California Healthline: Health Care Research

CIRM Awards $69M to Calif. Scientists Studying Stem Cells

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Institute of Regenerative Medicine has awarded nearly $69.4 million in grants to scientists researching stem cells across the state. Jonathan Thomas, chair of CIRM's governing board, said that the agency has 52 research projects involving 33 diseases. San Francisco Business Times' "BiotechSF," KPCC's "KPCC News."

Database Aims To Help Researchers Analyze Medical Care Costs

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Health Care Cost Institute is compiling a database containing more than 3 billion de-identified medical claims from more than 33 million individuals. The project aims to help researchers conduct large-scale analyses of information on medical costs. Washington Post, Politico.

Bay Area Becoming Center of Health Care Innovation

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The combination of risk-takers, technology brainpower and teamwork has contributed to making the San Francisco Bay Area a leader in innovation in social media, tech product development and research. The same traits are turning the Bay Area into a mecca of inventive health care delivery.

Obama Administration Unveils Plan To Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration has announced a plan aimed at finding an effective way to treat and prevent Alzheimer's disease by 2025. Officials also launched a website offering information for families and caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Big Data Has Potential for Big Impact in Health Care Research, Delivery

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Big data -- the collection and manipulation of enormous amounts of information -- has the potential to change the way health care is researched and delivered, according to California health care experts.

Editorial: Cigarette Tax Hike Measure 'Good' for California

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A U-T San Diego editorial notes that although "we do not often support tax increases ... we support" Proposition 29, a June ballot initiative that would increase California's tax on cigarettes by $1 per pack to raise funds for cancer research and smoking prevention. The editorial argues that the measure is "good for public health. It's good for San Diego and California. And it's good for California kids." It concludes, "we strongly endorse and urge a 'yes' vote on Proposition 29." U-T San Diego.

Editorial Urges 'No' Vote on Tobacco Tax Hike Measure

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Merced Sun-Star editorial states that although "[w]e don't like being on the same side as Big Tobacco ... and we do not in any way endorse smoking," Proposition 29 -- a June ballot initiative that would increase California's tax on cigarettes by $1 per pack to raise funds for cancer research -- "is not good public policy or governance." It argues that "instead of using this new tax revenue to address one of the state's many unmet needs, it would create a new semi-independent bureaucracy and a mammoth new medical research program." Merced Sun-Star.

Study Highlights Treatment Challenges for Type 2 Diabetes

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Type 2 diabetes progresses more quickly and is harder to treat in children and teenagers than in adults, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The findings could foreshadow a major strain on the U.S. health care system because poorly controlled diabetes significantly increases the risk of costly medical conditions. New York Times et al.

UCSF Study Says Unmet Basic Needs Weaken HIV Progress

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Despite progress in the treatment and prevention of HIV, a UC-San Francisco study involving 288 homeless men with HIV finds that unmet basic needs -- such as shelter, regular meals and good hygiene -- had the largest effect on the physical and mental health of patients. A 2011 study involving homeless women had similar findings. San Francisco Chronicle.

Tobacco Firms Step Up Efforts To Defeat Cigarette Tax Hike Measure

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Tobacco firms have spent $21 million on efforts aimed at persuading voters to reject a June ballot measure that would raise the tobacco sales tax by $1 per pack. Most of the funding generated by the tax hike would go toward cancer research. San Jose Mercury News et al.

Sacramento Firm Nabs $5M for Stem Cell Harvesting

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sacramento-based SynGen announced that it received $5 million in funding from the San Francisco venture capital firm Bay City Capital to further develop its stem cell harvesting systems. SynGen will use the funding to develop, market and obtain regulatory approval for SynGen-1000, which harvests stem and progenitor cells for use in various treatments. Sacramento Bee.

Opinion: Big Tobacco Will Try To Sway Voters on Prop. 29

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a Sacramento Bee opinion piece, columnist Dan Morain notes that the tobacco industry "will spend tens of millions of dollars telling [voters] why Proposition 29 ... is a terrible idea." The June 5 ballot initiative would raise California's tobacco tax by $1 per pack and generate hundreds of millions of dollars for medical research and tobacco cessation, prevention and enforcement initiatives. Morain writes that many Californians "will find reasons to vote against it, courtesy of tobacco-funded ads," but that the "$441 million fund for research is one reason to vote for Proposition 29, so long as the money stays in California." Sacramento Bee.

Editorial: Area Hospitals Must Collaborate on Cancer Care

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial argues that the Sacramento-area medical community "should capitalize on the status of the newly renamed UC-Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, now in the top tier of cancer centers nationwide -- as the Boston area did in the late 1990s." It concludes, "Now is the time for the region to come together to use the university's 'comprehensive cancer center' designation effectively to make a dent in the fight against cancer." Sacramento Bee.

UC Researchers Find Text Messages Benefit Patients

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers from UC-Berkeley and UC-San Francisco have found that automated text messages that include medication reminders or questions about patients' moods are beneficial to patients with depression and other mental health problems. San Francisco Business Times.

