STEVE E. JORDAN, MD

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This study looked at how different fungicide treatments can help manage a potato disease called silver scurf, which affects potato quality and yield. Researchers found that treating the seeds before planting and applying fungicides during the growing season reduced the severity of silver scurf and improved marketable potato yield in most years, with seed treatment alone cutting disease severity after 90 days of storage by up to 50% in some cases. This is important because it gives potato growers effective options to manage this disease and protect their harvests. Who this helps: This helps potato farmers and growers looking to improve their crop quality.

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This research studied how tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) from donor organs affect the immune response in transplant patients. They found that when complement proteins in the body interact with these EVs, it makes it easier for immune cells (dendritic cells) to recognize the donor's cell markers, leading to stronger immune responses against the donor's tissue. Specifically, this process increases the likelihood of graft rejection, but can be lessened with drugs that inhibit complement activation. Who this helps: This benefits transplant patients and doctors managing organ rejection risks.

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This study looked at four cases of melioidosis, a dangerous infection caused by a bacterium found in tropical regions, in patients who had recently traveled to those areas. The patients showed various symptoms like fever, night sweats, and organ abscesses, highlighting how the infection can affect people differently. Recognizing this illness in returning travelers is crucial for timely treatment, which requires longer courses of antibiotics to be effective. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers dealing with patients who have traveled to tropical areas.

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This study investigated two types of advanced MRI techniques, CMP MRS and SMP MRS, to measure properties of the cervix in 13 women, including 3 with cancer. Both methods estimated similar T1 values (around 1568 ms for CMP MRS and 1571 ms for SMP MRS) but showed a significant difference in T2 values, with CMP MRS showing 39.9 ms and SMP MRS showing 45.6 ms. These findings indicate that CMP MRS may be more reliable for certain measurements, which is important for accurately assessing cervical health. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers who work with cervical cancer patients and women's health in general.

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This study focused on how often new cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD) occur in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and identified factors that increase the risk of developing this condition. Researchers found that among 5,331 patients with SSc who initially showed no signs of ILD, about 3.83 new cases appeared for every 100 patients each year, with new cases still emerging up to ten years later. This matters because even though the risk of worsening ILD is lower for those who develop it later, they still face nearly double the chance of dying compared to those without ILD. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with systemic sclerosis and their doctors, especially those with higher risk factors for developing ILD.

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This study looked at how Medicaid patients with diabetes and high blood pressure feel about using a remote monitoring program that helps them manage their condition. Researchers talked to 17 patients and found that most had a positive experience, saying that the program made it easier for them to eat healthier and check their blood sugar and blood pressure regularly. This matters because it shows that remote monitoring can be a helpful tool for improving the health of patients with these chronic conditions. Who this helps: This helps Medicaid patients managing diabetes and hypertension.

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This study focused on identifying new types of bacteria found in unhealthy onion bulbs collected in the USA between 2013 and 2016. Researchers discovered two new species of bacteria, named sp. nov. and sp. nov., which were notably different from other known species based on specific genetic tests. These findings are important because understanding these bacteria can help in developing better management practices for onion crops, potentially reducing losses due to disease. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural researchers.

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This study examined how practical it is to test a system called the ADRe Profile, which helps identify and manage harmful effects of medications in older patients (over 64) who take multiple long-term drugs. The research involved two general practices in South-West Wales and successfully involved 20 patients, who reported 289 health issues related to their medications, many of which were not previously documented. Although clinicians were hesitant to participate, the high patient retention and completion rates suggest that this system could significantly enhance the safety and well-being of older patients taking multiple medications. Who this helps: This helps older patients taking several medications and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a computer tool designed to help doctors in primary care detect pancreatic cancer early by identifying symptoms like unintended weight loss and new diabetes. It found that 11 general practitioners (GPs) found the tool easy to use and helpful for considering tests for patients who might be at risk, but they were also worried about causing unnecessary anxiety and costs for patients. Better evidence is needed to support the tool's use before it can be fully adopted in practices. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by improving early detection of pancreatic cancer.

