DR. RIOLIN C. ANDRADE, MD

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This study looked at how different eating behaviors relate to mental health in adults. It found that issues like anxiety and depression are connected to unhealthy eating patterns, with 40 studies showing a strong link between emotional eating and negative feelings. Understanding these connections is important because improving emotional regulation can help people overcome unhealthy eating habits. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with emotional eating and mental health issues.

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This study looked at how diabetes affects patients undergoing carotid artery stenting (a procedure to open blocked arteries in the neck). Researchers analyzed data from 12 studies involving over 22,000 patients and found that while diabetes did not significantly increase the short-term risks of stroke, heart attack, or death during or shortly after the procedure, it did double the long-term risk of the arteries becoming blocked again. This is important because it shows that carotid artery stenting can be safely performed on diabetic patients, but they need closer monitoring afterward to manage the risk of artery blockage returning. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes undergoing carotid artery stenting and their doctors.

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This study compared two methods of accessing the brachial artery, which is used for certain vascular procedures: percutaneous brachial access (PBA) and open brachial access (OBA). Researchers found that PBA led to about three and a half times more access-site complications that needed treatment compared to OBA. This matters because choosing the right method can significantly affect patient safety and recovery. Who this helps: Patients undergoing vascular interventions.

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Researchers studied new materials for IV bags made from renewable and compostable ingredients to reduce plastic waste in the medical field. They created two promising alternatives that matched the strength of traditional plastic IV bags while being safer for health: one performed as well as common PVC in strength tests, and both showed better compatibility with human cells. This is important because it provides a way to cut down on harmful plastic waste while ensuring patient safety. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers looking for safer, more sustainable medical supplies.

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This study looked at how many people return to physical activities or sports after undergoing knee surgery, specifically comparing two types: total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Researchers found that 85.2% of patients returned to activity within about 4 months, but people with TKA were less likely to return compared to those with UKA, having only a 31% chance of going back to sports and exercise. This is significant because it highlights that patients can generally expect a quick recovery to low-impact activities, but those with TKA may need more support to get back to sports. Who this helps: This information benefits patients recovering from knee surgery and their doctors.

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This study compared two surgical methods for repairing knee ligaments: one that only fixes the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and another that combines ACL repair with a second ligament called the anterolateral ligament (ALL). Researchers found that while both methods improved knee function significantly, there was only a slight difference in effectiveness, with 4.8% of patients in the combined surgery group experiencing a specific knee instability (known as pivot shift) compared to 28.6% in the isolated ACL group. This is important because it suggests that the combined surgery may help reduce knee instability, but the overall improvements in function were similar. Who this helps: Patients undergoing ACL surgery looking to minimize knee instability post-surgery.

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This paper reviews the ways that scientists can chemically alter starch to make stronger and more durable bioplastics. It highlights improvements in strength and flexibility from modifications like esterification and oxidation, presenting specific data linking changes in these processes to better protection against moisture. This research is important because it offers a clear path for making natural, biodegradable plastics that can effectively replace traditional plastics used in packaging. Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers and environmental organizations looking for sustainable packaging solutions.

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This study looked at how using Virtual Standardized Patients (VSPs) in pharmacy education can help students become more prepared for real clinical work. The researchers found that VSPs provide a cost-effective way for students to practice their communication skills and gain confidence, making it easier for them to learn and ask questions in a low-pressure environment. This matters because better-prepared pharmacists can offer improved patient care. Who this helps: This helps pharmacy students and, ultimately, the patients they care for.

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This study explored how effective platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments are for injuries to three different tendons: the rotator cuff, Achilles tendon, and patellar tendon. It found that after six months, 67% of patients saw improvement in their condition, with 73% of rotator cuff patients and 75% of Achilles tendon patients experiencing significant benefits, while only 50% of those with patellar tendon injuries showed similar results. This matters because it highlights that PRP treatments work better for some types of tendon injuries than others, and that women tend to respond better than men. Who this helps: This helps patients with tendon injuries, particularly those with rotator cuff and Achilles tendon issues.

