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How proteins age

Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism by which secreted proteins age and turn over, shedding light on a crucial aspect of health and disease. The discovery identifies over 600 proteins with molecular signs of aging and turnover, including regulators of proteolysis, blood coagulation, and immunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Blood clots may complicate aortic valve replacements

A new study from the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute shows that about 15% of patients with bioprosthetic aortic heart valves develop blood clots on the leaflets, which can impair valve motion. However, anti-coagulation medications like Warfarin quickly resolve the issue for all patients, regardless of the type of valve or procedure.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Blood and teeth samples accurately predict a criminal's age

Forensic examiners can use blood or teeth samples to estimate an individual's age with great accuracy, helping track down criminals or identify human remains. Researchers at KU Leuven developed a test based on four age-associated DNA methylation markers, achieving margins of error of 3.75 years for blood and 4.86 years for teeth.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalEpigenetics·DateSep 8, 2015

When stroke patients undergo surgery to remove blood clots, what anesthesia works best?

A study in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases explores the pros and cons of general anesthesia versus conscious sedation for stroke patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery. The authors conclude that an anesthesiologist or anesthesia care team should be present to provide sedation, regardless of the approach used.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateSep 1, 2015

Interrupting sitting with walking breaks improves children's blood sugar

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that interrupting sedentary behavior with short walking breaks can improve children's blood sugar levels. This benefit was observed even after a sugary drink was consumed, suggesting potential long-term benefits for metabolic health.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 27, 2015

Bariatric surgery procedure lowers tolerance for alcohol

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that women who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery had a faster increase in blood alcohol concentration and reported greater feelings of drunkenness. This alteration in alcohol metabolism increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorders, highlighting the need for public awareness.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateAug 5, 2015

Blocking a gene reduces fat

Researchers at the University of Montreal successfully block apoC-III gene expression, demonstrating significant decreases in triglyceride levels. This breakthrough could lead to precise interventions for severe hypertriglyceridemia, reducing cardiovascular risks.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 29, 2015

Questionnaire beats blood test in identifying at-risk drinking among ER patients

A 10-point questionnaire, known as the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), is more effective than measuring blood alcohol level in detecting patients with at-risk drinking behaviors. The study found that up to 50% of trauma patients have alcohol in their bloodstream, and brief interventions can lead to a 50% reduction in...

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJul 21, 2015