative MRI and endocrinological outcome of transsphenoidal surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma
Conclusion  The use of iMRI in transsphenoidal surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma might lead to higher total resection rates. In our series, resection of remnants detected by iMRI was neither associated with higher incidences of postoperative hypopituitarism nor with lower recovery rates of pituitary axes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00701-012-1285-5Authors Sven Berkmann, Department of Neurosurgery, Kantonsspital Aarau, Tellstrasse, 5001 Aarau, SwitzerlandJavier Fandino, Department of Neurosurgery, Kantonsspital Aarau, Tellstrasse, 5001 Aarau, SwitzerlandBeat Müller, Medical University Clinic, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, SwitzerlandLuca Remonda, Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Kantonsspit...
Bariatric Surgery: Effects on the Metabolic Complications of Obesity
Abstract  Bariatric surgery is increasing at an enormous rate in all countries but the indications for the operation on the basis of metabolic derangements are not clear, as only one controlled randomized trial specifically for a comorbidity has been performed. Thus, it is not clear if bariatric surgery should be offered to all obese patients with long standing type 2 diabetes or poorly controlled hypertension or hypertriglyceridemia, even though these conditions clearly respond in most patients to bariatric surgery and weight loss. It would appear that patients with early type 2 diabetes with reasonable control and a greater body mass index gain more benefit from the operation. More randomized trials are required. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Coronary Heart Dis...
Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds
Upbeat thoughts plus education boosted adherence among blacks with high blood pressure, study found (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry)
Urinary Bisphenol A and Hypertension in a Multiethnic Sample of US Adults
Conclusions. Urinary BPA levels are associated with hypertension, independent of traditional risk factors. (Source: Comparative and Functional Genomics)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds
Upbeat thoughts plus education boosted adherence among blacks with high blood pressure, study found Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: African-American Health, High Blood Pressure, Medicines (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)
A giant true aneurysm of the celiac trunk
A 80-year-old man was admitted to our department because of an arterial dilatation into the abdomen recorded during a routine ultrasound scan. His medical history was notable for smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and atrial fibrillation in anticoagulant therapy. The patient never underwent abdominal surgery and he was asymptomatic for abdominal pain. (Source: Journal of Vascular Surgery)
Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their Meds
Title: Positive Reinforcement May Help Patients Take Their MedsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/27/2012 10:05:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/27/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Hypertension, Diabetes, and Kidney Disease: Predicting Serious Kidney Problems
(Source: Consultant Live)
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study of AMG 386 Combined With Weekly Paclitaxel in Patients With Recurrent Ovarian Cancer [Gynecologic Cancer]
Conclusion AMG 386 combined with weekly paclitaxel was tolerable, with a manageable and distinct toxicity profile. The data suggest evidence of antitumor activity and a dose-response effect, warranting further studies in ovarian cancer. (Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Bevacizumab and irinotecan in children with recurrent or refractory brain tumors: Toxicity and efficacy trends
ConclusionBevacizumab?related acute toxicity appears to be low in children, even in combination with irinotecan. Further prospective trials are required to confirm the hypothetical efficacy of bevacizumab and to assess the risk of long?term toxicity especially in the youngest children. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Pediatric Blood and Cancer)
The flavonoid MonoHER prevents monocrotaline?induced hepatic sinusoidal injury in rats
ConclusionsMonoHER prevented MCT induced portal hypertension and hepatic injury in rats. J. Surg. Oncol © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Surgical Oncology)
Ambulatory arterial stiffness indices and target organ damage in hypertension
Background: The present study was designed to evaluate which arterial stiffness parameter - AASI or the home arterial stiffness index (HASI) - correlates best with vascular, cardiac and renal damage in hypertensive individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 258 hypertensive patients. AASI and HASI were defined as the 1-regression slope of diastolic over systolic blood pressure readings obtained from 24-hour recordings and home blood pressure over 6 days. Renal damage was evaluated by glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and microalbuminuria; vascular damage by carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), pulse wave velocity (PWV) and ankle/brachial index (ABI); and left ventricular hypertrophy by the Cornell voltage-duration product (VDP) and the Novacode index. Results: ...
