MARK P. GANNON, MD

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This study examined how a Western-style diet consumed by mothers during pregnancy and breastfeeding affects the liver of their young offspring. Researchers found that this diet led to changes in immune and liver cells, causing an unhealthy liver environment in young primates, with specific groups of immune cells showing reduced activity and increased signs of fibrosis (a type of tissue damage). These findings highlight the long-lasting negative impact a poor maternal diet can have on the liver health of children, even after they switch to a healthier diet after weaning. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children at risk of liver disease due to their mother's dietary choices.

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This study looked at the effects of a treatment called Aquablation on men with an enlarged prostate and bladder stones. Researchers compared 60 men with bladder stones to 1,825 men without and found that while the operation took longer for those with stones (about 76.5 minutes compared to 55 minutes), both groups had similar improvements in urinary symptoms and complications after the surgery. These findings show that Aquablation is a safe option for men dealing with both BPH and bladder stones. Who this helps: This helps men suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia and bladder stones, along with their doctors.

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This research looked at how doctors and doulas help pregnant women with opioid use disorder make decisions about treatment options. The study found that challenges, such as time limits and a lack of resources, can make it hard for them to share decision-making effectively, but giving patients more time and using decision support tools can help improve the process. This is important because better decision-making can lead to more personalized care and potentially better outcomes for these women and their babies. Who this helps: Patients with opioid use disorder during pregnancy.

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This study looked at how community doulas can help pregnant individuals dealing with opioid addiction by providing support in healthcare and legal situations. Researchers talked to 10 people, including doulas and staff from opioid treatment programs, and found that doulas are seen as valuable in reducing stigma and encouraging recovery. This is important because improving support for these patients can lead to better health outcomes for mothers and their babies. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant individuals with opioid use disorder and healthcare providers working with them.

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Researchers studied how a protein called 14-3-3θ affects the buildup of alpha-synuclein, which is linked to Parkinson's disease and dementia. They found that when this protein is modified (specifically at a site called serine 232), it loses its protective ability, leading to increased toxic alpha-synuclein buildup. This means that higher levels of this protein's modification may worsen neurodegeneration in conditions like Parkinson's and dementia. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's disease and dementia.

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This study looked at how a Western-style diet during pregnancy affects the liver health of babies and young macaques. It found that young macaques whose mothers ate a Western-style diet had signs of liver damage and abnormal bile acids, with increased liver fibrosis and stress, even if they switched to a healthier diet after weaning. This matters because it reveals that poor maternal diet can lead to long-term liver problems in offspring, starting before birth. Who this helps: This helps doctors and health professionals understand the risks of maternal diet on children’s liver health.

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This study looked at how pediatricians feel about and talk about mothers who have problems with opioid use. Out of 1,004 surveyed clinicians, 69% sometimes used the term "substance abuse," even though it is not recommended. The findings show that about 27% of pediatricians had a low blame attitude, and 38% had a high level of trust in these mothers, indicating that attitudes can be improved through better training and education, particularly since higher trust led to greater confidence in caring for children exposed to opioids. Who this helps: This helps mothers with opioid use disorder and their children by promoting better understanding and support from pediatricians.

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This study looked at how doctors interact with alerts designed to help manage high blood pressure in patients with chronic kidney disease. Researchers found that although there were many alerts generated for starting or adjusting medication, doctors often opted not to follow the recommendations; specifically, only about one-third of the suggested actions were actually taken. Understanding how doctors use these alerts can lead to better designs that might improve patient care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with chronic kidney disease.

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This study looked at various surgical methods to treat ischemic priapism, a painful and prolonged erection that occurs without sexual arousal. The researchers reviewed both older and newer surgical techniques, such as different shunting methods and decompression procedures. Understanding these techniques is important because they can provide effective relief for patients suffering from this condition. Who this helps: Patients experiencing ischemic priapism.

