BENSON HARVEY JR., M.D.

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The community REACH trial studied how local community programs could encourage pregnant women, especially in disadvantaged areas, to start their antenatal care earlier. They found no significant difference in the number of women initiating care by the end of the 12th week of pregnancy, with an odds ratio of 1.07, indicating that the interventions did not have a strong effect. However, there were some improvements noted during the program, like more women starting care by the 10th week and fewer hospital admissions for antenatal issues, although these benefits didn't last once the program ended. Who this helps: This research helps community organizations and health policymakers looking to improve early antenatal care access for expecting mothers in vulnerable communities.

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This research focused on studying the behavior of wintering Lesser Scaup, a type of duck, by comparing traditional observation methods to a new technology using a device that tracks movement 24 hours a day. The study found that the ducks were observed feeding 42% more during the day and flying 23% more at night using the new tracking method, leading to a much higher estimate of their daily energy needs compared to previous methods. This matters because better understanding these birds’ behaviors and energy requirements can help improve wildlife conservation and management practices. Who this helps: This helps wildlife conservationists and managers who aim to protect and understand the needs of wintering duck populations.

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This study examined the types and rates of injuries in young male soccer players over three seasons. It found that forwards had the highest injury rate at 1.42 injuries per player per year, with ankle sprains being the most common. Goalkeepers faced more severe injuries, with 50% classified as severe and 26 times more likely to suffer a fracture than others. Who this helps: This information benefits coaches and trainers in youth soccer to better protect players from injuries.

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This research studied a genetic epilepsy disorder called STXBP1-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (STXBP1-DEE) that is linked to mutations in the STXBP1 gene. The scientists found that to improve symptoms, at least 44% of certain brain cells needed to express the STXBP1 gene, which indicates a crucial level for effective treatment using gene therapy. Their findings also showed that the effects of this therapy can last for up to a year and introduced a method to detect relevant proteins in patients' spinal fluid, which could help in future treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from STXBP1-DEE and their doctors by providing a clearer target for treatment.

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This study looked at injuries in young male soccer players from a training academy after they had COVID-19. Researchers found that 58.8% of those who had COVID-19 sustained at least one injury, compared to 28.04% of those who did not have the virus. In fact, players who had COVID-19 were about 2.78 times more likely to get injured after their infection than those who remained uninfected. Who this helps: This research benefits coaches and healthcare providers working with young athletes.

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This study looked at how different animals, including humans, have a natural ability to perceive how many objects are present, even without prior visual experience. The researchers found that this ability, called numerosity perception, comes from how the visual system processes images based on their spatial patterns. Understanding this is important because it reveals a fundamental aspect of how we interpret our surroundings from a very early stage. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying vision and cognitive development in both humans and animals.

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This study examined the drug zilucoplan to see if it could help slow down the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a serious neurological condition. Out of 162 participants, those taking zilucoplan did not experience a significant change in disease progression compared to those on a placebo, with a measure indicating no treatment benefit. This is important because it shows that zilucoplan does not effectively improve outcomes for ALS patients, helping to focus research on more promising treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients by guiding future treatment options for ALS.

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This study looked at significant changes in the North Atlantic climate over the last few decades, focusing on the atmosphere and ocean currents. Researchers found that human activities, like greenhouse gas emissions, along with natural factors, greatly influence these shifts. Understanding these influences better is essential for making more accurate predictions about climate and extreme weather in the UK and Western Europe. Who this helps: This helps communities and policymakers planning for climate change impacts.

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This study looked at medical students from Indiana University who applied to more than one specialty during their residency match process from 2021 to 2024. Out of 1,411 students, 225 (or 16%) had a parallel application plan. Of those, 39% matched into their first choice specialty, 56% matched into their second choice, and 5% did not match at all. This information is important because it shows that parallel applying can be a smart strategy for students aiming for competitive specialties, with over half successfully getting into their backup specialty. Who this helps: This helps medical students looking for residency positions in competitive fields.

