ROBERT F. FISHMAN, M.D.

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This study looked at how delays or skipping medical care affect women with breast cancer in the U.S. Researchers found that 5% of patients delayed or forgone care, with 42.9% citing financial barriers as the main reason. Those who missed care had significantly more hospitalizations (37% compared to 16%) and spent an average of $5,372 more on hospital costs. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with breast cancer, as well as healthcare providers and policymakers working to improve access to care.

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This study looked at how living in rural areas affects the time it takes for women with breast cancer to get surgery and how long they survive after diagnosis. Researchers found that only 1.4% of nearly 2 million women studied lived in rural areas, and those who took longer than 60 days to receive surgery had a higher chance of dying from cancer: 37% worse for rural patients and 75% worse for urban patients. This matters because it highlights the obstacles rural women face in accessing timely cancer treatment, which can significantly impact their chances of survival. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those living in rural areas.

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This research studied how extreme heat affects milk production in cows by looking at over 320 million daily records from the last 12 years. The findings show that very hot and humid days can reduce milk output by as much as 10%, and this reduction can last for more than 10 days. Although techniques to cool cows have been used, they only lessen these losses by less than half, indicating that current strategies may not be enough to cope with the impacts of climate change. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and the agricultural industry by highlighting the challenges of adapting to climate change effects on milk production.

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This study examined blind mole rats, which typically prefer to live alone and display aggressive behaviors, to understand how they communicate socially through vibrations in the ground. Researchers discovered a new group of neurons in the brain that release oxytocin, which plays a role in their long-distance communication and defensive actions. Specifically, brain areas linked to oxytocin showed different patterns of activity; one area was connected to their ability to communicate, while another was linked to protective behaviors. This research highlights how oxytocin has evolved in these rodents to suit their unique social needs. Who this helps: This helps researchers and wildlife biologists studying animal communication and behavior.

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This study looked at how testosterone levels in unborn nutrias (a type of wild mammal) are inherited from their parents and how these levels differ between male and female fetuses. The researchers found that testosterone levels in the hair of the fetuses were passed down from parents to offspring of the same sex, with little influence from parents of the opposite sex. This is important because it shows that the way testosterone affects fetal development can vary significantly between male and female nutrias, which may lead to different evolutionary pathways for each sex. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying animal development and evolution.

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This study looked at whether a compound called 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) could affect fertility in female nutria, an invasive rodent species. Researchers gave VCD to five female nutria for 12 days and monitored their fertility over the next seven months, but found no significant changes in pregnancy rates or the number of viable eggs in their ovaries. This matters because finding effective ways to control nutria populations is important for protecting ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps conservationists and wildlife managers trying to manage invasive species.

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This study looked at how the position of fetuses in the womb affects their hormone systems and whether these effects differ between males and females. Researchers found that female fetuses generally showed higher levels of certain hormones, and the position of a fetus relative to others also influenced hormone levels in different ways, such as female fetuses having higher levels of one hormone when near same-sex siblings. This matters because it helps us understand how hormonal interactions in the womb can affect fetal development and may lead to different health outcomes for males and females later in life. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers who study fetal development and its long-term effects on health.

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This study looked at how the diets of mother mice affect their male offspring's behavior. Mice whose mothers ate high-fat diets showed clear signs of autism-related behaviors, such as being less social, more aggressive, and showing repetitive actions. Those with mothers on low-protein diets showed some behavioral changes too, but they were less severe. This research highlights how a mother's diet during pregnancy can have lasting effects on her child's behavior and development. Who this helps: This information benefits parents and healthcare providers by emphasizing the importance of maternal nutrition during pregnancy.

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This study looked at how changes in people's mobility—like going out and socializing—affected the spread of Covid-19 in 99 countries from March to December 2020. It found that a 10% drop in mobility led to a 0.05 to 0.07 decrease in the virus's transmission rate, although this effect was strongest early on and weakened over time, especially in Europe and Asia. Additionally, areas with mask mandates saw a weaker connection between mobility and Covid-19 spread, indicating that masks might help control transmission. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers develop strategies to manage Covid-19 effectively.

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The study looked at how rising temperatures in India are affecting the amount of groundwater available for farming. Researchers found that farmers are taking out much more groundwater to support their crops in warmer conditions, with depletion rates projected to be three times higher between 2041 and 2080 compared to now. This situation threatens food and water security in India as groundwater supplies dwindle. Who this helps: This helps farmers and policymakers in India.