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This study focused on understanding what causes fire risks for people who are homeless. Researchers interviewed 12 burn patients living without stable housing and found that the most common fire sources included propane and alcohol-based liquids. They discovered that factors like unsafe storage of propane tanks and using heaters inside tents created dangerous situations and highlighted the need for targeted injury prevention strategies that consider the unique challenges faced by this group. Who this helps: This helps homeless individuals by informing safer living conditions and injury prevention efforts.

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This study looked at how social support affects the experiences of gender-diverse adolescents during their menstrual periods. Researchers interviewed 36 adolescents aged around 17 years and found that support from family, friends, and medical providers helps these individuals manage their periods, feel better about their bodies, and access the care they need. Understanding these dynamics is important because it shows that creating supportive environments can significantly improve the mental and physical health of gender-diverse youth. Who this helps: This benefits gender-diverse adolescents navigating menstruation and healthcare.

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This study looked at how pregnant individuals and parents with opioid use disorder (OUD) experience food assistance programs like WIC and SNAP, which are meant to help families get nutritious food. Researchers spoke with 24 participants, all of whom were receiving treatment for OUD and Medicaid benefits, and found that 95.8% were on medication for OUD. They identified seven main issues, including risky behaviors to get food, challenges with breastfeeding support, and the impact of food insecurity on health and recovery. Who this helps: This research helps families affected by opioid use disorder and their access to essential food resources.

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This study examined how a mother's Western-style diet affects the genes in the skeletal muscle of her offspring in Japanese macaques, even after they switch to a healthier diet. The researchers found that pups whose mothers ate a Western-style diet showed persistent changes in gene expression linked to poor metabolism, with these changes remaining significant for years; specifically, boys were more affected than girls. This is important because it suggests that a mother's diet can lead to long-term health risks for her children, including problems with insulin and metabolism. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those at risk for metabolic diseases due to parental diet choices.

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This study focused on how mothers with substance use disorder feel their addiction affects their parenting and their children's lives. Researchers interviewed 35 mothers in treatment and found that while many believed their substance use negatively impacted their children, they also faced significant challenges in being present as parents due to their struggles with addiction. Understanding this connection between parenting and substance use is crucial for creating effective support and treatment services. Who this helps: This helps mothers in recovery and their children.

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The study looked at how many women in treatment for opioid use disorder were still breastfeeding one month after giving birth. It found that 45% of these women were breastfeeding at that time, but many who stopped wished they could have continued longer, often due to concerns about milk supply. The findings highlight the need for better support systems to help these women successfully breastfeed by tackling both their breastfeeding goals and their mental health challenges. Who this helps: This helps mothers in treatment for opioid use disorder and their infants.

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This study looked at how 14-3-3 proteins affect the immune cells in the brain, called microglia, in response to a substance that triggers inflammation. The researchers found that when 14-3-3 protein levels were reduced, there was a significant increase in inflammatory activity from the microglia, including a 100% rise in activity markers and increased phagocytosis, while their ability to move towards damage was hindered. This is important because it highlights the role of 14-3-3 proteins in controlling inflammation in brain diseases, suggesting they could be potential targets for new treatments. Who this helps: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

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This study examined a specific protein called 14-3-3θ and how its chemical changes affect interactions with other proteins in the brain. Researchers found that a particular modification (phosphorylation at S232) decreased the number of proteins that interact with 14-3-3θ, leading to slower movement of important cellular structures in neurons. This finding is significant because it suggests that these changes might contribute to problems with protein clearance in diseases like Parkinson’s and dementia. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson’s disease and dementia, as well as doctors treating these conditions.