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This study looked at how accurate and effective a new surgery method called patient-specific 3D-printed high tibial osteotomy (PSI HTO) is compared to the standard method for treating knee osteoarthritis. Researchers analyzed data from 21 trials involving 825 patients and found that patients who had PSI HTO experienced better alignment outcomes, less pain (with a reduction of about 3.94 points on a scale), and greater improvement in knee function, while also having shorter surgery times and fewer X-rays during the procedure. Importantly, both surgery methods had similar complication rates (about 17.8% for PSI), meaning PSI is a safe alternative. Who this helps: Patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis.

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In this study, researchers examined plant life on four islands in the Azores to understand how plant cover changes with elevation. They set up 58 plots and recorded over 2,500 occurrences of various plant species, including 44 unique to the Azores. This research is important because it creates a benchmark for tracking changes in plant life, especially relating to invasive species and environmental pressures over time. Who this helps: This helps conservationists and environmental scientists working to protect native plant species and ecosystems.

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This study focused on improving a method called Model Predictive Control (MPC) for managing complex systems, specifically in real-time settings like controlling drones that carry loads. The researchers developed a new approach that makes calculations faster and more efficient, which allowed the system to respond effectively without delays. They found that their method significantly reduced computational costs, enabling successful control of a drone with a suspended load, demonstrating it can work well in practical applications. Who this helps: This benefits engineers and developers working on drone technology and advanced control systems.

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This study looked at breast cancer patients undergoing anthracycline chemotherapy to see how it affected their heart health and fitness. Out of 32 women, 53.1% reported functional disabilities six months after treatment, and many exhibited signs of heart issues during exercise, including increased body fat and lower heart function measurements. These findings are crucial because they highlight that many patients experience lasting declines in fitness and heart function after chemotherapy, which can increase their risk for long-term heart problems. Who this helps: This helps breast cancer patients and their doctors understand the importance of monitoring heart health after treatment.

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This study looked at how freezing Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for a long time affects its properties. Researchers found that while the overall number of platelets didn’t change significantly, their size altered, and some growth factors decreased over time after storage. Specifically, two important growth factors showed reduced levels, but other factors remained stable, indicating that PRP can still be used effectively after being frozen for up to 12 months. Who this helps: This benefits patients who rely on PRP treatments for healing and doctors looking to store PRP for future use.

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This study looked at how genetics, sex, and a specific treatment called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) affect the likelihood of developing arthrofibrosis after knee surgery for ligament injuries. Researchers analyzed 89 patients and found that 44 developed arthrofibrosis. It was determined that certain genetic factors, being female, and not using PRP were linked to a higher risk of this condition after surgery. These findings are important because they help predict which patients might be at greater risk and suggest that using PRP could potentially reduce that risk. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from knee surgeries and their doctors by identifying risk factors and possible preventive treatments.

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This study focused on improving the selection process for liver transplantation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer. Researchers updated a tool called HepatoPredict to better predict which patients will benefit from transplantation, showing that it outperformed standard clinical criteria; specifically, it had a better ability to identify patients who are unlikely to experience recurrence after surgery. Because HepatoPredict can effectively evaluate tumors, even when they vary within the same patient or tumor, it supports fairer access to care and better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer who are seeking transplantation.

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This study looked at the side effects caused by radiopharmaceuticals, which are substances used in nuclear medicine, by analyzing reports from the Portuguese National Pharmacovigilance System from 2010 to 2023. A total of 84 reports were received, describing 224 adverse reactions, with over two-thirds classified as serious. The most common issues reported included gastrointestinal problems and skin disorders. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients and doctors to better understand the risks associated with these treatments.

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This research examined how the age of mosquitoes affects their populations as the climate changes. They focused on a common mosquito species known to spread West Nile Virus and found that not considering mosquito age can lead to underestimating how many mosquitoes there will be in the future. Specifically, their model predicts that ignoring factors like age could result in a significant miscalculation of populations, which is crucial for assessing disease risks in warming climates. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and researchers studying mosquito-borne diseases.

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This study looked at the best way to place a device called InternalBrace during surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. The researchers found that putting the InternalBrace in specific positions, like at the front and middle of the ligament, significantly reduced strain on the repaired ACL, with the peak strain dropping to 6.5% compared to an 8.1% strain in a damaged ACL without the device. This finding is important because it shows that using the InternalBrace can provide better support for the knee, potentially leading to improved recovery for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from ACL surgery.

