DR. SCOTT MICHAEL GRAHAM, M.D.

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This study examined the risk of skin and nipple tissue dying (necrosis) after a type of breast surgery (nipple-sparing mastectomy) that involves implants. Out of 274 surgeries performed, 8% experienced necrosis, with varying severity: 27.3% were superficial, 31.8% partial, and 40.9% full thickness. Key factors linked to a higher risk include previous radiation treatment, low blood flow measurements from a special imaging test, and the absence of a specific blood vessel during surgery. Understanding these risks helps improve surgical outcomes and patient recovery. Who this helps: Patients undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer or prevention.

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This study looked at how using tampons affects the absorption of two hormones, segesterone acetate (SA) and ethinyl estradiol (EE), released from the Annovera contraceptive vaginal ring. The researchers found that using tampons for four consecutive days while using the Annovera ring did not change the absorption of these hormones, with measurements showing no significant differences (GMRs of 0.98 for SA and 0.97 for EE). This matters because many women use tampons during their menstrual periods, and they can be confident that it won't affect the contraceptive effectiveness of the Annovera ring. Who this helps: This helps women who use the Annovera ring for contraception.

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This study looked at how being bullied in high school affects people's relationships and work experiences later in life, focusing on how blaming oneself and the racial make-up of the school influenced these experiences. Researchers followed 723 diverse teenagers and found that as bullying continued, those who blamed themselves more often faced greater internal struggles, which led to increased chances of experiencing harassment in romantic relationships and at work as young adults. Specifically, teens in schools with a racial/ethnic majority were more likely to self-blame, putting them at even greater risk for these negative outcomes. Who this helps: This research helps young adults who have been bullied, as well as their counselors and support systems.

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This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of nutritional supplements for people receiving cancer care, reviewing 52 comprehensive studies on various supplements. The researchers found that amino acids and certain enzymes can help reduce skin issues from radiation, and N-acetyl cysteine can prevent nerve damage from chemotherapy in gastrointestinal cancer patients. However, most evidence about the benefits of supplements is uncertain, and while serious side effects were rare, they were noted for high-dose Vitamin A and zinc. Who this helps: This research is particularly useful for cancer patients seeking supportive care options.

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This study looked at the effects of flu and whooping cough vaccinations during pregnancy on the health of twins at birth. Researchers found that among nearly 11,435 twin births, mothers who got vaccinated did not have a higher risk of premature births, stillbirths, or small babies compared to those who did not get vaccinated. This is important because it reassures pregnant women with twins that these vaccinations do not pose extra risks to their babies, who are generally at higher risk for complications. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women expecting twins and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how women with breast cancer and healthcare professionals feel about adding supportive care before and during their cancer treatment. Researchers found that both groups believe early support—like exercise and mental health care—is essential for managing side effects and improving recovery. They noted that a simple and flexible program where patients can easily sign up would work best to help them through treatment. Who this helps: This benefits breast cancer patients and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among infants in Queensland, Australia, between 2022 and 2023. They found a total of 18,683 RSV notifications, with the rates being 79.7 per 1,000 in 2022 and 84.8 per 1,000 in 2023, and the highest rates were seen in one-month-old and twelve-month-old infants. The research showed that infants in areas with larger families and in temperate or arid climates had higher rates of infection, while those in remote areas had lower rates, which could mean they are not getting tested enough. Who this helps: This information helps doctors and health officials target high-risk areas to improve RSV prevention for young children.

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This study looked at how much Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people know about and use contraception. Out of 375 participants, 83% were aware of condoms and 27% of sexually active individuals did not use any contraception the last time they had sex. This matters because, while many young people know about contraceptive options, a significant number are not using them, which can lead to unplanned pregnancies. Who this helps: This helps young Indigenous Australians and health workers looking to improve reproductive health education.

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This study examined how well common tests, called FISH probes, can detect specific genetic changes linked to acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a serious blood cancer. The researchers looked at two unique cases of APL and found that standard tests missed some unusual genetic rearrangements: one test worked for one case but not the other. These findings are important because they highlight the need for better testing methods to accurately diagnose APL and provide timely treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia.

