Race origins and health disparites
Research by Nina T. Harawa reveals the complexities of racial categories in understanding health disparities, highlighting the need for a historically informed approach to address these issues.
Doctoral Degrees
News on doctoral training and the researchers it produces. Covers PhD and fellowship programs, physician-scientist training, and major training investments.
Partner issues significantly influence women's sexual activity in later years, UCSF study shows
A UCSF study of nearly 2,000 middle-aged and elderly women reveals that physical problems are less likely to impact their sexual activity than their partner's health or interest. The study also shows significant racial differences in sexual desire, satisfaction, and activity.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 25, 2009
AUA Foundation names the 2009 Astellas Rising Stars in Urology award winners
The AUA Foundation has awarded the 2009 Astellas Rising Stars in Urology to William Roberts, MD and Edward Schaeffer, MD for their groundbreaking research projects on Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Phospholipase A2 signaling in prostate development. The award aims to support young urologists in pursuing careers in urologic research.
Study pinpoints novel cancer gene and biomarker
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered a cancer-causing gene, GOLPH3, which can spur cancer cell growth and is linked to effective treatment with rapamycin. The study also found that high levels of the protein may serve as a biomarker for tumors responding well to this chemotherapy drug.
Underweight and extremely obese die earlier than people of normal weight, study finds
A new study found that underweight people have the highest risk of dying, followed by extremely obese individuals. In contrast, overweight people had a lower risk of dying compared to their normal-weight counterparts.
Researchers to reveal aging's origins on global stage
Four leading biologists will present their research on the biological causes of aging, revealing that complex molecules become dysfunctional over time. The symposium aims to advance our understanding of aging and its relationship with age-associated diseases.
AOSSM presents prestigious research awards
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) presents eight research awards and two grants to support young researchers, clinicians, and scientists in orthopaedic sports medicine. The awards recognize outstanding research papers in various categories, including basic science, clinical science, and excellence in research.
Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation awards prestigious fellowships to 17 top young scientists
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded prestigious fellowships to 17 outstanding postdoctoral scientists conducting innovative cancer research. The fellows will receive $140,000 each to work on projects aimed at improving cancer treatments and diagnostics.
Nationwide telemedicine networks are essential for successful health care reform
Well-designed telemedicine systems offer substantial benefits in improving access to quality healthcare, providing effective clinical decision support, promoting patient-centered care, and enhancing chronic disease management. The authors emphasize that telemedicine is a crucial component of successful healthcare reform.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateJun 18, 2009
Young adults not drinking enough milk
A study found that young adults decreased their calcium and dairy product intake as they entered their twenties, which can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis. The researchers suggest that interventions targeting families and adolescents should encourage milk consumption at meals and promote healthy eating habits.
Immune cells ameliorate hypertension-induced cardiac damage in mice
Researchers found that regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) can ameliorate hypertension-induced cardiac damage in mice by reducing inflammation, fibrosis, and abnormal heart rhythms. The study provides insight into the role of the immune system in organ damage during hypertension.
Study IDs benefit of donor SCT for adults with acute myeloid leukemia
Researchers analyzed 24 clinical trials involving over 6,000 AML patients to find that donor stem cell transplant (SCT) in first remission significantly improves survival and reduces disease relapse for those with intermediate-risk disease. This approach is now considered the preferred treatment for this group.
Fatty foods -- not empty stomach -- fire up hunger hormone
Research suggests that fatty acids from food, not body-produced fats, activate ghrelin in the stomach, informing the brain about available calories. This new model turns the current understanding of ghrelin on its head and points to a novel enzyme responsible for activation.
A new lead for autoimmune disease
Researchers discover halofuginone, a compound from traditional Chinese medicine, inhibits Th17 cells and reduces disease pathology in mouse model of autoimmunity. Halofuginone may offer a new treatment option for autoimmune disorders with potential for oral administration.
NIH funds work at WPI on regenerating heart tissue and preventing urinary tract infections
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have received NIH grants to advance their work on regenerating damaged hearts using stem cells and preventing urinary tract infections by analyzing cranberry juice's molecular mechanisms. The studies aim to develop new therapies for heart damage and UTIs, potentially replacing antibiotics.
