PAUL ANDERS JACOBSON, M.D.

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This study looked at how weight loss from bariatric surgery affects cancer rates in women and men. Researchers found that women who had surgery experienced a 22% lower rate of developing cancer overall and a 40% lower rate of female-specific cancers, especially if they had high insulin levels before the surgery. This is important because it highlights the potential benefits of targeted weight loss surgeries in reducing cancer risks for women with obesity. Who this helps: This research benefits women with obesity, particularly those at higher risk of specific cancers.

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This study looked at the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over 20 years. It found that patients who had bariatric surgery were 32.1 percentage points less likely to still have OSA compared to those who received standard obesity treatment, and they were also 5.8 percentage points less likely to develop new OSA. These results are important because they show that bariatric surgery can provide lasting benefits for sleep apnea, improving patients' overall health and quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with obesity and sleep apnea.

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This study looked at how a delay in developing type 2 diabetes affects life expectancy in people with obesity over a long period. Researchers followed nearly 3,000 participants for over 26 years and found that those who developed diabetes within two years had a death rate of 18.3 per 1,000 person-years, while those who remained diabetes-free had a lower death rate of 10.9. Specifically, having diabetes cut life expectancy by 3.7 years and increased the risk of dying from heart-related issues. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with obesity and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of delaying diabetes development.

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This study focused on patients with Fanconi anemia who underwent a specific type of transplant and were treated with the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide. Researchers found that 32.5% of these patients experienced a painful bladder condition called hemorrhagic cystitis after treatment. Although certain genetic variations in the CYP2B6 gene seemed to potentially increase the risk of this condition—increasing it from 20% to 42% among patients with one variant—none of these differences were statistically significant, indicating more research is needed to confirm any links. Who this helps: This research could benefit patients with Fanconi anemia who are facing treatment for their condition.

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This study looked at the health outcomes of people who lost a lot of weight through surgery in Sweden and then either regained some of that weight or maintained their new lower weight. Researchers found that while both groups had similar rates of death and cancer, those who regained more than 20% of their weight had a higher risk of small blood vessel diseases, with 11 incidents per 1,000 person-years compared to 8.7 in those who maintained their weight. This is important because it shows that regaining weight can lead to increased vascular health problems, even if it doesn't affect overall life expectancy. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who have undergone weight loss surgery and their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at how copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) molecules arrange themselves on a special type of surface called InO(111), which is important for making electronic devices. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques and found that when there is one CuPc molecule per surface unit, it fully covers the area in a tightly packed arrangement, but as more molecules are added, they group into chains and then form a well-ordered structure. This is significant because stable layers of such materials are crucial for improving the performance of organic electronics. Who this helps: This benefits engineers and scientists working on advanced electronic devices.

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This study looked at how metabolic bariatric surgery (a weight-loss surgery) affects the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) and dying from alcohol-related causes. Researchers followed over 4,000 people for about 25 years and found that those who had gastric bypass surgery were more likely to develop AUD, with a risk more than five times higher than those who didn't have surgery. This is important because it highlights the need for careful monitoring and support for patients after surgery, especially for those at higher risk of alcohol problems. Who this helps: This helps patients who undergo bariatric surgery and the medical professionals caring for them.

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This study looked at a new way to create materials that can conduct electricity with zero resistance, known as superconductivity, by adding a lot of gallium (Ga) to germanium (Ge) using a special growth technique. Researchers found that by hyperdoping Ga into Ge, they achieved superconductivity at a temperature of 3.5 Kelvin, which is quite cold but still significant in the field. This research highlights how carefully controlling the arrangement of Ga in Ge can lead to new types of superconductors that work well with existing semiconductor technology. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working on advanced electronic devices and quantum technology.

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This study looked at how the way control groups are chosen in obesity research might affect the results, particularly in studies of obesity treatments like bariatric surgery. Researchers found that control participants with a prior obesity diagnosis had a higher death rate (19.7 deaths per 1,000 person-years) compared to those without such a diagnosis (14.4 deaths per 1,000 person-years), which means people with diagnosed obesity have a shorter life expectancy by about 3.4 years. This is important because it shows that if researchers don’t pick control groups carefully, they might overestimate how effective obesity treatments are. Who this helps: Patients seeking obesity treatment options and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at what makes some radiology reports rated highly by patients while others get poor ratings. Out of 135 responses, 78% of patients rated their reports highly, and reports that were structured received a better rating (93.5% vs. 70.8% for freeform reports). This matters because it shows that organized, clear reports are preferred, which can help patients understand their medical information better. Who this helps: Patients receiving radiology reports.

