BRADLEY HOWARD LEVIN, M.D.

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This study looked at how a specific type of heart imaging (FDG-PET) relates to heart conditions called cardiomyopathies, especially in patients without a genetic cause. Out of 372 patients examined, 142 (38%) showed significant FDG uptake, and those without a known genetic cause had a higher risk of heart failure and serious heart rhythm problems compared to those without FDG uptake. Importantly, treatments that suppress the immune system did not show benefits for patients with FDG uptake, suggesting these patients may not have inflammation that needs such treatment. Who this helps: This research is valuable for doctors treating patients with unexplained heart conditions and helps identify which patients may need different approaches to care.

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This study focused on a new type of medication designed to target specific cancers by blocking proteins called Cyclins A and B that help cells divide. Researchers found that a new version of their drug, which can be taken by mouth, reduced tumors in models of small-cell lung cancer. This matters because it offers a potential new treatment option for a type of cancer that is often hard to treat. Who this helps: Patients with small-cell lung cancer.

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This study examined how the concentration of red blood cells in the blood, measured as hematocrit, relates to the risk of developing dementia in a diverse group of older adults who had not experienced a stroke. The researchers found that participants with lower hematocrit levels faced a higher risk of dementia, with a nearly doubled risk (1.81 times) compared to those with normal levels. This is important because it suggests that monitoring and potentially improving hematocrit levels could help in reducing dementia risk. Who this helps: This information can benefit patients, particularly older adults, and healthcare providers aiming to prevent dementia.

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This study reviewed various tests that measure memory, language, and visual skills in people with Parkinson's Disease (PD) to find the best ways to identify cognitive problems like mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Out of 39 tests looked at, 7 were rated as the best options for assessing memory, visual skills, and language, while others were categorized as useful but with some limitations. This is important because using the right tests can help doctors better diagnose and track cognitive decline in PD, improving care and treatment for patients. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's Disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined the evolutionary history of a group of freshwater fish called Nemacheilidae across Eurasia, using genetic data from 471 specimens of 279 species. Researchers found that these fish originated in Indochina around 48 million years ago and expanded across various regions, but climate changes led to extinction events. This research is important because it helps us understand how environmental changes have shaped the diversity of fish species we see today. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying biodiversity and conservation efforts focused on freshwater ecosystems.

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The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) looked into how effective genetic counseling is for people at risk of hereditary cancer. They found that there's not enough high-quality research to support clear guidelines, so they are calling for more studies, especially to better understand the effects of genetic counseling on diverse populations. This research is important because it will help ensure that all patients receive the best possible guidance based on reliable information. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for hereditary cancer and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at how yoga training affects blood flow and small blood vessels in the eyes, and how those changes relate to improvements in thinking skills in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The researchers found that after 24 weeks of yoga, increases in blood flow and capillary density in the retina were linked to better performance on cognitive tests, with stronger relationships shown by correlation values ranging from 0.50 to 0.83. This matters because it helps establish that eye health may be a useful way to track cognitive improvements in PD patients who practice yoga. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), harmful chemicals found in many products, to see how they relate to thinking problems and dementia. Researchers found that these substances may harm brain health, increasing the risk of dementia and other cognitive issues. They aim to gather strong evidence by measuring PFAS levels in over 1,000 people to see how it affects their health over time, which could lead to better public health policies and ways to reduce exposure. Who this helps: This helps patients, public health officials, and communities affected by PFAS exposure.

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This study looked at how HIV affects fatigue in post-menopausal women by examining brain connections and inflammation levels. It found that women with HIV had higher inflammation markers and weaker connections in a specific part of the brain, leading to increased fatigue. This is important because it highlights the need for tailored strategies to manage fatigue in HIV-positive women after menopause. Who this helps: Patients living with HIV, particularly post-menopausal women.

