DAVID CHIA-ONT KHAN, MD

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This study looked at how many elderly patients with Alzheimer's dementia in the U.S. die from aspiration pneumonia, a serious lung infection caused by inhaling food or liquid. From 1999 to 2020, there were 335,458 deaths due to both conditions, with death rates increasing over time, especially among men and non-Hispanic Whites. These findings highlight the urgent need for better healthcare strategies to protect older adults, particularly those in vulnerable groups. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, as well as healthcare providers working to improve patient care.

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This study investigated new materials called topological tellurides to improve rechargeable batteries, focusing on how they can enhance battery performance. The researchers found that these materials allow lithium ions to move quickly and bind strongly, achieving impressive capacities of up to 1600 mAh per gram for lithium and 1350 mAh per gram for sodium, while also reducing issues that typically arise in batteries, like the polysulfide shuttle effect. This advancement is important because it could lead to more efficient and longer-lasting batteries for various applications. Who this helps: This benefits battery manufacturers and consumers looking for better energy storage solutions.

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This research looked at a 12-year-old boy with a type of cancer called Ewing sarcoma who was checked for treatment results using a special imaging technique called FDG PET/CT. After his chemotherapy, the images showed that the areas affected by cancer had improved, but they also discovered that the boy's testicles were moved to a different area of his body to protect them before he received pelvic radiation. This finding is important because it helps doctors identify normal changes in the body after surgery rather than confusing them with signs of cancer. Who this helps: This helps doctors treating young patients with cancer who need to protect their fertility.

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This study focused on improving inverted perovskite solar cells, which are promising for future solar technology. Researchers tested two chemical treatments that helped create better surfaces for solar cells, resulting in a significant boost in performance with efficiency reaching about 25% and improved stability over time. This is important because more efficient and durable solar cells can lead to better renewable energy solutions. Who this helps: This helps solar cell manufacturers and developers working on next-generation energy solutions.

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This study looked at how mechanical forces affect the creation and breakdown of stalled protein chains during the process of protein synthesis in yeast. Researchers found that these forces help determine the type of amino acid tails added to the stalled chains, which is crucial for their eventual release and degradation. Specifically, when certain conditions are met, the chains switch from a state that is less effective at breaking down (using a mix of specific amino acids) to a more efficient breakdown process (using only one type of amino acid), preventing harmful buildup in the cell. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and scientists working on diseases related to protein misfolding and accumulation.

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This study looked at a device that produces specific types of light particles (photons) using strontium ions, which can be used in advanced computing and networking. Researchers successfully generated single photons from one to six strontium ions, achieving very short light pulses of just 150 picoseconds. This technology is important because it could improve how information is processed and shared in future quantum computers. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers in quantum computing and networking.

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This research paper examines how microplastics, small pieces of plastic waste, are affecting land and ecosystems in India, especially those near landfills. It found that these microplastics are commonly made from materials like polyethylene and polypropylene, and their spread can change with the seasons and due to other environmental factors. This is important because it highlights the ongoing threat of microplastics to the soil, water, and food we eat, which can ultimately affect human health. Who this helps: This helps patients, environmentalists, and policymakers.

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This study focused on a new compound called Scoparioate A, extracted from a specific plant. The researchers found that Scoparioate A effectively neutralized more than 80% of harmful free radicals at a dose of 70 micrograms per milliliter. This discovery is significant because it highlights the potential of Scoparioate A as a strong antioxidant, which may help in the prevention of diseases linked to oxidative stress. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for natural treatments to reduce oxidative damage in their bodies.

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This study looked at how the plant Selenicereus undatus (a type of cactus) reacts to different environmental stresses like drought, salty soil, and heavy metals, and how melatonin can help it cope. The researchers found that these stresses increased the activity of certain protective proteins called peroxidases (PODs) and other stress indicators in the plant, but melatonin helped to reduce these stress levels and promote growth. They identified 75 specific POD genes in the cactus's genome, with some showing significant increases in activity when the plant faced combined stresses. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and researchers working to improve the growth and resilience of Selenicereus undatus in challenging conditions.

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This study looked at the activity of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), in the U.S. from July 2024 to June 2025. It found that COVID-19 led to around 290,000 to 450,000 hospitalizations and 34,000 to 53,000 deaths, with the highest hospitalization rates among older adults (75 and older) and infants (under 6 months). RSV caused an estimated 190,000 to 350,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 to 23,000 deaths, mostly affecting young infants and the elderly. Vaccination for these viruses is crucial to help reduce severe illness. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially infants and older adults, who are most at risk from these respiratory viruses.

