DR. STEPHEN J. LEWIS, M.D.

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This study focused on improving how cancer-related gene changes (called somatic variants) are interpreted in the UK to ensure patients receive accurate diagnoses and treatment. The UK Somatic Variant Interpretation Group (SVIG-UK) created a new, standardized approach after reviewing current methods, finding key differences in how existing guidelines were applied. This new framework promises consistency and thoroughness when identifying the potential harm of these gene changes, which is crucial for effective cancer treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing clearer guidance for interpreting cancer-related gene changes.

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This study looked at how well recent graduates in radiography and nuclear medicine understand infection prevention when using medications and contrast agents in medical imaging. Out of 45 graduates surveyed, 87% scored 9 or above out of 10 on their knowledge of infection control, but many reported missing practical experience and better guidance during their training, highlighting a gap in their education. Improving training to include more hands-on experience and regular updates is crucial to help reduce infection risks for both patients and healthcare workers. Who this helps: This helps patients and medical imaging professionals by ensuring safer practices in medical imaging settings.

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This study developed a new diagnostic tool called SWIFT-FISH that can quickly identify bacteria and test how they respond to antibiotics in about five minutes. The method achieved nearly 99% accuracy in identifying six different bacterial species and allowed for antibiotic testing results to be available within an hour. This rapid approach is important because it helps doctors treat infections more effectively and manage antibiotic use, which can reduce the risks of antibiotic resistance. Who this helps: This benefits patients with infections, doctors, and healthcare providers dealing with antibiotic treatments.

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This study looked at how women with metastatic breast cancer manage their time when facing an incurable diagnosis. Researchers interviewed these women and identified several key themes: they felt pressure to spend their time wisely, often felt disconnected from others, worked hard to extend their lives through treatment, and faced challenges in planning for the future due to uncertainty. The findings highlight that while they strive for a good quality of life, the emotional and financial burdens can be significant, especially for those with fewer resources. Who this helps: This helps patients with metastatic breast cancer and their families, as well as healthcare professionals.

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This study looked at how a diabetes medication called glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1As) affects recovery after spinal surgery in adults with spinal deformities. Researchers found that patients who took GLP-1As had significantly lower rates of complications like pseudoarthrosis (a failed bone healing), infections, and even readmissions to the hospital after surgery—specifically, their odds of these issues were reduced by notable percentages over one and two years. This is important because it suggests that using GLP-1As could help improve surgical outcomes and enhance recovery for patients undergoing spinal deformity corrections. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing spinal surgery and their doctors by providing a potential new treatment option to improve recovery.

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This study looked at how digital health tools can improve cancer care, focusing on the importance of human-centered approaches that respect the needs and relationships of patients. The authors argue that to truly benefit patients, these tools should be designed with input from patients and communities, and they provide examples from Brazil, India, and the U.S. to show how this can be done effectively. This matters because it can lead to better care that values individual experiences and improves outcomes for cancer patients. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients and their caregivers.

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This study looked at whether a special type of MRI, called multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), can help predict the risk of kidney disease in patients who are having surgery to remove kidney tumors. Out of 43 patients, 67% had normal kidney function before surgery, but 37% of those developed severe kidney disease (stage 3 chronic kidney disease) within a year after surgery. The findings show that mpMRI can be an effective tool for doctors to identify patients at higher risk of kidney problems after surgery, helping to improve care and outcomes. Who this helps: Patients undergoing kidney surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked into the best ways to provide care to pregnant women who use drugs and their infants, as these women often face significant health and social challenges. The researchers found that integrated services—where health and social care work closely together—can reduce substance use during pregnancy and improved access to care is crucial, as many women reported feeling stigmatized and anxious about seeking help. Their recommendations emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex needs of these women and their children, highlighting eight key strategies for improvement. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women who use drugs and their infants by providing better support systems and care pathways.

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This study looked at how to get patients and their families more involved in their electronic medical records (EMRs) to improve their healthcare experience. Researchers created two helpful tools: a video and an infographic, which explain what EMRs are and how patients can use them during their care. Out of 69 participants, both tools were found to be useful and easy to understand, which could lead to better and safer care, especially for those at higher risk of not receiving good quality healthcare. Who this helps: Patients and their families accessing hospital care.

