DR. HARLAN LEVINE, M.D.

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This study focused on patients with weak immune systems who suffered from long-lasting COVID-19 infections that didn't respond well to standard treatments. It found that using a combination of two antiviral medications helped 16 patients recover, with all of them testing negative for the virus about 13 days after starting treatment and showing no signs of relapse after a year. This is important because it provides a potential treatment option for vulnerable patients who struggle to shake off the virus, ensuring better health outcomes and reducing the risk of spreading the virus to others. Who this helps: Patients with weakened immune systems and their doctors.

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Researchers examined how nasal nitric oxide (NO) levels, a key test for detecting primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), change with the seasons. They found that median nasal NO levels were significantly lower in winter (123 nL/min) compared to summer (167 nL/min), and the number of low readings increased during winter, with 29.7% showing abnormal low values in January versus just 6% in August. This finding is important because it suggests that testing for PCD should ideally be done in summer to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures. Who this helps: This helps patients being screened for primary ciliary dyskinesia and their doctors.

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Researchers studied a new cholera vaccine called PanChol, which requires just one dose and aims to be safer and more effective than traditional vaccines that need multiple doses. In a trial with 57 healthy adults, 100% of those who received PanChol developed protective antibodies against cholera, while common side effects were mostly mild, including diarrhea in 39% of participants. This is important because it suggests that PanChol can provide quick protection against cholera, especially for those at high risk. Who this helps: This helps patients living in cholera-prone areas and children who may struggle with multiple vaccine doses.

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This study focused on how tiny changes in the structure of proteins can affect the ability of T-cell receptors (TCRs) to recognize and fight off diseases like autoimmune conditions or cancer. Researchers found that a single alteration in a specific protein sequence could significantly weaken the TCR's recognition ability, with specific changes noted at two key residues. Their new method accurately predicts how these changes impact the TCR's function, which is important for developing better treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with autoimmune diseases and cancer by guiding the design of more effective immunotherapies.

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This study looked at how air pollution affects health in Israel, focusing on premature deaths and years of life lost due to pollutants like fine particles, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone. It found that between 4,461 and 6,166 people die early each year from these pollutants, leading to a loss of 46,216 to 65,289 years of life each year. This is particularly concerning for males and older individuals, as they are affected more, though infants under one year also face a high impact. Overall, while Israel has fewer premature deaths and years of life lost compared to similar European countries, the findings stress the need for ongoing efforts to improve air quality to safeguard public health in Israel. Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials in Israel.

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This study looked at two treatments for swelling after cataract surgery: a dexamethasone implant plus a topical medication called ketorolac, and another combination of ketorolac with a different eye drop called prednisolone. Researchers found that both treatments were equally effective, with only 2% of patients in each group needing additional anti-inflammatory drops and no significant increase in eye pressure. This matters because the dexamethasone implant offers a dropless method that works just as well as the traditional drops, making recovery easier for patients. Who this helps: Patients recovering from cataract surgery.

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This study compared two treatments for preventing inflammation after cataract surgery: an implant containing dexamethasone and an injection of triamcinolone. Researchers found that while both treatments were effective, patients who received the triamcinolone injection experienced rebound iritis later, about 22 days after surgery, compared to 13 days for those with the dexamethasone implant. Overall, the difference in inflammation rates between the two methods was not significant, making them both similarly useful for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing cataract surgery by providing more options for managing post-operative inflammation.

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This study looked at how stores in Israel marketed IQOS, a heated tobacco product, before and after a new law banned displaying tobacco products. Researchers found that almost 91% of stores did not follow the display ban, but most adhered to rules about packaging and general advertisements. Despite the ban, internal advertisements for IQOS increased significantly from about 22% to nearly 42%, and more stores began offering a wider variety of IQOS products. Who this helps: This research helps policymakers and health advocates working to regulate tobacco marketing.

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This study looked at how the news media in Israel covered IQOS, a popular heated tobacco product, and how it differed across three groups: Arab, Ultra-orthodox Jews, and the general public. The researchers found that 100% of articles aimed at Arab readers and 75% aimed at Ultra-orthodox Jews framed PMI (the company behind IQOS) positively, compared to only 52% for the general public. This is important because it shows that minority groups are receiving a more favorable view of a product that can harm health, making media monitoring and regulation necessary to protect these communities. Who this helps: This helps patients and the public by identifying potential risks from misleading media coverage.

