MATTHEW M. BUCHANAN, M.D.

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This study looked at how parents from different racial and ethnic backgrounds find out about mental health treatments for their children and how well they understand the options available. Among 281 parents surveyed, most relied on pediatricians, health websites, and family members for information, but they trusted healthcare professionals the most. On average, parents recognized only about 40% of treatment options, with family therapy, medication, and cognitive behavioral therapy being the most familiar, highlighting a gap in knowledge that could affect how parents seek help for their kids. Who this helps: This helps parents, particularly those from racially and ethnically minoritized backgrounds, by identifying their information needs about youth mental health treatments.

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In this study, researchers explored ways to make triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) more responsive to the chemotherapy drug carboplatin, which often stops working in patients. They discovered that blocking a gene called ATR and another one called PKMYT1 made carboplatin work better, reducing cancer cell survival and increasing DNA damage. Specifically, using ATR inhibitors led to an increase in cancer cell death, showing promising results in overcoming drug resistance. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple negative breast cancer who are struggling with treatment resistance.

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Researchers studied a new type of antimalarial drug called imidazo[4,5-]pyridine-6-carboxamide. They found that this drug effectively cured infected mice when given orally, even at low doses, and was not affected by over 40 different mutations that usually make drugs less effective. This is important because it shows promise in overcoming drug resistance and effectively targeting both active and dormant malaria parasites. Who this helps: This benefits patients with malaria and healthcare providers seeking effective treatments.

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This research focused on developing special organoids—miniature tumor models—that glow under specific light to improve cancer research. The scientists found that these glowing organoids perform similarly to regular organoids in terms of growth and response to chemotherapy drugs, making them useful tools for studying cancer. This matters because it makes it easier to visualize and understand tumors during research, helping to advance cancer treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working in cancer treatment and drug development.

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This study looked at how body weight influences the experience of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) in teenage girls who visit the emergency room. Researchers reviewed the records of 515 patients aged 8 to 25 and found that girls with a higher body mass index (BMI) tended to start menstruating at a younger age (58% started before age 12 compared to 47% of those with lower BMI). However, when it came to treatment results, such as how long patients stayed in the hospital or if they needed blood transfusions, there were no significant differences based on BMI. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare providers by improving their understanding of how to treat HMB in adolescent girls regardless of their weight.

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The study looked at a program called Safe Social Spaces (SSS), created by YouthLine, which trains young adults to help teens who are having suicidal thoughts on social media. Between 2019 and 2024, the program contacted nearly 3,900 young people in crisis, and over half of them (56%) responded to the outreach for help. This program is important because it connects with young people online, where they spend a lot of time, making it easier for them to get the support they need. Who this helps: This helps teens experiencing mental health crises.

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This study looked at programs designed to improve parents' knowledge and skills about youth mental health issues. It found that nine different programs had some success in helping parents understand these problems better, leading to improved knowledge in at least one area of mental health literacy, and most parents reported being satisfied with the programs, although they suggested some areas for enhancement. These findings highlight the importance of continuing to develop and refine programs that educate parents, helping them support their children more effectively. Who this helps: Parents of children with mental health issues.

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This study looked at the experiences of transmasculine and gender-nonconforming individuals with pelvic pain and disorders. Researchers interviewed 14 participants and found that they experienced symptoms like urinary incontinence and pain, which impacted their daily lives and interactions with healthcare providers. Understanding these issues can help improve care for this group by addressing specific barriers they face in accessing treatment. Who this helps: Patients who are transmasculine or gender-nonconforming.

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This study looked at how much unused and expired medication, especially antibiotics, was collected at six community pharmacies in North Carolina. Over 1.5 years, these pharmacies disposed of about 144,084 tablets and capsules, which included nearly 1.3 kilograms of antibiotics. Properly disposing of these medications is important because it helps protect our health and the environment by reducing the risk of drug resistance. Who this helps: This helps patients, their families, and the wider community by promoting safer medication practices.