UC-Davis Study Links Obesity During Pregnancy to Autism

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new UC-Davis study published in the journal Pediatrics finds that women who are obese are 70% more likely to have a child with autism and twice as likely to have a child with other types of developmental delays as normal-weight women with normal blood pressure and no diabetes. Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times.

UC-Berkeley Nabs $4M Grant To Teach Health Researchers

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

UC-Berkeley has received a five-year, $4 million NIH grant to train and teach global health researchers to study how diseases affect people living in slums. UC-Berkeley will partner with Florida International University, Stanford University and Yale University on the training initiative. NIH also is providing funding for a separate academic consortium that includes UC-Davis and UC-San Francisco, which will launch a similar training program. San Francisco Business Times.

Study Links Robotic-Assisted Surgeries to Better Outcomes

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study by the UCLA School of Medicine finds that patients who underwent robotic-assisted surgeries to remove cancerous bladders had lower mortality and complication rates than those who underwent traditional surgeries. However, the study -- which was partly funded by the Department of Defense -- notes that the robotic procedures cost an average of $3,000 more than traditional surgeries. Payers & Providers.

Merck Pledges $90M for San Diego Drug Research Center

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, New Jersey-based drugmaker Merck announced that it will invest up to $90 million over seven years to establish The California Institute for Biomedical Research in La Jolla. The not-for-profit center, which will focus on research into new drugs and treatments, is expected to hire as many as 150 scientists and staff members. Merck would have priority to license any research results. AP/San Francisco Chronicle.

Sacramento County To Be Part of CDC Health Study

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CDC has selected Sacramento to be one of 15 counties to participate in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The survey -- which will begin Thursday and continue through April 1 -- aims to identify health issues and guide the federal government in developing initiatives and policies to address those issues. Sacramento Bee.

FDA OKs Genentech Drug To Treat Advanced Skin Cancer

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, FDA approved the first drug to treat an advanced form of basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer. The drug -- known generically as vismodegib -- will be marketed as Erivedge by California-based Genentech. The company estimates that a 10-month treatment course would cost about $75,000. New York Times' "Prescriptions," Wall Street Journal.

PCORI Seeks Input on Draft Agenda for Health Research

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, a group of experts who make up the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, which was created by the federal health reform law to assess the effectiveness of medical procedures, released its draft research agenda for public comment. The 22-page agenda highlights five priority areas for comparative effectiveness study, such as improving health care systems, communicating research and assessing prevention, diagnosis and treatment options. The Hill's "Healthwatch," Modern Healthcare.

UCSF Chancellor Aims To Loosen Ties With UC System

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, UCSF Chancellor Susan Desmond-Hellmann told the UC Board of Regents that she would prefer to loosen ties between UCSF's clinics, hospital, medical school and research facilities and the main UC system. According to Desmond-Hellmann, UCSF could become a leading health innovator worldwide if it took on a more autonomous role. The regents said they would task a committee to study the proposal and report back in July with recommendations. San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco Business Times' "Bay Area Biz Talk."

Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy Helps Treat Eye Disease

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a study published in the journal Lancet on Monday, a team of researchers from California and Massachusetts found that an experimental treatment derived from human embryonic stem cells helped to significantly improve the vision of two southern California patients. The patients -- who suffered from progressing forms of blindness -- were treated at UCLA last summer. Advanced Cell Technology -- which developed the therapy and funded the study -- now is expanding the trial. New York Times et al.

California Stem Cell Agency, Scotland Sign Agreement

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine signed a memorandum of understanding with Scotland to facilitate collaboration between researchers. Danny Cusick -- Scottish Development International's president of the Americas -- said the partnership will help create opportunities for Scottish companies to work with California businesses and researchers. San Francisco Business Times' "Biotech SF."

UCSF, Drug Company Sanofi Launch Diabetes Drug Project

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, French pharmaceutical company Sanofi and UC-San Francisco announced details of a $3.1 million pilot project designed to identify drug targets that might lead to new treatments for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The initiative is part of a broader partnership between UCSF and the drugmaker that was launched in January 2011. Under the latest project, laboratories led by three UCSF scientists will study insulin-producing cells, known as beta cells, which are destroyed in Type 1 diabetes and often fail to produce enough insulin in Type 2 diabetes. San Francisco Business Times' "Biotech SF," Fierce Biotech.

First Lady's Initiative Aims To Boost Research on PTSD, TBI

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, first lady Michelle Obama announced a new initiative, as part of her "Joining Forces" campaign, in which more than 100 medical schools will commit to increasing research and training on treating veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. The initiative is intended to provide military-focused training to physicians beyond those who work at military medical centers or military bases. The initiative will not provide funding to the participating schools, but schools will be able to make individual decisions on how to integrate the additional training and research into their curriculum. AP/Washington Post, MedPage Today.