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This study looked at how genetics affect the drug tacrolimus in African American kidney transplant patients, who generally have worse outcomes. Researchers compared patients with very high and very low levels of the drug in their system. They found that the average drug levels were 7.7 ng/ml in the high group and 6.3 ng/ml in the low group, even though patients in the high group took less of the drug (5 mg vs. 12 mg). Though they identified over 1,400 genetic variants that might influence drug levels, none were significant after further testing. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating African American kidney transplant patients by highlighting the need for personalized medication approaches.

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This study looked at whether bariatric surgery lowers the risk of breast cancer in women with obesity and how insulin levels influence this risk. The researchers found that among 2,867 women, those who had bariatric surgery experienced fewer cases of breast cancer—66 in the surgery group compared to 88 in the usual care group—resulting in a 32% lower risk for the surgery group overall. Notably, women with higher insulin levels (above 15.8 µIU/L) saw an even greater reduction in risk, with a 52% lower chance of developing breast cancer after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits women with obesity, especially those with high insulin levels.

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This study looked at how well a specific dosing model works for determining the right amount of a drug called tacrolimus in African American kidney transplant patients. Researchers analyzed data from 232 patients and found that the model initially overestimated the drug levels, with a mean prediction error of 3.05 ng/mL three days after the transplant, which improved to 0.78 ng/mL by six months. This research matters because using more accurate dosing could lead to better treatment outcomes for these patients, ensuring they receive the right amount of medication during their recovery. Who this helps: This helps African American kidney transplant patients.

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This study looked at how diabetes remission after weight-loss surgery or typical care affects long-term survival in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. It found that after two years, 71.9% of those who had surgery achieved remission compared to only 16.5% of those who received usual care. Those in remission had a significantly lower death rate (16.6 deaths per 1,000 person-years) compared to those not in remission (26.0 deaths per 1,000 person-years), translating to an increased life expectancy of about 2.5 years for those in remission. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes, healthcare providers, and those considering weight-loss surgery.

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This study looked at using telemonitoring to track and assess flare-ups in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Researchers analyzed 387 weeks of data and found 18 flare-ups, categorized as 4 mild, 13 moderate, and 1 severe. These results show that telemonitoring can effectively assess the severity of COPD flare-ups, which is important for managing the condition better. Who this helps: This helps COPD patients and their doctors.

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This study looked at how bariatric surgery affects recovery from painful conditions in the knees, ankles, back, hips, and other areas compared to standard obesity treatments. It found that people who had surgery experienced greater improvements in knee and ankle pain within 1 to 4 years, and they also developed new pain less often than those who received usual care. Specifically, bariatric surgery led to better recovery and less chance of developing new pain in weight-bearing joints over time. Who this helps: This helps patients considering bariatric surgery for obesity.

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This study looked at how obesity and bariatric (weight loss) surgery affect the development of osteoarthritis and hip or knee surgeries in overweight individuals over a long period. The researchers found that people who had bariatric surgery had a lower rate of hip osteoarthritis (5.3 cases per 100 people) compared to those getting regular obesity care (6.6 cases per 100 people), but they had more knee surgeries (7.4 cases per 100 for the surgery group vs. 5.6 for the controls). This matters because while surgery may help with hip problems, it seems to increase the need for knee surgeries. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with obesity and related joint issues.

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This study looked at how different conditions affect the growth of two types of metal-organic frameworks on a copper surface. Researchers found that, even though both frameworks are made from the same materials, they formed different structures due to varying reaction conditions. This finding is important because it shows how the environment can influence the final shape and properties of these materials, which are useful in various applications like drug delivery and sensors. Who this helps: This helps researchers and manufacturers working on advanced materials for technology and medicine.

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This study explored a technique using terahertz (THz) waves to check the quality of the surface in advanced quantum devices, focusing on how these surfaces are modified with a special type of material called a doped layer. The researchers found that when they used THz waves, they could clearly see features that indicated the presence of this doped layer and measure its thickness and properties accurately. This matters because improving the surface quality can enhance the performance of quantum devices, which are important for technologies like advanced computing and secure communications. Who this helps: This helps researchers and engineers working on quantum technologies.