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This study looked at how adults in the US and Israel understand the advertising messages for IQOS, a heated tobacco product that the FDA says is less harmful than regular cigarettes. Researchers found that many people believed that switching completely to IQOS could reduce health risks, but they were often confused about the meaning behind terms like "reduced exposure" and "reduced risk." Importantly, half of the participants thought that mentioning scientific studies and FDA approval made the claims more trustworthy, while others felt unsure about these claims, suggesting a need for clearer information. Who this helps: This helps consumers and health regulators by highlighting the need for clear communication about tobacco products.

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This study looked at a partnership between local community members and public health students in an ultra-Orthodox neighborhood in Jerusalem to improve health programs. Over three years, the project identified local health needs and resources, such as the community center and swimming pool, while uncovering barriers to healthy living like low health literacy and time constraints. As a result, students created programs focused on better nutrition and physical activity for families, which helped strengthen connections between various health services in the area. Who this helps: This benefits residents of the neighborhood, particularly families and children.

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This study looked at how long children with fever had been sick before coming to the hospital and how that affected the accuracy of blood tests in diagnosing pneumonia. Out of 3,346 children screened, 509 were included, and 363 had pneumonia confirmed by an X-ray. The findings showed that on day 2 of fever, high white blood cell counts and high neutrophil levels were good indicators of pneumonia, while a certain ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes was most effective on days 2-5, peaking on day 4. These results help improve how doctors diagnose pneumonia in children by considering how long they have been sick. Who this helps: This helps doctors make better diagnoses for children with pneumonia.

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This study looked at how Atrial Fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm problem, causes heart failure. It found that AF leads to heart issues through fast heart rates, irregular rhythms, and problems in the heart's atrial muscle, which can lead to lasting damage if not treated early. This is important because managing AF quickly can help prevent serious long-term complications for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Atrial Fibrillation and heart failure.

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This study examined how cells make decisions about their fate by analyzing complex communication networks within them. Researchers found that these networks often lead to a limited number of outcomes (or phenotypes), which can be described using just a few key patterns—specifically, one main pattern explained 80% of the variability in outcomes. Understanding this can help in predicting how cells behave in various situations, which is important for fields like cancer research and regenerative medicine. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on treatments that involve cell behavior, such as cancer therapies and tissue engineering.

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This study focused on improving error correction in quantum computers, which is essential for them to work reliably. Researchers created a type of memory using a novel approach that combines different types of quantum bits, achieving a logical error rate of about 1.75% for certain codes. These findings show that this method can help make quantum computers more efficient and effective at correcting mistakes, which is crucial for their practical use. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers working on quantum computing technology.

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This study looked at recent changes to global health rules aimed at improving responses to health crises, like pandemics. It found that amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) and a new Pandemic Agreement can help nations, including Israel, better prepare for future health threats without taking away their control over public health decisions. This matters because it supports global cooperation while ensuring that countries can still prioritize their own health needs. Who this helps: This helps patients and public health officials in Israel and around the world.

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This study looked at how using fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray) can improve the delivery of the SMA treatment nusinersen in young patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and complicated spine curves. Out of 124 injections, the method was successful 99% of the time, with only one unsuccessful attempt. This is important because it shows that fluoroscopy can help doctors give this vital medication more effectively and safely to patients who have difficult spinal structures. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients with spinal muscular atrophy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how infections in the airways affect the health of people with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Over a 14-year period, researchers found that 23% of patients had at least one airway infection, and those with chronic infections had a more significant decline in lung function—an average drop of 11.5% in lung capacity two years after infection, compared to just 1.5% for those without a chronic infection. This matters because worsening lung function and more frequent health crises can lead to serious complications for CF patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with Cystic Fibrosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at how cancer cells use different ways of processing nutrients, like sugar and fat, to grow and survive. Researchers created a model that identified four types of cancer cell metabolism and found that those with hybrid metabolic features had the worst survival rates, indicating a link between certain metabolic behaviors and poor patient outcomes. Understanding these metabolic patterns can help develop better treatments targeting the way cancer cells adapt to their environment. Who this helps: This helps patients by guiding doctors toward more effective cancer treatments.

