A review article in EMBO Reports highlights how flawed clinical research is often publicized with hype and sensationalism by the media, leading to devastating effects on patients and society. Experts suggest strategies to prevent distorted study results from being accepted by medical professionals and the general public.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered that the hippocampus is crucial for constructing scenes in one's mind when imagining the future. This finding sheds light on how the brain supports the capacity to imagine the future and identifies key brain regions involved.
A study published in BMJ Open found that Tai Chi significantly improved the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans, including managing intrusive thoughts and physiological arousal. The program was well-received by participants, with nearly 94% reporting favorable impressions.
Boston University researchers discovered a novel molecular pathway needed to regulate kidney podocytes, critical in maintaining normal kidney function. This finding may help identify a new drug target for chronic kidney diseases associated with podocyte loss.
BMC's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center will lead a program that aims to reach 1,000 children and youth with epilepsy through advanced telemedicine applications. The 'Telehealth Epilepsy Care Collaborative' seeks to identify signs of seizures in infants, children, and adolescents.
A new method for identifying illicit drugs has been developed, offering high sensitivity and fast results. This technique uses multi-dimensional chromatography combined with a micro-extraction method, allowing for rapid analysis in under 20 minutes.
Philip A. Wolf, a Boston University School of Medicine professor, has been recognized for his excellence in research and clinical trials by the American Heart Association. He is renowned for his work on stroke epidemiology, dementia, and cognitive decline, with over 350 publications to his name.
A new study has identified BRD4 protein as a crucial driver of breast cancer cell dissemination, offering a promising new target for therapy. The findings may provide hope for patients with triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat subtype.
The Center for Regenerative Medicine at Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine has received three prestigious NIH awards totaling over $9 million to further its commitment to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) research and education. These awards will support the development of stem cell-based treatments for v...
A noninvasive Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) method has been proposed to detect bone marrow cancer, potentially changing the way this disease is diagnosed. The researchers used T2-weighted MRI to identify a pre-fibrotic state of the disease with a clear bright signal.
Research reveals a strong connection between fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease, with individuals with fatty liver at higher risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
A novel technique using Direct Sample Analysis Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (TOFMS) can identify NBOMe compounds on blotter paper in under 15 seconds. This method will help forensic laboratories efficiently analyze growing caseloads of designer drugs, potentially reducing the risk of fatalities and severe injuries.
Dr. Michael E. Charness has made significant contributions to understanding the effects of alcohol on the nervous system and has developed drugs that block alcohol toxicity. He is a leading expert in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and has cared for patients with neurological disorders throughout his career.
Researchers identify direct link between brain inflammation and CTE, with longer football careers predicting increased inflammation and disease progression. The study suggests that treating inflammation could prevent or lessen CTE development, offering potential biomarkers for early identification.
Claudia Satizabal, a Boston University researcher, has received an Alzheimer's Association research grant to investigate the impact of midlife obesity on brain aging and dementia. Her study aims to understand the mechanisms by which obesity increases the risk of dementia and AD.
A new study by Boston University researchers indicates that citizens are likely to know a gun violence victim, highlighting the issue's prevalence in American society. The study used CDC data from 2013 and found that nearly all Americans have a 99.85% chance of knowing someone who has experienced gun violence.
Researchers argue that treating gout to avoid symptoms may not effectively address the underlying high uric acid levels causing the condition. They propose a 'treat-to-target' approach to reduce uric acid levels to prevent crystallization and alleviate symptoms.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a potential treatment option for ovarian cancer by combining calpeptin with epigenetic inhibitors. The therapy shows promise in killing cancer cells and preventing their growth, offering new hope for women affected by the disease.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a genetic risk factor for binge eating, linked to decreased myelination. The findings could lead to novel therapeutic treatments targeting eating behaviors.
Researchers have determined that combining CX-4945 and JQ1 can efficiently kill T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells while sparing normal blood cells. The findings provide new hope for the treatment of refractory/relapsed T-cell leukemia, a form of cancer with a high mortality rate.
African American women are diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages and face higher mortality rates due to more aggressive ER-negative tumors. Researchers identified modifiable risk factors, including breastfeeding and waist-to-hip ratio, that may help reduce personal risk of ER-negative breast cancer.
Boston University School of Medicine professor Sudha Seshadri has been awarded three grants totaling $20 million to study healthy brain aging, stroke, and dementia. Her research aims to identify biomarkers for AD and explore reversible lifestyle and vascular risk factors that contribute to dementia risk.
The new opioid urgent care center provides a full continuum of treatment services, including detoxification and follow-up care, to patients with substance use disorders. Faster Paths integrates BMC's existing addiction services to streamline access to treatment.
Researchers found that nearly half of pregnancy-associated deaths were due to unintentional injuries, homicide, or suicide. The study suggests addressing psychosocial contributors to health during pregnancy can effectively prevent maternal deaths.
Researchers will examine the intersection of alcohol use and comorbidities in people living with HIV, including tuberculosis, cardiovascular disease, and falls. The five-year grants aim to improve health outcomes for alcohol-using individuals living with HIV.
