MARK S. POTENZA, MD

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This study looked at how well a non-invasive test called the tear break-up time (NIBUT) reflects the discomfort that patients with Dry Eye Disease report. Researchers analyzed data from 295 patients and found that NIBUT measurements often did not align with patient-reported symptoms, except in cases of severe discomfort. Specifically, those with very high symptom scores had a slight relationship with NIBUT values, indicating that while the test can assess tear stability, it alone is not enough to diagnose dry eye conditions. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors who treat patients with dry eye symptoms by clarifying the role of NIBUT in diagnosis and treatment.

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This study focused on Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a serious eye infection that can lead to vision loss. Over three years, researchers at a hospital in Northern Italy found that out of 39 patients suspected of having AK, 11 were confirmed cases. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, the study showed that the new real-time PCR method was 100% effective in identifying new cases, compared to 92% for traditional culture methods, which were less effective in detecting relapses. These improvements in diagnosis can lead to timely treatment, reducing the need for surgeries and improving patients' quality of life. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for Acanthamoeba keratitis, especially contact lens users.

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Researchers tested a new waterproof treatment for Carparo stone, which is easily damaged by weather and water. They found that this treatment significantly reduces the stone's water absorption, achieving a contact angle of over 140 degrees, meaning water beads up instead of soaking in. This is important because it can help preserve the stone's appearance and durability over time, even after exposure to rain and sunlight. Who this helps: This helps architects and builders who work with Carparo stone in outdoor projects.

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Researchers developed new compounds that aim to fight cancer by targeting a specific enzyme called mPGES-1, which is linked to cancer growth. They found that some of these compounds (specifically 1f, 2b, 2c, and 2d) are effective in reducing mPGES-1 activity at very low concentrations and also inhibit another enzyme linked to inflammation. This is important because many tumors have high levels of mPGES-1, and these findings suggest that these compounds could play a role in developing new cancer treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with colorectal cancer and other tumor types.

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This study looked at how the tiny organisms living on the eye's surface might affect the success of corneal transplants. Researchers found that an imbalance in these microorganisms, known as dysbiosis, could weaken the eye's immune system and lead to higher chances of transplant rejection. Understanding this connection is important because it may lead to new treatments, like using beneficial bacteria to improve transplant outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing corneal transplants and their doctors.

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This study looked at using an automated cell counter to measure specific types of cells in human tears, which can help detect inflammation and immune responses. Researchers collected tears from 31 patients and found an average of about 1.3 million cells per tear sample and were able to measure inflammation markers HLA-DR and CD3 with percentages of 43.6% and 25%. This method is important because it makes it easier to analyze very small tear samples, which can be useful for diagnosing various health conditions. Who this helps: Patients who need quick and easy testing for eye and systemic health issues.

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This study looked at how childhood trauma affects a specific brain receptor called cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R). Researchers found that adults with a history of childhood trauma had about 11% lower availability of CB1R in their brains compared to healthy adults without trauma, with even larger reductions in specific brain areas like the amygdala (about 14%) and hippocampus (about 15%). Understanding these differences is important because they may indicate changes in the brain that are linked to the long-term effects of trauma. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have experienced childhood trauma and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the genetics of nicotine dependence in over 61,000 people from different backgrounds to better understand its relationship with other issues like cannabis and opioid use disorders, lung cancer, and mental health disorders. The researchers found that certain genetic markers were strongly linked to nicotine dependence, with significant numbers indicating these connections: one marker had a very strong association with a statistical value of 1.27E-11. This matters because understanding these genetic links can lead to better treatments for nicotine dependence and related health issues. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with nicotine dependence and healthcare providers looking for better ways to support them.

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This study examined how patients with inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) are at a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC), especially at younger ages than the general population. It found that conditions like Diamond-Blackfan anemia and Fanconi anemia show a strong link to CRC, highlighting the need for regular screening for these patients. Recognizing this risk is important for improving early detection and treatment options, ultimately aiming to reduce the burden of cancer in this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This helps patients with inherited bone marrow disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how infectious keratitis, an eye infection, is diagnosed and treated at a specialized medical center, especially focusing on the role of lab testing to improve patient outcomes. Researchers reviewed 220 patients and found that 64% had bacterial infections; overall, lab testing was done for 107 cases with a success rate of about 76%. Better lab results were linked to improved vision and fewer surgeries, emphasizing the importance of quick diagnosis and treatment, especially for those with contact lens use or eye injuries. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with eye infections, as well as their doctors by guiding better treatment approaches.