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This study tested a teaching method called Strategic and Interactive Writing Instruction (SIWI) on deaf students in grades 3-6 to see if it improved their writing skills compared to regular instruction. Out of 294 students, those who received SIWI performed better, especially in recount writing, with a notable improvement (effect size of 1.11), and they were also more motivated to write. While this study didn’t show significant changes in overall writing skills compared to previous research, the results still highlight the effectiveness of SIWI in helping deaf students. Who this helps: This helps deaf students and their teachers.

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This research paper studied the role of specific cells in the retina, called glial cells, in conditions like glaucoma and age-related diseases of the eye. It found that these cells can become harmful during diseases, contributing to inflammation and damage in the eye. By focusing on these cells, researchers hope to better understand how to prevent vision loss and create treatments more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with eye diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at how certain factors like landscape composition, temperature, and the presence of cotton plants affect the spread of a virus called cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) among cotton crops in Alabama and Georgia. The researchers found that more cotton plants, higher temperatures, and more cotton aphids (the insects that spread the virus) lead to more cases of CLRDV. Specifically, they noted that temperature and the amount of cotton in the landscape significantly increased the virus's spread, which is important for managing this disease and protecting cotton yields. Who this helps: This research benefits cotton farmers by providing insights that can help them reduce crop losses from this virus.

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This study examined the impact of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) on the ability of working-age individuals in Sweden to work. Researchers found that adults with SMA missed an average of 100 more workdays each year compared to their healthy peers, leading to an annual loss of about €31,638 per patient, primarily due to their condition. Additionally, premature death from SMA resulted in a loss of future earnings, averaging €108,253 for men and €87,160 for women. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with SMA, their families, and healthcare providers by highlighting the significant economic impact of the disease.

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This study looked at changes in DNA in pancreatic cancer cases to understand what might help cancer develop. Researchers found that nearly 40% of pancreatic cancers had extra copies of a specific part of chromosome 1, which is linked to cancer development. They also discovered that these extra copies were present in almost half of precancerous lesions that are likely to become cancerous, but rare in lower-risk lesions. This is important because identifying these genetic changes can help in early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for pancreatic cancer and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at research on child sexual abuse (CSA) specifically in Indigenous communities across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Researchers found 46 relevant studies published between 2000 and 2023, with the majority focusing on the treatment and support of survivors, but noted that much of the research does not reflect Indigenous cultural contexts. This is important because understanding these unique cultural perspectives can improve prevention and responses to CSA in Indigenous populations. Who this helps: This helps Indigenous communities, their leaders, and organizations working to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse.

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This study looked at ways to boost the rates of HPV vaccinations for kids by the time they turn 13. In two years, the group that received a new comprehensive approach saw an increase in vaccination initiation from 75.5% to 82.0%, compared to a smaller increase in the control group (from 74.6% to 75.5%); completion rates also improved more in the intervention group (from 50.1% to 57.8%). These findings matter because effective HPV vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of certain cancers in children and young adults. Who this helps: Patients and their families.

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This research studied how different surgical methods—breast-conserving surgery (BCS) versus mastectomy—affect survival and recurrence rates in patients with borderline and malignant phyllodes tumours. The findings revealed that BCS led to better overall survival rates (about 10% better) for patients with malignant tumours, but it also increased the risk of local recurrence (about 2.5 times higher). This information is crucial because it helps doctors determine the best surgical option and manage patient expectations regarding treatment outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with borderline and malignant phyllodes tumours, as well as their doctors.

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This study examined how beef bulls differ in their ability to efficiently use feed based on their blood markers. Researchers analyzed 302 bulls over 56 days, measuring their feed intake, weight, and blood samples. They discovered that certain blood compounds, like choline and specific metabolites, can help identify which bulls are more feed-efficient, highlighting a potential way to improve cattle farming practices. Who this helps: This helps farmers and ranchers optimize feed use in beef production.

