Dr. Jaffe studies several aspects of medical science, with a keen interest in how conditions like cancer and obesity influence treatment effectiveness and patient health. His research includes developing new radiation treatment methods for frail elderly patients with brain tumors, investigating the role of genes and metabolism in breast cancer, and exploring emotional wellness interventions for children. The insights from his studies aim to improve existing treatments and outcomes for patients across various medical disciplines.
Key findings
In a study focusing on frail elderly patients with rare brain tumors, both hypofractionated and standard radiation therapies maintained tumor control in over 76% of patients with an average survival time of 18 months.
Research on triple-negative breast cancer showed that fat-producing environments led to a 50% reduction in gene expression, impacting treatment responses.
A new Mother-Child Emotional Preparation Program improved preschool children's stress management, as evidenced by lower heart rates and better emotional regulation.
Investigation into radiation therapy for adrenal tumors found that doses over 75 Gy, combined with breath-holding strategies, significantly enhanced treatment success.
In studying the immune response in obese individuals, researchers discovered that fat cell substances weakened T-cells' effectiveness, crucial for informing cancer immunotherapy.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Jaffe study breast cancer?
Yes, Dr. Jaffe's research includes the effects of obesity on breast cancer cells and how it alters treatment responses.
What treatments has Dr. Jaffe researched?
He has researched various treatments including radiation therapies for different types of tumors and strategies for improving mental health in children.
Is Dr. Jaffe's work relevant to patients with obesity?
Absolutely, his studies explore how obesity affects immune responses and cancer treatment, providing valuable insights for obese patients.
How does Dr. Jaffe help patients with brain cancer?
His studies focus on optimizing radiation treatment to improve survival rates and reduce side effects for brain cancer patients.
What is the significance of Dr. Jaffe's research on childhood emotional health?
His research highlights effective programs that improve emotional connections and stress management for preschoolers, benefiting their overall mental health.
Publications in plain English
A cavity-array microscope for parallel single-atom interfacing.
2026
Nature
Shaw AL, Soper A, Shadmany D, Kumar A, Palm L +6 more
Plain English This study developed a new type of microscope that allows each atom in a two-dimensional array to connect with its own individual optical cavity, improving the measurement and manipulation of these atoms. They tested this system with over 40 cavities, achieving fast and accurate readings of the atoms, which could be done in less than a millisecond. This advancement is crucial because it paves the way for large-scale quantum networks that could enhance communication technologies and quantum computing.
Who this helps: This helps researchers in quantum science and technology.
Blunt-force assembly of programmable DNA architectures using π-π stacking.
2026
Nature communications
Woloszyn K, Horvath A, Jaffe M, Perren L, Rueb J +6 more
Plain English This research focused on how to assemble DNA structures in new ways using blunt (flat-ended) DNA pieces instead of sticky-ended ones. The scientists successfully created complex 3D shapes that can be controlled and programmed, achieving precise structures with detailed measurements at a resolution between 10.0 and 1.86 angstroms. This breakthrough is significant because it allows for more versatile designs in DNA nanotechnology, which can have various applications in medicine and materials science.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers in genetics and nanotechnology.
Memory Tract Sparing Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Radiation Planning of Primary Brain Tumors.
2025
Practical radiation oncology
Haisraely O, Mayer A, Jaffe M, Ben-Ayun M, Dubinsky S +2 more
Plain English This study explored a new way to use imaging technology to protect important memory areas in the brain during radiation treatment for primary brain tumors. Researchers found that using this method resulted in patients receiving an average radiation dose of just 10.1 Gy to memory fiber tracts, while their cognitive function remained stable, with scores on a memory test changing only slightly from 27.1 before treatment to 26.6 after eight months. This is important because keeping these memory areas healthy can help prevent cognitive decline, which affects about 30% of brain tumor patients after radiation therapy.
Who this helps: This helps patients with primary brain tumors undergoing radiation therapy.
Targeting chromosomally unstable tumors with a selective KIF18A inhibitor.
2025
Nature communications
Phillips AF, Zhang R, Jaffe M, Schulz R, Carty MC +16 more
Plain English This research focused on a specific type of cancer cells that have unstable chromosomes, which is a common weakness in many tumors. The scientists discovered that the protein KIF18A is crucial for the survival of these unstable cancer cells; when they blocked KIF18A, tumor growth decreased significantly. They developed a new drug called VLS-1272 that effectively targets KIF18A, leading to significant tumor shrinkage in lab tests.
Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients with tumors that have chromosomal instability.
Third Recurrent World Health Organization 1 Spinal Meningiomas: Case Series and Clinical Outcomes Following Surgery or Definitive Radiotherapy.
2025
World neurosurgery
Haisraely O, Jaffe M, Taliansky A, Lawerence YR
Plain English This study looked at treatment options for patients with recurring spinal meningiomas, focusing on whether to perform a third surgery or use radiation therapy. Researchers followed 48 patients and found that after three years, 77.4% of those who had surgery and 76.4% of those who received radiation were still free from disease progression. While surgery resulted in more neurological improvements, radiation therapy provided better pain control and had no serious side effects.
Who this helps: Patients with recurrent spinal meningiomas.
Cerebellar re-irradiation after whole brain radiotherapy significant symptom relief with minimal toxicity in metastatic brain patients.
2025
Scientific reports
Haisraely O, Jaffe M, Lawerence YR, Talianksy A, Taliansky A
Plain English Researchers looked at the effects of giving extra radiation specifically to the cerebellum in patients who had already received whole-brain radiotherapy for brain cancer. They found that 75% of the 56 patients experienced improvement in their symptoms, with notable relief from nausea (85%), headaches (80%), and dizziness (58%). This treatment showed minimal side effects, with only 1.7% developing serious complications.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with metastatic brain cancer, especially those with recurrent cerebellar symptoms.
Hypo-Fractionated versus Standard Fractionation Radiotherapy in Frail and Elderly Patients with Central Nervous System Solitary Fibrous Tumors.
2025
Oncology
Haisraely O, Haisraely O, Jaffe M, Taliansky A, Cohen ZR +1 more
Plain English This study looked at two types of radiation therapy for frail elderly patients with rare brain tumors called solitary fibrous tumors (cSFTs). Researchers compared hypofractionated (HF) therapy, which involves fewer, higher doses of radiation, to standard fractionation (SF), which gives lower doses over more sessions. They found that both treatments led to similar outcomes: about 76.2% of HF patients and 80% of SF patients maintained control over their tumors, and both groups had an average survival time of 18 months.
Who this helps: This research helps frail elderly patients with cSFTs by showing that they can receive effective treatment with less intense radiation schedules.
Shadmany D, Kumar A, Soper A, Palm L, Yin C +6 more
Plain English This study explored a new type of resonator that enhances how atoms interact with light. The researchers achieved a high efficiency in capturing light with a single atom, reaching a retention rate of 99.55% in detecting atoms and a survival rate of 99.89% over 130 microseconds. This advancement is important because it improves the accuracy and reliability of quantum technologies, which can benefit things like quantum computing and communication.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers in quantum computing and photon-based technologies.
Attracting and retaining the psychology workforce in public mental health: a study based in Melbourne, Victoria.
2025
Discover mental health
Jaffe M, Hopkins L, Halperin S
Plain English This study examined why psychologists choose to work in public mental health services in Melbourne, especially compared to higher-paying private practices. It found that factors like flexible working hours, teamwork, and not having to pay room rent were appealing to both salaried and private psychologists, but financial concerns and isolation were common reasons they left. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring that there are enough mental health professionals to meet community needs.
Who this helps: This benefits patients seeking mental health support by ensuring there are more available psychologists.
Tet Transgene Activation is Disrupted in Lipogenic Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells.
2025
ACS synthetic biology
Townsel A, Wu Y, Jaffe M, Shields C, Haynes KA
Plain English This study looked at how breast cancer cells that produce fat (lipogenic) respond to inserted genes (transgenes) that scientists use for research. It found that when these cancer cells are influenced by fat-related substances, the activity of the inserted genes decreases sharply. Specifically, they observed that a fat-producing environment led to a 50% reduction in gene expression, affecting the overall function of the cancer cells. This is important because it helps researchers understand how fat metabolism can change genetic activity, which could impact how treatments are developed for this type of cancer.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on treatments for triple-negative breast cancer.
The T-cell niche tunes immune function through modulation of the cytoskeleton and TCR-antigen forces.