Survey Finds Biomedical Firms Delaying Research, Seeking Funding Options

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new survey finds that many California biomedical firms are delaying projects as they encounter difficulty in obtaining funding. Some firms say they might consider corporate partnerships. San Jose Mercury News, Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal.

Bayer Eyes S.F. Lab Space for Startup Life Science Firms

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, Bayer HealthCare announced plans to create a 6,000 square-foot shared lab, called CoLaborator, to house startup life science companies that have technology platforms, drug targets or drug candidates that align with Bayer's portfolio. The move comes one year after the drug developer launched its Innovation Center in San Francisco's Mission Bay area. The new CoLaborator will launch in the summer in Mission Bay and is expected to house three to four small companies. San Francisco Business Times, Healthcare IT News.

Government Panel Asks Journals To Omit Details of Avian Flu Research

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A government advisory panel has asked two scientific journals to withhold details of two avian flu studies because of concerns that the data could be used for bioterrorism. The move marks the first time an advisory panel has issued such a recommendation. New York Times et al.

Editorial: Stem Cell Research Must Continue Beyond CIRM

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

California voters approved a 2004 ballot proposition to fund the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine for 10 years because they "wanted to stop the tragedy of spinal cord injuries and end the ravages of Alzheimer's disease" through stem cell therapies, a San Jose Mercury News editorial states. It continues, "Now that the end of [CIRM]'s 10-year life span is in sight, it's time for the founders to step back and encourage universities and industry to take over the pursuit of therapies using these potent cells." The editorial concludes, "The promise of stem cell treatments now must be kept alive with funding from industry, academic institutions and private foundations and philanthropists." San Jose Mercury News.

Supporters of State Stem Cell Agency Might Seek Ballot Measure in 2014

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Advocates for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine might seek a ballot initiative in 2014 to raise more funds for the agency. Meanwhile, CIRM has approved $27 million in funds for new projects. Contra Costa Times, San Francisco Business Times' "Biotech SF."

Supreme Court Hears Arguments in Case on Medical Test Patents

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a lawsuit that could determine the legality of patents for certain medical screening tests. The justices appeared to be split over whether companies should be allowed to patent such diagnostic tests. AP/Washington Post et al.

Columnist Raises Questions About State Stem Cell Agency

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Geron's announcement last month that it was stopping "the first human trial of stem cell-based spinal cord therapy ... underscores the old questions, and raises new ones, about what [the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine] is supposed to accomplish," Los Angeles Times columnist Michael Hiltzik writes. Geron refunded a loan from CIRM to fund the trial, but "CIRM needs to take a good look at whether it pushed too hard for the Geron loan and overplayed the significance of the trial," according to Hiltzik, who adds, "These questions are only going to become more important in the future, as CIRM prepares to ask California voters for new billions to supplement its original $3 billion bond issue authorized by voters through 2004's Proposition 71." Los Angeles Times.

Dueling Polls Offer Alternative Reform Opinions

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Two polls released last week offered conflicting views of public opinion on health care reform. Coming in the same week the Supreme Court announced it would hear reform arguments, the polls also raise a couple of questions: How much influence does public opinion have on the Supreme Court? And vice versa?

Geron Halts First Human Embryonic Stem Cell Trial

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, officials at Menlo Park-based biotechnology firm Geron announced the company is halting the first government-approved clinical trial of a human embryonic stem cell therapy. Geron will continue to follow the four patients it has been treating, but it will stop accepting new patients. Citing economic challenges, the company said it does not intend to pursue further research in the stem cell field. Officials said Geron will focus solely on developing its oncology therapies. Company officials noted that the decision is not a reflection of the promise of human embryonic stem cell therapy. The announcement is expected to have significant implications on the biotechnology research field, observers say. Washington Post, New York Times.

S.F. County Takes Part in Federal Health Care Study

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Federal researchers have begun evaluating, measuring and interviewing San Francisco County residents about their health care and dietary habits as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. San Francisco County was selected as one of 15 counties this year for the 52nd annual survey, which provides federal agencies with health care data for a range of initiatives and policies. Researchers hope to interview at least 500 randomly selected San Francisco County residents, and program officials expect that at least 70% of residents will be Asian. San Francisco Chronicle.

Language, Culture Barriers Persist for Hmong Patients

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In a study released last week, the Hmong Health Collaborative in California found that language and cultural differences are key barriers to health care for young adult Hmong residents in the state. The survey of Hmong women and men ages 18 to 46 -- released by the Central Valley Health Policy Institute at California State University-Fresno -- found that poor communication and a lack of culturally competent care were the primary reasons for Hmong adults' hesitancy to seek health care. Other barriers include a disconnect between Western and Hmong medicine and a lack of insurance. Fresno Bee's "News Blog."