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This paper explores how bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics, focusing on two new areas: antechodynamics, which looks at how bacteria chemically change antibiotics, and antechokinetics, which studies how these resistance molecules are distributed and change over time in the body. The researchers aim to connect this knowledge of antibiotic resistance with the existing understanding of how antibiotics work and how they are processed in the body, making it easier to choose the right medication for infections. This matters because antibiotic resistance is a growing problem, and understanding these processes can help develop better treatments and overcome resistance. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients by improving infection management and treatment options.

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This study looked at how mild to moderate cognitive issues in people with Parkinson's disease affect the results of deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. Researchers tested 50 patients before and after the surgery and found that while memory and anxiety declined a bit in those with normal cognitive function, those who were mildly or moderately impaired had stable cognitive and mood outcomes. Importantly, all groups saw a consistent reduction in medication usage after surgery, suggesting that cognitive deficits do not significantly impact surgery results overall. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease and their doctors in making better decisions about surgical options.

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This study looked at how intense military training for eight weeks affected the feet of young adults in the U.S. military. Researchers measured different aspects of foot structure and function in 106 cadets at the start and after eight weeks. They found that, after training, the arches of the feet became higher, while foot function improved by reducing certain pressures and increasing forces in specific areas, which is important for reducing injury risk during demanding activities. Who this helps: This helps military training programs and young cadets by providing insights into how their feet adapt to rigorous training.

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This research focused on a specific interaction in cancer cells that can lead to their uncontrolled growth. Scientists discovered new drugs that can effectively block this interaction, leading to promising results in laboratory tests; one of these drugs worked well in mouse models, significantly countering the growth of tumors. This is significant because it offers a new way to target certain types of cancers that rely on the E2F pathway, which is often hyperactive in these tumors. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients whose tumors are driven by E2F activity.

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This study focused on a type of lung cancer called small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and how certain drugs can target cancer cells that have lost key cancer-fighting genes. The researchers created a new treatment called cyclin A/B inhibitors, which successfully killed SCLC cells by overactivating a protein that causes cell death. When tested in mice that had SCLC similar to that in patients, the drug showed strong anti-cancer effects, suggesting it could help fight resistant forms of this disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients with small-cell lung cancer, especially those who do not respond to existing treatments.

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This study focused on improving the accuracy of diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis, a condition where the heart is affected by inflammation. Traditional biopsy methods often miss diagnosing this disease, detecting it in less than 25% of cases. By using a new imaging method called unipolar mapping combined with 3D electroanatomic mapping, doctors were able to better target biopsy samples, ultimately confirming the disease in a patient who experienced cardiac arrest during exercise. Who this helps: This helps patients with suspected cardiac sarcoidosis by providing a more reliable diagnosis.

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This study looked at how different types of exercise affect brain function in people aged 85 and older. Researchers found that those who engaged in both cardio and strength training performed best on cognitive tests, with significant improvements in tasks like Coding and Symbol Search compared to those who were inactive. This is important because it shows that regular exercise can help maintain mental sharpness in very old adults. Who this helps: This benefits elderly patients seeking to improve or maintain their cognitive abilities.

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This study looked at three different methods to prevent nerve damage caused by taxane chemotherapy in breast cancer patients: cryotherapy (cold treatment), compression therapy, and a placebo. Out of 63 patients, those using compression therapy had the best results, with 65% experiencing less nerve damage compared to only 41% for both cryotherapy and the placebo. This is important because effective prevention of nerve damage can improve quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Who this helps: Patients with breast cancer receiving taxane chemotherapy.

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This study created a database of fish scales to help researchers and educators understand and identify different freshwater fish species. It includes over 2,900 scale photos from 193 species, providing detailed information about each fish's characteristics, size, and habitat needs. This is important because it allows for better research into fish populations and ecosystems while also making it easier to identify species in the future using technology. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, educators, and conservationists working with freshwater fish.