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This study focused on a new protein called Tc323 that could help diagnose Chagas disease, a condition caused by a parasite that leads to serious health issues over time. Researchers found that this protein is recognized by a specific antibody from patients with heart problems caused by chronic Chagas disease, showing that it could be useful for distinguishing between different types of infections. The presence of Tc323 was only detected in blood samples from patients infected with this parasite, making it a valuable tool for doctors in regions where multiple infections are common. Who this helps: Patients with Chagas disease and their healthcare providers.

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In this study, researchers explored a group of chemical compounds called benzothiazole-based inhibitors to see if they could be used to target certain proteins linked to inflammation and cancer. They initially found that four compounds didn't work well against their original target but discovered that three of them successfully inhibited a protein called soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) by up to 70% at a specific concentration. One compound, in particular, was identified as a strong inhibitor with a low effective concentration. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who are dealing with inflammation and cancer by potentially leading to new treatment options.

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This study looked at a new blood test for diagnosing chronic Chagas disease, using specific proteins called TcD3 and TcD6. The test showed high accuracy: TcD3 detected the disease 90.8% of the time, while TcD6 did even better at 93.1%. This is important because better diagnostic methods can lead to timely treatment and improved health outcomes for people with Chagas disease. Who this helps: Patients with chronic Chagas disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new group of compounds that can reduce the production of harmful substances involved in inflammation, specifically Prostaglandin E (PGE) and leukotrienes. Researchers tested about 4.2 million potential molecules and found four new compounds that significantly inhibit PGE production and impacted leukotriene levels in cell tests. One of these compounds worked so well in mice that it showed effects similar to a common anti-inflammatory drug, reducing the movement of immune cells related to inflammation significantly. Who this helps: This research benefits patients dealing with inflammatory conditions by potentially providing new treatment options.

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This study looked at how different patterns of screen media activity (SMA), especially focusing on video use, affect the development of children and adolescents aged 9-10 years. Researchers found that about 27% of participants engaged in high-frequency video use, and this group showed poorer cognitive performance, more behavioral problems, and altered brain activity compared to those with lower video usage. These findings highlight the need for public health strategies to limit excessive screen time to foster healthier development in youth. Who this helps: This benefits parents, educators, and healthcare professionals working with children and adolescents.

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This study looked at how different types of air pollution particles, like those from diesel exhaust and brake dust, affect lung cells. The researchers found that all five types of particles tested harmed the cells, with brake dust being the most toxic and pellet ashes causing oxidative stress. Understanding these differences is important for creating better regulations to protect lung health. Who this helps: This helps patients with respiratory issues and policymakers working on air quality regulations.

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This study looked at the needs of early-career addiction medicine professionals around the world to understand what training, research, and mentorship they require. Researchers surveyed 110 professionals and found significant gaps, including a lack of standardized training and mentorship programs, as well as limited research funding. Improving these areas is essential for developing the next generation of experts in addiction medicine and advancing the field as a whole. Who this helps: This benefits early-career addiction medicine professionals and ultimately the patients they serve.

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This study focused on improving how researchers report on experiments that use brain scans to understand substance use disorders and how people react to drug cues. The researchers developed a checklist of 38 important reporting items, with only 44.7% of these items being addressed in recent studies, showing significant gaps in how information is shared among scientists. This matters because better reporting leads to more reliable research results, which can ultimately improve treatment options for patients. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, clinicians, and patients dealing with substance use disorders.

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This study explored a new way to find effective drugs by re-evaluating existing compounds that previously didn’t work well against a specific target. Researchers tested 190 compounds and found that some quinazolinedione-based drugs, which had poor performance against a protein called Hsp90, showed potential when tested against a different target, soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). This approach highlights an efficient method for discovering new uses for existing drugs, speeding up the development process. Who this helps: This helps researchers and pharmaceutical companies looking to improve drug discovery.