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This study looked at how certain materials used in superconducting circuits, which are crucial for quantum computing, cause energy loss and impact performance. Researchers found a specific vibration pattern, called the boson peak, in tantalum films at around 0.5 THz, indicating the presence of defects that can lead to energy loss. Understanding these defects can help improve how these circuits are made, making them more efficient and effective. Who this helps: This helps engineers and researchers developing superconducting quantum devices.

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This study looked at how a new treatment for cystic fibrosis, called triple-combination therapy (ETI), affects patients' sense of smell, body weight, and overall quality of life. After three months on ETI, 41 patients reported a significant improvement in their sense of smell and quality of life, and their body mass index (BMI) also increased. However, the study found that the improved sense of smell did not directly influence these other areas, indicating that other factors might also play a role in these improvements. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with cystic fibrosis and their doctors by providing insight into how new therapies impact various aspects of health.

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This study examined how bariatric surgery affects life expectancy and causes of death in obese patients with and without type 2 diabetes. It found that patients who had bariatric surgery lived longer—about 2.1 years longer for those with diabetes and 1.6 years longer for those without diabetes—compared to those who received regular obesity care. Surgery also reduced the risk of death from all causes and from heart-related issues in both groups. Who this helps: This benefits obese patients considering surgery, especially those with type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at whether people who had weight-loss surgery (specifically gastric bypass, vertical banded gastroplasty, or gastric banding) were more likely to develop addiction issues with substances other than alcohol. Researchers followed over 2,000 surgery patients and found that those who had gastric bypass had a significantly higher risk of developing a non-alcohol substance use disorder compared to people who didn't have surgery: 1.6 incidents per 1,000 person-years versus 0.6 in control participants. This is important because it highlights a potential long-term risk for gastric bypass patients, which should be monitored in their follow-up care. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) affects the risk of blood cancers in people with obesity compared to those receiving standard care. The results showed that 34 people who had the surgery developed blood cancers compared to 51 people in the usual care group, indicating a lower risk (about 40% less). Additionally, there were significantly fewer deaths from these cancers in the surgery group (3 deaths) compared to the control group (13 deaths), especially among women, suggesting that weight-loss surgery could be an important tool in cancer prevention for individuals struggling with obesity. Who this helps: Patients with obesity, particularly women, seeking to reduce their risk of blood cancers.

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This study looked at blood cell mutations over 20 years in people with obesity, comparing those who received standard treatment and those who had weight-loss surgery. Researchers found that about 20% of both groups had these mutations, and while the size of the mutations increased with age in those receiving standard care, this was not the case for those who had surgery. Additionally, the growth of these mutations was linked to lower levels of good cholesterol, which suggests that managing weight and improving metabolic health can help prevent these potentially harmful mutations. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with obesity and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on cancer rates in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes, comparing 393 surgery patients to 308 who received standard obesity treatment. The results showed that those who had bariatric surgery had a lower cancer rate of 9.1 cases per 1,000 person-years, compared to 14.1 cases per 1,000 for those getting usual care, which represents a 37% reduction in risk. This is important because it highlights how bariatric surgery not only helps with weight loss but can also significantly lower the risk of developing cancer in these patients. Who this helps: Patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at a specific gene related to fat tissue, called SLC19A3, to understand its role in obesity and weight loss. Researchers found that this gene is more active in the fat under the skin compared to deeper fat, especially in people with lower body weight. Importantly, its activity decreases in people with high body mass index (BMI) and increases when they lose weight. Understanding this gene can help improve treatments for obesity. Who this helps: Patients trying to lose weight and manage obesity.

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This study looked at how the shape and stability of motor molecules change when they are attached to a metal surface. Researchers found that the motor molecules adopt different shapes when they are on the surface compared to when they are in a solution, which can affect their performance. Understanding these changes is important because it helps to improve the design and function of molecular motors in various applications. Who this helps: This helps scientists and engineers working on molecular machines and related technologies.

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This study focused on a new way to create thin films of InGaAs, a material that might replace silicon in electronic devices and solar panels. Researchers successfully grew these films at nearly room temperature using a technique called electrochemical liquid-liquid-solid, which is cheaper and more efficient than traditional methods. They found that as they increased the amount of indium in the process, the quality of the films improved, although there was some variance in the expected indium-to-gallium ratios. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies working on better electronic devices and solar energy technologies.