2024
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology
Kellner AV, Hunter R, Do P, Eggert J, Jaffe M +13 more
Plain English This study looked at how obesity affects the immune response by altering the environment around T-cells, which are critical for fighting infections and cancer. Researchers found that substances released from fat cells change how T-cells respond to their targets, leading to weaker immune activation. Specifically, T-cells in an obese environment showed reduced strength in their interactions with their target molecules, and these changes were also observed in human T-cells during immunotherapy treatment.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with obesity by improving our understanding of their immune challenges, especially in relation to cancer and immunotherapy.
Navigating college campuses: The impact of stress on mental health and substance use in the post COVID-19 era.
2024
Current problems in pediatric and adolescent health care
Dave S, Jaffe M, O'Shea D
Plain English This study examined how stress affects mental health and substance use among college students after the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that many students are struggling with mental health issues; specifically, anxiety, depression, and other conditions have been increasing, hindering their ability to succeed academically. It is crucial for colleges to address these mental health challenges and improve access to care to support students better.
Who this helps: This benefits college students who are facing mental health struggles.
Total dose, fraction dose and respiratory motion management impact adrenal SBRT outcome.
2024
Clinical and translational radiation oncology
Haisraely O, Weiss I, Jaffe M, Appel S, Person-Kaidar O +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how different radiation doses and managing breathing movement affect the success of a treatment called stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for tumors that have spread to the adrenal glands. Researchers found that doses greater than 75 Gy and using methods like breath-holding during treatment significantly improved tumor control. Importantly, they discovered that while treating both adrenal glands may increase the risk of complications, treating one adrenal gland with the right dose and techniques can be very effective.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with adrenal metastases and their doctors by providing guidance on effective radiation treatment strategies.
The Epigenetic Landscape of Breast Cancer, Metabolism, and Obesity.
2024
Advances in experimental medicine and biology
Townsel A, Jaffe M, Wu Y, Henry CJ, Haynes KA
Plain English This study looked at how obesity affects breast cancer cells and their environment, particularly by altering their genetic regulation (epigenetics), which can worsen survival rates and treatment responses. It found that obesity changes the way breast cancer cells behave, making them tougher against chemotherapy and potentially leading to drug resistance. Understanding these connections is important because it can lead to better treatment options for obese patients with breast cancer.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with breast cancer, especially those who are also obese.
Preschool mother-child emotional preparation program leads to significant improvement in autonomic regulation: a randomized controlled trial.
2024
Frontiers in child and adolescent psychiatry
Welch MG, Ludwig RJ, Kong J, Rauh V, Hane AA +3 more
Plain English This study looked at a special program called the Mother-Child Emotional Preparation Program (MCEP), which aimed to help preschoolers handle stress better through improved emotional connections with their mothers. The researchers found that children who participated in MCEP had lower heart rates and better heart rate variability after a stressful task, showing improved autonomic regulation. These changes were significant and linked to better emotional connections as reported by their mothers, highlighting the program's potential benefits for children's emotional health.
Who this helps: This helps preschool children and their mothers by improving emotional bonds and stress management skills.
Optical mode conversion via spatiotemporally modulated atomic susceptibility.
2023
Optics express
Baum C, Jaffe M, Palm L, Kumar A, Simon J
Plain English In this study, researchers looked at how to manipulate light more efficiently using a special atomic sample. They found that by controlling the light's properties, they could convert specific light modes with almost perfect efficiency (close to 100%) when using a certain setup. This is important because it can significantly enhance the speed and capacity of data transmission for both classical and quantum information technologies.
Who this helps: This benefits scientists and engineers working in optical communications and quantum computing.
PIC recruitment by synthetic reader-actuators to polycomb-silenced genes blocks triple-negative breast cancer invasion.
2023
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology
Williams NL, Hong L, Jaffe M, Shields CE, Haynes KA
Plain English Researchers looked at ways to activate tumor-suppressing genes in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) to stop cancer cells from growing and invading healthy tissue. They created a new protein called a synthetic reader-actuator (SRA) that can directly turn on these genes. In their experiments, SRA was able to activate 122 important genes, leading to cancer cell death and stopping the cells from spreading, which is crucial for improving treatment outcomes in TNBC.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with triple-negative breast cancer.
A critical interpretive synthesis of power and mistreatment of women in maternity care.
