DR. MICHAEL J. LARSON, MD

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This study looked at how often patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma discussed their fertility options when diagnosed, particularly younger patients. Among 77 respondents aged 18-50, 72% of women and 59% of men reported having these conversations. Younger patients (18-39) were significantly more likely to discuss fertility than older ones, and those receiving specific treatments were also more likely to receive counseling. This is important because many young patients face risks to their fertility due to their cancer treatment, and understanding these discussions can improve their long-term care. Who this helps: This helps patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied a new wearable patch that can continuously measure drug levels in the body, specifically focusing on the antibiotic vancomycin. In a small trial with six healthy participants, the patches proved to be safe and almost painless while successfully capturing drug levels every five minutes for up to 24 hours, although data was primarily collected for the first 12 hours due to some sensor issues. This technology has the potential to improve drug dosing accuracy for medications that require careful monitoring to avoid side effects or ineffective treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need precise medication dosing, such as those undergoing treatment for serious infections.

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This study focused on designing a new tool called a trocar to help insert a catheter for patients undergoing a specific type of brain surgery. The researchers found that this new tool is strong and effective, with the ability to withstand significant pressure (up to 2799 N), and it is designed to minimize tissue damage during use by having a sharp blade that retracts after insertion. This is important because it can lead to safer surgeries with fewer complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement by potentially reducing surgery risks.

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This study looked at the rates of gestational diabetes and hypertension among Hispanic mothers in Florida from 2004 to 2022, focusing on whether they were born in the U.S. or elsewhere. It found that foreign-born Hispanic mothers had higher rates of gestational diabetes (5.3%) but lower rates of gestational hypertension (4.3%) compared to U.S.-born mothers, who had 4.7% and 5.3%, respectively. The research highlights significant health differences among Hispanic mothers based on where they were born, showing the need for targeted health policies to better support these communities. Who this helps: This helps Hispanic mothers, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

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This study looked at a new genetic condition linked to problems with a protein complex called cohesin, which is important for organizing our genes. Researchers found that people with certain genetic changes had developmental delays and intellectual disabilities, and they identified a specific gene that plays a key role in these symptoms. For instance, in lab tests, mice with reduced levels of this gene showed growth and learning issues, while those with even lower levels faced severe health problems. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with developmental disorders and their families by identifying a genetic cause.

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This study looked at how people at a public university feel about vaccines to create better strategies for encouraging vaccination. Researchers found that social identities, knowledge about vaccines, the way vaccines are discussed, and the perception of vaccines in relation to overall health all affect whether or not people choose to get vaccinated. For example, they discovered that understanding and communication about vaccines are crucial for increasing acceptance among students and staff. Who this helps: This helps university students and staff who may be hesitant about getting vaccinated.

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This study looked at how teachers' beliefs about positive behavior programs in schools affect their effectiveness and student outcomes. Researchers found that when teachers had more supportive beliefs about these programs, they implemented them better, which led to a 30% increase in student reading proficiency and a 15% reduction in suspensions by the end of the school year. This matters because improving teachers' beliefs and how they deliver these programs can significantly enhance student success, especially for different socioeconomic groups. Who this helps: This helps teachers, school administrators, and students.

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This study examined how court navigator programs in Connecticut, Maine, and Massachusetts help people using court services connect with community treatment and support for overdose prevention. Researchers found that nearly half of the clients (46.5%) were self-referred, and more than one-third (35.7%) of those allowing follow-ups had previously experienced an overdose. The study highlights that while these navigators are effective in linking clients with resources, there is a notable lack of overdose prevention strategies in court settings, indicating a significant area for improvement. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with substance use issues who need support navigating treatment options.

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This study looked at how a primary care clinic transformed itself to better promote health among its diverse patients. The clinic adopted new policies and systems focusing on lifestyle medicine, which helped encourage healthier habits in the community. This approach is important because it addresses not only medical treatments but also the overall health environment, potentially leading to better health outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients from various backgrounds seeking to improve their health.

