ROLAND LINCOLN THOMAS, M.D.

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This study examined a method called peripheral plasma exchange (P-PLEX) for treating patients with liver disorders, comparing it to a more common method called central plasma exchange (C-PLEX). Out of 448 patients, 81 used P-PLEX, which proved to be safe, had similar effectiveness in removing specific harmful substances, and had fewer complications (only 2 out of 81) than C-PLEX (9 out of 81), even though the P-PLEX procedure took about 30 minutes longer. This is important because it means patients can safely receive treatment in a regular ward, which may help with convenience and reduce risks associated with using central lines. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disorders who need plasma exchange treatments.

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The study focused on a workshop held in the UK that aimed to develop and promote the idea of "One Paleopathology," which connects health and research from both the past and present. The workshop was successful: participants showed strong support for the concept, and eight new research projects started as a result. This is important because it helps bridge different fields of study and encourages collaborative research, leading to better understanding of health issues through history. Who this helps: Patients and researchers interested in the connections between health, history, and various scientific disciplines.

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This study looked at how to manage blood-thinning medications for people with advanced kidney disease and those who have received kidney transplants. It found that these patients often have serious conditions that require careful treatment with antithrombotic therapies, but the best way to manage these medications is not clear due to a lack of research involving these specific patients. This guidance helps healthcare providers make better decisions about medication management, ensuring safer treatment for their patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with kidney disease and kidney transplant recipients.

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Researchers studied a type of bacteria called Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which is carried by ticks and can affect both animals and humans. They discovered a new strain of this bacteria, known as ecotype VI, in ticks collected from five different locations in Uruguay between 2017 and 2022. Specifically, they found the bacteria in five of 223 ticks tested, highlighting the local role of ticks in spreading this bacteria and showing for the first time that it exists in Uruguay. Who this helps: This information is valuable for public health officials and doctors as it helps them understand and monitor diseases related to tick bites.

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This study looks at how to create carbon-phosphorus (C-P) and carbon-sulfur (C-S) bonds using a new method that uses less harsh chemicals than traditional approaches. Researchers found that using a process called electron upconversion allows for the formation of these bonds in a more controlled way, significantly reducing unwanted side reactions. This matters because it can make chemical reactions more efficient and environmentally friendly by relying on milder oxidants instead of strong ones. Who this helps: This helps chemists and researchers in organic synthesis.

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This study looked at whether certain features of intracranial pressure (ICP) waveforms could help detect and predict a dangerous condition called intracranial hypertension (IH) in patients with brain injuries. Among 121 patients, the researchers found that these waveform features could identify IH in 20% to 75% of cases and predict it in 13% to 53% of instances, with the best results coming from measuring the amplitude of the pressure waves. However, these results indicate that the features may not be reliable enough for regular clinical use, as they often failed to provide accurate information when used in real-time monitoring. Who this helps: This research helps doctors treating patients with brain injuries.

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This study looked at how people who have had encephalitis cope with stress and linked it to their mental health over time. Researchers monitored the mood and coping strategies of 20 adults after their encephalitis treatment for four months, finding that, on average, participants used a smartphone app to report their feelings nearly 80% of the time. This approach revealed that how individuals cope with stress significantly affects their levels of depression, suggesting that using daily assessments could improve support for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from encephalitis and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at factors that young people can actively change to help them recover from self-harm. It found that activities like exercise, art, and spending time with friends, along with techniques to cope with urges to self-harm (such as using ice cubes or elastic bands), can support recovery. The study highlights the importance of personalized strategies for recovery, as young people's needs and experiences can vary widely, making tailored approaches essential for effective help. Who this helps: This helps young people recovering from self-harm and the professionals supporting their recovery.

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This study followed a healthy woman in her 30s who developed serious brain swelling due to the herpes virus, leading to severe respiratory failure. While receiving intensive care, doctors found that her heart wasn't pumping well, showing significant dysfunction. After treatment that included antiviral medication and support for her heart, she fully recovered, underscoring the need to monitor heart health in patients with severe brain infections. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by emphasizing the importance of recognizing heart complications in severe cases of encephalitis.