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This study examined a new type of ventilator that can automatically adjust itself based on patient needs, comparing it to standard ventilator care in pigs with bleeding and lung injuries. The findings showed that the new ventilator kept oxygen levels within the target range more effectively than standard care—68% of the time compared to 49%—which is a significant improvement (p = 0.04). This is important because it means that in emergency situations or places with fewer resources, this adaptable ventilator could improve care for patients with serious lung issues. Who this helps: This helps doctors managing critically ill patients, especially in emergency or resource-limited settings.

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This study focused on how involving families in research can improve early childhood sleep interventions for families from lower-income backgrounds. Over four years, researchers held ten meetings with families, which led to important changes in how the Sleep Well! program was delivered and adapted to better fit their needs. The findings show that making research more inclusive and culturally aware helps ensure that the programs are effective and relevant for the families involved. Who this helps: This benefits children and families, especially those from lower socioeconomic and minority backgrounds.

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This study looked at how ocean temperatures in the North Atlantic affect drought conditions in the UK during the summer. The researchers found that changes in sea surface temperatures can impact rainfall and river flow in the UK as much as 1.5 years before the drought occurs. Understanding these connections is important for predicting droughts and managing water resources better, especially as climate change makes droughts more common. Who this helps: This helps governments, water resource managers, and communities planning for water usage.

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Researchers studied how a protein called Sigma-1 receptor (S1R) affects a process called glycolysis, which is important for providing energy to brain cells. They found that when S1R is missing, brain cells produce less energy and have changes in important molecules needed for energy production. Specifically, in experiments with cells and mice without S1R, glycolytic activity dropped by 50% and the ratio of NAD to NADH, which is crucial for energy balance, increased by 30%. Who this helps: This research can benefit patients with neurodegenerative diseases and aging-related conditions.

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This study looked at how common migraines are in Australian primary care and how they're managed. It found that about 7 out of every 1,000 people have been diagnosed with a migraine, and about 3.5 new cases occur each year for every 1,000 people. Many of these individuals also struggle with depression and anxiety, showing that migraines significantly impact quality of life and are often underdiagnosed, indicating that better awareness and education for both patients and doctors is needed. Who this helps: This helps patients with migraines and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well the MCAT, a test for medical school admission, predicts student success in medical school. It analyzed data from 12 studies involving over 39,000 students and found that there is a moderate relationship between MCAT scores and success on key medical exams, with a correlation of 0.49 for the first major exam and 0.42 for the second. These findings matter because they show that while the MCAT is somewhat helpful in predicting medical school performance, it's not the only factor to consider, and more research is needed, especially for different types of students. Who this helps: This helps medical schools and admissions committees improve their evaluation of applicants.

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This study focused on improving how newborns with severe perinatal asphyxia, or a lack of oxygen at birth, are treated in France. Experts agreed on 144 out of 165 specific recommendations for care practices, including using special equipment in delivery rooms and starting cooling treatments to protect the baby's brain right after birth. Standardizing these practices is crucial because it can lead to better outcomes for affected infants. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical teams who care for newborns, ensuring they have a clear plan to follow during critical moments.

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This study focused on increasing COVID-19 vaccination among Hispanic communities in Southern Arizona, which faced significant barriers to access. The researchers found that 93.3% of Hispanics had received a COVID-19 vaccination, compared to 84.8% of non-Hispanics, indicating higher vaccination rates among Hispanics despite higher COVID-19 infection rates of 41.9% versus 20.3% for non-Hispanics. Addressing these barriers and misinformation was crucial for improving vaccination rates and community health during the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps Hispanic patients, especially those in rural and underserved areas.

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This study looked at the heart health of children and teenagers who had COVID-19 but did not need to go to the hospital. Researchers compared heart scans from 71 kids who had recovered from COVID-19 with 33 healthy kids and found that those who had COVID-19 had slightly larger left ventricles and slightly lower heart function measurements, although everything was still within normal limits. This is important because it helps us understand that even mild cases of COVID-19 might have some lingering effects on heart size and function in children, signaling the need for monitoring after recovery. Who this helps: This helps doctors and parents of children and teens who have had COVID-19.

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This study focused on monitoring wastewater in two cities in Ontario, Canada, to detect when the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season starts for children. The researchers found that analyzing wastewater samples provided a reliable early warning system, allowing them to identify the start of the RSV season effectively. This is important as timely detection can help in preparing healthcare resources and protecting vulnerable children from severe cases of the virus. Who this helps: Patients, especially young children, and their families.