2023
PLOS global public health
Schaaf M, Jaffe M, Tunçalp Ö, Freedman L
Plain English This study focused on the mistreatment of women during childbirth, highlighting how power dynamics contribute to both physical and verbal abuse. Researchers reviewed 104 academic papers and identified various causes of this mistreatment, such as a lack of awareness of women's rights, discrimination against certain groups (like indigenous women), and pressure on healthcare providers to meet performance targets. Understanding these issues is crucial because it can lead to improved maternity care that respects women's rights and dignity.
Who this helps: This research helps expectant mothers, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to enhance maternity care.
The 'omics of obesity in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
2023
Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Monographs
Geitgey DK, Lee M, Cottrill KA, Jaffe M, Pilcher W +21 more
Plain English This study looked at how obesity affects B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and found that fat cells in the body contribute to the cancer's resistance to treatment. They discovered that obesity linked to changes in B-ALL cells makes them more likely to survive chemotherapy, with low-fat diets preserving immune cell activity that helps fight the cancer. The findings suggest that patients with obesity and B-ALL have a higher risk of poorer outcomes.
Who this helps: This helps patients with B-ALL, particularly those who are obese.
Colonic Hamartomatous Ganglioneuromatosis in a 4 Mo Old Puppy.
2023
Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
Jaffe M, Alexander K, Ryan M, Bennett B, Baughman B
Plain English Researchers studied a 4-month-old goldendoodle puppy that had ongoing bleeding from the rectum and issues with rectal prolapse. They found that the puppy had a rare condition called colonic hamartomatous ganglioneuromatosis, which was identified after surgery to remove an intestinal blockage. After the surgery, the puppy recovered well and appeared normal a year later, which highlights that while this condition is uncommon, recognizing it is important for diagnosing gastrointestinal problems in young dogs.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners by improving awareness and diagnosis of rare intestinal conditions in young dogs.
Synthetic Reader-Actuators Targeted to Polycomb-Silenced Genes Block Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Proliferation and Invasion.
2023
GEN biotechnology
Hong L, Williams NL, Jaffe M, Shields CE, Haynes KA
Plain English Researchers studied a new treatment method for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that involves using synthetic molecules to target specific genes that help control tumor growth. They discovered that this treatment led to the activation of 122 important genes, which resulted in reduced tumor size and prevented the cancer cells from spreading. This finding is significant because it shows a promising way to reactivate protective genes that are often turned off in cancer, potentially improving treatment options for patients with TNBC.
Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer.
A cavity loadlock apparatus for next-generation quantum optics experiments.
2023
The Review of scientific instruments
Yin C, Ando H, Stone M, Shadmany D, Soper A +3 more
Plain English This research focused on improving the process of changing optical cavities used in quantum experiments, which are crucial for advancements in quantum computing and networking. The study introduced a new vacuum loadlock technique that speeds up the installation of these cavities from months to just days while maintaining a very low pressure of 3 × 10^-10 Torr. This innovation makes it easier for researchers to experiment with new designs, leading to faster progress in quantum science.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and labs working in quantum optics and atomic physics.
Reducing Cardiovascular Risk for Patients With Diabetes: An Evidence-Based, Population Health Management Program.
2022
Journal for healthcare quality : official publication of the National Association for Healthcare Quality
Levitz C, Jones M, Nudelman J, Cox M, Camacho D +4 more
Plain English This study focused on a program aimed at reducing the risk of heart problems for patients with diabetes in Northern California's safety net clinics. Researchers found that clinics involved in the program improved control of blood pressure and increased prescriptions for heart-protecting medication among diabetic patients. Specifically, these clinics successfully used team-based approaches and education to boost health outcomes, which can ultimately lower the chances of heart attacks and strokes in these communities.
Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and the healthcare providers who care for them.
Teclistamab in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
2022
The New England journal of medicine
Moreau P, Garfall AL, van de Donk NWCJ, Nahi H, San-Miguel JF +29 more
Plain English This study looked at a new treatment called teclistamab for patients with tough-to-treat multiple myeloma who had already tried at least three other therapies. Out of 165 patients, 63% showed a positive response to the treatment, with 39% experiencing a complete response, meaning no detectable cancer cells. The treatment led to significant and lasting improvements for many patients, but it also caused side effects like infections and low blood cell counts.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who need new treatment options.