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This study looked at how fat in thigh muscles and energy use in muscles relate to inflammation and symptoms in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Researchers found that 32 patients with stable COPD had unusual muscle composition, where more fat in the thigh muscles was linked to higher inflammation and worse muscle energy levels, affecting their breathing and physical activity. Specifically, increased fat in the thigh muscles was associated with higher inflammation markers and lower physical activity levels. Who this helps: This information helps doctors better understand muscle health in COPD patients.

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This study looked at people who had weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) to find out who might be at greater risk for suicide and self-harm afterward. It found that surgical patients were nearly twice as likely to harm themselves or commit suicide compared to those who didn't have the surgery (risk ratio of 1.98). Men, individuals with a history of mental health issues, and those with sleep problems were particularly at risk, with men being three times more likely to self-harm post-surgery. Who this helps: This information helps doctors and healthcare providers identify and support patients who may be at higher risk after bariatric surgery.

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This study looked at a teenage patient who showed rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition involving muscle breakdown, as the first sign of COVID-19. The patient's creatinine kinase levels, which indicate muscle damage, were nearly 400,000 units per liter, much higher than normal. This finding emphasizes the importance of recognizing unusual symptoms of COVID-19 early to prevent severe complications. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers by improving their understanding of COVID-19 symptoms in adolescents.

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This study looked at how varying doses of a medication called mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), based on patients' body weight, affected outcomes in 680 adults after they received blood stem cell transplants. The results showed that higher MMF doses lowered the risk of developing acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) but led to a higher chance of cancer returning: at 30 days post-transplant, the GVHD rates were 30%, 20%, 16%, and 19% across different dosing groups, while the relapse rates after a year were 16%, 25%, 27%, and 31%. This matters because finding the right balance in MMF dose could improve patient outcomes after transplant. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing stem cell transplants.

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This study looked at how bariatric surgery affects kidney damage in obese patients over 15 years. The research found that patients who had surgery saw a 36.5% reduction in urinary albumin levels compared to those who received standard obesity treatment. Specifically, those with mild kidney damage (microalbuminuria) had a significantly higher chance of returning to normal kidney function and a lower chance of worsening kidney damage after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity-related kidney issues and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on improving the involvement of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people in genetic research to ensure that medical advancements benefit all populations, not just those well-represented in studies. Researchers found that building trust through community-based partnership approaches can help increase AI/AN participation in research. By creating recommendations for how researchers can work respectfully with AI/AN communities, the study aims to address health disparities in these populations. Who this helps: Patients from American Indian and Alaska Native communities benefit most from this approach.

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This study looked at whether having a final CT scan report from a radiologist before making decisions in the emergency department helps patients with abdominal pain. They found that it made no significant difference in important outcomes such as being admitted to the hospital (about 37% of patients were admitted with a preliminary report and 38% with a final report), readmission rates, the need for a second surgery, or death. This matters because it suggests that having a preliminary report from an experienced resident is just as effective for patient care as waiting for a final report from a specialist. Who this helps: This helps emergency department doctors and the patients they treat.

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This study focused on a protein called SLC7A10, which plays a role in how fat cells store fat and manage stress from food. Researchers found that when SLC7A10 levels are lower, fat cells become larger and lead to more weight gain and insulin resistance; for example, in zebrafish with reduced SLC7A10 function, weight gain increased significantly. By improving the functioning of SLC7A10, there's potential to reduce fat cell size, fight insulin resistance, and help in managing type 2 diabetes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on the risk of colorectal cancer in people with obesity. Over a median follow-up of 22 years, 58 patients who had surgery developed colorectal cancer compared to 67 patients who received standard obesity treatment. The results showed no significant difference in overall colorectal cancer risk, though surgery was linked to a lower risk of rectal cancer (19 cases in the surgery group vs. 31 in the control group). Who this helps: Patients with obesity considering bariatric surgery.

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This study looked at how often patients experienced low blood sugar episodes after having weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) compared to those who received standard obesity treatment over a period of up to 31 years. Researchers found that among non-diabetic patients, those who had bariatric surgery experienced significantly more hypoglycemia-related events, with 168 events in the surgery group versus 219 in the usual care group. This is important because it highlights that while bariatric surgery can aid weight loss, it may also lead to higher risks of low blood sugar, especially in the early years after surgery. Who this helps: This information benefits patients considering bariatric surgery and their doctors, allowing them to make more informed decisions about treatment options.

