MARK K. CRAWFORD, MD

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This study focused on creating a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program for teenagers who struggle with insomnia and also have mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Researchers collaborated with experts through three rounds of questionnaires, helping to shape a new four-week program that includes both sessions and training for practitioners. The findings underscore the importance of tailoring treatment for adolescents and involving their parents in the process, making it a significant step towards better support for this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents with insomnia and mental health issues, their families, and the professionals helping them.

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This study looked at how treatment for opioid use disorders affects the availability of services for alcohol use disorders in healthcare organizations. Researchers found that 81% of organizations offered brief counseling for alcohol issues, but only 45% provided medications for alcohol use disorders directly. Notably, organizations that treated opioid addiction with buprenorphine were more likely to offer alcohol-related services, showing that treating one addiction does not reduce the ability to treat another. Who this helps: This benefits patients who struggle with both alcohol and opioid use disorders by ensuring they have access to comprehensive treatment options.

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This study looked at how the hardening of arteries, measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV), affects individuals with serious mental illness (SMI), revealing that two-thirds of the patients had a vascular age older than their actual age. The average vascular age was found to be about 64 years, while the patients' average age was only 59. Moreover, 40% of the patients had high central blood pressure, which is a concerning sign for heart health. Understanding these findings is crucial because they highlight the increased risk for heart-related issues in patients with SMI, which could help improve their health management. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with serious mental illness and the healthcare providers who care for them.

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This study looked at how certain fatty acids are transferred from mothers to their unborn babies during pregnancy. Researchers found that arachidonic acid (AA) levels increased more than docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the blood of fetuses, with AA rising from 13.55% in mothers to 14.87% in babies (a significant increase), while DHA only increased from 4.11% to 4.40%. This is important because it shows that AA plays a crucial role in fetal development, suggesting that dietary guidelines for pregnant women and baby formula might need to change to focus more on AA. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and their babies by ensuring they receive the right nutrients for healthy development.

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This study looked at how researchers use a method called ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to gather real-time information about self-harm behaviors in young people aged 10 to 24. It reviewed 79 studies and found that self-harm is linked to several risk factors, such as negative emotions, stress, and poor sleep, and that young people generally accepted this method well. Understanding these factors in real-time can help improve ways to predict and prevent self-harm among adolescents. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents and young adults struggling with self-harm, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how meaning, purpose, and spirituality (MPS) affect the well-being of healthcare workers, who often experience burnout and job dissatisfaction. Experts found that incorporating MPS into wellness programs can improve mental health, reduce burnout, and increase overall life satisfaction for clinicians. By focusing on MPS, healthcare organizations can create a supportive work environment that helps professionals feel more motivated and connected to their work. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare workers and organizations aiming to improve clinician well-being.

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This study looked at whether underserved patients, mainly those on Medicaid, are interested in using telemedicine for orthopedic appointments. Out of 256 patients surveyed, 76.6% expressed interest in telemedicine, but younger individuals with internet access showed a higher willingness to use these services. Interestingly, education level and insurance type did not affect interest as the researchers expected, which highlights the importance of access to technology over other factors. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those in underserved communities seeking orthopedic care.

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This study developed a new optical sensor that can continuously measure how quickly a dye called indocyanine green (ICG) is cleared from human livers during a specific preservation process known as machine perfusion. The sensor provided highly accurate measurements, closely matching traditional methods, and detected important changes in liver function as temperatures varied. This technology allows for better monitoring of liver health, which can lead to more effective use of available organs for transplantation. Who this helps: This benefits patients awaiting liver transplants by improving the evaluation of donor organs.

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This study looked at a parenting program called Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities (SFSC) to see if it improves the mental health of parents, particularly from diverse and low-income backgrounds in England. The research found that parents who participated in the program reported higher mental wellbeing scores—about 1.89 points higher right after the program and 1.66 points higher after six months compared to those who were on a waiting list. Importantly, this improvement did not come with higher costs; the average cost per participant was £1,081, and there were no significant issues reported. Who this helps: This benefits parents, especially those from low-income and ethnic minority backgrounds.

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This study looked at a new program called Type 1 Diabetes Education and Support (T1DES) designed to help Black young adults manage diabetes-related stress and improve their blood sugar levels. The researchers want to see if T1DES, which includes tailored workshops, is better than standard diabetes education, with 80 participants split evenly between the two approaches. If T1DES is effective, it could lead to better health outcomes and less emotional stress for Black young adults with type 1 diabetes. Who this helps: Black young adults with type 1 diabetes.

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This study looked at factors that affect how long children wait for a liver transplant and created a scoring system to help predict those wait times. Researchers analyzed data from over 5,200 pediatric liver transplant candidates and found that being at a high-volume transplant center significantly increases the chance of receiving a transplant within a year, while high sodium levels or serious liver damage decrease that chance. This research is important because it helps doctors identify which children may face longer wait times and offers ways to explore alternative options for those at higher risk. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children needing liver transplants, and their doctors.

