The Geiger Gibson Program in Community Health Policy has selected eight young Emerging Leaders for their outstanding policy and leadership achievements. The award highlights the future leaders of community health centers, recognizing commitment, motivation, professional achievement, and leadership qualities.
Pit latrines pose a risk to global health due to potential contamination of groundwater, particularly in areas with high population densities. A new study emphasizes the need for improved designs and technologies to mitigate this risk, ensuring safer drinking water for millions worldwide.
A recent study by GW researcher Mudit Tyagi explores the impact of cocaine on HIV replication and transmission in brain cells. Cocaine use has been linked to a more severe onset of NeuroAIDS, and researchers believe that gene expression of integrated HIV proviruses are influenced by this type of stimulation.
GW researcher Xiaoyan Zheng is studying the mechanism involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway's regulation of cell-cell adhesion and segregation. The goal is to find better ways to treat diseases related to these interactions, such as cancer.
A recent study led by George Washington University Assistant Biology Professor Alex Pyron used DNA sequencing technology to discover a new species of blindsnake in Sri Lanka, revealing the island's immense biodiversity. The research also shed light on the evolutionary relationships between snakes and other reptiles globally.
The report finds that most health centers provide some form of family planning services, but only a quarter offer comprehensive access to contraceptive methods. Recommendations include investing in clinical quality improvement and partnerships with Title X programs to reach underserved populations.
A new report estimates that sequestration will lead to a $120 million funding loss for community health centers, resulting in 900,000 fewer patients served and 3 million fewer visits. The impact will disproportionately affect the poorest Americans, children, young families, and members of ethnic and racial minority groups.
A new study led by Robert G. Hawley may help predict which patients with multiple myeloma will respond better to certain treatments. The researchers discovered a test that can detect tumor-propagating cells, which are responsible for disease relapse.
A new study finds that certain blood-pumping video games can increase energy expenditures among inner-city children, meeting moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity guidelines. The study suggests e-gaming might be a useful alternative to traditional physical education for younger school children.
A study by George Washington University researchers found that habitually barefoot people in Kenya vary their foot strike patterns based on speed and running surface firmness, contradicting the long-held notion of a forefoot-first strike. The study's results have implications for our understanding of human ancestors' running gaits.
Research at George Washington University reveals that genetic lesions associated with autism disrupt cellular mechanisms for interneuron development. LaMantia found that the Cxcr4 cytokine receptor plays a crucial role in regulating interneuron migration.
Researchers at George Washington University studied piranhas to measure their biting forces, revealing that even smaller prey is not safe from their powerful attacks. The black piranha has the most powerful bite force among fish, with some specimens exerting over 30 times their body weight.
A new policy brief reveals that workplace injuries and illnesses among low-wage workers result in significant economic losses and severe personal consequences. The study estimates that such injuries and illnesses cost the nation over $39 billion annually, with workers often facing reduced paychecks and struggling to make ends meet.
The study found a significant increase in the risk of developing eBL in young children with a distinct pattern of antibody responses to several different recombinant Pf malaria antigens. Antibodies to SE36, a vaccine candidate protein, were associated with a decreased risk of eBL.
A study by Sabrina McCormick found that citizen science can quickly identify hazards and provide specific local information, often missing from official reports. The Spill Map collected over 2,600 online reports and in-person interviews, capturing real-time data on oil spill impacts and health problems.
A new method of prenatal testing using microarray technology is providing physicians with more comprehensive results than conventional karyotyping, according to George Washington University researchers. The study found that microarray analysis can identify additional abnormalities not detectable by karyotyping, allowing for earlier int...
A new analysis by Professor Sara Rosenbaum finds that severe Medicaid cuts would cripple the US healthcare system, halting state expansions for low-income adults. The block grant proposal is the most far-reaching plan under consideration, but other approaches also miss the mark.
A recent study by George Washington University Professor Amy Zanne found that plants worldwide are operating at their safety threshold for drought, making forests vulnerable to environmental stress. The research reveals that while plants vary in drought resistance, they share similar hydraulic safety thresholds across all forest types.
Imtiaz A. Khan, a GW professor, is studying the effects of microsporidia on HIV patients using a $1.6 million federal grant. His project aims to regulate CD8+ T cells to prevent complications in immunocompromised individuals.
A parasitic worm, prevalent in Southeast Asia, is believed to cause infections that contribute to liver cancer. The grant-funded research aims to understand how the worm's granulin secretion enhances tumorigenic environments and may lead to the development of a treatment.
A study by George Washington University researchers estimates that over 1 million low-income women could get mammograms and Pap tests for breast and cervical cancer. The Affordable Care Act could lead to major gains in screening and early detection, resulting in faster treatment and better outcomes for women across the nation.
Researchers at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences discover a new regulator of the blood coagulation cascade, p21-activated Kinase-1 (PAK1) signaling. The study finds that PAK1 regulates both positive and negative regulators of coagulation, promoting a hypercoagulant state.
A GW researcher has received a grant to study the effectiveness of Tamsulosin as an alternative treatment for kidney stones, with the goal of reducing complications and speeding up stone passage. The four-year study will enroll patients in three Emergency Departments and randomize them to receive either Tamsulosin or a placebo.
George Washington University has received a $2.3 million contract to assess the baseline characteristics and outcomes of training medical residents in community-based settings. The goal is to strengthen primary care workforce access, particularly for people living in underserved neighborhoods.