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This study looked at lung cancer death rates among American Indians and Alaska Natives in Minnesota, which are twice as high as those in other racial groups. Researchers found that about one-third of lung cancer patients, both American Indian and non-American Indian, received genetic testing for mutations that could guide treatment, showing no significant difference between the two groups in testing rates. This means that higher death rates in American Indians are likely caused by reasons other than disparities in genetic testing, suggesting the need to address other health care and social factors affecting this community. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by highlighting the need for broader solutions to improve lung cancer outcomes for American Indians.

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This study looked at how different types of weight-loss surgery affect the risk of fractures in people who are obese, tracking over 2,000 patients for up to 26 years. The researchers found that those who had gastric bypass surgery experienced a fracture rate of 22.9 per 1,000 person-years, which is significantly higher than those who had other types of surgery or did not have surgery at all. This matters because it shows that gastric bypass patients face a much greater risk of fractures, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring of their bone health. Who this helps: This helps patients who are considering bariatric surgery, especially those opting for gastric bypass.

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This study looked at the use of hydroxychloroquine to prevent COVID-19, especially in people who are at higher risk, like healthcare workers and those with weakened immune systems. Researchers found that an initial dose of 800 mg, followed by either 400 mg twice or three times a week, would keep drug levels effective in more than 50% of participants. This information is important because it helps guide future research on how to safely use hydroxychloroquine to protect vulnerable people from COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps high-risk patients and healthcare workers.

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This study looked at whether certain prediction models could identify patients at risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) relapse long after they had bariatric surgery and were initially in remission. Researchers examined data from 222 patients over 10 to 15 years and found that existing prediction models were not very effective, scoring below 0.70 on a scale where 1.0 indicates perfect accuracy; however, weight change after two years showed better predictive power (0.70 at 10 years and 0.78 at 15 years). This matters because it highlights the importance of significant early weight loss after surgery for maintaining long-term diabetes control. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and healthcare professionals managing their care.

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This study looked at ways to improve gut health in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by analyzing their gut bacteria and making specific recommendations about diet and lifestyle. Researchers followed 88 participants for 30 days and found that their average symptom score dropped significantly from 160 to 100.9, with the mixed IBS subtype experiencing the biggest improvement (a 102-point decrease). This research is important because it shows that tailored interventions based on gut microbiome analysis can lead to substantial symptom relief in IBS patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with irritable bowel syndrome seeking better management of their symptoms.

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This study looked at how a specific gene variation on chromosome 9p21.3 affects the risk of heart attacks in people who undergo weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery). Researchers found that patients with this gene variation who had high fasting insulin levels experienced fewer heart attacks after surgery—specifically, the rate was 28% lower compared to those who received standard care. This is important because it shows that certain patients might get significant heart health benefits from weight-loss surgery based on their genetic makeup and insulin levels. Who this helps: Patients with obesity who have the 9p21.3 gene variation and high fasting insulin levels.

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This study looked at a new way to treat occipital neuralgia (ON), which causes sharp pain in the back of the head. A 64-year-old man tried several treatments, including medication and physical therapy, but still had headaches on 15 days each month. After starting memantine, a medication usually used for Alzheimer's, he reported being completely headache-free and experienced no side effects. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from occipital neuralgia who have not found relief with other treatments.

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This study looked at how bariatric surgery affects the life expectancy of people with obesity compared to standard obesity treatment. Researchers found that patients who had the surgery lived about 3 years longer on average than those who did not, but both groups had a shorter life expectancy than the general population. For example, 22.8% of the surgery group died compared to 26.4% in the standard care group. Who this helps: This research benefits individuals struggling with obesity and healthcare providers by highlighting the potential life-extending effects of bariatric surgery.

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This study looked at how lung immune cells, called macrophages, react to harmful substances in people with chronic airflow limitation (CAL), a condition that makes it hard to breathe. Researchers found that these immune cells are more likely to break apart when exposed to oxidants in patients with CAL compared to healthy individuals. Specifically, the study showed that as the cells become more sensitive to oxidants, it negatively impacts their breathing ability, indicated by a lower forced expiratory volume (FEV). Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic lung conditions and their doctors by providing insights into the inflammatory processes affecting their breathing.