DR. JAMES N. GLENN, M.D.

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Computer simulations and lab experiments showed that fentanyl moves through cell membranes roughly 100 times faster than morphine, helping explain why fentanyl acts so rapidly and powerfully as a painkiller. The drug partitions into cell membranes and can re-emerge to reactivate opioid receptors even after the external drug is removed, a property not shared by morphine. This membrane permeation mechanism has direct implications for understanding fentanyl overdose and for designing better antidotes.

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This study looked at tests for measuring HDV RNA levels in patients with hepatitis D, a severe liver disease that can occur alongside hepatitis B. The researchers found that current tests vary widely in accuracy and effectiveness due to factors like differences in viral types and testing methods, making it hard to get consistent results. Having reliable HDV RNA tests is crucial for monitoring patient responses to new treatments and improving the understanding of this disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hepatitis D and their doctors, as better tests can lead to more effective treatment monitoring.

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This study looked at the rise of resistance to integrase inhibitors, a type of HIV medication, in children and adolescents with HIV acquired at birth. Out of 114 cases analyzed, 19 (or 31%) showed resistance mutations, especially among those with extensive previous treatments. This finding is important because it highlights that children in low and middle-income countries, who are experiencing treatment failures, need better access to alternative HIV medications that can help manage their condition. Who this helps: Patients, especially children and adolescents with HIV from low and middle-income countries.

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This study focused on creating and setting up the optical equipment for a new telescope called EXCLAIM, which will study how stars form in the universe by observing certain gases like carbon monoxide. The telescope will operate at very high frequencies and has been engineered to obtain clear images while minimizing interference from the atmosphere. The design includes a large mirror and special cooling systems to ensure accurate measurements. Who this helps: This benefits astronomers and researchers studying the formation of stars and galaxies.

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This study looked at sexual and reproductive health programs for young people in U.S. juvenile detention centers to understand how well these programs work. Researchers found 18 studies that showed positive effects, but most of them focused on risky behaviors and health issues like sexually transmitted infections rather than providing comprehensive health education. This is important because it highlights a significant lack of effective health interventions for these vulnerable youth, which could lead to ongoing health problems. Who this helps: This helps youth in juvenile detention facilities by improving their access to better health care and education.

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The Chicago Cancer Health Equity Collaborative studied how to adapt community events addressing cancer health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic. They shifted their annual Community Forum from in-person to virtual and then a hybrid model, finding that while most people preferred in-person events, about one-third liked the virtual format or were indifferent. This matters because strong partnerships and flexible event formats help keep the community engaged in important health discussions, even during challenging times. Who this helps: Patients and community members navigating cancer health issues.

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This study looked at why Black women with ovarian cancer are less likely to get genetic testing, which can help guide their treatment. Researchers interviewed 20 people—including patients and healthcare providers—and found four main reasons: many Black women feel overwhelmed by their cancer diagnosis, face socioeconomic challenges due to structural racism, have mistrust of the healthcare system, and encounter cultural barriers that discourage them from seeking genetic services. These insights are important because addressing these barriers can help improve access to genetic testing, which is crucial for better treatment options and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps Black ovarian cancer patients by improving their access to genetic testing and support.

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This study looked at a new type of drug that enhances the function of the dopamine D receptor, which is important for treating conditions like Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that these drugs bind to a unique site on the receptor, helping it work more effectively by improving how well it responds to dopamine. The research shows that this binding stabilizes a certain shape of the receptor that boosts its ability to signal, which could improve treatment outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at how to improve cancer prevention for women involved in the criminal legal system. Researchers worked with these women to highlight key issues affecting their access to cervical cancer care, such as healthcare policies. They found that using storytelling in their research helped to strengthen relationships and share important experiences but also made it challenging for everyone to lead together, especially during COVID-19. Who this helps: This benefits women with criminal legal system involvement and healthcare providers working to improve cancer care access.

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This study looked at how the drug fentanyl works in the body compared to other opioids, finding that fentanyl moves through cell membranes much more easily than morphine, making it more potent. Researchers discovered that fentanyl's ability to enter and accumulate in cell membranes is about 100 times faster than morphine, while another opioid, isotonitazene, does not enter cells effectively at all. These findings are important because they help explain why fentanyl is so dangerous and could inform the development of better treatments for opioid overdose. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of opioid overdose and healthcare providers managing their treatment.

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This study looked at the websites of different US state Departments of Corrections to see how easily they share information about research policies related to prisons. The researchers found that there is a lot of variation; some states have detailed information available, while others have little to none. This matters because clear research policies can improve the quality of studies conducted in prisons and support better practices within the system. Who this helps: This helps researchers and policymakers working in the correctional system.

