MARK A. MYERS, M.D.

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This study looked at how effective two medications, Simparica and Simparica Trio, are at killing a specific type of tick called Haemaphysalis longicornis, which is now found in parts of the U.S. Researchers tested the medications on 60 dogs and found that both were very effective; Simparica reduced tick numbers by 100% for up to 39 days and still showed an 82.4% reduction after 65 days, while Simparica Trio also showed similar high effectiveness, with reductions of up to 100% for up to 51 days. This matters because controlling tick infestations helps protect pets from diseases that ticks can carry. Who this helps: This research benefits pet owners and veterinarians.

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This study examined how stress and social support affect smoking behaviors among LGBTQ+ adolescents using a smartphone survey method called ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Researchers involved 50 participants aged 15-19, who primarily used vaporized tobacco (94%) and cannabis products (78%). The results showed that participants found the Puff Break EMA protocol easy to use and beneficial for understanding their smoking habits, with high ratings for feasibility (4.43 out of 5), acceptability (4.15), and appropriateness (4.46). Who this helps: This research is valuable for LGBTQ+ adolescents looking to understand and reduce their smoking behaviors.

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This study looked at whether leadership skills learned in a third-year military training program (Operation Gunpowder) predict performance in a fourth-year program (Operation Bushmaster) for medical students. Researchers measured leadership using a standardized assessment, finding that scores from Gunpowder were linked to scores from Bushmaster, especially in areas like Leadership Transcendent Skills, which was the strongest predictor of success. This is important because it shows that certain leadership abilities acquired early in medical training can lead to better performance in real-world situations later on. Who this helps: Medical students and educators focused on developing effective leadership skills.

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This study looked at why post-9/11 veterans move from military healthcare to the Veterans Health Administration after leaving the military. Out of nearly 1.6 million veterans analyzed, 78% switched to VHA care, with those suffering from conditions like schizophrenia or multiple health issues having a higher chance of making this transition. These findings highlight the need for better support and coordination for veterans, especially those facing complex health challenges, to ensure they receive the care they need. Who this helps: This benefits veterans, particularly those with serious health conditions and multiple diagnoses.

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This study examined how male and female patients with treatment-resistant depression respond to intranasal esketamine, a new fast-acting antidepressant. Researchers analyzed data from five clinical trials and found that women showed more improvement in depression scores compared to men, with a significant increase in their chances of responding to treatment. For example, women had better reductions in symptoms like sadness and detachment, especially toward the end of the trials, while men experienced quicker relief from sadness within just two days of treatment. Who this helps: This research helps patients with treatment-resistant depression, particularly by tailoring treatments based on gender differences.

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This study looked at how different types of epilepsy in veterans relate to problems with pain, sleep, and dissociation after they served in Iraq or Afghanistan. It found that those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), multiple injuries, or chronic illnesses were more likely to have pain issues, while those with multiple injuries or bipolar/substance use issues had more sleep problems. The study revealed that difficulties caused by epilepsy were the biggest factor affecting these issues. Who this helps: This helps veterans dealing with epilepsy and their healthcare providers.

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The study examined a conservation planning project led by the Xeni Gwet'in First Nation in British Columbia, where they developed a wildlife management strategy for their area. The process involved researching the land's history, gathering data, and prioritizing actions, highlighting both benefits and challenges. This work is important because it provides valuable methods and insights for other Indigenous communities and organizations interested in conservation. Who this helps: This benefits Indigenous communities, conservationists, and governments looking to support Indigenous-led environmental initiatives.

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This study examined a gene therapy using a substance called Neurotrophin 3 (NT-3) to treat a condition called Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2A (CMT2A) in mice. The researchers found that by delivering NT-3, the treated mice showed a significant improvement in grip strength and their ability to balance on a rod, with better muscle health and reduced signs of nerve damage compared to untreated mice. This matters because it shows promise for developing effective therapies for CMT2A in humans. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2A and their doctors.

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This study looked at how dextrose, a sugar used in IV solutions, affects the measurement of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in diluted samples. Researchers found that when mAbs are mixed with a 5% dextrose solution, the presence of glucose degradation products can disrupt accurate protein measurements, particularly at low concentrations of 0.01 to 1.0 mg/mL. By using a different testing method called Protein-A affinity chromatography, they achieved more accurate results, showing that the original method used could be misleading due to dextrose interference. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working with monoclonal antibody treatments by providing a more reliable way to measure these important drugs.