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This study looked at how specific molecular signals help develop a type of immune cell called mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells. Researchers found that a protein called RelA is essential for the development of these cells in the thymus, while other proteins play a smaller role. Understanding this process is important because it helps researchers know how to promote or regulate the immune response. Who this helps: This helps patients with immune system issues and doctors working on targeted therapies.

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This research studied various combinations of a drug called atezolizumab with other treatments for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who had already been treated. The study found that the combination of atezolizumab with simlukafusp alfa given every three weeks had the highest objective response rate of 16.7%, while many treatments showed limited success overall. Due to significant side effects and low effectiveness, it highlighted the urgent need for better treatment options for patients with this challenging condition. Who this helps: Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

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This study looked at how a synthetic compound called a tyrosine peptide analog (TPA) affects tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) that transport genetic information (miRNAs) between cells in soft tissue sarcomas and stem cells. After treatment with TPA, researchers found that 182 different miRNAs were significantly changed, including a reduction of about 10 times in a particular cancer-related miRNA in one type of stem cell. This is important because these changes could help improve communication between cancer cells and their environment, potentially leading to better treatment options for sarcoma. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients and doctors treating soft tissue sarcoma.

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This study examined cancer in California sea lions, particularly a type called urogenital carcinoma (UGC), which is very common in these animals. Researchers found that a specific genetic change occurred in about 79% of the sea lions with UGC, and they also detected a virus linked to this cancer in nearly 96% of the tested sea lions. Understanding this cancer can help improve wildlife health and inform how environmental factors affect both animals and humans. Who this helps: This helps wildlife researchers, veterinarians, and conservationists.

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This study focused on creating a new framework to assess the quality of digital mental health tools, like apps and online programs, which are increasingly used by people needing support. Researchers involved over 400 participants, including users and experts, and they found that good user experience, strong data privacy, and solid evidence of effectiveness are crucial for these tools. This matters because it helps ensure that people using digital mental health resources receive safe and effective support. Who this helps: Patients seeking mental health support online.

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This study looked at how HIV-transcribing cells behave in people with HIV who are either experiencing active viral replication (viremia) or are being treated effectively with antiretroviral therapy (ART). The researchers developed a new method called "HIV-seq," which doubled the number of HIV signals they could detect from individual cells. They found that while HIV-transcribing cells in active infections show signs of killing other cells, those same cells in treated patients display markers that suggest they are less inflammatory. Understanding these differences helps scientists learn why HIV can stay in the body even when treatment is working. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with HIV and healthcare providers working on better treatments.

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This study examined the genetic differences in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) among 21 patients from the southwest coast of Karnataka, India, by analyzing their tumor and nearby normal tissue samples. The researchers found a wide variety of genetic mutations, including a specific mutation that appeared in 100% of the tumors. Understanding these mutations is important because it can guide better treatment choices and help identify patients at higher genetic risk for OSCC. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with OSCC and their doctors by providing insights for personalized treatment approaches.

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This study reviewed updated guidelines for diagnosing renovascular hypertension, a type of high blood pressure caused by narrow or blocked arteries supplying the kidneys. It found that this condition affects 0.5% to 5% of people with high blood pressure and is more common in those who struggle to manage their hypertension or in elderly patients with serious kidney issues. Different imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs are recommended depending on the patient's kidney health, with ultrasound being preferred for its safety and MRI being suitable for those with kidney problems. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating patients with difficult-to-control hypertension and chronic kidney disease.

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Researchers studied the skeletons of three red squirrels in Britain that had leprosy, looking for signs of bone damage. They found specific skeletal issues like erosion and porosity in various bones, including the feet and tail vertebrae. These findings are important because they show that leprosy affects red squirrels similarly to how it affects humans, which can help in understanding the disease better in both species. Who this helps: This benefits wildlife researchers and veterinarians studying infections in animals.