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This study looked at the heart health of adults in the UK who were born with HIV and have been living with it since childhood. They found that although most of these patients had well-controlled HIV, more than half showed signs of a higher risk for heart disease. Specifically, 21% had high blood pressure and 57% had elevated scores indicating they might face increased cardiovascular issues in the future. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with perinatally acquired HIV and their healthcare providers by highlighting the need for more tailored heart health monitoring and treatment.

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This study focused on creating special tiny lenses made of silicon to improve the way telescopes observe far-infrared light in space. Researchers successfully made microlens arrays that are designed to work in specific light wavebands, measuring up to 80 by 15 millimeters, and achieved 84% efficiency in directing light to detectors, which is very close to their goal. This technology is important because it allows astronomers to capture clearer and more detailed images of distant cosmic objects. Who this helps: This benefits astronomers and researchers working in astrophysics.

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This study looked at how healthcare providers in the United States understand and address social factors that affect health, known as social determinants of health (SDOH). It found that while 68.5% of the providers believe SDOH greatly influence patient health, only 24.1% feel their healthcare settings effectively tackle these issues. Additionally, less than half of the providers are actively screening or addressing SDOH, and 55.7% expressed a need for better resources to help with this. Who this helps: This benefits patients by improving their overall health outcomes through more comprehensive care.

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This study looked at how many adults in the United States are infected with hepatitis delta virus (HDV), a serious liver infection, and found that about 75,000 people have it. They also estimated that nearly 2 million people have chronic hepatitis B (CHB), which often goes hand-in-hand with HDV. Understanding how many people are affected helps improve testing and treatment for those at risk or already affected by these infections. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with hepatitis infections, doctors, and public health officials.

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The study looked at how many adults in Canada have chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and hepatitis delta virus (HDV). It found that in 2021, about 550,000 people were living with CHB, including around 344,000 foreign-born individuals, and about 35,000 people had HDV. These findings are important because they highlight a significant number of people who may not be receiving proper diagnosis or treatment for these health issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by identifying those at risk and emphasizing the need for better testing and awareness.

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This study looked at the genetics of 82 captive marmosets at the Southwest National Primate Research Center to better understand their family ties and health. Researchers used a method called genotype-by-sequencing to reveal that over 9,800 genetic variants could affect human health, while finding that the marmosets showed low levels of inbreeding. This research is important because it helps ensure the marmosets are genetically healthy and can be a reliable resource for studying various health issues. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on human health conditions related to genetics.

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This study focused on a new smart toilet seat called the TrueLoo, designed to automatically track bathroom use among older adults. The findings showed that the TrueLoo accurately recorded toileting events, with a 96% accuracy for urine detection and 90% accuracy for stool detection, compared to self-reports, which were often much lower (only 7% for urine and 76% for stool). This is important because it can help caregivers better manage health and hygiene for seniors living independently or in assisted living facilities. Who this helps: This benefits older adults and their caregivers who work to ensure their health and well-being.

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The study looked at how women involved in the criminal justice system decided to get the flu vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of 507 women surveyed, 23.7% were supportive of the flu vaccine, while 38.3% were resistant to it. Women who got the COVID vaccine were less likely to stop getting the flu vaccine, suggesting that being vaccinated against COVID helped encourage flu vaccine uptake among these women. Who this helps: This helps women with criminal-legal system involvement and public health officials aiming to improve vaccination rates.

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This study looked at how certain chemical changes in a protein called the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) affect its function when opioids are used. Researchers found that specific parts of this receptor get modified in a particular order, which is important for recruiting another protein, β-arrestin2. They discovered that two subfamilies of the GRK protein contribute to these modifications, with GRK2/3 being crucial for the strongest recruitment of β-arrestin2. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and doctors working on improving pain management therapies that use opioids.

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This study looked at how two types of interferons, IFN-alpha and IFN-lambda, affect hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) in mice that have human-like immune systems. Researchers found that IFN-alpha led to a greater reduction in viral levels compared to IFN-lambda, with significant drops in HBV and HDV markers observed. This is important because it suggests that IFN-alpha could be more effective for treating these viral infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic hepatitis B and D infections by potentially offering a better treatment option.

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This study looked at how cancer patients from low-income neighborhoods in Washington D.C. choose where to get treatment. Researchers interviewed 15 patients and healthcare professionals and found that three main factors influence their decisions: health insurance issues, problems with transportation, and personal needs like housing and mental health. These barriers make it hard for patients to access the best care, underscoring the importance of addressing these issues to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients in economically marginalized areas by shedding light on the challenges they face in accessing care.

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This study looked at how the lung fluid from elderly people affects the behavior of tuberculosis bacteria when they infect lung cells. Researchers found that the lung fluid from older adults encourages the bacteria to become better at surviving and reproducing inside these cells, with a significant increase in the activity of important genes related to this process. Understanding this connection is crucial because it highlights how aging might make it easier for tuberculosis to thrive, which can help doctors develop better treatment strategies. Who this helps: Patients, especially older adults at risk for tuberculosis.