Professor Sidney Fu is studying small RNA biomarkers to develop a blood test for detecting early-stage breast cancer. His research aims to identify patients who will not benefit from aggressive treatments, saving them from unnecessary trauma and stress.
Researchers are investigating the mechanisms of atherosclerosis in HIV-infected patients, exploring whether HIV infection itself is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. A study using transgenic mice could provide insight into how HIV causes lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and potentially lead to new trea...
The George Washington University (GWU) and University of Maryland have received a $916,000 National Science Foundation grant to develop faster and more secure data transfer solutions for their research data. The two-year project aims to reduce costs and increase efficiency in data shipping methods.
A study by George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services suggests that work-family conflict is linked to a higher risk of neck and shoulder pain in hospital workers. Researchers found that employees with high work-life imbalance were nearly three times more likely to report arm pain.
A new report by the George Washington University School of Public Health found that antipsychotic drug manufacturers spent over $25 million on marketing to psychiatrists in DC Medicaid in 2010. The majority of these funds, 66%, were directed towards Medicaid providers, raising concerns about the influence of industry funding on prescri...
A 5-year, $134 million grant from the National Institute of Health will support a clinical trial examining four glucose-lowering medications for type 2 diabetes treatment. The study aims to determine which therapy most effectively and safely reaches and maintains near normal levels of blood glucose.
Research reveals human brains develop myelin insulation at a slower rate than chimpanzees, leading to delayed cognitive maturity and increased vulnerability to psychiatric disorders. This difference may play a key role in human-specific cognitive abilities.
A GW University researcher is using a green electrochemical process to form cement without CO2 gases, aiming to replace traditional cement production methods. The project could potentially decrease the cost of solar cement and contribute to training the next generation of renewable energy scientists.
The university has received nearly $24.5 million in grants, including almost $14 million for the Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and its Complications study. The funding will help researchers investigate the long-term effects of glycemia on diabetes complications and improve healthcare quality in targeted communities.
A GW professor is studying the correlation between genetics and susceptibility to drug abuse. He will use genomics expertise to investigate morphine addiction in mouse models, focusing on changes in brain genes that may lead to addiction.
Dr. Keith Crandall's research in the journal Ecology and Evolution found that Cerataspis monstrosa is a larval stage of the deep-water aristeid shrimp Plesiopenaeus armatus. The discovery sheds light on biodiversity and life history of the organism.
Research finds that men experiencing persistent sexual side effects while on finasteride have a high prevalence of depressive symptoms (11-36%) and suicidal thoughts (44%). Former finasteride users with these side effects are at risk for mental health issues.
The GW School of Nursing has received a three-year grant worth nearly $1 million to diversify its nursing workforce. The program aims to recruit and retain more students from underrepresented groups, including people of color and those living in rural Virginia. To achieve this, the school will launch marketing and recruitment campaigns...
A new study finds that many hospitals, including Denver Health, continue to engage in 'patient dumping' - turning away or transferring uninsured patients with emergency medical conditions. The researchers argue that the law needs stronger enforcement and a simplified reporting system to curb this practice.
A new legal analysis warns that some states may delay or refuse to participate in the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act, leaving millions of impoverished children and adults at risk for lack of coverage. The expansion could create new jobs and provide a much-needed boost to thousands of communities affected by poverty.
A GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences study published in Nature Communications reveals that traditional sun protection may not be effective against skin cancer. The research found that UVA radiation induces melanin formation, which is directly involved in melanoma formation, contradicting the notion of a 'safe tan'.
A recent study by George Washington University School of Nursing found that three ACA provisions have inadequate addressed the needs of elderly Americans receiving long-term services and supports. The research highlights the potential for unintended consequences, including poor outcomes, if these provisions are not retooled.
Researchers at George Washington University have received over $860,000 in federal funding to study the effects of earthquakes on nuclear reactor cores. The study aims to simulate fuel rod vibrations and assess potential damage during an earthquake, which could lead to radioactive material release.
A community health center in Joplin, MO, survived a tornado by having comprehensive disaster planning and robust electronic medical record systems. The study highlights the importance of data security and preparedness for interruptions to care and information access during disasters.
A study of 7,424 privately insured colon cancer patients found that managed care presence and hospital competition increased the likelihood of laparoscopic surgery, which lowered costs. The researchers also discovered a 10% increase in HMO penetration was associated with a 10.3% increase in laparoscopy utilization.
Dr. Blomster's findings reveal the Mixteca Alta region of Oaxaca was part of the ballgame iconography and ideology, dating back to the Early Horizon period. The discovery highlights the active participation of ancient Mixtec societies in Mesoamerican civilization.
A new species of raptor dinosaur, Linheraptor exquisitus, has been discovered by a GW Ph.D. candidate and UCL grad student. The exceptionally well-preserved fossil provides valuable insights into the evolution of related dinosaurs.
A GW research team has discovered a new species of dinosaur, Haplocheirus sollers, that links to bird evolution. The Late Jurassic fossil, found in China, shows early evolutionary stages in bird-like dinosaurs.
Recent claims of fossil life on Earth over 3.8 billion years ago are called into question by researchers from The George Washington University and the Swedish Museum of Natural History. A new study suggests that carbon in ancient rocks may have formed non-biotically, rather than through biological processes.
A team of scientists excavated a chimpanzee nut-cracking site in West Africa, uncovering new facets and confirming existing knowledge about chimpanzee tool behavior. The study suggests that some Oldowan sites may be re-interpreted as nut-cracking sites, providing new insights into human evolution.