CONOR CUNNINGHAM, MD

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This study looked at how often adults in the U.S. quit smoking cigarettes from 2014 to 2021, focusing on those who also used electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). It found that quitting rates increased significantly for users of menthol and fruit-flavored ENDS, as well as for different device types like disposables and cartridge devices. Notably, young adults aged 18-24 had quitting rates nearly three times higher than older adults. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients trying to quit smoking and healthcare providers looking to support them.

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This study looked at how using a standard blood culture collection kit in an emergency room can reduce the number of contaminated samples. The researchers found that the contamination rate dropped from above 3% to just 0.97%, which is a significant improvement. This is important because lower contamination rates lead to more accurate diagnoses and better antibiotic treatments for patients. Who this helps: Patients who need accurate blood tests for effective treatment.

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This study looked at how far and how much it costs for people to travel to different types of substance use disorder treatments in New York State. It found that outpatient opioid treatment programs took the longest time to reach (about 7.8 hours) and cost the most (around $140), compared to outpatient treatment (4.4 hours and $80) and residential treatment (just 36 minutes and $9). This matters because long travel times and high costs can prevent people from getting the help they need. Who this helps: Patients seeking substance use disorder treatment.

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This research studied the effects of two types of blood pressure medications—angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is)—on bone health in older adults who were not being treated for osteoporosis. The study found that ARB users had higher bone mineral density (BMD) compared to non-users: 0.856 g/cm at the femoral neck, 0.937 g/cm at the total hip, and 1.122 g/cm at the lumbar spine, all significantly higher than those not using ARBs. In contrast, ACE-I users showed no improvement in BMD. This is important because it suggests that ARBs could help maintain stronger bones in older adults, potentially reducing the risk of fractures. Who this helps: This helps older patients, especially those with high blood pressure.

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This research focused on a new method for measuring how drugs interact with their targets inside living cells, rather than using traditional lab methods that often don't work well for complex drug targets. The study introduced a novel technique using split enzymes that allowed researchers to observe drug engagement at different temperatures, making it more flexible and sensitive. Specifically, this new method was tested on drug targets MAPK1, KRAS, and UBE2N, showing improved accuracy in tracking drug interactions compared to older methods. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers in the drug discovery field by providing a better way to understand how drugs work inside cells.

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This study examined how the structure of trabecular (spongy) bone in the lower part of the thigh bone (femur) of children develops during key growth stages from before birth to age seven. Researchers analyzed 63 bone samples and found that bone density decreased sharply in the first two years after birth, with the lowest density occurring between ages one and two, possibly due to less mechanical stress and nutrition after leaving the womb. After age two, bone density increased again, indicating that the bone structure adapts in response to physical activity as children grow. Who this helps: This benefits pediatricians and researchers focusing on child development and bone health.

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This study focused on creating a health campaign in Texas aimed at raising awareness of mental health issues and preventing substance use problems, especially in light of the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers gathered insights from over 3,000 Texans through surveys and conducted interviews with community leaders to understand views on these issues. Their findings revealed a significant rise in mental health and substance use problems since the pandemic, highlighting the importance of social connections and the need for better education on these topics. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with mental health and substance use issues, as well as healthcare providers and community leaders.

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This study looked at the challenges and benefits of applying new medical practices in children's surgery settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Out of 28 pediatric anesthetists surveyed, all of them encountered difficulties in making changes, mainly due to a lack of resources and resistance from others, but 80% found some supports that helped them implement changes. This research highlights the need for better training in leadership and change management to help these doctors improve patient care when they return to their home countries. Who this helps: Pediatric anesthetists and their patients in sub-Saharan Africa.

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This study looked at how participating in New York's medical cannabis program affected adults with chronic pain and their use of prescription opioids. Out of 204 participants, those who received a 30-day supply of medical cannabis reported using 3.53 fewer morphine milligram equivalents (MME) of opioids per day compared to those who did not receive cannabis. This finding is important because it shows that medical cannabis can help decrease reliance on powerful pain medications, which can be addictive. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic pain looking for safer alternatives to opioid medications.

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This study looked at how different treatment methods for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) affect patients' quality of life. Researchers analyzed data from 13 studies involving nearly 5,800 patients and found that those who were monitored without immediate treatment (active surveillance) reported a better quality of life than those who had surgery. Specifically, active surveillance led to fewer issues related to voice, concentration, and psychological distress compared to surgery, which is significant for making treatment choices. Who this helps: This benefits patients with PTMC and their doctors by providing clearer options for managing their condition based on quality of life outcomes.

