MICHAEL F. MORRIS, M.D.

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The study looked at new ways to measure if treatment for Hepatitis C worked for people who inject drugs. Researchers found that checking the virus levels four weeks after treatment (called SVR4) and the results at the end of treatment were good indicators of whether the treatment was successful 12 weeks later. This matters because it offers quicker ways to determine if a patient is cured, which can improve health outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with Hepatitis C and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how a specific statistical model is used to evaluate the accuracy of forensic examiners when they identify or exclude potential matches in black-box studies. The researchers found that the model relies on hidden scores that can't be fully measured, which makes the results uncertain and potentially misleading. This is important because it means that the conclusions drawn about examiner performance may not be as reliable as previously thought. Who this helps: This information helps forensic scientists and legal professionals improve the accuracy of forensic testing outcomes.

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This study looked at how different types of ketone supplements—specifically two forms of beta-hydroxybutyrate (D-BHB and L-BHB) and a ketone precursor (1,3-butanediol or BD)—affect the liver in mice. Researchers found that both D-BHB and L-BHB boosted energy levels in the liver, while BD led to decreased energy and increased stress in liver cells. This matters because it suggests that while D-BHB and L-BHB can be beneficial, 1,3-butanediol may be harmful to the liver. Who this helps: Patients considering ketone supplements for health or weight management.

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In this study, researchers evaluated a matchmaking event designed to connect experienced research mentors with underrepresented minority trainees in science. Out of 99 registered trainees, 92 participated, and many found successful mentor matches, with 57% establishing a connection and 27% planning to apply for additional funding. This is significant because it helps level the playing field in research careers for historically marginalized groups by creating opportunities for valuable mentorship and funding. Who this helps: This benefits underrepresented minority trainees in STEMM fields.

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The study looked at a new way to help people who inject drugs (PWID) get treatment for hepatitis C by using their injecting partners as support and guides. Researchers will test this method on 250 PWID and their partners in San Francisco to see if it helps more people start treatment for hepatitis C, with a goal of improving treatment rates and outcomes. If successful, this approach could change how health services help marginalized groups access important medical care. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis C, especially those who inject drugs and face barriers to treatment.

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This study looked at adults experiencing homelessness in California to understand how many are using illicit drugs, their treatment access, and their experiences with overdoses. The findings showed that about 65.3% have used illicit drugs regularly at some point in their lives, 37.1% reported regular drug use in the past six months, and 21.2% wanted treatment but were not receiving it. These results highlight a significant issue: many people facing homelessness struggle with substance use and lack access to the treatment they need. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing homelessness and the organizations that support them.

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This study looked at how a pharmacy team helped people diagnosed with hepatitis C start treatment right away, especially those from vulnerable communities like the homeless and drug users. Out of 87 participants, most were homeless (61%), actively using drugs (80%), and nearly all lived below the poverty line (97%). Ninety percent were able to switch to treatment covered by insurance shortly after starting, thanks to support from the pharmacy team that helped with insurance issues and medication access. Who this helps: This benefits patients diagnosed with hepatitis C, particularly those facing social and economic challenges.

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The study looked at how often people who inject drugs (PWID) share their hepatitis C virus (HCV) test results with their injecting partners. It found that 91% of participants had been tested for HCV, with 57% reporting they were positive for the virus. Disclosure of HCV status was high overall at 79%, but it was more common among partners both infected (41%) than in mixed-status partnerships (17% for one positive and 32% for neither positive), highlighting the importance of open communication for preventing further infections and linking individuals to treatment. Who this helps: This information benefits both patients living with HCV and healthcare providers working to improve treatment and prevention efforts.

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This study looked at how taking exogenous ketones (specifically BHB) along with a lower-calorie diet affects body composition and metabolic health in overweight and obese adults. Over 8 weeks, those taking BHB lost about 2 kilograms of fat and improved their body fat percentage, while lean muscle mass remained stable. This matters because it shows a way to lose fat without losing muscle, as well as benefiting cholesterol levels without negative effects on other health markers. Who this helps: This helps overweight and obese patients looking for effective weight loss strategies.