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This study looked at how independent community pharmacists worked with public health before and during the COVID-19 pandemic by interviewing 42 pharmacists from both urban and rural areas in North Dakota. The findings showed that rural pharmacists had more established relationships with public health before the pandemic, while many urban pharmacists built these connections only because of COVID-19. Understanding these relationships can help improve health services, especially for underserved rural communities. Who this helps: This benefits patients in rural areas who may have limited access to healthcare services.

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This study looked at the costs of providing a new HIV prevention product called the PrEP ring in Kenya and how much women are willing to pay for it. Researchers found that it costs about $206 a year to offer the PrEP ring, and while 78% of women expressed interest in it, their average willingness to pay was only $11.16 per year, which is much lower than the actual cost. This matters because if the price isn't lowered, many Kenyan women may not be able to afford it, limiting access to a potentially life-saving product. Who this helps: This research benefits women at risk of HIV, especially those currently using oral PrEP.

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In this study, researchers looked at how different monitors track responses to pain during surgery under general anesthesia. They found that the Pupillary Reflex Dilation (PRD) was the most reliable indicator of how the body reacts to pain, especially in relation to how the anesthetic drug remifentanil was administered. This is important because it can help doctors better manage pain control during surgery, ensuring that patients are more comfortable and safe. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing surgery.

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This study looked at safety issues in veterinary care across the US and Europe by analyzing reports from over 2,200 veterinary facilities between 2021 and 2022. Out of more than 64,000 reported safety events, 73% were minor or "near misses," while 6.1% resulted in serious harm or death, particularly during anesthesia or with cats and exotic animals experiencing greater risks. Understanding these events is crucial for improving veterinary care and protecting animal patients. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners by highlighting safety concerns in veterinary practices.

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This research paper looks at how a new type of imaging technique called PET/MRI can improve the care of patients with cancers related to female reproductive organs. The findings show that using PET/MRI together in one scan can provide a more complete picture of the disease, making it easier to assess the stage of cancer and monitor treatment, compared to using separate scans. This matters because it can simplify the process for patients and potentially lead to better care. Who this helps: Patients with gynecologic cancers.

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This research examined how the wax on the leaves of sorghum plants responds to environmental factors like light and drought. The study found that changes in wax production can happen quickly—in just a few days—rather than over months, and that different treatments, like shading, significantly influenced wax levels, showing a clear difference in wax quantity. Understanding these dynamics is important because the wax helps the plant cope with drought, which could improve crop resilience and agricultural productivity. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists looking to enhance drought resistance in crops.

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This study looked at how to fairly evaluate AI algorithms used in healthcare, specifically for analyzing brain tumors from images. The research involved a competition called the Federated Tumor Segmentation (FeTS) Challenge, which used data from 32 different locations to assess different AI techniques. The findings showed that adaptive methods for combining data improved performance, but there were still some cases where the algorithms didn't work as well as expected. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving the accuracy of AI tools used for diagnosing and treating brain tumors.

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This study looked at the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program in North Carolina, which allows police to send people to addiction support services instead of arresting them for minor crimes. Researchers interviewed 49 people involved in the program and found that many communities lacked essential resources, making it hard for participants to access the help they needed. When services were available, they were often seen as difficult to reach, causing some participants to drop out of the program when they needed support the most. Who this helps: This helps individuals struggling with substance use disorders who might benefit from diversion programs like LEAD.

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This study looked at how a vaccine called LeishTec can help prevent the transmission of a deadly disease called leishmaniosis from infected mother dogs to their puppies. It found that puppies born to vaccinated mothers were much less likely to get the disease: only 4.55% tested positive compared to 22.22% of those born to unvaccinated mothers. This matters because preventing this type of transmission could significantly reduce the number of new infections in dogs and, consequently, the risk to humans as well. Who this helps: This helps dogs and their owners, particularly in areas where the disease is common.

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This study explored whether heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV-B) could improve heart rate patterns and reduce stress in people who have had a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Out of 58 participants, those who received HRV-B showed a notable increase in their heart rate balance during rest and stress recovery, with their heart rate's low-frequency to high-frequency ratio improving significantly. Overall, both groups reported improvements in thinking skills and feelings of anxiety and depression, but the changes were more pronounced in the HRV-B group for depression. Who this helps: This research benefits individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries and the healthcare providers supporting their recovery.