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This study looked at a protein called TcCAL1 in a parasite that causes disease. The researchers found that when they increased the amount of this protein, the parasite had a hard time transforming into a more infectious form, which dropped the transformation rate by a significant amount. However, this same protein helped the parasite invade host cells better, leading to more infections. Understanding how this protein works is important for finding new ways to treat infections caused by parasites. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of parasitic infections.

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This study focused on an antibody called A2R1 found in patients with chronic Chagas heart disease, specifically its ability to recognize certain proteins from the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi as well as a protein in human brain tissue. Researchers discovered that A2R1 targets a specific protein from the parasite that is about 50 kDa in size and also reacts with tubulin, a protein in human nerves, indicating a possible link between the infection and neurological issues. This is important because it highlights how the immune response to the parasite might affect the nervous system of infected individuals, helping to explain some of the disease's symptoms. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Chagas disease and healthcare providers seeking to understand its impacts better.

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This study looked at a compound called celastrol, which comes from a traditional medicinal plant, to see how it reduces inflammation in the body. Researchers found that celastrol effectively blocked the key enzyme responsible for producing pro-inflammatory substances, reducing their levels significantly, and instead promoted the creation of beneficial molecules that help resolve inflammation. In lab tests with mice, celastrol led to a dramatic decrease in harmful compounds while increasing protective ones, suggesting it may be a valuable treatment option for inflammatory diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients with inflammatory diseases and their doctors.

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This study looked at the safety and biological effects of steviol, a compound from the Stevia plant known for being a low-toxicity sugar substitute. Using a special computer tool, researchers identified how steviol and its five modified versions interact with proteins related to cancer and inflammation. They found that while steviol promotes activity in a key protein called FXR, the modified versions do not, suggesting that steviol is still safe to use. Who this helps: Patients looking for safe sugar alternatives and doctors recommending dietary options.

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This study focused on developing new compounds to inhibit a specific enzyme (mPGES-1) that plays a role in cancer and inflammation. Researchers identified two promising compounds, 3-phenylpropanoic acid and 2-(thiophen-2-yl)acetic acid, that effectively inhibited this enzyme at low concentrations. The most effective compound led to cell cycle arrest and an increase in cell death after 48 and 72 hours, indicating its potential to fight cancer. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients and potentially those with inflammatory conditions.

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This study looked for new anti-inflammatory drugs by examining a specific type of chemical called 1,2,4-oxadiazoles, which can block the production of substances that cause inflammation. Researchers found three promising compounds, two of which effectively blocked a key protein involved in inflammation, and one that reduced inflammation in an animal model. This matters because these new compounds could lead to safer and more effective treatments for conditions related to inflammation. Who this helps: This helps patients with inflammatory diseases, as well as their doctors seeking better treatment options.

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The researchers studied how a parasite changes from one form (epimastigotes) to a more infectious form (metacyclic trypomastigotes) in a laboratory setting. They found that by using a special two-layer growth medium with added human blood, they could directly produce the infectious form without any intermediate stages, even from cultures that had been in the original form for years. This finding is important because it could lead to better understanding and treatment options for diseases caused by this parasite. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers working on treatments for parasitic infections.

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This study explored a new way to treat waste paper using tiny particles called nanocrystalline cellulose (CNC) mixed with silver nanoparticles to strengthen and protect the paper. The treatment helped prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi like Aspergillus niger while improving the paper's toughness and stretch. This is important because it offers a sustainable method to preserve paper without changing its appearance, potentially extending the life of important documents and historical records. Who this helps: This benefits libraries, archivists, and anyone who wants to preserve paper materials, including historical documents and books.

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This study looked at a new 3D printed material made from silver nanoparticles and two natural substances that can fight germs and kill cancer cells. It found that a concentration of 10 mg/mL of silver nanoparticles was effective at stopping bacterial growth, and this ability lasted through at least three uses of the material. Understanding how this material works is important because it could help create better treatments for infections and cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with infections and cancer.

