PHILLIP V. MCALLISTER, MD

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This study looked at how effective a new treatment called DaxibotulinumtoxinA (DAXI) is for adults with cervical dystonia, a condition that causes painful neck muscle contractions. Researchers treated 234 patients with DAXI and found that, over time, the dose increased from an average of 244.4 units to 314.7 units, with patients usually needing treatment every 16 weeks. Most patients reported improvements without serious side effects, such as muscle weakness or injection pain, making DAXI a promising option for managing cervical dystonia. Who this helps: This helps patients with cervical dystonia seeking better control of their symptoms.

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This study looked at how providing detailed information to patients about their surgery affects their quality of life after major head and neck surgery. It involved 100 patients and found that those who received better information reported an improved quality of life. This matters because managing patients' expectations leads to a smoother recovery and better overall well-being after such significant procedures. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing head and neck surgery.

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The study tested a new drug called risvodetinib on 137 people with early-stage Parkinson's disease to see if it was safe and well tolerated. Most participants (95%) completed the 12-week treatment without significant issues, and there were no notable differences in side effects between those taking the drug and those given a placebo. While the study didn't show that the drug improves Parkinson's symptoms, it confirmed that risvodetinib is safe enough for further testing. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease looking for new treatment options.

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This research paper reviewed how experts define and measure concepts related to sexual self-identity, which includes how people see themselves in a sexual context. The review analyzed 236 studies from the past 30 years and found 38 different ways to measure sexual self-concept and 16 ways to measure sexual self-schema. Most of the research focused on white, heterosexual women, highlighting the need for future studies to include diverse groups, like LGBTQ+ individuals or those with unique health issues. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and mental health professionals by promoting a better understanding of sexual identity across different populations.

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This study looked at how accurately radiographers can determine the position of nasogastric tubes (NGTs) using chest X-rays. Out of 1,020 assessments, they correctly identified both the NGT's position and whether it was safe for feeding 76% of the time, but made mistakes in 18% of cases regarding safety decisions. This matters because feeding through a misplaced NGT can cause serious harm to patients, and improving accuracy is vital for patient safety. Who this helps: Patients who require nasogastric feeding.

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This study looked at how much benefit patients with cervical dystonia still experienced from botulinum toxin treatments when they wanted to get more injections. It found that, on average, patients still had 45.5% of the treatment's effectiveness remaining about 16 weeks after their last injection before asking for more. This is important because it shows that many patients prefer to receive new treatments before their symptoms fully return, suggesting doctors can personalize treatment plans to better meet patients' needs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cervical dystonia who want timely relief from their symptoms.

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This study looked at how vultures decide where to find food by tracking the movements of 61 Iberian griffon vultures and analyzing 49 carcasses in two areas with varying amounts of dead animals. The research found that vultures are more influenced by how far they have to fly to get to the food rather than how hungry they are. This is important because it shows that vultures are likely to eat whenever they find something close by, which can help us better understand their feeding habits. Who this helps: This information benefits wildlife researchers and conservationists working to protect vulture populations.

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This study examined the long-term safety and effectiveness of repeated treatments with a new medication called DaxibotulinumtoxinA (DAXI) for adults with cervical dystonia, a condition that causes neck muscle spasms. Over the course of 52 weeks, 357 participants received multiple doses of DAXI, with the average dosage increasing from 250 units in the first treatment to 270 units by the fourth treatment. The results showed a significant improvement in symptoms, with average scores indicating a better patient experience, and the medication was found to be safe, with minimal side effects. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cervical dystonia who seek effective treatment options.