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This study looked at how having multiple fathers for her babies affects female nutria and their male offspring. Researchers found that male fetuses born to dominant fathers had higher testosterone levels—about 30% more—than those sired by less common fathers. This matters because it suggests female nutria may benefit from mating with multiple males to create genetically diverse litters, which could help their offspring thrive, especially in changing environments. Who this helps: This helps female nutria and potentially informs conservation efforts for invasive species.

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This study looked at how farmers in the Indo-Gangetic Plains of India are dealing with rising temperatures that threaten wheat production. Researchers found that more than 50% of farmers are planting wheat later than they believe is best, which can lead to significant yield losses. They discovered that farmers who prepare their fields more efficiently or manage their rice crop better tend to sow their wheat earlier, highlighting the need for policies that encourage improvements in crop management and technology to help boost wheat yields in a warming climate. Who this helps: Farmers growing wheat in the Indo-Gangetic Plains.

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This study looked at how the diversity of neighborhoods affects the spread of COVID-19, focusing on the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Israel, which was heavily impacted by the virus. Researchers found that as the percentage of ultra-Orthodox people in a neighborhood goes down, the rate of COVID-19 infections drops significantly. For example, neighborhoods with fewer ultra-Orthodox residents had a much lower chance of residents getting infected, even when taking other factors like housing density and income into account. This matters because it shows that urban planning and community diversity can influence how diseases spread. Who this helps: This helps urban planners and health officials manage disease outbreaks more effectively in diverse communities.

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This study looked at how the way mammals attach embryos during pregnancy changed over time, specifically focusing on placental mammals. Researchers found that early forms of pregnancy involved a temporary attachment, but in modern placental mammals, embryos implant deeply into the uterus, which allows for a longer gestation period. They discovered that a specific type of cell, called decidual stromal cells, helps prevent an inflammatory reaction that could harm the pregnancy, by suppressing a substance called IL17A that attracts immune cells. Who this helps: This helps scientists and doctors understand mammalian pregnancies better, which could improve care for pregnant individuals.

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This study investigated how the depletion of groundwater affects farming in India, where groundwater is heavily relied upon for crops. Researchers found that, if current trends continue, the amount of crops grown in a year could drop by 20% across the country and by as much as 68% in areas with serious water shortages. This is important because it indicates that without additional measures, food production could be significantly harmed, threatening food security for millions. Who this helps: This helps farmers and policymakers in India plan for sustainable agricultural practices.

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This study looked at how well Emergency Medical Services (EMS) technicians and stroke neurologists agree on assessing stroke patients using the Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation (RACE) scale. They found that in a group of 31 patients, both groups agreed on the RACE score for 24 patients, showing a strong agreement of 77% and a high correlation score (0.818). This is important because it confirms that EMS technicians can accurately assess stroke risk before the patient reaches the hospital, allowing for quicker treatment. Who this helps: This benefits stroke patients by ensuring they receive timely care.

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This research looked at how advancements in farming, known as the Green Revolution, affected child health by analyzing data from over 600,000 births across 37 developing countries between 1961 and 2000. It found that the use of modern crop varieties reduced infant mortality rates by 2.4 to 5.3 percentage points, improving survival for more infants, especially for boys and those from poorer families. This is important because it shows how better farming practices can lead to healthier children and support policies for food and development. Who this helps: This helps children, especially in low-income families.

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This study looked at how being next to a male sibling in the womb affects the testosterone levels of female nutria fetuses. Researchers found that female fetuses next to males had lower testosterone levels, while those without male neighbors had similar testosterone levels as males. This is important because it reveals new insights into how the womb environment can affect fetal development, suggesting that non-traditional species like nutria can provide valuable information about sexual differentiation. Who this helps: This helps researchers and biologists understand hormonal influences on fetal development.

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This study looked at how the sex of neighboring fetuses affects their development in a type of animal called nutria. Researchers found that when there is an equal number of male and female fetuses in the same litter, those fetuses had higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and the males also showed better physical development, like longer trunks. These findings suggest that having male and female fetuses close together might provide advantages that help maintain an equal sex ratio in future generations. Who this helps: This benefits wildlife researchers and conservationists looking to understand animal reproduction and development.

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This study looked at whether making fresh fruits and vegetables more visible and appealing in corner stores could boost sales among families in the WIC program, which supports low-income women and children. Researchers found that during the study, fruit and vegetable sales in stores that improved their produce presentation increased by $40 a month, while sales in regular stores dropped by $23 a month. This shows that better placement of fresh produce can encourage healthier eating for families, potentially leading to better nutrition. Who this helps: This benefits low-income families participating in the WIC program.