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This study looked at how well a procedure called a therapeutic lumbar puncture works in treating children with idiopathic syringomyelia, a condition causing painful symptoms without a known cause. Out of 31 children treated, 23% saw significant long-term improvement, 42% had temporary relief, and 10% resolved their symptoms after multiple treatments. The research indicates that this procedure might be safer and more effective for those with higher fluid pressure in their spines. Who this helps: This helps children suffering from syringomyelia and their doctors.

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This study looked at a muscle disease called sporadic inclusion body myopathy (sIBM), which affects older people and gets worse over time. Researchers found that higher levels of a specific RNA called NORAD and a protein called Pumilio (PUM2) were linked to more severe disease in muscle samples. In a mouse model, they also discovered that reducing NORAD made the disease progress faster, suggesting that NORAD helps protect muscles from damage. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with sporadic inclusion body myopathy and their doctors by providing insights into the disease's progression.

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This study focused on appendiceal cancer, a rare type of cancer often diagnosed late and with varying characteristics that affect treatment outcomes. Researchers analyzed DNA from blood and tumor tissues of 73 patients to identify genetic mutations and their associations with tumor features and patient survival. They found that a type of DNA from blood samples matched tumor DNA with a 98.4% accuracy, revealing common mutations like KRAS in 41% of cases and TP53 in 30% of cases, which are important for understanding how aggressive the cancer is and guiding treatment choices. Who this helps: This research benefits patients by improving the accuracy of their cancer diagnoses and treatment planning.

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This study looked at how factors like fatigue and anxiety affect pain levels in U.S. service members and veterans who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI). Researchers found that among 1,577 participants, fatigue and anxiety were major contributors to how much pain interfered with daily life, while emotional control appeared to help reduce pain interference. This is important because it shows that treating pain effectively may require addressing these non-pain issues as part of a more comprehensive approach to care. Who this helps: This helps service members and veterans dealing with chronic pain after mild traumatic brain injuries.

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This research looked at how two different approaches—Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Health Education (HE)—help smokers who are not ready to quit. The study found that when smokers expressed "learning talk" (talk about understanding health information) during sessions, it was a good indication they might try to change their smoking habits later. Specifically, the study was based on sessions with a total of 310 smokers, including 255 from a diverse low-income community and 55 veterans with mental health issues. Who this helps: This benefits unmotivated smokers and the professionals trying to support them in quitting.

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This study looked at how the brain's outer layer, or cortex, is organized in toddlers aged 1 to 3 years compared to newborns and adults. Researchers found that the way these brain areas are separated in toddlers is more similar to adults than newborns, which means that as children grow, their brain organization changes significantly. This research is important because understanding brain development can improve how we study and treat conditions affecting young children. Who this helps: This helps parents, doctors, and researchers working with young children.

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This study looked at the health conditions of post-9/11 Veterans with epilepsy to see how different patterns of related health issues affected their outcomes and likelihood of dying. Researchers found six main health patterns among these Veterans, including groups with PTSD, anxiety, chronic diseases, and substance use disorders. Each group faced unique risks, with accidents being the leading cause of death, followed by suicide and cancer. Understanding these patterns can help doctors create better care plans that address both epilepsy and other health concerns. Who this helps: This research benefits Veterans with epilepsy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how machine learning can predict changes in the growth of the facial structure and teeth in young people from ages 11 to 18. Researchers analyzed X-rays from 301 subjects and found that their models could accurately predict future growth in important measurements, with some predictions as precise as within 2 mm or 2 degrees, like 80% accuracy for the angle between the maxilla (upper jaw) and cranial base. This matters because it can help doctors understand how a child's facial structure might change as they grow, enabling better planning for orthodontic treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients needing orthodontic care, particularly young teenagers.

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This study looked at how certain brain cells respond to medications that help reduce appetite and treat obesity, specifically focusing on two types of neurons in the brainstem. Researchers found that one type of neuron (AP neurons) is crucial for both the effects that make you feel less hungry and for the unpleasant feelings that sometimes come with these medications, while another type (NTS neurons) mainly manages normal eating habits. This is important because understanding how these neurons work together can help improve the use of weight-loss drugs while minimizing their negative side effects. Who this helps: This research benefits patients using weight-loss medications and doctors who prescribe them.

