ANDREW M. WONG, MD

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This study looked at using global online learning to teach nursing students how to provide better care for Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities. By using a virtual simulation focused on sexual orientation and gender identity, students from different parts of the world learned from each other and shared feedback to improve their understanding and practices. This approach is important because it helps train nurses to be more supportive and affirming, ultimately leading to better healthcare experiences for diverse communities. Who this helps: This benefits nursing students and the 2S LGBTQIA+ community.

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This study looked at how to improve the treatment of critically ill patients who have too much fluid in their bodies after receiving care. Researchers found that using ultrafiltration (a process to remove extra fluid) has to be done carefully; too little can lead to more problems, while too much can cause serious issues with blood flow. They emphasize the need for personalized treatment approaches that consider various patient factors to enhance safety and effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps critically ill patients by improving their fluid management during treatment.

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In this study, researchers looked at how a combination of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and adenosine injections affect fat metabolism and weight loss in rats that were put on a high-fat diet. They found that rats receiving both HIIT and adenosine lost the most weight and had better fat metabolism markers, with the HIIT plus adenosine group showing a significant increase in fat-burning proteins. This combination appeared to help activate pathways that break down fat while reducing those that promote fat storage. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with obesity by providing insights into effective weight loss strategies.

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This study looked at how experiences of trauma affect symptoms of depression and anxiety in immigrant college students from different generations. It involved 713 students and found that trauma, along with social support, significantly influenced mental health, with first-generation students showing a 26% link between these factors and depression, while second-generation students showed a 25% link. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by different generations of immigrant students to improve mental health support for them. Who this helps: This helps immigrant college students and the professionals supporting their mental health.

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This study examined how aging affects the types and amounts of fatty molecules in cells, particularly in the eye, and how these changes relate to vision loss and diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The researchers found that as cells age, their ability to maintain a healthy structure decreases, but instead of dying, they activate a repair process to protect themselves. They showed that adding a specific fatty molecule can help prevent these age-related issues, which is important for improving eye health as we age. Who this helps: This helps patients with age-related vision problems, particularly those at risk for AMD.

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This study looked at how Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, used to produce important medicines, change their DNA as they adapt to different growth conditions. The researchers compared the DNA methylation patterns of these cells as they were grown in four different media, finding specific changes that affected their growth and productivity, with certain adaptations leading to better performance. For example, the study generated 57 detailed DNA datasets, helping to link these methylation changes to the cells' ability to produce proteins efficiently, which is crucial for drug manufacturing. Who this helps: This benefits scientists and doctors involved in producing biopharmaceuticals, as it provides insights to improve cell growth and productivity in the lab.

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This study looked at DNA changes in identical twins to understand how genes and environments work together to affect biological differences, focusing specifically on DNA methylation in the blood. Researchers found that over a third of the genetic factors related to these changes were consistent across different twin samples, and more than 60% of specific DNA sites, influenced by blood cell types, showed similar results in another group of adults. These findings highlight the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in understanding variations in health and disease susceptibility. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and doctors by providing insights into genetic factors that could influence disease risks and treatment responses.

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This paper reviews advancements made in the use of Yarrowia lipolytica, a yeast that can produce valuable substances from waste materials. Researchers found that various genetic techniques and metabolic strategies have significantly boosted the production levels, with the ability to produce higher quantities of fats and other chemicals efficiently from different sources. Understanding these advancements is important because it can lead to more sustainable and efficient production methods in industries like biofuels and bioplastics. Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers and industries focused on sustainable production methods.

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This study looked at three methods for preventing strokes in patients with a condition called Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) in Australia: two closure devices (Cardioform and Amplatzer) and standard medical treatment. The researchers found that using the Cardioform device not only saved the healthcare system AUD 3.7 million compared to Amplatzer but also resulted in 26.48 more years of quality life and 28 fewer strokes. Compared to medical treatment alone, Cardioform was even more effective and cost-effective, leading to an extra 374.5 quality-adjusted life years and preventing 67 additional strokes. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for PFO-related strokes and the healthcare system as a whole.