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This study focuses on creating an artificial intelligence (AI) system to help with heart disease diagnosis in newborns in Sub-Saharan Africa, where many children die from congenital heart disease (CHD) due to limited access to proper medical care. The researchers are developing a model that allows nurses and non-specialist doctors to perform heart ultrasound scans and get accurate images to send to heart specialists for analysis. They have already collected data from 308 babies and have begun training the AI system, aiming to improve heart disease diagnosis in resource-limited settings. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare workers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

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This study tested a drug called rimegepant to see if it effectively treats migraines in adults who can't take triptans (a common migraine medication) due to side effects or other reasons. Out of 585 participants, 55.9% who took rimegepant experienced pain relief within two hours, compared to just 32.7% in the placebo group. These results highlight rimegepant as a promising option for those who need an alternative to triptans. Who this helps: This helps adults with migraines who cannot use triptans.

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This study looked at two migraine preventive treatments, atogepant and rimegepant, to see which one works better. Researchers found that atogepant, taken daily, led to 1.65 fewer migraine days each month compared to rimegepant, which is taken every other day. Both treatments were found to be similarly safe for patients. Who this helps: Patients who suffer from frequent migraines can benefit from choosing a more effective treatment option.

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This study looked at how well a medication called atogepant works to prevent migraines over time. It found that after starting treatment, 70-81% of participants who had at least a 50% reduction in migraine days continued to see that improvement for at least two to three months, while over 70% maintained their response with continued treatment for a year. This is important because it shows that atogepant can provide long-lasting relief for people suffering from migraines. Who this helps: This benefits patients who experience episodic migraines and are seeking effective long-term treatment options.

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This study looked at how well eptinezumab, a treatment for chronic migraine, works over two years for patients also dealing with medication-overuse headache (MOH). Among 49 patients with MOH, 88% reported their headache days were reduced by half, the severity of their headaches decreased by about 2.2 points on a scale of 10, and their overall disability score improved by an average of 51.9 points. These findings are important because they show that eptinezumab can significantly help patients who suffer from both chronic migraines and MOH, improving their overall quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic migraine and medication-overuse headache.

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Researchers studied whether implanting a type of stem cell (SB623) into the brains of people with chronic motor problems after a serious brain injury could improve their movement. They found that after 24 weeks, participants who received the stem cell treatment had an average improvement of 8.3 points on a motor function scale compared to just 2.3 points in the control group, indicating a significant benefit. This matters because it shows that this kind of cell therapy could help patients regain better motor function and improve their daily lives after a traumatic brain injury. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from chronic motor deficits due to traumatic brain injury.

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This study looked at two medications, atogepant and rimegepant, to see which one is more effective and cost-effective for preventing episodic migraines. It found that atogepant had a higher success rate, with 64.9% of patients experiencing at least a 50% reduction in migraine days, compared to 51.8% for rimegepant. Additionally, atogepant was much less expensive, costing about $15,823 per additional successful treatment, while rimegepant cost $73,029 for the same outcome. This is important because it helps doctors and patients choose a more affordable and effective option for migraine prevention. Who this helps: Patients suffering from episodic migraines.

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This study looked at how patients rated the pain of their headaches and migraines to see how the intensity levels differed between episodic (occasional) and chronic (frequent) migraine sufferers. It found that patients rated migraines as significantly more painful than regular headaches, with chronic migraine patients reporting a higher pain level before they labeled their pain as a migraine (6.8) compared to episodic patients (6.4). Understanding these differences helps doctors better identify and treat migraines based on how patients experience their pain. Who this helps: This research helps patients and doctors better distinguish between headaches and migraines for more effective treatment.

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This study looked at what factors increase the chances of college men committing sexual assault. Researchers analyzed 25 studies and found that key risk factors include beliefs about masculinity, acceptance of rape myths, and a party culture that encourages heavy drinking and casual hookups. These findings highlight the importance of educating students about healthy relationships and promoting a culture that disapproves of sexual assault. Who this helps: This helps college students and campus administrators working on prevention strategies.

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This study looked at the long-term safety and tolerability of atogepant, a medication for preventing episodic migraines, in 685 participants over 40 weeks. The research found that 62.5% of participants reported side effects, with common issues being upper respiratory infections (5.5%) and urinary tract infections (5.3%), but only 3.4% experienced serious side effects (which were not related to the treatment). These findings show that taking atogepant daily is safe and can be considered for longer-term use in people who suffer from migraines. Who this helps: Patients struggling with episodic migraines.