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This study looked at how antipsychotic medications are prescribed and how patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are treated in two hospitals in South Australia over a year. Researchers found that most patients (97%) received maintenance antipsychotics, while nearly half of those prescribed second-generation oral antipsychotics stopped taking them (49.5%). The findings show that while many treatment practices followed guidelines, there were some gaps, such as not routinely checking patients’ metabolic health during treatment, which could help improve care. Who this helps: This helps patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at two different ways to suspend the hyoid bone during surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can help open up the airway. It found that while both methods were effective, the hyomandibular suspension improved sleep apnea scores more significantly, achieving a high success rate of 73.8% in patients compared to 57.5% for the hyothyroidpexy method. This is important because it helps identify which surgical approach might lead to better outcomes for patients suffering from severe OSA. Who this helps: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

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This study looked at a protein called Csx15, which is part of a defense system in bacteria that helps fight off viruses. Researchers found that Csx15 can connect with other Csx15 proteins to effectively bind to a signaling molecule known as cyclic tetra-adenylate (cA4), which helps control the immune response in bacteria. The ability of Csx15 to either trap or slowly break down cA4 is significant because it shows how viruses can be resisted. Who this helps: This research aids scientists and developers in designing new antiviral strategies.

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Researchers studied how damage from tarnished plant bugs affects cotton growth and fiber yield in the southeastern United States. They found that while early injury to cotton plants can change their shape, it rarely decreases the amount of cotton produced, except in the latest-planted crops, which had reduced yields in some cases. This highlights the importance of planting cotton at the right time to minimize the impact of pests. Who this helps: Cotton farmers and agricultural advisors.

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This study looks at a new program called Infant Parent Support (IPS), designed to help families with young children who have social workers. It targets children aged 0-5 and aims to improve mental health for both parents and kids, especially in families dealing with stress from their own childhoods, neurodevelopmental issues, or financial struggles. The researchers want to see if they can successfully recruit and retain 30 families for a future, larger study, which would assess the effectiveness of IPS compared to usual care. Who this helps: This helps families with young children who are facing challenges related to mental health and social services.

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This study looked at a technique called axillary reverse mapping (ARM) to help prevent lymphedema, a common complication after surgery for breast cancer. Researchers found that in 100 patients, they successfully identified lymph nodes using a special dye in 95% of cases, but about 19% of those nodes had cancer spread. This is important because it shows that while the technique is useful, it may not be safe to always preserve these nodes, particularly in patients with advanced cancer, suggesting that other methods may be needed to prevent lymphedema. Who this helps: Patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer.

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This study looked at a peer navigation program for people living with HIV in Australia to understand how it adapts and remains effective amidst changes in the health landscape, including the impacts of COVID-19. Researchers interviewed 30 individuals involved in the program and found that its success relied on strong community engagement and alignment with healthcare services. The program successfully influenced policies that helped reduce challenges faced by people with HIV during the pandemic. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV, healthcare workers, and policy makers.

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This study looked at the role of brain support cells (glial cells) and immune responses in the eye of people with glaucoma, comparing 18 patients with glaucoma to 32 healthy individuals and those with other eye conditions. It found that even in the early stages of glaucoma, there was significant loss of nerve cells and widespread changes in glial cells, indicating a strong inflammatory response that wasn't directly linked to the degree of nerve cell damage. These findings suggest that targeting the inflammatory processes in glaucoma could lead to new treatment options. Who this helps: Patients with glaucoma who could benefit from new therapies targeting inflammation.

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This study looked at how middle school students develop friendships based on race or ethnicity and how this relates to their sense of identity and biases against other groups. Researchers followed 4,576 students over several years and found that those who preferred friends of the same race or ethnicity – especially students from racial or ethnic minority backgrounds – also tended to feel more connected to their racial or ethnic identity. However, their choice of friends wasn’t strongly linked to negative attitudes towards other groups. Who this helps: This information helps educators and parents understand how friendship patterns impact the development of identity in young people.

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This study looks at how painting tiles together improves the well-being of healthcare workers by offering them a chance to bond and share creative experiences. Participants reported feeling happier and more connected to their colleagues, which is important for teamwork in health settings. This matters because fostering strong relationships among healthcare workers can lead to better patient care and a healthier work environment. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare workers and the patients they serve.

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This study looked at a specific enzyme called SAM-AMP lyase in the context of bacterial defenses against viruses. Researchers found that this enzyme can effectively replace another enzyme in a different bacteria to help protect against viral attacks, specifically by breaking down a signaling molecule called SAM-AMP. Understanding how these enzymes work is important because it sheds light on how bacteria defend themselves, which can lead to new strategies for using CRISPR technology. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on bacterial infections and CRISPR technologies.