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This study looked at complications that can occur after surgical procedures called knee derotational osteotomies, which are done to fix alignment issues in patients with front knee pain or instability. Out of 564 surgeries examined, 7.5% experienced complications, with 3.8% facing issues during the surgery, and 13% needing further operations mainly to remove hardware. These findings highlight the risks associated with these surgeries and the necessity for careful planning to prevent complications, particularly nerve injuries. Who this helps: Patients undergoing knee surgery for pain or instability.

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This study looked at how the severity of knee injuries, specifically multiligament knee injuries (MLKI), relates to the chances of having nerve or blood vessel injuries. Researchers analyzed data from 144 patients and found that high-grade injuries were linked to a greater risk of neurological injuries; for each increase in injury grade, the odds of having a nerve injury increased by 2.5 times. Conversely, damage to the medial collateral ligament decreased the chances of neurological injury, while injuries to the posterolateral corner increased those chances significantly. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating patients with severe knee injuries by helping them assess risks and provide better care.

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This study looked at a new device called the Porto Ankle Testing Device (PATD), which measures how loose ankle joints are while using MRI to confirm the findings. Researchers tested 33 healthy ankles and found that the measurements had high reliability across different assessors, with scores between 0.77 and 0.98, meaning results are consistent and trustworthy, except for one specific measurement that was less reliable. This is important because it provides a better way to assess ankle joint stability, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with ankle problems and doctors who treat them.

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This paper examines different surgical methods for thymectomy, a procedure often used to treat patients with thymus tumors and myasthenia gravis. The researchers found that total thymectomy surgeries increased by nearly 70% from 2012 to 2019, with minimally invasive techniques becoming more popular—growing by 84%. Understanding these techniques helps doctors choose the best approach for their patients, which is important for improving treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This research helps patients with thymic tumors and myasthenia gravis, along with their doctors.

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This study explored how crickets can be raised using alternative diets made from leftover plant materials and fish waste. It found that crickets fed these diets produced protein-rich powders with around 60% protein, essential amino acids, and higher mineral levels than typical protein sources. This is important because it shows that using waste products for insect farming could provide a sustainable source of nutrition while reducing environmental impact. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for sustainable protein sources and food industry professionals seeking alternative ingredients.

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This study looked at whether injecting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) during rotator cuff repairs could help patients heal better after surgery. It found that while using MSCs didn't improve overall recovery outcomes like shoulder movement or strength compared to surgery alone, it did significantly lower the chances of re-injury, with risks dropping by 48% in the mid-term and 76% in the long-term. This is important because many patients experience high rates of re-injury after rotator cuff surgery, so reducing that risk can lead to better long-lasting results. Who this helps: Patients recovering from rotator cuff surgery.

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This study looked at how different factors affect the treatment of nasal bone fractures in trauma patients. Out of over 266,000 patients with these fractures, only 20,330 (about 7.6%) received corrective treatment to reposition their noses. It found that older patients, men, and those treated at certain hospital types were less likely to get this treatment, which shows that there are significant disparities in how care is provided. Who this helps: This research helps patients and doctors understand who is getting treated and encourages better care practices.

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This study looked at a rare lung tumor called pulmonary adenoid cystic carcinoma, focusing on a patient who didn't have other treatment options available. The patient underwent a surgical procedure called extrapleural pneumonectomy, which successfully treated the cancer and shows promise as a possible first-line treatment for similar aggressive cases. This matters because it opens up new possibilities for treating patients with this hard-to-treat cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with pulmonary adenoid cystic carcinoma who lack viable treatment options.

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This study looked at the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections from healthy donors to treat knee osteoarthritis in patients who didn't improve with their own PRP treatments. Of the 16 patients involved, 14 completed the treatment, and 43% showed meaningful improvements in their pain and quality of life after one year. No side effects were reported, making this a safe option for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with knee osteoarthritis who haven't found relief from other treatments.

