News on doctoral training and the researchers it produces. Covers PhD and fellowship programs, physician-scientist training, and major training investments.
A new study reveals that both amyloid-beta plaque deposits and elevated levels of the altered protein p-tau are required for clinical decline in Alzheimer's disease. The presence of both is associated with significant clinical decline over three years, highlighting p-tau as a potential target for new therapies.
Lloyd L. Anderson and Holly A. LaVoie receive SEBM's 2012 Distinguished Scientist Award for their groundbreaking contributions to biomedicine. The awards ceremony will take place on April 22nd in San Diego, honoring these pioneering scientists.
Researchers found that early treatment can significantly improve outcomes for a rare and often undiagnosed form of encephalitis. The study analyzed 565 cases of Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis and determined that second-line therapy improves outcomes compared to repeating treatments or no additional treatments.
A joint study by Group Health Research Institute and Bastyr University found that type 2 diabetes patients receiving naturopathic care had lower blood-sugar levels and improved moods. Naturopathic physicians provided counseling on diet, exercise, and stress management to add to conventional care.
Researchers created lab-made heart cells from patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, exhibiting abnormal structure and response to calcium signals. The cells responded to beta blocker treatment and gene therapy approach, offering potential for improving drug screening and saving lives.
Gladstone scientists have made a groundbreaking medical breakthrough in mice, transforming scar-forming cardiac cells into beating heart muscle. The research may have broad human-health implications and could provide an innovative alternative to heart transplants.
Two University at Buffalo studies found that giving children more toy choices increases their physical play time by nearly 200% for girls. The research also showed that providing autonomy and mastery in toy selection motivates children to be physically active, especially when combined with exergames.
Researchers will investigate four cellular processes using Neurospora fungi to develop general principles of coupled network dynamics. The goal is to improve care for patients with abdominal trauma or gut pathogens exposure. The project aims to elucidate potential methods for enhanced disease treatment and trauma care.
A new 13-posture Tai Chi designed for wheelchair users has been developed to promote mobility, self-esteem and overall health. The program was featured in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and has shown benefits for individuals with disabilities, including lower back and hip movements, upper body mobility and internal circulation.
A study has identified a promising treatment approach for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), a highly aggressive childhood cancer. The dual PI3K gamma/delta inhibitor CAL-130 significantly prolonged survival in mouse models and prevented proliferation of human T-ALL cells, setting the stage for clinical trials.
A team from UNC Health Care has developed a broad-based test to measure the activation of protein kinases, enabling the measurement of drug resistance in cancer. The test can identify combinations of drugs that block resistance, offering personalized therapies for breast cancer.
A review article highlights the need for more comprehensive health assessments in young adult cancer survivors, who are living longer and experiencing late effects from treatment. The study concludes that traditional tools created for adult-onset cancer are insufficient for this population, requiring a broader range of measurement.
A UNC-led team reveals that gene switches don't simply flip on or off, but instead exhibit dynamic binding behavior involving stable and transient states. This discovery offers new insights into gene regulation and potential applications in genetic medicine.
Scientists have discovered that chromosomes fold into a series of contiguous 'yarns,' grouping genes and regulatory elements together to facilitate coordinated development. This domainal organization allows for the precise orchestration of gene activity, but also creates a challenge when mutations disrupt this structure.
A new breast cancer rehabilitation model proposes a prospective surveillance approach to address physical issues, promoting reduced impairment, improved function, and increased exercise participation. The model aims to integrate disease treatment with rehabilitation and exercise interventions for better survivorship care.
Researchers found a strong association between elevated pulse pressure and an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease in Alzheimer's patients. The study suggests that targeting the pulsatile component of blood pressure may offer new treatment implications for Alzheimer's patients.
Researchers developed a new method to create 3D pancreatic beta-cell clusters that live longer and secrete more insulin than single cells. This breakthrough advances the study of pancreatic diseases like diabetes and enables testing of novel therapies.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discover p75NTR's role in controlling glucose metabolism, finding that blocking this receptor enhances insulin's effectiveness. This breakthrough may lead to new therapies for Type 2 diabetes, a global health problem affecting over 20 million Americans.
Scientific discoveries reveal flavonoids in dark chocolate may reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and even prevent colon cancer. Researchers also explore the role of proteins and peptides in flavor development and potential benefits for cardiovascular health.
