Medicine & Health

Five minutes in a scanner can reveal how far a child’s brain has come along the path from childhood to maturity and potentially shed light on a range of psychological and developmental disorders, scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have shown.

In a scientific study of secondhand smoke exposure in St. Louis bars and restaurants, researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that ventilation systems and “voluntary” smoke-free policies do not protect employees and customers from exposure to nicotine in the air.

The Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Washington University School of Medicine was dedicated Sept. 1. The Knights have long been leaders in supporting Alzheimer’s disease research and have committed more than $15 million to advance Alzheimer’s research at the School of Medicine.

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have scanned the entire genome of mice for genes that help build photoreceptors, the light-sensing cells of the eye. The results have already helped researchers identify the gene that causes a form of retinitis pigmentosa, a type of inherited blindness in humans.

Young athletes are especially vulnerable to concussions because their brains are still developing. A team of concussion experts, led by a Washington University sports medicine specialist, recommends that no athlete be allowed back into competition the day of injury. It may be weeks or even months before it’s safe to go back on the playing field.  

As anyone who has ever struggled to keep his or her eyes open after a big meal knows, eating can induce sleepiness. New research in fruit flies suggests that, conversely, being hungry may provide a way to stay awake without feeling groggy or mentally challenged.

Alan L. Schwartz, PhD, MD, recently received an honorary doctorate of medicine and surgery from the University of Helsinki that came steeped in nearly 400 years of tradition and ceremony and included some unique, symbolic gifts. 

Each year, first-year medical students are matched with a second-year medical student, usually based on similar interests, undergraduate school, hometown or personality, who acts as a mentor, or “big sib,” to help them get adjusted.

Victoria J. Fraser, MD, has been named interim head of the Department of Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Renowned scientists from across the country will share their knowledge on biomedical research at the BioMed 21 Symposium Monday, Sept. 27, at Washington University School of Medicine.