News on doctoral training and the researchers it produces. Covers PhD and fellowship programs, physician-scientist training, and major training investments.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a cheap and reusable diagnostic 'lab on a chip' with the help of an ordinary inkjet printer. The technology has the potential to enhance diagnostic capabilities around the world, especially in developing countries where access to early diagnostics is limited.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania found that Americans' dehumanization of Muslims and Mexican immigrants is linked to increased hostility, including support for violent collective action. Dehumanizing perceptions also hinder counterterrorism efforts.
Researchers followed adults in five countries and found no association between physical activity and weight gain. However, weight at the initial visit, age, and gender were significantly associated with weight change. The study provides new evidence that exercise is not a reliable method for controlling weight.
Scientists have identified antiviral T cells that can access HIV's germinal center hideouts using the CXCR5 molecule. These cells have stem cell-like properties and can infiltrate sites of ongoing viral replication, providing a potential target for therapeutic vaccines and HIV suppression.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found a cluster of sex-hormone-sensitive neurons in the mouse hypothalamus that induce attraction to the opposite sex. The study's findings may also be relevant to certain psychiatric illnesses.
Research finds that African immigrant mothers tend to focus on factual information about sex and reproduction, rather than cultural teachings or myths, when educating their daughters. This shift is attributed to increased exposure to liberal American culture and the desire for more accurate education.
Kaiser Permanente's telephone wellness coaching program has been shown to help members lose a significant amount of weight, changing their weight trajectories from upward to downward. The study found that participants lost clinically significant amounts of weight, which is important because even small amounts of weight loss can lead to...
A new study found that a 'prudent' diet rich in whole grains and fiber can lower the risk of colorectal cancer by altering the balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract. Participants with tumors containing Fusobacterium nucleatum had a sharply lower risk, but those without the bacteria received no extra protection.
For the first time, researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered precisely what LSD looks like in its active state when attached to a human serotonin receptor. This breakthrough reveals that the psychoactive effects of LSD last for so long because part of the receptor folds over the drug molecule, locking it in place.
Researchers used fMRI to track brain activity in 75 concussion patients and found altered patterns associated with worse symptoms months later. The study identified abnormal connectivity in frontal areas and visual networks, suggesting a higher risk for long-term post-concussive symptoms.
A new study reveals that male and female African-American veterans receiving outpatient mental health services have lower patient activation rates than White veterans. The study also found a weaker relationship between African-American veterans and their mental health providers, leading to significantly lower medication adherence rates.
A positive relationship between counselor and patient is key to successful alcohol treatment, according to a new study. Patients with stronger alliances reported fewer days of drinking and heavier drinking between sessions.
Researchers used imaging technology to track immune cells in living animals and identified a molecule required for their entry into the joint, which sets off inflammation. This discovery could lead to new treatments for inflammatory arthritis.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Tech found that the yeast protein Lsb2 forms a 'metastable' prion in response to elevated temperatures as a protective mechanism against stress. This discovery suggests that prions may play an adaptive role in cell survival.
Scientists have found the mechanisms behind a genetic change causing related diseases like Pearson's syndrome and Kearns-Sayre syndrome. The study reveals how errors in DNA replication result in large deletions of genetic material, leading to damage and mismanaged repair attempts.
A new UCSF study reveals that binge drinking can cause fatty liver, inflammation and enzyme changes within seven weeks. The researchers found that even a short period of excessive drinking resulted in liver dysfunction.
Research found that successful immunotherapy activates peripheral 'memory' immune cells, key to long-term defense against cancer. A system-wide immune response is crucial for broadening immunotherapy's effectiveness.
Researchers found that as cells age, their fat content changes and lipid-related genes become more actively expressed. Lipid triacylglycerols may help the body cope with oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species.
Researchers at UM SOM and SOD published 22 articles on infectious agents, vaccines, and immune system activation. Studies focused on Ebola, Clostridium difficile, biofilms, and other topics, advancing knowledge in infection and immunity research.
A Stanford-led study found that astrocytes, once thought to be supporting cells, can become toxic and destroy nerve cells, driving many neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery has profound implications for treating these diseases by blocking or countering the toxin secreted by harmful astrocytes.
New research from Emory University School of Medicine found that estrogen modulates gene activity to protect against post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Women with low estrogen levels during certain stages of their menstrual cycle may be more susceptible to PTSD, while high estrogen levels offer protection.
