RICHARD B. CUNNINGHAM, M.D.

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This study looked at where people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in New Zealand die and how that compares to others without these conditions. Researchers found that individuals with these mental health issues were 41% less likely to die in hospices than those without, even when considering factors like age and cause of death. This matters because it highlights ongoing inequalities in access to palliative care for those with mental health conditions, especially at a vulnerable time in their lives. Who this helps: This helps patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and their families as well as healthcare providers.

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This study examined how different components of the Hippo signaling pathway affect growth and healing in zebrafish. Researchers used a gene-editing technique to knock out specific Hippo genes and found that two key proteins, Yap1 and Taz, play different roles depending on whether the fish are developing or regenerating after injury. For instance, when these proteins were missing, the fish had reduced immune responses that made it harder for them to heal from severe injuries. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and medical researchers focused on improving regeneration therapies for patients with injuries.

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This study focuses on improving a method for delivering CRISPR gene-editing tools into blood stem cells, which are crucial for treating various blood disorders. The researchers created a new delivery system using gold nanoparticles that can introduce different CRISPR systems efficiently, achieving significant gene edits in blood stem cells without harming them. Their method is quick to assemble, costing less than $70 for every million treated stem cells, making gene editing more accessible and affordable. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing blood-related therapies, doctors, and researchers in gene editing.

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This study examined a new method for producing antibodies against HIV by editing the genes of blood-forming cells in primates without using viruses. Researchers found that they could effectively insert a gene to create an anti-HIV antibody in mice from edited primate cells, achieving a better success rate with a technique called CRISPR-Cas12a compared to another method. This is important because it opens the door for long-lasting treatments against diseases like HIV without relying on short-term solutions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with HIV by potentially providing them with more effective and long-term treatment options.

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This study investigated whether clavulanic acid, a medication that affects brain chemistry, can safely be used with cocaine in people who have a cocaine use disorder. Researchers found that a dose of 500 mg of clavulanic acid significantly reduced cocaine cravings, with its effect being strong enough to be clinically meaningful. Overall, the treatment was safe, with mild side effects mainly related to the stomach. Who this helps: This helps patients with cocaine use disorder by potentially providing a treatment option to reduce cravings.

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This study looked at how well new tests for daily functioning in older adults matched up with cognitive assessments and reports from people close to them. Among 93 participants, those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) scored worse on performance tasks compared to those who were cognitively unimpaired or had subjective cognitive decline. These tests not only showed differences in performance but also predicted real-world daily functioning, helping identify early changes that could indicate the onset of dementia. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing tools for early detection of functional decline in older adults.

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This study looked at 1,320 people who were moved from prison to psychiatric hospitals in New Zealand over a 14-year period to understand their health outcomes and deaths. The findings revealed that this group had a mortality rate 4.7 times higher than the general New Zealand population, with deaths mainly caused by natural issues (60%) and injuries, including suicide (40%). This highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare and prevention efforts for individuals with serious mental illnesses who are incarcerated. Who this helps: This helps patients with mental health issues, their families, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at mental health issues, like depression and anxiety, among Pacific adults living in New Zealand. Researchers found that 24% of Pacific women and 18% of those aged 24-64 reported having mental disorders, with higher rates seen in people from the Cook Islands and other Pacific Realm countries. Understanding these differences is important because it highlights the need for targeted mental health support for specific groups within the Pacific community. Who this helps: This helps Pacific adults and health care providers by identifying areas where mental health support is needed.

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This study looked at how smallholder farmers in Ghana adapt to climate change by reviewing existing research on their strategies and challenges. It found 61 different strategies, such as improving farming techniques and diversifying income sources, but highlighted significant gaps in understanding how effective these strategies are and the role of institutions in supporting farmers. This matters because helping farmers adapt can improve their livelihoods and the overall resilience of Ghana's agriculture in the face of climate issues. Who this helps: This helps smallholder farmers, agricultural policymakers, and researchers focused on climate adaptation.

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This research studied a group of drugs designed to inhibit the TEAD family of proteins, which are important in the growth of pleural mesothelioma, a type of cancer. The researchers created a new method to evaluate these drugs and found that certain inhibitors can effectively target cancer cells with fewer side effects. Their results show that understanding how these drugs work can lead to better treatment options for patients with this aggressive cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with pleural mesothelioma and their doctors by providing insights into new treatment options.