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This study looked at how much radiation exposure occurs outside the targeted area during cancer treatment using two different devices called collimators in a linear accelerator. They found that the Agility collimator delivered higher peripheral doses of radiation compared to the Apex collimator. Specifically, at a depth of 10 cm and 1 cm from the edge of the treated area, the doses were 87.9% for Apex and 65.9% for Agility, meaning Apex is safer for limiting unnecessary radiation exposure. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving radiotherapy by reducing their risk of side effects from excess radiation.

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This study looked at whether exercise could help people with cystic fibrosis clear mucus from their lungs instead of traditional chest physiotherapy, which many find burdensome. Researchers interviewed 32 individuals, including cystic fibrosis patients and healthcare professionals, and found that while there were some challenges in joining the trial, the exercise method was generally accepted. Participants wanted better clinical evidence before fully switching away from chest physiotherapy. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cystic fibrosis and their caregivers.

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This research studied the role of circulating HPV DNA (HPV cfDNA) in diagnosing and predicting outcomes for cervical cancer. The findings showed that HPV cfDNA is very specific for detecting cervical cancer, with a specificity of 96%, but a sensitivity of only 47%. Additionally, if HPV cfDNA is still positive three months after treatment, patients are at a much higher risk of cancer progression, with a risk increase of 8.5 times. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with cervical cancer and their doctors by improving early detection and treatment monitoring.

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This study compared the quality of two imaging tests, gadoxetate-enhanced MRI and ultrasound (US), for screening liver cancer in people with cirrhosis. Out of 245 participants, 80.4% had high-quality MRI results, while only 24.2% achieved similar results with ultrasound. The findings are important because they show that MRI provides clearer images than ultrasound, especially for those with obesity or more severe liver disease, which can help doctors make better decisions. Who this helps: This study helps patients with cirrhosis who need routine screenings for liver cancer.

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This study focused on how a new imaging technique, called high-resolution vessel wall imaging, can help doctors tell apart two causes of brain strokes: branch atheromatous disease (BAD) and small vessel ischemic disease (SVID). Out of 23 patients with acute strokes, the imaging showed that 5 had signs of BAD, which is linked to worse health outcomes, while others showed signs of SVID. Knowing which type of stroke a patient has is important because it can affect their treatment and management, as BAD may need more aggressive prevention measures. Who this helps: Patients who have had strokes, specifically those diagnosed with BAD or SVID.

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This study looked at how well different models can predict survival rates for patients with specific types of heart pumps called left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). The researchers found that 20.5% of patients with fully magnetic LVADs died within three years of getting the device. They discovered that a survival model focusing only on patients with these fully magnetic devices performed better than models that included older devices, especially during the first year after surgery. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients by providing better survival predictions for those receiving fully magnetic LVADs.

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This study looked at how certain characteristics influence whether college students seek mental health referrals through an online screening program. The research found that students were more likely to seek help if they had higher depression scores, recent self-harm, or were not currently in therapy, with a notable increase in referral-seeking for those aged 25 and older. However, students identifying as genderqueer, Hispanic/Latin(x), or from other racial and ethnic backgrounds were less likely to seek referrals, indicating a need for improvements in outreach and support for these groups. Who this helps: This helps college students who may be struggling with mental health issues and need support.

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This study looked at how second-year medical imaging and radiation sciences students felt about a new assessment where they created a research paper with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Out of 145 students, 115 responded, showing a 79.3% participation rate. They found the assessment both challenging and exciting, leading to a better understanding of how AI can be used in research while also recognizing its ethical implications. Who this helps: This benefits students by preparing them for the future use of AI in their fields.

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This study looked at how low to moderate alcohol exposure during pregnancy affects the brain structure and attention skills of children aged 6-7 years. The researchers found that while children with no alcohol exposure generally had better attention and less hyperactivity, those exposed to alcohol in the first trimester showed a link between certain brain structures and attention problems—specifically, higher fiber density in a part of the brain was linked to more inattention. These results highlight the impact of even low levels of alcohol during pregnancy on children's brain development and their ability to focus. Who this helps: This helps parents and healthcare providers understand the potential effects of alcohol exposure during pregnancy on children's cognitive development.