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This research studied how COVID-19 deaths and emergency department visits varied across different counties in the U.S. from 2020 to 2025. Using a special statistical method, the researchers were able to provide more accurate weekly estimates of these rates, despite issues with data delays and privacy concerns. Their findings showed significant differences in COVID-19 impacts between counties, which is important for shaping effective public health responses and strategies. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers.

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This study looked at a specific protein called ∆40p53 and how it affects another molecule, miR-4671-5p, and a gene called SGSH in cancer. Researchers found that high levels of ∆40p53 reduced the amount of miR-4671-5p, which in turn lowered SGSH levels. This disruption led to problems in cell division, which can negatively impact cancer prognosis. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by improving our understanding of how certain proteins can influence cancer growth.

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This study focused on a protein called SIRT2 and its role in controlling protein production in the body, particularly in relation to aging-related diseases. The researchers found that when SIRT2 was less active, protein production increased significantly, which was linked to heart problems in mice. Specifically, SIRT2-deficient mice showed more protein synthesis in their hearts, possibly leading to heart enlargement, while mice with more SIRT2 had reduced protein synthesis. Who this helps: Patients at risk of heart diseases and other conditions related to aging.

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This study looked at two different methods for taking patients off external ventricular drains (EVDs) after a type of brain bleed called aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Researchers found that quickly reducing the use of EVDs did not lead to more infections or a greater need for another type of drain, called a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS). However, it did cut down the average hospital stay by about 4 days, from 29.5 days to 25.6 days. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from brain bleeds by potentially shortening their hospital stays.

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This study looked at how blood cultures, which help diagnose infections, are processed in hospitals across England and Scotland. Researchers found that while 97% of labs had rapid identification methods that could detect infections within 8 hours, only 26% offered rapid tests to determine which antibiotics would work against the infection, and many labs did not operate 24 hours a day. This variability in services can delay treatment, which is crucial for patients with bloodstream infections. Who this helps: Patients with bloodstream infections benefit from faster and more reliable testing.

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This study looked at the bacteria present in the respiratory and blood samples of children in The Gambia suffering from severe pneumonia. Researchers found that two major bacterial groups, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, were the most common in multiple body sites, and they identified significant similarities between the bacteria found in blood and respiratory samples ranging from 34% to 58%. The findings are important because they improve our understanding of the specific bacteria involved in pneumonia and their resistance to antibiotics, which can help inform better treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with pneumonia and their doctors by providing insights into effective treatments.

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This study looked at the impact of COVID-19 in the U.S. from October 2022 to September 2024, estimating millions of illnesses, medical visits, and deaths. From 2022 to 2023, there were about 43.6 million COVID-related illnesses and 101,300 deaths, while in 2023 to 2024, those numbers decreased to around 33 million illnesses and 100,800 deaths. Notably, seniors aged 65 and older were heavily affected, accounting for nearly 82% of deaths despite making up only 17.7% of the population, highlighting the need for continued focus on prevention. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly older adults, by emphasizing the importance of ongoing prevention strategies.

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This research focused on the yellow pitaya fruit, also known as Selenicereus megalanthus, by creating a detailed genetic map of its genome. The study found that yellow pitaya has a genome size of 1.79 billion base pairs and contains about 27,246 genes inherited from its ancestors. These findings reveal how differences in the genetic structure between yellow and red pitaya can affect their traits, which is important for improving breeding techniques. Who this helps: This helps farmers and breeders working to develop better pitaya varieties.

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This study looked at how effective FDG PET/CT scans are for diagnosing and tracking rhinocerebral mucormycosis, a severe fungal infection, compared to traditional imaging methods. Researchers analyzed 47 adults and found that PET/CT identified active disease in 35 patients, including 6 that standard MRI/CT missed. The PET/CT scans also helped track how well treatments were working, guiding further medical and surgical care for many patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with rhinocerebral mucormycosis and their doctors by providing better tools for early detection and treatment monitoring.

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This research paper looks at new ways to manage food waste using specially engineered microbes. The findings show that these advanced microbial systems not only break down food waste more efficiently than traditional methods but also produce useful products like bioenergy and bioplastics. For example, these engineered microbes can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and recover valuable nutrients from food waste, making them a more sustainable option for managing waste and promoting a circular economy. Who this helps: This benefits environmentalists, waste management professionals, and industries looking to minimize food waste.