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This study looked at whether living farther away from a liver transplant center affects patients' health and survival after receiving a liver transplant. Researchers analyzed data from 973 patients and found that those living more than 100 kilometers away had fewer clinic visits and readmissions in the first year after surgery, but distance didn't impact their long-term survival or the health of their transplanted liver. Understanding these patterns helps ensure that distance from care doesn't create disadvantages in outcomes for liver transplant patients. Who this helps: This benefits liver transplant patients and healthcare providers.

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This study examined how certain immune system characteristics affect the response to immunotherapy in colorectal cancer patients, specifically those with different genetic types of the disease. Researchers found that patients with high levels of a protein called CD74, especially in a specific immune environment enriched with certain immune cells, are more likely to respond to treatment. For example, colorectal cancer patients with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) who have high CD74 showed better outcomes, while a subset of proficient mismatch repair (pMMR) patients also experienced improved survival when treated with the same therapy. Who this helps: This research benefits colorectal cancer patients and doctors by identifying which patients are more likely to respond to immunotherapy.

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This research studied how the SARS-CoV-2 virus develops new genetic sequences that help it survive and avoid the immune system. The scientists discovered that these changes, particularly one in the Nucleocapsid gene, are found in almost all variants of the virus, including Alpha, Gamma, and Omicron. This specific change allows the virus to produce a subgenomic RNA that blocks the immune response, making infection more effective. Who this helps: This helps patients by contributing to a better understanding of how the virus evolves and evades immune responses, which can inform vaccine and treatment development.

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This research looked at how China's food system can be changed to better meet social and environmental goals set by the United Nations. The study found that individual efforts like improving health diets can improve nutrition, health, and the environment without major downsides, while focusing only on climate change or economic growth can lead to conflicts between social and environmental goals. By combining all three strategies, China can achieve better outcomes for health and the environment together. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and planners working to improve food systems in China.

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This study looked at how involving researchers who have personal experience with the criminal justice system impacts a trial that helps treat adult males with offending behavior. Researchers interviewed 30 participants and 17 stakeholders, finding that having people with lived experience helped build trust and improved communication, which made some participants feel more comfortable. However, not all engagement barriers were resolved, and some new challenges arose as well. Who this helps: This benefits patients in the criminal justice system by making research more relatable and trustworthy.

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This study looked at the relationship between the intake of omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish) and symptoms of depression and anxiety in 302 pregnant women in Oman. It found that about 30.5% of the women had depression symptoms and 26.1% had anxiety, which were linked to low fish consumption and omega-3 intake. Women with these symptoms also had lower levels of important fatty acids compared to healthier pregnant women, highlighting the importance of omega-3s for maternal mental health and overall pregnancy outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a specific type of therapy called Mentalisation-based treatment (MBT) designed for men with antisocial personality disorder who are on probation in England and Wales. It found that after 12 months, men receiving MBT had significantly lower aggression scores (an average of 90) compared to those who only received regular probation services (an average of 186), indicating that the therapy was effective in reducing aggressive behaviors. This matters because it shows that MBT could be a useful tool in helping these individuals manage their emotions and behaviors better. Who this helps: This helps patients with antisocial personality disorder on probation.

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This study looked at how chronic social isolation and alcohol use affect the way male and female rats respond to ketamine, a drug that can help treat depression. The findings showed that female rats tended to use more ketamine than males, and past alcohol exposure led to higher ketamine use in females and males who had been isolated. This is important because it highlights that the effects of ketamine may vary based on gender and drinking history, which should be considered when using ketamine to treat depression. Who this helps: This helps patients with depression, particularly those with a history of alcohol use.

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This study explored a new technique called ex vivo cholangioscopy to examine the bile ducts in liver grafts before transplantation. Researchers tested this method on eight unsuitable human donor livers and found debris in the bile ducts while they were preserved and changes in their appearance after machine treatment. This technique allows for real-time assessment of the bile ducts, which could reduce complications after liver transplants. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients receiving liver transplants by improving the assessment of donor organs.

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This study focused on treating melasma, a stubborn skin condition that causes dark patches and can affect people's confidence. Researchers treated a 50-year-old patient with a combination of a special laser and a topical solution made from isobionicamide and cysteamine. As a result, the patient showed significant improvement, which is important because effective treatments for melasma can be hard to find, especially for individuals with darker skin types. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from melasma, especially those with darker skin.