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This study looked at a new type of breast imaging called phase-contrast computed tomography (PB-CT) and compared its effectiveness to the standard digital mammography (DM) for detecting breast cancer in 30 patients. The results showed that PB-CT had a diagnostic accuracy rating of 0.924, slightly better than DM's 0.906, although this difference wasn't statistically significant. This research is important because it suggests that PB-CT might offer a more comfortable, radiation-efficient way to view breast tissue in 3D, which could lead to better options for breast cancer screening. Who this helps: Patients undergoing breast cancer screening.

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This study looked at how well different types of trees in the Amazon rainforest can survive drought by resisting embolism, which is when air bubbles disrupt their water transport system. Researchers found that certain tree families, especially Fabaceae, are better at resisting this problem. They discovered that areas with more Fabaceae trees, like parts of Brazil and the Guiana Shield, are more resilient to drought, while tree communities in the Western Amazon are more at risk. Who this helps: This research helps conservationists and forest managers plan better for the impacts of climate change on Amazonian ecosystems.

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This research looked at how psychedelic therapy can help people with serious illnesses who suffer from spiritual and emotional pain, like depression and anxiety. The study reviewed 286 articles to find effective ways to measure spiritual wellbeing, finally recommending a specific tool called the NIH-HEALS for better evaluating these experiences in patients. This matters because it supports the need for spiritual care in therapy, which can lead to deeper healing for those facing life-threatening conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with serious illnesses and their healthcare providers.

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This study looks at how the vitamins and minerals we eat—called micronutrients—can influence our food choices. Researchers believe that when our bodies need certain micronutrients, we might develop a craving for foods that are rich in those nutrients, which could help prevent malnutrition. However, they also warn that taking supplements might make people less inclined to eat healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, which provide other important health benefits. Who this helps: This research benefits patients looking to improve their nutrition and healthcare providers advising on dietary choices.

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This study looks at how providing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in community settings can help people newly diagnosed with HIV in refugee camps in Uganda. Researchers compared two groups: one that received community-based ART right away and another that received standard care at clinics. They plan to enroll over 3,100 participants and measure how many are successfully managing their HIV after one year; this approach could potentially help increase the number of individuals who stay on treatment and achieve viral suppression. Who this helps: This benefits patients newly diagnosed with HIV, particularly in refugee settlements.

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This study looked at how effective a new type of medication called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are for weight loss in different groups of people based on factors like age, sex, race, and body weight. The researchers found that women lost an average of 10.9% of their body weight, while men lost 6.8%, but the drugs worked similarly well across other groups, including age, race, and ethnicity. This is important because it helps doctors understand who may benefit more from these medications, potentially improving weight loss treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking effective weight loss treatments, especially women.

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This study used a method called Think-Aloud to understand how radiographers make decisions about the quality of mammogram images. The researchers found that both in-the-moment comments and reflections after the fact helped reveal the complex thought processes radiographers use when assessing image quality. This matters because it helps improve training and decision-making strategies for radiographers, ultimately leading to better patient care in mammography. Who this helps: Patients undergoing mammograms and the radiographers who perform them.

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This study looked at which groups of college students were more likely to use an online mental health screening tool. Researchers found that female students were about 87% more likely to participate than male students, and students showing moderate signs of depression were nearly six times more likely to use the tool. This is important because it highlights that while some students are seeking help, there is a need to engage more male students in mental health resources. Who this helps: This benefits college students by improving access to mental health support.

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The YESS study examined whether providing personalized stop-smoking support alongside lung cancer screening would help people quit smoking. Among the 1,003 participants, 33.6% of those receiving personalized support were still abstinent from smoking after three months, compared to 30.0% of those getting standard support, but the difference was not large enough to confirm that the personalized support was significantly more effective. This research highlights the importance of smoking cessation support for individuals undergoing lung cancer screening, as quitting smoking can improve lung health. Who this helps: This benefits lung cancer screening patients who smoke.

