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First blood test to diagnose depression in adults

A new blood test identifies 9 RNA markers tied to depression, predicting who will benefit from therapy and providing the first objective, scientific diagnosis. The test also shows biological effects of cognitive behavioral therapy, offering personalized medicine approach to people suffering from depression.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 2014

Of bees, mites, and viruses

Researchers found that Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) is the most affected virus species by Varroa infestation, while Kashmir Bee Virus (KBV) peaks two years after initial infestation and disappears. The study highlights the importance of beekeeper awareness, mite monitoring, and efficient Varroa control.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 2014

SLU scientists hit 'delete': Removing regions of shape-shifting protein explains how blood clots

Researchers at Saint Louis University discovered that deleting disordered sections of a protein's structure reveals the molecular mechanism of blood clotting. By crystallizing prothrombin, they found that the deleted version is activated to thrombin faster and provides key information on the mechanism of prothrombin activation.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2014

R.I. lead law effective, often ignored

A study by Brown University researchers found that Rhode Island's Lead Hazard Mitigation Law has significantly reduced blood lead levels in children living in compliant buildings. However, only 20% of properties covered by the law were in compliance, with average lead levels still above 5 micrograms per deciliter in noncompliant homes.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 7, 2014

New research can improve heart health

Researchers found that people with a specific gene variation have lower blood lipids and a reduced risk of arteriosclerosis. The study, based on two large population studies, suggests that inhibiting apolipoprotein C3 could be an effective target for new drugs to prevent cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 18, 2014

New test detects toxic prions in blood

A new assay can detect toxic prions in blood samples from humans with variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) and asymptomatic animals. The test, developed by French researchers, was tested on vCJD patients and non-infected controls, accurately identifying infected individuals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 12, 2014

Endoscope with an oxygen sensor detects pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed an optical blood oxygen sensor attached to an endoscope that can identify pancreatic cancer with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 86%. The device measures changes in blood flow near the pancreas, which tumors alter to grow. Early detection is crucial as most pancreatic cancers are diagno...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 6, 2014

Surgeons report fewer postoperative blood clots using risk-based preventive measures

A standardized prevention program implemented in a hospital department of surgery significantly reduced the rate of deep venous thromboses (DVT) and pulmonary emboli among patients. The program, which scored individual risk factors and provided risk-based prophylaxis, led to an 84% drop in DVT rates and a 55% decrease in pulmonary emboli.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 2, 2014

Elephant seals' carbon monoxide levels are as high as heavy human smokers'

Researchers discovered that elephant seals have high levels of carboxyhemoglobin, similar to those found in heavy human smokers. The team suggests that this may provide protective effects against oxidative damage, potentially benefiting the animals' health. Further study is needed to fully understand the significance of these findings.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMay 14, 2014

Novel blood test may help predict impending preterm birth

A blood test has been developed to predict impending preterm birth, distinguishing between true and false labor in 70% of cases. The new test outperforms existing methods by using a set of nine genes coupled with clinical data, allowing for all women to be screened as part of routine blood work.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2014

Whey beneficially affects diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk factors in obese adults

A study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found that whey protein slows down stomach emptying and lowers fatty acid levels, increasing insulin levels in obese adults. The results suggest that whey protein may be a beneficial addition to diets for those at risk of developing type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateApr 30, 2014

Autologous stem cell therapy improves motor function in chronic stroke victims

A study published in Cell Transplantation found that injecting autologous peripheral blood stem cells into the brain of stroke patients improved their motor function. The treatment was safe and feasible in patients who suffered a prior stroke, with significant improvements in clinical outcomes measures.