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This study looked at veterans from the Israeli Defense Forces to see if their military roles were linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a serious neurological disease. They found that 46% of ALS patients had served in combat, compared to only 22.7% of those without ALS. This suggests that those who served in combat roles are nearly two and a half times more likely to develop ALS. Who this helps: This research benefits veterans and healthcare providers by identifying potential risks associated with military service.

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This study focused on improving how we understand gene expression changes in cancer cells over time, using a new tool called PROFET. The researchers found that some breast cancer cells, when treated with the drug palbociclib, showed significant changes in their characteristics, identifying a specific group of cells that reacted differently to treatment. This is important because it helps predict how different patients might respond to cancer therapies, which can lead to more personalized and effective treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients with breast cancer and their doctors by providing insights into treatment responses.

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This study looked at how certain gene networks help stem cells develop into different types of cells. The researchers found that when different gene regulators work against each other, they can create mixed cell types that can eventually develop into specific cell types. They discovered that these mixed or "hybrid" cells are able to change into distinct cell types depending on signals from their environment. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors focusing on stem cell therapies and immune cell treatments.

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This study looked at how Latine individuals who speak limited English face challenges in accessing eye care, especially for glaucoma screening. It found that out of 154 participants, 22 screened positive for glaucoma, and 21 chose to share their experiences. The main barriers included language issues, lack of insurance, and transportation problems, but participants said that the MI-SIGHT program's use of Spanish, low-cost services, and transportation help made a big difference in getting the care they needed. Who this helps: This benefits Latine patients with limited English proficiency who need eye care.

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This study looked at cancer patients treated at the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center (COH) and compared their survival rates to those in a national database (SEER). It found that COH patients lived longer across various cancer types, with significantly better survival rates—like a 27% lower risk of death for non-small cell lung cancer patients and a 38% lower risk for prostate cancer patients. This shows that care at specialized cancer centers can lead to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients seeking more effective treatment options.

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This study explored how a particular type of slime mold, Dictyostelium discoideum, moves towards chemicals in its environment, a process called chemotaxis. Researchers used a new computer modeling approach that accurately mimics the way these cells extend their structures while making directional movements. They found that their model could reproduce the natural patterns of movement seen in these cells, which is important for understanding how they navigate towards food sources. Who this helps: This research benefits biologists and scientists studying cellular movement and behavior.

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This study looked at how well people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) in Israel are getting vaccinated compared to the general population. Researchers found that while 92% of pwCF received the initial vaccines in their first year, coverage dropped significantly for later vaccines: only 76% got the hepatitis A vaccine and only 61.8% received the pneumococcal vaccine, compared to much higher rates in the general population. This is important because low vaccination rates can leave pwCF vulnerable to severe infections, making awareness and action on vaccinations critical for their health. Who this helps: Patients with cystic fibrosis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the emotional struggles of families whose loved ones were kidnapped in Gaza during a recent attack in October 2023. Interviews with 18 family members revealed key challenges they face, such as dealing with deep personal trauma while also feeling part of a larger national crisis, and experiencing ongoing uncertainty about their loved ones' fates. The findings underscore the importance of considering the broader social and political context when addressing the emotional needs of these families. Who this helps: This benefits families of kidnapping victims and the professionals supporting them.

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This study looked at how a new touchscreen tool, called TATOO, could improve the assessment of fine motor skills in children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) who are being treated with a medication called nusinersen. Thirteen participants, aged 6 to 23, showed significant improvements in hand grip strength and fine motor tasks compared to traditional methods. This matters because it indicates that the TATOO tool can provide better insights into subtle changes in motor abilities that existing assessments might miss. Who this helps: This benefits patients with SMA and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how cells change their identities, specifically focusing on hybrid cell types that are part of the process of cancer spread. The researchers developed a new model to better understand these hybrid cells, finding that they show a mix of characteristics from both normal (epithelial) and more mobile (mesenchymal) cells. Their analysis revealed that these hybrid cells are more stable and capable of movement during cancer metastasis, which is important for understanding how cancer spreads in the body. Who this helps: This benefits cancer researchers and doctors who are looking for better ways to treat and manage cancer.