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This research paper looks at the use of blood pressure kiosks in public spaces, which allow people to check their own blood pressure without professional help. After reviewing 54 studies, the authors found that these kiosks measure blood pressure very similarly to traditional office measurements, with a difference of less than 1 mmHg for systolic and diastolic readings. However, the accuracy compared to home and daytime measurements was less reliable, with differences as high as 8.1 mmHg. This is important because it highlights both the potential benefits of kiosk blood pressure checks for early detection of hypertension and the need for better validation and standards for their use. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by providing a convenient way to monitor blood pressure in public, potentially leading to earlier hypertension diagnosis and management.

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This study looked at a new gene therapy to help mice with a condition similar to multiple sclerosis (MS). The researchers found that after delivering a gene that produces a substance called neurotrophin 3 (NT-3), the mice showed better overall health, improved muscle strength, and less inflammation in their brains and spinal cords. This matters because it suggests that NT-3 could help protect nerve cells and improve recovery in conditions like MS. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple sclerosis and similar neurodegenerative diseases.

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This study examines how point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can be used to quickly check the aorta for problems like aneurysms and dissections, conditions that can be life-threatening if not diagnosed swiftly. The researchers found that using POCUS allows for faster and more accurate diagnoses compared to traditional methods like CT scans, which can delay treatment for patients. This is important because timely diagnosis can greatly reduce the chances of death from these serious conditions. Who this helps: This benefits emergency doctors and their patients who may have aortic issues.

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This study looks at a rare case of follicular lymphoma in the gallbladder of an 82-year-old man who came in with severe abdominal pain and weight loss. After several imaging tests, doctors found a suspicious mass in his gallbladder, confirmed the cancer diagnosis through a needle biopsy, and then operated to remove it. Despite some complications after surgery, the patient did not have a recurrence of the lymphoma, and the research highlighted only eight other similar cases, showing how uncommon this type of cancer in the gallbladder is. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients facing rare and unusual cancer diagnoses.

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This study looked at how endotoxemia (a serious immune response to infection) affects the breakdown of fat in dairy cows’ bodies. Researchers found that endotoxemia led to increased inflammation in fat tissue, reduced fat breakdown (lipolysis), and changes in certain receptors that help regulate this process. Specifically, they noted that lipolysis decreased by 24 hours after the endotoxin was introduced, which is problematic because cows need energy, especially during critical periods like giving birth. Who this helps: This research benefits dairy farmers and veterinarians by providing insights into managing the health of lactating cows during stressful periods.

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This study explores a new ultrasound technology called computed echo tomography (CET) to improve imaging of traumatic injuries in difficult environments, like battlefields. The researchers found that CET provided clear images in 90.8% of the tests performed on six volunteers, allowing better views of important body parts such as the brain and organs without interference from bones. This advancement matters because it can help diagnose injuries more accurately and efficiently, potentially saving lives in emergency situations. Who this helps: This helps patients with traumatic injuries and healthcare providers in emergency settings.

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This study looked at the reasons behind tobacco, nicotine, and cannabis use among LGBTQ+ adolescents aged 14 to 19. Researchers gathered data by having participants fill out surveys five times a day for two weeks to track their stress levels, social interactions, and cravings. They found that these factors might heavily influence when and why these adolescents use tobacco and other substances, which helps in understanding their unique challenges. Who this helps: This information benefits LGBTQ+ youth, health professionals, and policymakers focused on improving adolescent health.

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This study looked at a protein complex called SEL1L-HRD1 in nerve cells and its role in important metabolic processes. Researchers found that when this complex was removed in mice, it resulted in significant problems like growth delays and serious motor issues, leading to early death by about 9 weeks. These findings suggest that proper functioning of this protein complex is crucial for brain health and development, which could help explain certain severe neurological conditions in children. Who this helps: This helps patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families.

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This research looked at how often racial and ethnic data is included in studies of gliomas, a type of brain tumor. Out of 35 studies with over 5,600 patients, only 3 studies (about 8.6%) included any racial or ethnic information, and most samples (91.1%) were from White patients. This matters because better representation in research can lead to more effective treatments for all groups of patients, not just those who are predominantly studied. Who this helps: This helps patients from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds who are affected by gliomas.