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This study examined a new treatment called HCW9218, which combines two strategies: boosting immune cells (specifically a type of T-cell called CD8T cells) and blocking a protein that suppresses their function in cancer. In animal models of melanoma and breast cancer, HCW9218 increased the number of active CD8T cells and enhanced the effectiveness of other treatments, leading to a significant reduction in tumor growth. In a Phase 1 clinical trial, 67% of patients with advanced ovarian cancer showed stable disease after receiving HCW9218. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients, particularly those with advanced solid tumors like melanoma and breast cancer.

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This study focused on facial nerve palsy, a condition that can cause weakness or paralysis of the face, in patients diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). Researchers reviewed 14 articles and found that out of 28 cases of facial nerve palsy, 86% had hearing loss and 36% experienced paralysis on both sides of the face. The findings show that while surgical options were not effective, nearly all patients improved their facial function with medical treatment, making it crucial for doctors to consider GPA when patients show symptoms like persistent ear problems or facial weakness. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing facial weakness and their doctors in identifying potential underlying causes.

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This study looked at how certain bacteria found in the soil around wheat plants can help protect soybean crops from three major diseases that hurt their growth. Researchers tested 61 different bacterial strains and found that six of them significantly slowed the growth of harmful fungi and nematodes. Notably, two specific strains greatly reduced the number of soybean cyst nematodes, which are a major threat to soybeans. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers growing soybeans by offering a more environmentally friendly way to manage crop diseases.

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This study looks at a new strategy called BASIS-T, designed to help teachers better implement evidence-based practices for supporting students with social and emotional challenges. The researchers are working with about 276 teachers from 46 schools to see if this strategy improves how teachers feel about using these practices and how well their students do, including reduced disruptive behavior and improved academic engagement. If successful, this approach could lead to better outcomes for students while being efficient and cost-effective. Who this helps: This benefits teachers and students with social and emotional challenges in schools.

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This study looked at how well schools and community organizations work together to provide mental health care for children and teens. The researchers found that when schools and community-based organizations (CBOs) are aligned in their approach, the implementation of mental health practices is more effective. Specifically, the connections between the contexts of these organizations led to better outcomes, showing that teamwork is crucial for improving mental health care delivery. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly children and adolescents needing mental health support.

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This study looked at how disability and social factors affected women’s access to breast and cervical cancer screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that women with disabilities were less likely to get screened; for example, in 2020, they had only a 59% chance of getting a Pap test compared to those without disabilities. The research highlights the importance of addressing these barriers to ensure all women can get vital health screenings, especially during crises like the pandemic. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly women with disabilities.

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This study looked at how having ADHD affects recovery from concussions in college athletes. The researchers analyzed data from 406 concussion cases and found that ADHD did not significantly change the time it took for athletes to get diagnosed, resolve their symptoms, or return to play. This matters because it challenges the belief that ADHD might slow concussion recovery. Who this helps: This helps athletes and sports medical professionals understand that ADHD does not delay concussion recovery.

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This study looked at loneliness among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that 33% of cancer survivors felt lonely in the past month, and certain factors increased this feeling, such as being female, not living with a partner, poor health, and increased use of alcohol and marijuana. Understanding these risks is crucial because loneliness can harm the health of cancer survivors, and addressing lifestyle and mental health issues could improve their well-being. Who this helps: This helps cancer survivors and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how doctors talk about the actions of parents when caring for sick children in the hospital. The researchers analyzed 74 recorded conversations and found that doctors often avoided directly blaming parents for their actions while reassuring them that they are doing a good job. This approach helps maintain a positive relationship between doctors and parents, which is important for providing effective care to hospitalized children. Who this helps: This benefits both parents and doctors in the hospital setting.

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This study examined how not answering questions about adverse childhood experiences (ACE), which are traumatic events before age 18, relates to health outcomes. It found that individuals who did not respond to ACE questions showed patterns similar to those who reported ACE exposure, indicating they might face significant health challenges—such as being underweight or obese and having conditions like depression or high blood pressure. This matters because it highlights the need for healthcare providers to support both those who disclose their ACE experiences and those who don’t, ensuring effective interventions for everyone. Who this helps: Patients facing the effects of childhood trauma.