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This study looked at children with biliary atresia, a serious liver condition, by analyzing data from 171 children born in Europe between 1995 and 2014. It found that 12.3% of these infants died within their first year, and 18.5% did not survive past age five. Additionally, by age five, 37% required a liver transplant, typically around 10 months old, emphasizing the severe health challenges these children face and the need for more research to prevent this condition from occurring. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and healthcare providers understand the risks for babies born with biliary atresia and improve care and prevention strategies.

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This study examined a case of a healthy traveler from Togo who became severely ill with dengue fever, leading to serious liver problems. Despite receiving intensive care and being placed on a waiting list for a liver transplant, the patient did not survive. This case shows the significant dangers of dengue fever, especially for travelers returning from affected regions. Who this helps: This information is vital for travelers, healthcare providers, and public health officials.

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This study looked at temperature changes in 2,406 lakes across South America from 1981 to 2099. It found that 97% of these lakes have warmed significantly, with a temperature increase of about 0.11 degrees Celsius each decade. This rising temperature not only affects lake ecosystems but also leads to more frequent and intense heatwaves. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists, ecologists, and conservationists working to protect freshwater ecosystems.

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This study focused on improving drugs that target the dopamine D4 receptor, which plays a crucial role in areas like decision-making and memory. Researchers replaced unstable amide linkers in these drugs with a more stable 1,2,3-triazole linker, leading to compounds that maintained strong receptor binding but showed some reduced activity. The new compounds demonstrated greater stability in the body, especially in animal tests, with some showing promising results like longer-lasting effects in the bloodstream. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying the dopamine system and developing new treatments for cognitive disorders.

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This study looked at Enterobacter species, which can cause infections in humans and also affect plants in various ways. Researchers found that while some strains harm plants by causing diseases, others actually help plants grow and protect them from pathogens, without clear differences in their genetic makeup between harmful and helpful strains. Understanding these interactions is important because it helps us manage agricultural diseases and assess potential health risks, especially as climate change may worsen these issues. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study looked at urinary symptoms in transgender men seeking gender-affirming orchiectomy, analyzing responses from 26 patients who completed a questionnaire about their urinary function. The results showed that while most patients reported mild urinary symptoms (average score of 4 out of 30), those with a history of anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder felt more bothered by their symptoms than those without such conditions. This matters because it highlights the importance of considering mental health when addressing urinary symptoms in this patient group. Who this helps: This helps transgender men and their healthcare providers understand the interplay between mental health and urinary symptoms.

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This study looked at the types of medications used by pregnant women who had COVID-19 but were not hospitalized, focusing on data from Europe and North America between January 2020 and December 2022. Researchers found that, after being diagnosed with COVID-19, the use of antibacterial medications in the third trimester increased from 3.9% to 6.8%. It also showed that pregnant women with COVID-19 were more likely to receive certain medications, like antithrombotics, compared to those without COVID-19, indicating a need for careful management of their health. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with COVID-19 by informing their treatment options and guiding healthcare providers in managing their care.

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This study looked at the risk of epilepsy in children with serious birth defects (congenital anomalies) and found that they are much more likely to be prescribed antiseizure medications than children without these conditions. Specifically, by age 5, about 18 out of every 1,000 children with congenital anomalies were prescribed these medications, compared to only 2 out of 1,000 in children without anomalies. Understanding this risk is important because it can help doctors monitor and treat high-risk children more effectively, potentially leading to better health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps doctors and families of children with congenital anomalies.

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This study looked at how much extra money hospitals and universities need to pay to support surgeon-scientists who are funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Over the years, the financial gap created by the NIH salary cap has grown significantly; for example, the additional costs for funding a surgeon investigator jumped from $18,360 to $68,660 per year, while the costs for postdoctoral fellows rose from $22,932 to $31,608 annually. This matters because it highlights a growing financial burden on institutions, making it harder to recruit and train these crucial medical professionals, and projects that costs could increase by another 47% by 2035. Who this helps: This benefits medical institutions and the surgical patients who rely on the expertise of trained surgeon-scientists.