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The study focused on how facial bristles develop in tawny frogmouth chicks. Researchers found that these chicks are born without bristles, which only appear after their eyes open and are fully developed when they start to feed on their own. This indicates that the bristles likely help the chicks hunt for food as they become more independent. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying bird development and behavior.

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This study looked at how a leftover chemical, dimethylformamide (DMF), affects the performance of a tool used to analyze monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which are crucial in treatments like cancer therapy. Researchers found that when high levels (1%-10%) of DMF were present in a specific product called NDSB-211, it led to poorer separation of different mAb variants during testing, making it harder to assess their quality. This is important because it can impact the reliability of tests that monitor the effectiveness and safety of antibody treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients who rely on monoclonal antibody therapies, ensuring they receive high-quality treatments.

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This study looked at two sisters who both have a genetic mutation (CDH1) that significantly increases their risk of developing hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) and breast cancer. They were diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast, a condition related to their genetic mutation, showing the need for genetic testing in families with numerous cancer cases. Despite knowing about their heightened risk for gastric cancer, the sisters chose to monitor their health with regular check-ups instead of surgery, highlighting the importance of personalized cancer care based on family history. Who this helps: This helps patients with a family history of cancer and their doctors by emphasizing the need for genetic testing and personalized monitoring.

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This study looked at a 69-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer who had two growing adrenal nodules found during imaging. Despite initial tests suggesting these nodules were noncancerous, surgery revealed they were actually metastatic breast cancer. This is important because it shows that even benign-looking adrenal masses in cancer patients can be malignant and emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and individualized treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps patients with a history of cancer and their doctors in managing potential complications.

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This study looked at how well workers in West Virginia's Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services understand and use person-centered, trauma-informed care (PCTIC) techniques. Interviews with 32 professionals from 19 organizations revealed significant knowledge gaps in areas like trauma understanding, behavior support, and access to mental health services. Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving the skills and effectiveness of workers who support trauma survivors in the community. Who this helps: This benefits direct service professionals and the trauma survivors they serve.

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Researchers compared the genetic material of two bacteria strains, DSM 8801 and N3, and found they were 99.9% similar, indicating they likely belong to the same species. The analysis revealed both strains have similar characteristics and share more than 95% genetic similarity, confirming their close relationship. This finding matters because it helps clarify the classification of these bacteria, which is important for understanding their roles in the environment and potential applications in medicine or biotechnology. Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers studying bacterial classifications and their uses.

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This study looked at how being a father during adolescence affects the mental health of young men, focusing on their risk of attempting suicide. Researchers found that adolescent fathers were 4.5 times more likely to report having tried to commit suicide compared to those who were not fathers. This is important because it highlights a significant risk to the mental health of young fathers, which needs to be addressed in support and prevention efforts. Who this helps: This helps young fathers and healthcare providers who work with them.

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This study looked at how a program that allows advanced medical students to teach each other prepares them for leadership roles in the military. Researchers collected feedback from 19 participants and found that peer teaching boosted their skills in leadership, communication, adaptability, and forming their professional identity. For example, they reported improvements in guiding others, handling stress, and making quick decisions in difficult situations, which are critical for their roles in the field. Who this helps: This benefits military medical students and those involved in their training.

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This study looked at a type of aggressive prostate cancer called castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and found that certain genetic changes, particularly in the YAP/TAZ pathway, are linked to a more dangerous stem cell-like subtype of the disease. The researchers analyzed tissue and blood samples from 500 cases and discovered that this stem cell-like subgroup shows more genetic variety and instability. They found that specific DNA alterations can predict the presence of this aggressive CRPC subtype with 79% accuracy, which could help doctors make better treatment decisions based on individual patient profiles. Who this helps: Patients with aggressive forms of prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study focused on creating a simple and affordable training tool for emergency doctors to help them accurately diagnose pediatric intussusception using point-of-care ultrasound. The researchers developed a new simulation model that makes it easier for doctors to learn how to identify this condition, which is important for prompt treatment. By improving training methods, this model aims to enhance the skills of emergency physicians and ultimately speed up diagnosis and care for affected children. Who this helps: This benefits emergency physicians and pediatric patients with intussusception.

