Researchers have identified common variants near the gene for melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) that influence the risk of obesity and insulin resistance, according to findings from two studies appearing in the May 4th online issue of Nature Genetics. Reuters Health Information
The anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) is associated with preserved beta-cell capacity in patients newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, according to European researchers. Reuters Health Information
The results of a study published this week suggest that there is little difference in the efficacy of commonly used osteoporosis drugs for the prevention of fractures. Reuters Health Information
Among patients who undergo coronary angiography because of chest pain, the prevalence of obstructive coronary artery disease is greater among those with osteoporosis or osteopenia compared to those with normal bone mineral density (BMD). Reuters Health Information
Higher maternal body mass index (BMI) in the first trimester of pregnancy and a greater change in BMI during pregnancy are associated with longer gestations, a decreased rate of spontaneous labor at term, and more complications, according to results of a study published in the May issue of the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Reuters Health Information
A functional polymorphism in the erythropoietin promoter may be associated with more severe microvascular complications of the eye and kidney in patients with diabetes, according to a report in the May 13th issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Reuters Health Information
Highlights include APN prescribing, the management of pain, identifying mild cognitive impairment, insomnia, and the differences of NPs and PAs providing diabetes care. Medscape Nurses
A drug from a new class of weight-loss treatments disrupted brain development in young mice, U.S. researchers said on Wednesday, raising concerns about using these drugs in children. Reuters Health Information
In a large, population-based study of elderly patients, low levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and increased parathyroid hormone levels were linked with depression. Medscape Medical News