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This study looked at how people's responses to placebo treatments in migraine prevention trials changed from 1990 to 2021. Researchers found that the average positive response to placebo treatments has increased over time, with a notable rise in continuous measures (like the number of migraine-free days) showing an increase with a score of 0.32, meaning a moderate correlation over the years. Understanding this trend is important because it can impact how future clinical trials are designed and interpreted. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on migraine treatments.

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This study looked at how a new telehealth program from Neura Health helped people with headaches. Over 90 days, patients saw a 55% drop in the number of headache days per month, a 16.7% reduction in headache severity, and a significant decrease in disability and emergency visits. This is important because it shows that virtual care can effectively improve the quality of life for headache sufferers, making it easier for them to access specialized care when they need it. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from headaches and migraines by providing them with effective remote medical care.

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This study looked at how intimate partner violence (IPV) affects women in same-gender relationships, revealing that many face unique challenges. Researchers analyzed 19 studies and found issues like mistrust of police, a lack of understanding of abuse within these relationships, and fears that seeking help might reinforce negative stereotypes about LGBTQ+ people. This research is important because it highlights the need for better support and resources tailored to the experiences of queer women facing violence. Who this helps: This helps LGBTQ+ women and the professionals who support them.

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This study looked at how the values about sex that parents share with their children affect their children’s sexual behaviors and feelings as they reach adulthood. Researchers surveyed 351 college students and found that when parents communicated values favoring sexual openness, their children were more likely to have permissive attitudes toward sex and report satisfying sexual experiences. Notably, parent messages about abstinence were linked to higher sexual satisfaction, especially for women. Who this helps: This information can benefit parents and educators by guiding how they communicate about sexual values with young adults.

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This study looked at how self-compassion affects the mental health of women who have experienced sexual violence. Researchers found that among 368 college women, those who had experienced sexual violence reported higher levels of anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, partly due to increased self-criticism and lower self-compassion. This is important because improving self-compassion could help mitigate the negative mental health effects of sexual violence. Who this helps: This research benefits survivors of sexual violence and mental health professionals.

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This study looked at how well virtual reality (VR) can be used to test balance and vision compared to traditional methods. Researchers found that VR testing produced similar results in terms of dynamic visual acuity (DVA)—the ability to see clearly while in motion—as traditional methods, with no major differences in balance or dizziness reported. However, tests showed that participants scored better and felt more balanced when there was no head motion compared to when their heads moved up and down or side to side. Who this helps: This benefits patients with vestibular disorders who need effective assessment and rehabilitation methods.

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This study looked at complications called fistulae that can happen after a surgery to fix cleft palates, trying to see if a newly trained surgeon has different results compared to an experienced surgeon. They found that the overall fistula rate was 8% across 250 surgeries, with certain types of cleft and specific widths of the palate being more prone to issues. The findings show that even newer surgeons can achieve results similar to experienced ones, which is important for ensuring patients get good care regardless of their surgeon's experience. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing cleft palate surgery.

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This study looked at the differences in intimate partner violence (IPV) experiences between Black and White women in the U.S., finding that Black women face higher rates of IPV, more severe injuries, and worse mental health outcomes. Out of numerous research articles reviewed, 21 focused on Black women’s experiences and revealed five key factors related to male violence against them, while seven key factors were tied to female victimization. The study highlighted that factors like emotional abuse and PTSD symptoms were significantly stronger among Black women compared to their White counterparts, which is critical for creating effective support and prevention programs. Who this helps: This research benefits Black women who experience intimate partner violence by informing better targeted interventions.

