DR. DANIEL M. MORRISON, M.D.

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This study tested a new device that continuously measures both glucose and lactate levels in people with diabetes. It involved 16 adults, and the device showed a mean difference in readings of 14.5% from standard blood tests, which improved slightly from day 1 to day 4. This technology is important because it could provide more complete information for managing diabetes without requiring more devices for patients. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes who need better monitoring of their glucose and lactate levels.

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This study looked at how using a continuous ketone monitor (CKM) could help catch early signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in a patient with type 1 diabetes. The researchers found that the CKM alerted the patient to rising ketone levels, which reached over 3.1 mmol/L, prompting timely intervention and avoiding hospitalization. This is important because it shows that early detection can prevent serious complications and hospital stays for people with diabetes. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 1 diabetes who are at risk of DKA.

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This study looks at automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, which help manage diabetes, focusing on how effective they are not just at controlling blood sugar but also in other important areas like quality of life and possible long-term complications. It was found that while AID systems improve glucose levels, we also need to check how they affect overall health, device reliability, and even environmental impact. This matters because understanding these factors can lead to better diabetes management and improved patient experiences. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a specific type of protein build-up related to certain genetic disorders known as polyGln ataxias, which affect movement and coordination. Researchers found that abnormal protein aggregates called RAN proteins accumulate in the brains of patients with different types of spinocerebellar ataxias. In particular, they discovered that these proteins could worsen brain cell damage and inflammation, suggesting that targeting these aggregates might improve symptoms and brain health in affected individuals. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with spinocerebellar ataxias and their doctors by providing insights for potential treatments.

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This study focused on developing a system to tell the difference between real images and those created by an AI model called Stable Diffusion XL. The researchers built and tested a new computer program (a convolutional neural network) on a unique dataset of real and synthetic images. Their findings showed that the system could correctly identify synthetic images with an accuracy of up to 98.38%, which helps address concerns about fake images being used misleadingly. Who this helps: This benefits both patients and doctors by ensuring that they can trust the images used in medical settings and research.

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This study looked at how certain features of chromosomes at the ends, known as telomeres, interact with cellular structures in cancer cells that use a specific telomere maintenance method called the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The researchers found that specialized proteins (heterochromatin) help telomeres cluster together and form important structures called PML nuclear bodies, which are crucial for ALT cancer cells. The team discovered that when they attached a specific protein (HP1α) to telomeres, it could even trigger these structures in non-ALT cells, highlighting a key mechanism affecting cancer development. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, particularly those with ALT-positive tumors, by enhancing understanding of tumor behavior.

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This study looked at how often and how seriously a specific type of antibody, called anti-M, affects babies during pregnancy, especially focusing on women who identify as Asian compared to those who do not. Researchers found that severe cases of hemolytic disease in babies were more common in Asian mothers, with 6.5% facing severe issues, compared to only 0.6% in non-Asian mothers. This information is important because it helps healthcare providers better understand and manage the risks associated with anti-M antibodies in pregnancy, especially for Asian patients. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women, particularly those of Asian descent, and their healthcare providers.

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This study looks at whether giving children aged 18-36 months who are at high risk for gut problems (like those living with poor sanitation) extra amino acids can help improve their gut health. Researchers are testing this in six countries, focusing on changes in gut permeability and the children's ability to absorb nutrients over 28 days. If successful, this could help reduce stunting and promote better health in these vulnerable children. Who this helps: This benefits young children in low-resource settings who are at risk for malnutrition and gut-related health issues.

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This study focused on how cancer registries in Europe can better track the recurrence and progression of cancer. Experts from 14 countries created a standardized way to collect data on when cancer returns or worsens, agreeing on definitions and methods for doing so. They found that only 31% of registries collect this data for all types of cancer, highlighting a need for more resources to improve data collection, which is crucial for understanding the needs of cancer patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare organizations by improving the quality of cancer care and services.