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This study looked at a specific enzyme called mPGES-1 that plays a role in inflammation and cancer. Researchers developed a new chemical compound and identified three promising candidates that effectively inhibit this enzyme, achieving inhibition levels of 1.4, 0.7, and 1.7 micromolar. These compounds also showed the ability to kill cancer cells, with effective doses of 28.5, 18.1, and 19.2 micromolar, which is significant for potential cancer treatments. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients and researchers working on new cancer therapies.

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This research focused on understanding how the coating of graphene nano-platelets (GNP) affects their thermal diffusivity, which is how quickly heat spreads through the material. The study found that samples without coating allowed some light to pass through due to their porous structure, affecting heat measurements, while coated samples showed more accurate results. Specifically, the uncoated samples had a higher reflectance, indicating that their temperature readings were influenced by light reflection rather than heat conduction. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers who work with materials that need precise heat transfer properties.

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This study focused on producing important proteins, called antigens, from the Trypanosoma cruzi organism, which causes Chagas disease, using another organism, Leishmania tarentolae, as a factory. The researchers showed that using Leishmania tarentolae can efficiently create these antigens, providing a way to produce them in large amounts with high quality. This is important because having these antigens can improve the diagnosis and treatment options for Chagas disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from Chagas disease and the doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at new types of drugs that target a part of a protein called Hsp90, which plays a key role in cancer development. The researchers found two new compounds that successfully killed cancer cells and reduced levels of harmful proteins without causing negative side effects, specifically avoiding a heat shock response that other treatments trigger. This is important because these new drugs could offer a more effective way to treat cancer without the usual drawbacks associated with current therapies. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients seeking better treatment options.

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This research discusses the decision to include gaming disorder (GD) in the 11th version of the International Classification of Diseases, a system used by doctors worldwide. The authors argue that acknowledging GD as a health issue is important for treatment and prevention, as some critics downplay its effects, often influenced by gaming industry interests. Including GD in this classification can improve care for individuals who struggle with excessive gaming and related issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from gaming disorder and healthcare providers responsible for their treatment.

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Researchers studied a specific enzyme called mPGES-1, which is linked to inflammation and cancer, to find new medication options that might cause fewer side effects. They used a computer method to screen a large number of molecules and found several that could effectively inhibit this enzyme, specifically noticing that compounds with a certain chemical structure called 3-hydroxy-3-pyrrolin-2-one had strong activity at low concentrations. This discovery is important because it could lead to new drugs that treat inflammation and cancer more safely. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from inflammation and cancer.

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This research paper examines gaming disorder, a condition resulting from excessive gaming that has been officially defined for the first time in a global health document. The study found that about 10%-15% of young people in some Asian countries and 1%-10% in Western countries may be affected by this disorder. Understanding and addressing gaming disorder is crucial because it shares similarities with other addictive behaviors, and targeted clinics are being created to help those affected. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with gaming addiction and their families.

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This study explored the life cycle of the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which causes Chagas disease, to better understand how it grows and divides. Researchers identified 305 specific genetic messages that are active during different stages of the parasite's growth cycle. This discovery is important because new treatments for Chagas disease are needed, and knowing how these genes are controlled can help in designing more effective and less toxic medications. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from Chagas disease and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a new type of sensor designed to measure electric fields across a wide range of frequencies, from very low (50 Hz) to very high (70 MHz). The researchers tested this sensor using various materials and found it could effectively measure electric fields, confirming it works even during unusual electrical activities like lightning strikes. This is important because it could improve how we monitor electrical systems, helping to catch problems before they escalate. Who this helps: This benefits engineers and technicians working with electrical equipment and systems.

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This study focused on a gene called TcCYC6 from the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Researchers found that when they increased the expression of this gene, it negatively impacted the growth of the parasite in the lab, interfering with its cell cycle. This is important because understanding how TcCYC6 is controlled could lead to new ways to fight Chagas disease by targeting the parasite's reproduction. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from Chagas disease and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how colchicine, a chemical compound, affects the growth of Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. Researchers found that colchicine stopped the process of cell division (cytokinesis) but did not interfere with the preparation and separation of the parasite’s genetic material. When the colchicine treatment ended, some parasites ended up with two nuclei and one of their specialized structures (kinetoplast), which may affect their ability to grow and reproduce. Who this helps: This research aids scientists and doctors in understanding the biology of Chagas disease, which could lead to better treatments.