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This study looked at how a mother’s depression after giving birth might affect her child's development, particularly in relation to a hormone called oxytocin, which plays a role in bonding and social behavior. Researchers found that children of chronically depressed mothers had lower levels of oxytocin and showed less responsiveness to social interactions compared to kids of mothers who were not depressed. Specifically, when mothers had low or medium oxytocin levels, their children's responses were worse, but if mothers had high oxytocin levels, the negative effects of depression did not impact their children as much. Who this helps: This helps mothers with postpartum depression and their children by highlighting the importance of supportive interactions to promote healthy development.

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This research explored how improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) can help control neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The study found that better coordination between health programs and WASH initiatives is necessary for effective disease prevention. By working together, these sectors can achieve their goal of disease-free communities with access to clean water and proper sanitation. Who this helps: This benefits communities at risk of neglected tropical diseases, health workers, and policymakers.

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This study tested a new inhaled medication called loxapine to quickly treat agitation in people with schizophrenia. Researchers found that inhaled loxapine significantly reduced agitation within just 10 minutes after the first dose, with both 5 mg and 10 mg doses proving effective. This matters because it offers a fast-acting, non-injection option for patients, which can improve their comfort and safety during episodes of agitation. Who this helps: Patients with schizophrenia dealing with agitation.

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This study looked at the views of 50 mental health professionals working with children and teenagers about using standardized assessments in their practice. While many practitioners recognized the benefits of these assessments—such as better organization and more information—about one-third had concerns, including feeling unprepared due to a lack of training. This is important because understanding these attitudes can help improve how assessments are used in order to better match families with the right services. Who this helps: This helps mental health practitioners and ultimately benefits children and families seeking care.

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This study reports on a 73-year-old woman who experienced severe shock and respiratory failure after receiving an intravenous medication called dipyridamole. Just a few minutes after the drug was administered, she developed wheezing, her blood pressure dropped, and she needed emergency treatment to help her breathe. The incident is concerning because it shows that dipyridamole can cause serious complications beyond what was previously understood, specifically a type of lung swelling not caused by heart issues. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors and patients who might receive dipyridamole, especially those with heart conditions.

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This study looked at how well children with Williams syndrome understand figurative language, like metaphors and metonymy, and compared their performance to typically developing children. The research found that ten children with Williams syndrome struggled more than eleven typically developing children: they understood metonymy (related words) at a level similar to their vocabulary, but their grasp of metaphors was notably weaker. Understanding these differences is important because it shows that, despite having strong language skills, children with Williams syndrome have unique challenges in grasping certain language concepts. Who this helps: This helps educators and therapists working with children with Williams syndrome.

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This study investigated how early changes in AMPA receptors (important proteins in the brain) affect the risk of developing epilepsy after neonatal seizures in young rats. Researchers found that after seizures, these AMPA receptors became more active, which was linked to an increase in neuronal excitability and a higher chance of future seizures. Specifically, they noticed that certain signaling pathways within the brain were rapidly triggered, and using specific drugs to block AMPA receptors immediately after seizures reduced these changes and the long-term risk of epilepsy. Who this helps: This helps infants experiencing neonatal seizures and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well a medication called Tramadol Contramid OAD worked for people with knee pain from osteoarthritis. Among 646 participants, those taking Tramadol had an average pain reduction of 3 points on a scale of 0 to 10, compared to those taking a placebo. This improvement was significant and many patients reported better overall changes in their pain levels. Who this helps: This helps patients with knee osteoarthritis looking for effective pain relief.

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The study looked at what kind of dental materials kids prefer for filling cavities in their back teeth. Out of 100 children aged 5 to 12, most liked composite resin fillings best, while amalgam fillings were the least favorite. Preferences varied by factors like age and ethnicity, with Caucasian kids preferring composites and African American kids leaning towards stainless steel crowns. Who this helps: This helps dentists understand children's preferences for dental materials, leading to better treatment choices.

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This study looked at how well a new small inhaler called the Aerodose delivers the asthma medication salbutamol compared to a standard nebulizer (Pari LC Plus) and a common metered dose inhaler (Ventolin Evohaler). Researchers found that the Aerodose Inhaler was about five times more effective in improving lung function in patients with moderate to severe asthma than either of the other devices. This is important because it means that patients may need less medication and experience better relief from their symptoms. Who this helps: This benefits asthma patients looking for more effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how a quality improvement program helped hospitals reduce the time it takes to start treatment for heart attacks using a procedure called primary angioplasty. Before the program, the average time from a patient arriving at the hospital to beginning the procedure was 141.3 minutes, but after the program, that time dropped to 95.1 minutes. This is important because quicker treatment improves chances of recovery after a heart attack. Who this helps: This benefits heart attack patients.