A study found that concession stands with healthier options saw a significant increase in sales and customer satisfaction. On average, 77% of students purchased healthier foods when available, while revenue also rose by 4%. This game-changing approach benefits both schools and students.
The Harrington Discovery Institute has announced grant funding for 11 physician-scientists from premiere universities. The recipients will receive up to $700,000 in capital to support the transition of their work into the private sector.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine used wearable sensors to monitor health data from 60 participants, revealing patterns of deviation that correlate with specific health problems. The study demonstrated the potential for wearable devices to monitor illness before symptoms appear, making them a valuable tool in precision health.
A UNC research team found that GRE scores don't forecast productivity or success in graduate programs within the experimental sciences. The study recommends devaluing or eliminating the GRE from applications for biomedical PhD candidates, citing a stronger correlation between graduation rates and first-author publications.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that almost one-third of Californians enrolling in individual insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) potentially missed opportunities to receive financial assistance. Enrollees who received certified enrollment counselor assistance were less likely to choose ineligible plans.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded nearly $4 million in fellowships to 16 early-career researchers, providing them with independence to pursue innovative projects. The foundation's Breakthrough Scientist Awards also recognize three researchers who have made paradigm-shifting breakthroughs in cancer research.
A team led by Massachusetts General Hospital has identified gene mutations associated with a rare congenital condition involving the absence of a nose, often accompanied by defects in eye and reproductive systems. The SMCHD1 gene was previously linked to muscular dystrophy, but not craniofacial abnormalities.
A Concordia University research team found that immigrants' positive orientation toward their new culture is key to forming friendships and social engagement. The study suggests that investing resources in supporting newcomers at the beginning of their integration journey can improve their chances of successful integration.
The American Psychological Association emphasizes the importance of psychologists in patient-centered medical homes, highlighting their role in improving health outcomes, decreasing costs, and enhancing patient experience. Behavioral health problems are prevalent among medical patients, compounding care delivery and effectiveness.
A recent study found that people who engage in physical activity on weekends have significantly lower all-cause mortality rates compared to those who are inactive. The research suggests that even short periods of moderate-intensity exercise can have health benefits, especially for individuals with busy weekday schedules. Experts recomm...
The Damon Runyon-Rachleff Innovation Awards support novel approaches to fighting cancer with $2.1 million grants to nine innovative early-career scientists. Their projects aim to significantly impact cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Researchers found that taking an hour-long nap after lunch significantly improved mental health outcomes in older Chinese adults. The study revealed that napping for about an hour was associated with better performance on cognitive tests compared to shorter or longer naps.
A recent study found that moderate and high levels of physical activity are associated with a decreased risk of heart disease and death from all causes among older adults. Exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, lowers blood pressure, and improves the ratio of unhealthy to healthy cholesterol in the body.
Mandatory ignition interlock laws are effective in reducing alcohol-involved fatal crashes, preventing approximately 1,250 fatalities. States with such laws have seen a seven percent decrease in the rate of fatal crashes with at least one driver having a blood alcohol content over the legal limit.
A new analysis found that hospitals with high readmission rates for Medicare patients with certain health conditions saw significant decreases after the passage of the Affordable Care Act's Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program. The poorest performing hospitals achieved the greatest reductions in readmission rates, suggesting that fi...
Researchers have developed small proteins called peptides that selectively block a certain type of G-protein signaling. These peptides will be used to study this process in cells and develop potential drugs for diseases involving abnormal G-protein signaling, including melanoma.
The Human Pancreas Analysis Program (HPAP) aims to study diabetes and pancreatic islets with unparalleled resolution. The program will procure and phenotype pancreatic tissues from individuals with or at risk for Type 1 diabetes.
A study of 2,394 adults aged 77-101 found that poor vision worsened over time, leading to decreased physical activity and mental stimulation. The researchers suggest that preventing vision loss may also help delay physical and cognitive decline.
A study found that around two-thirds of women with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa will eventually recover from their eating disorders. Recovery tends to happen more quickly for those with bulimia, while anorexia recovery takes longer on average.
A new breast cancer model developed by Kaiser Permanente researcher Matthew P. Banegas accurately predicts breast cancer risk in Hispanic patients based on data from Hispanic women. The model, added to the National Cancer Institute's online tool, corrects underestimation of breast cancer risk in Hispanic women.
