DR. BRUCE J. BRENER, MD

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This study looked at a specific technique called cutting balloon septotomy to repair a 5-centimeter aneurysm in the right common iliac artery of a patient who had a type B aortic dissection that developed 10 years after previous surgery. The researchers found that using this method helped improve the area where a stent could be placed, making the repair easier and more effective. This matters because it offers a new way to fix aneurysms in patients with complex conditions, potentially leading to better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with aneurysms and aortic dissections.

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This study focused on creating and testing a computer model to predict the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in adults aged 50-74 who are eligible for screening. Researchers analyzed health records from over 1.1 million people and found that those in the top 1% of risk scores had a CRC rate of 2.3%, compared to just 0.3% for others, showing that the model greatly improves risk identification. This is important because it helps doctors better target those at high risk, leading to earlier diagnoses and potentially better outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits both patients at risk of colorectal cancer and healthcare providers looking to improve screening methods.

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This study looked at lice that infest the white-chinned petrel, a seabird found in Brazilian waters. Researchers found four species of chewing lice on two rescued petrels, with three species already known to infect this bird and one new to Brazil and one new to this host type. Understanding these lice can help scientists learn more about wildlife health and biodiversity in Brazil. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying wildlife health and conservation efforts.

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This study examined the intestinal parasites found in the feces of wild caititus (a type of pig) and domestic pigs in southeastern Brazil. Researchers analyzed samples from 64 animals and discovered that 64% of the domestic pigs had parasites, compared to 27% of the caititus, with a total of 18 different species identified. This is important because the presence of these parasites not only affects the health of the animals but also raises concerns about potential health risks for nearby human communities and the impact on local wildlife. Who this helps: This helps farmers, wildlife conservationists, and public health officials.

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The study looked at the chewing lice found on the brown booby birds in southeastern Brazil. Researchers collected lice from live birds and carcasses at rehabilitation centers and discovered two species of lice, Eidmanniella albescens and Pectinopygus garbei, which had never been recorded in Rio de Janeiro before. This discovery is important because it helps us understand the health risks these parasites pose to the birds and their environments. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and wildlife researchers working with seabirds.

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This study examined the types of lice found on frigatebirds, specifically looking at birds along the coasts of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo in Brazil. Researchers found three species of lice: Colpocephalum spineum, Fregatiella aurifasciata, and Pectinopygus fregatiphagus. Notably, it was the first time F. aurifasciata and C. spineum have been reported in Brazil, while P. fregatiphagus had only been recorded in the Rio de Janeiro state for the first time. Who this helps: This information benefits wildlife researchers and conservationists studying bird health and ecology.

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This study focuses on a parasite called Tritrichomonas foetus, which causes chronic diarrhea in cats that includes mucus and blood. It can be hard to diagnose because it's often confused with other parasites and can resist common treatments. The research highlights the need for veterinarians to properly identify and treat this infection, as untreated cats can carry the parasite for months or even years. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and cat owners dealing with chronic diarrhea in their pets.

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This study looked at how changing certain factors in the testing process could improve the detection of intestinal parasites in patients. Researchers found that by using longer sedimentation times and analyzing more samples, they could identify parasites in all 22 patients using the spontaneous sedimentation method, compared to only 59% with another method. These findings show that making small adjustments to testing techniques can lead to better diagnosis of intestinal infections, which is crucial for effective treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients who are being tested for intestinal parasites.

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Researchers studied a type of parasite called Dollfusentis found in a fish species from Brazil. They identified a new species named Dollfusentis lenti, which has a long body with a specific arrangement of spines and hooks that are crucial for its classification. This discovery adds important knowledge to our understanding of these parasites and their relationships to other similar species. Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers who study fish parasites and marine ecology.

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This study looked at the prevalence of a parasitic infection called dirofilariasis in dogs from specific areas in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Researchers tested blood samples from dogs and found that all samples shared the same genetic markers for the parasite, indicating that it could be widespread across different animal species globally. This information is important because it helps understand the distribution and genetic make-up of this infection, which can impact both animal and human health. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners.