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This study looked at different methods used to help people manage reward eating, which is when people eat for pleasure rather than hunger. Researchers examined 22 articles published between 2014 and 2024 and found six main types of treatment protocols: diet plans, training programs, physical exercise, apps, herbal treatments, and combinations of these methods. The rise in research on reward eating shows that there is increasing interest in finding new ways to support people struggling with obesity. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with obesity and healthcare providers looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how insects, like crickets and mealworms, can be used as sustainable food ingredients. It found that insect flours can hold up to 3.2 grams of water for every gram and can create strong gels, making them effective substitutes for traditional ingredients like eggs and soy in various foods. Using insects not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and land use by 45-80% compared to animal ingredients but also enhances the quality and shelf life of products, like extending bread freshness by three days. Who this helps: This benefits food manufacturers, environmentally conscious consumers, and patients looking for sustainable protein sources.

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This study looked at two non-invasive brain stimulation methods, rTMS and tDCS, to see how well they improve movement and daily activities in stroke survivors. Researchers reviewed 56 studies and found that rTMS had a strong positive effect on daily living activities and upper-limb movement, with a significant improvement in daily living activities measured at a strength of -0.82, while the effects of tDCS were weaker and less reliable. This matters because effective rehabilitation can greatly enhance the quality of life for stroke survivors. Who this helps: Stroke survivors and their rehabilitation teams.

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This study focused on a type of epilepsy called eyelid myoclonia, which often gets mistaken for tics or other behaviors, leading to misdiagnosis. Out of 16 patients observed, 93.75% started with eyelid seizures before developing more severe seizures later on. Many patients waited years—up to 40—before receiving the correct diagnosis, which highlights the need for better recognition of this condition, especially in children. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by ensuring more accurate and timely treatment for epilepsy.

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This study looked at the mental health issues of police officers, focusing on their experiences with suicidal thoughts and actions. It found that 21% of officers have thought about suicide, 6% have made plans, and 3% have attempted it, which are higher than the rates seen in the general public. The results demonstrate a significant need for better mental health support for police officers, as well as more research on this critical issue. Who this helps: This research benefits police officers and the organizations that support their mental health.

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This study examined the experiences and treatment patterns of 13,476 patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) in Brazil's public healthcare system from 2010 to 2023. Researchers found that hospital admissions increased over time, with 30.4% of patients facing worsening health and the case-fatality rate rising from 0.76% to 1.90%. The findings show that many patients struggle to manage their symptoms effectively, indicating a need for better treatment options and strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with myasthenia gravis and their healthcare providers.

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This study explored how a specific enzyme called HDAC11 affects cell growth and the activity of a protein involved in cancer called BRAF. The researchers identified 64 different proteins that HDAC11 can modify, and they found that it specifically alters BRAF in a way that reduces its activity and slows down cell growth. This matters because understanding how HDAC11 works could help develop new cancer treatments since BRAF is known to play a significant role in tumor development. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer and doctors seeking targeted treatment options.

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This study looked at a new type of scaffolding made from a patient’s own blood to help with healing wounds and injuries. Researchers found that the new scaffold, made with higher levels of a protein called fibrinogen, was much stronger and quicker to form clots than the regular version—showing improvements like nearly four times more fibrinogen and faster coagulation times. This matters because it means better healing and support for tissues, making it useful in medical treatments that need quick and effective results. Who this helps: Patients recovering from surgeries or injuries.

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This study examined how different types of chemical ingredients (functional monomers) and their amounts affect the bonding strength and flow properties of new dental filling materials attached to tooth tissue (dentin). Researchers tested nine versions of these materials and found that a specific type, called 10-MDP, produced better results, notably a wider bonding area and less viscosity, making it easier to work with. Specifically, 10-MDP versions had a bonding area more than 30% larger and better adhesive quality than the other types tested. Who this helps: This research benefits dentists and patients needing dental restorations, as it points to materials that may lead to stronger and more durable fillings.

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This study looked at the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in cholangiocarcinoma, a rare but aggressive cancer affecting the bile ducts. Researchers found that ncRNAs can help identify the presence of this cancer and predict patient outcomes, which is crucial given that most patients do not show symptoms until the cancer is advanced. Detecting these markers could lead to earlier diagnoses and better treatment strategies, potentially improving survival rates for patients. Who this helps: Patients with cholangiocarcinoma and their doctors.