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This study looked at how the stiffness of arteries, measured through something called estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV), affects cognitive abilities in a diverse group of older adults. Researchers found that a higher ePWV, averaging 11 meters per second, was linked to poorer cognitive function and a greater decline in cognitive abilities over about five years. This is important because it shows that keeping our blood vessels healthy could help maintain brain function as we age. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially seniors, by highlighting the importance of vascular health for preserving cognitive function.

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Researchers studied a new treatment, called cyclin A/B inhibitors, targeting small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells with high levels of a protein called E2F1, which promotes cancer cell growth. They found that these inhibitors effectively killed SCLC cells by triggering a process that leads to cell death, and they demonstrated that the treatment reduced tumor growth in models resistant to traditional chemotherapy. This is important because it offers a potential new way to treat hard-to-manage lung cancers and other cancers driven by high E2F activity. Who this helps: This helps patients with small cell lung cancer and similar aggressive cancers.

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This study looked at whether the concentration of red blood cells (measured through hematocrit levels) influences the risk of developing dementia in a diverse group of older adults who had not experienced a stroke. Researchers found that participants with lower hematocrit levels had an increased risk of developing dementia, with those in the low hematocrit group being 81% more likely to develop dementia than those with normal levels; about 16% of participants developed dementia over the study period. Understanding this relationship is important because if low hematocrit can be treated, it might help prevent dementia. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients, doctors, and healthcare providers focusing on cognitive health.

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This study examined 372 species of testate amoebae, which are tiny creatures found in soil, to understand their characteristics and ecological importance. The researchers gathered information about their shapes and feeding methods, which can help scientists learn how these organisms affect soil health and respond to environmental changes. This is important because testate amoebae can indicate how ecosystems are faring and can aid in environmental monitoring. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying ecosystems and environmental changes.

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This study looked at the impact of rainbow trout, a popular fish farm species, in the Balkhash basin of Kazakhstan, where they have lived for about 50 years. Researchers found that these trout thrive in different kinds of waterways, with the largest populations in Lower Kolsay Lake, where they reduced the numbers of native fish. Interestingly, while the trout grew more slowly than before, they now live longer, and their coloring varies depending on whether they live in cold or warm waters. Who this helps: This research benefits ecologists and conservationists focusing on maintaining local fish populations.

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This study looked at how listening to familiar music could help older adults recall personal memories and how their brains respond to this activity. Researchers found that when 24 healthy older adults listened to familiar songs, there was increased brain activity in a specific area associated with memory, the right parahippocampal gyrus. This is important because older adults often face memory challenges as their brains age, and understanding this connection may lead to new non-drug treatments for memory issues. Who this helps: This helps older adults and those who care for them, including doctors and caregivers.

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This study looked at a program designed to improve cancer genetics services across five health systems, led by genetic counselors using virtual support. The program was successfully implemented, with nearly all participants reporting positive changes: 82% became more aware of clinical processes and 94% increased their knowledge of quality improvement (QI) methods. This matters because it shows that targeted programs can enhance skills and teamwork in cancer genetics, ultimately leading to better patient care. Who this helps: Patients seeking cancer genetics services and the healthcare professionals who provide them.

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This study looked at how reclassifying genetic variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers affects patients at four cancer centers. Among 2,715 individuals, 8.1% of those with VUS had their results reclassified, with significant differences between locations—some had as high as 20.19% reclassification rates while others had only 4.81%. Importantly, 11.3% of the reclassifications led to changes in treatment plans, highlighting the importance of accurately interpreting genetic tests for better cancer care. Who this helps: Patients with a genetic predisposition to cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the genetic factors influencing executive function, which includes skills like mental flexibility and reasoning, in a diverse group of people from Northern Manhattan. Researchers found four specific genetic markers, or SNPs, linked to these cognitive abilities, with the strongest connection seen in a marker called rs2788328. This research is important because it enhances our understanding of how genetics can affect thinking skills, especially in populations that have been historically overlooked in medical studies. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, by providing insights that could lead to better mental health care and personalized approaches.