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This study looked at how well a clinical support system (CDS) worked for managing high blood pressure in patients with chronic kidney disease. Researchers found eight problems with the system, mainly caused by mistakes in how the alerts were designed and set up. Keeping a close eye on these alerts and getting feedback from doctors is crucial to improve their performance, which can help avoid unnecessary complications for patients and allow doctors to trust these systems more. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic kidney disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at how much radiation the thyroid absorbs in older patients receiving a specific imaging agent called 123 I-Ioflupane without blocking the thyroid gland. Researchers found that the average radiation dose to the thyroid was 13.6 milligrays, much lower than the risk threshold of 50 milligrays recommended for thyroid blocking. This is important because it suggests that elderly patients may not need thyroid blocking when using this imaging method, which can help avoid potential iodine-related thyroid problems. Who this helps: This findings benefit elderly patients undergoing thyroid imaging.

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This study looked at how pregnant women feel about starting methadone treatment for opioid use disorder in a hospital setting. Researchers spoke with 30 women and found that they faced various challenges and support during their treatment, which suggests there are ways to improve how hospitals help these patients. Improving treatment engagement is important because it can lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and their babies. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women struggling with opioid use disorder.

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Researchers studied the impact of a computerized system designed to help doctors manage high blood pressure in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). They found that patients whose doctors used the new system had a greater average drop in blood pressure compared to those who received standard care, with a change of -14.6 mm Hg versus -11.7 mm Hg. This matters because better blood pressure management can reduce serious health risks for these patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic kidney disease.

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This study looked at how women receiving treatment for addiction to opioids view their primary care services. Researchers spoke with 27 women and found that they appreciate coordinated care and strong relationships with their doctors, but face obstacles like feeling judged by healthcare providers, needing childcare, and having trouble accessing services due to location and time constraints. Improving primary care by addressing these barriers can lead to better health outcomes for these women. Who this helps: This helps women in treatment for opioid use disorder.

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This study looked at how a mother’s diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding affects the muscle genes of their young. Researchers found that young monkeys whose mothers ate a high-calorie Western-style diet (WSD) had significant changes in muscle gene activity related to insulin signaling, regardless of whether the mothers were thin or obese. These changes may increase the risk of conditions like insulin resistance and liver disease in the offspring, even if they switch to a healthier diet later on. Who this helps: This information benefits researchers, healthcare providers, and parents concerned about nutrition during pregnancy.

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This study looked at the effects of the diabetes medication metformin when taken by pregnant primates early in pregnancy. The researchers found that when metformin was administered, the drug built up in the fetuses' bodies and was linked to growth restrictions, with some fetuses weighing significantly less than normal (an average of only 248 grams). Additionally, the kidneys of the fetuses showed abnormal development, although they did not appear to be functionally impaired. Who this helps: This research is important for doctors and patients considering metformin use during pregnancy, as it highlights potential risks to fetal development.

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Researchers studied a massive increase in toxic algae along the Bering Strait, which has become worse due to climate change. These harmful organisms can cause serious illnesses like paralytic shellfish poisoning. This is important because it threatens seafood safety and the health of people who rely on fishing in the region. Who this helps: This helps fishermen and coastal communities relying on safe seafood.

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This study focused on creating an informative brochure for pregnant women struggling with opioid use disorders, outlining their treatment options. Researchers gathered feedback from 19 healthcare providers about what information should be included in the brochure, such as the benefits and risks of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). The findings revealed key topics to cover, helping to ensure that the brochure is useful for guiding conversations about treatment choices for these women. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women with opioid use disorders and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at how a Western-style diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding affects the cells that produce insulin in young monkeys. Researchers found that while there were no significant changes in the maturity of these insulin-producing cells, the cells from three-year-old monkeys exposed to this diet had more of a key protein related to cell function. The study also noted that the shape of the mitochondria, which help produce energy for insulin secretion, became more fragmented with age, indicating a possible increase in the cells' ability to adapt to metabolic needs. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk for diabetes, as it explores the effects of maternal diet on insulin production in offspring.

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This study looked at the social support available to pregnant women with opioid use disorder (OUD) and found that many had very little support during and after pregnancy. Out of 34 participants, only about 53% felt they had enough support, and those with less support showed strong interest in using doulas—trained professionals who provide assistance during pregnancy and childbirth. This lack of support is concerning because these women face a higher risk of relapse after childbirth, making it important to integrate doula services into healthcare for better outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women with opioid use disorder and their families.