Comparative analysis of adverse drug reactions to cyclines: results of a French national survey and review of the literature
Conclusions:? In the absence of markedly better efficacy against the various cycline indications, the minocycline benefit/risk ratio was clearly lower than that of doxycycline, and possibly those of lymecycline and metacycline. In light of these findings, minocycline should no longer be considered first?line therapy for inflammatory skin disorders, especially acne. (Source: British Journal of Dermatology)
Midkine and the kidney: health and diseases
Midkine (MK; gene name, Mdk), a heparin-binding growth factor, regulates cell growth, cell survival, migration and anti-apoptotic activity in nephrogenesis and development. In the kidney, MK is expressed mainly in proximal tubular epithelial cells and is induced by oxidative stress through the activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α. The pathophysiological roles of MK are diverse, ranging from the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) to progression of chronic kidney disease, often accompanied by hypertension, renal ischemia and diabetic nephropathy. In particular, hypertension has indispensable implications for various vascular diseases, including cardiovascular and renal disorders. Mdk+/+ mice exhibited marked hypertension in renal ablation model compared with Mdk–/&ndash...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Outcome of the living kidney donor
Renal transplantation from living kidney donors is still relatively marginal in most of the European countries. However, this source of kidney grafts may help to overcome in part the organ donor shortage of cadaveric donors. The living donor strategy implies correct and objective information about donation risks and completely free acceptance of the living candidate of the donation. In this paper, we reviewed the consequences of kidney donation on the living donor health, considering very short term (linked to the surgery), short term (effect of nephrectomy on glomerular filtration rate) and long term (risk of mortality, chronic kidney disease, proteinuria and hypertension) consequences of kidney donation. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)
Angiotensin II receptor blocker pretreatment of rats undergoing sudden renal ablation
Conclusions. These studies dissociated systemic hypertension and proteinuria from the renal lesions in this model. Durable effects of losartan on blood pressure and proteinuria likely represent epigenetic processes. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism A1298C (Glu429Ala) predicts decline in renal function over time in the African-American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK) Trial and Veterans Affairs Hypertension Cohort (VAHC)
Conclusion. We conclude that the MTHFR-coding polymorphism at A1298C is associated with renal decline in African-Americans with hypertensive nephrosclerosis and is supported by a veteran cohort with a primary care diagnosis of hypertension. Further investigation is needed to confirm such findings and to determine what molecular mechanism may contribute to this association. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)
Higher hemoglobin level is associated with subtle declines in renal function and presence of cardiorenal risk factors in early CKD stages
Conclusion. Hemoglobin concentration may be slightly higher across subtle declines in renal function and the presence of cardiorenal risk factors in early CKD stages. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)
Is N-terminal probrain-type natriuretic peptide a clinically useful biomarker of volume overload in peritoneal dialysis patients?
Conclusion. In this cross-sectional study, although NTproBNP was associated with residual renal function, cardiac hypertrophy, volume overload and inflammation on simple univariate analysis, on further examination NTproBNP was predominantly affected by factors associated with volume overload, and these results require confirmation in a prospective study. (Source: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Pulmonary arterial hypertension: an update.
Authors: Correale M, Montrone D, Ieva R, Di Biase M PMID: 22282332 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Netherlands Heart Journal)
Scavenging of NADPH Oxidase-derived Superoxide Anions Improves Depressed Baroreflex Sensitivity in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats.
Authors: Guimarães DD, Carvalho CC, Braga VA Abstract 1. In pathological conditions such as hypertension, there is impairment in the autonomic control of blood pressure resulting in changes in baroreflex sensitivity. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that acute superoxide scavenging would restore the depressed baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). 2. Male 10-week-old SHR (n=14) and their controls (WKY, n=14) underwent femoral artery and vein catheterization for conscious blood pressure recording and drug administration. BRS was obtained by the drug-induced method using phenylephrine (8 ?g/Kg, i.v.) and sodium nitroprusside (25 ?g/Kg, i.v.) before and after the administration of tiron (30 mg/Kg, i.v.), a superoxide dismutase mimetic, o...
Diabetes Mellitus in Centenarians
ConclusionDiabetes mellitus is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality but is seen in persons who live into very old age. Aside from higher rates of anemia and use of more medications, few clinical correlates of DM were observed in centenarians. (Source: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society)
Physical Health Conditions Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in U.S. Older Adults: Results from Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions
ConclusionOlder adults with lifetime PTSD have high rates of several physical health conditions, many of which are chronic disorders of aging, and poorer physical functioning. Older adults with lifetime partial PTSD have higher rates of gastritis, angina pectoris, and arthritis and poorer physical functioning. (Source: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society)
How can you mend a broken heart?
Diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking. These have long been recognized as major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Now, a study just published in the New England Journal of Medicine starkly demonstrates just how significantly these factors increase a person?s risk of stroke or heart attack. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Near-miss maternal mortality: cardiac dysfunction as the principal cause of obstetric intensive care unit admissions.
CONCLUSION: : In this obstetric population, the leading reason for ICU admissions was cardiac disease. The increasing prevalence of advanced maternal age, congenital heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension among women who are of childbearing age may be contributing factors. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: : III. PMID: 22270275 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Subclinical thyroid disease and the incidence of hypertension in pregnancy.