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The PROSECCA study examines how to better predict the outcomes of prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy by analyzing existing healthcare data using artificial intelligence. Researchers are looking at the records of up to 15,000 patients who received radiotherapy in Scotland from 2010 to 2022 to find out why some patients have worse treatment outcomes or side effects. This research is important because it aims to tailor radiotherapy plans to reduce harmful side effects while improving the chances of a cure, especially for the nearly 80% of prostate cancer patients who survive for 10 years or more. Who this helps: This benefits prostate cancer patients and their doctors by allowing more personalized treatment plans.

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This study explored how machines can better understand and predict human thoughts and behaviors. Researchers found that using specific cognitive models can help machines analyze individual behaviors, leading to more personalized interactions. For example, when testing these models in a Minecraft scenario, they improved decision-making by predicting player behavior based on limited data. This advancement matters because it enhances the ability of artificial intelligence to effectively cooperate with humans in various tasks. Who this helps: This benefits both players and developers of AI systems.

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This study looked at how children's eyesight changed over five years after they had cataract surgery before turning two years old. It found that children who had surgery between one and seven months of age had a much larger change in their vision, with an average shift of 7.50 diopters, compared to 1.94 diopters for those who had surgery between seven and 24 months (a significant difference). Understanding these changes helps doctors make better decisions about the type of lens to implant in young children who need cataract surgery. Who this helps: This helps doctors and infants undergoing cataract surgery.

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This study looked at how different types of exercise—moderate, high-intensity, and resistance—affected blood sugar levels in teens with Type 1 diabetes using a special insulin pump. The researchers found that high-intensity exercise kept blood sugar in the target range for about 88% of the time, while moderate exercise was lower at 79%. The findings highlight the importance of setting specific blood sugar targets before and during exercise to help manage levels and reduce the risk of low blood sugar afterwards. Who this helps: This research benefits adolescents with Type 1 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can help older adults with diabetes, specifically those using insulin. The review of 17 studies found that CGM significantly reduces low blood sugar episodes, which is crucial for older patients whose diabetes management can often lead to dangerous drops in glucose levels. The findings suggest that using CGM can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for these individuals, making it an important tool in diabetes care. Who this helps: Older adults with diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This research focused on a young patient with a newly identified condition called ICHAD syndrome, which affects the immune system and leads to problems like anemia and skin issues. The study found that the patient had a specific genetic change that caused the immune system's regulatory functions to break down, leading to hyperactive immune responses. In tests, the patient's immune cells showed severe dysfunction, including overly active T cells and impaired natural killer cell functions. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with ICHAD syndrome and their doctors by providing insights that could lead to better treatments.

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The study focused on how to manage and follow up with patients in Canada who have low-risk thyroid cancer, which typically has a very low chance of returning. It was found that these patients have a recurrence risk of 5% or less and a mortality rate of less than 1% over 20 years. The findings suggest that many of these patients might not need intensive follow-up in specialized clinics and could be safely monitored by primary care doctors instead. Who this helps: This helps patients with low-risk thyroid cancer and their primary care providers.

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This study looked at how people in the U.S. changed their behavior regarding mask-wearing and social distancing during the first three waves of COVID-19. Researchers used advanced models to accurately predict these behaviors, achieving a very high accuracy rate of 93% for mask-wearing and 62% for social distancing. Understanding these patterns is important for public health officials to encourage protective behaviors during health crises. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers.

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This study looked at cancer risks in people who received kidney transplants in Scotland from 1997 to 2021. Out of 4,033 transplant recipients, 770 developed cancer, which is nearly four times higher than what would be expected in the general population. This is especially concerning for younger patients under 40, who have a cancer risk seven times higher than their peers. Who this helps: This research helps kidney transplant patients and their doctors by highlighting the need for better cancer monitoring and prevention strategies.

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This study explored how the way our bodies sense and respond to nutrients might change as we age and how these changes can affect our health. Researchers found that problems with nutrient sensing in older adults can lead to higher rates of illness and even death. Their work emphasizes the need to improve our understanding of nutrition's role in aging, to help people live healthier, longer lives. Who this helps: This helps older adults and healthcare providers focused on improving health in aging populations.

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This study looked at how ancestry affects the body's response to severe COVID-19 by measuring protein levels in blood samples from different groups. Researchers found that 62% of proteins were linked to severe COVID-19 in people of European ancestry, compared to 45% in those of African ancestry and only 22% in those of East Asian ancestry. Understanding these differences is important because it could help explain why some groups experience more severe illness and guide future treatments. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers in addressing health disparities among different ancestral groups.

