News on doctoral training and the researchers it produces. Covers PhD and fellowship programs, physician-scientist training, and major training investments.
The 11th Annual Rett syndrome Symposium saw a record turn-out of nearly 150 attendees, including leading scientists, researchers, families affected by the disease, and volunteers. The event featured sessions on treatment strategies and Autism Spectrum Disorders, with new collaborations and relationships forged among participants.
Experts in pathology are advocating for a comprehensive training program to integrate genomics and personalized medicine into daily practices. The proposed curriculum would cover laboratory medicine, genetic counseling, and health information technology, enabling pathologists to serve as primary consultants for physicians and patients.
Engineered allosteric regulation provides precise control of kinase activity in living cells, enabling scientists to understand cellular processes and dissect the functions of kinases. This new method has exciting applications in basic research and promises to open doors to new scientific insights into cancer and other human diseases.
A study by Case Western Reserve University found that using a composite infection prevention score predicts lower postoperative infection risk. The study suggests that hospitals should report on multiple measures rather than individual ones for more accurate predictions.
A genome-wide study has identified four common gene variants associated with blood levels of vitamin D and an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. Individuals inheriting multiple risk-associated variants had more than twice the risk of vitamin D deficiency as those without these variants.
The Reaxys PhD Prize awarded Thomas Maimone, Hiroyuki Miyamura, and Robert Phipps for their groundbreaking research. The winners were selected from over 300 submissions based on originality, innovation, and publication quality.
Researchers developed a detailed metabolic profile of exercise effects, revealing changes in over 20 metabolites reflecting sugar, fat, and amino acid processing as fuels. These findings have implications for optimal training programs, nutritional supplements, and potential treatments for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A Kaiser Permanente study associates increasing BPA levels in urine with decreased sexual desire, difficulty having an erection, and lower overall satisfaction with sex life. The five-year study of 427 Chinese factory workers found a dose-response association between higher BPA exposure and male sexual dysfunction.
A research team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute found that yeast produce a plant hormone called indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) that can trigger fungal cells to become more infectious. The hormone is known to regulate plant growth, but its presence in sufficient quantity within the yeast's environment also triggers morphogenic transition...
Researchers at UB and CDC develop gold nanorod delivery system for immune-boosting RNA molecule that targets influenza virus, promoting interferon production and inhibiting viral replication. The therapy has potential to treat a range of infectious diseases, including H1N1, avian flu and Ebola.
A study analyzing 2,575 Dutch transplant candidates found that kidneys from donors after cardiac death provided a 56% higher chance of survival for patients. While the initial failure rate was higher, long-term benefits outweighed the risks, suggesting an expansion of available organs.
The study found a 19 percent decrease in common infections among children who drank DanActive, with specific reductions in gastrointestinal and upper respiratory tract infections. However, the reduction did not result in fewer missed school days or activities.
A randomized trial found that combining behavioral counseling with varenicline (Chantix) increases smoking cessation success. The study shows web- and phone-based counseling to be effective tools when combined with Chantix, improving early cessation rates and medication adherence.
A new technique developed by UNC researchers uses light to manipulate protein behavior in cells, enabling precise control of cell movement. This discovery has significant implications for understanding embryonic development, nerve regeneration, and cancer metastasis.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have discovered a micro-RNA, miR-33, that regulates key genes involved in cellular cholesterol transport. Inhibiting miR-33 may enhance cholesterol removal from tissues and raise HDL levels.
Dr. Patrick Sullivan is leading a research project to identify genetic links to psychosis in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. He will analyze DNA from four families with a high number of affected members to uncover rare genetic variants and compare them to unrelated samples.
The University of Missouri received an $8.5 million grant to explore the role of microcirculation in cardiovascular diseases, a leading cause of death. The research will focus on the smallest blood vessels in the body and their contribution to health and disease.
A new study found that daily volume of physical activity, measured by steps/day, is related to positive health outcomes and lower prevalence of MetS. Adults who maintain an active lifestyle by accumulating more steps are likely to have a lower risk of CVD factors.