A new BU study reveals that the nation's two largest soda companies sponsored at least 96 national health organizations from 2011 to 2015, dampening efforts to combat obesity and reduce soda consumption. The companies' tactics include using relationships with health groups to develop positive associations for their brands.
Replacing maximum SNAP allotment with a real-cost benefit and expanding WIC eligibility to age 6 can help families who experience food insecurity. Additionally, maintaining CEP for school meal programs can increase access to food for children in low-income households.
A new therapeutic target has been identified for the treatment of compulsive binge eating, targeting the brain receptor TAAR1. Activation of this receptor shows promise in reducing maladaptive feeding behaviors and blocking addiction-like behavior to junk food.
A new study found that transgender women on hormone therapy have a higher rate of smoking cessation compared to the general population, with 64% of current smokers quitting after starting treatment. Researchers believe this may be due to the life-changing event of hormone therapy and the associated health risks.
Researchers mapped the first active human apoptosome, a wheel-like structure that recruits proteases to dismantle proteins and induce cell death. The study provides insights into how this process is regulated and may lead to treatment options for cancer, AIDS, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Boston University researchers have identified a new strategy to treat colon cancers driven by the mutant KRAS gene. The study found that inhibiting MEK and TAK1 genes suppresses the growth of these cancer cells, providing a potential avenue for precision medicine.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a new role of the protein c-Cbl in degrading ?-catenin, a vital protein involved in cancer initiation. This finding could lead to new strategies to suppress Colorectal Cancer growth and improve patient survival.
A group of pediatricians is urging the pediatric workforce to address opioid addiction among young people, highlighting the need for evidence-based treatment including medication-assisted treatment. Many young people continue to see their pediatric provider well into young adulthood, when they first struggle with opioid addiction.
A two-year study of over 37,800 live births in Zambia found that chlorhexidine washes did not reduce neonatal mortality, contradicting previous results in south Asia. The study suggests that the treatment may not be effective in lower mortality settings with more facility-based deliveries.
A study in rural Nepal found that poverty and lack of support are key barriers to institutional births, despite the known safety benefits. Only 30% of women had their babies in a hospital or health post, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address socioeconomic and structural barriers.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine discover a novel protein called PTRF linked to type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. The study finds that most obese individuals develop insulin resistance despite having normal fat cells.
A recent study found that fertility clinic websites have limited information on assisted reproductive technology (ART) for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) couples compared to heterosexual couples. The study suggests a potential gap in access to fertility services by LGBT persons.
Unproven stem cell therapies are on the rise for lung disease patients, despite promise of new treatments. Researchers warn that aggressive marketing and lack of regulation are exacerbating perceptions of these therapies.
A recent study by Boston University School of Medicine found that US maternal mortality rates are significantly higher than previously reported, with an estimated rate of 23.8 per 100,000 live births in 2014. The study highlights the need to improve maternity care and prevent maternal deaths in the US.
Researchers discovered a link between slow walking speeds, weak grip strength, and increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and stroke in individuals over 65. These simple tests may help identify high-risk patients, providing hope for early detection and prevention.
A study published in PLOS ONE found a significant racial disparity in opioid prescriptions for black patients with vague pain-related conditions, suggesting discrimination and potential unintended consequences. Researchers used the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey to examine five-year data from 2007-2011.
Researchers studied how epigenetics regulate vital functions in bacteria, simple eukaryotes, and complex organisms like humans. The study reveals that epigenetic mechanisms play a crucial role in regulating development, gene expression, and disease susceptibility.
CityLab will partner with Fordham University and local squash organizations to provide engaging STEM experiences for students from diverse backgrounds. The program aims to develop a national model for informal precollege biomedical science education, inspiring careers in STEM fields.
A unique dermatology residency program at Boston University School of Medicine aims to develop well-rounded dermatologists with careers focused on teaching, patient care and research. The program provides personalized career development courses and structured mentorship for junior faculty members.
Researchers have identified a modified human protein essential for Ebola virus replication, offering new targets for therapeutic development.
Researchers have created a diagnostic model called the Framingham Steatosis Index (FSI) that can accurately predict nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The FSI is highly predictive and may become a cheaper alternative to screen for liver fat.
Researchers found an association between atrial fibrillation and smaller frontal lobe brain volumes in a recent study published in Heart Rhythm. The study examined the relationship between AF and brain volume using MRI, revealing that AF was associated with reduced frontal lobe volumes even after adjusting for other factors.
The BMC Vital Village Network has received a $500,000 strategic planning grant to develop infrastructure supporting children entering kindergarten at a healthy weight. The project aims to promote healthy growth and development through a two-generation approach, involving community settings from preconception to age 5.
A recent study reveals that nearly 60 percent of people have preclinical heart failure stages A and B, with stage B individuals at increased risk for death. The findings highlight the importance of targeting prevention efforts at the earliest HF stages to avoid death, particularly among men and older adults.
Researchers are seeking to understand why African-American women die at a higher rate and experience more aggressive breast tumors than white women. The new study aims to identify genetic variants related to breast cancer in African-American women, which may lead to better treatments and prevention.