DR. SAEEDA ZAMAN CHOWDHURY, M.D.

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This study focused on a tough-to-treat type of pancreatic cancer known as basal-like pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Researchers found that a protein called keratin 17 (K17) helps these cancer cells thrive by supporting their growth and making them resistant to chemotherapy. Specifically, when they blocked K17's function in mitochondria, cancer cells became more sensitive to the drug gemcitabine, leading to a noticeable reduction in tumor growth and a doubling of survival time in mice treated with both the drug and a specific inhibitor. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with basal-like pancreatic cancer by opening up new treatment options.

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This study looked at a new type of tiny metal cluster in silver that can improve the detection of molecules using a technique called surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Researchers created a hybrid structure using silver and gold nanoparticles, which greatly boosted the signals they could detect, achieving an enhancement factor of about 6 million. This is important because it allows for more sensitive and stable measurements in conditions that are typically challenging for traditional methods. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors who need to detect small amounts of molecules in various fields, including medicine and environmental monitoring.

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This study looked at how certain ice structures, called clathrate hydrates, can behave like chemical reactors when exposed to specific light radiation in a vacuum. Researchers found that at very low temperatures (10 K), these structures quickly break down and don't effectively trap new chemicals, but at higher temperatures (130 K), they can reform and capture new chemical products, like formaldehyde. This matters because it helps us understand how ice in space can participate in chemical reactions, which could have implications for the origins of life and the chemistry of other planetary environments. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying chemistry in space and the potential for life beyond Earth.

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This study looked at how cholesterol in tiny fat particles (lipid nanoparticles) used for drug delivery affects cancer growth. Researchers found that certain forms of oxidized cholesterol can either slow down cancer growth or, in some cases, make it worse. Specifically, they discovered that some types, like 7α-hydroxycholesterol, can help fight tumors, while others, like 7-ketocholesterol, can aid tumor growth. These findings are significant because they show that modifying these lipid nanoparticles could improve cancer treatment effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients by improving the effectiveness of treatments.

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This study focused on creating a new type of hydrogel that can quickly repair itself and is strong enough for practical uses. The new hydrogel, made from natural materials, showed impressive self-healing abilities and could remove heavy metals from water with high efficiency—up to 114.02 mg/g for nickel. This is important because it offers a sustainable solution for cleaning up polluted water and can also be used in next-generation energy storage devices. Who this helps: This benefits environmental engineers, water treatment facilities, and energy storage developers.

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This study looked at natural compounds from plants that might fight lung cancer by targeting specific proteins linked to the disease. Researchers found that two compounds, 17Beta-Hydroxywithanolide K and Ginkgolide A, showed strong potential against these targets, with binding strengths of -9.4 Kcal/mol and -6.9 Kcal/mol, making them more effective than some traditional synthetic drugs. These natural compounds also showed good traits like high absorption in the body and low toxicity, which is important for safe treatments. Who this helps: This helps lung cancer patients looking for alternative treatment options.

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This study explored the genetic factors that affect important soybean traits such as flowering time, maturity, and seed size by examining 374 different soybean plants over two growing seasons in South Korea. Researchers identified key genetic markers linked to these traits, discovering six major locations in the plant's DNA that influence seed size and two that affect flowering and maturity. These findings are crucial for developing better soybean varieties, potentially improving crop yield and quality. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural researchers working to enhance soybean production.

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This study focused on creating a new way to deliver the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (Dox) specifically for melanoma treatment. Researchers developed a special polymer that can hold more of the drug and release it slowly over time, showing impressive results in mice where tumor growth was significantly reduced, while also lowering side effects of the treatment. This method keeps drug levels effective for up to 72 hours, reducing the need for frequent injections. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients, particularly those with melanoma.

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This study looked at how a specific silver nanocluster reacts with a chemical called thiol when mixed in different amounts. The researchers found that varying the amounts produced various new compounds, which helps to better understand the reactions that occur during the transformation of these materials. This understanding is important because it can lead to improved development of advanced materials for technologies like sensors and drug delivery. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working on nanotechnology and materials science.