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This study looked at how many older adults in the U.S. died from heart-related issues linked to amyloidosis between 1999 and 2020. It found that deaths increased from 1.71 per 100,000 people in 1999 to 4.23 in 2020, with a sharp rise after 2018, particularly affecting older Black adults, who had nearly double the mortality rate compared to other groups. These findings highlight important gaps in healthcare access and diagnosis, showing the need for better targeted health programs. Who this helps: This helps patients with amyloidosis and healthcare providers aiming to improve treatment and diagnosis.

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This study looked at two blood markers, platelet factor 4 (PF4) and stromal cell-derived factor (SDF), in patients who had a type of brain bleed called aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). The researchers found that for every 1 ng/mL increase in PF4, the chance of developing cerebral vasospasm (a dangerous narrowing of blood vessels) increased by 38%. Additionally, higher levels of SDF were linked to a later time of death among patients who did not survive. This research matters because these biomarkers can help doctors quickly identify patients at higher risk for serious complications and adjust their treatments accordingly. Who this helps: This helps patients with aSAH and their doctors in managing care more effectively.

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This study looked at two different types of materials used on perovskite solar cells to see which one performs better. Researchers compared two chemicals, finding that one (4F-BA) created a more efficient layer that led to solar cells achieving over 25% efficiency and lasting longer, while the other (4TF-BA) achieved 24% efficiency but didn’t create the same quality layer. Understanding which material works better helps improve solar cell technology, making renewable energy more effective and reliable. Who this helps: This helps solar energy manufacturers and consumers looking for more efficient renewable energy solutions.

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This study focused on a 52-year-old man with a rare type of kidney cancer called metastatic renal osteosarcoma. After receiving six cycles of chemotherapy, his scans showed no signs of cancer, but six months later, new tumors were found in his kidney area and liver. This research shows that using a special imaging technique called FDG PET-CT can be effective for tracking this type of cancer's response to treatment and detecting recurrences. Who this helps: This helps doctors treating kidney cancer patients by providing better methods for monitoring disease progress.

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This study looked at a rare cancer called angiosarcoma, which affects blood vessels and makes up only 1% of soft-tissue cancers. The research focused on a 55-year-old man with angiosarcoma in his cheek, and imaging showed that the cancer had spread to his liver and spleen. This emphasizes how important certain imaging tests, like FDG PET/CT scans, are for correctly assessing and managing such rare and aggressive cancers. Who this helps: This benefits patients with angiosarcoma and their doctors.

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This study created a large dataset called Vector-QM24 (VQM24) which includes information about 836,000 different molecules made up of up to five heavier atoms like carbon and nitrogen. The researchers identified a variety of stable molecule structures and calculated their energy and other important properties. Importantly, they found that existing machine learning models struggled to accurately predict the energy of these molecules, making VQM24 a valuable resource for improving future models. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists developing new materials and drugs.

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This study looked at a type of bacteria called Bacillus sp. BRTN, found in the mud volcano of Baratang in India. Researchers discovered that this strain can tolerate high levels of salt and has unique proteins important for surviving tough conditions, which might be used to create new antibiotics. They identified specific proteins that could be targeted to develop new treatments, with one protein, SufD, showing the most promise for future drug development. Who this helps: This helps patients by paving the way for new antibiotic treatments.

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This study looked at the aging processes in tissue from brain aneurysms, comparing it to healthy blood vessels. Researchers found that the aneurysm tissue had significantly shorter telomeres, which are indicators of cellular aging, along with increased signs of inflammation and oxidative stress. This matters because understanding these changes can help develop better treatments and prevention strategies for aneurysms, which can lead to life-threatening conditions if they rupture. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for brain aneurysms and their doctors.

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This study focused on a new method for modeling chemical and materials systems using machine learning, which traditionally requires a lot of data and computing power. The researchers developed a technique called generalized convolutional many-body distribution functionals (cMBDF) that is more efficient, allowing for simpler and faster processing. They found that this new method can be up to 100 times smaller than other approaches and can improve the accuracy of predicting important chemical properties, significantly reducing training time from 23 hours to just 8 minutes, which also lessens the environmental impact. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and industries working on chemical and materials science, allowing them to develop new materials more quickly and sustainably.