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This study looked at how eptinezumab, a medication for preventing migraines, affects patients when given during a migraine attack. Researchers found that patients who received eptinezumab reported a significant improvement in their headache symptoms after four weeks, with a score change of about -8.7 compared to -4.5 in those who received a placebo. This matters because it shows that eptinezumab can provide real relief for migraine sufferers when taken during an attack. Who this helps: Patients experiencing migraines.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a medication called eptinezumab is for preventing migraines in people who also experience visual disturbances known as aura. In patients with episodic migraines, those taking eptinezumab had an average reduction of 4.0 days of migraines per month with a 100 mg dose and 4.2 days with a 300 mg dose, compared to 3.1 days with a placebo. For chronic migraine patients, the reductions were even greater, with a 7.1-day reduction at 100 mg and 7.6 days at 300 mg, compared to 6.0 days on placebo. Who this helps: This helps patients who suffer from migraines and experience aura.

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This study looked at the safety of a new migraine treatment called fremanezumab in over 2,800 patients with either episodic or chronic migraines. Researchers found that serious side effects were rare — less than 2% experienced them — and that the treatment did not lead to any significant heart or blood vessel problems. This is important because it shows that fremanezumab can be used safely by many patients, even those with existing heart and blood vessel conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from episodic and chronic migraines, especially those with cardiovascular issues.

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This study looked at how eptinezumab, a medication given through an IV, affects people with chronic migraines. Researchers found that patients receiving eptinezumab experienced a significant drop in monthly headache days—8.9 days for the 100 mg dose and 9.7 days for the 300 mg dose—compared to 7.3 days for those receiving a placebo. Additionally, there were more significant reductions in the severity and troublesome symptoms, like nausea and sensitivity to light, for those treated with eptinezumab. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic migraines looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at the effects of eptinezumab, a drug used to prevent migraines, when given during a migraine attack. It found that after just one hour, 9.7% of people treated with eptinezumab were free of headache pain compared to only 4.1% of those given a placebo. Also, a higher percentage of eptinezumab patients experienced relief from other migraine symptoms like light and sound sensitivity. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from migraines by providing a quicker way to find relief during an attack.

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This study looked at how effective a new medication called atogepant is for preventing migraines in adults. Over a 12-week trial involving 902 participants, the results showed that 60.8% of those taking the highest dose of atogepant had at least a 50% reduction in migraine days, compared to only 29% in the placebo group. These findings highlight that atogepant is a promising option for people with frequent migraines, helping them reduce their symptoms significantly. Who this helps: Patients suffering from frequent migraines.

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This study looked at how older adults with dementia and the public feel about sexual advance directives (SADs), which are legal documents meant to protect people's sexual rights as they age. About 65% of the 537 people surveyed believed these documents should exist, but 60% would not sign one right now because they felt too young to need it. The findings show that people who value sexual rights and communication are more supportive of SADs, highlighting the importance of addressing sexual autonomy in older age. Who this helps: This helps older adults with dementia and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how well a medication called fremanezumab helps reduce disability related to migraines in people with either episodic or chronic migraines. The researchers found that patients taking fremanezumab had significantly better outcomes: 71% of those with moderate disability and 69% of those with more severe disability saw substantial improvements, compared to only 49% and 58% in the placebo group. This is important because it shows that fremanezumab can effectively improve daily functioning for migraine sufferers, making a real difference in their quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from episodic and chronic migraines.

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This study focused on the role of a protein called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in migraine headaches and how it affects gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting. The researchers found that CGRP is linked to both migraine attacks and various stomach problems, with patients experiencing issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and constipation alongside their migraines. Understanding this connection is important because it helps doctors better manage these additional gastrointestinal symptoms in migraine patients by using targeted treatments. Who this helps: This helps migraine patients who also struggle with stomach issues.

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This study looked at how often migraine patients experience constipation when treated with a new medication called erenumab compared to other similar medications and standard treatments. It found that 0.46% of patients using erenumab had constipation, similar to 0.44% for other similar drugs but lower at 0.53% for patients using standard antiepileptic drugs. Understanding these risks is important because it helps doctors assess the safety of treatments and choose the best option for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with migraines and their doctors in selecting appropriate treatments.