CONCLUSION: : Women with subclinical hypothyroidism identified during pregnancy have an increased risk for severe preeclampsia when compared with euthyroid women. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: : II. PMID: 22270283 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Maternal cardiac disease: update for the clinician.
Authors: Simpson LL Abstract Heart disease complicates more than 1% of pregnancies and is now the leading cause of indirect maternal deaths. The spectrum and severity of heart disease observed in reproductive-aged women is changing. Today, congenital heart disease accounts for more than half of cardiac disease in pregnancy, and ischemic heart disease is on the rise as a result of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and delayed childbearing. Pregnancy is still contraindicated in women with pulmonary hypertension, severe systemic ventricular dysfunction, dilated aortopathy, and severe left-sided obstructive lesions, but advances in medical and surgical management have resulted in an increasing number of patients with congenital heart defects reaching childbearing age who are interested ...
Practice bulletin no. 125: chronic hypertension in pregnancy.
Practice bulletin no. 125: chronic hypertension in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Feb;119(2 Pt 1):396 Authors: PMID: 22270315 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Spleno-parametrial ectopic varices: an unusual porto-systemic shunt in portal hypertension.
CONCLUSION: : Unrecognized portal hypertension and resultant porto-systemic shunts may mask themselves as vascular masses and result in catastrophic surgical outcomes if not fully characterized preoperatively. PMID: 22270437 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Pure Motor Monoparesis in the Leg due to a Lateral Medullary Infarction
A 76-year-old man with essential hypertension abruptly presented with slight left-sided leg weakness, despite normal strength in the other extremities. Left-sided Babinski's reflex was detected. There were no other neurologic abnormalities. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a small infarction in the lower lateral medulla oblongata on the left side. Cranial magnetic resonance angiography demonstrated an absence of flow of the left vertebral artery. He became asymptomatic within 10 days under intravenous antiplatelet agent. The corticospinal tract fibers innervating the lower extremity caudal to the pyramidal decussation might be involved. We emphasize that this is a first reported case of pure motor monoparesis in the leg due to lateral medullary infarction. (Source: Advan...
Massive decline in deadly heart attacks
Conclusion The strengths of this study lie in its very large size and its complete national coverage. One possible limitation is its reliance on the accuracy of routine data and diagnosis codes used from English hospitals, although, as the authors point out, research has shown high accuracy rates for this type of hospital data. It should be noted that although the study shows a fall in heart attacks and also in death rates among heart attack patients, it does not tell us the precise causes of either. The fall in heart attacks is likely to be linked to healthier lifestyles, earlier detection and a better management of risk factors such as high blood pressure in people at risk. Also, the study only examined deaths from heart attacks and the definition of this has changed over the years, so t...
Diet Soft Drink Consumption is Associated with an Increased Risk of Vascular Events in the Northern Manhattan Study
CONCLUSIONS  Daily diet soft drink consumption was associated with several vascular risk factors and with an increased risk for vascular events. Further research is needed before any conclusions can be made regarding the potential health consequences of diet soft drink consumption. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11606-011-1968-2Authors Hannah Gardener, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Clinical Research Building, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136, USATatjana Rundek, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Clinical Research Building, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136, USAMatthew Marke...
Diabetes and Hypertension: Is There a Common Metabolic Pathway?
Abstract  Diabetes and hypertension frequently occur together. There is substantial overlap between diabetes and hypertension in etiology and disease mechanisms. Obesity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance are thought to be the common pathways. Recent advances in the understanding of these pathways have provided new insights and perspectives. Physical activity plays an important protective role in the two diseases. Knowing the common causes and disease mechanisms allows a more effective and proactive approach in their prevention and treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Coronary Heart Disease (J Farmer, Section Editor)Pages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11883-012-0227-2Authors Bernard M. Y. Cheung, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokful...
Cystinuria: mechanisms and management
Abstract  Cystinuria is a relatively uncommon cause of pediatric stone disease, but has significant morbidity if not properly controlled because of its significant stone recurrence rate. Cystinuria is caused by the inability of the renal tubules to reabsorb filtered cystine, which is poorly soluble at a typical urine pH <7. Although many advances have been made in the understanding of the genetic and physiological basis of cystinuria, the cornerstones of treatment still involve stone prevention with dietary measures and pharmacological therapy, coupled with surgical interventions for stone removal. Pharmacological treatments can carry significant side effects that must be monitored and can limit therapy as well as impede compliance. Most patients will require surgical in...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Aliskiren: A Potential Antiarrhythmic Drug?
