DR. SIDNEY MARK FISHMAN, MD

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This study looked at how comfortable and willing hematologists and oncologists feel about treating adults with vascular anomalies (VAs), which are rare and often debilitating conditions. Out of 358 surveyed doctors, most felt unprepared to provide care: 61.2% had received no training on VAs since medical school, and 65.8% were very unlikely to start treating these patients. However, 69.9% believed that these specialists should care for people with VAs, highlighting a gap between the acknowledgment of their role and the actual willingness to take it on. Who this helps: This benefits patients with vascular anomalies who need more access to knowledgeable care.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a procedure called endoscopic transoral outlet reduction (TORe) is for patients who regained weight after a one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) surgery. Among 64 patients followed for at least a year, those who underwent TORe lost an average of 7% of their total body weight in the first 6 months and 8% by the end of a year, despite an average regain of 19% from their lowest weight post-surgery. This matters because it offers a solution for those struggling to maintain their weight loss after gastric bypass, helping them potentially lose weight again with a low rate of serious complications. Who this helps: Patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery and are struggling with weight regain.

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This study looked at how genetic testing for vascular anomalies (abnormal blood vessel conditions) is carried out at two medical centers. Out of 421 patients, 61.7% needed approval before their tests, and 84% got that approval, with 93% actually completing the tests. About 70% of those who completed the tests received significant results that can inform their treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with vascular anomalies and their families by improving access to important genetic testing.

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Researchers developed a new technique called Repair-Assisted Damage Detection - Optical Genome Mapping (RADD-OGM) to study DNA damage in cancer cells. They found that this method can accurately locate areas in the genome that are more prone to oxidative damage and can identify where cells are most actively repairing this damage. This is important because it helps understand how DNA repair works and can improve studies on how various drugs and radiation affect cell health. Who this helps: This benefits cancer researchers and doctors by providing better tools to understand and treat DNA damage in tumors.

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This study looked at a procedure called endoscopic jejunal flap suturing to treat stubborn ulcers that can occur after weight loss surgery. Out of 11 patients with these ulcers, 90.9% had a successful procedure, but only 45% showed healing of the ulcers after eight weeks, leading four patients to eventually need surgery. This matters because it highlights a potential treatment option for difficult ulcers after surgery, especially for those with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, though the results were less promising for a different type of surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from ulcers after weight loss surgery.

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This study looked at a protein complex called S100A8/S100A9 and its impact on how the body burns energy, particularly in fat tissue, to understand its role in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that mice lacking this protein complex gained less weight and had better insulin sensitivity when fed a high-fat diet compared to normal mice, showing that S100A8/S100A9 hinders the body's ability to use energy efficiently. This research is important because it highlights a potential target for therapies aimed at improving metabolism and boosting energy expenditure in overweight individuals. Who this helps: Patients struggling with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

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This study examines a condition called follicular occlusion tetrad, which involves four related skin issues caused by blocked hair follicles. The researchers reported a unique case of a 43-year-old woman who had experienced these four conditions for 36 years and noticed them worsening after using a weight loss drug called semaglutide. The findings highlight the need for more research into treatments for this condition, especially given its connection to obesity. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with chronic skin conditions related to follicular occlusion.

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This study looked at how certain MRI findings relate to symptoms of inflammatory back pain in adults suffering from non-specific chronic low back pain (nsCLBP). Researchers found that specific MRI changes, like endplate erosion and Modic changes type 1, were linked to symptoms such as morning stiffness and worsening pain with rest, with endplate erosion being over twice as likely in those with inflammatory symptoms (2.1 times more likely) and Modic type 1 changes being 2.2 times more likely. Understanding these links can help doctors better identify and treat patients whose back pain may have an inflammatory cause. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic low back pain, especially those experiencing inflammatory symptoms.

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This study looked at a new training session designed to teach medical students about the links between climate change and health. Out of 375 students, those who completed the assessment scored an average of 80% on a quiz after the session, and 82% reported learning new climate change strategies. The training session improved students' confidence in their ability to tackle climate-related health issues, with 89%-100% feeling prepared after participating. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and ultimately their future patients by equipping them with the knowledge to address climate-related health challenges.

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This study focused on the role of a protein called sortilin in liver cells during a type of liver injury known as cholestatic injury, which can lead to scarring (fibrosis). Researchers found that mice lacking sortilin had less cell growth and fewer signs of new duct formation in the liver after injury compared to normal mice. Specifically, the sortilin-deficient mice showed reduced fibrosis and abnormal duct formation, indicating that sortilin is crucial for these processes to occur. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver diseases, particularly those experiencing cholestatic injury.