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This study looked at how social support helps people who faced difficulties during childhood and how it affects their mental health as adults. Researchers found that the more childhood adversity a person experienced, the higher their chances of having major depression or anxiety disorders in adulthood. Specifically, for each additional experience of adversity, the odds of major depression and anxiety increased, but having strong social support lowered those odds significantly. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have experienced childhood adversity and mental health professionals working with them.

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This study focused on a new drug called MRK-A, which is designed to block a specific protein interaction that contributes to certain types of cancer, particularly mesothelioma. The researchers found that while MRK-A was effective at reducing tumor growth, tumors quickly developed resistance to the drug, which was linked to increased levels of a protein called hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). This discovery is important because it suggests that combining MRK-A with drugs that inhibit HGF could improve treatment effectiveness for patients with resistant tumors. Who this helps: This helps patients with mesothelioma and other cancers affected by YAP1/TEAD signaling.

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This study compared two methods of placing feeding tubes in children: laparoscopic (LAP) and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). Out of 688 patients, those who received LAP had fewer complications and required less anesthesia overall, with only 6.5% needing follow-up procedures compared to 10.9% for PEG patients. This is important because it indicates that LAP might be a safer and more efficient option for placing these tubes in young patients. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their families by offering a potentially better method for feeding tube placement.

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This research studied how climate change affects extreme heat in New York City, looking at historical trends and predicting future changes based on different scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions. The findings included concerns about "hot models," which suggest that current methods may underestimate the risks of extreme heat, with some models predicting significantly higher temperatures than others. This research is important because it helps us understand the serious risks of rising temperatures and the unfair ways these risks are experienced by different communities in the city. Who this helps: This helps city planners and public health officials working to protect vulnerable communities from extreme heat.

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This study looked at how accessible cardiac PET scans are for patients with sarcoidosis, a serious heart condition, and compared the costs and benefits of using cardiac PET/MR imaging against the usual imaging methods. It found that those who received cardiac PET scans were mostly male (which is 88% more likely) and mostly White (44% more likely) compared to those who didn't have the scans. Additionally, using the combined cardiac PET/MR approach was cheaper over a patient's lifetime ($8,761 vs. $10,777) and likely provided better quality of life years (0.77 vs. 0.69). Who this helps: This helps patients with sarcoidosis, especially those in underserved communities who may not have access to necessary imaging.

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This study looked at how to improve the collection of particles using a gas jet in mass spectrometry, which is a method used to analyze substances. Researchers found that without proper setup, less than 10% of the particles could be collected, but by placing the equipment closer to the sample and adding a baffle to increase pressure, they could collect nearly 100% of the particles. These findings are important because they can help make mass spectrometry techniques more efficient and effective for various applications. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists who use mass spectrometry in their work.

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This study looked at how funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) affects the diversity of students in MD-PhD programs, specifically those who are racially and ethnically underrepresented in science. Researchers interviewed 69 leaders from these programs and found that NIH funding creates a strong motivation for programs to recruit a more diverse group of students, with high-performing programs effectively implementing strategies to boost diversity. For example, 74% of participants held administrative roles and the research revealed that despite all programs facing funding requirements, those that performed poorly made less impactful changes in their diversity efforts. Who this helps: This benefits medical schools and programs aiming to increase diversity among their future physician-scientists.

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This study looked at how certain factors can help adults cope with the negative effects of experiencing difficulties during childhood, like abuse or neglect. Researchers found that social support, education, and certain personality traits can improve mental health and socioeconomic outcomes for these adults. Specifically, having support from friends and family can be particularly beneficial for mental health, while education can help with overall life success. Who this helps: This helps patients who experienced childhood adversity, as well as their caregivers and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how experiencing difficult times in childhood affects people's mental health, social skills, and job success as they grow older. Researchers found that those who faced childhood adversity tended to have poorer mental health and life outcomes by middle adulthood. For example, individuals with high exposure to childhood hardships had a significantly increased risk of mental health issues later in life, showing that early struggles can have lasting impacts. Who this helps: This benefits patients who experienced childhood adversity and those working to support them, like doctors and mental health professionals.