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This study looked at two different versions of a care program designed to help people with HIV in New York City and compared their effectiveness. Researchers found that the newer version of the program led to timely viral suppression (getting the virus's level below a certain threshold) for about 42% of participants, while the original program had a similar, slightly higher rate. This matters because it shows that changing the program did not improve patients' health outcomes as hoped. Who this helps: Patients with HIV.

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This study looked at how aging and inflammation affect grip strength in older adults. Researchers found that as people age, especially men over 50, their grip strength decreases more significantly if their neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (a measure of inflammation) is higher. Specifically, older men with increased inflammation showed notable declines in both their grip strength and the brain activity related to grip force. Who this helps: This information helps doctors understand how inflammation impacts physical strength in older men, guiding better care and treatment for aging patients.

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This study looked at a program designed to improve access to genetic counseling and testing for patients with ovarian cancer and triple-negative breast cancer at five health systems. The initiative successfully increased referrals for genetic counseling from 44% to 61% for ovarian cancer patients and from 68% to 72% for those with triple-negative breast cancer. This is important because better access to genetic services can help identify hereditary cancer risks and guide treatment options. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how immigrant and native teenagers in Taiwan develop disordered eating habits. Researchers found that 27% of immigrant adolescents reported disordered eating compared to 15% of native adolescents. The reasons differ between the two groups: immigrant teens are more affected by teasing from friends and often overestimate their weight, while native teens are influenced by family-related teasing. Who this helps: This research helps immigrant adolescents and the schools that support them.

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Researchers studied how a protein called PPP1R12C affects heart muscle contraction in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. They found that in AF patients, levels of PPP1R12C were doubled compared to those with normal heart rhythm, and this led to a significant decrease of over 40% in the phosphorylation of another protein essential for muscle contraction. This matters because reduced contraction of the heart's atria can increase the risk of stroke, which is already five times higher in people with AF. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with atrial fibrillation by potentially guiding new treatments to improve heart function.

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This study focused on improving how well people with HIV in New York City stick to their treatment, which is crucial for reducing the spread of the virus. Researchers tested a new intervention that provided support programs with data on clients who weren’t achieving viral suppression, aiming to boost follow-up care. They plan to enroll around 1,619 people and expect that their approach will more than double the likelihood of timely viral suppression from about 40% to around 84% within six months after the intervention. Who this helps: This benefits patients with HIV and the healthcare providers supporting their treatment.

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This study looked at how to better evaluate new non-invasive tests for screening colorectal cancer (CRC), given advancements in technology and new biomarkers. Researchers created a new set of guidelines, proposing a four-phase testing approach, which includes comparing new tests to established ones like the faecal immunochemical test and assessing their effectiveness in real-world settings. Their findings emphasize that by following these steps, we can more accurately determine how well these new tests can help reduce CRC deaths. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing safer and more effective screening options for colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at a group of fish from East Africa that have developed thick lips, known as "rubberlips." Researchers found that while thick-lipped and regular-lipped fish can share the same habitat, the thick-lipped ones tend to have a different diet, focusing more on eating small invertebrates, while regular ones eat a broader range of food. This research is important because it highlights how similar adaptations can evolve independently in different species and how these changes affect their survival and interaction with the environment. Who this helps: This research benefits ecologists and conservationists studying fish evolution and biodiversity.

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This study looked at a protein called PPP1R12C, which was found to have higher levels in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. The research showed that PPP1R12C reduces the ability of heart muscle cells to contract effectively, decreasing their strength by more than 40% and leading to an increased risk of complications like stroke. Specifically, mice genetically modified to have more PPP1R12C experienced a significant increase in heart size and a higher chance of developing AF. Who this helps: This study benefits patients with atrial fibrillation by identifying a potential target for new treatments.