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This study looked at how a treatment called galcanezumab affects people with migraine, specifically focusing on their quality of life and disability levels over a year. Researchers found that patients experienced significant improvements in their quality of life and reduced disability, with patients on the lower dose showing an average improvement of about 33.58 points on a disability scale. This is important because it shows that galcanezumab can help people with migraine lead better lives. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from migraines.

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Researchers studied whether injecting special stem cells (SB623) into the brains of patients with long-term motor problems from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) could help them move better. In a trial with 63 participants, those treated with SB623 improved their movement scores by an average of 8.3 points after 6 months, compared to just 2.3 points for those who did not receive the treatment. This is important because it shows that SB623 can lead to meaningful improvement in motor function without serious side effects. Who this helps: This helps patients who have chronic motor deficits from traumatic brain injuries.

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This study looked at how well intravenous eptinezumab works for treating migraine attacks compared to a placebo. The results showed that patients who received eptinezumab found relief from headache pain in a median of 4 hours, while those who received a placebo took 9 hours, and 23.5% of patients in the eptinezumab group were pain-free after 2 hours compared to 12% in the placebo group. This is important because quicker relief from migraines can significantly improve patients' quality of life. Who this helps: This benefits adults suffering from moderate to severe migraines.

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This study looked at how effective fremanezumab is for people suffering from migraines by analyzing patient records in the United States. After starting treatment, 83.7% of patients reported fewer headaches, with the average number of headache days dropping from 22.24 to 8.24 per month, and migraine pain intensity decreasing by 18%. Additionally, visits to the emergency room and outpatient clinics went down, indicating that treatment not only helps with symptoms but also reduces the need for medical care. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from migraines and their healthcare providers.

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This study looks at the new and upcoming treatments for migraines. Researchers found that there are currently three approved monoclonal antibodies, with one more expected soon, and many new oral and other treatments are on the way, such as lasmiditan and new delivery systems for existing medications. This is important because it offers hope for migraine patients who struggle to find effective relief or cannot tolerate existing treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from migraines, especially those dissatisfied with their current options.

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This study looked at young adults involved in "on-again, off-again" dating relationships to understand how they make decisions about these connections. Researchers found that there are key areas where support can help, such as improving communication and addressing personal identity and control issues. These insights are important because they can guide professionals in helping young adults form healthier relationship patterns. Who this helps: This information benefits young adult patients and the professionals who assist them with relationship challenges.

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This study looked at how viewing a romantic relationship as sacred affects the chances of cheating among college students. Researchers found that students who felt their relationship was highly sanctified were less likely to cheat, with only 11% reporting physical cheating compared to 24% among those with lower sanctification. This matters because it shows that nurturing a sense of sacredness in relationships can lead to stronger commitments and fewer betrayals. Who this helps: This helps couples and relationship counselors.

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This study looks at a unique case of a man who experienced paralysis on one side of his soft palate after a minor neck injury during a soccer game. He also had velopharyngeal insufficiency, which means he had trouble closing the back of his throat when speaking, affecting his speech. It's important because it highlights a rare condition that can result from what seems like a minor injury, helping to better understand potential complications from neck trauma. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and medical professionals who treat patients with neck injuries.

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This study looked at how well trained emergency medical providers can perform chest compressions during a cardiac arrest in a Bell 407 helicopter compared to on a flat surface. It found that chest compressions done in the helicopter did not meet the American Heart Association guidelines for depth and duration, meaning they were less effective than those done on land. The findings highlight the challenges of providing high-quality care in a confined and moving space, which is critical for saving patients' lives. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing cardiac arrest during air medical transport.

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This study compared two medical devices, the Ambu AuraGain (AAG) and the intubating laryngeal tube suction (ILTS-D), to see which one helps doctors more effectively place a breathing tube in emergency situations. The findings showed that the ILTS-D was much more successful, with an 82.5% success rate for getting the breathing tube in correctly, compared to just 20% for the AAG. This is important because using the right device can make it easier and faster to secure an airway, which is crucial in urgent medical situations. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and their patients in emergency care scenarios.