(Source: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension)
Study: Optimal heart health starts early
People who reach midlife without developing high blood pressure or diabetes are much less likely to have a heart attack or stroke by age 80. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)
Baroreflex Activation Therapy and Resistant Hypertension: Randomization Is Not Enough, You Should Measure Blood Pressure Appropriately
We read with interest the elegantly written paper by Bisognano et al. () relating to the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled Rheos Pivotal Trial, which demonstrated that over the long-term, baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) can safely reduce systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with resistant hypertension. (Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology)
Reply
We thank Dr. Tsioufis and colleagues for their recent letter regarding the Rheos Pivotal Trial (). We provide the following clarifications based on their original comments. 1. Was blood pressure (BP) adequately characterized in the Rheos Pivotal Trial? The BpTRU (BpTRU Medical Devices, Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada) repeated-measures protocol () was used throughout the trial to measure BP. BpTRU was selected for its correlation with and low bias in estimating daytime ambulatory BP (). Trial qualification requirements summarized in our paper are correct but incomplete: systolic blood pressure (SBP) ?160 mm Hg according to the BpTRU protocol was mandatory, along with 2 office cuff readings of SBP ?160 mm Hg within 3 months of enrollment. Resistant hypertension was assured by requi...
Hypertensive Drug Compliance Improves With Positive Affirmation In African-Americans
African-American patients with high blood pressure follow their medication regimen more effectively with a combination of positive affirmations and patient education, concludes a study published Online First in the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. In comparison to white people, African-Americans are disproportionately affected by hypertension. The authors state in the background information of the article, that a poorly adhered to medication regimen tends to explain poor blood pressure control, which can lead to cardiovascular problems and death... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Children With A Genetic Variation Who Are Prescribed Antipsychotics At Increased Risk Of Metabolic Side Effects
Researchers have found a genetic variation predisposing children to six-times greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome when taking second-generation anti-psychotic medications. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The study showed a close association with two conditions in particular: high blood pressure and elevated fasting blood sugar levels, which is a precursor to diabetes. The research is published in the medical research journal Translational Psychiatry... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Active Ingredient in Viagra Shrunk Disfiguring Growths in Kids
Title: Active Ingredient in Viagra Shrunk Disfiguring Growths in KidsCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/25/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Optimal Heart Health Starts Early: Study
Title: Optimal Heart Health Starts Early: StudyCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/25/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Avastin May Help Fight Early Breast Cancer
Title: Avastin May Help Fight Early Breast CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/26/2012 11:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)
Mild Memory Problems May Be More Common in Men
Title: Mild Memory Problems May Be More Common in MenCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/26/2012 11:01:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/26/2012 (Source: MedicineNet High Blood Pressure General)<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Find the best <a href="http://www.januarysales.org/" target="_blank">January Sales</a> in the UK.</p></div>
Laparoscopic splenectomy and azygoportal disconnection with intraoperative splenic blood salvage
Conclusion  Laparoscopic splenectomy with azygoportal disconnection is a feasible, effective, and safe surgical method for the treatment of bleeding portal hypertension. Intraoperative splenic blood salvage can avoid the risk associated with allogeneic transfusion during the procedure, with an advantage of significantly increased postoperative hemoglobin levels. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00464-012-2159-xAuthors Yuedong Wang, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Shangtang Rd, Hangzhou, 310014 ChinaYun Ji, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Shangtang Rd, Hangzhou, 310014 ChinaYangwen Zhu, Department of General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People?s Hospital, 158 Sha...
Automated-auscultatory (Hybrid) sphygmomanometers for clinic blood pressure measurement: a suitable substitute to mercury sphygmomanometer as reference standard?
Automated-auscultatory (Hybrid) sphygmomanometers for clinic blood pressure measurement: a suitable substitute to mercury sphygmomanometer as reference standard? Journal of Human Hypertension advance online publication, January 26, 2012. doi:10.1038/jhh.2011.119 Authors: G Parati & J E Ochoa (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Relationship between inflammation and microalbuminuria in prehypertension
Authors: J F Navarro-González, C Mora, M Muros, J García, J Donate & V Cazaña (Source: Journal of Human Hypertension)
Increased immunohistochemical expression of YKL-40 in the spleen of patients with portal hypertension.
Authors: Wang D, Lu JG, Wang Q, Du XL, Dong R, Wang P, Zhao L, Jiang X, Yuan LJ PMID: 22267006 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Braz J Med Biol Res)
Primary Aldosteronism: Are We Missing the Wood for the Trees?