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This study looked at how to introduce new long-acting options for preventing HIV, like the monthly PrEP ring, in low-income and middle-income countries. Researchers spoke with 27 international experts and identified six key lessons for effectively rolling out these products, including the importance of respecting personal choice, reducing stigma, and integrating services that focus on women's and families' needs. These insights matter because they provide a roadmap for better planning and implementation, which can help more people access these life-saving prevention methods. Who this helps: This benefits women at risk of HIV and the healthcare providers supporting them.

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This study looked at how cooperation between different organizations impacts the success of mental health care for children and teenagers delivered in schools. Researchers found that similarities in work environments (known as inter-organizational alignment) help improve key outcomes. Specifically, factors related to how well the care is implemented, like treatment quality and access to services, were influenced more by the conditions within those organizations than by general workplace culture. Who this helps: This benefits children and adolescents needing mental health support in school settings, as well as the clinicians and school staff providing that care.

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This study looked at how troponin T levels in blood tests can help doctors determine if trauma patients who fall from standing height need further heart evaluations. Researchers analyzed data from 560 patients and found that an initial troponin level above 19 ng/L was linked to more cardiology consultations and follow-up, while the rise from the first to a second troponin level did not indicate a greater need for additional testing. The findings suggest that using a troponin level cut-off of 50 ng/L could better indicate when patients truly need cardiac evaluations, helping avoid unnecessary treatments and hospital stays for those who are otherwise healthy. Who this helps: This research benefits trauma patients and helps doctors make more informed decisions regarding their care.

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This study looked at how specific small molecules in the blood called microRNAs are linked to the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in middle-aged and older adults. Researchers tested blood samples from nearly 4,440 people and found that six particular microRNAs were connected to at least five different risk factors for heart disease. Understanding these links is important because it could help identify people at risk for CVD and lead to better prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing new insights into cardiovascular disease risk and potential targets for intervention.

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This study looked at short mental health programs in schools to see if they help students feel better emotionally. Researchers analyzed 81 studies involving over 40,000 students and found that these programs generally led to improvements in mental health, with a small but significant effect size of 0.18 immediately after the intervention and lasting effects of 0.10 a year later. This matters because effective, brief interventions can provide accessible support to students who need mental health care. Who this helps: Students struggling with mental health issues.

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This study looked at how hormones—both those produced by the body and those from oral contraceptives—affect blood pressure during leg exercises in young women. It found that using oral contraceptives did not change blood pressure or heart rate during these exercises compared to women who do not use them. This matters because it suggests that while oral contraceptives may raise blood pressure at rest, they do not affect responses during lower body exercise. Who this helps: This helps young women, especially those who use oral contraceptives, understand how their medication interacts with exercise and blood pressure.

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This study looked at how formaldehyde affects three viruses—porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, type 2 porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, and Seneca Valley virus 1—when added to pig feed and soybean meal. The researchers found that when formaldehyde was applied after the viruses were introduced, it significantly reduced the amount of virus detected in the feed, with clear decreases in detectable virus levels compared to untreated samples. Specifically, less viral RNA was found at both immediate and longer time points after treating the contaminated materials, indicating that formaldehyde is effective at reducing virus levels. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and veterinarians by providing a way to help keep pig feed safe from viral contamination.

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This study looked at how giving birth in "Baby-Friendly Hospitals" (BFH) in Florida affects the likelihood of mothers starting to breastfeed, especially among different racial and ethnic groups. Researchers found that 89% of mothers who gave birth at BFH initiated breastfeeding, compared to 84% at non-BFH. While BFH increased the odds of breastfeeding initiation overall, non-Hispanic Black mothers were actually 27% less likely to start breastfeeding there, highlighting the need to understand why some groups face barriers. Who this helps: This helps mothers, especially from minority groups, by identifying gaps in breastfeeding support.

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This study explored the costs and financing involved in rolling out a new HIV prevention method called the dapivirine vaginal ring. Researchers talked to 27 experts from various international organizations and identified ten key cost areas that need to be addressed for effective implementation, such as planning for awareness, integrating into health services, and improving supply chains. This matters because understanding these costs can help speed up the availability of effective HIV prevention methods to those in need. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of HIV by making new prevention methods more accessible.