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This study looked at hospital admissions for preventable health issues among people using mental health and addiction services in New Zealand from 2012 to 2018. The researchers found that individuals in these services had hospital admission rates 2.38 times higher than the general population, especially for conditions like epilepsy (almost six times higher), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (over four times higher), and diabetes (over three times higher). These findings underline serious gaps in physical health care for this group, showing the urgent need to improve access to primary care. Who this helps: This helps patients accessing mental health and addiction services.

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This study looked at how expanding Bridge Clinics, which offer easier access to treatment for substance use disorders, affects treatment visits for Black and Hispanic patients, and those with limited English skills. From 2021 to 2023, total visits at these clinics grew significantly from about 5,323 to 10,350, with visits for Black patients increasing from 437 to 1,151, Hispanic patients from 566 to 1,609, and LEP patients from 96 to 265. This matters because it shows that making treatment more accessible can help reduce racial and language disparities in substance use treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those from Black and Hispanic communities and individuals with limited English proficiency.

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This study looked at how a specific mutation called oncogenic Ras affects skin cells in zebrafish within the first day after it occurs. Researchers found that this mutation causes some skin cells to change into a more aggressive form, similar to cancer cells in humans, and it also triggers an inflammatory response that helps cancerous cells grow faster. These findings are important because they highlight the role of inflammation and cell changes in the early stages of cancer development. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing insights into how early cancer development works and potential targets for treatment.

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This study looked at how resilience, or the ability to bounce back from challenges, affects people's mental health and wellbeing in different social and economic situations. Researchers reviewed 24 strong studies and found that individual factors like self-esteem and community support play different roles depending on the context: in poorer areas, economic stability is crucial, while in wealthier areas, personal strengths and social connections are more important. This research emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to enhance resilience and wellbeing based on specific circumstances. Who this helps: This helps patients and mental health professionals understand the different factors that enhance wellbeing based on their social and economic backgrounds.

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This study looked at how the availability of different wild foods affects food security in rural communities in southern coastal Alaska. Researchers found that by having access to a variety of wild foods—96 different types—the communities were better able to maintain stable harvests over time, reducing fluctuations in food supply even when some species became less available. This is important because it shows that diverse food sources can help communities adapt to changes in food availability, ensuring they have a reliable food supply. Who this helps: This helps rural communities that rely on wild foods for their nutrition and livelihoods.

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This research focused on a process called neurogenesis, which is the creation of new brain cells. It found that even in adults, the brain continues to make new cells in a specific area called the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. This discovery is important because it connects the process of creating new brain cells to learning, memory, and conditions like Alzheimer's Disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those with neurological disorders, as well as doctors and researchers seeking to understand brain health.

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This study looked at how many Indigenous Māori people are actually in prison compared to how many are officially reported by the New Zealand government. Researchers found that only 52% of those imprisoned were recorded as Māori, while the real number should be about 57%, meaning there could be at least 405 more Māori in prison than what is officially acknowledged. This matters because having accurate numbers is essential for understanding the health impacts of imprisonment on Māori and for making better decisions about resources and policies that affect their lives. Who this helps: This helps Indigenous Māori communities and policymakers who want to address inequalities in the criminal justice system.

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This study looked at how Indigenous Māori people access primary healthcare after being released from New Zealand prisons. Out of 7,398 Māori released between June 2021 and May 2022, over half were re-imprisoned within a year, and nearly a quarter (24%) did not have access to affordable primary care. Many had limited access to necessary medical services; for example, only 47% visited a primary care provider, 63% received medication, and 26% went to emergency departments during that year, highlighting the urgent need for better healthcare access for these communities. Who this helps: This helps Indigenous Māori individuals released from prison and their families.

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This paper reviews guidelines for managing pain in adult cancer patients, focusing on how to effectively screen for pain, prescribe medications like opioids safely, and use non-drug treatments. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of reducing opioid use responsibly when needed and introduce various strategies for pain management, including alternatives beyond traditional medications. This is important because effective pain control can significantly improve the quality of life for cancer patients. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects male and female rats differently. Researchers found that female rats showed increased inflammation and impaired fine motor skills when exposed to conditions mimicking OSA, while male rats experienced higher oxidative stress and more compulsive behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of considering sex differences in understanding and treating OSA, as it could lead to better-targeted therapies. Who this helps: This helps patients with obstructive sleep apnea and their doctors.

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This study focused on creating a basketball program for young African-Australians in Melbourne, using a method that respects and incorporates their cultural values. Researchers found that by involving the community in the design process and embracing African philosophies like UBUNTU, the program can foster collaboration and empower participants. This approach is important because it can help create programs that are more effective and inclusive, addressing power imbalances in traditional design methods. Who this helps: This benefits young African-Australians and the communities they are part of.

