Professor Joseph Koopmeiners explains how the typical three-phase clinical trial works and the ways researchers and the FDA are safely speeding up the development of COVID-19 vaccines.
Methods/Tools
Study to evaluate genetic underpinnings of smoking and nicotine dependence in American Indians and Alaska Natives
Assistant Professor Dana Carroll is studying how quickly American Indians and Alaska Natives metabolize nicotine, how it relates to their genetic makeup, and barriers that exist to using that information to improve health.
School of Public Health launches Center for Healthy Aging and Innovation
The center is led by Professor Joseph Gaugler and seeks to foster interdisciplinary, community-engaged approaches to support students, researchers, and the community when addressing critical issues related to aging.
Mapping tick-borne disease risk in Wisconsin
PhD student Austin Rau analyzed the cases of three serious — but lesser-known — tick-borne diseases in Wisconsin and found that they are increasing, moving, and varying over time across the state.
Study shows brain scans and spinal fluid tests can help correctly diagnose dementia types in patients
The study from the school’s Minnesota Evidence-Based Practice Center could help researchers identify the underlying causes of dementia, which could eventually lead to better treatments.
Discovering the genetic source of diabetes
Professors Baolin Wu and Jim Pankow are leading a new study to identify the segments of human genetic code associated with the onset of diabetes.
Surveying social interactions during the pandemic
Professor Shalini Kulasingam is leading a survey of Minnesotans to learn about their daily social contact patterns during the outbreak. The data from the study will be incorporated into one of the models used by the State to plan its response to the pandemic.
Current Alzheimer’s drugs do little to help patients
A Minnesota Evidence-Based Practice Center study analyzed 67 Alzheimer’s treatments and found few are effective and they only alleviate symptoms.
Yoga practice common among young adults who have experienced trauma
Professor and yoga instructor Dianne Neumark-Sztainer found that 40% of young people report experiencing traumatic events, such as abuse or discrimination, and offers guidance for yoga students and teachers.
Simple cognitive tests could help primary care clinics spot Alzheimer’s cases
A team from SPH’s Evidence-Based Practice Center identified tests that providers can use to distinguish between Alzheimer’s dementia and normal cognition in older adults.
Can a common blood pressure medication be used to treat COVID-19 patients?
School of Public Health and Medical School researchers are conducting two new studies to see if losartan can protect the lungs of COVID-19 patients.
18.4 million Americans could face disruptions and potential loss of health insurance due to pandemic
The health insurance levels were calculated using the new University of Minnesota COVID-19 Health Insurance Model developed by Professor Lynn Blewett and Associate Professor Ezra Golberstein.