The American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair (ASNTR) has awarded Dr. Shinn-Zong Lin with the 2010 Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award for Brain Repair in recognition of his significant research contributions in neuroscience. Dr. Lin's work focuses on neural and stem cell transplantation therapy for stroke and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have used a healthy person's complete genome sequence to predict their risk for dozens of diseases and how they will respond to common medications. The study provides a cumulative risk report that can help physicians make concrete clinical recommendations, improving the efficiency of medicine.
A randomized clinical trial found that Octreotide slowed the growth of cyst-filled livers in patients with polycystic liver disease (PLD) caused by autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The treatment also improved kidney function and health perception in these patients.
Research suggests that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased disability, brain atrophy, and cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis patients. Studies found that higher levels of vitamin D3 and its metabolism byproducts were linked to better scores on disability tests and fewer lesions on MRI scans.
A symposium at the American Association of Anatomists' Annual Meeting explores the evolution of human evolution through ancient mummies, skulls, and bones. Modern technology enables researchers to examine mummified remains without harming tissue, providing insights into disease evolution and death causes.
Pericytes, contractile cells surrounding capillaries, use mechanical forces to initiate angiogenesis, a crucial process in cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. The study suggests that local contractions could serve as initiating mechanical signals influencing angiogenesis.
A new WIC nutrition education curriculum in California showed significant improvements in participants' recognition of education messages on healthy eating behaviors. Fruits and vegetables, whole grain consumption, and lower-fat dairy intake increased after the education, suggesting a favorable impact on family nutrition.
Researchers have identified a gene, MTHFD1L, that increases the risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The study found individuals with a specific variation in this gene are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's as those without it.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital found that electronic health record systems have limited ability to improve measures such as patient mortality and surgical complications. The study suggests that hospitals need to pay special attention to how they implement these systems to achieve significant improvements.
According to a study by Ulrich Orth and colleagues, self-esteem rises steadily as people age until retirement, then declines. Higher income, better health, and satisfying relationships contribute to maintaining self-esteem throughout life.
A 12-week self-guided program helps binge eaters stop binging for up to a year, saving an average of $447 per person per year. The program reduces costs on weight loss programs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.
A study by the Mongan Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital found that women conducting research in life sciences receive lower levels of compensation than their male counterparts, even after controlling for professional activities and academic accomplishments. Women also take on more administrative tasks, leading to a pay gap of...
Scientists at UCSF successfully created a new period of brain plasticity in juvenile mice by transplanting embryonic cells into the visual cortex. This approach may one day be used to repair neural circuits following injury or disease. The findings suggest that inhibitory neurons play a crucial role in regulating this plasticity period.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed an electrostatic levitation chamber to study the glass transition, a phase transition from liquid to solid. The 'microscope' uses neutrons as a probe to observe atoms in suspended drops of liquid as they cool and solidify.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that risky drinkers report poorer health-related practices, including stress relief with alcohol and cigarettes, unhealthy eating, and not regularly seeing doctors. Moderate drinking was associated with better health and more likely medical care seeking.
A Norwegian PhD candidate's study sheds light on the struggles of mothers with eating difficulties, including feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. Despite being kept under wraps, these women face significant challenges in maintaining a double life, affecting their relationships and daily activities.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a key cellular defect that can lead to cancer susceptibility and are developing a new generation of inhibitory drugs to correct this defect. The new drug, PP242, has shown promising results in clinical trials and holds promise for treating various types of cancer.
A Stanford University computer scientist developed a method that uses mathematical logic and large public databases to find new genes involved in stem cell development. In just milliseconds, the technique identified 62 genes that match expected patterns, providing clues for researchers on where to look next.
A recent study published in Diabetes Care found that starting metformin treatment within three months of diabetes diagnosis significantly increases its effectiveness. This is the first real-world comparison of metformin failure rates and has important implications for newly diagnosed patients worldwide.
A randomized trial found that massage eased anxiety symptoms, similar to psychotherapy or medications, but not more effective than simple relaxation. The benefits of massage may be due to a generalized relaxation response.
Springer has partnered with the Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine (KSNM) to publish the journal Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. The journal will be available in both print and electronic formats, providing a platform for high-quality research and discussion on nuclear medicine and related sciences.
Researchers successfully used a new technique to pinpoint changes in one cell type that flagged the likelihood of kidney-transplant recipients rejecting their new organs. The algorithm enabled doctors to better identify the onset of cancers, genetic disorders, and other problems by analyzing whole-blood samples.