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This study looked at the relationship between certain microRNAs in the blood and the development of new breast cancer cases in women. Researchers measured levels of 166 different microRNAs in the blood of over 2,000 women and found that higher levels of two specific microRNAs, miR-134-5p and miR-505-3p, were linked to the onset of 56 new cases of breast cancer. This research is important because it identifies potential markers that could help predict breast cancer risk, which could lead to earlier detection and treatment. Who this helps: This helps women at risk of breast cancer and healthcare providers looking for early detection methods.

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This study looked at how combining PET and MRI scans can improve the assessment and management of patients with gynecologic cancers, like ovarian or cervical cancer. It found that using PET/MRI scanners together makes it easier to evaluate the disease in one visit instead of having separate scans, helping doctors get a clearer picture of the patient’s condition. This method is particularly successful in treating these types of cancers, which can enhance patient care significantly. Who this helps: Patients with gynecologic cancers.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic changed waste management in Fargo, North Dakota. It found that residential waste increased by up to 15% during the 2020 lockdown, while commercial waste dropped by 12% during the same period, but bounced back in 2021. Cardboard recycling rose significantly, with a 5.8% increase in 2020 and a 13% increase in 2021, reflecting the shift to online shopping during the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps city planners and waste management officials understand how pandemics can impact waste and recycling practices.

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This study examined the presence of sarcopenia (low muscle mass) in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer who received a treatment called Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Out of 90 patients analyzed, 61% were found to have sarcopenia, and 36% were considered frail. This matters because recognizing sarcopenia and frailty in these patients provides a chance to address these issues early and potentially improve outcomes before the disease advances. Who this helps: This helps patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer by identifying risks that can be managed.

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This research focused on improving a technique that helps prepare tiny samples for advanced imaging of cells and tissues. The team developed a new tool that combines fluorescence microscopy with sample milling, which successfully created thin samples (around 200 nanometers thick) in less than 24 hours. This improvement means researchers can more efficiently study the fine details of cells, which could enhance our understanding of biological processes. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists studying cellular structures.

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This study explored a computer program that uses advanced technology to analyze brain scans for patients with bleeding in the brain (intracerebral hemorrhages). The program successfully identified and measured the size of the blood clots and swelling in the brain with a good level of accuracy—about 75% for the clots and 68% for the swelling—compared to expert evaluations, even though it slightly underestimated clot volumes by 17%. This is important because better and faster imaging can guide doctors during treatment, potentially leading to better recovery outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a new opioid prescribing law in Nevada changed the way long-term opioid patients received their medications, particularly focusing on doses higher than 50 milligram equivalents of morphine. After the law was implemented, there was a 2.9% decrease in the number of prescriptions over that threshold compared to neighboring Colorado. The law made it harder for doctors to increase doses too quickly and also made it longer for them to reduce doses, which means patients might stay on higher doses for longer than they did before. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on opioids by promoting safer prescribing practices.

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This study looked at a new treatment called histotripsy, which uses ultrasound waves to target and destroy pancreatic tissue without surgery. In tests on 11 pigs, researchers found that the treatment created bubbles in the pancreas that could be seen on ultrasound and did not cause significant harm to the surrounding tissues. This is important because pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat, and noninvasive methods could improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatic cancer seeking less invasive treatment options.

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This study looked at how specific substances in the body, called metabolites, are connected to heart failure (HF) in people without the condition at the start. The researchers discovered that certain metabolites, like glycine and asparagine, are linked to a higher or lower risk of developing heart failure and that these links are influenced by genetic factors and diet. Understanding these connections is important because it helps make sense of how genetics and lifestyle can affect heart health. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for heart failure and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at 44 cats that had blockages in their intestines due to hairballs, known as trichobezoars. Researchers examined biopsy samples from these cats and found that those taken close to the blockage often showed more signs of inflammation and damage than samples from other parts of the intestine. Specifically, biopsies from older cats often indicated the presence of a type of cancer called alimentary lymphoma. This research is important because it helps doctors understand how to better diagnose intestinal diseases in cats, especially when dealing with complications from hairballs. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and cat owners manage and diagnose intestinal issues in cats.