ALEXANDRA J. STRONG, M.D.

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This study examined how to better understand fear of re-injury in athletes who have had surgery for a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Researchers used advanced computer techniques to analyze movement patterns from 60 patients who had ACL reconstruction and 47 healthy individuals. They found that certain movements, like trunk tilt and hip angles, helped distinguish between patients with high and low fear of re-injury, achieving a classification accuracy of about 75.6%. This is important because it can lead to more tailored rehabilitation programs that help athletes feel more confident and recover fully. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from ACL injuries and their rehabilitation teams.

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This study looked at the long-term safety and effects of weight-loss surgery on patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The researchers found that while surgery led to better management of RA symptoms and a lower risk of death (1.8% compared to 3.8% after five years), patients with RA also faced increased nutritional challenges, such as higher rates of vitamin deficiencies. This matters because it shows that while weight-loss surgery can benefit RA patients, careful follow-up and support are crucial to address potential nutritional issues. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis considering weight-loss surgery.

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This study looked at how patient-reported outcomes (like how patients feel about their knee recovery) relate to the ability to perform physical tasks involving jumping while also doing a mental challenge, after surgery to fix a torn ACL. Researchers found that overall, there wasn't a strong connection between how people felt about their recovery and their performance in these tests, with women showing some positive trends and men showing negative trends, but none were significant. This matters because it reveals that men and women might respond differently to recovery assessments, highlighting the need to tailor rehabilitation approaches based on sex. Who this helps: This helps patients and therapists by emphasizing the importance of individualized recovery plans after ACL surgery.

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This study looked at the safety of two types of weight-loss surgeries—sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass—in patients who had previously undergone a procedure for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Among 499 patients, those who had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass experienced more complications (about 9.6% had serious issues) compared to sleeve gastrectomy (4%), but overall, both surgeries were found to be safe and effective options. This matters because it shows that having had surgery for GERD should not stop patients from getting the help they need for obesity. Who this helps: Patients struggling with obesity after GERD surgery.

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This study looked at the safety of resleeve gastrectomy (ReSG) for patients who didn’t lose enough weight or gained weight back after their first sleeve gastrectomy (P-SG). The researchers found that 5.13% of ReSG patients experienced serious complications, compared to only 2.03% of P-SG patients. This is important because it shows that ReSG carries a higher risk of serious issues, which might lead doctors to consider other options for patients needing a second surgical procedure after sleeve gastrectomy. Who this helps: Patients considering a second weight loss surgery.

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This study looked at how surgery for small bowel blockages, mostly caused by adhesions, has changed over the past ten years in the U.S. It found that the use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) rose from 27% to 45% of cases between 2011 and 2021. MIS patients experienced fewer complications (15.2% compared to 27.7%), lower mortality rates (1.3% vs. 3.9%), and shorter hospital stays (4 days vs. 8 days), suggesting that this method is safer and more effective than traditional surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing surgery for bowel obstructions.

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The study looked at 180,544 patients who had bariatric surgery to understand how common liver disease is among them and how it affects their recovery. Out of these patients, 20,678 (11.5%) had liver disease, which was linked to higher rates of complications like bleeding and the need for reoperations, though it did not affect mortality rates. This matters because it shows that while liver disease raises the chance of complications during surgery, bariatric surgery can still be beneficial for these patients in the long run, especially if they receive proper management. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease considering bariatric surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well people recover from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries when faced with tasks that require both thinking and physical movement. Researchers tested 20 active individuals, including 10 who had ACL surgery, to see how they performed in a series of cognitive and physical tasks. They found that those who had ACL surgery were 3.8% to 14.1% worse at these tasks compared to people without injuries, especially on retests where ACL patients showed significantly poorer outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from ACL injuries and the doctors who assist with their rehabilitation.

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This study looked at liver problems in patients with RASopathies, a group of genetic conditions that affect how cells communicate and grow. Out of 192 individuals studied, 36.5% had liver issues, with one-third experiencing jaundice shortly after birth and 24% needing treatment to reduce bilirubin levels. It's important for doctors to be aware of these liver-related risks in infants with RASopathies, particularly those with specific genetic mutations. Who this helps: This information helps patients with RASopathies and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied the outcomes of lung transplantation for patients with severe pulmonary sarcoidosis over a 30-year period. Out of 1,789 lung transplants, 40 were for sarcoidosis, and about 35% of these patients experienced a recurrence of the disease after an average of 15 months. Notably, these patients were younger at the time of transplantation compared to those without recurrence, and the recurrence generally did not significantly affect their overall survival rates. Who this helps: This information is particularly valuable for patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis and their doctors, as it helps them understand the risks of recurrence after a lung transplant and aids in monitoring post-surgery.