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In this study, researchers investigated ancient human and animal samples from South America to see if certain gut parasites could be reliably detected using immunoenzymatic tests. Out of 60 samples, over half (31) tested positive for intestinal protozoans, with 46.6% showing evidence of Giardia duodenalis, 26.6% for Cryptosporidium sp., and 5% for Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar. These findings suggest that these parasites have infected humans and animals for over 7,150 years, but raise concerns about whether the positive results for G. duodenalis are truly accurate, indicating a need for more research on testing methods. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying ancient diseases and modern healthcare professionals dealing with parasitic infections.

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This study focused on improving a test used to detect Giardia, a common intestinal parasite in dogs and cats, by adapting it for frozen fecal samples. Researchers found that the modified test was more accurate than the traditional microscopic method, consistently detecting Giardia even in samples frozen for over a decade. This is important because it allows for better diagnosis and monitoring of Giardia infections, regardless of how long the samples have been stored. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners in identifying Giardia infections in pets more reliably.

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This study looked at two young cats with chronic diarrhea and found they were infected with a type of parasite called trichomonads. Despite previous treatment with a common drug, metronidazole, that didn’t work, switching to a different drug called ronidazole improved their condition, making their stools normal again. This is important because it highlights the need for better diagnosis and treatment options for cats with diarrhea, especially those with weakened immune systems. Who this helps: This benefits cat owners and veterinarians treating cats with chronic diarrhea.

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This study looked at ancient feces from extinct animals to see if they contained evidence of the parasite Giardia, which causes gastrointestinal illness. Researchers tested samples from two species, a ground sloth and an extinct llama, and found signs of Giardia in both, confirming that these animals carried the parasite over 10,000 years ago. This is important because it provides insights into how parasites have interacted with animal populations over time and could help scientists study similar samples without using up valuable resources. Who this helps: This benefits researchers in paleontology and parasitology.

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This research paper studied a case of heartworm infection in a cat in Brazil. The case involved a 10-year-old female cat that was diagnosed with heartworm using a test meant for dogs, which is not typically used for cats. Sadly, the cat experienced serious respiratory problems and died within weeks, confirming the importance of diagnosing this disease correctly and advocating for preventive measures in cats similar to those used in dogs. Who this helps: This information benefits cat owners and veterinarians by highlighting the need for better heartworm testing and prevention for cats.

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This study looked at how many cats in Lima, Peru, are infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can be harmful. Researchers tested 154 blood samples and 50 stool samples from cats and found that about 11% of the cats had been exposed to the parasite. They discovered that cats that hunt or are fed raw meat are more likely to be infected. This research is important because understanding how T. gondii spreads helps improve health advice for pet owners. Who this helps: Pet owners and veterinarians.

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This study looked at the presence of a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii in pet cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Out of 108 cats tested, only 5.6% showed signs of exposure to the parasite, and none had the eggs of the parasite in their feces. This indicates that most cats have not been infected and therefore do not pose a risk of spreading the parasite in the environment. Who this helps: This benefits pet owners and public health officials concerned about the spread of Toxoplasma.

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Researchers studied mites infesting cockatiels, examining 36 birds and finding that 22 of them (61%) had mite infestations. The most common mite was Nymphicilichus perezae, found in 27.3% of feather samples, while other types like Psittophagus sp. appeared in 13.5% of samples. Understanding these mite populations is important because it helps in managing the health of cockatiels and preventing potential health issues related to infestations. Who this helps: This helps cockatiel owners and veterinarians.

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This study looked at two cases of a type of parasitic infection called dirofilariosis in dogs from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It’s noteworthy because it's the first time such cases of the parasite have been found in unusual areas within the state, and both cases occurred close together in time. Since this parasite can also affect humans and is common in the area, it highlights the need for better control measures to protect both dogs and people. Who this helps: This helps pet owners and public health officials.