Biomechanical Comparison of a Headless Compression Screw Fastener and AO Cortical Bone Screw for Fixation of a Simulated Equine Third Carpal Bone Slab Fracture.
2022
Journal of equine veterinary science
Salinger A, Mochal-King C, Clinton K, Priddy LB, Elder S +4 more
Plain English Researchers studied two types of screws used in fixing a specific fracture in horse bones, comparing a new headless screw to a traditional screw. They tested fractures in horse limbs and found no significant difference in strength or stiffness between the two types of screws; both held up well under stress. This matters because using the headless screw could simplify the surgery without compromising the strength needed for healing.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians treating racing and performance horses with bone fractures.
Clinical Update on Metamorphopsia: Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Imaging.
2021
Current eye research
Hanumunthadu D, Lescrauwaet B, Jaffe M, Sadda S, Wiecek E +2 more
Plain English This study looked at metamorphopsia, a visual distortion often linked to eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration. Researchers found that improvements in imaging technology allow for better understanding of how metamorphopsia affects different layers of the retina. They noted that while traditional tests like the Amsler Grid are useful, new tools can offer more accurate assessments and may help patients monitor their symptoms at home.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with vision issues and their doctors by providing better tools for diagnosis and understanding of their conditions.
Hydrophobically Modified Isosorbide Dimethacrylates as a Bisphenol-A (BPA)-Free Dental Filling Material.
2021
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
Marie B, Clark R, Gillece T, Ozkan S, Jaffe M +1 more
Plain English This study looked at new dental filling materials made from plant-based ingredients that do not contain Bisphenol A (BPA). Researchers created and tested different versions of these materials and found that one type, called ISB2GBMA, had a strong structure and a higher temperature resistance compared to others, but still performed well in terms of water absorption and flexibility. This is important because it offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dental fillings that can be safer for patients' health.
Who this helps: This helps patients looking for safer dental materials and dentists seeking effective, eco-friendly options.
Public restrooms, periods, and people experiencing homelessness: An assessment of public toilets in high needs areas of Manhattan, New York.
2021
PloS one
Maroko AR, Hopper K, Gruer C, Jaffe M, Zhen E +1 more
Plain English This study looked at public restrooms in high-need areas of Manhattan, focusing on how people experiencing homelessness manage menstruation. Researchers found that public toilets were often dirty and poorly maintained, with only 44% providing access to menstrual products and disposal options. This is important because having clean and accessible restrooms is crucial for the health and dignity of people menstruating, especially those without stable housing.
Who this helps: This helps people experiencing homelessness who need reliable access to sanitary restroom facilities.
Standardized treatment to improve hypertension control in primary health care: The HEARTS in the Americas Initiative.
2020
Journal of clinical hypertension (Greenwich, Conn.)
DiPette DJ, Goughnour K, Zuniga E, Skeete J, Ridley E +14 more
Plain English The research studied a program called HEARTS in the Americas, which aims to better control high blood pressure in primary health care settings in Latin America and the Caribbean. The program introduced a standardized treatment plan that uses a specific combination of two blood pressure medications in one pill, which has led to significant improvements in hypertension control rates. For example, after implementing this program, many areas reported better management of high blood pressure, which is crucial for reducing heart disease.
Who this helps: This helps patients with high blood pressure and healthcare providers managing their treatment.
Stakeholder Development of an Online Program to Track Arthritis-Related Patient-Reported Outcomes Longitudinally: Live Yes! INSIGHTS.
2020
ACR open rheumatology
Schifferdecker KE, Butcher RL, Knight E, Creek E, Schrandt MS +4 more
Plain English This study focused on creating an online program, called Live Yes! INSIGHTS, to help people with arthritis track their health and well-being over time. Researchers gathered input from 93 participants, including individuals with arthritis and health professionals, to choose the best tools for measuring important health factors. They found that by using reliable health surveys, this platform can help people manage their arthritis more effectively and contribute valuable information to research.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with arthritis and their caregivers.
Automated symptom and treatment side effect monitoring for improved quality of life among adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy in primary care: a pragmatic, cluster, randomized, controlled trial.
