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Gene variant increases risk of asthma

A tiny variation in the CHI3L1 gene increases blood levels of YKL-40, a biomarker for asthma. The genetic variation also lowers YKL-40 levels and protects against asthma. Researchers found similar connections between the CHI3L1 variations, YKL-40 levels and asthma susceptibility in three genetically diverse populations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

Smoking is major risk factor for stroke in China

A large-scale study published in the American Heart Association rapid access journal report found that cigarette smoking is a significant predictor of stroke in Chinese men. Researchers analyzed data from over 170,000 participants and found that smokers were 2-3 times more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke compared to never-smokers.

Blood testing for mood disorders

A new approach identifies five genes involved in myelination and six genes involved in growth factor signaling as potential biomarkers for high and low mood states. The study suggests that blood biomarkers may offer an informative window into brain functioning and disease state.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 25, 2008

Study examines long-term outcomes following blood clots

A study examining long-term outcomes following blood clots found that patients with pulmonary embolism are at higher risk of experiencing recurrent clotting, major bleeding episodes, or death. The research also highlights the need for better anticoagulation strategies to reduce complications in the community setting.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2008

Ignition locks reduce DWIs

A new study found that vehicle interlocks significantly reduce DWIs among first-time offenders, with a 60% lower risk of repeat offenses. This economic benefit is substantial, saving $3 for every dollar spent on interlocks.

SourceBurness·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·DateFeb 11, 2008

Gotta have heart!

Crocodilians divert blood through a special vessel called the left aorta to bypass their lungs during digestion. This unique system enables them to secrete gastric acid at an unprecedented rate, facilitating digestion and survival. By shunting CO2-rich blood straight to the stomach, crocodilians maintain optimal digestive conditions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateFeb 4, 2008

Environmental pollution and diabetes may be linked

Scientists at the University of Cambridge highlight a strong correlation between persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and insulin resistance, leading to adult-onset diabetes. Research suggests that individuals with high POPs levels in their blood are more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, even if they are thin.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 25, 2008

Researchers put the bite on mosquitoes

Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered a complex metabolic pathway in mosquito species, which they aim to disrupt with a harmless molecule. This could lead to an insecticide that kills both mosquitoes and their eggs, slowing the spread of diseases like malaria and yellow fever.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2008

Minor leg injuries associated with risk of blood clots

A study of 2,471 patients with venous thrombosis found a three-fold greater relative risk associated with minor leg injuries that don't require surgery or extended bed rest. These injuries may increase blood clotting risk due to reduced activity and damage to blood vessel walls.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 14, 2008

Zanzibar's impressive attack on malaria

Research in Zanzibar, Tanzania found a remarkable fall in children dying from malaria, with deaths among the islands' children dropping to a quarter of the previous level. The achievement follows the introduction of improved treatment and the implementation of widespread use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 5, 2007

Folic acid lowers blood arsenic levels, according to Mailman School of Public Health study

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that folic acid supplements can dramatically lower blood arsenic levels by up to 14 percent. Folate deficiency is common in Bangladesh, where the study was conducted, and supplementation enhanced detoxification of arsenic.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 8, 2007