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This study looked at how a protein called anthranilate synthase (ASA2) interacts with a plant hormone called abscisic acid (ABA), which is known to help plants close their tiny openings (stomata) to conserve water during stress. Researchers found that plants with a defective ASA2 protein struggled to close their stomata when exposed to ABA, showing they had fewer responses to this hormone. This is important because understanding how ASA2 works could lead to better ways to help crops survive tough environmental conditions. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists looking to make crops more resilient to climate change.

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This study looked at two ways to measure the amount of fat around internal organs (visceral fat) in people with obesity. Researchers found that while both methods—Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)—were correlated, DXA consistently showed higher fat volumes, showing an average difference of about 68 mL compared to MRI. This is important because it means that while DXA can provide a faster and cheaper estimate, it may not give an accurate picture of visceral fat amounts when compared to MRI. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by providing more options for assessing body fat levels in obese individuals.

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This study looked at Maryland's Episode Quality Improvement Program (EQIP), which encourages healthcare providers outside of hospitals to improve the quality of care while lowering costs by paying them based on specific types of medical episodes. In its first year, the program saved a total of $11.8 million across 50 participating entities, with 37,758 clinical episodes reported. Most savings came from orthopedic treatments, which saved 5.9%, while cardiology and gastroenterology showed slight losses. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers can benefit from improved care and reduced costs.

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This study focused on creating a new sensor that can tell the difference between live and dead cells without needing complicated tests. The researchers found that their sensor could accurately classify live and dead human cells with 100% accuracy using basic electrical signals. This is important because it simplifies how researchers can assess cell health in medical studies, making it easier to evaluate treatments and monitor side effects. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working in cell biology and drug development.

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This study examined the effectiveness and safety of a new fixation system called the Avanti Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) for treating broken wrists, specifically distal radius fractures, in a group of 397 patients. The results showed that patients had good recovery, with average movement in their wrists improving over time and low complication rates—only 1.64% developed carpal tunnel syndrome, and there were no infections. This matters because it suggests that the Avanti PEEK system is a reliable and simpler option for doctors to use compared to traditional metal plates, helping patients recover effectively with fewer issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with distal radius fractures and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how gut bacteria process a nutrient called choline, which can lead to unhealthy levels of a substance called TMAO associated with heart disease. Researchers found new types of small molecules that can lower TMAO levels in mice without harming the gut bacteria. This is important because it could lead to new treatments for preventing diseases linked to gut metabolism. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for heart disease and other metabolic disorders.

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This study looked at how the way samples for gonorrhea testing are transported affects the ability to grow the bacteria in a lab. It found that specimens sent within five hours had a full recovery rate of 100%, while those taking longer only had 61.5%. Enhancing the transport system slightly improved results, but the key takeaway is that getting samples to the lab quickly is crucial for accurate testing, especially in urban areas where timely surveillance is vital. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need accurate and timely gonorrhea testing and treatment.

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This study focused on a 77-year-old woman who experienced severe issues with her heart valve 17 years after receiving a replacement valve. Doctors found extensive clotting on the valve but were able to treat it successfully with a blood thinner called warfarin, leading to a significant improvement and avoiding the need for surgery. This is important because it shows that doctors should monitor patients with replacement valves for a long time and that warfarin can effectively treat blood clots even years after surgery. Who this helps: Patients with bioprosthetic heart valves and their doctors.

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This study looked at how certain sea anemones, called Aiptasia, recover their gut bacteria after being treated with antibiotics. It found that anemones with algae (symbiotic Aiptasia) quickly regained their normal bacterial communities, while those without algae (aposymbiotic Aiptasia) struggled to do so, even after a week. Specifically, only the algae-associated bacteria returned to normal levels in the symbiotic anemones, indicating a close relationship between the algae and the bacteria. This research shows the importance of the relationship between the sea anemone, its algae, and the bacteria in maintaining a healthy microbiome. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying marine biology and microbiomes.

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This study looked at a new model for predicting sepsis, a severe infection that can be life-threatening, across four large hospitals in the U.S. It found that the new model, called ESM v2, was better at spotting sepsis early than the previous version (ESM v1) but still faced issues like low accuracy in identifying actual cases. Specifically, 3.3% of the 227,091 patients studied had sepsis, and the model showed variable performance depending on the hospital, with an accuracy ranging from 0.82 to 0.92. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and hospitals by improving their ability to identify sepsis early.