Horm Metab ResDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1301281The prevalence of primary aldosteronism (PA) is around 10% of hypertensives, with markedly increased risk of cardiovascular damage compared with age-, sex- and BP-matched essential hypertension (EH). Currently, if hypertension is present in 20% of the population, PA will account for 2%; of these PA patients only 1% are ever screened, let alone diagnosed and treated, and the remaining 99% suboptimally treated, if at all. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists are effective in lowering BP, uniquely vasoprotective and safe when titrated to effect in EH. In resistant hypertension (BP elevated despite 3 or more conventional agents, including a diuretic), which constitutes 20?30% of EH, addition of a low dose MR antagonist reproducibly produces BP ...<div id="medworm"><p><b><i>MedWorm Sponsor Message:</i></b> Please support the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/" target="_blank">Doctors In Chains</a> campaign for the <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">medics</a> tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in <a href="http://www.doctorsinchains.org/">Bahrain</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23FreeDoctors">#FreeDoctors</a></p></div>
Sulforaphane Inhibits Mitotic Clonal Expansion During Adipogenesis Through Cell Cycle Arrest.
In this study, the inhibitory effect of sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate, on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells was investigated. Sulforaphane decreased the accumulation of lipid droplets stained with Oil Red O and inhibited the elevation of triglycerides in the adipocytes (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 7.3 µmol/l). The expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ? (PPAR?) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein ? (C/EBP?), major transcription factors for adipocyte differentiation, was significantly reduced by sulforaphane. The major effects of sulforaphane on the inhibition of adipocyte differentiation occurred during the early stage of adipogenesis. Thus, the expression of C/EBP?, an early-stage biomarker of adipogenesis, decreased in a concentration-dependent manner whe...
Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio as a measure of systemic inflammation in prevalent chronic diseases in Asian population.
Conclusions: Systemic inflammation measured by NLR has a significant association with prevalent chronic conditions. Future research is needed to investigate this relationship with longitudinal data to establish the temporal association between these variables. (Source: International Archives of Medicine)
Selective Class I Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Suppresses Hypoxia-Induced Cardiopulmonary Remodeling Through an Antiproliferative Mechanism.
Conclusions:By targeting distinct pathogenic mechanisms, isoform-selective HDAC inhibitors have potential as novel therapeutics for pulmonary hypertension that will complement vasodilator standards of care. PMID: 22282194 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Circulation Research)
Insulin resistance: Is it time for primary prevention?
Authors: Mercurio V, Carlomagno G, Fazio V, Fazio S Abstract Insulin resistance is a clinical condition characterized by a decrease in sensitivity and responsiveness to the metabolic actions of insulin, so that a given concentration of insulin produces a less-than-expected biological effect. As a result, higher levels of insulin are needed to maintain normal glucose tolerance. Hyperinsulinemia, indeed, is one of the principal characteristics of insulin resistance states. This feature is common in several pathologic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia, and it is also a prominent component of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and atherosclerosis. The presence of endothelial dysfunction, related to insulin resistance, plays a key role in the development ...

factors for hypertension can be controlled effectively by your lifestyle choices. For example, excess weight and lack of exercise can lead to high blood pressure. So can tobacco use, excess alcohol consumption and chronic stress. By making good lifestyle choices that avoid as many of these risk factors as possible, you can do much to reduce your chances of developing dangerous hypertension. You may also have a higher risk of developing hypertension at some time in your life if you have a family history of this condition.

High Blood Pressure Treatments

The proper treatment of hypertension is important, even if you are not feeling bad. Since high blood pressure can increase your risk of other serious health problems, controlling your blood pressure is an important step to a healthier you. Lifestyle changes and medication is often the first step in controlling hypertension, and there are many prescription drugs that your doctor can prescribe to find the one that works the best for you.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes are an effective way to keep your blood pressure under control. A healthy diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables is a good first step, coupled with thirty minutes of daily physical activity that will keep your cardiovascular system strong and healthy. These two steps will also help you to maintain a healthy weight, which is another positive step in controlling blood pressure. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake and learning to manage your stress effectively are other good choices for lower blood pressure. Getting serious about your health is an important step in keeping your hypertension under control and enjoying a healthier lifestyle overall.

Also there are many natural ways to help lower your blood pressure without the use of drugs.

Hypertension & High Blood Pressure Articles..

Living with Hypertension And Neck Pain
By Nurse Nancy
Have you ever felt like your blood was going to boil and you could just barely rotate your neck, you probably have a condition referred to as neck pain and Read more...

Hypertension And Obesity
Understanding the Relation between Hypertension and Obesity. The problem of obesity is sharply increasing at an alarming rate. As estimated by different health journals, over 65% of Read more...