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This study looked at Beare-Stevenson cutis gyrata syndrome (BSS), a rare genetic disorder that can cause unusual skull and skin features. Researchers found a new genetic variant (p.Phe276Cys) linked to BSS in a baby diagnosed before birth, which adds to our understanding of how this condition can appear. Knowing more about the genetics of BSS helps doctors better identify and understand the condition in future cases. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families facing the challenges of BSS.

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This study looked at over 32,000 patients with very high body weight (BMI of 60 or more) who had either robotic or laparoscopic weight-loss surgery between 2020 and 2023. It found that while more patients are choosing robotic surgery (increasing from 20.4% to 41.3%), both surgical methods had similar short-term outcomes after 30 days, such as complications like leaks or bleeding, with no significant differences. However, robotic surgery took about 27% longer than laparoscopic surgery, but the type of surgery didn't impact the safety of the procedures; instead, patient health conditions were the main factors affecting outcomes. Who this helps: This research is beneficial for patients considering bariatric surgery, as it highlights that both robotic and laparoscopic options are safe regardless of their choice.

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This study looked at how vitamin D deficiency affects bone health after two types of weight loss surgeries: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Researchers found that patients with vitamin D deficiency were twice as likely to develop osteopenia (1.9% vs 1.0%) and more than twice as likely to develop osteoporosis (0.7% vs 0.3%) compared to those without deficiency. Understanding this connection is important because it highlights the need for regular vitamin D screening and proper supplementation for patients undergoing these surgeries to protect their bone health. Who this helps: This helps patients who are undergoing weight loss surgery, especially those with vitamin D deficiency.

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This study focused on creating a common understanding among experts about how to define and manage issues like weight gain or inadequate weight loss after metabolic and bariatric surgery. The experts agreed on key points, such as that individual care is crucial (100% agreement) and that "suboptimal" should be the term used to describe these situations (89.5% agreement). They also defined that a weight loss of less than 10% after 12 months indicates a poor response to surgery, and regaining more than 25% of lost weight is considered a sign of recurrent weight gain. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery by improving their post-surgery care and management strategies.

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This research studied people with specific genetic changes in the RERE gene, focusing on how these changes affect their health. They looked at 54 individuals and found that most experienced developmental delays and issues like intellectual disability or autism. Different types of genetic changes had different impacts: one type was linked to fewer health problems and often passed down from parents, while others led to more complex health issues and generally appeared in a person without previous family history. This is important because it helps doctors make better decisions for treatment and counseling based on the specific genetic changes in patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing better understanding and management options for those with RERE gene changes.

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This study looked at over 50,000 patients who underwent a type of weight loss surgery called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in 2023, comparing those who had the surgery done robotically to those who had it done using traditional methods. The researchers found that patients who had robotic surgery experienced a higher rate of death within 30 days—0.14% for robotic compared to 0.07% for traditional methods, meaning robotic surgery was linked to double the risk of death. This is concerning because even though robotic surgery is becoming more popular, the data suggests it may not be as safe in the short term. Who this helps: This information is important for patients considering surgery and doctors making surgical recommendations.

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Researchers studied how the KRAS gene, which can drive cancer, behaves differently in various tissues such as the pancreas and intestine. They created a comprehensive database including 590 models to understand these differences and found that the amount of mutant KRAS can change how cancer develops in specific tissues. This is significant because it helps explain why certain cancers occur more often in certain areas of the body, improving our understanding of how to approach treatment and prevention.

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Researchers studied a genetic cause of a condition called oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum (OAVS), which involves abnormal development of certain facial and ear structures. They found mutations in the CHAF1A gene in eight patients, including three from the same family, which are linked to symptoms like ear deformities and possible kidney issues. This discovery indicates that CHAF1A plays a significant role in OAVS and could help us understand similar developmental disorders. Who this helps: This helps patients with OAVS and their families.