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This study looked at the outcomes of older patients (65 and older) who underwent Revisional Bariatric Surgery (RBS) after having previous weight-loss surgeries. Out of 39 patients, 90% were followed up for nearly 5 years, showing an average weight loss of 20.3% and a significant reduction in other health problems. While complications occurred, they were manageable, with only 12.5% needing further surgery. Who this helps: This research benefits elderly patients seeking effective weight-loss solutions and their doctors in making informed treatment choices.

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This study investigated a new way to prevent autoimmune diabetes in mice by redirecting specific immune cells called CD4T cells to suppress harmful CD8T cells that attack insulin-producing cells. Researchers engineered these CD4T cells to better target the problem and found that when injected into young mice, they significantly reduced diabetes development and inflammation—about 50% of the mice treated did not develop diabetes compared to untreated mice. This discovery could lead to new therapies for people at risk of type 1 diabetes. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of type 1 diabetes.

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This study investigated the role of a hormone called GIP in reducing gut inflammation in mice. Researchers found that GIP helped to lessen inflammation caused by a chemotherapy drug, while removing the gene for the GIP receptor made the inflammation worse. These findings are important because they suggest that targeting GIP signaling could be a new way to treat gut inflammation, which could be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or obesity who often experience such issues. Who this helps: Patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity experiencing gut inflammation.

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This study focused on a genetic variant of the CD55 protein found in Bukharan Jews that can lead to serious health issues like gastrointestinal problems and blood clots. Researchers found that this variant is common in this population, with about 1 in 17 people being carriers, and can result in a wide range of symptoms from mild discomfort to severe illness. Recognizing this genetic condition early is important because there is an effective treatment available that can greatly improve patients’ lives. Who this helps: This helps patients with CD55 deficiency and their doctors by providing insight into genetic testing and treatment options.

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This study looked at a new treatment called Endoscopic Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) for people experiencing bile reflux symptoms after a specific type of weight-loss surgery known as One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB). Out of 12 patients who received TORe, 9 (75%) reported that their symptoms improved significantly, with their quality of life scores related to reflux dropping from an average of 33.7 to 16.1 in just six months. This matters because it offers a potential solution for patients suffering from bile reflux after surgery, where effective options were previously limited. Who this helps: This helps patients who have had OAGB and are struggling with bile reflux symptoms.

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This study looked at how nurses can better support family caregivers of patients experiencing pain, especially those from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. It found that caregivers often don't get the right information to help manage their loved ones' complex health needs. Providing clear resources and guidance from nurses can significantly improve caregivers’ ability to manage pain at home, ultimately enhancing the care they provide. Who this helps: This helps family caregivers and their loved ones coping with pain.

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This study looked at the challenges faced by young adult patients and their parents dealing with vascular malformations (VMs), which are rare medical conditions. The researchers interviewed 25 young adults and 34 parents, uncovering four main types of burdens: medical issues, logistical and financial difficulties, emotional stress, and social isolation. These findings highlight the need for healthcare providers to recognize and address these broader life challenges to improve support and relationships with patients and their families. Who this helps: This study benefits patients with vascular malformations and their caregivers.

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This research focuses on the important role family caregivers have in recognizing and reporting pain in older adults at home. It found that caregivers often lack the information needed to effectively manage their loved ones' health care, especially when it comes to pain management. By providing practical guidance and resources, such as articles and instructional videos, nurses can better support these caregivers, helping them feel more equipped to assist their family members. Who this helps: This benefits family caregivers of older adults dealing with pain.

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This study explored a new way to prevent type 1 diabetes in mice by using specially engineered B lymphocytes (a type of immune cell). The researchers found that these engineered B cells effectively inhibited harmful T cells responsible for attacking insulin-producing cells, protecting the mice from developing diabetes. Specifically, they showed that B cells modified with chimeric molecules reduced the harmful activity of immune cells and induced protective responses, preventing diabetes in these mice. Who this helps: This benefits autoimmune diabetes patients and researchers looking for new treatment options.

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This study looked at how considering the types of patients treated in the past affects the evaluation of success rates at fertility clinics based on public quality reports from 2011 to 2018. The researchers found that when clinics had higher success rates in the past two years, there were fewer patients with endometriosis and tubal issues but more patients over 35 years old. This matters because using different evaluation methods can lead to different conclusions about clinic performance, which can affect patient choices and healthcare policies. Who this helps: Patients seeking fertility treatments and healthcare policymakers.