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This study surveyed doctors worldwide to understand how they manage blood-thinning medications in patients receiving ECMO, a life support treatment. Among the 72 respondents, 92% used a blood-thinning protocol, and 92% favored unfractionated heparin as the main medication, but most doctors only involved hematology specialists in complicated cases. The findings show that while many centers have protocols for treatment, there is still a lot of inconsistency in how ECMO patients are managed, which highlights the need for better coordination and research to improve patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients on ECMO and the doctors who care for them.

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This study examined how walking patterns change in patients with two types of nerve disorders—chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A)—when they are asked to think about other tasks at the same time. Researchers found that while both groups walked slower and with shorter strides when distracted, those with CIDP had a much bigger drop in walking speed, showing a decrease in how they lifted their feet, which raises their risk of falling. These findings highlight important differences in how patients with these conditions adapt to challenging situations, which can help shape rehabilitation strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with peripheral neuropathies and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined bone density in men who had suffered moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI) compared to healthy men. It found that the injured men had lower bone density, especially at the hip, and a higher risk of fractures; specifically, bone density at the hip was significantly lower, and the risk measurement at the femoral neck was higher (10.5 vs 9.6) when compared to the control group. These findings underscore the need for regular bone health assessments in TBI patients to prevent fractures due to weakened bones. Who this helps: This helps patients with traumatic brain injuries and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at factors that might lead to abnormal T cell receptor excision circles (TRECs) in newborns who do not have severe immune issues. Researchers found that out of 887 infants with abnormal TRECs, being male, having meconium-stained amniotic fluid, a history of blood transfusions, lower 5-minute APGAR scores, and having a mother with diabetes were all linked to these abnormalities. Notably, Black infants and those born to Black mothers showed higher rates of these abnormal TRECs, indicating important health disparities. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and health professionals working with newborns to better identify and understand immune health issues.

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This study looked at how two types of metal-based catalysts, palladium and nickel, are used in a specific chemical reaction to activate certain carbon bonds. The researchers found that nickel catalysts were generally more effective than palladium ones, with lower energy barriers for key steps in the reaction, making it easier for the process to occur. Understanding these differences is important because it can lead to the development of more efficient and cost-effective nickel-based alternatives for various chemical reactions. Who this helps: This helps chemists and industries looking for more affordable and efficient catalysts in chemical manufacturing.

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This study looked at how two types of cyclodextrins (a kind of sugar molecule) interact with certain naphthalenediimide molecules, focusing on hydrogen bonding to determine how these molecules fit together. Researchers found that the binding approach was different for the two types of cyclodextrin: one had a partial inclusion where the naphthalenediimide partially entered the cyclodextrin, while the other had a more external attachment. Specifically, they discovered that the second type formed stronger bonds, which could help in designing new materials that rely on noncovalent connections. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and engineers working on developing new materials that use noncovalent interactions.

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This study focused on understanding periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS), which are common but not well-understood movements that can occur during sleep. The researchers, part of an international taskforce, discussed key areas related to PLMS, including how they affect health, how to measure them, treatment options, and the need for better research methods. They concluded that PLMS should be seen not just as a simple count during sleep studies but as a complex set of behaviors with varying impacts on health, emphasizing the need for better tools and collaboration in research. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing sleep disorders and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how well different computer models can identify types of depression based on tweets. The researchers tested two approaches: using a few examples to guide a large language model (like Llama-3-8B) and fine-tuning another model (like RoBERTa-large). They found that the fine-tuned model performed much better, achieving a score of about 0.95 for identifying depression types, compared to 0.75 for the few-shot model. This matters because being able to accurately classify depression subtypes from social media may help in understanding mental health better and directing appropriate support. Who this helps: This helps patients and mental health professionals by improving the accuracy of depression diagnosis.