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This study looked at how Canadian endocrinologists treat patients with thyroid issues, specifically those with hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels). The survey found that nearly 65% of endocrinologists are open to using a combination of two medications to help patients who still feel unwell on standard treatment. Despite this, many believe that persistent symptoms are often due to other health issues rather than the treatment itself. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with thyroid problems, particularly those struggling with ongoing symptoms.

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This study focused on improving trauma therapy for Black youth by adapting an existing treatment called trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) to better address their unique experiences with racial and interpersonal trauma. Researchers integrated themes of racial pride and support from the community into the therapy process, and found that this adapted approach (TF-CBT-RS) was practical, well-received, and led to reductions in trauma symptoms and better coping skills in early feedback. This matters because it could help bridge the gap in mental health services for Black youth and improve their treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps Black youth and their families as well as the mental health professionals working with them.

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This study looked at how the immune system reacts in the first few days after a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Researchers found significant changes in immune responses among 36 injured individuals compared to 36 uninjured people, including increased inflammation and higher white blood cell counts in 36% of the injured patients. These findings are important because they could help identify the severity of the injury and lead to new treatments that improve recovery after such injuries. Who this helps: This helps patients with spinal cord injuries and their doctors by providing insights for better care and treatment strategies.

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This study looked at how people in Arizona feel about drinking advanced purified water, which is treated to be safe for consumption. Out of nearly 480 respondents, only 36% currently drink tap water, but 42% are willing to try advanced purified water, indicating some openness to this new option. The findings highlight that people want more reassurance about water quality, such as independent testing results, to feel comfortable accepting this technology. Who this helps: This helps water utility companies and the communities they serve by improving trust and acceptance of purified water.

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Researchers studied how well people understand direct potable reuse (advanced water purification) in an Arizona city facing water shortages. They interviewed 22 residents and found that many felt confused about how their water is treated and wanted clearer information about water testing, regulation, and chemical safety. This is important because better understanding and communication can help communities accept and support the use of advanced water purification methods. Who this helps: This helps residents and local water utilities improve community trust and engagement with water reuse initiatives.

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This study looked at certain proteins related to diseases called spinocerebellar ataxias, which can cause problems with movement and coordination. Researchers found that these harmful proteins accumulate in the brains of affected individuals, leading to brain damage and cell dysfunction. They also discovered that an existing drug called metformin can reduce these toxic proteins, suggesting a potential pathway for treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with spinocerebellar ataxias by providing insights that could improve therapy options.

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This study focused on developing a large dataset of 2,539 images from cervical biopsy specimens to improve the diagnosis of cervical cancer. The researchers found that using this dataset, they could create a model that accurately predicts diagnoses, making it easier to quickly identify serious cases that need immediate treatment. This work is important because it can help streamline the diagnostic process and ensure patients receive timely care. Who this helps: Patients at risk for cervical cancer.

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This study looked at a new cancer drug called SLC-391 to see if it is safe and effective for patients with advanced solid tumors. Researchers found that 34% of patients experienced stable disease, meaning their cancer didn't get worse, for as long as 318 days while taking the drug. The medication was generally well-tolerated, with no serious side effects at a daily dose of 300 mg. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, especially those with advanced tumors.

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This study looked at how transfusion lab technologists in British Columbia manage the inventory of O negative blood, which is crucial but often in short supply, especially in rural areas. Researchers interviewed technologists and found that there are five key themes affecting their decision-making about blood inventory, highlighting significant challenges and best practices in managing these resources. Understanding these factors can help improve how blood is stored and used, ensuring that this vital resource is available when needed. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on blood transfusions, especially in emergency situations.

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This study compared health information about a condition called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) from Google search results and ChatGPT, an AI tool. The findings showed that Google pages were easier to read, with an average readability score of 10.7, while ChatGPT's responses scored higher in complexity at 13.9, making them harder to understand. This matters because easier-to-read information helps patients better grasp their health issues and treatment options. Who this helps: Patients looking for clear information about BPPV.