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This study looked at how a molecule called ASCC3 interacts with another molecule involved in fragile X syndrome (FXS), which causes intellectual disabilities and autism. Researchers found that increasing the levels of ASCC3 in mice with FXS improved their behavior and brain function, leading to better movement, cognitive abilities, and social interactions after one month of treatment. This is important because it shows that targeting the mechanism behind protein production in the brain could lead to new treatments for FXS. Who this helps: This helps patients with fragile X syndrome and their families.

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This study looked at how well salivary glands work using a technique called dynamic salivary gland scintigraphy (dSGS). Researchers tested 29 healthy adults and found that the parotid glands (located near the cheeks) had higher function than submandibular glands (under the jaw), with over 50% excretion in parotid glands compared to around 32% in submandibular ones. Establishing these normal values is important for diagnosing conditions related to salivary gland function in patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients dealing with salivary gland disorders.

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This study examined how different imaging techniques, like ultrasounds and MRIs, help doctors diagnose and treat kidney problems in children. It found that using the right imaging can lead to better and more precise surgical treatments for conditions such as blockages and kidney defects. This is important because accurate imaging helps ensure that children receive the appropriate care they need for their kidney issues. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their doctors.

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This study looked at the effects of an antibiotic called Gramicidin A on two types of leukemia: acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Researchers found that Gramicidin A effectively slows down the growth of cancer cells in APL and CML by reducing certain gene activities, with results showing significant decreases (p-values < 0.05 and < 0.0001). Importantly, it didn't harm red blood cells, suggesting it could be a safe treatment option for these leukemias. Who this helps: This helps patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia.

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This study looks at a new method, called nlane-SCAN, for accurately predicting the energies of atoms and chemical reactions. Researchers found that nlane-SCAN performs better than traditional methods by providing precise predictions for various chemical interactions, especially for systems that exhibit strong correlations, without needing extra adjustments. This advancement is important because it improves our understanding of chemical bonding and reactions, which can enhance research and applications in chemistry and materials science. Who this helps: This benefits chemists and researchers working in fields related to molecular interactions and chemistry.

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This study looked at the role of a group of proteins called TAM kinases in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a type of blood cancer. Researchers found that two specific TAM kinases, TYRO3 and MER, were significantly more active in drug-resistant leukemia cells compared to drug-sensitive ones—25 times and 7 times more, respectively. By targeting these kinases with specific drugs, they were able to slow down the growth of both types of leukemia cells and increase cancer cell death, showing promise for improving treatment options for patients with CML. Who this helps: Patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, especially those who have developed resistance to current treatments.

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This study introduces a new method called MidSurfer for creating mid-surfaces from 3D segmented data. The researchers found that MidSurfer produces smooth and accurate 3D models more effectively than older methods, making it easier to visualize complex structures. This is significant because accurate models are essential for applications in fields like medical imaging and engineering. Who this helps: This helps researchers and professionals in medical imaging and engineering.

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This study examined the connection between a chemical called PBDE-47, found in some environmental pollutants, and the risk of developing a serious brain condition known as an intracranial aneurysm (IA). Researchers analyzed data from nearly 456,000 people and identified 93 proteins in the blood related to IA risk; of these, 53 may protect against it while 40 are risk factors. They found that PBDE-47 likely increases IA risk through a specific protein pathway, which could help in creating early warning systems and treatments for this life-threatening condition. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of brain aneurysms and their doctors.

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This study looked at the levels of fluoride in urine and the presence of dental fluorosis in adolescents and young adults in the U.S. They found that about 74% of adolescents and 70% of young adults had some form of dental fluorosis, and higher fluoride levels were linked to a decrease in kidney function. Specifically, for every 1 mg/L increase in fluoride, kidney function decreased by about 5 mL/min, and dental fluorosis was associated with lower kidney filtration rates. Who this helps: This research is important for patients, particularly adolescents and young adults, as it highlights potential risks related to fluoride exposure.

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This study looked at a serious side effect caused by a cancer treatment called pembrolizumab in a 67-year-old man with advanced throat cancer. Shortly after starting the treatment, he developed a large pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, which is rare in these patients; this condition involved both lungs and required inserting chest tubes for relief. It is crucial for doctors to quickly investigate any new breathing problems in patients taking this treatment to ensure they receive the right care. Who this helps: This information is valuable for both patients undergoing treatment and the healthcare providers caring for them.