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This study focused on a 56-year-old woman who had mild vision issues in one eye but was ultimately found to have a serious eye condition called retinal vasculitis linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Advanced imaging techniques revealed significant damage in the peripheral parts of her retina, and she was treated with high-dose steroids and other medications to control her symptoms. This research highlights the importance of using advanced imaging to check for eye problems in SLE patients, even if they don't have obvious symptoms, because early detection and treatment can improve outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their doctors by improving early diagnosis and treatment strategies for ocular complications.

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This study focused on how well women with early-stage breast cancer tolerate partial breast radiation (PBI) compared to traditional whole breast radiation. Researchers treated 180 women and found that PBI was well tolerated, with only 4.4% experiencing short-term side effects and just one local cancer recurrence after about 5.5 years. This matters because it shows that PBI can be an effective and safer option for women, making breast cancer treatment less invasive and more manageable. Who this helps: This benefits breast cancer patients seeking less aggressive treatment options.

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This study looked at various models designed to predict serious health issues like heart attacks and worsening respiratory problems in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using data from the community. Out of 71 models reviewed, only five predicted heart-related events, while many focused on worsening COPD or overall death rates. The findings highlight a crucial gap: there are no effective models to help identify which COPD patients are most at risk for these dangerous events, which could lead to better-targeted treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with COPD by aiming to improve their care and outcomes.

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The Asia-Pacific Advanced Prostate Cancer Symposium 2025 gathered 28 experts from 15 countries to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in managing advanced prostate cancer in the region. They focused on five key areas, including high-risk cancer types, treatment options, and access issues, revealing that while most experts have access to certain therapies, access to genetic counseling is still very limited. This matters because understanding these variations can help improve treatment and outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how certain pre-surgery factors, particularly from CT scans, could predict negative outcomes and the chance of staying cancer-free for patients with kidney tumors. Out of 748 patients reviewed, 45% were found to have adverse pathology, which is linked to a lower chance of remaining free of cancer. The study found that factors like tumor size, irregular shape, and the amount of normal kidney tissue replaced by the tumor were important in making these predictions, with the models showing an accuracy between 81% and 86% in predicting outcomes over several years. Who this helps: This helps patients with kidney tumors and their doctors by providing clearer expectations and potentially avoiding unnecessary biopsies.

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This study highlights the increasing rates of syphilis cases in Australia, especially among different risk groups, leading to the country's declaration of a national health incident. It found that while testing struggles due to the varied symptoms of syphilis, new testing methods like advanced molecular tests and timely treatments such as doxycycline are improving detection and prevention. Notably, there are signs that syphilis rates may be decreasing in some areas thanks to a range of public health efforts. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those at higher risk, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the use of two antibiotics, ceftazidime and borrelidin A, affects bacteria like E. coli. Researchers found that when these two antibiotics were used together, the bacteria became less resistant to ceftazidime; specifically, co-dosing with borrelidin A cut down the development of ceftazidime resistance by reducing harmful mutations in the bacteria's genes. This is important because it offers a strategy to prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to antibiotics, which is a major public health threat. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers facing antibiotic-resistant infections.

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This study looked at older adults aged 75 to 77 and the unexpected health issues that were found during heart imaging tests. Out of 484 people who completed the imaging, 432 (or 89%) had at least one incidental finding, with 58 (12%) of those being urgent. This is important because it shows that many older adults have hidden health concerns that need attention, which can help shape how doctors communicate these results and provide follow-up care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and older patients by ensuring better management of unexpected health findings.