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This study examined the number of deaths in rural Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic, comparing data from before the pandemic (2018-2019) to during it (2020-2021). Researchers found that the overall death rate rose from 44.1 to 50.9 per 1,000 people, with a significant 82% jump in deaths from respiratory diseases. This increase highlights the pandemic's severe impact on health, especially among older adults with conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and healthcare providers focus on protecting vulnerable groups during future pandemics.

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This study focused on understanding the genetics behind the protein, oil, and carbohydrate content in soybean seeds. Researchers found significant negative relationships among these nutrients, meaning that increasing one often leads to decreases in the others, with correlations between -0.323 and -0.656. They identified nine key genetic regions linked to these traits, including three that influence multiple nutrient levels, which could help in developing better soybean varieties with improved nutrition. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists improve soybean quality for consumers.

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This study looked at the genetic mutations found in biliary tract cancers (BTCs), which are rare but aggressive cancers affecting the bile ducts and gallbladder. Researchers analyzed data from 5,123 samples across 13 countries and found significant differences in mutation patterns based on geographic location and the specific type of BTC. For example, certain mutations were more prevalent in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma from the Eastern Hemisphere compared to the Western Hemisphere, highlighting the need for tailored treatment approaches based on these genetic differences. Who this helps: This benefits patients with biliary tract cancers and their doctors by providing insights for more personalized treatment plans.

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This study looked at why anthrax is still affecting livestock in Bangladesh. Researchers found that certain practices, like allowing animals to graze together (which increased infection risk by 167%) and not vaccinating them (which lowered infection risk by 94% when done), contributed significantly to outbreaks. Contaminated soil and poor farm management practices also raised the risks, pointing to the need for better vaccination and farming techniques to prevent future infections in both animals and humans. Who this helps: This helps farmers, veterinarians, and public health officials working to control anthrax outbreaks.

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Researchers developed Chromatix, a new software tool that makes it easier and faster to simulate how light behaves in various optical systems, such as microscopes. This tool can run simulations 2 to 6 times faster on one computer chip and up to 22 times faster when using eight chips at once. This is important because it opens up more possibilities for research and development in optical technologies, making advanced imaging techniques more accessible and efficient. Who this helps: This benefits scientists and engineers working with optical systems in fields like medical imaging and photography.

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This study looked at a treatment for pancreatic cancer, which is known for being difficult to treat. Researchers tested combining a certain antibody therapy (agonistic CD40) with a drug that blocks IL-1R1 to see if it would improve the cancer treatment's effectiveness and reduce liver side effects. They found that while the combination activated the immune system and helped mice live longer, it did not enhance the antibody's effectiveness or lessen liver damage. Who this helps: This research provides important information for doctors treating pancreatic cancer, guiding them on the effectiveness and risks of these therapies.

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This study focused on how the drug etomidate affects hormone levels in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), a rare type of cancer. Researchers found that while etomidate significantly lowered the levels of cortisol (by more than 50%) and aldosterone, the level of a different hormone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, increased by about 300%. Despite this increase, potassium levels in the blood returned to normal, suggesting that the body has complex ways to manage hormone levels and maintain balance. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with adrenocortical carcinoma and their doctors by improving understanding of hormone management during treatment.

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The study looked at how liposuction during breast reduction surgery affects complications after the procedure in two different surgical techniques. It found that liposuction increases the risk of complications in patients who had the inferior pedicle technique, but not for those using the superomedial pedicle technique. Using closed-suction drains significantly reduced the chances of specific complications, like T-point breakdown and fluid collection, in patients who had liposuction with the inferior pedicle method. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing breast reduction surgery with liposuction by reducing their risk of complications.