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This study looked at how specific genetic variants in regions of the PRKCH gene may influence cancer development, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer. Researchers found that a specific variant (rs14095) was strongly linked to a higher risk of HCC, especially among certain populations, while another variant did not show a significant connection to cancer risk. Understanding these genetic links can help in identifying individuals who are more susceptible to developing this type of cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for liver cancer and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the outcomes of two surgical options for young patients with osteosarcoma, a common bone cancer: limb salvage surgery (LSS) and amputation. Researchers found that after five years, 83.8% of patients who had LSS were alive, compared to only 62.5% of those who underwent amputation. Additionally, patients who had LSS reported better function and quality of life. This research highlights that limb salvage surgery can lead to better survival and quality of life without increasing complications, making it a preferred option for suitable patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with osteosarcoma and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at a specific type of gastrointestinal tumor called SDH deficient GIST in India from 2016 to 2022. Out of 120 GIST patients, nine had this condition, primarily affecting middle-aged women, with eight out of nine showing signs of metastasis and the liver being the most common site for spread. The study found that traditional treatments like imatinib did not work well, with only 60% of patients responding to another medication, sunitinib, highlighting the need for more effective treatment options for this specific tumor type. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating GIST patients and helps tailor treatment strategies for those with SDH deficient tumors.

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This study looked at how a substance called kisspeptin-10 affects obesity and diabetes in female mice that were fed a high-fat diet. Researchers found that kisspeptin-10 helped reduce body weight and blood sugar levels to those seen in mice on a normal diet, with mice treated with kisspeptin-10 also showing improved hormone levels and healthier gut cell structure after 21 days. This matters because it reveals a new potential role for kisspeptin in managing diet-related metabolic issues, which could lead to better treatments for obesity and diabetes. Who this helps: Patients struggling with obesity and diabetes.

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This study examined how immune cells behave in patients who experience aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), a serious type of brain bleeding. Researchers looked at blood samples from 75 aSAH patients and 20 healthy individuals and found that aSAH patients had fewer anti-inflammatory cells and more pro-inflammatory cells shortly after the bleeding. Specifically, these patients showed a drop in helpful immune cells from 6.3% to 3.0% and a rise in harmful T cells from 6.2% to 36.3%, which could predict serious complications like brain swelling. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating patients with aSAH by providing insights that could improve diagnosis and treatment strategies for complications.

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This study looked at skin conditions in 328 patients with diabetes to see how they related to liver issues and gastrointestinal problems. It found that about 69% of patients had skin changes, with the most common being dark patches and diabetic dermopathy, and those with skin issues were more likely to have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—42% of participants had NAFLD, and nearly 48% of those with skin changes also had it. Recognizing these skin signs can help doctors identify patients who may have other serious health problems early on. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes by improving their overall health management.

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This research focused on chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a type of blood cancer often driven by a specific genetic mutation. The study found that targeting a protein called Musashi-2 (MSI2) can reduce cell growth and improve the effectiveness of the standard treatment drug imatinib, both in cells that respond to the drug and those that are resistant. Notably, combining imatinib with MSI2 inhibition significantly decreased the survival of resistant cancer cells, which is important because it suggests a new way to tackle treatment-resistant forms of CML. Who this helps: This helps CML patients, especially those who do not respond to current therapies.

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This study looked at the genetic differences and drug resistance of bacteria causing cholera found in certain African countries between 2010 and 2024. Researchers found that 96% of the samples showed resistance to the antibiotic trimethoprim, and 83% were resistant to quinolones. These findings are important because they highlight the growing issue of antibiotic resistance in cholera bacteria, making it harder to treat infections and control outbreaks. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and healthcare providers working to manage cholera outbreaks.

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This study looked at 12 patients with a rare and difficult-to-diagnose type of heart tumor called primary cardiac sarcoma, which typically has a poor outlook for recovery. Researchers found that 66.7% of the patients presented with fluid around the heart, and half were misdiagnosed with other conditions. Among those treated with chemotherapy, 55.5% responded positively, and the average survival time for those who received treatment was 19.2 months, compared to 5.1 months for all patients in the study. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients dealing with primary cardiac sarcomas by improving understanding and treatment options for this rare tumor.

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This study looked at how well the gallbladder functions in healthy people by measuring the gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) after they ate a fatty meal. Researchers found that GBEF increased over time after eating, with average values of 36% after 30 minutes, 50% after 45 minutes, and 55% after 60 minutes. The important takeaway is that a GBEF of 20% or more at the 60-minute mark can be used as a standard to assess gallbladder health, which is useful for diagnosing gallbladder problems. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers assess gallbladder function in patients.