UCSC Researchers Nab $10K Health Care Innovation Prize

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last month, a three-member team from UC-Santa Cruz clinched a $10,000 prize from Deloitte and the California Institute for Quantitative Sciences for its research into possible treatments for cholera and other forms of bacteria. In a paper published in January in the journal Molecular BioSystems, the team explained how some bacteria have the ability to form biofilm, a protective layer that shields it from immune system responses or antibiotics. The team plans to continue its research for the development of drugs that would inhibit the development of biofilm. Santa Cruz Sentinel.

UCSF Clinches $6M Award for HIV/AIDS Prevention Effort

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, UC-San Francisco announced that the UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies will receive $6 million over four years to lead an HIV/AIDS prevention initiative in seven states. The grants -- from the Health Resources and Services Administration's Special Projects of National Significance Program -- will help the UCSF center collaborate with HIV/AIDS prevention efforts in Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin. The project aims to boost access to care, improve health outcomes and reduce HIV-related health disparities. San Francisco Business Times.

UC-Davis, Chinese Firm Team Up on Genetics Research Effort

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, UC-Davis launched a partnership with BGI, a China-based DNA research institute, to build a new laboratory at UC-Davis' School of Medicine in Sacramento. The new 10,000 square-foot facility will include advanced DNA sequencing technology and equipment for research in medicine, pharmaceuticals and food science. UC-Davis officials heralded the partnership as an opportunity to establish the Sacramento area as a hub for pharmaceutical and agricultural biotechnology firms. Sacramento Bee.

Researchers Announce Stem Cell Cloning Breakthrough

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

For the first time, a team of researchers used cloning techniques to create embryonic stem cells, according to a report published Wednesday in the journal Nature. The team includes scientists from UC-San Diego, Columbia University and the New York Stem Cell Foundation Laboratory in New York City. The researchers say their latest achievement will help advance efforts to develop therapies to treat illnesses such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Los Angeles Times.

S.D. Researchers To Assist in CDC Childhood Obesity Study

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, CDC announced a four-year, $25 million research project that aims to identify strategies for preventing childhood obesity in children between ages two and 12 who are enrolled in the Children's Health Insurance Program. The project will award individual grants of $6.2 million to researchers at San Diego State University, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the University of Texas Health Science Center. CDC also will provide a $4.2 million grant to the University of Houston to determine which of the three institutions' strategies work best and share their findings. MedPage Today.

Our Sidneys: The Six Key Studies That Shook Up the Summer

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

With a nod to David Brooks' annual awards in the New York Times, "Road to Reform" highlights our own Sidney Awards, named for Kaiser Permanente's co-founder. Here are six major health policy studies that changed the course of conversation this summer.

Three UC-Davis Researchers Nab $8.9M in NIH Grants

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, NIH announced that it is awarding three grants totaling $8.9 million over five years to three UC-Davis researchers. The researchers will use the funding to study the health benefits of stem cell ribonucleic acid, the role other viruses play in the spread of HIV and the autoimmune response in patients with scleroderma, an often fatal disease. Sacramento Business Journal.

UC Regents Support Ballot Measure on Tobacco Tax

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, University of California regents endorsed a ballot measure that would raise by $1 the tax on tobacco sales to fund medical research and smoking cessation programs. The California Cancer Research Act -- which will appear on the June 5, 2012, presidential primary ballot -- has been projected to raise more than $855 million annually for the research and education programs. Oakland Tribune.

UC-San Diego Opens New Medical Training Center

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

UC-San Diego School of Medicine has opened a $70 million, 100,000 square-foot Medical Education and Telemedicine Center. The three-story facility features authentic replicas of hospital emergency departments, intensive care units, and surgery and treatment rooms, as well as $30 million worth of advanced medical equipment for students, medical faculty and visiting physicians to use. San Diego Union-Tribune, La Jolla Light.

$5M UC-Riverside Med School Grant Closer to Final Approval

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, a Desert Healthcare District committee voted unanimously to recommend a $5 million grant to UC-Riverside's proposed medical school. The grant would be distributed as five $1 million grants over five years for four key initiatives to improve health care in the Coachella Valley. The funding would be used to hire primary care doctors; develop residency and clinical training programs; build a school-wide telemedicine system; and reinforce local health education programs. The full board is scheduled to vote Sept. 27 on final approval of the grant. Palm Springs Desert Sun.

Calif. Groups Secure Grants for Public Health, Research

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, HHS awarded $40 million in grants to public health departments around the U.S. to bolster their infrastructure and create jobs. The California Department of Public Health, the Los Angeles County Public Health Department and the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency received funding through these grants. Meanwhile, Blue Shield of California Foundation awarded $20,000 to CHICO Women's Health Specialists as part of efforts to strengthen the statewide network of community clinics and health centers and extend health care services to uninsured residents. In addition, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has awarded research planning grants to five teams at UC-Davis Health System. Healthcare Finance News et al.

Institute of Medicine Finds No Link Between Immunizations, Autism

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

For a new Institute of Medicine report, researchers reviewed more than 1,000 studies and found no evidence suggesting a link between vaccines and autism. The report finds that vaccines are associated with certain adverse effects only in rare cases. New York Times et al.