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This study looked at the shells of clams and oysters in a California estuary to understand how much nitrogen from fertilizers has been entering the water over time. Researchers found that the composition of nitrogen in these shells showed clear differences based on how much fertilizer was used in the surrounding area, indicating significant changes in pollution levels over the last 1,000 years. This information is important because it helps us understand the impact of agricultural practices on coastal ecosystems. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and policymakers working to address pollution from agriculture.

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This study looked at the experiences of people in Philadelphia who are trying to access treatment for opioid use disorder and the challenges they face. Researchers spoke with 70 individuals across different groups, including men and women of various backgrounds, and found that the assessment process for starting treatment is often frustrating and difficult, which delays care. Many participants mentioned that issues like housing and financial stability create additional barriers to getting help, highlighting the need for more supportive programs and staff with lived experience to improve treatment access and effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with opioid use disorder and the healthcare providers looking to support them.

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This study examined two year-long leadership training programs established in 2017 for mid-career faculty at academic medical centers. The programs focus on hands-on, real-world learning, helping faculty develop leadership skills that they can use immediately while also fostering collaboration among diverse professionals. This training is crucial because it cultivates future leaders within the organization and promotes a culture of leadership tailored to the specific needs of the institution. Who this helps: This benefits faculty members looking to advance their careers and improve their leadership skills.

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This study looked at a specific part of the OC1 gene that influences how it works and its role in developing insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The researchers found that changes in this gene are linked to the risk of diabetes. This matters because understanding how this gene affects diabetes can lead to better prevention and treatment strategies. Who this helps: Patients at risk of diabetes.

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This research studied a new method for preparing fetal pancreatic cells from non-human primates for detailed analysis of their genetic and metabolic information. The team successfully used a process that keeps the cells stable while gathering valuable data, which helps in understanding how metabolism affects cell function and identity over time. This approach allows researchers to analyze complex biological samples more effectively, leading to better insights into cellular behavior. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying cell development and function in various medical fields.

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This study looked at how well certain diabetes medications, known as GLP-1 pathway drugs, work for different patients with Type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that using a traditional model to analyze health records from over 7,800 patients showed that those with higher HbA1C levels before treatment generally responded better to the drugs. Additionally, among younger women taking these medications, those also using NSAIDs saw a larger decrease in blood sugar levels (0.82% reduction) compared to those not using them (0.28% reduction), which is significant for treatment decisions. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients with Type 2 diabetes by providing insights into personalized treatment options.

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This study looked at how a receptor called EP3 affects insulin production in pancreatic cells of mice that were fed a high-fat diet, which mimics conditions of obesity and type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that when the EP3 receptor was specifically removed from pancreatic cells, insulin secretion improved somewhat, but the cells still struggled to produce enough insulin over time. After 26 weeks, these modified cells secreted less insulin overall compared to their healthy counterparts, highlighting serious dysfunction in insulin production. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 2 diabetes by identifying a potential target for new treatments.

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This study looked at food insecurity and its relationship to being overweight or obese among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander adolescents aged 12 to 17 in the United States. It found that 33.5% of these adolescents were either overweight (19.1%) or obese (14.4%), while 8.1% faced low food security and 8.5% faced very low food security. Importantly, teens from families enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) were 77% less likely to be overweight or obese, highlighting the positive impact of such assistance. Who this helps: This helps adolescents from Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities and their families.

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This study looked at what parents know and think about the HPV vaccine, which can prevent certain cancers, including cancers in the genitals and throat. Researchers interviewed 31 parents and found that many didn't understand the vaccine’s benefits, especially for boys and for preventing throat cancers. Since parents trust pediatricians as key sources of information, it’s crucial for doctors to educate families about the vaccine and address their concerns. Who this helps: Patients and their families, particularly parents of children and adolescents.