A Stanford study shows a single antibody can shrink human tumors in mice by blocking a protein flag on cancer cells. The treatment achieved dramatic responses in various types of cancers, including breast, ovarian, colon, bladder, and prostate cancers.
The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) recognized outstanding achievements in medical ultrasound at the 2012 Annual Convention. Awards were presented to individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth and scientific progress of medical ultrasound.
A new study by the University of California, San Diego, suggests that regular chocolate eaters are actually thinner than those who don't consume chocolate regularly. The research found a modest but significant association between chocolate consumption and lower body mass index, regardless of calorie intake or exercise habits.
Researchers have discovered a new species of scorpion in Death Valley National Park, California. The species, Wernerius inyoensis, is small and closely related to other species found in Joshua Tree National Park and along the lower Colorado River.
Researchers found that removing specific molecules can improve recovery from induced strokes in mice, even days after the event. The treatment may work as a long-term solution for patients who cannot receive current stroke treatment tPA.
Researchers found structural differences in brains of healthy carriers of the CNTNAP2 gene variant, which may contribute to increased vulnerability for autism. The study suggests that genetic variations can affect brain connectivity and signaling, leading to functional abnormalities characteristic of neuropsychological disorders.
Research finds that a supportive supervisor can significantly reduce employee absenteeism, even in hazardous work environments. Employees who feel supported by their supervisors are less likely to miss work due to perceived job hazards or peer pressure.
Researchers have developed a mutated version of the IL-2 protein that enhances its anti-cancer efficacy while reducing severe side effects. The new molecule, dubbed Super-2, has been shown to outperform natural IL-2 in slowing tumor growth and minimizing pulmonary edema.
A new study by Jason Q. Purnell found that individuals who perceive discrimination are more likely to smoke, with workplace discrimination being a significant factor. The research highlights the importance of addressing discrimination in health care settings and workplaces to improve smoking cessation rates.
A study led by UCSF researchers found that women with mild retinopathy are more likely to experience cognitive decline and related brain changes. The findings suggest retinopathy could serve as a simple eye screening tool for detecting early stages of vascular disease.
Recent generations, including millennials, are less interested in community issues, politics, and environment. A 40-year study of young adults found a decline in political participation, concern for others, and interest in saving the environment.
A Stanford researcher used an integrative 'omics' profile to discover and track his own type-2 diabetes onset, demonstrating the potential of personalized medicine. By analyzing his DNA, RNA, proteins, metabolites, and immune system responses, he was able to identify the disease early and make lifestyle changes to prevent further damage.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience shows that EpoD prevents further neurological damage and improves cognitive performance in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The drug acts by stabilizing microtubules, potentially improving nerve-cell function in AD and other diseases.
A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that 10% of patients with chronic kidney disease did not experience progressive kidney dysfunction, and 3% demonstrated improved kidney function. The study suggests that some cases of CKD may be reversible, providing hope for patients with this condition.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that relationship satisfaction is linked to men's ability to read their female partner's positive emotions correctly. Women who correctly understood that their partners were upset during an incident reported being happier in their relationships.
A recent study by Mitchell S. McKinney and J. Brian Houston found that voters are more likely to see a candidate's viability as a key factor in making their decision, rather than electability. This focus on party viability may explain why some Republican candidates struggle to gain traction despite strong debate performances.
The National Sleep Foundation's 2012 poll found that 1 in 4 train operators and 23% of pilots admit to sleep-related job performance problems. Sleepiness has also been linked to safety issues, car accidents, and reduced workday sleep satisfaction.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that epicatechin-enriched cocoa improved mitochondrial structure in patients with advanced heart failure and type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that treatment with epicatechin-rich cocoa may improve exercise capacity in these patients.
A University of Leicester study found that long periods of sitting increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in women, with higher levels of insulin and inflammatory chemicals detected in sedentary individuals. The research highlights the importance of reducing sitting time for women to prevent chronic disease.
Researchers discovered lead's impact on brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) production, impairing synapse development and function. Small amounts of lead can impede or reverse vesicle transport, while curbing BDNF gene transcription through the MeCP2 protein.