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This study explored how a specific enzyme called RufO helps produce a special compound known as rufomycin, which is important for treating tuberculosis. The researchers found that RufO binds to a short peptide very effectively, with a measure called the dissociation constant at 0.78 micromolar, and that the process involves unique changes in the enzyme’s structure when it interacts with the peptide. This understanding of how RufO works is important because it can lead to more effective uses of this enzyme in developing new treatments. Who this helps: Patients in need of new tuberculosis treatments.

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This study looked at how certain proteins, called accessory effector proteins, impact the outcomes of infections caused by a specific bacteria in mice. The researchers found that a strain of bacteria missing these 12 accessory effectors still caused infection but led to less damage and inflammation in resistant mice, showing that these effectors play a significant role in how the body responds to the infection despite not affecting how well the bacteria can infect. Understanding these interactions is important for developing new treatments for bacterial infections. Who this helps: This research benefits patients by paving the way for more targeted therapies against bacterial infections.

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This study looked at how psychotherapists decide which patients can take part in blended care, which combines traditional therapy with digital tools. Researchers interviewed 14 therapists and found that they do not use strict criteria to select patients; instead, they consider factors like technical ability and motivation to engage with the digital aspects of therapy. The findings highlight the importance of patient motivation, as therapists see it as a key element for successful implementation of blended care. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking more flexible therapy options and therapists looking to improve treatment integration.

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This study looked at the long-term use of cabotegravir/rilpivirine (LA-CAB/RPV), a medication for people living with HIV, over 44 months. Researchers found that 97% of the participants maintained low levels of the virus (below 50 copies/mL), indicating the treatment was effective, but 14% of them switched back to daily pills. While most people were generally able to get their injections on time, there were some delays, and many experienced mild side effects. Who this helps: This information benefits patients living with HIV, especially those struggling with sticking to daily medication.

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This study looked at how the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) can help detect heart and lung problems in patients with systemic sclerosis, a serious autoimmune disease. Researchers found that patients with these problems walked an average of 89 meters less during the test than those without issues, and a drop in oxygen levels during exercise was much more common in those with heart and lung involvement. The main takeaway is that while a significant drop in walking distance can identify some patients at risk, the test alone isn’t enough, as it missed many cases. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with systemic sclerosis and their doctors by guiding more effective monitoring for heart and lung complications.

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This study looked at how to effectively identify multiple sclerosis (MS) in women aged 15 to 49 across six European countries from 2005 to 2019. It compared five different methods for diagnosing MS and found that the prevalence of the disease varied significantly, from 109 cases per 100,000 women in France to 359 in Norway, depending on the method used. Understanding these differences is important for better tracking and managing MS in this specific group of women, ensuring they receive appropriate care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers in improving the diagnosis and treatment of women with MS.

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This study focused on creating specific tools called primers to help identify different strains of a bacteria called Enterobacter, which can be important for both health and the environment. Researchers tested these primers on 123 strains and found that they could accurately identify Enterobacter strains in a quick and cost-effective way. They discovered that about one-third of samples previously labeled as Enterobacter were actually not correctly identified, emphasizing the need for better identification methods. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers identify bacterial infections more accurately.

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This research looked at how to best estimate the number of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) using healthcare data from six European countries, focusing on women of childbearing age and pregnant women. The study found that the way data is collected can significantly change the estimated rates of MS, with Norway having the highest rate of 402 cases per 100,000 women in 2019, while Finland had 218 cases per 100,000 among pregnant women in 2018. Understanding how to accurately measure MS prevalence is important for healthcare planning and treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers by providing better insights for managing MS.

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This study looked at how adding methylcellulose (MC) and poloxamer 188 (P188) together can improve the growth of CHO cells, which are important for producing certain medicines. The researchers found that using both MC and P188 together led to better cell growth, achieving higher cell counts compared to using either one alone. Specifically, while MC helped in less intense conditions, the combination of the two additives worked best across different settings. Who this helps: This benefits biopharmaceutical companies working with CHO cells to produce medications.