2019
Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association
Adams AS, Schmittdiel JA, Altschuler A, Bayliss EA, Neugebauer R +15 more
Plain English Researchers explored whether automated phone monitoring of symptoms and treatment side effects could enhance the quality of life for adults suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a condition that can cause pain and discomfort. They studied 1,270 participants who were given this automated support over six months, but the results showed no significant improvements in their quality of life or symptoms compared to those who received standard care. Quality of life scores were nearly the same for both groups, with intervention participants scoring 0.658 and control participants scoring 0.653.
Who this helps: This study is relevant for doctors and healthcare providers treating patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Improved discovery of genetic interactions using CRISPRiSeq across multiple environments.
2019
Genome research
Jaffe M, Dziulko A, Smith JD, St Onge RP, Levy SF +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how genetic interactions in yeast can change depending on different growth conditions. By using a new technique called CRISPRiSeq, researchers tested about 17,000 yeast strains in five different environments, finding that the number of detectable genetic interactions increased nearly threefold compared to testing in just one condition. This research is important because understanding these interactions can help scientists better grasp how genes function and interact in various situations, leading to advancements in biology and potential medical applications.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists studying genetics and cellular processes.
Xu V, Jaffe M, Panda CD, Kristensen SL, Clark LW +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to hold onto atoms for a longer time, up to 20 seconds, in order to measure gravity more accurately. By keeping the atoms in place instead of letting them fall, the researchers were able to detect tiny differences in gravitational potential with much less background noise. This method improved measurement precision significantly, making it possible to see changes that are much smaller than what was previously measurable.
Who this helps: This benefits scientists and engineers working on advanced measurement technologies.
Spatiotemporal modeling of laser tissue soldering using photothermal nanocomposites.
2018
Lasers in surgery and medicine
Mushaben M, Urie R, Flake T, Jaffe M, Rege K +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a new method for sealing tissues in surgeries using laser heat and special materials made of gold nanorods. Researchers created a mathematical model that helps predict how temperature changes in both the solder material and the surrounding tissues during the laser process, finding that their predictions for temperature changes matched actual measurements closely, often within just a few degrees. This is important because it can lead to better techniques that protect healthy cells while effectively sealing tissue, improving surgical outcomes.
Who this helps: This benefits surgeons and their patients by improving surgical repair techniques.
Efficient Adiabatic Spin-Dependent Kicks in an Atom Interferometer.
2018
Physical review letters
Jaffe M, Xu V, Haslinger P, Müller H, Hamilton P
Plain English This study explored a new technique in atom interferometry, which is a method for measuring tiny changes in movement using atomic particles. The researchers achieved an impressive 99% efficiency in separating atomic spin states, allowing them to measure momentum changes with high precision—up to 400 times better than previous methods. This matters because it enhances our ability to detect minute variations in gravitational fields or movement, which could improve technologies like GPS or geological surveying.
Who this helps: Patients, scientists, and engineers working on precision measurement technologies.
iSeq: A New Double-Barcode Method for Detecting Dynamic Genetic Interactions in Yeast.
2017
G3 (Bethesda, Md.)
Jaffe M, Sherlock G, Levy SF
Plain English Researchers developed a new method called iSeq to study how genes interact with each other in yeast under different conditions. They tested nearly 400 different yeast strains and found that while their results were consistent, genetic interactions varied greatly from one strain to another due to changes in genes. This understanding is important because it reveals how genetic interactions can differ based on the environment, which could lead to new insights in genetics.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying genetics, as well as potential developments in medical treatments.
Bone transport versus acute shortening for the management of infected tibial non-unions with bone defects.
2017
Injury
Tetsworth K, Paley D, Sen C, Jaffe M, Maar DC +3 more
Plain English This study looked at two surgical methods for treating infected tibia (shin bone) injuries where a section of the bone is missing. They compared "bone transport" to "acute shortening/lengthening" in 42 patients. The results showed that patients treated with acute shortening had fewer complications (0.5 minor complications per patient) compared to those treated with bone transport (1.2 minor complications per patient), and they spent less time in braces (10.1 months vs. 12.5 months).
Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from bone infections or injuries.
Damaraju SM, Shen Y, Elele E, Khusid B, Eshghinejad A +3 more
Plain English This study explored how special materials called piezoelectric fibrous scaffolds can help stem cells grow into different types of tissues, like cartilage and bone. Researchers found that scaffolds with low electrical output helped stem cells become cartilage cells, while those with high output helped them become bone cells, with a significant increase in effectiveness when both electrical and physical forces were applied. This is important because it shows a new way to use these smart materials in medical treatments to repair or replace damaged tissues.