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This study looked at how many faculty members at a large health university in the U.S. act as informal caregivers, focusing on their demographics and experiences. About 11.4% of the 657 surveyed faculty were informal caregivers, with women being more likely to be caregivers than men. The findings showed that these caregivers face challenges like lack of support and unrealistic job expectations, which can hinder their careers, especially for women. Who this helps: This benefits faculty members, particularly women in academic health fields.

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This study focused on creating and implementing a training program on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for health research professionals at a large academic institution. After attending four training sessions, participants showed significant increases in their understanding of DEI concepts, with a notable rise in awareness of disparities in mentoring and advancement opportunities, especially among underrepresented racial and ethnic minority group attendees. This matters because increasing DEI knowledge and skills can help create a more inclusive and equitable workplace in health research. Who this helps: This benefits health research professionals, particularly those from underrepresented groups.

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Researchers studied different mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to understand how they affect responses to cancer treatments, particularly in lung cancer and glioblastoma. They found that out of about 22,500 mutations tested, some variants in lung cancer cells were resistant to common drugs like erlotinib but responsive to others like afatinib and dacomitinib. This is important because it opens up new treatment options for patients with specific EGFR mutations that were previously not effectively targeted. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, particularly those with lung cancer and certain glioblastoma mutations.

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This study looked at how a new telemedicine program could help people who inject drugs and are infected with Hepatitis C. Researchers provided treatment in a community setting with support from on-site staff, which improved access and trust. The results showed that this approach is effective and important for reaching marginalized groups who might otherwise struggle to receive care, making it easier for them to get diagnosed and treated. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those who inject drugs and face barriers to healthcare.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected efforts to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) among young people aged 18-30 and those without stable homes in San Francisco. Before the pandemic, about 77% of this group had antibodies for HCV, but testing and treatment dropped significantly during COVID-19—testing was down by 53.8% and treatment by 40.7%. If current testing and treatment rates continue, the study predicts a decrease in new HCV cases of about 83.3% by 2030, though improvements to housing and opioid treatments could boost success rates even higher. Who this helps: This research benefits young people who inject drugs, especially those facing housing instability.

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The PROPEL program was created to provide training and career support for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical fields who want to pursue advanced degrees like a PhD or MD/PhD. Since its launch in 2020, the program has expanded from 6 participants to over 100, making it the largest of its kind in the U.S. This matters because it helps increase diversity in the scientific workforce, which is essential for innovation and equitable access to careers in science and medicine. Who this helps: This helps aspiring scientists from underrepresented backgrounds.

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This research studied ways to connect trial networks that are disconnected, which makes it hard to fairly compare different treatments. By developing a new method to identify the best trial to connect these networks, the researchers found that connecting treatments indirectly can provide better estimates for comparisons than connecting them directly. For example, their approach could result in smaller variations in effect estimation, improving the accuracy of findings. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare providers working on treatment comparisons and improvements in patient care.

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This study examined how often firearm examiners make mistakes when determining whether cartridge cases came from the same gun or different guns. Out of 218 examiners, 0.37% incorrectly stated that a case matched a different firearm (false elimination), and 1.01% mistakenly identified cases from the same firearm as coming from different guns (false identification). These findings are significant because they show that the error rates in expert assessments are relatively low and comparable to the quality of marks made by the firearms being tested. Who this helps: This benefits forensic scientists and law enforcement agencies involved in gun crime investigations.

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This study looked at how accurately examiners identify similarities and differences between cartridge cases found at crime scenes. Researchers found that examiners incorrectly identified cartridge cases about 1% of the time and incorrectly eliminated cases from the same source about 0.37% of the time. These findings matter because they highlight inconsistencies in how examiners classify evidence, which can impact criminal cases. Who this helps: This helps forensic examiners and law enforcement by improving the accuracy of ballistic evidence evaluations.

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This study looked at how effective hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing and treatment are in reducing new infections among men who have sex with men and also inject drugs in San Francisco. It found that even with a drop in testing and treatment during COVID-19 lockdowns, HCV infections among this group are expected to decrease by over 80% from 2015 to 2030 if testing and treatment keep improving. This is important because reaching the World Health Organization’s goal for HCV elimination could significantly reduce health issues related to the virus. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly men who have sex with men and inject drugs.