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Researchers explored a new type of vaccine designed to protect pigs from porcine respiratory coronavirus (PRCV), a virus that can also inform human coronavirus research. They found that a specific vaccine decorated with a receptor-binding part of the virus boosted antibody levels significantly and provided strong protection against the virus. In tests, this vaccine platform not only worked well against PRCV but also showed promise for protecting pigs from other pig viruses. Who this helps: This benefits pig farmers and veterinarians aiming to protect livestock against respiratory diseases.

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This study looked at how charged water microdroplets can create tiny metal particles, such as silver, copper, and gold, using two different methods: breaking down bigger pieces of metal ("top-down") and building them up from smaller chemical components ("bottom-up"). The researchers found that silver and copper efficiently turned into stable nanoparticles using the top-down method, while gold did not break down as well. This approach is important because it offers a more environmentally friendly and flexible way to produce these metal particles, which are useful in various applications, from electronics to medicine. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers working on advanced materials.

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This study looked at how many adults with diabetes in the U.S. missed seeing their doctors for a year or more between 2018 and 2022, including during the COVID pandemic. It found that nearly half (49.8%) of adults with diabetes went over a year without visiting a diabetes provider, and 5.9% had no visits at all during the entire four years. This is important because missing regular medical care can worsen health and diabetes control, especially among certain groups like Hispanic, Black, and uninsured individuals. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes, especially those in underserved communities.

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This study looked at how the chemotherapy drug cisplatin (CDDP) affects osteosarcoma (OS) cells, specifically how it changes their gene activity and helps them survive despite treatment. The researchers found that cisplatin increases oxidative stress, leading to changes in the epigenome that help OS cells resist the drug. They discovered that by blocking a protein called YAP, they could make these cancer cells more sensitive to cisplatin, suggesting a new way to improve treatment effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits patients with osteosarcoma by potentially improving their chemotherapy outcomes.

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This study looked at the role of a protein called TRF2 in mouse neural stem cells (mNSCs), which are important for brain development and repair. Researchers found that while TRF2 is crucial for the survival and growth of these stem cells, it doesn't actually protect the ends of chromosomes like it does in other cells. Specifically, when TRF2 was removed in adult mNSCs, the cells lost their ability to grow and differentiate into neurons, which shows that TRF2 helps control key genes to keep these stem cells functioning properly. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on brain health and potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

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This study focused on how well KRAS inhibitors, specifically MRTX1133 and RMC-6236, work against appendiceal adenocarcinoma (AA), a rare cancer. The researchers found that MRTX1133 was highly effective, showing strong tumor growth reduction in lab models and clinical responses in 6 heavily treated patients, with 1 complete response and 1 partial response. This matters because it highlights a promising new treatment option for a cancer that currently has limited therapies. Who this helps: This helps patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma.

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This study looked at how different types of blood pressure medications affect the risk of having a stroke. It analyzed data from 10 studies involving over 180,000 participants and found that no specific class of medication was better than the others for stroke prevention overall. However, if a medication effectively lowers systolic blood pressure by more than 2 mmHg, it significantly reduces the risk of stroke by 22%. Who this helps: This helps patients with high blood pressure.

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This study looked at Bangladesh's efforts to manage health risks that come from the close relationship between people, animals, and the environment, known as the One Health approach. While Bangladesh has made progress since 2008 in adopting this approach—such as creating a One Health Secretariat and improving collaboration among different health sectors—there are still many challenges. For example, funding is often short-term and dependent on outside donations, which makes sustained progress difficult. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and communities by improving disease prevention and response efforts.

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This study looked at how well a drug called amivantamab works in patients with advanced colorectal cancer who had not responded to previous chemotherapy treatments. Out of 94 patients, 29% of those who received the drug had a positive response to the treatment, with responses lasting over 9 months for some. These findings are important because they suggest that amivantamab could provide a new treatment option for patients with tough-to-treat colorectal cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have run out of other treatment options.