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This study looks at a 50-year-old man who developed painful lumps on his hand, initially misdiagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. After worsening symptoms, doctors discovered he had an infection from a rare type of bacteria called Mycobacterium marinum. Following appropriate treatment, his symptoms significantly improved, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and properly treating rare infections rather than misdiagnosing them. Who this helps: This benefits patients with unusual infections and doctors who need to accurately diagnose and treat such cases.

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This study looked at two methods of pain control (nerve blocks) during gender-affirming mastectomy surgeries to see which was more effective. It compared the use of these blocks before the surgery (preoperatively) versus during the surgery (intraoperatively) in 438 patients, finding no significant difference in pain relief or opioid use between the two groups. This matters because using intraoperative blocks can save resources without compromising patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing gender-affirming mastectomies and the healthcare providers caring for them.

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This study looked at why some women in the United States choose to enter sex work and how they define it. Researchers interviewed 17 women in Las Vegas and found that their reasons include feelings of empowerment and freedom, along with factors like their work environment and personal qualities. The study highlights that misconceptions about sex work can affect public policies and attitudes, emphasizing the need for more accurate narratives and a move toward decriminalization. Who this helps: This helps women in sex work, policymakers, and advocates for social justice.

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This study looked at how different methods of identifying children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in healthcare records affected reported rates of these conditions across five European countries. Researchers analyzed data from over 3.1 million children and found that ADHD rates in specialist settings varied significantly, with Finland reporting the highest prevalence at 24.1 per 1,000 children. The study highlights that using data from both specialist and primary care settings can provide a clearer picture of how many children are affected by these disorders, which is important for better identification and support. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers better identify children with ADHD and ASD, ensuring they receive the necessary support and treatment.

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This study looked at how often patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) have brain metastases and the imaging used to identify them. Among nearly 7,000 Medicare patients, 21.4% had brain metastases at diagnosis, and more than 27% didn’t receive the recommended brain scans, especially those living in high-poverty areas. This matters because patients who don’t get proper scans may miss out on crucial treatments, showing a need for better healthcare access for all. Who this helps: This benefits patients with non-small cell lung cancer and their doctors by highlighting the importance of consistent imaging and treatment regardless of socioeconomic status.

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Researchers studied pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (pAML) by analyzing over 700,000 cells from 95 patients to find out why some cases are harder to treat. They discovered that certain types of cells linked to specific genetic mutations are resistant to standard treatments and are associated with worse outcomes for patients. This research shows that by identifying these resistant cell types, new treatment options like bortezomib and venetoclax can be used to improve the chances of successful treatment for affected children. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia and their doctors.

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This study examined the traceability of British Thoroughbreds that are not currently racing. Researchers found that, while 98% of the 8,256 horses studied had a passport, only 64% of them were registered under their current owner’s name, even though 90% knew they should update the details. Improving traceability systems is important for ensuring the welfare of these horses throughout their lives. Who this helps: This helps horse owners and organizations focused on horse welfare.

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This study looked at various guidelines to help doctors prevent and diagnose vaginal and vulvar cancers. Researchers found 45 guidelines published in the last ten years, with most focusing on prevention and early detection, but many lacked specific timelines for actions. This is important because consistent guidelines can lead to better cancer care and outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors involved in treating vaginal and vulvar cancers.

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This study looked at how different sources of information affected people's decisions to get vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. It found that over half of the participants were most influenced by conversations with family and friends, while 44% found traditional media like TV and radio persuasive. In contrast, unvaccinated individuals were four times more likely to be swayed by social media than those who were vaccinated, highlighting the need for reliable information spread through various channels to combat misinformation. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing clearer information about vaccination and improving public health strategies.