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This research focused on understanding how to accurately identify and analyze brain injuries caused by trauma using a detailed manual process to outline the injury areas in brain scans. The team created 127 precise maps of the injuries, which are important for studying how these injuries might lead to post-traumatic epilepsy, a serious condition that can develop after a brain injury. This work is crucial because it helps ensure that future research can identify patterns that predict epilepsy more reliably and improve treatment options. Who this helps: This is beneficial for patients with traumatic brain injuries and their doctors as it improves understanding and management of potential complications like epilepsy.

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This study looked at how disciplinary actions that remove students from school, known as exclusionary school discipline (ESD), affect students’ grades, especially focusing on different racial and ethnic groups. It found that 21.4% of the nearly 17,000 students studied experienced ESD, with Black students facing it 10 times more often than White students and Latine students about 3 times more often. Those who went through these disciplinary events had an average grade point average (GPA) drop of 0.88 points in the first year, which continued to decline in subsequent years, highlighting a significant negative impact on their education. Who this helps: This helps students, particularly those from minoritized backgrounds, by highlighting the need for fairer disciplinary practices in schools.

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This study explored a new way to treat hepatitis C directly in community settings for people who are often overlooked, such as those experiencing homelessness or using drugs. Out of 492 people tested, half had hepatitis C, and of those eligible for treatment, 98% accepted it. After 12 weeks of treatment, 67% of participants were cured, showing that this approach can make hepatitis C treatment more accessible and effective for marginalized populations. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hepatitis C, especially those in vulnerable communities.

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This study looked at how low-income residents of San Francisco, specifically those who use drugs, were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of 145 people surveyed, 70% changed their social behaviors, with 68% identifying as drug users. Among these users, 40% faced more difficulty in accessing drugs, 33% had reduced access to drug treatment, and 41% were more concerned about overdoses. Despite this, those who used drugs reported better access to food and medical care compared to non-users, indicating that the pandemic had both positive and negative effects on their lives. Who this helps: This information benefits low-income patients, healthcare providers, and social support organizations working with drug users.

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This study looked at how hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads among young people who inject drugs by examining relationships between them. Researchers found that out of 32 groups of injecting partners, 12 showed a strong genetic connection in their HCV strains, indicating shared infections. Importantly, they discovered that most transmission events actually came from outside these partnerships, emphasizing that sexual relationships and fewer network connections played a role in spreading the virus. Who this helps: This research helps public health officials and healthcare providers understand and target the transmission of hepatitis C among vulnerable drug-using populations.

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This study looked at deaths caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in San Francisco from 1999 to 2019. They found that there were 1,819 deaths related to HCV, with higher rates among specific groups, particularly Black individuals (32.2 deaths per 100,000) and older adults aged 55 and over (28.0). Since 2015, San Francisco has made significant strides in reducing these deaths faster than both California and the U.S. overall, and it's projected that the city will reach the target of reducing HCV-related deaths by 65% by 2030, possibly even sooner. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for Hepatitis C and healthcare providers focusing on treatment and prevention.

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This study looked at a new community-based approach to testing and treating hepatitis C among people who inject drugs in Kerman, Iran. Out of 171 participants, 62 tested positive for hepatitis C antibodies, and 47 of these were confirmed to have the virus. Remarkably, 94.4% of those eligible for treatment started antiviral therapy, and 76.5% achieved viral clearance after 12 weeks, showing that this approach can effectively reach at-risk individuals and improve treatment access. Who this helps: This benefits people who inject drugs by providing easier access to testing and treatment for hepatitis C.

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This study looked at the number of people in San Francisco who have hepatitis C (HCV) from 2015 to 2019, updating earlier estimates to include more data on treatment. They found that in 2019, about 22,585 people had been infected with HCV, with about 11,582 of them still untreated, which is roughly 1.3% of the city's population. The study highlights the effectiveness of San Francisco's health programs in treating HCV, especially among specific groups like people who inject drugs, who make up a large portion of those affected. Who this helps: This information benefits public health officials and healthcare providers working to treat and prevent hepatitis C in high-risk populations.