Who this helps: This helps patients needing tissue regeneration, such as those with joint injuries or bone diseases.
The effect of microbial colonization on the host proteome varies by gastrointestinal location.
2016
The ISME journal
Lichtman JS, Alsentzer E, Jaffe M, Sprockett D, Masutani E +7 more
Plain English This study examined how bacteria in different parts of the digestive system affect the proteins produced by the host's body in mice. Researchers found that the type and amount of proteins varied significantly depending on the location in the gastrointestinal tract, with conventional mice showing different protein levels compared to germ-free or single-bacterial mice. These findings are important because they help us understand how gut bacteria influence health and disease, which can lead to better treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.
Who this helps: This helps patients with digestive issues and their healthcare providers.
Diabetes and Prior Coronary Heart Disease are Not Necessarily Risk Equivalent for Future Coronary Heart Disease Events.
2016
Journal of general internal medicine
Rana JS, Liu JY, Moffet HH, Jaffe M, Karter AJ
Plain English This study examined the risk of future heart disease events in over 1.5 million adults with varying histories of diabetes and coronary heart disease (CHD) from 2002 to 2011. Researchers found that individuals with only diabetes faced a lower risk of heart disease (1.7 times higher than those without risk factors) compared to those with only CHD (2.8 times higher), and those with both diabetes and CHD had the highest risk (3.9 times higher). This matters because it challenges the longstanding belief that having diabetes is just as dangerous as having a history of heart disease, which can change how doctors assess patients' risks.
Who this helps: This helps doctors better evaluate heart disease risks in patients with diabetes and tailor their treatment plans.
Sleep, Sleep Disorders, and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. What We Know and What We Need to Know: Findings from a National Working Group.
2016
Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics
Wickwire EM, Williams SG, Roth T, Capaldi VF, Jaffe M +13 more
Plain English This paper looked at how sleep problems affect people who have had a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Researchers found that sleep disturbances are very common in these patients and can make their recovery harder. They emphasize that improving sleep could lead to better health outcomes for mTBI patients and suggest ways for researchers, companies, and government groups to work together on finding solutions.
Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from mild traumatic brain injuries.
The Diabetes Telephone Study: Design and challenges of a pragmatic cluster randomized trial to improve diabetic peripheral neuropathy treatment.
2016
Clinical trials (London, England)
Adams AS, Bayliss EA, Schmittdiel JA, Altschuler A, Dyer W +6 more
Plain English The Diabetes Telephone Study looked at how to improve treatment for patients suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a painful nerve condition often caused by diabetes. Researchers tested a system where doctors received real-time updates from patients about their symptoms and medication side effects through automated phone calls. Out of 2078 patients screened, 1206 were enrolled in the study, aiming to see if these calls could lead to better quality of life for patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy by providing better management of their symptoms.
Communication Barriers and the Clinical Recognition of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in a Diverse Cohort of Adults: The DISTANCE Study.
2016
Journal of health communication
Adams AS, Parker MM, Moffet HH, Jaffe M, Schillinger D +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how communication issues affect the recognition of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a condition that causes pain and numbness in the feet, in over 4,400 patients displaying DPN symptoms. Researchers found that patients who had trouble speaking English or didn't discuss their pain with their doctors were less likely to receive a DPN diagnosis. Addressing these communication barriers is important because accurate diagnosis leads to better treatment, especially among diverse patient groups.
Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those from non-English speaking backgrounds.
The impact of electronic health records and teamwork on diabetes care quality.
2015
The American journal of managed care
Graetz I, Huang J, Brand R, Shortell SM, Rundall TG +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how teamwork among healthcare providers affects the quality of diabetes care when electronic health records (EHRs) are used. The research found that patients with diabetes in stronger team settings benefited more from EHRs, with their average blood sugar level (A1C) decreasing by 0.11% compared to a 0.08% decrease for those in less cohesive teams. For cholesterol levels (LDL-C), the drop was 2.15 mg/dL in high-cohesion teams versus 1.42 mg/dL in lower-cohesion teams. This matters because better teamwork leads to greater improvements in health outcomes for diabetes patients.
Who this helps: Patients with diabetes.