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This study looked at the challenges faced by paramedics moving from vocational training to a postgraduate diploma program at a South African university. Researchers found that recognition of their prior experience helped them enroll, but many struggled with academic writing and using digital learning tools. Providing targeted support in these areas is crucial for their success and can improve the overall learning experience for all students. Who this helps: This helps vocational learners and educational institutions improve their support systems.

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This study looked at how the dose of an HIV antibody called VRC07-523LS affects infants and compared it to adults. Researchers found that giving infants an 80 mg dose followed by 100 mg at 12 weeks keeps antibody levels above a critical threshold (10 µg/mL) for over 24 weeks. This is significant because it suggests that this dosing strategy could offer effective treatment against HIV for infants, potentially improving their health outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits infants at risk for HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how testosterone pellet therapy helps menopausal women over a ten-year period. It involved 78 women who reported significant improvements in all eleven categories of menopausal symptoms, with noticeable relief regardless of age or testosterone levels. Most participants experienced side effects like acne and facial hair, but these were manageable with adjustments to treatment. Who this helps: Menopausal women seeking relief from their symptoms.

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This research paper focuses on improving how doctors detect and monitor brain metastases, which are cancer cells that have spread to the brain from other parts of the body. The study found that advanced imaging methods, like specialized MRI techniques and PET scans using amino acid tracers, can accurately tell the difference between changes caused by treatment and actual tumor growth. These new techniques matter because they help ensure that patients receive the right treatment based on accurate information about their condition. Who this helps: This benefits patients with brain metastases and their doctors by improving diagnosis and treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how age affects the success of buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) in older adults. Researchers found that adults aged 50-59 were 27% less likely to stop treatment compared to those under 40 and were more than twice as likely to stay in the program for one and two years. This is important because it shows that older adults can benefit significantly from buprenorphine treatment, suggesting that age should not be a barrier to access. Who this helps: This helps older adults with opioid use disorder and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how doctors decide which stroke patients should receive a specific type of treatment called endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) when the basilar artery is blocked. Researchers found that using standard imaging methods (like basic CT scans) produced similar results as using advanced imaging techniques (like CT perfusion or MR scans) in terms of patient outcomes after 90 days. About 39% of patients selected with advanced imaging were functionally independent after treatment compared to 35% of those selected with conventional imaging, showing no significant difference in effectiveness. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients by confirming that standard imaging can effectively guide treatment decisions for basilar artery occlusion strokes.

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This study looked at how well different countries coordinated their humanitarian efforts in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Researchers gathered data from five countries: Nigeria, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Colombia, and the Central African Republic, and found that Nigeria had the best coordination (39-89% satisfaction), while Yemen had the lowest (24-78%). This matters because improved coordination leads to better outcomes for communities in need, especially when funding for humanitarian efforts is shrinking. Who this helps: This helps humanitarian organizations and the communities they serve by improving the effectiveness of their responses in crisis situations.

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This study looked at how blocking two proteins, sclerostin and NOTUM, can help build stronger bones in mice. The researchers found that when both proteins were inhibited, there was a significant improvement in bone density, especially in the outer bone layer (cortical bone), compared to just blocking sclerostin alone. This is important because it could lead to more effective treatments for osteoporosis, which affects many people by making their bones weak and fragile. Who this helps: Patients with osteoporosis.

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This study looked at how inflammation affects brain function in older mice and found that using ketone bodies can help protect against memory and attention problems caused by this inflammation. Specifically, the researchers discovered that inflammation led to low blood sugar and changes in how the brain used energy. However, ketone treatments helped restore normal brain energy function and reduced symptoms associated with confusion and cognitive issues. Who this helps: This benefits older patients who are at risk of delirium due to inflammation.

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This research examined how drivers behave at different types of alternative intersections, like the Median U-Turn (MUT) and Reduced Conflict Intersection (RCI), using a driving simulator. It found that certain intersection designs, especially the MUT, can lead to more risky driving actions, with the highest likelihood of mistakes happening during side street left turns. Clear traffic signs and markings are crucial for helping drivers navigate these new intersection types safely. Who this helps: This helps drivers and traffic planners understand how to make roads safer for everyone.