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This study looked at why some adults in the U.S. and Israel choose disposable electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) over non-disposable ones. They found that in Israel, factors like seeing e-cigarettes as harmful and buying them from physical stores were linked to using disposables, while in the U.S., past use of other tobacco products and a preference for sweet flavors were significant factors. These findings are important because they can help shape public health policies, especially as some countries consider banning disposable e-cigarettes and flavored options to reduce their use. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers.

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This study looked at how a specific signaling pathway, called Notch, influences the behavior of melanoma cells, particularly their ability to spread and become more invasive. Researchers found that even when Notch signaling isn't active, a molecule called miR-222 continues to drive this invasive behavior, highlighting the interaction between signaling pathways and genetic changes in the cells. Understanding these mechanisms can help develop better treatments for metastatic melanoma, which is currently hard to manage. Who this helps: This helps patients with metastatic melanoma by guiding new treatment strategies.

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This study looked at 29 cases of pediatric lung transplants performed at a major center in Israel over a period from 1997 to now. The research found that the most common reasons for these transplants were cystic fibrosis (44%) and pulmonary hypertension (17%). Survival rates after one year were high at 90%, but dropped to 20% after 15 years, which matches findings from other global data. Who this helps: This information benefits patients needing lung transplants and doctors who specialize in pediatric lung diseases.

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This study focused on understanding how cells transition from an epithelial state to a mesenchymal state, a process important for development, healing, and cancer spread. The researchers used computer models to simulate how changes in certain genes could trigger this transition, finding that "transcriptional noise" can increase the chances of this shift occurring. Their findings will help to create better models for predicting how cells change in different biological situations, which is crucial for advancing treatments in medicine. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on cancer treatment and tissue repair.

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This research focused on improving the prediction of how certain T cells recognize and respond to different antigens, which are substances that provoke an immune response. The team developed a new model called RACER-m that uses structural information from known T cell receptor-antigen interactions. They found that this model requires fewer examples to make accurate predictions while still reliably identifying important variations that could affect how T cells bind to antigens. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare professionals working on immunotherapy and vaccine development.

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The study looked at how exposure to fine particulate matter (tiny pollution particles) during pregnancy affects the weight of newborns. It found that for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in air pollution, the odds of having a low birth weight baby (less than 5.5 pounds) increased by 7%. The results varied by region, showing a stronger effect in Europe compared to Asia and the United States, indicating that local conditions should guide health policies. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of clean air during pregnancy.

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This study examined how effective a Novavax booster vaccine is for 56 patients with blood cancers who already received their initial COVID-19 vaccinations and mRNA boosters. After the Novavax booster, there was a slight increase in specific antibodies and B cells at 28 days, but overall immune responses faded after 168 days, showing only a small increase in protection. This is important because it helps understand how effective different types of vaccines are for vulnerable patients. Who this helps: Patients with blood cancers.

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This study looked at how technology can be used to create group exercise programs for older adults with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Researchers found that these programs, which included activities like exergames and virtual cycling, were feasible and beneficial for participants, showing improvements in physical health and social well-being. Specifically, 14 studies involved 379 participants, highlighting the potential of technology to combat social isolation in this population. Who this helps: This benefits older adults with dementia or MCI and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how nucleosomes, which are protein structures that package DNA, influence the process by which genes are turned on and off (transcription). The researchers found that nucleosomes can both hinder and help the movement of the transcription machinery: while stable nucleosomes can slow down this process, more dynamic ones can actually improve it by allowing easier movement on the DNA. Understanding these roles is important because it can help scientists figure out how different genes are expressed based on their surrounding nucleosomes. Who this helps: This research benefits researchers looking to develop targeted therapies and improve genetic understanding in patients with genetic disorders.

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This study looked at how environmental pollutants found in seminal plasma might affect male fertility. Researchers tested sperm samples from 100 men and found that high levels of a chemical called etriadizole were linked to a significant drop in total motile sperm and sperm concentration, with a probability of less than 0.001 for the drop in motile sperm. Another harmful chemical, nitrosodiethylamine, was also identified as being associated with decreased sperm health. Who this helps: This research benefits patients concerned about male fertility and doctors treating reproductive health issues.