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The study focused on creating "myPPMI," a virtual research platform for the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative, which has evolved over 15 years to support more effective research methods. This platform allows for streamlined recruitment and data collection for Parkinson's studies, making it easier to track participants' progress and gather important health information. It helps researchers target specific groups for more in-depth studies, improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of Parkinson's disease research. Who this helps: This benefits patients, researchers, and healthcare providers involved in Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at new thin films made from a lead-free material called BaSrTiO (BST) and how they can be used in electronic devices. Researchers found that when they adjusted the composition of the material, it displayed excellent properties for electrical performance, specifically a dielectric tunability of around 91% and a high breakdown electric field of about 800 kV/cm, which means they can handle a lot of electrical stress. This is important because it makes these materials suitable for advanced electronics like microwave devices, and they can be easily integrated with silicon, which is commonly used in the industry. Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers of electronic devices, as well as patients who rely on advanced medical devices.

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This study looked at the prevalence and potential risk factors for short intervals between births among women of childbearing age in Bangladesh. It found that 34% of these women experienced short birth intervals, with factors like being aged 19 or younger (over six times more likely), living in certain regions, lacking education, being from poorer households, and not using modern contraception being significant contributors. Understanding these factors is vital for improving maternal and child health in the country. Who this helps: This helps women in Bangladesh and healthcare providers focused on maternal health.

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This research focused on improving imaging techniques to visualize the internal structure of samples without needing dyes or labels. The scientists developed a method that accurately measures both the refractive index and the absorptivity of samples, which are essential for understanding how light interacts with different materials. They found that combining various lighting angles and focusing techniques allows for more accurate representation of these properties, significantly enhancing the imaging of complex biological tissues that naturally absorb light. Who this helps: Patients and doctors looking for clearer, label-free imaging of biological tissues.

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The Parkinson's Progression Marker Initiative (PPMI) has spent 15 years gathering detailed health data from thousands of people to improve understanding and treatment of Parkinson's disease. Researchers have developed methods for collecting and analyzing this information, which has helped differentiate between various types of Parkinson's-related conditions. This ongoing research is crucial for identifying the disease earlier, understanding its biology, and creating new treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Parkinson's disease and their doctors.

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This research focused on defining and organizing the stages of diseases linked to alpha-synuclein, such as Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The study highlighted the contributions of the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative, which helped develop a new system for understanding these diseases better. This initiative has provided essential data on disease markers and progression, improving the design of clinical trials and treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors by improving disease understanding and treatment strategies.

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This study looked at how stigma and violence affect people with skin neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Liberia from 2019 to 2023. Researchers found that while overall stigma and violence have decreased, emotional abuse and self-stigmatization are still serious issues, especially for women and those with leprosy. Understanding these experiences is crucial for improving healthcare access and support for affected individuals, as addressing stigma and violence is essential for fair treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with skin neglected tropical diseases and the healthcare providers who work with them.

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This study looked at how changing temperatures affects the arrangement of manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) in a special type of ceramic called a nanocomposite. Researchers found that when the material is heated to specific temperatures (700°C and 800°C), it leads to a desirable arrangement of Mn and Fe, resulting in magnetic properties that can operate at temperatures around 225 K. This work is significant because it offers new ways to design materials with tailored magnetic and electrical properties, which can be useful in various technological applications. Who this helps: This benefits materials scientists and engineers developing advanced electronic devices.

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This study looked at how certain cells in the immune system, called macrophages, help heal tissues by clearing out dead cells. Researchers found that when macrophages consume these dead cells, they quickly activate a specific protein (IKKβ) that kickstarts healing processes, leading to important outcomes like producing a healing molecule (IL-10) and promoting the growth of regulatory immune cells. Importantly, when the IKKβ protein was disabled in macrophages, healing was significantly impaired, which is particularly relevant for heart disease treatment because it affects how the body recovers from conditions like atherosclerosis. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic inflammatory diseases and cardiovascular issues.

