New genetic link found for some forms of SIDS

Some forms of sudden infant death syndrome stem from a genetic mutation that keeps infants from processing lipids in milk, a new study has discovered. The build-up of unprocessed fatty material disrupts heart functions. While no treatments are yet available, the finding could help in genetic screening. Drugs are also being tested to see if they can help.

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When blood vessels are overly permeable

In Germany alone there are around 400,000 patients who suffer from chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. For the first time, researchers have discovered that dysfunctions in blood vessels play a significant role in the development of such diseases. In experimental model systems, the progression of the disease slowed down significantly by eliminating these dysfunctions.

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Paclitaxel-coated devices are safe for unblocking arteries in lower limbs, study suggests

A study of nearly 65,000 people suggests that devices coated with a drug called paclitaxel that are used for widening blocked arteries in legs and feet are safe and not linked to an increase in deaths — a finding that contradicts smaller studies that led to the FDA issuing a safety alert about the use of paclitaxel-coated stents and balloons for arterial revascularization in the lower limbs in January 2019.

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Dog ownership associated with longer life, especially among heart attack and stroke survivors


Dog ownership was associated with a 33% lower risk of early death for heart attack survivors living alone and 27% reduced risk of early death for stroke survivors living alone, compared to people who did not own a dog. Dog ownership was associated with a 24% reduced risk of all-cause mortality and a 31% lower risk of death by heart attack or stroke compared to non-owners.

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Regular exercise is good for your heart, no matter how old you are!

Regular exercise is highly beneficial for all patients with cardiovascular disease regardless of age, report investigators. Their results showed that the patients who benefited most from cardiac rehabilitation were those who started out with the greatest physical impairment.

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Large genome-wide association study illuminates genetic risk factors for gout

Researchers, using a method called genome-wide association study, have illuminated the genetic underpinnings of high serum urate, the blood condition that brings on gout. The study will inform efforts to develop screening tests for gout risk as well as potential new treatments.

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