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This study looked at how well adults with maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) manage everyday tasks and decision-making, which are important for living independently. Researchers found that out of 28 adults with MSUD, many had difficulties with these skills compared to others of similar age, which hurt their chances of finishing school, getting jobs, and managing their healthcare. By identifying these challenges, the study highlights the need for regular assessments and targeted support to help these individuals live independently and improve their long-term outcomes. Who this helps: This helps adults with MSUD and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined 44 children diagnosed with a rare condition called punctal agenesis, which affects tear production. The researchers found that 54.5% of these kids had other eye problems, like issues with vision or eyelids, and 43% had other health problems. Importantly, genetic testing revealed that 39% of the children had a genetic condition linked to punctal agenesis, particularly ectodermal dysplasia, indicating that more eye issues often mean more systemic health concerns. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with punctal agenesis and their doctors, guiding better diagnosis and treatment options.

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This study looked at how combining mental challenges with jump exercises affects the landing technique of athletes who have had their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructed. Researchers found that adding cognitive tasks made landing more upright and stiff, which could increase the risk of ACL injuries, especially if the injured leg was not loaded properly. These findings are important because they highlight how mental and physical challenges during training can help identify athletes who are not fully ready to return to their sport after surgery. Who this helps: This helps athletes recovering from ACL injuries and their coaches.

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This study explored the genetic causes of cystic kidney diseases, which affect over 1 in 1000 people. Researchers analyzed 108 individuals and found that 80% had identifiable genetic causes for their condition, with the most common being a specific type of genetic kidney disease called PKD1-related autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, affecting 30% of the participants. These findings highlight the importance of genetic testing, as it can lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment options for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with cystic kidney diseases and their doctors by providing clearer diagnoses and better management options.

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Researchers studied the long-term effects of a procedure called gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in patients with gastroparesis, a condition that affects the stomach's ability to empty. Out of 30 patients surveyed more than six years after the procedure, 33.3% reported significant improvement in their symptoms, with the average symptom score dropping from 3.7 to 2.8. Most participants, about 76.7%, were satisfied with the outcome of the procedure, indicating it is a safe option that can help those suffering from this difficult condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with gastroparesis looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at a specific genetic change in a gene called adenylyl cyclase 7 (ADCY7), which is linked to a higher risk of ulcerative colitis (UC). Researchers found that this gene variant leads to a 40% drop in a vital signaling molecule called cyclic AMP, which affects how immune cells behave. This change in signaling causes immune cells to produce more of a harmful immune response type and increases their ability to present antigens, potentially worsening UC symptoms. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with ulcerative colitis by identifying potential new treatment strategies.

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This study looked at the safety and outcomes of a procedure called endoscopic gastric pouch plications (EGPP), which is used to help people who have had weight-loss surgery but are gaining weight again or experiencing other complications. The research found that out of 1,474 patients, only 3.3% experienced serious complications within 30 days, and there were no deaths reported. Since EGPP seems to be a safe option for patients struggling with weight regain after bariatric surgery, it offers a new way to manage their health without the need for more invasive surgeries. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and are facing weight regain or related issues.

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This study tested a new tool called the NutriMental screener, which helps mental health clinicians assess nutrition-related risks in their patients in Australia. Out of 256 patients, the average reported nutrition risks were 6.4 out of a possible 9, and the tool received positive feedback from clinicians, scoring an average of 4.3 out of 5 for feasibility. Understanding nutrition risks is important because it can lead to better overall health for individuals with mental health issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with mental health conditions by improving their nutritional support.

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This study looked at how patients who have had surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) perform when doing physical tasks while also thinking or remembering. Researchers found that these patients were 13.3% worse at recalling letters and made 7.5% more mistakes in their movements compared to healthy individuals. This matters because it shows that patients recovering from ACL surgery struggle more with tasks that require both thinking and physical action, which could increase their risk of re-injury. Who this helps: Patients recovering from ACL surgery.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of pharmacists improving the use of overactive bladder (OAB) medications in older adults living in long-term care facilities. The results showed that 57.1% of patients who received pharmacist intervention reported fewer side effects, compared to only 10% of those who did not receive help. This is important because it indicates that proper medication management can reduce side effects without worsening bladder symptoms for older patients. Who this helps: This helps older patients in long-term care, their healthcare providers, and their families.