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This study looked at how the tiny organisms living on our skin change during healthy times and after injuries. Researchers found that when the skin is hurt, the balance of these microorganisms shifts significantly, affecting healing. For example, these microorganisms help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing, making their role in recovery very important. Understanding these processes could lead to new treatments for wounds that help restore healthy skin more effectively. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with skin injuries and doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at the locations and progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in the brains of over 63,000 individuals, as these are indicators of small vessel disease, which affects blood flow. Researchers identified five distinct patterns of WMH that are linked to risk factors like age, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking; for instance, people with higher WMH burdens tended to be older and have higher blood pressure. Understanding these patterns can help tailor prevention and treatment strategies for individuals at risk of brain-related health issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for cerebral small vessel disease and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at new ways to accurately measure food portion sizes using 3D technology. The study introduced three methods for reconstructing food shapes from flat images and found that these new methods reduced errors in volume estimation by 18-23% compared to the best existing approach. This is important because better portion size estimation can improve dietary assessments, helping people make healthier food choices. Who this helps: This benefits patients and nutritionists by providing more accurate food portion information.

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This study looked at how virtual reality relaxation (VRR) can help reduce anxiety in people getting braces. Researchers included 53 patients and found that those using VRR experienced significantly lower anxiety and stress levels during the procedure, with heart rates and blood pressure dropping more than in those who didn't use VRR. This finding is important because it shows that VRR can be a useful way to help people feel calmer during orthodontic treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing orthodontic procedures, especially those with anxiety about dental work.

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This research reviewed how phenobarbital (PB), a medication often used for seizures and lately for alcohol withdrawal, interacts with other drugs. The study analyzed 50 articles and found that PB can significantly affect the effectiveness of many medications, impacting treatments for problems like blood clots and infections. Specifically, it showed that the effects of PB could start anywhere from 6 hours to 30 days after taking it and can last from 2 weeks to 8 weeks after stopping it. Understanding these interactions is crucial for managing medications safely. Who this helps: This helps doctors and pharmacists who need to ensure safe medication use for their patients.

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This study focused on a new treatment for patients with uveal melanoma that has spread to the liver, using a method that infuses immune cells called tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) directly into the liver. Researchers found that the treatment was safe, as no serious side effects were linked to the infusion procedure, but the results showed only stable disease in all six patients, with a median overall survival of 14 months. This is important because while the method is safe, the treatment did not lead to significant improvements in cancer response, indicating that more research is needed to enhance its effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps patients with uveal melanoma and healthcare providers looking for treatment options.

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In this study, researchers explored how well the CRISPR-Cas9 system recognizes and binds to specific DNA sequences related to sickle cell disease. They found that Cas9 binds much more tightly to the mutated DNA associated with the disease (at a strength of 0.09 nM) compared to the normal DNA sequence (at 0.3 nM). This precision in distinguishing between the two sequences is crucial for effective gene editing, which can lead to potential cures for genetic disorders like sickle cell disease. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with sickle cell disease and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked for specific genes that help viruses enter human cells, focusing on two viruses: Ebola and rabies. Researchers used a new method that increases their ability to find these important genes by performing multiple rounds of testing. They found that their approach significantly improved the detection of genes involved in viral entry, making it easier to study how viruses infect cells. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare professionals working on antiviral treatments.

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This study looked at whether taking a medication called polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 can help prevent constipation after a non-cancerous gynecological surgery. Among the 89 patients analyzed, constipation rates one week after surgery were 51% for those who took PEG compared to 71% for those who took a placebo, showing a 20% reduction in the risk of constipation. Although PEG did not significantly lower overall constipation rates, it did improve specific symptoms like straining and hard stools. Who this helps: This information benefits patients undergoing benign gynecological surgery.

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This study looked at how well doctors can assess fluid overload in critically ill patients using various methods like physical exams, fluid balance calculations, and ultrasound imaging. They found that there was no link between the patient's fluid balance and ultrasound results, as traditional methods showed inconsistent results—of 50 patients observed, 70% had swelling, while only 16% showed problems with heart function and 44% had fluid in the lungs. This is important because it suggests that relying on standard methods alone may not accurately reflect a patient's condition, urging a shift towards using ultrasound for better evaluations. Who this helps: This helps doctors by providing better ways to assess fluid overload in critically ill patients.

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This study looks at virtual clinical trials (VCTs), which use computer simulations instead of real people to test medical treatments. The research highlights how VCTs can save money and time while making medical studies more efficient, but it also raises important questions about the accuracy of results and the ethical implications of using fewer human participants. This matters because improving the way we conduct clinical trials can lead to faster and more precise drug development. Who this helps: This benefits patients and researchers by making clinical trials more effective and accessible.