NIH Releases Updated Conflict-of-Interest Rules for Researchers

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, NIH updated its conflict-of-interest rules for researchers, lowering the amount of money that constitutes a financial conflict. The new rules are designed to prevent scientists from diverting public funding for their personal profit. National Journal et al.

Study Finds Racial Disparity in NIH Grant Review System

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Black researchers are significantly less likely to secure NIH grant funding than white applicants, according to a study published in the journal Science. Study author Donna Ginther of the University of Kansas said the disparity can be explained one of two ways: black applicants do not have the same "cumulative advantages" -- such as education and mentoring privileges -- as whites, or there is bias in NIH's grant review system. NIH Director Francis Collins pledged to take steps to root out any bias issues in the review process. Reuters et al.

UC-Davis Study Evaluates Autism Risk Among Siblings

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The future sibling of a child born with autism has a 19% chance of developing the condition, according to a new study led by Sally Ozonoff, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the UC-Davis MIND Institute. The study found that the risk of developing autism increases to 32% if a child has at least two older siblings with the condition. Previous, smaller studies estimated the autism recurrence risk at between 3% and 10%. AP/San Francisco Chronicle, Los Angeles Times.

Pfizer, UCSD To Collaborate on Drug Development Research

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, UC-San Diego and Pfizer announced the launch of a new pharmaceutical drug research collaboration that could provide up to $50 million to local scientists over the next five years. The research will be conducted at the Center for Therapeutic Innovation, which Pfizer is establishing at its La Jolla campus. For the project, UCSD researchers and Pfizer scientists will work together on drug development targeting cancer, clinical pharmacology, HIV, inflammation, metabolism, neuroscience and pain. San Diego Union-Tribune.

Foundation Doles Out $810K for Health Services, Research

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Seven Los Angeles-area organizations will receive a combined total of $810,000 in grants from the California Community Foundation to improve health care services and promote scientific research. Six of the grants -- ranging from $100,000 to $140,000 -- will go to clinic operators that serve low-income populations. The seventh grant, totaling $205,000, will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Los Angeles for research on blood cancer treatment for children. Payers & Providers.

GAO: Studies on Quality and Cost Often Lack Key Data

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Achieving greater health care value in the U.S. depends on the availability of information on how certain initiatives affect quality of care and costs, according to a Government Accountability Office report. GAO reviewed numerous studies and surveyed their authors about the effects of programs designed to boost quality and reduce costs. The report found that although such initiatives have improved care, only half of respondents said they increased cost savings. The report noted that many studies do not employ rigorous methods to determine the effect of a certain initiative on costs. Fierce Healthcare.

Judge Rejects Lawsuit Against Federal Funding for Stem Cell Research

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, U.S. District Court Judge Royce Lamberth dismissed a lawsuit that claimed federal funding of embryonic stem cell research infringed upon a 1996 federal law. Lamberth said he is bound to a higher court's interpretation of the case. AP/Washington Post et al.

Study: Mail-Order Rx Linked to Better Cholesterol Control

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

People who obtain statin medications through mail-order pharmacies achieve better cholesterol control than patients who obtain statins from walk-in pharmacies, according to a new study by Kaiser Permanente Northern California researchers. The study found that 85% of patients who used mail-order pharmacies met their target cholesterol levels at least three months after starting the statins, compared with 74% of those who used the walk-in pharmacy. Researchers suggested that patients who use mail-order pharmacies might take their medications more regularly. Boston Globe, United Press International.

Calif. Scientists Genotyping DNA for Medical Research

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A collaborative project between Kaiser Permanente, UC-San Francisco and research equipment developer Affymetrix has genotyped the DNA of 100,000 people in 15 months. The $24.8 million study, which is funded by NIH, aims to examine how genetic factors combine with environmental factors to affect an individual's risk of disease and treatment response. About 180,000 Kaiser members have signed up for the project so far, and researchers hope to increase that number to 500,000. San Francisco Business Times' "Biotech SF."

UC-Davis Study: Costs Cut With Patient-Centered Care

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Patient-centered care can help eliminate or reduce unnecessary testing and lower medical costs, according to a UC-Davis Health System study published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine. Researchers tracked for one year more than 500 patients who received care by family physicians and internists and found that personalized discussions and persuading patients to take a more active role in their health led to fewer specialty care visits, hospitalizations and diagnostic services, as well as lower total associated health care charges. Stockton Record, American Medical News.

NIH Awards $112M to UCSF for Translational Research

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, UC-San Francisco announced that its Clinical and Translational Science Institute has received $112 million in renewed funding from NIH for its efforts to link medical research to clinical care improvements. UCSF is one of 10 institutions nationwide to receive the renewed NIH funding, which will be spread out over a five-year time period. San Francisco Business Times.