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This study looked at the presence of herbicide-resistant weeds in maize fields across New Zealand's North Island. Researchers found that about 29 to 52% of the farms had at least one type of resistant weed, with atrazine-resistant Chenopodium album found on a third of the farms surveyed and nicosulfuron-resistant Digitaria sanguinalis present in about 19% of farms in Waikato. Understanding the spread of these resistant weeds is important because it can help farmers manage their crops more effectively and prevent yield losses. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural workers.

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This study looked at the role of a protein called IL11 in diseases that cause tissue scarring, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and systemic scleroderma (SSc). Researchers found that while IL11 levels were higher in these diseases, blocking IL11 did not significantly reduce fibrosis compared to blocking another protein known as TGFβ. This means that targeting IL11 is not likely to be an effective treatment for these conditions, which is important information for developing new therapies. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers who are working on better treatments for patients with fibrotic diseases.

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This study looked at how Unity Health Toronto reviews serious incidents where patients were harmed to improve safety in healthcare. The findings showed that their structured reviews have been effective at creating a strong safety culture, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is crucial as recent data showed a rise in preventable harm in Canadian hospitals. This matters because improving patient safety directly enhances the quality of care and reduces the likelihood of patients being harmed. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by creating a safer healthcare environment.

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This study looked at how a drug called ABT-317, which blocks a protein involved in inflammation, affects cells from the joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that treating these cells with ABT-317 led to changes in over 2,600 genes due to inflammatory signals and created different groups of cells that behave differently. This is important because it helps us understand how the drug works at a molecular level and may improve treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

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This study looked at how measuring the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) in wastewater can help predict COVID-19 trends in Ontario, Canada. It used a method called Bayesian smoothing to analyze data from July 2020 to February 2022, showing that wastewater measurements matched well with reported COVID-19 case and hospitalization rates. The predictions for future viral levels were accurate, especially after the model was adjusted, demonstrating that this approach can help track the spread of COVID-19 effectively. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and policymakers who monitor and respond to COVID-19 outbreaks.

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This study examined how our brains perceive the speed of moving objects by focusing on a specific area called the middle temporal cortex (hMT+). Researchers found that this area uses two different methods to process speed: one looks at the spatial details, like how far an object moves in a certain time, and the other focuses on the timing of motion. They found that both methods work in different groups of brain cells, with the largest group specifically separating the details of moving visuals. This matters because it helps us understand the complex ways our brains interpret motion, which could improve treatments for conditions that affect vision. Who this helps: This helps patients with visual processing disorders.

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This study looked at how well a single dose of tinzaparin works to prevent blood clotting during 8-hour hemodialysis sessions, which are longer than usual. Researchers found that 40% of patients experienced some moderate clotting in the dialyzer or venous chamber, but nobody had severe clotting after treatment. This is important because it shows that tinzaparin can be a useful option for ensuring safe extended dialysis, although some patients might need a higher dose. Who this helps: Patients undergoing extended hemodialysis sessions.

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The study looked at how effective contact tracing and public health efforts were in getting people with COVID-19 and their close contacts to isolate or quarantine from January 2020 to March 2022. Out of over 64 million adults who tested positive for COVID-19, 79.6% isolated for at least 5 days, while 60.2% isolated for at least 10 days. Notably, people who participated in contact tracing were more likely to quarantine longer—61.2% quarantined for 5 days or more compared to 48.5% who did not participate. Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials by showing the importance of contact tracing in encouraging safety measures during COVID-19.

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Researchers studied how to change the behavior of certain immune cells called tumor-associated macrophages, which usually support tumor growth, into cells that can fight tumors instead. They developed tiny vesicles made from cell membranes that can effectively encourage these macrophages to switch from a pro-tumor to an anti-tumor state. Their findings showed that these programmed vesicles can successfully target and reprogram the immune cells, improving potential cancer treatments. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by improving immune responses against tumors.

