Why should people do research on how to make the world’s most dangerous viruses and bugs more lethal? The answer varies tremendously depending on who is asking and for what purpose the research is taking place. While experts differ in their views on how and where such work should be done, there is wide agreement that the barriers to entry for new biological creations, including ones that could kill millions of people, are decreasing. George Church, Robert Winthrop Professor of Genetics, is quoted.
Popular weight-loss and workout supplements on sale in hundreds of vitamin shops across the nation contain a chemical nearly identical to amphetamine, the powerful stimulant, and pose dangers to the health of those who take them, according to a new study. Pieter Cohen, assistant professor of medicine at Cambridge Health Alliance, is the lead author of the study.
Claire McCarthy, assistant professor of pediatrics at Boston Children’s Hospital, authored this blog post about behavioral therapy for preschoolers with ADHD.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a Framingham biotechnology company, and an international research group are joining in a research initiative aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment for one of the deadliest forms of cancer. James Moser, associate professor of surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, is quoted.
A handful of weight-loss and sports supplements contain a never-before-tested ingredient that’s closely related to amphetamines not the plant extract indicated on their label, according to a new study. Pieter Cohen, assistant professor of medicine at Cambridge Health Alliance, led the research.
Taking the financial burden of organ donation off the shoulders of donors and their families is not only more fair, but it might also lead to more organs for transplant, experts say. Mildred Solomon, professor of anesthesia at Children’s Hospital Boston, is quoted.
Clinical pharmacists are part of a burgeoning number of recent medical interventions that aim to increase access to medical care. Across the country, patients can see a nurse or a pharmacist at new retail clinics, urgent-care clinics and kiosks. Ateev Mehrotra, associate professor of health care policy, is quoted.
An updated review of 11 popular commercial diets found that only Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers show evidence for effective long-term weight loss. Christina Wee, associate professor of medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, is quoted.
Spotting a narcissist in a crowd might be a fun pastime, but if you’re a researcher or a hiring manager, your job may actually depend on it. Although there’s been a lot of research – and public interest – in the narcissistic personality, it’s been less clear how narcissists may actually differ from the average Joe conversationally. Craig Malkin, instructor in psychology at Cambridge Health Alliance, is quoted.
Many other doctors think the annual physical is unnecessary and can even be harmful. Ateev Mehrotra, associate professor of health care policy, is quoted.