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This study looked at how a drug called CF602 affects erectile dysfunction (ED) in diabetic rats. The researchers found that CF602 improved blood flow related to erections, leading to a better balance of blood pressure in the area, with a notable increase in the effectiveness of erections—specifically, a significant improvement in the measure of erectile function was observed with different doses of CF602. This matters because it shows potential for CF602 as a new treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction, especially those with diabetes. Who this helps: This helps patients with erectile dysfunction, particularly those with diabetes.

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The study focused on the challenges faced by family caregivers who are responsible for managing the complex health care needs of their loved ones, especially those in pain. It found that caregivers often lack the necessary information and support to effectively help their family members. By providing nurses with articles and videos aimed at improving communication and education, this project aims to empower caregivers and enhance the quality of care at home. Who this helps: This helps family caregivers and the patients they care for.

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This study looked at how well family caregivers understand and manage the care of older adults dealing with pain. Many caregivers say they lack the necessary information and tools to help their loved ones effectively, highlighting a significant need for better support. This matters because improving caregiver knowledge can lead to better pain management and quality of life for older adults. Who this helps: Family caregivers of older adults with pain.

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This study looked at changes in the supportive tissue around cells, known as the extracellular matrix, before any symptoms of inflammation appear, specifically in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Researchers found that unique changes in this tissue happen even before any signs of illness, which can be detected in patients; for example, they identified specific markers that could indicate disease onset. Understanding these early changes is important because it could help improve how doctors diagnose and treat these conditions before symptoms develop. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases and their doctors.

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This study looked at a procedure called endoscopic trans-oral outlet reduction (TORe) as a treatment for dumping syndrome, a common problem after weight loss surgery. The researchers followed 13 patients who had the procedure and found that it significantly improved their symptoms; 85% of them no longer had dumping syndrome after six months, and their symptoms score dropped from 19.4 to 5.2. This matters because TORe is a safe, effective option that can help patients avoid more complicated treatments and improve their quality of life. Who this helps: Patients struggling with dumping syndrome after bariatric surgery.

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This study examined mice that were genetically modified to lack a gene called CD24 to understand how it affects obesity and insulin sensitivity, particularly looking at differences between male and female mice. Researchers found that the knockout male mice were heavier and had larger fat cells and better insulin sensitivity than normal mice, with specific increases in a protein called PPARγ. These findings are significant because they hint at a potential link between obesity, diabetes, and cancer risk, especially as it relates to how CD24 influences metabolic processes. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying obesity and diabetes, as well as potential therapies for related conditions.

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This study looked at how a specific signaling pathway (GIPR) in immune cells affects metabolism and fat storage in obese mice. Researchers found that when GIPR was not functioning in immune cells, key immune cell types decreased, which disrupted the body’s ability to manage energy and inflammation related to obesity. Importantly, restoring certain immune responses helped to reverse these negative effects on metabolism. Who this helps: This research benefits patients struggling with obesity-related metabolic disorders.

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This study focused on how the antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone causes liver damage through stress responses in fat tissue. Researchers found that repeated use of amiodarone led to increased fat breakdown in fat tissue, which then contributed to harmful fatty acid buildup in the liver. Specifically, amiodarone increased the accumulation of a type of fat called palmitate in the liver and increased cell death there. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients using amiodarone, as it highlights the risks of liver damage and may lead to better monitoring and treatment strategies.

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This study looked at a common problem after weight loss surgery known as sleeve stenosis, which can lead to serious health issues. Researchers treated 67 patients using a method called endoscopic pneumatic dilation, which was successful in 76.1% of the cases. While there was a small risk of complications, like a 1.5% chance of needing emergency surgery, the treatment proved to be safe and effective with only a slight weight gain of 3 kg afterward. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone sleeve gastrectomy and experience sleeve stenosis.

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This study looked at how effective various endoscopic treatments are for fixing problems that can occur after a specific type of weight-loss surgery called laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass. They found that among nine patients with leaks, more than half (56%) completely recovered, while only 20% of those with staple-line leaks did so. For eight patients with strictures, all but one were successfully treated with dilation, while one needed a more complicated surgery after unsuccessful dilation attempts. This research is important because it helps show that endoscopic treatments can effectively address complications after this type of surgery, especially for certain types of leaks. Who this helps: This benefits patients who undergo laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass and may face complications after the surgery.