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This study looked at how to make weak and deteriorating bones from archaeological and paleontological sites stronger. Researchers found that by reacting carbon dioxide with calcium hydroxide and collagen, they could grow aragonite crystals in the bones, significantly boosting their strength by 50-70% compared to untreated bones. This is important because it offers a way to better preserve valuable ancient bones for study and display. Who this helps: This helps archaeologists and paleontologists who need to preserve fragile bone specimens.

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This study looked at the safety of a special type of nutrition given through an IV (called parenteral nutrition) to patients with severe heart failure who received a ventricular assist device (a device that helps the heart pump blood). The researchers reviewed the cases of 43 patients and found that those who received this nutrition for more than 7 days did not have a higher risk of infections or other complications compared to those who received it for a shorter period or received other forms of nutrition. This is important because it shows that longer use of IV nutrition is generally safe for these patients and does not negatively impact their chances of survival. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced heart failure who are undergoing ventricular assist device implantation.

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This study focused on improving the way scientists analyze egg-based wall paintings, specifically the technique used in frescoes. Researchers developed a better method called dot-ELISA to detect proteins from eggs in these paintings, which showed a consistent relationship between the amount of protein and color intensity measured in a specific light range. They found that their new method provided accurate results when tested on various samples, including famous artworks by Giotto. Who this helps: This helps conservators and art historians in preserving and analyzing historical artworks.

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This study developed a way to measure tiny changes in laser brightness with great precision. Using specialized electronics, researchers analyzed fluctuations from three types of lasers and found their intensity stability can be precisely characterized. This is important because stable lasers are crucial for various applications in medicine and technology. Who this helps: This helps researchers and engineers working with lasers in fields like medicine and telecommunications.

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This study examined a protein called TcCYC2 from the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which plays a role in controlling how the parasite's cells divide. The researchers found that when they increased the amount of TcCYC2 in the parasite, it caused the cells to divide faster and become smaller. This is important because understanding how TcCYC2 affects cell division can lead to new insights into T. cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for Chagas disease.

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This study looked at how effective and long-lasting the antimicrobial properties of silver and zeolite materials in heating and air conditioning ducts are for improving air quality in healthcare facilities. Researchers found that even after years of use, these specially treated ducts maintained strong protection against bacteria, with germicidal effects measured between 7.086 and 8.299 LogUnits. This is important because it shows that these advanced materials can help keep the air cleaner in hospitals, reducing the risk of infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients in healthcare settings by lowering their exposure to harmful bacteria.

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This study looked at a newly discovered protein called Par45 in the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Researchers found that Par45 helps the parasite grow and multiply by affecting specific peptide bonds, and it is primarily located in the parasite's nucleus. When they reduced the levels of Par45 in a related parasite, Trypanosoma brucei, the cell growth slowed down, indicating that Par45 is crucial for the parasite's normal function. Who this helps: This research may help scientists develop new treatments for diseases caused by these parasites.

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Researchers looked into how too much thyroid hormone affects the way the body processes carbohydrates, particularly in relation to diabetes. They found that excess thyroid hormone can lead to higher glucose production in the liver, lower insulin output, and changes in fat metabolism, which can increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious diabetes complication). This is important because screening all diabetic patients for thyroid issues can significantly improve their blood sugar control and overall health. Who this helps: This benefits diabetic patients, especially those with thyroid problems.

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This study looked at how incretins, hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels, can be targeted to improve treatment for type 2 diabetes. Researchers reviewed recent trials and found that new medications affecting the incretin system, like exenatide and DPP-IV inhibitors, show great promise in managing this condition. These treatments could lead to better blood sugar control, but their cost and possible side effects also need to be weighed in treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes and their healthcare providers.