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This study examined how Canadian hospitals select and prepare red blood cells for intrauterine transfusions (IUT), which are given to fetuses in need of blood. Researchers surveyed nine hospitals and found that on average, 109 IUTs were performed each year. The results showed a lack of standard practices, such as varied procedures for processing blood and testing, highlighting the need for consistent national guidelines to improve safety and efficiency. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers who perform IUT, as well as expectant mothers and their unborn children who require these transfusions.

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Researchers looked at how well patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) followed their prescribed positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy over an eight-year period and whether this adherence impacted their health outcomes. They found that adherence rates were significantly higher in men and lower in patients with more severe daytime sleepiness, as well as those with more hospital visits, but overall, using the current criteria for adherence didn’t show a difference in health outcomes like hospitalizations or deaths. This matters because it highlights the need to reevaluate how we define and measure adherence to PAP therapy to better understand its real impact on health. Who this helps: This helps patients with obstructive sleep apnea and their doctors by encouraging improved guidelines for therapy adherence.

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The study focused on how the MiniMed™ 780G automated insulin delivery system can help people with type 1 diabetes exercise safely. Researchers found that when participants followed specific guidelines for exercising with the device, they achieved goals for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, including spending a significant amount of time within the target range. This matters because it shows that the MiniMed™ 780G can support better glucose control during physical activity, which is often a concern for those with type 1 diabetes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 1 diabetes who want to exercise safely.

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This paper looked at the growing issue of "double burden of malnutrition," where people experience both undernutrition and obesity at the same time, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Researchers found that while undernutrition rates have dropped in some areas, obesity is rising, particularly in cities, as many individuals who were undernourished as children become overweight adults. This matters because it complicates how health experts and policymakers must address both problems together to improve overall community health. Who this helps: This benefits patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to combat malnutrition in various forms.

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This study examined how exercise affects blood sugar levels in adults with type 1 diabetes by comparing glycemic risk during exercise days to sedentary days. Researchers found that the Glycemia Risk Index (GRI) was about 5% lower on exercise days, meaning exercise reduces the risk of extreme blood sugar levels. On days when participants exercised, they spent more time in the healthy glucose range and had fewer high glucose readings. Who this helps: This benefits adults with type 1 diabetes by showing that regular exercise can improve blood sugar management.

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This study focused on using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the reporting process for cervical biopsies, which are important for detecting cervical cancer early. The researchers created an AI tool that analyzes biopsy slides and helps pathologists identify cancerous cases. They found that their AI correctly identified 93.4% of malignant cases on test samples, significantly speeding up the reporting process to about 1.5 minutes per slide. Who this helps: This benefits patients by enabling faster and more accurate cancer diagnoses from biopsy results.

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This study examined blood samples from 318 hospitalized COVID-19 patients to understand how their immune responses developed over time. Researchers identified four groups of patients, including one with a high risk of death and another with a better chance of recovery. They found that patients with prolonged inflammation had delayed antibody responses, which likely hindered the body’s ability to fight the virus effectively. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating COVID-19 patients by improving understanding of immune responses.

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This study looked at cancer rates and deaths among adults with intellectual disabilities in Scotland from 2011 to 2019. It found that people with intellectual disabilities had higher rates of certain cancers, particularly colorectal (14.2%), lung (9.3%), and breast cancer in women (22.9%). Overall, they were found to be more likely to die from cancer, with a significantly higher death rate for colorectal cancer (1.54 times higher) and kidney cancer (2.01 times higher) compared to the general population, highlighting a need for better healthcare access and awareness for these individuals. Who this helps: This information is crucial for healthcare professionals and supports better care for patients with intellectual disabilities.

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This study examined female cancer survivors in Scotland who were diagnosed before age 18 to see how many went on to have a live birth by age 30. It found that only 37% of these women had a live birth compared to 58% of women from the general population. The rates were especially low among those who had lymphoid leukemia, with only 29% having a live birth. This matters because it highlights the long-term effects of childhood cancer on fertility, which can inform healthcare providers about the needs of young cancer survivors. Who this helps: This helps female cancer survivors and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new way to continuously monitor ketone levels in people with diabetes, which can help prevent a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Researchers found that using a small sensor under the skin can provide ketone readings every five minutes, offering more timely information than current methods which rely on blood or urine tests. This is important because early detection of high ketone levels can significantly improve management of diabetes and prevent dangerous complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 1 diabetes, especially those at higher risk for DKA.