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This study looked at how to promote physical activity (PA) among individuals with Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF), a heart condition. It found that children and young adults with ToF often feel less confident about their ability to be active, which leads to lower participation in exercise. Improving their self-confidence in physical activity can lead to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life for these individuals. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Tetralogy of Fallot and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how often people visit emergency departments (EDs) for low back pain across different areas in New South Wales, Australia, from 2014 to 2019. The researchers found that there were 26,509 ED visits for low back pain, with patients spending an average of 206 minutes in major city EDs compared to 89 minutes in outer regional EDs. The re-presentation rates were highest in outer regional areas at 11.8%, indicating that patients are often returning for care, which highlights the significant impact on hospital resources. Who this helps: This information benefits hospitals and healthcare providers by helping them understand the demands placed on EDs by low back pain patients.

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This study looked at an outbreak of COVID-19 in three Malayan tigers at a zoo in Tennessee in 2020. The researchers found that the virus was transmitted between the tigers and that it changed slightly as it spread between them. This is important because it shows that COVID-19 can affect both animals and humans, which raises concerns about how the virus spreads in different species. Who this helps: This helps zookeepers and public health officials monitor and control virus outbreaks in both animals and people.

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This study looked at how changes in the structure of DNA in cells, specifically affecting a protein called CTCF, relate to the development of breast cancer. They found that losing one copy of the CTCF protein allows cancer cells to invade more easily by disrupting the organization of DNA, which increases the activity of cancer-promoting genes. Interestingly, making this change in chromatin structure also makes the cancer cells more sensitive to certain treatments that target a process called mTOR. Who this helps: This benefits patients with breast cancer, particularly those whose tumors have CTCF deficiencies.

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This study examined whether therapy guided by a specialized team called a molecular tumor board (MTB) helps patients with advanced cancer live longer without their disease getting worse. Out of 93 patients, those who received MTB-directed therapy were 59% more likely to have a longer period without disease progression compared to their previous treatments. This is important because it shows that using this approach can lead to better outcomes for patients with complex cancer cases. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced cancer and their doctors by providing more effective treatment options.

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This study looked at whether cannabis use affects the type or severity of psychotic symptoms in young people by comparing those who use cannabis regularly with those who do not. Researchers found that, while regular users reported a slightly higher number of mild psychotic symptoms, there were no significant differences in symptom types between the two groups. This matters because it suggests that regular cannabis use does not lead to more severe psychotic symptoms, easing concerns about its impact on mental health for users. Who this helps: This helps patients and their doctors understand cannabis use and its effects on mental health.

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This research looked at how strong community bonds (or social cohesion) in neighborhoods affect COVID-19 diagnosis rates, particularly between areas with different percentages of Black residents. The study found that in neighborhoods where 41% or more of the population is Black, higher social engagement was linked to an 18% increase in COVID-19 diagnosis rates. In contrast, in neighborhoods with less than 41% Black residents, it was connected to a 26% decrease in diagnosis rates. Understanding these patterns can help public health officials create targeted strategies to reduce health disparities in different neighborhoods. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and community leaders working to improve health outcomes in diverse neighborhoods.

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Researchers studied the occurrence and effects of hypothyroidism in patients with sarcoidosis by analyzing responses from nearly 3,900 individuals. They found that 14% of these patients reported having hypothyroidism, which was more common among middle-aged white women and linked to higher rates of other health issues like depression, obesity, and chronic fatigue. This matters because identifying and treating hypothyroidism could help improve the overall health and quality of life for sarcoidosis patients, particularly those experiencing fatigue and depression. Who this helps: Patients with sarcoidosis and hypothyroidism.

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This research paper looked at how tackle techniques in rugby can affect injury rates by examining 3D motion capture data from rugby players. The study reviewed seven articles involving 92 players and found that the way players tackle can be changed by adjusting factors like tackle height and speed. Understanding these techniques is important because it can help reduce injuries in rugby. Who this helps: This helps rugby players and coaches looking to improve safety in the sport.