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This study focused on a genetic mutation in fruit flies that affects their growth and development. Researchers found that the mutation caused the flies to have stunted head growth and darkened eyes, leading to their death before they fully developed. They identified a specific gene responsible for this mutation that is known to disrupt the normal cell cycle, indicating it may also impact other species in similar ways. Who this helps: This research helps scientists understand genetic mutations that can lead to developmental issues in various organisms.

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This study looked at the challenges faced by women in the U.S. who use methamphetamine, focusing on their experiences with violence and the risk of HIV/AIDS. Among 209 women surveyed, 66% reported experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) during their lives and 20% had encountered IPV in the last two months. The findings indicate that methamphetamine use increases the likelihood of experiencing violence and having unprotected sex, which raises the risk of HIV. Who this helps: This helps women who use methamphetamine, healthcare providers, and organizations focused on HIV prevention and domestic violence support.

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This study looked at whether including Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores in applications affects how reviewers rate underrepresented minority (URM) doctoral applicants in two programs at the University of California San Francisco. The researchers found that not showing GRE scores did not change the scores given to URM applicants or non-URM applicants, indicating that GRE scores neither benefit nor harm URM applicants. This is important because it suggests that graduate programs can consider other factors without unfairly disadvantaging minority applicants. Who this helps: This helps underrepresented minority applicants seeking admission to doctoral programs.

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This study looked at how well three high-risk groups—young people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men and inject drugs, and low-income trans women—are doing in terms of care for hepatitis C. It found that a significant number of young people (58.4%) and men (29.4%) have the virus, but only a small percentage have started treatment (9.1% for young people and 28.4% for men), even though cure rates for those treated were relatively good (50% for young people, 38.9% for men). The results highlight the urgent need to get more people into treatment, especially among young people who inject drugs. Who this helps: Patients at risk of hepatitis C and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on people who inject drugs (PWID) in San Francisco and looked at their experiences with hepatitis C virus (HCV) care. Researchers found that in 2018, 88% of PWID had been tested for HCV, 63% tested positive, and only 42% of those diagnosed received treatment. Although treatment rates improved from 19% in 2015 to 42% in 2018, more than half of those diagnosed still did not receive treatment, highlighting the need for better healthcare access, especially for those without insurance. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those who inject drugs and may not have regular healthcare access.

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This study investigated the differences in bone quality between osteopenic women who have suffered fractures and those who haven’t. Researchers analyzed bone tissue from 59 women with fractures and 59 without, finding two specific measurements (1244/1268 and 1044/959 ratios) that could indicate fracture risk, with odds ratios of 0.617 and 1.656, meaning these measurements show a significant association with previous fractures. This research is important because it highlights that changes in the structure of collagen in bones may be a key factor in understanding fractures in these women. Who this helps: This helps osteopenic women at risk for fractures and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on using a new imaging technique called short-wave infrared (SWIR) light to better assess burn injuries and distinguish between superficial and deep burns. The researchers found that this method accurately measured tissue moisture levels, which helped identify burn depth in a pig model, confirming the results with tissue samples. This is important because existing tools fail to correctly diagnose burn depth in over 40% of cases, leading to potentially serious treatment errors. Who this helps: This benefits patients with burn injuries and healthcare providers involved in their treatment.

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This study looked at the experiences of members of the Society for Epidemiologic Research to see how different social identities affect their feelings of inclusion and participation in the society. Out of 1,631 members surveyed, most were white (62%) and female (66%), and it found that white men felt the most welcomed, while women and members of racial or religious minorities participated less in society activities. This research highlights important gaps in inclusion that can help shape future efforts to make the society more diverse and welcoming. Who this helps: This benefits members of the society, particularly women and minority groups.

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This study looked at how the loss of a specific protein called BMPR1A in bone cells affects the amount and quality of bone in different parts of the body, specifically in mice. The researchers found that when BMPR1A was not functioning, there was more bone mass in both the ribs and spines—ribs had about 30% more bone mass and spines had increased mineral content—without changing the overall structure dramatically. Understanding these differences is important because it could lead to better treatments for bone diseases by targeting specific areas of the body. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bone disorders by informing targeted treatment options.