Research at Roswell Park and University at Buffalo found that many hookah tobacco products have inaccurate labeling regarding nicotine content. The study revealed significant variations in nicotine and pH levels among different types of tobacco, highlighting the need for standardized testing and regulation.
Researchers found that B2 RNA interacts with EZH2 enzyme to activate heat-shock genes and induce the cellular response to stress. The study reveals a new mechanism for EZH2 to activate genes outside of its typical PRC2 complex.
Researchers have created a unique model of prostate cancer biology using patient tissue, allowing them to study the differences between normal and cancerous cells. The breakthrough uses conditional reprogramming, a laboratory technique that enables continuous growth of healthy and cancer cells indefinitely.
A Massachusetts General Hospital team has identified a key genetic pathway underlying metformin's ability to prevent and suppress cancer growth. By targeting the nuclear pore complex and enzyme ACAD10, metformin slows cell growth and extends lifespan in both human cells and the C.elegans roundworm.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered that a subset of neurons anticipates the effects of drinking by preparing the body for an influx of water seconds before consumption. This 'top-down' control helps regulate intake and prevent negative consequences.
Researchers identified paltering as a distinct form of deception where individuals tell truthful statements to create a mistaken impression. People tend to prefer paltering over lying by commission but face similar consequences when caught.
A new Stanford study utilizes smartphones to collect data on individuals' physical activity patterns, heart rate, and other cardiovascular metrics. The study found that not just the amount of activity matters but also the pattern, with those who were active throughout the day reporting better levels of cardiovascular health.
A new study from the University at Buffalo School of Management found that setting a low suggested donation amount increases the total number of donations, while a high default amount increases the average amount donors give. Nonprofit directors can use this information to tailor their messaging and potentially raise more money.
A new study by University of Colorado Denver researcher Sarah Horton challenges common portrayals of identity theft in workplaces dominated by undocumented immigrants. Many employers furnish workers with invented or borrowed work authorization documents, a practice she has termed 'identity loan'. This study highlights the active role e...
Researchers at UMass Medical School and the University of Toronto identify naturally-occurring proteins that inhibit Cas9 enzyme, providing greater control over genome edits. This discovery bolsters promise for therapeutic applications and better control over editing.
A study found that men eat more when in social situations, especially with spectators, due to the desire to demonstrate strength and virility. Women, on the other hand, tend to eat less with spectators and describe the experience as embarrassing.
Researchers presented evidence on a novel approach to personalizing ALL treatment by tailoring doses of asparaginase and mercaptopurine based on individual patient responses. A comprehensive genomic analysis also revealed distinct genetic subtypes in acute erythroid leukemia, paving the way for targeted therapies.
A study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics found that online group therapy can be as effective as face-to-face treatment for bulimia nervosa, with recovery pace slightly slower. The digital approach may help bridge the gap for patients without access to specialist care.
Jorge Cueto's PhD thesis focused on developing telescoping structural systems for 'rise on demand' flood walls, which can be installed below ground level and raised when flooding occurs. His company, Smart Walls Construction LLC, recently received a $225,000 NSF grant to test and commercialize the invention.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed new methods for mapping and measuring solid stress within tumors, which may lead to novel treatment strategies. These methods revealed that solid stress and stored elastic energy may be different in primary and metastatic tumors.
Peter Arner's research revealed processes that contribute to obesity and diabetes, including the turnover of fat tissue and the production of adipokines. His work also showed that fat cells are renewed relatively rapidly, regardless of weight loss, and that a molecule called TNFα alters leptin levels.
UCSF researchers found a way to pause the development of early mouse embryos for up to a month in the lab by inhibiting a master regulator of cell growth. The treatment could improve outcomes in assisted reproduction and regenerative medicine, while also potentially slowing cancer growth.
The study reveals a rapidly-acting glutamate neurotransmitter called Vglut2 that suppresses feeding behavior in mice. The discovery suggests an important but unknown neural component of the satiety system is missing from current models, which could help researchers find solutions to obesity.
Researchers successfully engineered human intestines with functioning nerves using pluripotent stem cells, enabling the study of severe intestinal nerve disorder Hirschsprung's disease. The technology also allows for testing new therapeutics in lab-engineered human intestine before clinical trials.