Policy gurus advocate community-based approaches to senior housing
The Gerontological Society of America's Public Policy & Aging Report explores community-based approaches to senior housing, including home modification and aging-friendly communities. The report also examines the limitations of aging in place and critiques upscale age-restricted communities.
AIBS honors outstanding contributions to biology
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) recognizes Joseph Felsenstein, Robert T. Pennock, Bruce Alberts, Michael Pollan, Rita Colwell, and Chip Rowe for their significant positive contributions to the field of biology. The awards are presented to individuals who have made substantial scientific or educational impact.
Brains or beauty: New study confirms having both leads to higher pay
A new study by Timothy Judge and colleagues found that physical attractiveness has a significant impact on income, with good-looking individuals making more money, being better educated, and more confident. Intelligence still plays a stronger role in determining income, but having both traits can lead to higher pay.
Cognition already seriously impaired in first episode of schizophrenia
Researchers found significant cognitive problems exist in first-episode schizophrenia, affecting work, study, and social life. Early diagnosis may aid treatment and improve prognosis.
Traumatic brain injury haunts children for years with variety of functional problems: 2 studies
A longitudinal study of children with severe traumatic brain injuries found that they experienced lasting problems with day-to-day functioning, including behavioral issues and cognitive deficits. A meta-analysis of previous studies also showed that problems persisted over time, especially for those with more severe injuries.
NSF and Math Institutes announce partnership to create new jobs
The NSF and Math Institutes have created 45 postdoctoral fellowships to support the careers of young mathematical scientists. These positions will place highly trained researchers as teachers at community colleges and universities, as well as in business and industry, providing them with opportunities to apply their training.
UMMS researchers isolate first 'neuroprotective' gene in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
A genetic variant in the KIFAP3 gene has been linked to a significant increase in survival time for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The variant, found in over 1,800 individuals with ALS and nearly 2,200 unaffected controls, is associated with improved motor function and increased survival by 40-50 percent.
SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2009
Teach your children well: Focused, happier kids grow up to be healthier adults, study finds
A new study found that children's ability to stay focused on a task and react less negatively to situations at age 7 predicts better general health and fewer illnesses 30 years later. Supporting this idea, superior attention spans and positive outlooks in youth had the most significant effects on adult health.
Extreme makeover: Stanford scientists explore new way to change cell's identity
Researchers found skin cells can become muscle-like and vice versa by changing who they associate with, providing insight into genetic reprogramming. This discovery may lead to more efficient ways to create stem cells and treat diseases like diabetes.
Georgetown University's Howard J. Federoff, M.D., Ph.D., receives Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award
Howard J. Federoff has received the Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award from the American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair (ASNTR) for his significant contributions to the field of neural therapy and repair. The award recognizes his research on gene therapy and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Memory grows less efficient very early in Alzheimer's disease
Research reveals that people with emerging symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are less efficient at remembering high-value information. Clinicians may be able to train them to improve their memory by teaching strategic and selective encoding techniques.
Narcolepsy is an autoimmune disorder, Stanford researcher says
Researchers confirm that narcolepsy is an autoimmune disease caused by a specific immune cell variation. A study found that nearly 90% of patients with narcolepsy carry a variant of the human leukocyte antigen gene, which is also associated with other autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and juvenile diabetes.
People of higher socioeconomic status choose better diets -- but pay more per calorie
Research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that individuals with higher education levels consumed diets with lower energy density and higher nutrient content. These diets were also associated with lower costs per kilocalorie, but only among women with higher socioeconomic status.
UMass medical school researchers report oral delivery system for RNAi therapeutics
Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School describe a potent method to deliver therapeutic siRNA molecules orally, silencing genes in mice and showing promise for treating human diseases. The method uses yeast particles as a delivery shell, targeting specific cells and achieving gene silencing with minimal immune response.
Living outside the box: New evidence shows going abroad linked to creativity
New research by the American Psychological Association finds that living outside the box - literally - can boost creativity. Studies show that individuals who have spent time living abroad are more likely to come up with creative solutions to complex problems, such as a classic test of creative insight known as the Duncker candle problem.
SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 23, 2009
UCSF HIV/AIDS training program successfully promotes diversity
The UCSF Visiting Professor Program has provided training and mentoring to 40 visiting professors from minority universities, resulting in over $50 million in research funding and 425 scientific publications. The program accelerates careers and promotes interdisciplinary approaches to HIV/AIDS prevention research.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 23, 2009
Simple bedside test improves diagnosis of chronic back pain, could guide treatment
A simple bedside test developed by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers accurately distinguishes neuropathic pain from other types of chronic back pain. The Standardized Evaluation of Pain (StEP) assessment is a low-tech approach that outperforms existing screening tests and even MR imaging in identifying underlying pain mechanisms.
Modification of mutant huntingtin protein increases its clearance from brain cells
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered a strategy to remove abnormal huntingtin protein from brain cells, accelerating its breakdown and removal through normal cellular processes. This finding could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative disorders like Huntington's, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's diseases.
Young vegetarians may have healthier diets but could be at risk for disordered eating behaviors
Adolescent and young adult vegetarians tend to have better dietary intake and weight outcomes compared to non-vegetarian peers. However, they also face an increased risk of disordered eating behaviors such as binge eating and extreme unhealthy weight control measures.
Angiogenesis inhibitor improves brain tumor survival by reducing edema
The study found that treatment with cediranib reduced edema and improved survival in mice with glioblastoma tumors. Mice receiving the drug lived significantly longer than controls, despite continued tumor growth.
Groups share information in workplace, but not the 'right' information
A new analysis of 22 years of research shows that teams tend to discuss information they already know, and that 'talkier' teams are less effective. However, teams perform better when sharing new information and engaging in tasks where they come up with a correct answer rather than a consensual solution.
CellThera and WPI advance in regeneration study
The CellThera/WPI team will continue their joint efforts in regenerating mammalian muscle tissue under a one-year $570,000 DARPA contract. They aim to reprogram and engineer cells to replace damaged skeletal muscle and restore normal function.
Study shows moderate intensity walking means 100 steps per minute
A study found that a rate of at least 100 steps per minute achieves moderate intensity activity, supporting a simple pedometer-based recommendation of 3000 steps in 30 minutes. The research suggests using a single and simple pedometer-based guideline for effective health communication.
Contrary to widely held beliefs, romance can last in long-term relationships, say researchers
Researchers found that those with greater romantic love reported higher satisfaction and happiness in both short- and long-term relationships. Companion-like love was only moderately associated with satisfaction. Feeling secure in a partner's presence is key to maintaining romantic love.
Cellular discovery may lead to targeted treatment for rare form of anemia
University of Cincinnati researchers have identified a specific step in the biological chain of events leading to Diamond Blackfan anemia. They discovered that a ribosomal protein defect leads to abnormal activation of p53, causing premature death of red blood cells.
New test successfully identifies life-threatening heart disease
Researchers developed a new immunohistochemical test that accurately diagnoses ARVC, a condition characterized by muscle cell replacement with fatty deposits and fibrosis. The test has the potential to identify patients at risk of sudden death and exclude other causes of arrhythmias.
Regular family meals result in better eating habits for adolescents
Researchers found that adolescents with regular family meals had better diet quality, with increased intakes of vegetables, calcium-rich foods, and several nutrients. However, overall dietary adequacy was not achieved for the entire study sample.
When it comes to drinking, college men not looking for a 'girl gone wild'
A study of 3,616 college students found that women overestimated the amount of alcohol a typical guy would like his female friends to drink. Women who thought men preferred excessive drinking were more likely to engage in excessive drinking themselves.
Lack of ability does not explain women's decisions to opt out of math-intensive science careers
Women's career choices in math-intensive science fields are influenced by lifestyle needs and parental responsibilities. Despite having advanced mathematical abilities, women are underrepresented in these fields due to the demands of parenting and caregiving.
One-third of Americans lose sleep over economy
A new poll by National Sleep Foundation finds that 1/3 of Americans are losing sleep due to economic concerns and personal financial worries. The poll highlights the negative impact of inadequate sleep on health, safety, and productivity.