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This study looked at whether a special dexamethasone insert placed in the eye is better at preventing inflammation after cataract surgery compared to standard eye drops. The researchers found that inflammation occurred more often in patients using the insert (9.0%) than in those using the drops (3.1%), while both groups had similar rates of a specific type of swelling (cystoid macular edema). This is important because it shows that while the insert is safe, it may not be the best choice for preventing inflammation after surgery. Who this helps: Patients recovering from cataract surgery.

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This study looked at how cells change from one type to another during a process called epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is important in many diseases, including cancer. Researchers found that there are three main paths that cells can take during EMT: low, partial, and high EMT states. Specifically, they discovered that cells on the partial EMT path show a range of behaviors and characteristics, with certain genes being activated or deactivated at specific times, providing insight into how these transitions can impact cell behavior. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those with cancer, by improving understanding of how tumors might behave and respond to treatments.

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This study looked at how Philip Morris International marketed its heated tobacco product, IQOS, in Arab and Jewish neighborhoods in Israel. Researchers found that while most marketing strategies were similar, more retailers in Arab neighborhoods were invited to promotional events (47.6% compared to 21.7%) and had direct contact with company representatives (80% vs. 51.2%). Interestingly, Arab retailers were better at following display laws but less compliant with plain packaging rules, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring of tobacco marketing practices, especially in different communities. Who this helps: Patients and public health advocates focused on reducing tobacco use.

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This study looked at how well public health programs in Israel prepare students for their future careers by analyzing their educational strengths and weaknesses. Researchers evaluated five schools offering public health degrees, finding that their programs covered between 45% and 84% of the necessary skills and knowledge areas. Most programs did well in areas like methods and socioeconomic factors but struggled with environmental health and policy topics, pointing to gaps in training that need to be addressed. Who this helps: This benefits students in public health programs and the communities they will serve.

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This study looked at how the 2023 Israel-Hamas war affected the health and well-being of women, focusing on three groups: women from hostage families, volunteers helping during the crisis, and the general female population. It found that 61.6% of women in hostage families reported poor physical health, and 84% said they needed mental health support. Overall, all women experienced declines in both mental and physical health due to stress from the conflict, but those in hostage families were the most severely affected. Who this helps: This research helps women affected by armed conflict, especially those in hostage families, by highlighting their urgent need for mental health support and long-term care.

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This research paper looks at the experiences of three elderly hostages, aged 80 and above, who were taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, where many civilians were killed and over 250 people were kidnapped. It highlights that 13% of those taken were older than 65, with a significant portion being octogenarians, and notes that the extreme stress and vulnerability of these older individuals represents a serious case of elder abuse. Understanding their plight is crucial because it sheds light on how elderly people suffer in conflict situations. Who this helps: This helps advocates for the elderly and those working to protect human rights, particularly in crisis situations.

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This study looked at how well a new gene therapy called onasemnogene abeparvovec (OA) works for children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), specifically focusing on their respiratory health before and one year after treatment. Out of 25 patients treated, 10 needed some form of breathing support after treatment, but overall, the amount of time spent on ventilation decreased from 14.3 hours to 11.1 hours per day, and hospital visits for breathing issues dropped by 26%. This is important because improving breathing can significantly impact the quality of life for SMA patients and reduce serious health risks. Who this helps: Patients with spinal muscular atrophy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the mass hostage-taking of 251 people in Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, affected the mental health of the general public. Researchers surveyed 740 participants and found that 85% felt uncertain about the return of the hostages, which led to significant emotional distress, including feelings of pain and survivor guilt. The results emphasize the importance of community-focused support rather than just personal coping strategies, as collective trauma impacts everyone in the community. Who this helps: This helps communities affected by trauma, mental health professionals, and policymakers.

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This study looked at how visits to emergency departments for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) changed in Israel before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that during the early pandemic, visits dropped significantly, especially among women aged 65 and older, by about 18.4%. Even during the later stages of the pandemic, with vaccines available and no lockdowns, there was still a notable drop of 20.1% in visits from women aged 25 to 64. This matters because understanding these trends can help create better public health strategies to ensure people seek emergency care when needed, especially during health crises. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially older women and younger women at risk for heart issues.