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This study looked at how reliably MRI-based measurements can detect features in prostate cancer in men who are being monitored rather than treated. Researchers examined data from 47 men and found that the measurements taken from certain types of MRI scans (specifically T2-weighted imaging) were consistent 78% of the time when repeated on the same machine, but less consistent on different machines or with different observers. This is important because reliable measurements can lead to better tracking of prostate cancer and inform treatment decisions. Who this helps: This study benefits doctors and patients by improving the accuracy of prostate cancer monitoring.

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Cochrane Oral Health (COH) has been working for 30 years to improve global oral health by collecting and sharing reliable evidence. They have produced high-quality reviews that support healthcare practices, influencing treatment guidelines in areas like fluoride use and infection control during COVID-19. This work is important because it helps ensure that health decisions are based on solid evidence, ultimately leading to better care for patients around the world. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable information for oral health decisions.

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This study looked at a 50-year-old man who experienced a serious twisted bowel condition, known as cecal volvulus, which caused a blockage. The problem was linked to two issues he had since birth: chronic malrotation of his intestines and Ladd bands, which are abnormal tissue connections. After surgery to fix the twisting, he recovered and went home, highlighting how complex bowel problems can be hard to diagnose and treat. Who this helps: This helps patients with bowel obstructions and doctors who treat gastrointestinal issues.

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This study looked at how universities teach infection prevention and control (IPC) in medical imaging programs, like those for CT and nuclear medicine. Researchers surveyed program directors from various countries and found that most programs include hands-on learning and use of technology, but they face challenges like limited resources and access to clinical settings. Strengthening IPC education is vital to keep patients and healthcare workers safe, and better partnerships between universities and hospitals can improve training outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare professionals involved in medical imaging.

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This study looked at new types of membranes for treating pelvic organ prolapse, focusing on how their shape and material affect their performance under strain. Researchers found that membranes with square pores were the most stable and least likely to wrinkle, while those with diamond-shaped pores experienced the most stretching and loss of porosity under tension. These results are important because a better membrane design could reduce complications like pain and mesh exposure during repairs. Who this helps: This helps patients who undergo pelvic organ prolapse repairs.

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This study looked at a treatment called Lattice Radiotherapy (LRT) for a 30-year-old woman with a rare and aggressive cancer called adrenocortical carcinoma that had spread to her liver and lungs. After undergoing LRT, the patient received a targeted dose of radiation, resulting in significant control of her pain and a noticeable decrease in the size of her tumor over three months, with no severe side effects. This is important because it shows that LRT can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with large, difficult-to-treat tumors. Who this helps: Patients suffering from advanced cancers with large tumors.

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This study looked at understanding how well radiation therapy staff in Australia know about and practice infection control to protect cancer patients, especially those with weakened immune systems. Out of 58 staff surveyed, most had strong knowledge and positive attitudes about infection control, but there were still gaps in how consistently they applied these practices. Effective communication was identified as a major challenge in following proper infection control methods. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with compromised immune systems, by ensuring better infection control in radiation therapy.

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This study looked at how temperature changes affect the growth of wild vertebrate populations around the world. It found that animals tend to breed and grow earlier in warmer years, which is good for their population growth; however, this effect is weaker in warmer areas where temperature directly harms population sizes instead. Understanding these patterns is crucial for managing wildlife in a changing climate. Who this helps: This information benefits wildlife conservationists and ecologists working to protect animal populations.

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This study explored how variations in grid size and statistical uncertainty affect the radiation dose delivered to the skin during cancer treatment, using two different delivery techniques and immobilization devices. Researchers found that as the grid size increased from 1 mm to 8 mm and statistical uncertainty decreased from 5% to 1%, the radiation dose at a depth of 1-5mm decreased. For example, using the vac-lock device led to the highest skin doses in both treatment methods, showing that the way treatment is planned significantly impacts patient safety and treatment effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving radiation therapy by ensuring safer and more effective treatment planning.

