University of Virginia

A University of Michigan-led study found that modafinil and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduce fatigue in MS patients, with no added benefit from combining both treatments. Published in The Lancet Neurology, the research highlights the comparable effectiveness of CBT and modafinil for MS fatigue, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered treatment decisions.

Springbok Analytics, co-founded by UVA professors Silvia Salinas Blemker and Craig Meyer, received FDA 510(k) clearance for its MuscleView™ AI technology. MuscleView analyzes MRI data to produce 3D musculature visualizations and assess muscle health, including volume, asymmetry, bone volume, and intramuscular fat percentage. Developed over 13 years, the technology leverages AI and MRI advancements, trained on diverse MRI scans, automating a previously manual process.

Cancer care innovation raises questions on costs, outcomes, and patient quality-of-life. An event co-chaired by Ryan Haumschild and Jonathan Kaufman featured presentations on health equity in breast cancer, perioperative therapy in NSCLC, evolving lymphoma treatments, and RCC therapy challenges, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary approaches and addressing disparities in cancer care.

Afton Scientific announces $200 million expansion in Albemarle County, creating over 200 jobs, utilizing newer manufacturing technologies to develop more medical therapies. The expansion is supported by Virginia's Development Opportunity Fund and the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, highlighting Virginia's thriving life sciences industry.

Blood cancer patients of all races now have equal survival rates with cord blood transplants, according to a study led by Dr. Karen Ballen of UVA Health. The study, published in the journal Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, found no survival gap among Black, Asian, Hispanic, and white recipients. Improved matching techniques, better care, and increased cord blood cell counts contributed to the results.

A workshop on disability trends among U.S. working-age populations (25-64) will be held Oct 15-16, 2024, focusing on measurement, social/economic factors, and COVID-19 implications. It aims to identify research and data priorities, considering labor force participation and public programs, and will discuss interventions and social safety net policies.

Naveris presents NavDx® test data at 2024 ASTRO, highlighting its role in managing HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancers, with studies showing its effectiveness in predicting treatment outcomes and guiding therapy adjustments.

50 face transplants in 11 countries show 85% 5-year and 74% 10-year survival rates, outperforming other transplants. Led by Dr. Pauliina Homsy, the study highlights successful outcomes and evolving techniques, though cost remains a barrier.

The LaCross AI Institute at UVA aims to coordinate AI research, teaching, and engagement across schools. It builds on Darden School's strengths in business ethics and technological innovation, addressing AI's ethical challenges and business opportunities. The LaCross family's $62 million gift supports this initiative, focusing on ethical AI in business.

Transport-based morphometry (TBM) uses advanced imaging to detect autism-related genetic markers with up to 89-95% accuracy, potentially enabling earlier diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. This shift from behavioral observations to genetics and brain structure could revolutionize autism care, fostering cognitive resilience and breaking stigma through science.