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Inflammatory markers linked with an increased risk of premature death in adults with COPD

2015-03-16
(Press-News.org) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is characterized by a state of inflammation. A new Respirology study has identified certain inflammatory markers that can be used to predict which patients are at the highest risk of dying prematurely.

In a national sample of 1144 US adults who were followed from 1988 to 2006, those with obstructive lung function had higher levels of white blood cell count and fibrinogen as well as a higher percentage of elevated C-reactive protein than participants with normal lung function. White blood cell count and concentrations of elevated C-reactive protein were weakly associated with an increased risk of dying during follow-up. Elevated concentrations of fibrinogen were modestly linked with an increased risk of dying.

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Finger lengths may indicate risk of schizophrenia in males

2015-03-16
Research suggests that the ratio of the lengths of the index finger and the ring finger in males may be predictive of a variety of disorders related to disturbed hormonal balance. When the index finger is shorter than the ring finger, this results in a small 2D:4D ratio, pointing to a high exposure to testosterone in the uterus. In a new study of 103 male patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and 100 matched healthy male individuals, investigators found that the 2D:4D ratio may be an effective predictor of schizophrenia--there were significant differences between schizophrenia ...

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Sufficient sleep is important for healthy sexual desire

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For some kids, Easter egg hunts can lead to skin problems

2015-03-16
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Minimally invasive spinal fusion: Less pain, faster recovery, smaller scar

Minimally invasive spinal fusion:  Less pain, faster recovery, smaller scar
2015-03-16
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New targets for rabies prevention and treatment

2015-03-16
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The dangers of reintroducing lions and other carnivores for ecotourism

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Universal public drug plan could save money for Canada

2015-03-16
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Universal public drug coverage would save Canada billions

2015-03-16
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[Press-News.org] Inflammatory markers linked with an increased risk of premature death in adults with COPD