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This study looked at how a specific bacterium, Bacillus velezensis strain BE2, produces compounds known as lipopeptides to combat two plant diseases caused by fungi. Researchers found that when exposed to these fungi, the bacterium produced increased levels of important antifungal substances called iturin, fengycin, and surfactin, particularly peaking at three and five days after exposure. This matters because it shows that the bacterium can be used to develop natural alternatives to chemical pesticides, improving the management of crop diseases. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural practitioners seeking sustainable solutions for plant disease management.

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This study looked at a specific type of knee injury called a bucket handle tear of the medial meniscus, using MRI scans to help diagnose it. The researchers introduced a new MRI sign called the "Head in the Sand sign," which helps in recognizing this injury when usual signs are not clear. A 20-year-old man with knee pain and difficulty moving was treated, and after diagnosis and repair, he was able to fully move his knee again in just six weeks. Who this helps: This benefits doctors diagnosing knee injuries and patients experiencing knee pain.

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This study looked at blood cancer survival rates in the UK between 2009 and 2019, analyzing over 413,000 cases. Overall, survival rates improved slightly in England (by 3.8%), Northern Ireland (by 5.1%), and Wales (by 3%), but there was no improvement in Scotland. Factors such as being older, living in poorer areas, and being male were linked to lower survival rates, with certain ethnic groups in England experiencing worse outcomes for specific blood cancer types. Who this helps: This information helps patients and doctors understand survival disparities in blood cancers, guiding better care and treatment strategies.

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This study examined how tiny structures called extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the blood of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are linked to immune system issues and ongoing inflammation. Researchers found that these EVs had abnormal levels of certain proteins that can promote inflammation, which might worsen the symptoms of ASD. Importantly, they discovered that these EVs could increase a specific immune response, but treatment with an anti-inflammatory drug could reduce this effect, suggesting a new way to help manage ASD symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients with autism and their families by highlighting potential new treatments.

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This study explored how marijuana use affects people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in terms of flare-ups, which are periods of intensified symptoms. Among the 85 participants, 30% of those with RA used cannabis, and they were found to have a higher chance of experiencing longer flare-ups lasting more than 3 days. Specifically, cannabis users had 4.4 times the odds of longer flares compared to non-users, but there was no difference in how often flares occurred. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with RA and SLE by providing insights into the effects of cannabis on their conditions.

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This study looked at how certain compounds, called actinide formate complexes, are formed when specific elements like uranium and its neighbors in the periodic table interact with other chemical groups. The researchers found that these interactions vary depending on the halogens (like fluorine, chlorine, and bromine) attached to them, affecting how stable the compounds are and how easily they form. Understanding these processes is important because it helps scientists better grasp the chemical behavior of actinides, which is crucial for safety and efficiency in nuclear chemistry. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working in nuclear chemistry and environmental safety.

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This study focused on understanding how myeloid leukemia specific to children with Down syndrome develops from an earlier condition called transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM). Researchers found that mutations in the GATA1 gene play a key role, making up a significant part of the genetic changes in this type of leukemia—effectively influencing most of the leukemia's characteristics throughout its progression. This understanding is crucial because it highlights how specific genetic changes can inform treatment strategies for this type of leukemia in children with Down syndrome. Who this helps: This helps patients with Down syndrome and their doctors in developing targeted treatments for myeloid leukemia.

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This study looked at how juvenile Sjögren's disease (SjD) shows up in children and the best ways to diagnose it. Researchers analyzed the medical records of 15 young patients, finding that many had symptoms like swollen glands and joint pain, with 13 out of 15 testing positive for specific antibodies related to the disease. Establishing clearer diagnostic criteria for juvenile SjD is important, as it differs from adult cases and can lead to better treatment for affected children. Who this helps: This helps children with Sjögren's disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at a treatment called BIT, which combines three drugs (bevacizumab, irinotecan, and temozolomide), for young patients with advanced neuroblastoma, a serious cancer in children. Out of 66 patients treated, 40% showed improvement, with better results in those whose cancer was not responding to previous therapies (56% response rate compared to 31% in those who had relapsed). Patients who did not respond to earlier treatments lived longer without their cancer getting worse (median 13.2 months) compared to those who had relapsed (median 5.1 months). Who this helps: This helps children with high-risk neuroblastoma and their doctors in choosing effective treatment options.