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This study looked at how people with mental health and substance use issues, especially Māori and non-Māori, experienced physical healthcare in New Zealand. It found that Māori reported worse experiences overall. For example, Māori were less likely to feel respected or listened to compared to non-Māori, and they experienced more unfair treatment and overshadowing in their healthcare across various settings, particularly in emergency departments and hospitals. Improving the quality of care for these populations is essential to reduce disparities in health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly Māori individuals with mental health and substance use conditions.

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Researchers studied how six countries (Canada, Finland, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, and Sweden) set goals to significantly reduce smoking rates, aiming for 5% or less by 2025 to 2035. They found that while most countries had a positive initial response and supportive action plans, none had clear measures in place to achieve these goals, leading to inadequate progress, especially among disadvantaged groups. This research highlights that more specific actions are needed to meet these goals fairly and effectively across different communities. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and public health officials in their efforts to reduce smoking rates and address health inequalities.

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This study looked at how clavulanic acid affects brain activity in people with cocaine addiction when they see cues related to cocaine. Among 13 participants, those treated with clavulanic acid showed a significant decrease in brain activity linked to craving in areas of the brain associated with motivation and emotion, with reductions of 34% in one area and 37% in another. This matters because it suggests that clavulanic acid might help individuals better manage their cravings and resist cocaine use. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with cocaine addiction.

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This study looked at how Māori patients with bipolar disorder are treated in New Zealand and aimed to find better ways to care for them. Researchers held focus groups with healthcare providers and found that there are important changes needed in how mental health services are organized and delivered, particularly to meet the unique needs of Māori patients. The study highlights the urgent need for healthcare reform to ensure that Māori receive the best possible care. Who this helps: This helps Māori patients with bipolar disorder and their families.

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Researchers studied how major trauma patients communicate with healthcare professionals in a Major Trauma Centre. They found that 20 patients often felt vulnerable and confused, which made it hard for them to speak up during conversations. Positive communication helped them feel reassured and cared for, while poor communication left them feeling angry and dependent. It's clear that improving how staff communicate, especially by providing clear explanations and written information, can significantly enhance the patients' healthcare experience. Who this helps: This helps major trauma patients and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how often people with mental health and substance use conditions are diagnosed with cancer after going to the emergency room. The researchers found that these individuals had higher rates of emergency presentations for cancers like lung (19% more), prostate (69% more), breast (42% more), and colorectal cancers (31% more) compared to those without mental health issues. This matters because people diagnosed through emergency visits tend to have lower survival rates, so improving access to cancer care for these patients could lead to better health outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with mental health and substance use conditions.

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This study looked at how often people with mental health issues visit emergency departments (ED) compared to those without such issues. It found that 18% of all ED visits were made by current mental health clients, who tended to be younger, more likely female, and often required urgent care. The study highlights that these clients often face longer wait times and do not always receive the appropriate follow-up for their mental health needs. Who this helps: This research benefits mental health patients and the healthcare providers who care for them.

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This study focused on improving the follow-up care for patients who received abnormal results from at-home colorectal cancer screenings. Over an 18-month period, a team worked with six health care sites to set up a system that helped ensure these patients were contacted and scheduled for required colonoscopies. They found that out of 5,165 patients identified as needing outreach, about 3,555 (68.8%) were successfully contacted, 2,060 (39.9%) were scheduled for a colonoscopy, and 1,504 (29.1%) completed the procedure. Why this matters: This initiative helps reduce missed diagnoses of colorectal cancer, which can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of colorectal cancer and health care providers involved in their care.

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The study looked at how a medication called clavulanic acid affects cocaine cravings and brain activity in people with cocaine use disorder. In a small group of nine participants, it was found that those who had higher levels of a brain chemical called glutamate after taking clavulanic acid experienced a significant decrease in their cocaine cravings, with a strong correlation of -0.90. This is important because it shows that increasing glutamate in the brain might help treat cocaine addiction effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with cocaine addiction.

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This study looked at the long-term health outcomes of Indigenous Māori youth diagnosed with first-episode psychosis. It found that over 15 years, Māori had a 21% higher risk of dying from any cause and were more likely to be hospitalized for diabetes (44% higher risk) and injuries (11% higher risk). These disparities highlight the need for better early screening and culturally appropriate healthcare to help reduce these risks for Māori. Who this helps: This benefits Indigenous Māori patients and healthcare providers working with them.