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This study looked at hospital mortality rates to see if they were influenced more by new medical trainees starting in the fall or by other factors like seasonal illnesses. It found that hospital deaths were highest in the winter months (January to March) at 4.0% and lowest in the spring (April to June) at 2.7%, showing that winter illnesses play a big role in these trends, rather than the inexperience of new trainees. This matters because understanding these patterns can help hospitals allocate resources better, especially during times when patient care is under more strain. Who this helps: This helps patients and hospital administrators implement better care strategies.

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This study examined three infants who were exposed to COVID-19 before birth and developed a liver condition that affected their bile flow, leading to severe liver failure. Despite not having serious COVID infections themselves, all three infants developed significant liver issues early in life and required liver transplants within the first year. This raises concerns about how COVID exposure during pregnancy might impact a baby's liver health, especially in those with underlying conditions. Who this helps: This helps pediatricians and families of infants at risk for liver disease.

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This study examines how changing the environment in communities can improve mental health through a method called nidotherapy. It involves assessing and making agreed-upon changes in the living environment of six village communities in Nottinghamshire, with about 400 adults participating. Researchers will look at improvements in social interactions, quality of life, and mental health symptoms over a year, with results expected to show meaningful benefits for those involved. Who this helps: This helps patients with mental health issues, their families, and community health workers.

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This study looked at whether healthcare organizations with special contracts from Medicare and Medicaid provide methadone treatment for people struggling with opioid addiction. The researchers found that only 28.3% of these organizations offered methadone programs, with those having Medicaid contracts more likely to provide it (46%) compared to those with just Medicare (19.6%) or both (30.3%). This is important because it highlights a gap in treatment options for patients with opioid use disorder, indicating that many organizations aren’t fully meeting the needs of these individuals. Who this helps: Patients with opioid use disorder.

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This study looked at patients with adrenal incidentalomas (AIs), which are growths on the adrenal glands that might produce too much cortisol, a hormone that can weaken bones. Out of nearly 15,000 patients, only 273 had confirmed high cortisol levels, while many remained untested. The findings indicate that patients with high cortisol levels, or those who were not tested, might have a higher risk of fractures, although the numbers weren’t strong enough to prove this definitively. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with adrenal incidentalomas, especially those who may be at risk for fractures due to excess cortisol.

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This study created a new method to keep rat livers functioning outside the body for up to 72 hours using a special machine. They found that all five livers tested remained healthy and viable after this period, showing good oxygen use and bile production. This research is important because it provides a practical way to study liver function and improve treatments for liver transplants. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on liver transplantation and treatments.

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This study examined how arts programs are used in medical education worldwide, analyzing 134 studies across 27 countries that included over 10,700 medical students. Researchers found that most programs involved activities like visual and performing arts, focusing on building skills and empathy, but there were few studies on using art for social change. This is important because integrating arts more effectively could enhance medical training, leading to better healthcare professionals. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and, ultimately, their patients by improving how doctors understand and connect with diverse communities.

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This study looked at how effective and safe the antibiotic fidaxomicin is for treating children and teenagers with Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI), especially those with recurring cases. Out of 95 patients, 53% showed complete recovery two weeks after starting treatment, while another 31% saw improvements. Importantly, only about 22% of those who initially responded had a return of the infection after 60 days, and kids with inflammatory bowel disease had a lower chance of full recovery. Who this helps: This benefits children and teenagers with CDI, especially those with other health issues.

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This study looked at how well a technique called normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) works for smaller liver segments used in pediatric liver transplants. The researchers found that these smaller segments can be perfused without causing significant injury, lasting an average of 5.7 days after separation. This is important because it suggests that this technique could be safely used to improve liver transplant options for kids. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric patients in need of liver transplants.

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This study looked at how changes in land use and food demand can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the impacts of climate change. It found that transforming our food system, including reducing food waste and shifting to a healthier diet, along with aggressive climate action in land and energy use, could limit global warming to below 1.5°C by 2100. However, even with these changes, many environmental limits—like those for climate and biodiversity—would still be exceeded, highlighting the need for careful planning to address these interconnected issues. Who this helps: This benefits everyone, especially policymakers and environmental advocates working to combat climate change.

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This study looked at a new, inexpensive machine for preserving liver grafts before transplantation, called the COARO system, to see how well it could be used in routine clinical practice. They tested it on 45 liver transplant patients and found that it was safe; there were no device failures, although 15.6% experienced early problems with their new liver. The total cost of using the COARO system was about $1,495 per transplant, making it 80% cheaper than similar systems, which could help more hospitals, especially in lower-resource areas, use this technology. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing liver transplants and hospitals in less wealthy regions.

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This study looked at how to reduce the time patients with urinary tract infections spend in the hospital at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust. By improving how urine samples are collected and processed, they reduced labeling errors by 50%, which resulted in saving about 10 hospital bed days each month. This is important because shorter stays in the hospital can lead to better patient experiences and less strain on hospital resources. Who this helps: This benefits patients with urinary tract infections and healthcare staff.

