Research identifies cellular signaling dysfunction causing brown fat cells to lose blood vessels and mitochondria, leading to energy production failure and increased risk of metabolic disorders.
A BUSM study found that expanding health insurance coverage in Massachusetts did not reduce 30-day readmission rates, particularly among African-American and Hispanic populations. The researchers suggest that states need to go beyond expanding insurance coverage to address disparities in access to care.
A new assessment tool for young adults with sickle cell disease has been developed to gauge their readiness for adult care. The tool, which was found to be effective in pinpointing areas of need, includes a comprehensive guidebook addressing personal concerns and knowledge gaps.
Researchers have found that pramlintide reduces amyloid-beta peptides and improves learning and memory in Alzheimer's disease models. The study also suggests lower levels of amylin in blood among AD patients, which could lead to new diagnosis and treatment options.
A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that allopurinol, a commonly used gout medication, is associated with a reduced risk of death in hyperuricemic patients. The study also suggests that treatment with allopurinol may protect against premature death, outweighing rare but serious adverse effects.
The new guidelines recommend regular screening for pulmonary hypertension in SCD adults, and intensifying SCD therapy for those with PH. Patients with symptomatic PH should be treated, while management is guided by hemodynamic numbers obtained through catheterization.
Sickle cell trait affects 3 million US citizens, with few aware of their status. Researchers call for improved communication of SCT results to primary care clinicians and genetic counseling on reproductive options
A study published in Neurology found that patients with restless legs syndrome had a higher mortality rate than similar men, and were more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease and hypertension. RLS screening may become more common as a tool for primary care providers to identify patients at risk of serious disease.
A recent analysis found that frequent experiences of racism were associated with a higher risk of obesity among African American women. Women who reported consistently high experiences of racism over a 12-year period were 69% more likely to become obese compared to those in the lowest category.
A study published in PLOS Genetics identified specific small segments of RNA that are highly expressed in Huntington's disease and may act as a mitigating factor, making them potential therapeutic targets. The researchers found that these microRNAs are present in higher quantities in patients with HD and may promote cell survival.
A virtual computer-based world was created to facilitate international healthcare education, engaging participants in a three-dimensional environment. The study successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of this new pedagogy, offering healthcare professionals limited access to traditional education resources.
Researchers found that skin cells from people with type 1 diabetes display elevated calcium levels when exposed to cytokines or fat, suggesting a link between environmental stimuli and genetic predisposition. This discovery may help identify susceptible individuals before disease onset.
Studies suggest that maintaining a normal level of the protein SirT1 may be effective in preventing obesity- and age-related diseases. Researchers have demonstrated that changing three amino acids on SirT1 can produce a 'super-sirt' that functions normally despite metabolic stress.
A large-scale US study reveals that people with multiple sclerosis have a decreased life expectancy compared to the general population. The median lifespan of MS patients was found to be 6 years less than that of non-MS individuals, with annual mortality rates being significantly higher.
A new study found that high levels of depressive symptoms are associated with an increased risk of developing adult-onset asthma in African-American women. Women with depressive symptom scores of 16 or higher had a two-fold increase in asthma incidence compared to those with lower scores.
A study led by Boston University School of Medicine found that a lack of liver protein SIRT1 is associated with lower levels of FGF21, leading to fatty liver disease and obesity. Elevated FGF21 levels, however, transformed white fat cells into brown fat cells, producing heat and burning calories.
A recent study led by Boston University School of Medicine found that hospitals caring for more sepsis patients have significantly lower mortality rates than those with lower volumes. The superior outcomes were achieved at similar costs, suggesting improved processes of care for patients with severe sepsis.
Researchers at Boston University are developing a new approach for detecting esophageal adenocarcinoma using a sponge-containing capsule. This non-invasive method could lead to wider screening, earlier detection, and improved survival rates for patients with Barrett's Esophagus.
A study found that pro-inflammatory molecules were strongly associated with increased mortality in alcohol-abusing HIV patients. IL-6 was identified as the molecule most closely linked to mortality, regardless of antiretroviral therapy use. This research may inform strategies to improve mortality rates among this vulnerable population.
A new video training from the Boston University School of Medicine provides expert guidance on endotracheal extubation techniques. The video aims to improve early removal of breathing tubes, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.
Boston Medical Center implemented a cost-effective approach to reduce audible alarms, resulting in a 89% decrease in cardiac monitor and telemetry alarms. The pilot study showed significant improvements in patient and clinician satisfaction, with increased time for direct care and interaction with patients.
A study of geriatric health care professionals found they experience emotional struggle while caring for their own aging relatives, but also benefits from this dual role. The researchers emphasize the need for support and tools for all caregivers to navigate difficult conversations with providers and family members.
A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health researcher Dr. Richard Saitz found that a single screening question may detect unhealthy substance use, including 88% for alcohol dependence and 97% for drug dependence, outperforming longer screening tools.
Researchers analyzed data from 294 participants with HIV and injection drug use history to identify risk factors for non-fatal overdoses. Injection frequency and anti-retroviral therapy were found to be associated with a higher risk of non-fatal overdose within the previous three months.