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Researchers studied how a high-fat, Western-style diet consumed by mother macaques during pregnancy and nursing affected their offspring's insulin production. They found that offspring raised on this diet showed significantly increased insulin secretion—both at rest and when stimulated by glucose—compared to those who switched to this diet only after weaning. This matters because these early changes in insulin function could set the stage for future health issues, like diabetes, in the offspring. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers who treat patients at risk for metabolic diseases.

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The CHAMPS study examined whether group well child care improves health for mothers in treatment for opioid use disorder and their children compared to regular individual care. It involved 108 mother-child pairs, divided into groups to receive either group care at a treatment center or individual pediatric care from a nearby clinic. The results will help determine if this group approach leads to better health outcomes and more satisfaction among these families. Who this helps: This benefits mothers with opioid use disorder and their children.

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This study focused on improving knowledge and confidence about men’s health issues among fraternity members by using a new curriculum. Participants, totaling 189 students from six fraternities, watched a 45-minute presentation and filled out surveys before and after. The results showed that after the presentation, their knowledge about men’s health increased significantly, and those who felt more confident were more likely to seek help for health concerns, even though just knowing more didn’t lead to more confidence. Who this helps: This benefits fraternity members by encouraging them to understand and address their health concerns more effectively.

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This study looked at how to improve the alerts given to doctors treating patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and high blood pressure. Researchers created five specific guidelines that could help identify these patients and estimated that, in their primary care network, 9,081 out of about 105,000 patients had stage 3 or 4 CKD, with nearly half of them also having uncontrolled high blood pressure. They found that limiting alerts to one per patient would reduce the overall burden on doctors, making it easier for them to focus on patient care. Who this helps: This helps doctors provide better care to patients with chronic kidney disease and high blood pressure.

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This study looked at how many pregnant and parenting women undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) face food insecurity, which means they don’t have enough reliable access to affordable food. Out of 91 women surveyed, 32% reported low food security and 33% reported very low food security, both linked to higher levels of psychological distress, such as depression and anxiety. The findings highlight a significant lack of access to healthy food among these women, which could negatively affect both their and their children's development. Who this helps: This helps women in treatment for opioid use disorder and their families.

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This study looked at how group well child care (WCC) can help mothers with opioid use disorder (OUD) and their young children. Researchers found that 68% of parents were likely to participate, and they identified several benefits like improved support and coordination, as well as challenges such as concerns about privacy. Understanding these factors is important because it helps clinics design better support systems for families dealing with OUD. Who this helps: This helps mothers with opioid use disorder and their young children.

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This study looked at how a protein called CCN2 affects the growth of insulin-producing cells (called β-cells) when those cells are under stress from factors like a high-fat diet. Researchers found that while CCN2 didn’t help the β-cells grow when they were already healthy, it did lead to a significant increase in β-cell mass when the cells were stressed for 10 weeks on a high-fat diet. This is important because it highlights that CCN2 could be a key player in enhancing insulin production in the context of stress, which could offer new ways to treat type 2 diabetes. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at how a Western-style diet eaten by mother Japanese macaques during pregnancy affects their baby monkeys' muscle health later in life. The researchers found that even after switching to a healthier diet, the offspring showed increased body fat, reduced muscle function, and poorer insulin sensitivity compared to those not exposed to the Western diet. Specifically, they had lower muscle energy production and higher levels of unhealthy fats, suggesting that early diet can have lasting negative effects on metabolism. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those at risk of insulin resistance and related metabolic issues.

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This research looked at how well different treatments work for people with acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS), a condition affecting the wrist and hand. Out of 197 patients studied, those with injuries (traumatic cases) recovered better than those without injuries (atraumatic cases). Treatment options included surgery, conservative methods like rest and therapy, or a mix of both, but the type of treatment didn't change the recovery rate, and many patients (47%) started with conservative treatment before having surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with carpal tunnel syndrome by providing insights into treatment effectiveness.