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This study looked at how teenagers with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) view their physical activity, sedentary time, and sleep, and how these factors connect with each other. Researchers interviewed 15 adolescents aged 11-18 and found that the teenagers recognized that getting enough sleep and being active positively affects their mood and diabetes management. Specifically, they valued sleep and activity more than sitting still, and they understood that balancing these behaviors is crucial for their health. Who this helps: This helps adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the survival rates of children who received liver transplants, focusing on those with a type of liver disease known as cholestatic disease. The researchers found that children with this condition had a better 25-year survival rate of about 33% compared to those without it, while certain factors like older donor age and being a minority recipient were linked to lower survival chances. These findings matter because they highlight important factors that can affect long-term survival after a liver transplant, helping doctors improve care and outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers in planning and improving liver transplant care.

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This study looked at how different medications for opioid use disorder during pregnancy affected newborns with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). The researchers found that babies exposed to these medications (like buprenorphine) had better outcomes, including a 51% lower chance of being born early and a reduced hospital stay by 35% to 39%. This is important because it highlights that proper treatment for opioid use disorder in pregnant women leads to healthier births and shorter recovery times for infants. Who this helps: Pregnant women with opioid use disorder and their newborns.

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Researchers looked at how long children on the heart transplant waiting list survive over the past several decades. They found that one-year survival rates jumped from 21.1% between 1987 and 1990 to 70.5% from 2021 to 2023. This improvement is important because it shows that changes in transplant policies and better medical devices have helped save more young lives while they wait for a heart transplant. Who this helps: This helps children in need of a heart transplant and their families.

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This study looked at military veterans with sleep problems, specifically obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), insomnia, and a combination of both (COMISA), to see how their sleep patterns and preferences (chronotypes) affected their overall well-being. Researchers found that about two-thirds of the 387 veterans had COMISA, and those with COMISA or insomnia alone experienced more anxiety and depression compared to those with only OSA. Additionally, 19% of the veterans with insomnia and 17% with COMISA preferred to stay up late (evening chronotype), which was linked to more severe depressive symptoms. Who this helps: This research helps veterans dealing with sleep disorders and healthcare professionals managing their care.

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This study looked at how common complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is among patients being treated for borderline personality disorder (BPD). Researchers found that 57% of the 87 patients studied likely had C-PTSD, with 93% reporting a history of trauma. This matters because C-PTSD symptoms can worsen mental health issues in these patients, suggesting that treatment approaches may need to change to better address these overlaps. Who this helps: Patients with borderline personality disorder and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how residents of Flint, Michigan, responded to requests to share their personal health data with a public health registry after their water was contaminated with lead. Researchers found that a high percentage of participants agreed to share their information, with 88% willing to be contacted for future research, 84% consenting to share data for referrals to services, and 74% of those with Medicaid agreeing to share their Medicaid information. This is important because it shows that even in a situation filled with distrust, many people are willing to help public health efforts, which can lead to better support for those affected by environmental disasters. Who this helps: This benefits Flint residents and public health officials working to improve community health outcomes.

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The study examined a type of short therapy called psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy to see if it helps people over 18 who have harmed themselves and attended the hospital for treatment. Although the trial faced challenges and ended early, it found that 18.2% of those receiving the therapy repeated self-harm compared to none in the standard care group over six months. This matters because effective psychological support can reduce future self-harm incidents, which is crucial for suicide prevention efforts. Who this helps: Patients who have a history of self-harm.

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Researchers studied how Lehmann lovegrass, an invasive plant, thrives in North American semi-arid areas compared to a native grass called Arizona cottontop. They discovered that Lehmann lovegrass has special traits that help it grow better in dry, nutrient-poor conditions: it uses nitrogen more efficiently, has fewer defenses in its roots, and changes the substances it releases into the soil when stressed. These findings show that Lehmann lovegrass adapts well to tough environments, which is important for understanding and managing invasive species. Who this helps: This helps land managers and conservationists working to control invasive plants.

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This study looked at a healthy 58-year-old man from Southern Arizona who developed a widespread fungal infection called disseminated histoplasmosis, even though he wasn't in a known high-risk area. His diagnosis took longer than it should have because his symptoms didn’t match the usual signs of the disease. The findings highlight the need for doctors to consider this infection in healthy patients who show certain symptoms, even if they live outside common outbreak zones. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by raising awareness of rare infections.

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This study looked at how immune cells interact in liver cancer tumors and nearby tissues. Researchers examined 16 tumors and found that while most immune cell types were present in similar amounts across the tumor and surrounding areas, a specific group of immune cells called macrophages were much more abundant inside the tumors. The presence of these macrophages could influence how blood vessels grow in the tumor, which is important for understanding how the immune system works in cancer. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, doctors, and researchers studying liver cancer.