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On Oct. 15, Dr. Lars Wiklund, chief of cardiothoracic surgery at Sahlgrenska University hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, led his surgical team in performing Sweden's first implant of the CardioWestT temporary Total Artificial Heart into a 31-year-old male patient. Dr. Ulf Kjellman, head of the ventricular assist device (VAD) program, performed the implant.

Researchers have new insight into the mechanisms that underlie a pathological increase in the size of the heart. The research, published by Cell Press in the October 24th issue of the journal Molecular Cell, may lead to the development of new strategies for managing this extremely common cardiac ailment that often leads to heart failure.

The Biophysical Society is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2009 Distinguished Service Award and the Emily M. Gray Award, as well as the Society's 2009 Fellows. All of the award winners and Fellows will be recognized at the Awards Ceremony during the Biophysical Society's 53rd Annual Meeting on Monday March 2, 2009 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston, Massachusetts. Jeremy M.