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This study looked at pisiform fractures, which are rare wrist injuries that often go unnoticed because they are usually accompanied by more obvious injuries. Out of 34 patients reviewed from 2017 to 2025, 21 had other fractures, most commonly in the distal radius, while 32 were treated without surgery. The findings show that people with additional fractures are more likely to experience ongoing pain and limited movement later on, highlighting the importance of properly diagnosing these injuries. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors in trauma centers and patients with wrist injuries.

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This study looked at a situation where a replacement heart valve accidentally moved into the wrong part of the heart during a procedure called transcatheter mitral valve replacement. Researchers were able to safely retrieve this misplaced valve using a special tool called the ŌNŌ retrieval basket through a minimally invasive approach. This method is important because it helps avoid more complicated surgeries for high-risk patients, making it a safer option for those undergoing heart valve replacements. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart valve issues who are at high risk for complications.

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This study looked at MyCheck, an online testing program for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and blood-borne viruses in New South Wales, Australia, and compared it to traditional in-person testing. Researchers found that although MyCheck had higher direct medical costs (A$127 per patient versus A$91), it reduced patient travel costs and missed work, resulting in a lower overall societal cost of A$137 compared to A$146 for in-person screening. This matters because MyCheck saves money overall and makes it easier for people, especially men who have sex with men and gender diverse individuals, to get tested for STIs and HIV. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing a more convenient and cost-effective way to get tested for infections.

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This study looked at blood sugar and ketone levels in children aged 6-12 months who were fasting before elective surgery. Researchers found that 3.8% of the children had low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) at the start, and nearly half (48.7%) had high ketone levels (which can indicate fasting) by the end of the surgery. Understanding these risks is important because it helps doctors manage the health of young children during surgery better. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers caring for young patients undergoing surgery.

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This study focused on creating a national registry in Canada for individuals with limb loss and limb difference (LLD) to improve healthcare services for this group. Researchers gathered insights from 96 experts, with 53 responding to a survey and 64 participating in a virtual workshop, identifying five important areas to consider for the registry, including standardization and research support. Having this registry will help ensure better care and support for patients with limb loss, informing policies and practice based on consistent data. Who this helps: This helps patients with limb loss and limb difference.

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This study looked at three different eating patterns: time-restricted eating (TRE), energy-restricted eating (ER), and unrestricted eating (UE) to see how they affect what people eat. The researchers found that participants practicing TRE ate about 1.1 fewer meals per day and reduced their daily calorie intake by 469 calories compared to the start of the study, while those on ER or UE did not show these changes. This matters because it suggests that TRE could be just as effective for weight loss and improving diet quality as a standard calorie-restricted diet. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity looking for effective diet options for weight management.

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An epigenome-wide study of over 1,300 Singaporeans identified three new DNA methylation sites linked to carotid artery wall thickness, a marker of heart disease risk. One of these sites appears to influence coronary artery disease risk through a gene involved in immune regulation. A combined methylation score from these three sites nearly tripled the odds of having elevated carotid thickness, highlighting new biological targets for cardiovascular disease research in Asian populations.

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This study focused on improving liver cancer awareness and prevention in Hispanic, Asian, and African American communities, which are heavily affected by liver cancer and hepatitis infections. It involved a collaborative approach that included educational initiatives, a bus campaign, and health fairs, leading to increased knowledge about liver cancer and a greater number of people getting tested for hepatitis B and C—important steps for prevention and early treatment. This matters because raising awareness and encouraging preventive actions can significantly reduce liver cancer rates in these high-risk groups. Who this helps: This helps patients in underserved communities who are at risk for liver cancer and hepatitis infections.

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This study looked at how Biocidin, a botanical supplement, affects biofilms, which are clusters of bacteria that can resist treatments and cause infections. The researchers found that a single dose of Biocidin significantly reduced these biofilms by more than 99%, and a continuous dose over 24 hours completely eliminated the biofilms at higher concentrations. This is important because it shows that Biocidin could be a powerful alternative treatment for infections where traditional antibiotics fail. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from infections that are difficult to treat with conventional antibiotics.