A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University quantifies the financial impact of sickle cell disease, revealing $15k in lost wages per year per person, totaling $650,000 over a lifetime. The research found that 97% of respondents experienced severe and debilitating pain attacks from sickle cell.
A scoping review by VCU School of Medicine researchers found that ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a promising approach for supporting the health needs of MSM, with high rates of acceptance and feasibility. The study identified gaps in current research designs and emphasized the need for evidence-based best practices in EMA met...
Researchers at VCU found a clear preference for immediate revenge in six experiments with over 1,500 participants. Participants who ruminated on past provocations or had antagonistic traits showed a shift towards delayed-but-greater revenge.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the largest decrease in US life expectancy since World War II, with Black Americans experiencing a staggering 3.25-year decline. The data highlights significant disparities in health outcomes across racial groups and between the US and peer countries.
Researchers discovered a targeted drug, AT7519, effective in thwarting pancreatic tumors addicted to mutant KRAS gene. The study found that this CDK inhibitor selectively kills mutant KRAS-addicted cancer cells.
A study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers found that secondhand smoke exposure during pregnancy is associated with epigenetic changes in babies, which can increase the risk of developmental disorders and cancer. The study analyzed data from over 100 pregnant women and found correlations between low levels of cotinine, a n...
A recent study found that Black and Latinx surgeons are underrepresented in university leadership positions, with only a few individuals holding full professorships or department chairs. The study suggests that sponsorship, mentorship, allyship, and representation can help promote diversity and address these disparities.
A new approach uses T cell engineering to deliver the gene coding for IL-24, which targets cancer cells regardless of their expression of target molecules. This method blocks tumor growth, starves tumors of nutrients, and generates memory T cells that can theoretically kill tumors if they recur.
Recent studies at VCU Massey Cancer Center discovered a link between prolactin and breast cancer development. The hormone was found to act as a major contributor to breast cancer growth and could inform the creation of targeted drugs to treat multiple forms of the disease.
A study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers found that romantic relationships can help alleviate the negative impact of trauma on drinking behavior among college students. The study, which involved nearly 9,000 participants, discovered that students who experienced interpersonal trauma during college consumed more alcohol t...
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a protein called PLK3 that operates with mutated p53 genes to spur lung cancer growth. Inhibiting PLK3 has been shown to reduce tumor cell formation and proliferation in preclinical models of lung cancer.
A new study led by VCU researchers found that e-cigarettes delivering a high amount of nicotine are effective in reducing smoking and exposure to NNAL, a major pulmonary carcinogen. The study suggests that when e-cigarettes deliver nicotine effectively, smokers have greater success in quitting or reducing their smoking habit.
A VCU-led study found that regional surges contributed to higher excess death rates from COVID-19 and other causes, particularly affecting Black Americans. Excess deaths rose a staggering 22.9% nationally from March 2020 to January 2021.
A study by VCU researchers found that older people and Republicans were less likely to support vaccine donations, while Democrats and those without health insurance were more supportive. The majority of respondents agreed on donating up to 10% of available vaccines.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center developed a bespoke therapy combining phenformin and AZD3965 to exploit the metabolic 'hunger' of aggressive neuroblastoma, leading to greater tumor shrinkage without collateral damage. The treatment showed promising results in mice seeded with MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma patient cells.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a crucial link between the development and growth of glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The gene YTHDF2 drives increased cholesterol levels in GBM cells, paving the way for potential new treatments targeting this gene.
A recent study found that MYCN overexpression leads to increased iron levels, which induce ferroptosis, a type of cell death. This vulnerability can be exploited by drugs blocking ROS elimination, making cancer cells susceptible to treatment. The researchers plan to test FDA-approved rheumatoid arthritis drugs in preclinical models.
A new study led by VCU Massey Cancer Center researcher Jeanine Guidry found that parents of children with cancer are more susceptible to COVID-19 misinformation. The study, published in Emerging Infectious Diseases, suggests that pediatric oncology providers should be aware of this issue and proactively address it during visits.
Researchers developed a technique combining dPCR and HSAFM to diagnose DNA rearrangement mutations with high accuracy and low cost. The technology accurately identified FLT3 gene mutations in patients with acute myeloid leukemia, offering a potential powerful tool for cancer diagnosis.
A type of immune cell known as regulatory T cells acts as a major driver of breast cancer growth by preventing the accumulation of a specific protein that induces anti-tumor responses. Targeting these cells could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients.
A survey of 788 US adults found that concerns about side effects were a significant barrier to getting the vaccine. Disparities in willingness to get vaccinated also existed among demographic groups, with younger and white respondents more likely to be willing than older and Black respondents.
A recent study published in Cancer Cell reveals that YTHDF3 plays a significant role in the spread of cancer to the brain, with increased expression correlating with poor survival outcomes. The gene is required for multiple steps in the brain metastatic process and may provide a target for new drugs.
Researchers at VCUarts and Massey Cancer Center developed a digital life review therapy, 'VoicingHan,' which improved symptoms and spiritual well-being in patients. The project was recognized for its innovative approach to palliative care.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that for every two COVID-19-related deaths, a third American dies due to the pandemic. The study also suggests that state policies on reopening early contributed to summer surges in Sun Belt states.
A new study found that Pinterest's moderation of vaccine-related content led to a significant shift in search results, with more accurate information about the HPV vaccine and its benefits. Despite this, limiting search results may contribute to confusion or an information vacuum.