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This study looked at two surgical options for treating early-stage kidney cancer: partial nephrectomy (PN), which removes only part of the kidney, and radical nephrectomy (RN), which removes the entire kidney. The researchers intend to enroll 420 patients and evaluate if PN results in better kidney function and fewer complications compared to RN over two years. The importance of this study lies in its potential to change treatment standards for patients with more complex kidney tumors, which could lead to better outcomes and lower healthcare costs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with localized renal cell carcinoma and their doctors.

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This study focused on how vitamins B2 and B3 could be used to help treat NAXD disease, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a lack of an important enzyme. Researchers found that when the enzyme was missing in mice, harmful substances built up in the brain and caused serious problems, but giving the mice vitamin B3 significantly improved their condition and even extended their lifespan by over 40 times. These findings show that adjusting vitamin levels can be an effective way to manage certain genetic diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with NAXD disease and their families.

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This study looks at different treatments for children with a condition called avascular necrosis in the lower limbs, where the bone doesn't get enough blood and can become damaged. Researchers want to understand how effective and safe surgical, non-surgical, and medication-based treatments are in reducing pain and improving movement in these children. Importantly, the study will also check if these treatments work differently for kids based on where they live, their gender, or age. Who this helps: This helps children with avascular necrosis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how Perthes disease, a rare hip condition in children, is evaluated and diagnosed. Researchers reviewed 32 studies and found a lot of inconsistency in the methods used: there were 16 types of clinical assessments and 23 types of imaging techniques, but 64% of the outcome measures used weren't proven to be reliable for kids. This inconsistency makes it harder for doctors to make decisions and for researchers to compare results across different studies. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working with children who have Perthes disease.

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This study looked at how the immune system influences the ability to control HIV after pausing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 75 people living with HIV. Researchers found that specific immune factors, particularly two proteins (DDIT4 and ZNF254), were linked to a slower HIV rebound after treatment was stopped; for example, people with higher levels of these proteins experienced delays in HIV rebound. This research is important because it identifies potential new ways to keep HIV under control without ongoing ART, using existing drugs like metformin, a diabetes medication. Who this helps: Patients living with HIV who are looking for alternative treatments.

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This study focused on how to best use imaging techniques to detect and monitor renal and splanchnic artery aneurysms, which can be dangerous if they rupture. It found that CT angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are preferred for adults, while ultrasound methods are safer for pregnant women to reduce radiation risks. The recommendations help improve the accuracy of diagnosis and ensure safer treatment options. Who this helps: Patients at risk of renal or splanchnic artery aneurysms, especially pregnant women.

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A mouse model of menopause (ovary removal) developed higher circulating levels of asprosin — a hormone released by fat tissue — along with weight gain, arterial stiffness, and metabolic syndrome features over 20 weeks. Asprosin directly caused blood vessels to constrict in lab tests, suggesting it may contribute to the vascular complications seen after menopause. The findings support investigating asprosin as a biomarker and potential drug target for cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women.

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Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) uses microspheres injected into the hepatic artery to deliver targeted radiation to liver tumors, and was tested in a prospective multicenter phase 2 study for inoperable neuroendocrine tumor liver metastases. The study found meaningful tumor response rates with an acceptable safety profile and identified a dose-response relationship where higher radiation doses correlated with better outcomes. SIRT is an effective liver-directed therapy for this patient population when surgery is not an option.

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This study looked at how accurately hospitals record when patients change their addresses in health data. Researchers analyzed data from over 40,000 hospital records alongside another 40,000 address records, finding that 95.7% of patients had matching addresses across the two datasets. They determined that regardless of the method used to estimate when address changes happened, the accuracy was about 78%, suggesting that improvements in how hospitals record this information are necessary. Who this helps: This helps researchers and health data analysts working on public health and policy.