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This study examines a rare condition called Harlequin syndrome, which causes facial flushing and sweating on one side of the face. The researchers found a case where this syndrome was linked to a large goitre (an enlarged thyroid) that was pressing on the nerves controlling facial sensations. Understanding this connection is important because it helps doctors recognize and differentiate between similar conditions. Who this helps: This helps doctors in diagnosing and treating patients with uncommon neurological disorders.

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This study examined the growing use of genetic testing for unborn babies with ultrasound abnormalities and emphasized the need for a list of genetic conditions that can be treated early on. The researchers proposed a "treatable fetal findings list" that includes disorders identifiable through genetic testing, which could lead to timely interventions and better health outcomes for infants. By detecting these conditions early, there’s potential for improving survival and quality of life, as some treatable conditions can be addressed right after birth. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant individuals and healthcare providers by providing crucial information that can lead to better care for newborns.

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This study looked at low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia) in children and young adults who are receiving a type of kidney treatment called continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The research found that 63.9% of the 805 patients had low platelet levels before starting therapy, and those with a greater than 30% drop in platelets after 24 hours were more likely to be younger and have more severe illness. Monitoring platelet levels is important because low counts may indicate a higher risk of dying in the intensive care unit. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers treating young patients undergoing kidney therapy.

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This study looked at how well children on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) were doing after treatment. Out of 527 children, 39% had worse functional health scores at discharge, and 18% developed new health problems when leaving the hospital. Six months later, 10% of patients had more issues, highlighting that many children still struggle even after treatment, which means ongoing support is crucial for their recovery. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, their families, and healthcare providers involved in their care.

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This study investigated how a specific surgical technique for removing deep-seated brain tumors affects blood flow in the brain's outer layer. Researchers found that after surgery, an increase in blood flow speed and strength was linked to poorer neurological outcomes in patients: specifically, those whose blood flow speed deteriorated showed a decline in health of about 43% on average. These results are important because they highlight that monitoring microvascular changes during surgery could help improve patient recovery. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing brain tumor surgery and their doctors by providing insights for better surgical decision-making.

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Researchers studied a group of six individuals with specific genetic changes in the RREB1 gene to explore their health issues. They found that these individuals experienced a range of problems, including heart defects, kidney and urinary tract malformations, dental abnormalities, and developmental delays, all related to the genetic variant. This is important because it identifies RREB1 as a significant factor in a newly recognized syndrome, which could lead to better diagnosis and treatment for affected individuals. Who this helps: This benefits patients with RREB1-related health issues and their families, as well as doctors seeking to understand these conditions.

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This study examined how adding mental challenges during jump tests affects the performance of athletes who have had surgery on their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) compared to uninjured athletes. Researchers found that athletes with ACL reconstruction had significantly poorer jump mechanics and lower jump heights — for instance, they displayed less power in their hips and knees during jumps when forced to think about a memory task at the same time. This finding is important because it highlights how traditional jump tests may not fully assess an athlete's readiness to return to sports after injury. Who this helps: This research benefits athletes recovering from ACL injuries and the medical professionals involved in their rehabilitation.

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This study focused on craniofrontonasal syndrome (CFNS), a rare genetic condition that affects facial structure and genital development, mostly in females. Researchers discovered a specific genetic change called a 2-Mb inversion near the EFNB1 gene in a family with CFNS, which linked to the condition when traditional tests failed to provide answers. This is significant because it identifies a new type of genetic variant that can help explain the disorder, providing clarity for families after decades of uncertainty and improving options for future pregnancy planning. Who this helps: This benefits patients with CFNS and their families.

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This study looked at a 51-year-old patient with a severe form of autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP) that did not respond to standard treatments. After one year of receiving Daratumumab, a new type of medication, the patient showed significant improvements: they were in remission, with better lung function and lower levels of harmful antibodies. This matters because it offers hope for patients suffering from difficult-to-treat cases of aPAP. Who this helps: This helps patients with refractory aPAP who have not benefited from existing therapies.

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This study looked at the long-term effects of a surgical procedure called laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy (DJ) on patients with superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS). The results showed that over an average of 5.3 years, patients' body mass index (BMI) increased from 19.2 to 21.6, and many experienced relief from symptoms like abdominal pain and nausea. However, 28% of patients with additional gastrointestinal issues faced serious complications, highlighting the need for careful pre-surgery evaluation and ongoing care. Who this helps: This benefits patients with SMAS, especially those needing long-term care and support.