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This study focused on a protein called phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase (PheRS) from a type of bacteria. Researchers created high-quality images of the protein while it was interacting with a molecule that helps attach the amino acid phenylalanine to its tRNA. They found how the protein recognizes and binds to phenylalanine, with specific details about its structure and interactions, which are important for understanding how proteins are built in cells. Who this helps: This benefits scientists studying protein synthesis and could aid researchers developing treatments for genetic disorders affecting protein production.

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Researchers studied the effects of adding the drug paclitaxel to a treatment called continuous infusion 5-fluorouracil (5FU) for women with metastatic breast cancer. They found that while 5FU alone led to a 20% overall response rate, the combination treatment with paclitaxel increased that to 50%, including 10% of women experiencing a complete response. This matters because it shows that adding paclitaxel can make treatment more effective for women facing this challenging cancer. Who this helps: This benefits women with metastatic breast cancer.

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This study looked at how the drug ICI 182,780 affects the growth of the uterus in young female rats, especially in relation to another drug called tamoxifen. Researchers found that ICI 182,780 successfully stopped uterine growth caused by tamoxifen in a dose-dependent way, meaning higher doses had a stronger effect, with a significant reduction observed at just 10 micrograms. This is important because it shows that ICI 182,780 can counteract potentially harmful effects of tamoxifen, which may help improve treatment strategies for women using this medication. Who this helps: Patients who are prescribed tamoxifen, especially those concerned about its side effects.

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This study looked at how well family members’ reports of someone's drinking habits matched with direct interviews in diagnosing alcohol dependence. It found that when family history indicated a problem, there was a 98% chance it was accurate, but there was only a 39% chance that a person would actually be diagnosed correctly based on family reports alone. This is important because understanding the reliability of family history can help doctors make better diagnoses, especially when direct interviews aren’t possible. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in understanding alcohol dependence diagnoses more accurately.

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This study looked at the problem of abrupt closure of arteries after coronary procedures and how new medical devices impact this issue. It found that abrupt closures happened in 4.2% of cases, which is lower (1.8%) with newer devices compared to older techniques (4.9%). Additionally, successful rescue treatments are more common with these new devices, leading to fewer heart attacks (only 0.2% after rescue) and a lower need for emergency bypass surgery (0.9% overall). Who this helps: This benefits heart patients undergoing angioplasty, doctors using these new devices, and healthcare systems by reducing complications and emergency procedures.

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This study looked at the development of elastic tissue in the large blood vessels of bird embryos after a specific group of cells, called the cardiac neural crest, was removed. Researchers found that without these cells, the elastic tissue in the blood vessels did not develop properly, which was shown by slower growth of the elastic material in younger embryos and abnormal structure in older ones. These findings help explain why some patients with certain heart defects have weak elastic tissue in their pulmonary arteries. Who this helps: This benefits patients with congenital heart defects, particularly those who have issues with their pulmonary arteries.

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Researchers studied the risk of bipolar illness among family members of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder. They found that 5.7% of first-degree relatives of those with bipolar disorder develop the condition, compared to only 1.1% among relatives of those with major depression. Additionally, relatives of individuals who experienced bipolar symptoms early in life are at an even higher risk. Who this helps: This information helps patients and their families by increasing awareness of the genetic risks associated with bipolar disorder.

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This study looked at how nerve signals that control muscles work differently depending on the type of muscle fiber—specifically fast-twitch versus slow-twitch fibers. Researchers found that fast-twitch muscle fibers released more neurotransmitters during intense stimulation, showing a more significant response (up to 50% more) compared to slow-twitch fibers, which adapted more quickly at higher activation rates. Understanding these differences is important for improving treatments and training strategies for various muscle-related conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients with muscle disorders, athletes, and doctors treating these conditions.

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This study looked at mental health issues among 111 women doctors and 103 women with PhDs. It found that 51% of the women doctors had a significant mood disorder, compared to 32% of the PhDs, with a particularly high rate of depression among the psychiatrists at 73%. The study also revealed that over half of the women faced discrimination in their careers, which likely impacts both their mental health and job performance, especially for those with children. Who this helps: This research benefits women in professional fields, particularly doctors and academics, by highlighting the mental health challenges they face.

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Researchers studied 77 adolescents who were hospitalized for psychiatric issues and followed them for 8 to 10 years after their treatment, starting when they were around 16 years old. They found that 12 struggled with severe bipolar disorder, and 3 of these individuals took their own lives. In total, 23% of the participants were doing well and functioning normally by the end of the study, while others faced varying degrees of mental health challenges, with several experiencing depression and a couple of suicides. Who this helps: This information benefits mental health professionals, patients, and families by highlighting the long-term outcomes of adolescent psychiatric conditions.