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This study explored how Community Paramedics can help with out-of-hours care in Ireland’s general practice system, where there are staffing challenges. Researchers conducted interviews and identified four key areas for improvement: managing the workforce, enhancing teamwork in healthcare, planning for future care needs, and ensuring safety in care practices. They found that properly integrating Community Paramedics can lead to more efficient care, potentially reducing emergency room visits and allowing GPs to see more patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need care outside regular hours and doctors who want to provide better service.

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This study looked at how problems with brain energy use might lead to delirium, a condition that causes confusion, poor attention, and cognitive issues. Researchers found that variations in blood sugar levels, both high and low, can be linked to delirium, with suggested changes in how blood flows in the brain contributing to the issue. Understanding how to support brain energy use could help prevent delirium, which is particularly important in hospital settings. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of delirium, especially those in hospitals or with acute illnesses.

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This study looked at how inflammation and specific markers in the blood relate to the progression of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) over 18 months in 333 people. The researchers found that two specific markers, p-tau217 and GFAP, were linked to faster declines in cognitive function; for example, those with higher p-tau217 showed an increase in decline by about 2.82 points on a key cognitive test each year. Importantly, episodes of delirium were also tied to quicker decline, suggesting that these factors are more influential in AD progression than general systemic inflammation. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers by identifying important markers that could guide treatment and care strategies.

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This study looked at the experiences of long-term cancer survivors in New Zealand and how health practitioners impact their care. Researchers interviewed 81 survivors, both Māori and non-Māori, who had lived with cancer for 4 to 37 years. They found that doctors often act as gatekeepers, brokers, and enforcers, affecting how patients access information and treatment; some practices may unintentionally marginalize those seeking alternative care options. Improving the healthcare system's approach could lead to better support for survivors, especially in detecting cancer earlier and catering to individual patient needs. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer survivors and their healthcare providers.

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This research focuses on the definition of "R1" in rectal cancer surgery, which usually means that cancer is found close to the edge of the tissue removed. The study finds that the importance of this 1 mm rule changes depending on the situation: for example, certain types of tumors near the margin in advanced cases may not represent a higher risk for patients. These findings suggest that using a one-size-fits-all rule doesn't accurately reflect the realities of different cancer cases, which could lead to unnecessary treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients with rectal cancer by providing more personalized and accurate assessments of their surgical outcomes.

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This study looked at how framing the causes of depression affects people's beliefs about it. Researchers found that when depression was explained as a problem with inner functioning (dysfunctional), people felt more stigma and less hope for recovery, but thought medication would be more helpful. In contrast, when it was framed as a result of something that serves a purpose (functional), stigma was lower, and there was more hope, suggesting that how we talk about depression can significantly impact attitudes towards it. Who this helps: This benefits patients and their families, helping them understand depression better and encouraging a more hopeful outlook on recovery.

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This study looked at the physical abilities of Canadian children newly diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) over time. Researchers tracked nearly 1,000 children and found that while most experienced improvement in their physical function within the first year, about 1 in 3 continued to have mild issues. Children with more severe initial disabilities tended to have a longer recovery time, averaging 36 weeks to reach full function. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing insights into recovery expectations and identifying children who may need ongoing support.

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This study focused on a new method for performing surgery on thoracic disc herniations, which can cause serious health issues. Researchers examined 108 patients and found that using a combination of advanced imaging and techniques led to significant improvements in patients' strength and function, with the average health score increasing from about 3.8 to 4.5 after surgery. Importantly, 61% of patients saw at least one grade of improvement, and the rate of serious complications that required further surgery was only 9.3%. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from thoracic disc herniations, particularly those with large or calcified herniations.

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This study focused on creating a specific health measurement tool for thyroid cancer survivors to better understand their quality of life. Researchers developed the Thyroid Cancer Quality of Life Index (TCQOLI) and tested it with over 200 patients, confirming that it accurately reflects their experiences. This tool helps improve health care decisions and resource planning for thyroid cancer, leading to better support and care for patients. Who this helps: Patients with thyroid cancer.

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This study looked at how the type of embryonic formation of blood vessels affects treatment outcomes for patients with basilar apex aneurysms, which are bulges in blood vessels at the base of the brain. Researchers analyzed data from 151 patients and found that those with a specific type called "asymmetric fusion" had the lowest success rate in fully closing the aneurysm a year after treatment (40.7%), compared to 72.9% success in those with "cranial fusion." Understanding these differences is important because it can guide doctors in predicting treatment success based on a patient's unique blood vessel structure. Who this helps: Patients with basilar apex aneurysms and their doctors.