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This study reviewed existing research about the factors that can lead to or protect against youth crime. The researchers found that certain factors significantly increase the risk of criminal behavior among young people, such as substance use (which can make them 2.29 times more likely to commit crime), past criminal behavior (2.03 times more likely), and a lack of parental supervision (1.85 times more likely). Understanding these factors is important because it can help develop better prevention and intervention strategies for at-risk youth. Who this helps: This helps parents, educators, and policymakers focused on youth programs and crime prevention.

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This study looked at how to analyze cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from blood to better understand gene regulation in diseases. Researchers found that specific patterns in cfDNA correspond to active genes, showing strong links to gene expression in the body, including known circadian genes. This is important because it opens new avenues for diagnosis and treatment in personalized medicine. Who this helps: Patients and doctors involved in precision medicine.

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This study looked at the health of Māori individuals in New Zealand who have psychosis compared to non-Māori individuals and found that Māori are at higher risk for serious health issues. Specifically, Māori were 26% more likely to die and over 60% more likely to be hospitalized for diabetes or heart disease. Shockingly, about one-third of all individuals did not receive the recommended cardiometabolic blood tests, and there was no significant difference in screening rates between Māori and non-Māori. Who this helps: This research benefits Māori patients with psychosis and healthcare providers working to improve their health outcomes.

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This study looked at the factors that can lead to or help prevent crime among young people aged 12-24. It found that individual issues like substance use and a history of crime are significant risk factors, while family support and academic success can act as protective factors. Understanding these factors is important because it can lead to the development of better programs to prevent crime, especially for Indigenous youth who face unique challenges. Who this helps: This benefits young people, their families, and those working to prevent youth crime.

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This study looked at how people with mental health conditions experience primary healthcare in New Zealand compared to those without such conditions. Out of over 201,000 survey responses, 21% of respondents reported having a mental health condition, and these individuals consistently reported fewer positive experiences with their healthcare than those without these conditions. This is particularly concerning for Māori respondents, who reported even worse experiences, highlighting the need for targeted improvements in healthcare for this group. Who this helps: This helps patients with mental health conditions, especially Māori individuals.

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This study looked at how biomedical scientists can quickly assess lung tissue samples taken during a procedure called endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS TBNA). The findings showed that these scientists can accurately provide initial diagnostic impressions, with accuracy levels similar to that of specialized pathologists. This is important because it can speed up the diagnosis process for patients with lung conditions, potentially leading to quicker treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients with lung issues by speeding up their diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked at how young Māori (Indigenous people of New Zealand) and non-Māori (non-Indigenous) individuals fare five years after their first episode of psychosis. The findings showed that non-Māori had significantly better outcomes: they were more likely to be employed and earn higher incomes, while Māori faced higher rates of receiving government benefits and involvement with the criminal justice system. This is important because it highlights urgent inequalities in health and social outcomes that need to be addressed to improve the lives of Māori young people experiencing mental health issues. Who this helps: This research benefits Māori patients and those working in health and social services.

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This study focused on finding small molecules that can stop the formation of toxic beta-amyloid aggregates in the brain, which are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers tested 121 different compounds and discovered 12 that can significantly inhibit the forming of beta-amyloid dimers, which are early toxic structures. This is important because targeting the very first step of how these harmful proteins come together could lead to better treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

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This study looked at how living in racially segregated neighborhoods affects Black youth and their risk of gun violence. The researchers found that residential segregation led to worse neighborhood conditions and increased exposure to violence, which in turn raised the likelihood of young people becoming involved in firearm violence. Specifically, they focused on 338 Black youth who had used drugs and sought care in an emergency department, uncovering a direct link between the environment they lived in and their risk of engaging in violent behavior. Who this helps: This research benefits Black youth living in segregated neighborhoods by informing efforts to prevent gun violence.

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This study looked at how social support helps people who faced difficulties during childhood and how it affects their mental health as adults. Researchers found that the more childhood adversity a person experienced, the higher their chances of having major depression or anxiety disorders in adulthood. Specifically, for each additional experience of adversity, the odds of major depression and anxiety increased, but having strong social support lowered those odds significantly. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have experienced childhood adversity and mental health professionals working with them.

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The study looked at how patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) view their own condition and what challenges they face in getting treatment. Out of 124 patients diagnosed with OUD, 46% denied having the disorder at all, which highlighted a gap between how healthcare providers and patients understand the issue. This is important because it points to the need for clearer communication and personalized care plans to help patients manage their conditions and reduce stigma. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with opioid use disorder and health care providers.