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The study looked at how patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) view their own condition and what challenges they face in getting treatment. Out of 124 patients diagnosed with OUD, 46% denied having the disorder at all, which highlighted a gap between how healthcare providers and patients understand the issue. This is important because it points to the need for clearer communication and personalized care plans to help patients manage their conditions and reduce stigma. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with opioid use disorder and health care providers.

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This study looked at a case of an 8-year-old boy who was initially thought to have appendicitis, but ended up having a traumatic rupture of his gallbladder after a previous liver surgery. Doctors often have a hard time diagnosing gallbladder injuries, which happen in only about 2% of blunt abdominal injuries, and rely on their intuition even when CT scans don’t show clear signs. The findings highlight the need for medical professionals to stay alert for possible gallbladder injuries in young patients with abdominal pain, even if the symptoms don’t fit the usual patterns. Who this helps: This helps doctors and pediatric patients who might present with similar symptoms.

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This study looked at how using a community health information exchange (HIE) by primary care doctors affects their patients after being discharged from the hospital. It found that when physicians consulted the HIE, patients were 61% less likely to be rehospitalized and 53% less likely to visit the emergency department soon after discharge. The average time before a patient returned to the hospital or emergency room increased from 99 days to 238 days, which shows that better information sharing can help keep patients healthier longer. Who this helps: This benefits patients recently discharged from the hospital and their primary care doctors.

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This study looked at a 4-year-old boy who suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen that didn't initially show signs of serious internal injury. Despite the lack of initial signs, the boy developed swelling in his belly and tests later revealed air in the abdomen, indicating damage to the small intestine. The findings highlight the need for careful monitoring of patients with certain types of abdominal injuries, as they may have hidden damage that requires treatment even if initial exams seem normal. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating children with abdominal injuries.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affected the mental health of frontline healthcare workers in the U.S. Researchers found that burnout increased by 54.8%, anxiety by 138.5%, and depression by 166.7% among these workers. These serious effects were linked to factors like high patient loads, long hours, and lack of protective gear, showing the urgent need for strategies to support their emotional well-being and job satisfaction. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and their employers.

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This study looked at women in the U.S. who are infected with or at risk for HIV to see how common hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis D (HDV) infections are. Researchers found that 2.8% of HIV-infected women had HBV, compared to 1.2% of those who were not infected with HIV. Among women with HBV, 22% also had HDV, and those with HDV were five times more likely to have severe liver damage. This matters because it highlights the need for testing for HDV in women already infected with HBV, as it can lead to serious health issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with HBV and HIV, and healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at how to better detect hepatitis D virus (HDV) in people who already have hepatitis B (HBV), which can lead to serious health issues like liver cancer. The researchers found that implementing a double testing strategy—first testing for HDV antibodies in all HBV patients, then testing those who test positive for HDV RNA—could identify more cases effectively. The estimated number of tests needed globally for this approach is around 1.99 million for HDV antibodies and less than 89,000 for HDV RNA, making it manageable for healthcare systems. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis B by ensuring those who also have hepatitis D are identified and treated.

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This study looked at how to work effectively with community members in research to ensure their needs are met, particularly in the context of a project examining heavy metal exposure in Chicago. Researchers at Northwestern University found that involving local people as community scientists helped improve ethical practices, relationships with participants, and responsiveness to community needs. For example, they emphasized the importance of open communication and collaboration to make the research more meaningful and beneficial. Who this helps: This helps patients and communities affected by environmental health issues.

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Researchers studied how the way infants with Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis (HPS) were admitted to the hospital—either directly or transferred from another facility—and their race affected their health outcomes. They reviewed 131 cases from 2015 to 2021 and found that neither the method of admission nor race made a difference in initial health measurements or the length of hospital stays. This means that factors like ultrasound availability are helping ensure consistent care for this condition, which could serve as a model for improving healthcare outcomes in other pediatric diseases that have larger disparities. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by promoting equal treatment and outcomes regardless of where they come from or their background.

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This study looked at how yoga instructors adjusted their yoga classes for older adults when moving the program online during a trial aimed at preventing falls among people aged 60 and above. The instructors faced challenges such as safety concerns, technology issues, and changes in how they connect with participants, but they developed effective strategies like personalized pre-class interviews and clearer instructions to improve the experience. These findings are important because they show how to make online yoga classes safer and more engaging for older adults, which could lead to better outcomes for their health. Who this helps: This helps older adults and yoga instructors involved in remote exercise programs.