Study identifies new gene associated with ALS
Researchers identified a novel gene, FUS/TLS, associated with inherited amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the fourth gene implicated in familial forms of the disease. Mutations in this gene lead to abnormal protein deposits in motor neurons and are linked to varying inheritance patterns and severity.
Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation awards prestigious fellowships to 13 top young investigators
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded prestigious three-year fellowships to 13 outstanding postdoctoral scientists conducting basic and translational cancer research. The fellowships aim to encourage promising young investigators to pursue careers in cancer research, providing independent funding for innovative projects.
UCSF Gallo team reports hormone disorder drug could help drinkers stay sober
A study by UCSF researchers found that cabergoline, a hormone disorder drug, decreased alcohol consumption and relapse in rodents. The drug showed specificity for alcohol, not affecting general reward or pleasure.
Children in single-parent households and stepfamilies benefit from time with grandparents
Research found that adolescents in single-parent households and stepfamilies who spend more time with their grandparents experience better emotional and behavioral adjustment. They report reduced hyperactivity and improved peer relationships.
Scientists uncover indicator that warns leukemia is progressing to more dangerous form
Researchers at UC San Diego and Stanford University have identified a molecular mechanism that predicts the progression of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) to its more dangerous blast crisis stage. This discovery may enable physicians to make more accurate prognoses and improve treatment choices.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 2009
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education congratulates new fellows, awardees
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) honors 2009 fellows with fellow status for their leadership in gerontological/geriatric education. Additionally, AGHE awards various recognitions to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of gerontology.
March of Dimes provides $2.7 million in new funding for preterm birth research
The March of Dimes has awarded nearly $14 million in grants since 2009 to support innovative research on preterm birth. Researchers will investigate microbes, enzymes, and genetic factors to identify risk factors for prematurity and develop strategies to prevent it.
2008 AAAS Mentor Award goes to Sylvia T. Bozeman of Spelman College
Sylvia T. Bozeman, a professor at Spelman College, has been awarded the 2008 AAAS Mentor Award for her commitment to mentoring underrepresented students in mathematics. Since becoming chair of the mathematics department, 20 graduates have received doctoral degrees in mathematics or math education.
New test for mysterious metabolic diseases developed at Stanford/Packard
Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine have devised a new biological marker to monitor mitochondrial disorders, which cause organ failure, seizures, and premature death. The discovery enables researchers to hunt for treatments and helps physicians check patients' status before health crises erupt.
Minority health-care clinics separate but unequal
Researchers found that clinics serving higher proportions of minority patients tend to have more challenging work environments and organizational characteristics. This can lead to unfavorable patient and physician outcomes, including lower job satisfaction, increased stress, and burnout.
International study identifies gene variants associated with early heart attack
A large international study identified nine genetic regions linked to increased risk of early-onset myocardial infarction. The study analyzed data from 26,000 individuals in 10 countries and found significant associations with common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in nine genetic regions.
Mass. General, MIT and Harvard launch innovative effort to search for AIDS vaccine
The Ragon Institute aims to unlock the mysteries of the immune system to find new ways of preventing and curing human disease. Its initial focus will be on identifying effective immune responses in HIV-infected individuals and designing strategies to induce those responses.
Vascular drug found to improve learning and memory in middle-aged rats
A vascular drug has improved spatial learning and working memory in middle-aged rats, suggesting potential benefits for cognitive function in humans. The findings support the use of the drug as a cognitive enhancer for age- or neurodegenerative-related memory dysfunction.
Avoiding secondhand smoke during pregnancy
A new study of African-American women found that avoiding environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure early in pregnancy is crucial for reducing complications and improving outcomes. Social factors such as household smoking bans, the father's desire to have the baby, and social support play a significant role in ETS avoidance.
Blocking toxic effects could make clot-buster safer
Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine have found a way to block the toxic effects of tPA, a life-saving clot-busting drug used in acute stroke treatment. By blocking LRP1, a molecule that transmits inflammation signals triggered by tPA, the researchers were able to soften the drug's impact on the brain.