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This study reviewed 180 research papers on hydration and dehydration, involving 4,350 participants. It found that most research focused on small groups of male adults in controlled lab settings, rather than reflecting real-world situations, which limits how well the findings can be applied. The researchers highlighted the need for more comprehensive studies that include diverse groups and a wider variety of fluids to better understand hydration and its effects. Who this helps: This benefits patients, athletes, and healthcare providers by improving hydration guidelines and practices.

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This study looked at how to best treat injuries to the esophagus that happen after surgery on the front of the neck. Researchers reviewed 13 patients who experienced this issue and compared two ways of managing the wounds: one that kept the incision closed and one that left it open to heal naturally. They found that the open management method was more effective, with a 100% success rate in healing within 30 days compared to only 20% for the closed method, and patients needed fewer follow-up procedures and shorter hospital stays (14 days for open versus 23 days for closed). Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients undergoing cervical spine surgery by providing insights for better recovery strategies.

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Researchers studied a collection of moths from Portugal, analyzing 2,350 specimens that represent 1,158 different species, which is about 42% of all moth species found on the mainland. They increased the available DNA barcodes for Portuguese moths by 205%, adding 61 new identification numbers, ensuring that the data is now available online for anyone to access. This work is important because it helps scientists and conservationists better understand and protect biodiversity in Portugal. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, conservationists, and anyone interested in studying the diversity of moths in Portugal.

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Researchers studied the potential benefits of using insect-based proteins as a food source. They found that insects require much less land, water, and feed than traditional livestock while producing fewer greenhouse gases, potentially offering a more sustainable solution for feeding the growing global population. Insects are also a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Who this helps: This benefits patients, consumers, and the environment by promoting healthier diets and sustainable food practices.

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This study looked at three antimicrobial peptides (Clavanin A, Clavanin-MO, and Mastoparan-MO) to see how well they can help heal skin wounds. The researchers found that Clavanin A and Mastoparan-MO significantly promoted skin cell growth and movement at certain safe doses, leading to faster healing in skin models. This matters because it highlights new potential treatments for improving wound healing, especially in patients with conditions that hinder recovery. Who this helps: This helps patients with slow-healing wounds, such as those with diabetes or other skin conditions.

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This study looked at how contaminated the soil is in areas affected by artisanal gold mining in the Eastern Brazilian Amazon. Researchers found that using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) can quickly and accurately measure harmful elements in the soil, achieving good accuracy with models that showed strong results for measuring copper, iron, and zinc. This method is faster and generates less waste than traditional testing, making it important for monitoring soil health and protecting people’s health. Who this helps: This benefits the local communities and environmental health officials monitoring contamination risks.

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This study looked at the muscle strength of patients who had knee surgery to repair a torn ligament, specifically focusing on how well their quadriceps and hamstrings were recovering six months after the operation. Researchers found that 80.3% of patients had muscle strength in their quadriceps that was not balanced between knees, and 78.9% showed imbalances in their hamstrings, especially in the non-operated knee. This matters because it highlights that most patients do not regain equal strength, which could lead to future injuries or reduced performance in sports. Who this helps: This information helps patients recovering from knee surgery and their doctors understand recovery progress and improve rehabilitation strategies.

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The research focused on a medication called ravulizumab for adults with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG), a condition that causes muscle weakness. In the studies, patients who took ravulizumab experienced significant improvements in muscle strength and daily activities, with these benefits lasting for up to 60 weeks. The drug was found to be safe, with no cases of a specific serious infection, and it can be given every 8 weeks for ongoing improvement. Who this helps: This helps adults with generalized myasthenia gravis looking for effective treatment options.

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This study examined different surgical treatments for a specific type of ankle cartilage damage called nonprimary osteochondral lesions of the talus, which often follow unsuccessful previous surgeries. They found that two types of treatments, called autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and osteochondral autologous transplantation (OAT), had excellent results, with over 80% of patients reporting improvement. However, other methods like osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) and HemiCAP were less effective and had higher failure rates. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from chronic ankle pain and damage after previous surgeries.