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This study looked at two types of parasitic worms, Baruscapillaria obsignata and Eucoleus annulatus, in Brazilian turkeys. They found that 72.5% of the turkeys had B. obsignata, with an average of 68 worms each, while only 2.5% had E. annulatus. While the turkeys showed some signs of inflammation in their intestines, there were no severe injuries observed, marking the first report of these worms' effects on turkeys in Brazil. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and veterinarians by providing insights into turkey health and management.

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This study looked at the distribution of different pigments in the eyes of young people under 25 years old. Researchers used a special camera to measure macular pigment, cone and rod photopigments, and melanin in the retina. They found that macular pigment and cone photopigments were highest in the central part of the retina, while rod photopigments were lower there, and melanin was spread out more evenly. Who this helps: This helps eye doctors and researchers understand how these pigments may affect vision in young patients.

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This study looked at the levels of infection caused by three parasites in turkeys in Brazil. The nematode Heterakis gallinarum was found in 70% of the birds but usually didn’t cause visible damage unless combined with the protozoan Histomonas meleagridis, which was present in 2.5% of the cases and led to serious liver issues. The trematode Paratanaisia bragai was found in 20% of the turkeys, but it did not seem to cause major problems. Who this helps: This information is valuable for farmers and veterinarians who care for turkey health.

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This study looked at a new way to deliver sections of veins with valves into the femoral vein of dogs without surgery. Researchers tested two methods: traditional stitching and a new technique using a stent. In 6 out of 7 dogs, the new stent method worked well for up to 120 days, with the valves functioning properly, showing that this approach could be a useful alternative for future treatments. Who this helps: This research benefits patients needing vein surgeries, particularly those with valve issues.

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This study looked at a surgical procedure that combines two methods for treating heart and neck artery problems in patients who have both. They studied 13 patients, who were mostly around 71 years old, and found that none experienced major complications like strokes or heart attacks. On average, patients stayed in the hospital for about 8 days and all were doing well during follow-up visits ranging from 2 weeks to 16 months afterward. Who this helps: This benefits patients with both coronary artery disease and carotid artery disease.

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This study looked at whether stopping low-dose aspirin could help prevent bleeding during oral surgery. Researchers studied 39 patients who took 100 milligrams of aspirin daily, comparing those who stopped taking it a week before surgery to those who continued. They found that the bleeding time was longer for those who continued the aspirin (3.1 minutes) compared to those who stopped (1.8 minutes), but both groups had normal bleeding times, and no uncontrolled bleeding occurred during surgery. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who take aspirin for heart health, as they can safely continue their medication during oral surgeries without increasing bleeding risks.

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This study looked at how well stents can help patients who rely on hemodialysis by fixing blockages in their veins. Out of 19 patients, all received stents, which successfully improved blood flow and allowed continued dialysis. After 17 months, the success rate of keeping the veins open was about 68%, with an even higher rate of 93% when considering additional treatments for any new blockages. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing hemodialysis who experience problems with their vein access.

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This study looked at a new type of ultrasound called forward-looking intravascular ultrasound (FL-IVUS), which can better visualize arteries during procedures to open blocked vessels. Researchers tested FL-IVUS on human cadaver leg arteries and found it accurately measured artery sizes with a high accuracy rate of 92%. This advancement matters because it helps doctors see exactly what’s happening in narrowed or blocked arteries, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with severe artery blockages. Who this helps: This helps doctors treating patients with severe arterial blockages.

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This study focused on how to manage bleeding due to portal hypertension, particularly in patients with liver cirrhosis from alcohol use. Researchers found that immediate treatment, including fluid replenishment and specific procedures, is crucial for controlling variceal bleeding—failure to manage this can lead to high mortality rates, especially in severely ill patients. For stable patients, certain surgical options showed better outcomes, enhancing survival rates for those not dependent on alcohol, but the best methods for high-risk patients remain unclear. Who this helps: This research helps doctors treating patients with severe liver issues to make better decisions on managing bleeding complications.