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This research looked at how often a specific gene mutation, called PALB2, is found in people with ovarian cancer. Out of nearly 48,200 individuals with ovarian cancer, only 0.4% had this mutation. However, those with ovarian cancer were 2.48 times more likely to carry a PALB2 mutation compared to those without the disease, highlighting its potential link to ovarian cancer. Who this helps: This information benefits patients and doctors by improving understanding of genetic risks associated with ovarian cancer.

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This study looked at how American Indian communities, specifically the White Mountain Apache Tribe and Navajo Nation, set up COVID-19 testing in schools to address health and education issues during the pandemic. They found that with federal and state funding, weekly testing was able to be implemented successfully, but face challenges like communication problems and staff changes. Effective community partnerships were crucial for making these testing programs work well. Who this helps: This benefits students, teachers, and families in American Indian communities.

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This study looked at how analyzing wastewater can help detect the start of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season in children. The researchers found that wastewater testing in Ottawa and Hamilton predicted the beginning of RSV infections 12 days earlier than hospital data, with Ottawa's RSV season starting 36 days earlier than the provincial start date. This matters because it allows hospitals to prepare better for RSV cases and helps direct preventive treatments for vulnerable children. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients and healthcare providers by improving readiness for RSV outbreaks.

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This study focused on improving the production and shipping process of a radioactive substance called astatine-211, which can be used for targeted cancer treatment. The researchers developed a new method to isolate and send astatine-211 in a practical way, successfully shipping it in small packages with up to about 2.22 billion becquerels (GBq) of activity to cancer treatment centers like the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. This approach simplifies the delivery of astatine-211, making it more available for research and potential cancer therapies. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cancer treatment and the doctors leading their care.

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This study looked at how well researchers in Canada involve people who use their findings, like teachers and policymakers, in the process of education research. Out of 28 studies reviewed, most showed that these knowledge users participated at least twice in the research, mainly during the searching for information and data collection stages. This collaboration is important because it helps ensure that research is relevant and useful for real-world education issues. Who this helps: This benefits teachers, school administrators, and education policymakers.

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Researchers studied a sleep intervention aimed at helping young children from low-income families who had trouble sleeping. The study involved 15 families and found that after the intervention, 87% of them completed the program, and there were significant improvements in kids' sleep problems, including less time spent falling asleep and fewer nighttime awakenings. This is important because better sleep can lead to improved health and wellbeing for children and their families. Who this helps: This benefits young children and their parents, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

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This study looked at heart changes in children who had COVID-19 but did not need to go to the hospital. Out of 82 children examined, 17 (about 21%) showed some changes in their heart rhythms, but most of these changes were minor and improved over time. Importantly, there were no serious heart issues found in any of the children, and the findings did not relate to how severe their COVID-19 was or if they had long-lasting symptoms afterward. Who this helps: This information benefits parents and doctors by providing reassurance about the heart health of children with mild COVID-19.

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This study looked at changes in a major wind pattern known as the Eurasian subtropical westerly jet (ESWJ) over the last 40 years and found that it has weakened significantly, which can lead to extreme weather events. Researchers connected this weakening to human-made air pollution (aerosols), particularly from Europe and Asia, which affected temperatures in those regions. The findings suggest that if pollution levels decrease in Asia in the future, the wind pattern might strengthen again, potentially stabilizing the weather. Who this helps: This research benefits climate scientists and policymakers working to address air pollution and its impacts on weather.

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This study looked at how certain brain areas react when people try to suppress their responses after experiencing trauma, and whether these brain responses can predict the development of PTSD symptoms later on. Researchers found that lower activation in specific brain regions, the right inferior frontal gyrus and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, was linked to worse PTSD symptoms six months after trauma, with significant associations indicated by activation changes of 9.97 and 5.19 units, respectively. The findings suggest that problems with brain responses related to inhibiting actions could be a risk factor for developing PTSD after facing a traumatic event. Who this helps: This helps patients who have experienced trauma and may be at risk for PTSD.