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This study looked at the risk of suicide after people harmed themselves, using data from health records in England from 2001 to 2019, involving nearly 600,000 individuals. It found that the risk of suicide was significantly higher for those who had self-harmed, especially in the first month afterward, with the odds reaching as high as 458 times greater for those in secondary care. Women and older individuals were more at risk compared to other groups, highlighting the need for better support and monitoring for these vulnerable populations. Who this helps: This research helps patients who have harmed themselves, as well as doctors and healthcare providers aiming to prevent suicide.

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This study looked at whether a type of MRI called multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) can help identify the characteristics of kidney tumors before surgery. Researchers found that mpMRI effectively distinguished between types of tumors, identifying 22 clear cell tumors, 9 non-clear cell tumors, and 9 benign tumors among a total of 40 analyzed. Importantly, the imaging techniques correlated with specific immune markers in the tumors, indicating mpMRI can provide valuable information for personalized treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits patients with kidney tumors by providing doctors with better tools for treatment planning.

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This study looked at how children diagnosed before birth with a genetic change called a copy-number variant of uncertain significance (VUS) develop compared to those who don’t have this variant. Researchers found that, on average, 6-year-old children with a VUS had similar cognitive, emotional, and health outcomes as those without a VUS, and many variants were later found to be harmless. This is important because it helps doctors and families understand that having a prenatal VUS may not affect a child's development or quality of life. Who this helps: This helps parents and doctors by providing clearer information on prenatal genetic testing results.

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This study looks at how effective and cost-efficient surgical treatment with high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is compared to non-surgical treatment for younger patients (under 60 years) with knee osteoarthritis. The researchers will enroll 224 patients to see if surgery can relieve knee pain and improve function better than personalized exercise therapy over a two-year period, measuring outcomes like pain scores and quality of life. This research matters because it will help determine the best treatment approach for patients, potentially saving them from needing more invasive surgeries later. Who this helps: Patients under 60 years old with knee osteoarthritis.

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This study explored what makes it easier or harder for people with arthritis to practice yoga. The researchers looked at nine articles and found that while there are some challenges, such as accessibility and motivation, there are more positive factors—like the benefits to physical and mental health—that encourage yoga practice. Specifically, qualities like a supportive environment and the perceived impacts on overall well-being play a significant role in whether individuals engage in yoga. This is important because promoting yoga could enhance treatment options for those living with arthritis. Who this helps: Patients with arthritis seeking alternative treatment options.

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This study investigated how well two advanced imaging techniques (2D and 3D fMRI) can capture the functional connections of different parts of the amygdala, a brain region important in mood disorders like depression. The researchers found that the 3D technique was better at showing connections between amygdala subregions and other brain areas, particularly connections related to the brainstem and hippocampus, while the 2D method showed better connections to certain cortical regions. This matters because understanding the specific connectivity patterns within the amygdala can lead to better insights into its role in disorders and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with mood disorders and the doctors treating them.

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This study looks at a middle-aged woman who developed heart problems (known as tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy) because she was taking too much of a thyroid medication. She had symptoms of heart failure, and tests showed her heart was severely weakened with an ejection fraction of less than 30%. After receiving treatment, her heart function and thyroid levels began to improve. Who this helps: This information helps doctors understand the risks of thyroid medication and how it can affect heart health.

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This study looked at how preserving certain parts of the parotid glands during radiation treatment affects dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients with head and neck cancer, particularly those who use tobacco. Researchers found that 62.7% of patients had some sparing of the parotid gland, and those who had it had lower rates of severe dry mouth compared to those who did not, with a significant difference of p = 0.038. The findings highlight the importance of sparing the glands to improve patients' quality of life after treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with head and neck cancer, especially those who use tobacco.

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This study looked at a way to improve discussions between patients with osteoporosis and their doctors about starting treatment for the condition. The researchers created a program called iFraP, which includes a computer tool and training for doctors to help guide these conversations. They plan to test this program with patients in four clinics in England and aim to find out if it leads to more people starting osteoporosis medication and how well it works in different settings. Who this helps: This helps patients with osteoporosis by ensuring they receive better support and guidance when making treatment decisions.