Editorial: Hefty Salary for CIRM Chief Raises Concerns

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Thomas, the new head of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, "not only makes more money than the governor, he makes twice as much as the chief of the National Institutes of Health," a Los Angeles Times editorial states. It adds that "what especially rankles about Thomas' big paycheck is that his hiring comes at a time when most state agencies are making radical cutbacks and when the institute itself is considering a ballot measure to ask voters for billions in new funding." The editorial concludes that supporters of such a ballot initiative "will have a phenomenally tough sales job on their hands." Los Angeles Times.

UC-Davis Wins NIH Grant for Emergency Medicine Research

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute at NIH has awarded a five-year, $3.3 million grant to UC-Davis for emergency medicine research. Nathan Kuppermann -- professor and chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the UC-Davis School of Medicine, and director of UC-Davis Medical Center's emergency department -- said the funding will be put toward improving care of patients with acute illness or traumatic injuries. Sacramento Business Journal.

Calif. Scientists Conducting Long-Term Study Using DNA

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers at Kaiser Permanente and UC-San Francisco have collected voluntary DNA samples from more than 100,000 Kaiser members as part of a long-term study on various health-related issues. The scientists will use patients' DNA, responses to questionnaires and medical records to track issues such as aging, prescription drug reactions and race-related health disparities. Patients have the option to formally withdraw from the study, which is funded by a nearly $25 million grant from NIH. Sacramento Bee.

New Research Links Autism to Environmental Factors

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Environmental factors during pregnancy might play a slightly larger role than genetics in the development of autism spectrum disorders, according to two studies in the Archives of General Psychiatry. In one study, researchers at Stanford University and UC-San Francisco found that genetics account for about 38% of the risk of autism and that environmental factors account for about 62%. In a second study, researchers from the Kaiser Permanente Northern California system found that children faced a higher risk of autism if their mothers took antidepressants during the year prior to giving birth. San Francisco Chronicle et al.

UC-Davis Nabs $6.9M Grant for Alzheimer's Research

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

NIH has awarded a five-year, $6.9 million grant to the UC-Davis Alzheimer's Disease Center to continue its research efforts on the causes of dementia. The center evaluates more than 200 new patients annually. The grant takes effect on July 1. Sacramento Business Journal.

Editorial Outlines Challenges Stem Cell Agency Head Faces

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A San Diego Union-Tribune editorial states that Jonathan Thomas, the newly elected chair of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, "is clearly qualified" for the position. CIRM "is at its most critical stage since its creation" in 2004, the editorial continues, adding that Thomas' "finance and banking background will be particularly important as CIRM seeks new and stable sources of funding." The Union-Tribune adds that Thomas "must also bring strong and transparent management" to the agency and "navigate the highly political waters of California's competing research centers." San Diego Union-Tribune.

Stem Cell Agency Selects Investment Banker as Chair

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine's governing board has tapped Jonathan Thomas as its next chair. Thomas, who replaces outgoing board Chair Robert Klein, is a former Wall Street investment banker who co-founded Saybrook Capital, an investment and private-equity company that has secured funding for clinical trials involving embryonic stem cells. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Opinion: Listen to Low-Income Residents on Health Reform

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In a Kaiser Health News opinion piece, Peter Long -- president and CEO of the Blue Shield of California Foundation -- and Ian Morrison -- an author and independent health care consultant -- argue that "for health reform to truly take root, we should take our cue from the millions of low-income Californians who have the most at stake -- and let their expectations inform implementation." Long and Morrison write that a new survey conducted for the Blue Shield of California Foundation provides insight into how residents will respond to the health reform law. They conclude, "Far from the Supreme Court or Washington, D.C., how well our state and local health leaders respond to expectations of low-income Californians will ultimately determine the success of national health reform for this population." Kaiser Health News.

USC Medical School Secures $150M Keck Foundation Gift

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, the W.M. Keck Foundation is expected to announce a donation of $150 million to the University of Southern California medical school. The funding will be doled out over 20 years and will go toward boosting medical research at the medical school, USC University Hospital and USC Norris Cancer Center. Los Angeles Times.

Columnist: CIRM Should Mull Effects of its Research Effort

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles Times columnist Michael Hiltzik writes that the search process for a new board chair for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine "has been a missed opportunity" for the board to consider broader issues, such as whether CIRM's existence has diminished state funding for other research efforts. Hiltzik adds, "There's no question that stem cell research is important and potentially groundbreaking. But with every budget year, the folly of generously funding research in one research field while everything else withers away grows more obvious." Los Angeles Times.

Top Court Rules Against Stanford in Patent Battle Over HIV Test Kit

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Supreme Court recently sided with Roche Molecular Systems in a patent dispute over an HIV test. The court ruled that Stanford University did not automatically own the patent, even though it employed the inventor of the test. New York Times et al.