A recent study led by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that diflunisal successfully reduced neurological decline and preserved quality of life in patients with familial transthyretin amyloidosis. This repurposed generic drug demonstrates an effective alternative to liver transplantation for this devastating disease.
The study found that high levels of depressive symptoms may be associated with delayed antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation among HIV-infected Russian drinkers. Cognitive symptoms of depression were also linked to poorer ART adherence in this population.
A recent study found that eating burgers from restaurants at least twice a week was associated with a 26% increased risk of obesity in young African American women. Higher sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption also significantly contributed to obesity risk, with a 10% increase seen in those who drank two or more per day.
A new study finds that states with stronger alcohol policies have significantly lower binge drinking rates. The study analyzed 29 alcohol policies and found that stronger policy environments can reduce binge drinking rates by one-fourth, even after accounting for demographic factors.
Researchers found that aerobic fitness and hormones, including BDNF, predict recognition memory in healthy young adults. High levels of BDNF at high fitness predicted improved memory accuracy.
A study led by Boston University School of Medicine researchers reveals that methylation signaling regulates VEGFR-2, leading to angiogenesis and tumor growth. This finding provides a promising new approach to blocking cancer growth by targeting this biochemical process.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center are developing a next-generation condom that uses nanoparticle technology to increase comfort, strength, and sensation. The goal is to make condoms more appealing to use and reduce the stigma associated with them.
A new study published in the Journal of School Violence reveals that nearly 10% of US high school students have been physically hurt by their romantic partners in the past year. The prevalence rate has remained stable over the past 12 years, with black and multiracial youth being disproportionately affected.
A recent study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that competitive gymnasts have a higher exposure to potentially harmful flame-retardants than the general population. The average concentration of PentaBDE in gymnasts' blood sera was 4-6.5 times higher than in general U.S. population groups.
A recent study from Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center found that severe sepsis mortality rates decreased significantly between 1991-1995 (47%) and 2006-2009 (29%). The decline occurred without the development of new pharmacological treatments for severe sepsis.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine found that only about half of patients with newly diagnosed high cholesterol were screened for thyroid dysfunction. Current guidelines recommend TSH blood tests to rule out hypothyroidism in these patients.
A study found that Boston-area military veterans diagnosed with PTSD experienced flashbacks and unwanted memories after the Boston Marathon Bombing in April 2013. The researchers urge healthcare systems to be prepared to treat individuals affected by such tragedies.
Researchers have generated disease-specific induced pluripotent stem cell lines from a patient with familial transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR), a lethal protein-folding disorder. The study successfully recreates essential aspects of the disease in vitro, validating this iPSC-based system as a platform for testing therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine suggest epigenetics as a target for cancer therapy. Epigenetic changes mediate the development of cancer progenitor cells, which can grow rapidly to become full-fledged cancer.
Over 15 million children are exposed to intimate partner violence annually, with significant health consequences. Healthcare providers can mitigate this impact by screening for IPV and collaborating with community programs.
Dr. Avrum Spira has received the Alton Ochsner Award for his seminal research contributions to understanding the biological response of lung tissue to tobacco smoke. His work has led to the development of early detection biomarkers for lung cancer and molecular biomarkers for COPD treatment guidance.
The I-GAP consortium has identified 11 new regions of the genome involved in Alzheimer's disease, providing insights into its molecular mechanisms. These findings confirm biological pathways and immune response involvement, opening avenues to understanding the causes of AD.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a regulatory molecule, miR-4423, that is less abundant in people with lung cancer and inhibits lung cancer cell growth. This molecule may aid in diagnosing lung cancer in earlier stages and treating the disease when at healthy levels.
A recent study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that women with multiple social barriers to healthcare faced longer delays in cancer screening follow-up. The study, which looked at 1,493 subjects enrolled in the Boston Patient Navigation Research Program, showed that social barriers were a significant obstacle ...
Research finds obesity may significantly increase the risk of C. difficile infection, particularly in those with no prior healthcare exposure. Additionally, patients with inflammatory bowel disease are also at higher risk, highlighting the need for improved clinical surveillance and monitoring.
Scientists have captured images of the SecY/Sec61 channels in cell membranes, revealing how nascent proteins are transported to their target destinations. This discovery provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of protein transport and cell function.
An observational study found that testosterone treatment reduced total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and increased HDL in hypogonadal men. Testosterone therapy also lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure, suggesting a reduction in hypertension.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a novel mechanism by which fatty acids enter cells, bypassing traditional protein-mediated transport. This discovery has significant implications for the development of new drugs targeting fatty acid metabolism in diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
BMC has been approved to receive two research awards from PCORI, focusing on socio-legal barriers in cancer care and effective treatments for chronic pain. The hospital's commitment to innovative health care delivery is highlighted through these studies.
A recent study found that high-risk travelers, including those with medical comorbidities and pregnant women, account for nearly 20 percent of patients using the Boston Area Travel Medicine Network. These travelers often visited destinations with malaria and typhoid risk, highlighting the need for pre-travel care.
Researchers found that trauma-related psychophysiologic reactivity is a strong predictor of PTSD diagnosis in the general adult population. This biological marker shows promise for diagnosing PTSD, which affects approximately seven to 12 percent of US adults who have experienced trauma.