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Leeches are DNA bloodhounds in the jungle

A new method developed by the University of Copenhagen allows researchers to track mammal species in Southeast Asian rainforests using DNA-analysis from collected leeches. The technique has been successfully tested on local Vietnamese mammals, including rare species, and could revolutionize the monitoring of threatened wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

New pregnancy risk for babies and moms

A new study reveals that overweight pregnant women with mildly elevated blood sugar levels are at a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes than previously thought. These women, who do not have gestational diabetes or obesity, carry significant risks for their health and the health of their babies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateApr 11, 2012

Mount Sinai releases landmark research at American College of Cardiology meeting

Researchers from Mount Sinai School of Medicine presented several studies at the American College of Cardiology's annual scientific session. One study found that aggressive statin therapy reduced fat content in coronary blockage by 22 percent, while another showed that cardiovascular disease screening can identify risk factors and symp...

Solved: The mystery of the blood orange

Researchers have discovered that a retrotransposon element is responsible for inducing anthocyanin production in blood oranges when exposed to cold conditions. This finding has significant implications for the future of blood orange production, potentially allowing for reliable worldwide cultivation and increasing their availability as...

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 16, 2012

Blood on the menu

Scientists have discovered how to control the Ruby gene, which is associated with improved cardiovascular health and reduced obesity. This breakthrough could lead to genetically engineered blood oranges that can thrive in warmer climates without cold dependency.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 12, 2012

Scientists discover 'Achilles' heel' of clot-buster

Researchers have solved the atomic structure of closed plasminogen, a key player in the clot-busting process, revealing an 'Achilles' heel' that proteins bind to when it opens up. This discovery may lead to more effective clot-busting drugs for treating heart attacks and strokes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 8, 2012

Clot-busting enzyme plays 'peek-a-boo' with blood clots

Researchers at Monash University have discovered how a blood clot-busting enzyme is switched on, revealing a 'peek-a-boo' mechanism that could lead to new treatments for clotting and bleeding disorders. The findings also provide insights into the molecular details of current plasminogen-activating drugs.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 8, 2012

Study finds Caribbean-American women at higher risk for elevated mercury levels

A new study has found that foreign-born immigrant women from the Caribbean are at a higher risk of elevated mercury levels in their blood. Mercury exposure is particularly concerning for infants and children due to potential damage to cognitive and central nervous system development. The study suggests that community education efforts ...

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalJournal of Environmental Monitoring·DateFeb 17, 2012

Biochip measures glucose in saliva, not blood

Researchers at Brown University have developed a biochip that can measure glucose levels in saliva, providing a potential solution for non-invasive diabetes monitoring. The biochip uses surface plasmonics to detect glucose molecules in water, with results showing concentrations similar to those found in human saliva.

SourceBrown University·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 23, 2012

Boston University School of Medicine researchers clarify link between salt and hypertension

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine debunked the concept that excess salt causes high blood pressure by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system to produce adrenalin, causing artery constriction. The study suggests that diuretics may not be enough to treat hypertension cases associated with renal failure and recommend...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Hypertension·DateJan 11, 2012