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This study looked at how glioblastoma tumors use fats for growth and how changing the diet can affect them. The researchers found that a diet high in certain fats (polyunsaturated fatty acids) can disrupt the tumors' ability to manage lipids, causing them to break down and die more easily, especially when combined with radiation therapy. This is important because it offers a new dietary approach that could make glioblastoma treatments more effective without requiring strict carbohydrate restrictions. Who this helps: This helps patients with glioblastoma and their doctors explore better treatment options.

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This study looked at a new treatment aimed at helping veterans with mild traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (mTBI/PTSD) improve their ability to recognize emotions in others. Eight veterans participated in eight sessions of training, which led to significant improvements in how they recognized emotions through facial expressions and spoken words. Specifically, their scores improved enough to indicate a strong positive effect, with the most notable improvement measured at a score of 0.01, indicating a large effect size, which means that the treatment made a real difference. Who this helps: This helps veterans struggling with mTBI/PTSD.

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This study introduced a new global framework called Learning Variability Network Exchange (LEVANTE) to better understand how children's learning varies across different situations and groups. Researchers aim to collect extensive data on children's literacy and numeracy skills, as well as their cognitive and social development, to create a large resource for ongoing research. By focusing on individual differences rather than average scores, this approach can lead to more tailored educational strategies. Who this helps: This benefits educators, researchers, and policymakers by providing insights to improve teaching methods for children.

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This study looked at how children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) pay attention to sounds compared to typically developing children. Researchers found that children with ASD had lower brain activity in the areas responsible for processing sound and showed different patterns in how brain regions communicated with each other while listening. This matters because it helps us understand the unique ways people with ASD experience auditory information, which can improve support and strategies for helping them with social interactions. Who this helps: This helps children with ASD and their families, as well as therapists and educators working with them.

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This study looked at how certain blood markers related to heart and inflammation can predict kidney disease progression in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, specifically focusing on those with and without diabetes. It found that, for individuals with diabetes, two specific markers (hs-TnT and sTNFR-1) were associated with a significant decline in kidney function over a three-year period. Understanding these associations is important because it helps identify at-risk patients and could lead to better monitoring and management of kidney health in this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes, especially within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

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This study looked at a large number of bacterial genomes to understand how a specific part of their immune system, known as type III CRISPR-Cas systems, controls signals from viruses. The researchers identified and confirmed that two enzymes, Csx16 and Csx20, actively help regulate these signals along with others already known. They found that most of these immune systems manage the levels of these signals to prevent harmful effects on the bacteria, which is important for their survival during viral infections. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on bacterial infections and treatments.

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In this study, researchers looked at how children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) pay attention to sounds compared to typically developing (TD) children. They found that the brain activity in children with ASD was lower when a sound changed location, showing less response in their auditory cortex compared to TD children. This is important because it helps explain why children with ASD may struggle with paying attention to sounds and understanding their surroundings. Who this helps: This information benefits children with ASD and their caregivers by improving understanding of their auditory processing challenges.

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This study looked at how safe and effective two newer blood thinners, apixaban and rivaroxaban, are compared to an older one, warfarin, in treating blood clots in the veins among patients in Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The researchers found that patients taking apixaban had half the risk of bleeding complications compared to those on warfarin (hazard ratio of 0.51), while rivaroxaban also had a lower risk of bleeding overall and a significantly reduced chance of blood clots returning (hazard ratio of 0.74). This matters because it shows that the newer medications are safer and just as effective as warfarin, which can help improve patient care. Who this helps: Patients at risk of blood clots and their doctors.

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This study looked at how hip fractures are treated in Zimbabwe and examined the costs and benefits of surgery compared to non-surgical care. Researchers found that patients who had surgery experienced better health outcomes, gaining about 0.17 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) at an additional cost of $1,676 per patient, resulting in a cost-effectiveness ratio of $9,647 per QALY gained. Improving surgical care and reducing delays could lead to better patient recovery and potentially lower healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from hip fractures, particularly older adults in Zimbabwe.