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Researchers studied how a 6-minute video about hospice care compared to a spoken description affects patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers. They found that after watching the video, caregivers were more likely to prefer hospice for their loved ones (94.4% vs 65.4%), and patients who watched the video were more informed about hospice, showing a significant increase in knowledge and a greater tendency to use hospice services (85.2% vs 63.6%). This matters because improving understanding of hospice can lead to better usage of these services, which provide crucial support at the end of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how phone support from health educators can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition and reduce stress. Researchers worked with 812 adults in New York City who were struggling to control their diabetes despite taking medication. They found that those who received phone calls showed improvements in blood sugar levels (A1C) and emotional well-being compared to those who only received standard care. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 2 diabetes, especially those from ethnic minority and low-income backgrounds.

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This research studied how a hormone called GIP, which is affected by diet, interacts with immune cells to influence body weight and inflammation. The researchers found that mice lacking GIP receptors in their immune cells gained more weight and developed insulin resistance when fed a high-fat diet. Specifically, these mice had higher levels of a protein (S100A8) linked to inflammation, which suggests that GIP helps regulate both fat storage and immune responses. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with obesity and related metabolic diseases.

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This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of a drug called CT-P13, a biosimilar to the original infliximab, in treating patients with active Crohn's disease. Researchers found that 69.4% of patients taking CT-P13 and 74.3% of those taking infliximab experienced significant improvement in their symptoms after 6 weeks, showing that CT-P13 works just as well as the original drug. This is important because it opens up a potentially cheaper option for treating Crohn's disease without sacrificing effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Crohn's disease who need effective treatment options.

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This study focused on understanding ALECT2 amyloidosis, a disease caused by a protein called LECT2 that can form harmful structures in the body. Researchers found specific areas of the LECT2 protein that are critical for forming these structures, which can lead to disease. Their findings could help develop new treatments to prevent or reduce amyloid formation in ALECT2 patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with ALECT2 amyloidosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at how mood and quality of life (QOL) are affected in patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after receiving a stem cell transplant. Among 52 patients, significant levels of depression were reported by 32.7% at the start, which increased to 37.8% after six months, while anxiety levels showed a similar trend. The findings indicate that those who cope negatively or have worse physical health tend to experience lower quality of life and mood, highlighting the need for targeted support. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic GVHD, their families, and healthcare providers working to improve patient care.

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This study looked at how reducing the activity of a protein called TMPRSS6 can help treat anemia and excess iron in mice with a blood disorder called β-thalassemia intermedia, especially those that have had their spleens removed (splenectomy). Researchers found that using a special treatment targeted at TMPRSS6 significantly increased levels of a hormone called hepcidin, which helps control iron in the body. As a result, the treated mice showed less anemia and lower iron levels in their blood and tissues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with β-thalassemia intermedia, particularly those who have undergone splenectomy.

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This study examined how a specific system behaves both in classical physics and quantum physics under certain conditions. Researchers found that when starting near a chaotic area, the system showed a consistent pattern of behavior over time, with the classical correlation lasting longer than the quantum correlation. Understanding these patterns is important because they can help researchers learn more about the differences in behavior between classical and quantum systems. Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers working in quantum mechanics.

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This study looked at how a special device called the duodenal-jejunal bypass liner (DJBL) can help diabetic patients lose weight and improve blood sugar control. After one year of using the device, patients lost an average of 15% of their body weight, and their blood sugar levels showed significant improvement, particularly among those who were more obese. However, some patients had side effects, with 23.5% experiencing complications, so finding ways to reduce these risks is important. Who this helps: This helps diabetic patients who are struggling with weight management and blood sugar control.

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This study examined how early integrated palliative care affects the caregivers of patients with advanced lung and gastrointestinal cancers. It found that caregivers who received this type of care experienced less overall distress and depression, with a notable improvement reflected by a decrease in total distress scores by about 1.45 points on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. This matters because it highlights that when patients get palliative care early, their caregivers also benefit from reduced emotional strain, improving their well-being during a difficult time. Who this helps: Caregivers of patients with advanced lung and gastrointestinal cancers.

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Researchers studied how the antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone affects the liver, specifically focusing on a type of stress inside cells called endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which can lead to fat buildup in the liver. They found that amiodarone caused significant liver damage and fat accumulation in normal mice, while mice genetically modified to reduce ER stress were protected from these effects. This is important because it suggests that targeting ER stress could be a potential therapy to prevent liver damage in patients taking amiodarone. Who this helps: This research helps patients who need amiodarone for heart conditions, especially those at risk of liver damage.

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Researchers studied how particles move in a specific type of chaotic system and found that the likelihood of a particle surviving in certain areas decreases following a predictable pattern. Specifically, they discovered that the survival probability drops off at a rate described by a number called the exponent, which was measured at 1.57. This finding helps confirm that a particular mathematical model effectively describes how transport happens in these complex systems. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working on chaotic systems and particle transport.