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This study looked at whether a specific tool for collecting data about multiple sclerosis (MS) could be successfully used in different healthcare settings. The researchers identified important design features needed for this tool to work well in a new environment and highlighted that while the idea of feasibility studies is talked about a lot, the steps to carry them out are not very clear. This matters because it offers a clearer process for other projects aiming to use existing technologies effectively. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers working on MS projects.

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This study looked at how different methods for identifying gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) across European healthcare databases affect the reported rates of the condition in five countries. Researchers found that GDM prevalence varied widely, ranging from as low as 1.3% in Italy to as high as 15.8% in Finland, depending on the method used to identify the cases. These findings are important because they highlight significant differences in reported rates of GDM, which could affect health monitoring and care strategies across Europe. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing clearer identification methods for gestational diabetes, leading to better care and outcomes during pregnancy.

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Researchers studied Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) Veterans who are homeless and found that they are 82% more likely to have a traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosis compared to their non-NHPI peers. This injury affects their ability to function and increases their need for various health services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The study showed that NHPI homeless Veterans with a TBI diagnosis use a wide range of VA services, highlighting the importance of comprehensive care to meet their needs effectively. Who this helps: This benefits homeless NHPI Veterans, their healthcare providers, and policymakers focused on veteran health.

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This research focused on a rare type of cancer called thymic mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), which often doesn’t respond well to standard chemotherapy. In a case study, a patient who had not improved with initial platinum-based treatment showed a long-lasting positive response to a drug called lenvatinib, which suggests that lenvatinib might be a better first choice for treating this kind of cancer. This matters because it could change how doctors approach treatment for patients with this specific cancer type. Who this helps: Patients with metastatic thymic mucoepidermoid carcinoma.

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This research focused on understanding the genetics of true goats (the genus Capra) by analyzing DNA from 62 individuals across 21 countries. The study found that wild goats are likely the only ancestors of domestic goats and confirmed that certain wild species are distinct groups. This matters because it helps improve our knowledge about goat diversity and can inform conservation efforts and agricultural practices. Who this helps: This helps farmers, conservationists, and researchers working with goat species.

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This study looks at a 57-year-old traveler who got very sick from Melioidosis after visiting Thailand, a bacterial infection that can affect multiple organs. Although tests showed that the bacteria should have responded to the antibiotic meropenem, the patient didn't get better after seven days on that treatment. Once the doctors switched to a different antibiotic, ceftazidime, the patient's health improved quickly. Who this helps: This information can benefit doctors treating patients with Melioidosis, especially in cases where standard treatments may not work.

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This study looked at how certain chemicals known as PFAS, which are linked to various health issues, attach to two types of estrogen receptors in the body. Researchers analyzed over 14,000 PFAS compounds and found that characteristics like density and reactivity affect how well these chemicals bind to the receptors. The findings could help predict which PFAS are more harmful, guiding future research and regulations. Who this helps: This helps patients, environmental health advocates, and regulators.

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This study looked at how day care centres in Germany promote physical activity among young children. Out of 1,647 centres surveyed, most provided at least one hour of unstructured playtime each day, but only about 25% offered the same amount of structured, planned physical activities. Improving facilities and encouraging staff to be active with children could help boost the amount of organized exercise provided. Who this helps: This benefits children in day care centres by encouraging a more active lifestyle.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affects pregnant women based on whether they were hospitalized or not. Among 86,210 pregnant women with COVID-19, only 4.4% were hospitalized. It found that women hospitalized due to COVID-19 faced higher risks of complications like cesarean sections, preterm births, and even stillbirths, particularly if they were hospitalized in the third trimester, with a risk of stillbirth being nearly six times higher. Who this helps: This research benefits pregnant women and their healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of preventing severe COVID-19 during pregnancy.

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This study focused on updating guidelines for using regenerative therapies, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cells, to treat chronic low back pain. The expert panel reached full agreement on 19 recommendations based on a careful review of existing research, which showed that these therapies may have moderate benefits, particularly PRP injections in the lumbar region. However, much of the evidence comes from smaller studies, highlighting the need for more high-quality research before these therapies can be widely recommended. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from chronic low back pain by providing informed treatment options.