Researchers from five states and Canada are studying cellular-level processes that control uterine muscles, air pollution's effect on pregnancy, and the causes of preeclampsia. The goal is to lower the nation's preterm birth rate to 9.6% by 2020.
Research found that impulsive children with attention problems tend to play more video games. Children who spend lots of time gaming also develop impulsivity and attention difficulties. The study collected data from over 3,000 children in Singapore.
Researchers at Tufts University have combined two peptides to successfully stimulate wound healing. The combination promotes blood vessel growth, tissue re-growth, and cell migration, demonstrating a 50% increase in blood vessel wall development.
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) recognizes outstanding individuals for their contributions to gerontology education, research, and practice. The Clark Tibbitts Award honors colleagues near retirement or recently retired who have provided leadership in AGHE projects.
Researchers discovered significant brain development differences in 6-month-old high-risk infants who later developed autism compared to those who did not. Infants with autism showed elevated white matter fiber tract development at 6 months, followed by slower changes over time.
A 6-month program involving weekly peer meetings, consultations with primary care providers, and family meals resulted in less weight gain, improved body image, and healthier habits among teenage girls. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, showed modest but significant weight changes compared to usual care.
A study found that making one lunch line a convenience line with healthy grab-and-go foods increased sales of nutritious options by 18% and decreased consumption of unhealthy foods by nearly 28%. This approach helped students take more milk, leading to a share of healthier foods increasing from 33% to 36%.
A study by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine found that women who deliver or intend to deliver outside of hospitals have a lower risk of obstetric intervention. However, newborns intended for home births are at a higher risk of neonatal seizures compared to hospital births.
The new journal will publish original research articles, review articles, and other content on a range of scientific topics. All articles will be fully open access and published online within 4 weeks.
A significant minority of physicians admitted to not fully disclosing medical errors due to fear of lawsuits and telling a patient something untrue. The study highlights the need for open and honest communication between doctors and patients.
Researchers found a proactive test-and-treat strategy significantly reduced malaria prevalence, with a sixfold decrease in 2008-2009. The strategy also provided indirect protection to household members and could be targeted to hot spots for further reductions.
The ARVO Foundation for Eye Research has awarded $40,000 fellowships to Balamurali K. Ambati and Stephen H. Tsang to conduct age-related macular degeneration (AMD) research. The fellowships aim to develop therapeutics and personalized medicine approaches for AMD.
The University of California, Riverside has awarded nine first-year graduate students $30,000 annual stipends for two years to support their pursuit of Ph.D.s in STEM fields. The fellowships aim to increase the number of ethnically underrepresented students completing doctoral degrees.
Researchers have discovered new mechanisms by which RNA drugs can control gene activity, including binding to Argonaute proteins and other forms of non-coding RNAs. This breakthrough provides exciting new options for targeting emerging forms of non-coding RNAs and pre-mRNAs.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that family companions who regularly attend physician office visits with older adults can significantly impact health care quality. The study discovered that three-quarters of consistently accompanied older adults were accompanied by the same companion over time, sugg...
High levels of TNF receptors in the blood increase diabetes patients' risk of developing kidney problems by three- to five-fold. Measuring blood levels of TNF receptors may help predict which patients' kidneys are in jeopardy, and targeting TNF receptors may help protect them.
Two studies published in Nature demonstrate the power of multi-isotope imaging mass spectrometry (MIMS) in tracking cell division, lipid metabolism, and protein turnover in various organisms, including humans. MIMS enabled researchers to non-invasively track biological processes with high resolution.
Researchers have discovered a novel B cell that produces the growth factor GM-CSF, which stimulates other immune cells and helps protect against sepsis. The newly identified B cells, called innate response activator (IRA) B cells, may play a critical role in striking a balance between controlling infection and inflammation.
Researchers have identified a rare genetic mutation linked to a significantly higher risk of developing prostate cancer, particularly in men with a family history of early-onset disease. The mutation, called HOXB13, is associated with a 10-20 times higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
The foundation awarded $156,000 each to 18 new fellows and $100,000 to three Breakthrough Scientists recipients. The awards support novel ideas in cancer research, enabling the nation's most promising young scientists to pursue careers in cancer research.
A 6-week program called Mindful Restaurant Eating helps develop skills to reduce caloric and fat intake when eating out. Participants lost significantly more weight and had lower daily caloric intake after completing the intervention.