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This study looked at how effective cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is for young adults who are at a high risk of developing bipolar disorder compared to standard treatment alone. Researchers found that adding CBT to regular treatment may improve mood swings and reduce the chances of developing bipolar disorder. Over time, this intervention could lead to better overall functioning and quality of life for these individuals. Who this helps: This benefits young adults at risk of developing bipolar disorder and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the outcomes of metabolic surgery in teenagers with severe obesity, comparing those with a body mass index (BMI) of 50 or higher to those with a lower BMI. Out of over 3,000 adolescents, only 1.3% of those with a BMI of 50 or higher experienced serious complications, similar to the 1.5% in the lower BMI group. The research shows that surgery is safe for these adolescents, even those with the highest levels of obesity, which encourages doctors to consider surgery for this high-risk group. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents struggling with severe obesity and their healthcare providers.

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In this study, researchers examined the safety and practicality of measuring the length of intestines during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in 25 patients with a high body mass index. They found that the average total small bowel length was about 592 cm, and the surgery took about 11.5 minutes longer when this measurement was taken. After one year, patients experienced an average weight loss of 31%, along with a drop in the need for medications for high blood pressure and diabetes, highlighting that personalized adjustments in the surgery could lead to better health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing weight loss surgery.

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This study looked at why some patients who had weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) end up needing outpatient hydration therapy (ORT) to treat dehydration. Out of over 692,000 patients, about 26,200 (3.8%) needed ORT, with younger patients, more women, and those who had certain types of surgery being more likely to require it. Understanding these factors helps healthcare providers improve care and keep costs down by targeting hydration services to patients at higher risk for dehydration after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have had bariatric surgery, particularly those at risk of dehydration.

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This study looked at patients with severe gastroparesis who underwent a second procedure called redo gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (redo G-POEM). Three patients participated, and although the procedures were successfully done without major complications, none experienced lasting improvement in their symptoms; one patient died from complications related to her condition. This is important because it shows that while redo G-POEM can be safely performed, it may not be effective in helping patients feel better long-term, suggesting doctors need to be very selective about which patients they recommend it for. Who this helps: This helps doctors understand the limitations of redo G-POEM for treating gastroparesis.

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Researchers studied the long-term health of individuals with a specific genetic variant linked to Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I), a rare genetic disorder. They analyzed data from over 65,000 people and found that 1,803 individuals with this variant showed no significant health problems compared to a matched group without the variant. This matters because it suggests that these genetic variants may not lead to the disease as previously thought, which can change how newborn screenings for this condition are interpreted. Who this helps: This information benefits healthcare providers and newborn screening programs.

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This study looked at a new syndrome related to a gene called EP300, which is connected to Rubinstein Taybi syndrome (RTS). Researchers found that individuals with certain genetic changes in EP300 experienced issues like global developmental delays, autism, and problems with feeding and communication, but lacked the typical facial features of RTS. This discovery is important because it identifies a new type of neurodevelopmental condition that could help better diagnose and support affected individuals. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing clearer information for diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked into how genomic sequencing of healthy babies and adults changes our understanding of inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs). Researchers found that many genetic variants linked to these disorders are more common and less clear-cut than previously thought. For example, they identified a new group of cases that doctors hadn’t recognized before, highlighting that knowing about these genetic risks doesn't always mean action needs to be taken. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and public health officials as they refine screening processes for newborns.

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This study examined genetic testing results from over 16,700 children to identify hidden genetic issues that might not relate to their main health problems but could still be important for their care. The researchers discovered that 8.76% of these participants had significant secondary genetic findings, including 5.81% from recommended guidelines and 2.95% from other important genes. The results highlight the need for diverse representation in genetic research to ensure that all children can benefit from early identification of potential health risks. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing crucial information about possible health risks.

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This study looked at how well people can sense the position of their knee during recovery from surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Researchers tested 22 people after their surgery at three points during their rehabilitation and compared their results to 22 healthy individuals. They found that the accuracy of knee position sense decreased significantly as patients progressed in their rehabilitation, particularly during weight-bearing tests, with errors going from an average of 101.2% at the start to 139.7% at the end, indicating a worsening in how well the injured knee was perceived compared to the other knee. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from ACL surgery and their doctors by providing insights into the rehabilitation process.