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This study examined a nurse-run clinic that helps low-income people and those experiencing homelessness. Among the 111 patients who visited the clinic 194 times, 37% had trouble managing their health, and 22% were facing a serious health crisis. The clinic was effective, with 86% of patients leaving with their health goals met and 96% of non-emergency cases successfully avoiding emergency room visits, showing how valuable this approach is for providing care to a vulnerable group. Who this helps: This benefits low-income individuals and those experiencing homelessness.

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This study focused on measuring the levels of a protein called PTEN in breast cancer cases, as there's been confusion about its role as a cancer indicator. The researchers developed a new testing method that can accurately measure PTEN levels in tumor samples, even those previously thought to have no PTEN, achieving accuracy down to 0.1 fmol of protein. This is important because knowing the exact levels of PTEN can help understand the severity of breast cancer, which can impact treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing clearer information on breast cancer severity.

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This study looked at how having dedicated monitors for personal protective equipment (PPE) helped healthcare workers when treating COVID-19 patients. With the help of these monitors, healthcare personnel safely wore and removed their PPE, which led to almost no COVID-19 infections among them, even after caring for more than 1,400 patients. This is important because it shows that proper support and training can keep healthcare workers safe while they care for people with infectious diseases. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and hospitals by ensuring their safety.

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This research studied a new testing method for measuring two important proteins, PTEN and p110α, which play a role in cancer. The new automated test, called iMALDI, can accurately quantify these proteins in tumor tissues and is both precise and efficient, allowing for concentrations as low as 1.4 fmol for PTEN and 0.6 fmol for p110α. This is important because it provides a better way to understand these proteins in cancer, helping improve diagnosis and treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and doctors by improving cancer diagnosis and treatment options.

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This study looked at 3,560 patients with sarcoidosis, a disease that causes inflammation, to see how many also reported having lymphoma, a type of cancer. They found that only 43 patients (1.2%) had lymphoma after being diagnosed with sarcoidosis, but these patients tended to be younger (40 years old compared to 45), more likely to be African American, and to have lower incomes. Those with lymphoma also experienced more severe symptoms, such as chronic fatigue and pain, compared to those without lymphoma, so the findings highlight a need for greater awareness and monitoring for lymphoma in sarcoidosis patients. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and healthcare providers better understand the risks for their patients with sarcoidosis.

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This study looked at the effects of convalescent plasma (CCP) treatment in 80 hospitalized adults with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. It found that patients receiving CCP had a better clinical severity score and lower 28-day mortality rates (only 5% of those treated with CCP died compared to 26% of those who did not receive it). This matters because it shows that CCP can significantly help severely ill COVID-19 patients, particularly those who may not have developed antibodies. Who this helps: This helps hospitalized COVID-19 patients, especially those with other health issues.

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This study looked at how sarcoidosis affects Hispanic patients in the U.S. It found that 9% of patients in the registry identified as Hispanic, and they experienced more serious symptoms, such as chronic pain and depression, compared to non-Hispanics. For instance, Hispanic patients were 1.7 times more likely to have job terminations due to their condition and also reported higher levels of pain that interfered with their daily lives. Who this helps: This helps Hispanic patients with sarcoidosis, their families, and healthcare providers.

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The study looked at how a measurement called the respiratory quotient (RQ) before bariatric surgery could predict how much weight patients would lose afterward. They found that patients who tended to overfeed, indicated by a higher RQ (over 1), had a higher body mass index (BMI) a year after surgery, averaging 34.3 kg/m² compared to 29.3 kg/m² for those who did not overfeed. This matters because understanding RQ can help doctors predict weight loss outcomes and tailor treatment for better success after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking bariatric surgery improve their weight loss results.

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This study looked at how a peer health mentoring program helps women who have recently been released from prison in British Columbia. Researchers found that 93% of participants felt their mentor helped them access community resources, and within three days, nearly 47% had seen a family doctor. These findings highlight the importance of providing mental and practical support to these women as they transition back into society, improving their chances for better health and well-being. Who this helps: This helps women transitioning from prison back into the community.