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This study examined how genetics affects proteins in the blood by analyzing nearly 7,500 individuals of European and African descent. Researchers found over 2,000 distinct proteins linked to genetic variants specific to each ancestry, which can help predict protein levels in the body. This is important because it aids in understanding diseases and identifying treatment options, such as using the drug anakinra to manage gout flare-ups effectively. Who this helps: Patients with gout and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a program that helps Native youth learn about sexual and reproductive health and prevent teen pregnancy. The researchers switched the program to an online format because of COVID-19 and found it worked well for participants, with many appreciating the privacy of smaller virtual groups, even though some faced internet issues. This is important because it shows that virtual health programs can effectively reach Native youth, making support accessible regardless of location or pandemic-related challenges. Who this helps: This helps Native youth and their families access important health education.

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Researchers studied how special vesicles made from a type of immune cell called M1 macrophages can help fight ovarian cancer. They found that these M1-engineered vesicles (MEVs) successfully transformed harmful M2 macrophages into M1-like macrophages, which helped reduce the growth of ovarian cancer cells in lab tests. Specifically, the M1 MEVs not only targeted ovarian cancer cells better but also worked to make the cancer less able to resist treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with ovarian cancer who face treatment challenges.

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This study looked at the reasons people are hesitant to get vaccinated, based on data from WHO and UNICEF from 2014 to 2017. Researchers found that 59% of hesitancy was linked to personal and group influences, 25% to surrounding context, and 16% to specific vaccine-related issues. This information is important because understanding why people hesitate can help improve vaccination efforts, especially as COVID-19 vaccines are introduced. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers seeking to enhance vaccination rates.

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This study looked at a young woman with a severe form of myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease that affects muscle strength, and examined how eculizumab, a specific medication, worked during her pregnancy. The findings showed that the woman had a successful pregnancy without any negative effects from the treatment on her or her baby. This is important because it opens up possibilities for safe treatment options for pregnant women with this challenging condition. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with myasthenia gravis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) who switched from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment to subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg). Out of 15 patients, 20% stopped treatment for various reasons, but many reported better quality of life, especially in physical activity, after six months. Notably, 67% of those who completed the study chose to continue with SCIg, indicating it was a satisfactory option for them. Who this helps: This benefits patients with CIDP looking for effective and manageable treatment options.

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This study looks at how researchers and practitioners learn from each other in large climate and sustainability programs. The authors propose a new method to measure this social learning and its impact on strengthening both environmental and community resilience, highlighting the need for a clearer way to assess learning processes in complex collaborations. They found that better understanding these learning dynamics can help create more effective strategies for addressing climate change. Who this helps: This helps researchers, program managers, and policymakers working on climate and sustainability projects.

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This study looked at how training health care workers in Ghana can improve their skills and knowledge about immunization for children in their second year of life. After the training, 102 out of 115 health care workers showed some improvement, especially in making lists of children who missed vaccinations, although these changes were not statistically significant. This matters because better trained health workers can lead to better vaccination rates, which can protect children’s health. Who this helps: This benefits health care workers and the children they serve.

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This study looked at a 13-year-old Yorkshire terrier that showed severe signs of illness, including confusion and loss of appetite. Despite treatment, the dog's condition worsened, leading to neurological problems, and it was ultimately euthanized. A post-mortem examination revealed a rare infection in the brain caused by Enterococcus bacteria, which has not been previously documented in dogs. Recognizing this kind of infection is important because it requires special antibiotics for effective treatment. Who this helps: This research helps veterinarians by informing them about rare bacteria that can affect dogs' brains.

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The study focused on an initiative called Azhe'é Bidziil (Strong Fathers), aimed at improving health and well-being among Navajo fathers. Researchers developed a program tailored to their culture, consisting of 12 weekly sessions for 750 fathers, covering topics like positive parenting, financial stability, and relationship building. Results will assess how engaging fathers improves family dynamics and economic status, addressing significant health and social issues faced by Native men. Who this helps: This helps Native fathers and their families.

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This study looked at how effective it is to give patients started on buprenorphine, a treatment for opioid addiction, directly from the emergency department (ED). Researchers found that out of nearly 4,000 patients screened, 94 had opioid use disorders, and 68 agreed to participate in the study. Ultimately, 32% of those who received microdoses were still in therapy after 30 days, showing that both standard and microdosing approaches can work and are feasible for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with opioid addiction, especially those who may have difficulty with traditional treatment methods.