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This paper looks at the concept called abiotrophy, developed by neurologist William Gowers, which describes how certain tissues can gradually lose their vitality and function beyond just normal aging. The authors argue that abiotrophy can happen at any age due to genetic factors, and it goes beyond the idea of simply aging too quickly. They believe Gowers's ideas are still relevant today in understanding neurological diseases and their causes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with neurological conditions and researchers studying genetic influences on diseases.

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This study looked at how different factors affect disordered eating among 7th to 9th graders in Taiwan, focusing on both boys and girls. Researchers surveyed 729 students and found that while boys and girls showed similar rates of disordered eating, girls worried more about their weight, while boys engaged in extreme dieting behaviors. Importantly, factors like family teasing and peer pressure were strongly linked to disordered eating in girls, suggesting that changing the way weight is discussed in families and schools could help reduce these harmful eating behaviors. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents struggling with disordered eating, their families, and educators.

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This research paper looks at how aging-related diseases and mortality are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The study found that these factors can be divided into categories based on how early or late they appear and whether they are influenced by our evolutionary history. The findings highlight that changing lifestyle and reducing harmful environmental exposures can significantly promote healthier aging. Who this helps: This benefits patients and public health advocates focused on improving healthy aging practices.

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This study looked at how the need for kidney treatment (called renal replacement therapy or RRT) affects the survival of adults using a life-support system called venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Researchers found that one-year survival rates were lower for patients needing RRT, whether it was before starting ECMO (about 25.6% survived) or during ECMO (around 23.7%) compared to those who didn't need RRT (46.8%). This matters because it highlights that needing kidney treatment signals a more severe health condition and helps doctors better evaluate which patients may benefit from ECMO treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare teams make more informed decisions for patients with severe conditions requiring ECMO.

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Researchers studied the history and recent developments of transperineal prostate biopsy, a method for diagnosing prostate cancer. They found that this approach, which has improved due to better anesthesia and technology, is now recommended as the first choice for biopsy in Europe and is gaining popularity in the U.S. This matters because it offers a safer and more effective way to diagnose prostate cancer, reducing the risk of infections often associated with older methods. Who this helps: Patients undergoing prostate cancer diagnosis.

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This study looked at how often women with different genetic variations related to breast cancer get regular check-ups like mammograms and MRIs. Researchers found that women with variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were much less likely to have preventive surgery, with only 17% the likelihood compared to women with known harmful variants. Additionally, the use of breast surveillance for women with VUS dropped significantly over time, from almost 50% in the first year to just over 30% after six years, showing that women with a personal history of breast cancer maintained higher surveillance rates. Who this helps: This research helps patients with breast cancer risk variants, their doctors, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the use of adalimumab, a medication commonly used for other conditions, in treating seven patients with cardiac sarcoidosis at the University of Illinois Health from 2011 to 2022. All patients responded positively to the treatment, with five able to stop their corticosteroid use entirely and two reducing their dosage, with no reported side effects. This is important because it shows that adalimumab is a safe and effective option for patients with this condition, potentially reducing reliance on stronger steroids. Who this helps: This helps patients with cardiac sarcoidosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at fish species in the Kama River Basin in Russia, collecting data from 2008 to 2021. Researchers identified 48 different types of fish, with 46 being specific species, and documented 6,447 individual sightings. This information is important because it helps us understand the biodiversity in this major river system and can guide conservation efforts. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists and environmental agencies working to protect aquatic ecosystems.

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This study looks at whether dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson's disease (PD) should be treated as one illness or two. It finds that merging these disorders could make it harder to discover the specific genetic and environmental causes of each condition, which are crucial for developing effective treatments. Understanding these differences is important because targeting the right causes could lead to better therapies for patients. Who this helps: Patients with Lewy body disorders and their doctors.

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This study looked at fish found in the Kuban River Basin in Russia, compiling information on 1,328 sightings. Researchers gathered data from various sources, including past literature and their own sampling from 1889 to 2020, with more than 61% of these records being new. This information is important because it improves our understanding of the fish species living in this unique freshwater area. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and conservationists working to protect aquatic life in the region.