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E. Coli (yellow) attaches to a host cell using sticky fibersNew insights into the bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections appear to open up an opportunity for disabling a wide range of infectious bacteria. Researchers at the School of Medicine recently revealed how a protein known as PapD helps E. coli assemble sticky fibers called pili that allow the bacterium to latch onto and infect host cells. Scientists are using what they’ve learned to begin designing pilicides, new treatments that stop pili formation and disrupt the infection process.

Diagram and image from an experiment that proved SARS makes a protein in infected cellsAs public health officials in China brace for a potential resurgence in SARS (Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome) in connection with Chinese New Year on February 9, researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have published insights into a new protein that could be an important contributor to the SARS virus’ ability to cause disease and death.

Sen. Jim Talent, Michael DeBaun and Isaac Singleton Jr. help raise awareness about sickle cell disease at a recent stamp dedication ceremony.In sickle cell disease, red blood cells change from their normal round shape to a curved, or sickle-shape. Sickle-shaped cells become stuck in blood vessels, causing damage to tissues and organs. WUSM pediatric hematologist Michael DeBaun says that ongoing blood transfusion therapy is vitally important for children with sickle cell disease, and treatment requires a sufficient supply of blood from African-American donors. “Black History Month is an ideal time to encourage African-Americans to come out and donate blood,” he says.

Heather Parrott and Jay Webb measure accelerations on a frozen field.This month, more than 130 million people will tune their televisions to football’s biggest event, the Super Bowl. It’s not certain which team will win, but it’s a good bet that someone may be injured. In fact, injuries are common to football at every level. In recent years, the sport has focused on playing fields as a significant source of injury, and new surfaces have been developed. But are the new surfaces safer? Emergency medicine researchers at the School of Medicine have found that in terms of concussion risk, the new fields are no safer, and they may get worse over time.

After the fact, national and international leaders are often judged on one thing — their success. University College in Arts & Sciences’ 24th Annual Master of Liberal Arts (M.L.A.) Lecture Series will focus on “Leadership Successes and Failures” on Saturdays in February. Although the topic wasn’t chosen as a direct reflection of any current political […]

When exposed to drugs used to treat epilepsy in humans, roundworms lived longer and retained youthful functions longer than normal.More medical news

The Office of Human Resources is seeking nominations for the Gloria W. White Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes a staff member for exceptional effort and contributions that result in the enhancement of the University. Nominations must be submitted by Feb. 18. The annual award was named for the late Gloria W. White, who retired in […]

Photo by Robert BostonRuth Guzman receives the 2004 Dean’s Distinguished Service Award — the highest honor given to a medical staff member.

He was a professor of English and of Religious Studies in Arts & Sciences for nearly 40 years.

Photo by Mary ButkusVashon High School drummers perform during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Celebration in Graham Chapel.