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This study looked at whether a new ingredient called inulin-propionate ester (IPE) can prevent weight gain in younger adults at risk of obesity. Over 12 months, participants taking IPE gained about 1.22 kg on average, while those on the control gained only 0.07 kg, but there was no significant difference in weight gain between the two groups. This research is important because it explores ways to help young adults maintain a healthy weight, which could reduce the risk of future health problems. Who this helps: This helps young adults who are overweight and looking to prevent weight gain.

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This study focused on improving care for older adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by gathering their input on what they need for better management of their condition. Thirty-one older adults ranked different strategies, and six key approaches were identified, with the most important being the need to create a treatment plan together with their healthcare provider. These findings are significant because they can lead to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life for older adults living with IBD. Who this helps: This helps older adults with IBD and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how patients with early-stage solid tumors fared after being admitted to critical care. Researchers found that 25% of patients who had been in critical care developed metastatic disease within five years, compared to just 14% of those who were hospitalized but not in critical care. This suggests that those who experienced critical care may be at a higher risk for their cancer worsening. Who this helps: Doctors and healthcare providers caring for cancer patients.

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This study examined the immune system changes in 12 individuals who experienced traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCI) over their first year of recovery, comparing their blood samples to those of 23 healthy individuals. The researchers found nearly 1,000 genes that showed significant changes in the SCI patients, with signs of increased inflammation and altered immune cell profiles, particularly in the first six months after the injury. Understanding these changes is crucial because they can help develop better treatments to manage inflammation and infections, improving recovery outcomes for patients with SCI. Who this helps: Patients with spinal cord injuries and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on creating a new tool, called RFD-FN1, that can detect a specific protein linked to the harmful bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum, which is associated with issues like oral infections and cancer. Researchers found that RFD-FN1 works well in both human saliva and stool samples, which is important because it means they can create easier and more reliable tests for this bacteria. This discovery could lead to better diagnostic methods, helping identify various health problems sooner. Who this helps: Patients at risk for infections and cancers linked to Fusobacterium nucleatum.

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This research studied a new tool called QSP Designer, which helps scientists create complex models that simulate how drugs affect the body. The tool makes it easier to visualize biological processes and automatically generates code for various programming languages like MATLAB and R. This matters because it streamlines the modeling process, allowing researchers to work more efficiently and effectively. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists in pharmacology.

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This study looked at how radiotherapy affects the risk of dying from a stroke in patients with primary brain tumors. Among nearly 85,300 patients, those who received radiotherapy had a very low risk of stroke-related death—0.27% for radiotherapy alone and 0.24% for radiotherapy plus surgery—compared to 0.76% for those who received no treatment at all. This matters because it shows that radiotherapy does not increase stroke mortality and may help treat patients without raising their risk of dying from a stroke later on. Who this helps: Patients with primary brain tumors.

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This study looks at two ear canal birth defects: congenital aural atresia (CAA), where the ear canal is blocked or missing, and congenital aural stenosis (CAS), where the canal is narrow. For babies with CAA, early hearing tests are crucial, as children with both ears affected often need special hearing aids for speech development. The study found that bone conduction technology is essential for those with bilateral CAA, while its benefits for unilateral cases are still unclear. Who this helps: This research benefits infants with ear canal birth defects and their parents, as well as healthcare providers managing their care.

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This study looked at a 20-year-old South Asian man with new-onset diabetes and found that, despite some common indicators, he did not have type 1 diabetes. Genetic testing revealed a change in a gene related to diabetes, but it was unclear if it was significant. Ultimately, the patient responded better to metformin than the initially prescribed medication, suggesting he likely had type 2 diabetes instead. This research emphasizes the need for better diagnostic tools for younger patients of diverse ethnic backgrounds and highlights the importance of considering individual characteristics when interpreting genetic results. Who this helps: This helps young adults with diabetes, particularly those from South Asian backgrounds.