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This study examined how to improve the quality of care for people with opioid use disorder in New York State, particularly focusing on the needs of Black and Latinx communities who are heavily affected by overdose deaths. Researchers are testing a new support program in 35 clinics, which includes coaching on using data to enhance treatment; this will be compared with standard practice in other clinics. The goal is to make treatments more effective and tailored to patients, ultimately leading to fewer emergency visits and hospitalizations related to substance use. Who this helps: This helps patients with opioid use disorder and the medical professionals treating them.

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This study looked at how a special MRI technology using hyperpolarized [1-C]pyruvate helps measure energy use in the human brain. Researchers found that while [1-C]pyruvate levels were linked to blood volume, the by-products [1-C]lactate and bicarbonate were more related to factors like blood flow and glucose use, indicating that lactate production shows overall brain energy use instead of just sugar processing. This matters because it helps clarify how the brain’s metabolism works, which can lead to better understanding and treatment of brain disorders. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers studying brain function and metabolism, and ultimately benefits patients with neurological conditions.

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This study looked at how climate change and poor land management have led to an increase in devastating wildfires over the past 44 years. Researchers found that from 1980 to 2023, the most harmful wildfires were mostly in the Mediterranean and temperate conifer regions, with a notable rise in economic damages starting in 2015—43% of the 200 most damaging wildfires happened in just the last decade. This is important because as climate conditions worsen, these wildfires threaten not only ecosystems but also the safety and economy of communities. Who this helps: This helps communities at risk from wildfires and policymakers working on fire management and climate adaptation.

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This research studied the sweetpotato whitefly, a pest that causes significant economic damage, focusing on how a specific protein called Dnmt1 impacts early embryo development. The researchers found that when Dnmt1 levels were reduced, fewer eggs were laid and those eggs were less likely to survive, but the ratio of male to female adults remained unchanged. Understanding how Dnmt1 affects whitefly development is important because it could lead to new ways to control this pest more effectively. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural producers dealing with whitefly infestations.

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This study looked at what skills healthcare professionals need to effectively care for patients struggling with obesity. The researchers analyzed 22 studies and found eleven main areas of competency, with the most common ones focusing on assessing and managing obesity. These findings highlight the importance of thorough training for healthcare professionals to improve obesity care. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare professionals and their patients seeking better obesity management.

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This research paper discusses how emergency medical services (EMS) can better support survivors of sexual assault. It emphasizes the importance of treating these individuals with care and dignity, recommending practices like asking for permission before exams and transporting them to facilities equipped to help them. The findings highlight the need for proper training and awareness among EMS providers regarding trauma-informed care and the specific needs of different survivor groups, such as children, the elderly, and the LGBTQ community. Who this helps: This benefits patients who are survivors of sexual assault, ensuring they receive compassionate and appropriate medical care.

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This study looked at how to monitor choline, a chemical related to brain activity, in mice to better understand its role in brain health. Researchers developed a small sensor that successfully tracked changes in choline levels while the mice moved around freely. They found that injecting choline increased sensor readings in the hippocampus, while a drug called donepezil reduced readings, showing that they could effectively measure brain activity and its fluctuations throughout the day. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying brain diseases and conditions linked to cholinergic neurotransmission.

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This study looked at a protein called LHFPL5 in the cells of the inner ear that are important for hearing. Researchers found that mice with a defective version of this protein had significant hearing problems because their hair cells couldn’t respond properly to sound vibrations. Specifically, the channels that allow for sound signal processing in these cells weren’t fully activated, which is crucial for hearing. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with hearing loss, particularly those with genetic causes of deafness.

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This study looked at the experiences and beliefs of Army flight paramedics about their training and readiness to perform medical care during emergencies. It found that these paramedics felt less confident in their ability to respond to urgent situations on short notice, with confidence dropping from 89% in 2014 to just 70% now. They also reported needing significant changes in their current training program to better prepare them, citing interference from other duties as a major barrier. Who this helps: This research benefits Army flight paramedics by highlighting necessary improvements in their training and support.