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This research studied the complete DNA sequence of the common adder snake, a species known for its widespread presence in Europe. The scientists successfully assembled two versions of its genome, the first one covering about 1,695 megabases and organized into 19 chromosome-like structures, meeting high standards for genetic mapping. This work is important because it helps improve our understanding of snake genetics and could aid conservation efforts and studies on biodiversity. Who this helps: This benefits scientists and conservationists working to protect snake populations and their habitats.

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This study examined the connection between depressive symptoms and the use of HIV prevention medication called PrEP among young women in Western Kenya. The researchers found that 14.3% of these young women reported moderate to severe depression, and only 19.3% were using PrEP, with 43% of them taking it regularly. These findings show that many young women face mental health challenges, which could affect their ability to access HIV prevention; thus, it's crucial to include mental health evaluations in HIV prevention programs. Who this helps: This helps young women at risk for HIV and healthcare providers working with them.

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This study looked at two methods, indocyanine green (ICG) and technetium-99m (99mTc), for identifying sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer patients during surgery. Both methods were effective, with ICG identifying 97.8% and 99mTc identifying 98.3% of the nodes, and there was no significant difference in the total number of nodes found. However, ICG may be a better option because it avoids radiation exposure and could be more cost-effective in the long run, despite requiring a larger initial investment. Who this helps: This helps breast cancer patients and surgeons by providing safer and potentially less costly options for node identification during surgery.

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This study explored how different video formats for virtual visits to doctors can help medical students learn about primary care. Students participated in four remote consultations using pre-recorded, locally recorded, and live video footage. They found that the locally recorded and live videos were most effective and engaging, with 100% of participants recognizing all formats as authentic, but local footage was preferred for its depth and relevance. Who this helps: This benefits medical students by enhancing their understanding of primary care.

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This study looked at how effective total hip replacements (THA) are for patients who suffered hip fractures from gunshot injuries. Researchers examined 14 male patients, averaging 32 years old, who underwent surgery between 2009 and 2022. They found that THA, performed either soon after the injury or after a failed earlier surgery, led to improvements in hip function; the average score for hip function went from 53.2 points before surgery to 85.5 points six months after surgery, showing significant recovery, while complications were relatively low. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with gunshot-related hip injuries.

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This study looked at how a strong medication called rifampin affects two hormones, segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, in a new contraceptive vaginal system. The researchers found that while rifampin did not affect segesterone acetate levels, it significantly decreased ethinyl estradiol levels by nearly 56% (from an area under the curve ratio of 0.44). Despite this decrease in ethinyl estradiol, the study concluded that the contraceptive remains effective, meaning women can use this contraceptive even if they take rifampin. Who this helps: This benefits women using the contraceptive who may also need rifampin for other health conditions.

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This study looked at a new protein called Crn4, which helps bacteria defend against viruses by interacting with a part of their immune system known as CRISPR. Researchers found that Crn4 can break down signaling molecules that help activate this immune response, which can weaken the bacteria’s ability to fight off infections. Understanding how Crn4 works is important because it sheds light on bacterial defenses and could lead to developments in biotechnology or medicine. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists studying bacterial immune systems and developing new treatments against infections.

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This study looked at how many hip fractures occur in The Gambia among adults and how these numbers compare to other African countries. It found that in The Gambia, there were 28.1 hip fractures per 100,000 men and 51.7 per 100,000 women aged 40 and older, with the total number of hip fractures expected to rise from 166 in 2024 to 621 by 2054. This is important because it highlights the need for healthcare systems to prepare for an increasing number of fractures as the population ages, particularly due to conditions like osteoporosis. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers in The Gambia and similar regions.

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This study looked at how silver nanoparticles (tiny particles of silver used in many commercial products) can harm the liver of rats and whether quercetin, a natural substance found in fruits and vegetables, can help protect against this damage. The researchers found that rats given silver nanoparticles experienced significant liver damage, shown by increased liver enzyme levels and signs of oxidative stress in the liver. However, when quercetin was added, the harmful effects were reduced, showing that quercetin can help improve liver health in this context. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who may be exposed to silver nanoparticles and could be at risk for liver damage.