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This study focuses on a trial called the Path to Prevention (P2P) that tests new treatments for early-stage Neuronal Alpha-Synuclein disease, a condition related to Parkinson's disease. The trial will use information and resources from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) to ensure a successful study. This is significant because it is one of the first efforts to create a solid framework for testing interventions for this early stage of the disease, potentially leading to better treatment options. Who this helps: This helps patients with early-stage Neuronal Alpha-Synuclein disease.

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This study looked at a type of colorectal cancer with a specific mutation (BRAF V600E) and tested a new treatment approach that combined existing drugs to target how cancer cells change and grow. Researchers found that using a combination of drugs that inhibit both the BRAF and EGFR pathways, along with a drug that affects how genes are activated, improved treatment effectiveness. Specifically, this approach led to a significant decrease in cancer cell growth signals, showing better results than using the drugs alone. Who this helps: This benefits patients with treatment-resistant BRAF-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at how clathrate hydrates (ice structures that trap gas molecules) react to ultraviolet (UV) light compared to regular ice and mixtures. It found that when UV light hits acetaldehyde clathrate hydrates at very low temperatures, they hold onto more resulting chemicals—about 70% of products like carbon monoxide and CHCHOH—compared to other types of ice that released more products. This is significant because it shows that these structures can change the way chemicals react and might play an important role in how complex molecules form in space. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying chemical reactions in space and potentially informs future space exploration and astrobiology.

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This study examined how recruitment strategies for research participants have changed in the context of Parkinson's disease (PD) research over time. The researchers found that the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) expanded its focus from early-stage, untreated PD to include various groups, such as those with specific genetic markers and early signs of PD identified through sleep behavior tests. This shift towards using biological markers for enrollment is important because it helps develop better strategies for early detection and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for Parkinson's disease and researchers looking to understand the disease better.

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This study looked at the loss of fish after they are harvested in Bangladesh and how this affects food security. Researchers found that, on average, small-scale farmers lost about 10% of their fish, while traders lost around 12% due to factors like bad weather, spoilage, and poor handling practices. Improving storage and transport, along with training for those involved in fishing, can help reduce these losses, ensuring more fish reaches consumers and improves nutrition. Who this helps: This research benefits small-scale fish farmers, traders, and consumers in Bangladesh.

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This study looked at how a signaling pathway called S1P-S1PR1 affects a type of immune cell known as CD8 T cells inside tumors. Researchers found that this pathway weakens these T cells, making them less effective at fighting cancer by increasing their likelihood of dying and reducing their ability to carry out their functions. Targeting this pathway might enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments like anti-PD-1 therapy, which is important for helping patients fight their tumors. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.

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This research focused on developing a new type of cancer treatment called a dual-payload antibody-drug conjugate (DualADC) specifically for aggressive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The study found that this DualADC effectively reduces tumor size in mouse models with minimal side effects, showing significant improvements over existing treatments; it combined direct chemotherapy and immune therapy, leading to high killing rates of cancer cells and activation of immune responses. This matters because it offers a more targeted and potentially more effective way to treat a difficult-to-manage form of cancer with fewer toxic effects on healthy tissues. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

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This study looked at how certain brain cells in rats help control behaviors like seeking food when they see a light. The researchers found that blocking AMPA receptors in a specific part of the brain called the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex reduced the rats' motivated behavior linked to the light that was associated with food—showing a significant decrease in their response compared to those that were not blocked. These findings highlight the important role of AMPA receptors in expressing learned behaviors, which could help us understand similar mechanisms in humans. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors studying behavior and motivation in both animals and humans.

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This study looks at coumarins, small chemical compounds found in plants and microorganisms, to understand their potential uses in medicine. Researchers found that coumarin derivatives can affect cell growth and death, which is important for developing anticancer drugs, and they can also be modified to fight infections. Although laboratory tests show promise for these compounds, more research is needed before they can be effectively used in clinical settings. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who are seeking new treatments for cancer and infections, as well as doctors looking for effective medications.