Researchers Develop Model To Improve Rx Compliance

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers from UC-Riverside, Texas State University-San Marcos and La Sierra University have developed a new framework -- called the Information-Motivation-Strategy model -- aimed at improving prescription compliance. The model emphasizes the need for physicians and patients to effectively communicate and plan for successful drug compliance. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Sutter Health Selected for Health Data Sharing Program

Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Sutter Health and nine other health systems have been invited to join a nationwide collaborative that aims to share medical data in an effort to improve outcomes and cut costs. The High Value Healthcare Collaborative was launched in December 2010 and includes institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, Intermountain Healthcare and the Mayo Clinic. Criteria for selection include strong information technology systems, and robust research and quality improvement programs. Sacramento Business Journal.

UCLA Unveils Global Bio Lab To Study Infectious Disease

Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, UCLA opened a $32 million, 6,000 square-foot Global Bio Lab to analyze infectious diseases and prepare for pandemics. According to Linda Rosenstock -- dean of the UCLA School of Public Health -- the lab initially will be used as an academic research facility to study influenza. Rosenstock added that the lab ultimately will be used by federal, state and local officials during disease "surge modes" to try to curb the spread of illnesses. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Stanford, Foundation Set Up Medical Research Fund

Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Stanford University will match a $10 million donation from the Wallace H. Coulter Foundation to establish a medical research endowment at the school. According to the university, the endowment will enable the Wallace H. Coulter Translational Research Grant Program to continue in perpetuity. San Francisco Business Times.

Study: Early HIV Treatment Reduces Transmission Risks

Mon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

HIV-positive people are significantly less likely to transmit HIV if they begin antiretroviral treatment immediately instead of waiting for their immune systems to start deteriorating, according to a new study funded by NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The study supports a recommendation made last year by San Francisco public health officials, who called for all people diagnosed with HIV to begin treatment right away. San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Medical Technology Industry Growing in Sacramento Area

Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The number of bioscience companies, medical device makers and pharmaceutical firms in the Sacramento region has increased by 20% since 2008, according to a new report by the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance. The report -- which was presented last week at the Med Tech Showcase at California State University-Sacramento -- found that the medical technology industry currently employs about 4,400 workers in the Sacramento area. Sacramento Bee.

State Stem Cell Agency Funds Human Clinical Trial for the First Time

Thu, 05 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has awarded $25 million to support Geron's trial of a stem cell treatment. The award marks the first time that CIRM has provided funding for a human clinical trial. San Diego Union-Tribune, Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots."

Court Lifts Ban on Federal Embryonic Stem Cell Research Funding

Mon, 02 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, a federal appeals court, in a 2-1 decision, sided with the Obama administration and lifted an injunction that prohibited the use of federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. The ruling sends the case back to Federal District Court in Washington, D.C. New York Times et al.

UC-Davis Professor Receives Grant for Obesity Research

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Adela de la Torre -- director of the UC-Davis Center for Transnational Health -- has won a five-year, $4.8 million grant to study ways to combat obesity in children of Mexican heritage. The study will focus on about 800 children and their families in the Fresno County towns of Firebaugh and San Joaquin. UC-Davis was one of 24 institutions to receive grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to study obesity. Sacramento Bee et al.

Panel OKs Fee To Raise Funds for Spinal Cord Injury Studies

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Assembly Committee on Public Safety voted 4-3 to approve a bill that would direct revenue from traffic violations to a spinal cord injury research fund. The $3 surcharge on moving-traffic violations could raise $11 million annually for the research fund. The bill now moves to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations next month and could be approved by the Legislature by the end of summer. San Francisco Business Times.

Stanford, March of Dimes To Study Premature Birth

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The March of Dimes will provide up to $20 million across a decade to Stanford University to study the causes of premature birth, which contributes to an estimated $26 billion annually in health care costs and is the top cause of death among newborns in the U.S. Stanford will house the March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center, which will recruit experts from various disciplines to conduct research. San Francisco Business Times, Contra Costa Times.

IOM Guidelines Focus on Clinical Practice, Review of Effective Health Care

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Institute of Medicine has issued two reports that contain standards for consistent clinical practice guidelines and systematic reviews of comparative effectiveness research. The reports were developed at the request of Congress. CQ HealthBeat et al.

Blue Shield Foundation Will Provide $9 Million in Grants

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Blue Shield of California Foundation has announced that it will provide more than $9 million in grants during the first quarter to support safety-net services, improve health care access and combat domestic violence. Portions of the funding also will go toward research on the federal health reform law and efforts to help counties update their enrollment systems for programs such as Medi-Cal. San Francisco Business Times.

USC Researchers Unveil New Index for Measuring Obesity

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of Southern California recently developed the body adiposity index, which relies on height and hip measurements to determine whether individuals are obese, according to a study published in the journal Obesity. The study states that the body mass index method is not flexible enough to be used for both men and women, across ethnic groups or by athletes. Reuters.

UCSF Nabs $48M for Lung Cancer Studies, Treatment

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

UC-San Francisco has received a $48 million gift to study and treat interstitial lung disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other lung conditions. The gift comes from the estate of philanthropist Nina Ireland, whose previous gifts to UCSF established a laboratory of developmental biology, a professorship in child psychiatry and a professorship in pulmonary medicine. San Francisco Business Times.