A VCU study reveals an experimental cancer drug called AR-12 may be effective against SARS-CoV-2, inhibiting viral infection and replication. The oral treatment has shown promise in previous studies, including against other viruses like Zika and influenza.
A study published by VCU researchers found a significant increase in nonfatal opioid overdose visits to the Richmond emergency department during March-June 2020, with a 123% rise from 2019 data. The surge occurred despite a lower-than-average number of overall visits during this period.
A national study found a 12-fold increase in remote delivery of mental health care as psychologists shifted to telepsychology due to the pandemic. Many expect to continue treating patients remotely after the pandemic ends.
Researchers, including Masoud Manjili, suggest that COVID-19 should be treated as an acute inflammatory disease due to dysregulated immune responses. Effective treatment strategies involve modulating inflammation without compromising the adaptive immune response.
A study found that early marriage can exacerbate risky alcohol use among individuals with a high genetic predisposition, contradicting the traditional view of marriage as a protective factor. The research suggests that early life events may not be as protective against poor mental and physical health outcomes as previously thought.
Researchers found that only 65% of excess deaths were attributed to COVID-19, with over a third linked to other causes. Deaths from heart disease, diabetes, and stroke spiked in states hardest hit by the virus.
A recent study reveals a new magnetic state called skyrmion, which can be manipulated using electric fields to create more compact and efficient nanomagnetic devices. This breakthrough could lead to significant improvements in computer performance and reduce energy consumption.
Researchers discovered that lumefantrine, an FDA-approved anti-malarial drug, can inhibit the genetic element Fli-1 controlling resistance to radiation and chemotherapy in glioblastoma multiforme. Lumefantrine also suppresses tumor cell growth and inhibits key processes regulating cancer invasion and spread.
A VCU study examines 348 psychological manipulations and finds that roughly 42% have no validity evidence, while others are validated in limited ways. The study suggests that many psychological experiments rely on an untested foundation, prompting recommendations for experimenters to improve their practices.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University will develop next-generation rechargeable batteries with a potential 300-500 cycle lifespan. The project aims to reduce costs and safety risks while increasing battery life.
Effective leadership is driven by four distinct mindsets: growth, learning, deliberative, and promotion. Leaders with these mindsets are more likely to engage, navigate change, and lead effectively. Prioritizing mindset development can significantly impact leadership effectiveness.
A new study finds that mindfulness arises from the interaction between individuals and their situations, rather than being a stable psychological property. The research, which included over 558 participants, reveals three key motivational forces: metacognitive beliefs, mental fatigue, and situational appraisal.
A team of experts re-examines the original estimate that e-cigarettes are '95% less risky' or '95% less harmful' than combustible cigarettes. They found it outdated, misleading, and invalid, citing changes in e-cigarette devices and liquids that increase potential harms.
A phase 2 clinical trial has demonstrated an effective alternative to mastectomy for breast cancer patients experiencing recurrence after initial lumpectomy and whole-breast radiation. The treatment involved a second lumpectomy followed by partial breast reirradiation, resulting in long-term cancer control and low toxic side effects.
A global clinical trial has demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of an oral medication to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic liver disease. The treatment, obeticholic acid, showed the ability to reverse liver scarring in patients most at risk for irreversible liver damage.
A new VCU study finds that mortality among 25 to 64 year-olds is increasing, particularly in Rust Belt states and Appalachia. The trend of rising death rates is linked to causes such as drug overdoses, alcohol abuse, and suicides, as well as organ system diseases.
Broadening diversity among participants enhances genomic studies' potential to uncover disease causes and treatments. The Psychiatric Genomics Consortium provides guidance on analyzing diverse data, highlighting opportunities, challenges, and solutions.
A new study published in JAMA found that treating septic patients with intravenous vitamin C infusions significantly reduced mortality and improved recovery times. The trial showed a 30% reduction in mortality at day 28 compared to the placebo group, and patients spent three fewer days in the ICU.
A study by researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University found that individuals with psychopathic traits have greater levels of gray matter density in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, a region involved in self-regulatory processes. This increased density is associated with improved impulse control and reduced antisocial behavior....
A VCU-led team, including professors from several institutions and two companies, is developing an open network for molecular sciences data using AI. The goal is to create a platform for combining and analyzing data from academia, industry, and government, enabling scientists to make predictions and designs with more accuracy.
Oncologists suggest using nab-paclitaxel instead of paclitaxel prior to surgery for high-risk breast cancer patients, potentially improving long-term outcomes and reducing disease recurrence. This approach may be particularly beneficial for women with hormone receptor positive, HER-2 negative breast cancer.
Researchers at VCU University identified a fundamental factor in maintaining stable multicellular structures: the LINC complex. The study found that disrupting this complex's mechanical properties can lead to rapid cell movement, abnormal division, and collapse of tissue structures.
A new study led by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers reveals that structurally complex forests in the eastern US outperform simpler ones in carbon sequestration. The discovery suggests that a forest's arrangement of vegetation is a key factor in its ability to absorb and store carbon.
Researchers discovered that DBC1 protein helps regulate normal anti-cancer functions and that restoring its expression can prevent cancer development and increase therapy effectiveness. The study found that maintaining DBC1 levels in cancer cells exposed to certain drugs triggers a substantially increased response to treatment.
Scientists at VCU Massey Cancer Center identified key biological pathways regulating tumor cell spread to vital organs. They discovered the SRC signaling pathway is highly activated in breast cancer metastases, warranting targeted therapies.