Researchers found that HbA1c levels accurately predict future diabetes and stroke, heart disease, and all-cause mortality. The study identified people with HbA1c levels between 5.0 to 5.5 percent as within the normal range, while those at a level of 6.5 percent or greater are considered diabetic.
People with Parkinson's disease struggle to recognize emotions in others' faces and voices. Deep brain stimulation appears to exacerbate this issue, particularly with fear and sadness expressions.
Researchers found that estrogen inhibits MLK3, a protein that causes normal cell death, leading to uncontrolled growth of cancer cells and resistance to chemotherapy. This discovery could lead to new cancer-fighting drugs.
A new study reveals that only half of US adults with prediabetes report trying to lose weight or exercise more, highlighting a need for increased awareness and prevention measures. The researchers also found that adults with prediabetes are more likely to be male, older, and have lower educational attainment.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found a strong relationship between healthy eating and prolonged ovarian cancer survival. Higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, and healthier grains was associated with improved survival rates.
The March of Dimes has awarded $2.6 million to six scientists studying the causes of preterm birth, with a focus on predicting and preventing premature labor. The funding aims to improve baby health by understanding genetics, environment, and vitamin D's role in preventing preterm birth.
An international group of experts has developed a uniform classification system for diabetic nephropathy, categorizing the condition into four progressive classes to guide clinicians and researchers. The new system aims to standardize definitions of different classes and improve reporting of cases among medical centers.
Researchers found a new genetic risk factor, TMEM106B, associated with frontotemporal lobar degeneration, a subtype of early-onset dementia. The study suggests that alterations in this protein may contribute to the development of FTLD.
A study found that intensive health behavior counseling is effective, but cost can be a significant barrier. When free services were offered, more patients participated, while charges led to a decrease in referrals. Policymakers are advised to eliminate cost as a barrier to support clinical-community partnerships.
A recent study found that teenagers and young adults are consuming significantly fewer whole grains than recommended, with an average intake of less than one serving per day. Factors influencing whole grain consumption include socio-environmental, personal, and behavioral factors such as home availability, taste preferences, and fast-f...
Researchers found that participants who attended AA meetings more frequently had fewer depression symptoms and less drinking compared to those with less AA participation. The study suggests that the social aspects of AA may contribute to improved mental well-being and abstinence.
The report highlights the need to increase support for Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, raise tobacco taxes, and provide comprehensive treatment for tobacco dependence. Decreasing tobacco advertising, promoting health warnings, and regulating products are also key recommendations to reduce tobacco use.
The foundation provides three-year fellowships with $140,000 each to support groundbreaking projects in basic and translational cancer research. The recipients aim to pursue careers in cancer research by investigating key topics such as epigenetic alterations, protein function, and cellular behavior.
Outfielders may not predict a ball's landing point based on its flight path, but instead track the ball's motion to catch it. The study found that outfielders adjust their movements depending on the ball's elevation angle and bearing.
Researchers identified a novel class of compounds that inhibit HCV replication by disrupting a critical virus-initiated activity, offering a prospect for inhibiting viral replication with minimal toxicity. The compounds were found through an in vitro assay and demonstrated effectiveness against HCV's replication cycle.
Children with higher PBDE levels scored lower on mental and physical development tests, particularly at four years old. Prenatal exposure to flame retardants may have important public health implications if replicated in other North American populations.
A study of nearly 10,000 patients found that those receiving higher opioid doses were 9 times more likely to overdose compared to those on lower doses. The researchers strongly associate the risk with prescribed dose, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing practices.
A major international study has identified 10 new gene variants associated with blood sugar or insulin levels, including two that increase type 2 diabetes risk. The study provides additional information on glucose regulation and potential therapeutic targets for the disease.
Research suggests that migraines and depression share a common genetic link, particularly in those with migraine with aura. The study found that 56% of migraine traits are explained by genetic factors, with heritability scores indicating a shared genetic pathway between the two disorders.
A worldwide study analyzed data from 69 countries and found small but significant gender differences in math skills, with girls performing as well as boys when given the right educational tools. The research highlights the need for schools, teachers, and families to encourage girls' math learning.