Supreme Court To Hear Case on Medical Research Patents

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear opening oral arguments in a case involving Stanford University and pharmaceutical firm Roche over patent rights on inventions that arise from federally funded research. A decision in the case is expected in June. San Jose Mercury News.

Lance Armstrong Stumps for Calif. Tobacco Tax Increase

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Lance Armstrong is campaigning for a ballot measure that would raise the cigarette tax by $1 per pack to fund cancer research and prevention efforts. If enough signatures are collected, the measure -- sponsored by former Senate President pro Tempore Don Perata -- could appear before voters as early as June. Armstrong and other supporters of the ballot measure argue that it would provide much needed funding to research groups such as the National Cancer Institute, while opponents say that a cigarette tax increase would drive residents to cross state lines to make purchases. San Francisco Chronicle, Los Angeles Times.

Stanford Nabs $5M Grant for Center on Aging, Stem Cells

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Glenn Foundation for Medical Research has provided a $5 million grant to help Stanford University launch a new center on stem cells and the aging process. The center -- which will be called the Paul F. Glenn Laboratories for the Biology of Aging at Stanford -- will study how stem cells change as an individual ages. San Francisco Business Times.

Enrollment for Kids' Health Study Starts in L.A. County

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, researchers started enrolling 4,000 participants from 14 randomly selected Los Angeles County neighborhoods in the National Children's Study. The study will follow 100,000 U.S. children from gestation through their 21st birthday to examine factors that could contribute to conditions such as autism, diabetes and obesity. Ventura County Star.

House Expected To Vote on Measures To Remove Reform Law Funding

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, the House is expected to vote on amendments to a government spending bill that would take away funds for the health reform law. Meanwhile, California lawmakers say the spending bill has negative consequences for health-related programs in the state. Washington Post's "44" et al.

Biomedical Jobs No. 1 in San Diego Health Care Work Force

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The recession has brought mixed results for the various sectors of San Diego's health care labor market. The biomedical industry saw job gains in 2009, while hospitals consolidated or froze jobs. Although nursing graduates are struggling to find work in the region now, hospital officials predict future shortages of nurses and allied health professionals.

Latest CHIS Data Go Public

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Every two years, the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research conducts an extensive survey -- with a county-by-county breakdown of income, ethnicity and health indicators of Californians.

The California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) is the nation's largest state survey. Yesterday, the center released its 2009 data, one day after issuing its first policy brief on the data, which looked at the recent rise in how many people will be eligible for Medi-Cal and under national health care reform.

That kind of information is vital in crafting the state's health policies, according to E. Richard Brown, director of UCLA's CHPR.

Calif. Medical Schools Among Top Recipients of NIH Funds

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

UC-San Francisco and UC-Davis School of Medicine ranked third and 37th, respectively, in an annual ranking of U.S. recipients of NIH medical research funding. UCSF received $475.4 million from NIH in 2010, while UC-Davis received nearly $119 million. Sacramento Business Journal, San Francisco Business Times.

More Health Care Details Released From Obama's 2012 Budget Proposal

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

More details have emerged from President Obama's proposed fiscal year 2012 budget for the federal government. The proposal includes budget increases for CDC, FDA and NIH, but a $1.3 billion reduction in funds for HHS to implement the health reform law. New York Times et al.

UC-Davis Researchers Nab $3M Autism Treatment Grant

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Three researchers at UC-Davis have secured a $3 million grant through the Department of Defense to study new a treatment for children with Fragile X Syndrome, which is linked to autism. About 33% of children with Fragile X develop autism. Sacramento Business Journal.

UC-San Francisco Unveils Stem Cell Research Center

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, UC-San Francisco opened its $123 million, 80,000 square-foot Ray and Dagmar Dolby Regeneration Medicine Building, which houses 25 stem cell research laboratories. University officials said the facility was funded entirely by state and private money, which means it can operate independently of federal restrictions on stem cell research. San Francisco Business Times et al.

Survey: Funding Uncertainty Impeding Stem Cell Research

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A temporary ban on federal funding for research involving human embryonic stem cells has disrupted some scientists' work, according to a survey published in the journal Cell Stem Cell. Of the 370 researchers surveyed, 50 said they were delaying their plans for embryonic stem cell research, 34 said they were shifting away from pursuing such research in the future and 44 said policy uncertainty was impeding further research. Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots."

Report: State's Biomedical Industry Lost Jobs in 2009

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

California's biomedical industry lost 6,000 jobs in 2009, according to a new report by the California Healthcare Institute and PricewaterhouseCoopers. However, 68% of the 200 biomedical CEOs surveyed for the report said they plan to expand their work force in California over the next two years. San Diego Union-Tribune, KPBS' "KPBS News."

Public-Private Partnerships Help Train Health Care Work Force

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Partnerships between schools and health care providers in California are helping to train the next generation of health care workers in tight economic times.