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This research paper discusses the efforts of the Society for Epidemiologic Research to improve diversity and inclusion among its members, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. They conducted a survey to identify areas for improvement and launched initiatives, such as outreach programs and educational workshops, to engage a broader range of members. This matters because increasing diversity can enhance public health discoveries and ensure that different perspectives are considered in research. Who this helps: This helps researchers, students, and public health professionals from diverse backgrounds.

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This study looked at how housing stability affects the risk of hepatitis C infection in young adults who inject drugs. Researchers followed 712 participants from 2003 to 2019 and found that those who were always homeless had a much higher risk of hepatitis C, with 45 infections for every 100 person-years compared to just 7 for those who were always housed. This is important because it shows that having stable housing can significantly lower the risk of hepatitis C among young drug users. Who this helps: This helps young adults who inject drugs, especially those experiencing homelessness.

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This study looked at how radiation therapy for soft tissue sarcomas affects different parts of the bone in mice. The researchers found that after radiation, the inner part of the bone changed more significantly compared to the outer parts, with some changes noticeable as soon as two weeks later. These changes in bone composition, which make bones weaker, can increase the risk of fractures in cancer patients treated with radiation, highlighting the importance of monitoring bone health in these individuals. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer.

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This study looked at young adults in San Francisco who inject drugs and have hepatitis C to see how many received treatment with direct-acting antiviral medications. Out of 60 people identified, only 30 accepted a referral to treatment, just five actually started and completed it, but all five were cured. The findings highlight that many young people face barriers, such as fear of healthcare and competing life challenges, which prevent them from getting the help they need. Who this helps: This helps young adults with hepatitis C who inject drugs, as well as healthcare providers aiming to improve treatment access.

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This study looked at how California's Proposition 47, which changed certain drug possession crimes from felonies to misdemeanors, affected the punishment severity across different counties. After Prop-47 passed, the likelihood of getting a felony conviction for drug possession dropped significantly—from 20% to 6%, a decline of 14 percentage points. The study found that counties with previously higher felony conviction rates saw the biggest changes, leading to more equal outcomes statewide, and there were no increases in felony convictions for other types of offenses. Who this helps: This benefits individuals arrested for drug offenses, as they face less severe punishments across California.

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This study looked at how the level of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the blood affects the spread of the virus among young adults who inject drugs. Researchers followed 69 high-risk individuals and found that there were 25 new HCV infections, with almost half linked to an injecting partner. They discovered that while the amount of virus in the blood of an infected person didn't impact the likelihood of spreading the virus, being newly infected significantly increased the risk of transmission. Who this helps: This helps young adults who inject drugs and healthcare providers working to reduce hepatitis C transmission.

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This study examined how trust, cooperation, intimacy, and power dynamics between people who inject drugs influence their perceptions of risk when sharing needles and other injecting equipment. Researchers interviewed 27 individuals and found that these interpersonal factors impact how safe or risky partners feel about their drug use, with trust and cooperation often leading to lower perceived risks. This is important because understanding these personal relationships can help create better prevention strategies to reduce the spread of HIV and hepatitis C among drug users. Who this helps: This benefits patients who inject drugs and the healthcare providers working to support them.

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This study looked at how the age of injection partners and their knowledge of hepatitis C virus (HCV) status impacted the rate of HCV infections among young adults in San Francisco who inject drugs. Researchers found that the rate of new HCV infections was highest among those whose partners were mostly younger than 30 and who knew that at least one partner was HCV-positive, with an incidence rate of 58.9 new infections per 100 person-years. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing better prevention strategies to stop the rising HCV rates in young people. Who this helps: This research benefits young adults who inject drugs, clinicians, and public health officials aiming to reduce HCV infections.

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This study looked at how well bone created in a lab using stem cells from mouse skulls compares to natural bone from newborn mice. After 28 days of growing the cells, the lab-made bone showed similar mineral quality to that of the mice but had less organized collagen structure. This is important because it helps scientists understand the potential of using stem cells for repairing bone defects, even though the lab-created bone isn't quite as strong as natural bone. Who this helps: This helps researchers and medical professionals working on bone repair treatments.