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This study looked at how the oral health of patients impacts their recovery after open-heart surgery. It found that older patients (70 and up) with poor oral health scores had higher chances of developing infections after surgery, which led to longer hospital stays. Specifically, those with Ohio Health Assessment Tool (OHAT-J) scores of 5 or higher had a significant risk of infection and longer intensive care stays. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart surgery and their doctors by highlighting the importance of oral health in recovery.

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This study looked at how using leftover human body materials from anatomy classes helps train Pathologists' Assistant (PathA) students in examining surgical samples. The researchers found that training with these human materials was beneficial for the PathA students compared to using animal tissues. This approach not only enhanced the learning experience for PathA students but also improved the educational experience for anatomy course students who collected the specimens. Who this helps: Patients, doctors, and medical students.

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This study looked at how using ultrasound in emergency rooms can help doctors quickly identify heart problems related to a slow heartbeat, known as bradycardia. It found that recognizing specific heart wall movements through ultrasound can lead to faster and more effective care for patients, especially in urgent situations. By improving decision-making, this approach can be lifesaving in critical cases. Who this helps: Patients experiencing heart emergencies.

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This study looked at how feeling unsafe in their neighborhoods affects teenagers' chances of carrying a gun. Researchers found that kids who feel their neighborhoods are disordered are more likely to be exposed to violence, which in turn increases their likelihood of carrying a gun. Specifically, exposure to violence fully explains why neighborhood disorder leads to gun carrying. Who this helps: This information benefits teenagers living in unsafe areas and those working to reduce gun violence.

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This study focused on creating a telehealth clinic specifically for patients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a serious complication after certain types of transplants. They found that one-third of the 308 patient visits in 2022 were conducted online, helping to reach patients who lived far away or had difficulty traveling. The telehealth approach not only improved access to specialized care but also decreased patient distress, making it easier for a diverse group of patients to receive the help they needed. Who this helps: This benefits patients with GVHD, especially those living far from treatment centers.

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This paper looks at how using ultrasound at the bedside (called point-of-care ultrasound or POCUS) can help doctors quickly assess the aorta, especially for serious conditions like aneurysms and dissections. The study found that using POCUS speeds up diagnosis in cases where time is critical, potentially saving lives by allowing for faster treatment. This is important because delays in diagnosing these conditions can lead to high death rates. Who this helps: Patients with suspected aortic problems and emergency room doctors.

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This study looked at how much it costs to treat chronic headaches in veterans who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Researchers found over 141,000 veterans with different types of headaches related to TBI, and they discovered that the costs of care were very high. For example, the average cost for inpatient treatment of post-TBI migraines was nearly $27,700, while outpatient care averaged $61,400. This is important because it highlights the financial burden of treating these headaches and suggests that many veterans face tough challenges in managing their symptoms. Who this helps: This helps veterans suffering from chronic headaches after brain injuries and the healthcare providers treating them.

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Researchers studied a gene therapy called AAV1.tMCK.NT-3 to treat a type of nerve disorder known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth Type 4C (CMT4C) in mice. They found that after six months, the treated mice showed improved movement abilities, stronger grip, and better nerve function, indicating healthier nerve cells. This treatment also led to significant improvements in the surrounding myelin, the protective covering of nerves, suggesting that the therapy promotes nerve repair and regeneration. Who this helps: This helps patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Type 4C and their doctors.

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This study looks at how a new tobacco cessation program, called EMPACT-Us, can help low-income smokers quit smoking at Family Health Centers of San Diego. The program includes multiple support services and guides from patient navigators to help smokers access the resources they need. The research aims to show if this integrated approach increases the chances of quitting smoking among the 13,496 smokers receiving care at these centers. Who this helps: This helps low-income smokers seeking to quit and improve their health.

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This study looked at how the brain's functional networks develop in infants using advanced imaging techniques. Researchers created a way to measure individual brain patterns and found that even with a lot of data (up to 25 minutes of brain scans), each infant had unique network maps that didn't plateau, meaning more data may be needed for accurate readings. These findings are important because they could lead to better understanding of infant brain development, which could help predict future health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps infants at risk for developmental issues, their families, and healthcare providers.