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This research focused on a program called CHEC-Ins, which allows underserved Chicago communities to discuss their cancer experiences and needs directly with health researchers and organizations. The findings showed that these conversations revealed critical insights on how people access cancer information and health services, as well as the social support available in their communities. This is important because it helps tailor cancer research and outreach efforts to better fit what these communities need, ultimately leading to better health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients in underserved communities by ensuring their voices and concerns shape cancer care and research.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected residents in sober living homes, particularly focusing on their social connections and use of support services. Researchers surveyed 105 residents at three different points during the pandemic, finding that feelings of connection and the use of social services dropped significantly from February to December 2020 but improved from December 2020 to June 2021. The results showed that when residents used more support services, they were less likely to relapse, highlighting the importance of social support during challenging times. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from substance use disorders and the professionals who support them.

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This study looked at how healthcare providers feel about using electronic health records (EHRs) to spot and prevent opioid misuse and addiction. Out of nearly 18,000 providers surveyed, only 34% thought EHRs were effective in this area. Newer providers and advanced practice providers believed EHRs were more helpful compared to experienced doctors and trainees, highlighting the need for better training on EHR features to improve opioid misuse prevention. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers, particularly those treating patients at risk of opioid misuse.

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This study explored how structured conversations can help university students discuss difficult public health topics like COVID-19, mental health, and racism. After participating in these conversations, students showed a significant improvement in their attitudes toward openness and understanding others, with over 95% enjoying the experience. This matters because fostering better understanding around these divisive issues can lead to healthier discussions and relationships in communities. Who this helps: This benefits students and university communities.

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This study looked at two policies in Vietnam aimed at encouraging breastfeeding: extending maternity leave and limiting the advertising of breast milk substitutes. Researchers found that the extended maternity leave policy had positive effects, such as longer breastfeeding durations, while the restrictions on advertising greatly reduced the visibility of breast milk substitutes in media and healthcare settings. However, challenges remain, like insufficient funding and training, which hinder effective implementation. Who this helps: This benefits mothers, children, and healthcare providers in Vietnam.

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This research studied five specific microRNAs (miRNAs) and their connection to bone mineral density (BMD) in 147 healthy adult baboons aged 15 to 25 years. The study found these miRNAs were associated with bone health, suggesting that they might help indicate changes that occur before osteoporosis develops. This is important because identifying potential problems early can lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for bone diseases. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and researchers working on bone health and osteoporosis prevention.

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This study looked at how a program in Tanzania that promoted better infant feeding practices affected child nutrition. It found that mothers who heard radio messages or saw TV ads about feeding their babies were significantly more likely to start giving solid foods at the right age and to provide a diverse and acceptable diet. Specifically, mothers who listened to radio spots had more than double the chances of starting complementary feeding on time, and those who watched TV ads were better at providing a minimally diverse diet and meeting dietary standards. Who this helps: This benefits parents and their young children by promoting healthier feeding practices.

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This study looked at baboons to see how their immune response to the Zika virus compares to humans. Researchers found that male baboons often show no symptoms when infected but still generate a strong temporary immune response, which helps them fight off the virus later. This is important because understanding how Zika affects different species can help researchers develop better treatments for humans. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare professionals working on Zika virus and related illnesses.

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This study looked at a protein called Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), which is important in cancer growth, to understand how it interacts with different molecules. Researchers found that one specific nanobody, Q44c, can prevent EGF (a signaling molecule) from binding to EGFR, while another nanobody, Q86c, can sense when EGF is bound to EGFR, showing how the protein changes shape. These findings, particularly the ability to track these interactions in live cells, are crucial for developing new cancer treatments. Who this helps: This helps cancer researchers and clinicians working on targeted therapies.

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The study focuses on the health challenges faced by people involved in the criminal justice system in the USA. Researchers found that due to historical exploitation, there are strict regulations when studying this population, which can make it difficult for new researchers to get started. This is important because improving the health of incarcerated individuals can lead to better overall community health. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare providers, and the incarcerated population.

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This study looked at how well health workers in Bangladesh maintained their knowledge and skills related to infant and young child feeding (IYCF) three years after a training program ended. Researchers found that while health workers initially communicated more IYCF topics (4.9 vs. 4.0 topics) and significantly improved their knowledge (3.5-point increase vs. 1.5-point increase in comparison areas), these gains in service delivery did not last over time. By the end of the follow-up period, the health workers’ ability to deliver good IYCF services had declined, showing that refresher training programs could help maintain their skills. Who this helps: This benefits health workers and organizations involved in training programs for child nutrition.

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This study looked at how stopping financial rewards for community health workers (CHWs) in Bangladesh affected their motivation and performance in helping families with infant and young child feeding. Researchers found that after financial incentives were removed, CHWs showed a decreased desire to work, leading to fewer visits to families, lower quality of care, and even some workers leaving their positions. This matters because it highlights the importance of financial motivation for these workers to provide effective health services. Who this helps: This helps community health workers and the families they serve.