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This study looked at how telemedicine can help people with dementia and their caregivers. It found that remote care methods improved mental health (like reducing depression and anxiety) in 65% of cases and enhanced satisfaction and quality of life for both patients and caregivers in 63% of cases. The findings show that telemedicine can effectively reduce feelings of loneliness and improve social connections, making it a valuable tool for dementia care. Who this helps: Patients with dementia and their caregivers benefit from these findings.

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This study looked at how well semaglutide, a medication for weight loss, works for veterans with obesity at a Veterans Affairs clinic. After 12 months of treatment, patients lost an average of 11.5 kg (about 25.4 pounds), which is a 10% drop in their body weight. Additionally, many patients saw improvements in health markers, with 74% losing at least 5% of their weight and reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Who this helps: This benefits veterans struggling with obesity and related health issues.

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This study looked at how an experimental treatment called senolytics, which clears out aging cells in the bones of mice, affects their skeleton's ability to respond to physical stress, like loading. When young mice (6 months old) were treated, they showed a doubling in bone growth after mechanical loading. In older mice (22 months), the treatment increased their bone formation significantly in one of the tests, indicating that senolytics can help improve bone response even as the animals age. Who this helps: This research benefits older patients at risk for bone health issues.

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This study focused on how to improve the nutrition of children with heart failure, which affects 0.9 to 3 out of every 100,000 kids. Researchers found that many children with heart failure face malnutrition due to a combination of not eating enough, poor nutrient absorption, and changes in how their bodies process food. They highlighted the importance of a team approach to evaluate each child's nutritional needs and emphasized that adding specific micronutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and iron can help manage heart failure more effectively. Who this helps: This benefits children with heart failure and their families, as well as the medical teams caring for them.

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This study looked at how different factors, like age, gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, affect medical students' success in their education and training. It reviewed 95 studies involving over 776,000 medical students and trainee doctors and found that factors like gender and ethnicity impact attainment differently, with underrepresented ethnic groups generally achieving less. This is important because understanding these disparities can help create fairer medical education systems and support for all students. Who this helps: This helps medical students and training programs aiming for fairness in medical education.

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This study looked at using samples of rectal mucus to find early signs of colorectal cancer (CRC) and adenomatous polyps, which are growths that can lead to cancer. The researchers found that this method is effective and could outperform current methods (like colonoscopy) in some cases, as it identifies specific genetic changes and shifts in gut bacteria that are linked to cancer. This is important because it offers a less invasive way to detect serious conditions early, which could lead to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for colorectal cancer, especially those who may find traditional screening methods difficult or uncomfortable.

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This study focused on creating a health communication campaign in Austin, Texas, to reduce fentanyl overdose deaths, which have skyrocketed since 2015. The campaign, titled "In Austin, We Keep Each Other Safe," aimed to provide helpful information to people who use drugs, encouraging safer practices. The research showed that harm reduction strategies are effective in delivering practical, stigma-free information to help users make better choices about their substance use. Who this helps: This benefits people who use drugs and the broader community by reducing overdose risks.

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This research study focused on older adults who receive home care and are at risk of losing muscle strength, known as sarcopenia. The researchers compared the effects of a daily whey protein supplement plus an online strength training program to just the online training alone over 12 weeks. They found that combining the protein supplement with resistance training could significantly improve physical function and nutritional status in these individuals, making it a potential key strategy for supporting older adults living at home. Who this helps: This helps older adults receiving home care who are at risk of sarcopenia.

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This study looked at how often different wild carnivores, specifically dogs and cats (canids and felids), use the same paths in their habitats. The researchers analyzed the movement patterns of 1,239 carnivores across 16 species of dogs and 18 species of cats from around the world. They found that canids used these paths 15% more densely than felids overall, and up to 33% more in shared habitats, indicating that dogs tend to stick to certain routes more than cats do. Understanding these movement patterns is important because they can affect how animals interact with each other and their environment, which has implications for managing human-wildlife interactions and ecosystem health. Who this helps: This helps wildlife managers and conservationists.

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This study looked at the mental health of surgeons, finding that nearly 1 in 7 has thought about suicide in the past year. It discovered that surgeons who feel more fulfilled at work, have higher self-worth, and are more resilient are less likely to experience suicidal thoughts. Conversely, feeling lonely increases the likelihood of these thoughts. Improving workplace satisfaction and reducing loneliness could help lower suicide risks in surgeons. Who this helps: This helps surgeons and medical professionals by highlighting the importance of mental well-being in their field.