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This study explored a training program called Seizure First Aid Training For Epilepsy (SAFE) for people with epilepsy who frequently visit emergency departments (EDs) and their support partners. Out of 424 eligible patients, only 53 agreed to participate, which is around 12.5%, and while the training showed potential benefits, there was not a significant reduction in ED visits after a year. This matters because it highlights the challenges in getting enough participants and suggests that more research is needed to improve recruitment for future studies. Who this helps: This primarily helps patients with epilepsy and their families.

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This study looked at a protein called carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) to see how it can help identify different types of kidney tumors. Researchers examined 262 kidney tumors and found that 93% of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (CCRCC) showed strong CA9 expression, while less than half of other types like papillary renal cell carcinomas had CA9 markers. Understanding CA9's role can help doctors better diagnose kidney tumors and differentiate between various types. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in accurately diagnosing kidney tumors.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affected young people's criminal behavior and the juvenile justice system in the U.S. Researchers found that during the early months of the pandemic, social distancing and movement restrictions changed patterns of delinquency, but it is too soon to predict long-term changes. Understanding these trends is important for shaping future responses and support systems for at-risk youth. Who this helps: This helps policymakers, juvenile justice professionals, and community support programs.

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This study looked at what influences police officers' decisions to seek mental health support. Researchers interviewed 20 officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and found that systemic factors, relationships, and access to information affect their willingness to ask for help. It's essential to understand these factors because they can help reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage officers to get the support they need, ultimately improving their well-being. Who this helps: This research benefits police officers and their mental health service providers.

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This study looked at how chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease are handled in the Caribbean after natural disasters, especially following recent hurricanes and earthquakes. It found that about 30% of deaths after these disasters were linked to uncontrolled chronic conditions, and common challenges included getting medication, healthcare, and proper food. Improving the management of these diseases is crucial for creating stronger healthcare systems that can better respond to future disasters. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic diseases in disaster-prone areas, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

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This study looked at how being in a gang or hanging out with delinquent peers affects young people's self-esteem and their behavior after being arrested. Researchers analyzed data from 961 youths and found that both gang members and those with delinquent friends were not negatively affected in terms of self-esteem after an arrest, while those with fewer delinquent friends experienced a drop in self-esteem that led to more delinquency later on. This matters because it shows that the type of social group youth belong to can influence how they react to arrests, suggesting that interventions should consider social environments. Who this helps: This helps youth, parents, and professionals working with at-risk young people.

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Researchers studied the risk and outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with sarcoidosis by having 5,200 patients fill out a questionnaire about their experiences with the virus. They found that 2.23% of respondents were infected, with 15.8% of those infections resulting in hospitalization. Key risk factors for catching COVID-19 included living with someone who had the virus, working in healthcare, suffering from pulmonary or neurological sarcoidosis, and being treated with a specific medication called rituximab. Who this helps: This information benefits sarcoidosis patients and their healthcare providers in understanding their risks related to COVID-19.

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This study looked at how to improve treatment for a patient with HER-2 positive gastric cancer using personalized medicine approaches. Researchers created a model of the patient's cancer and tested a specific drug, T-DM1, which the patient initially responded to but eventually relapsed after six months. By tracking certain genetic markers in the patient's blood, they found a stronger connection between these markers and the patient's response to treatment compared to traditional methods. Who this helps: This benefits gastric cancer patients and their doctors by offering tailored treatment options based on individual responses.

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This study looked at a type of cell called carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in metastatic breast cancer to understand their role in helping tumors grow. The researchers found that CAFs taken from metastatic sites had much stronger effects on cancer cell growth and survival compared to those from primary tumors or normal breast tissue. Specifically, these metastatic CAFs had increased levels of a protein called IGF2, which contributes to tumor growth and can also weaken the immune response. Who this helps: This information can benefit doctors and researchers working to develop better treatments for metastatic breast cancer patients.

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This study looked at why some patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) do not respond to chemotherapy. Researchers found that certain resistant cancer cells have a unique structure and rely heavily on fatty acids for energy, revealing a potential weakness related to a protein called PLIN4, which helps store fat in these cells. By targeting PLIN4, new treatments could be developed for patients who currently struggle with this tough-to-treat cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with chemoresistant triple-negative breast cancer.