STEVEN E. FISHER, M.D.

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This study brought together experts to develop clear guidelines for managing pregnancy in women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition that can complicate pregnancy. They reviewed existing research and created 34 recommendations to help guide doctors on treating these patients safely, with the understanding that the mother's health significantly affects the baby's health. The aim is to reduce confusion for both patients and doctors and improve outcomes during pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study gathered experts to create guidelines for managing pregnancy in women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as many doctors and patients feel uncertain due to a lack of clear information. They produced 34 specific recommendations and 35 consensus statements, emphasizing that the health of the mother greatly influences the health of the baby. This is important because it helps standardize care for pregnant women with IBD, improving health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease and their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at group-based programs in England that provide education and support to help mothers breastfeed. It found that these interventions not only led to an increase in breastfeeding rates but also resulted in fewer infections and deaths in babies, and fewer breast cancer cases in mothers. Specifically, these programs cost £28 per mother-baby pair but saved £89 due to the health benefits, making them a cost-effective choice. Who this helps: This benefits mothers and their babies, as well as healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how older adults living in long-term care facilities in Ontario were affected after being hospitalized with a hip fracture. It found that after their hospital stays, a shocking 69% of these residents became dependent for daily activities, compared to only 10% before hospitalization. Additionally, the ability to maintain balance while standing severely declined from 20% to 80%. These findings highlight the need for better support and rehabilitation for these patients to help them recover after serious hospital stays. Who this helps: This benefits patients in long-term care facilities and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how sleep quality impacts the development of clinical depression over six years in nearly 14,000 middle-aged and older Canadians. It found that people who reported being very dissatisfied with their sleep were 1.6 times more likely to develop depression, while those who were satisfied had a 1.2 times higher risk compared to those who were very satisfied with their sleep. Additionally, those who slept less than 4 hours or more than 10 hours each night also had a greater chance of becoming depressed. Improving sleep quality could help reduce the risk of developing depression. Who this helps: This helps patients who struggle with sleep issues and may be at risk for depression.

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This study looked at how confident veterinarians in Great Britain feel about treating birds and diagnosing avian influenza (HPAI). Out of 72 veterinarians surveyed, only 6% felt confident in treating birds, and more than 83% were not sure how to rule out HPAI when birds were sick. These findings are important because they highlight a lack of confidence that could affect the diagnosis and control of HPAI, which is crucial for both animal and public health. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and poultry owners by identifying areas where more training and support are needed.

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This study looked at how per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), harmful chemicals often found in contaminated soils, behave in different moisture conditions. Researchers found that when soil was partially saturated with water (25% full), the amount of certain PFAS increased, and in older, heavily contaminated soils, this happened more when the soil was fully saturated. Understanding these patterns helps in developing better cleanup methods for PFAS pollution. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and cleanup crews working to manage PFAS contamination in soils.

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This study looked at how parents of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia feel about physical therapy (PT) for their kids. Out of 20 parents surveyed, 70% said they want PT to be nearby, and 45% prefer virtual sessions. Half of the parents believe PT should start during the maintenance phase of treatment but are open to it beginning earlier if framed as normal care. This research matters because understanding parents' views can help improve access to PT, which is vital for their children's recovery. Who this helps: This benefits parents of children with cancer and healthcare providers involved in their care.

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This study looked at how bacterial small RNAs (sRNAs) bind to messenger RNA (mRNA) in protein-coding regions of genes. Researchers found that certain binding sites within these coding sequences are highly conserved, meaning they are very similar across different bacteria, with over 95% similarity in some cases. This suggests that the use of common genetic "words" (codons) at these sites helps sRNAs find their targets, which is essential for regulating gene expression. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and doctors looking for ways to understand and manipulate bacterial gene regulation, which can impact treatment strategies for bacterial infections.

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This study focused on training charge nurses in hospitals to better support their colleagues who experience emotional and professional challenges after adverse medical events, known as second victims. After participating in a structured training program, which included hands-on practice and discussions, charge nurses reported feeling more confident in providing support, with early signs showing better peer support and increased awareness among staff. This is important because it helps create a safer and more supportive environment for healthcare workers, ultimately improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and their leaders by improving support systems for staff affected by job-related stress.

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This study focused on creating a new research platform that allows scientists to use optogenetics (a technique to control brain activity using light) in non-human primate experiments more effectively. Researchers tested this platform on two rhesus macaques and found it successfully disrupted their reaching movements while recording electrical activity in the brain. This innovation is important because it provides a stable and long-lasting way to study brain activity and its relationship to behavior, which can help advance our understanding of brain disorders. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

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This study examined a nutrition program called the "Plant Plunge" that taught 64 medical students about whole food, plant-based (WFPB) diets through seminars and provided them with plant-based meals for four weeks. After the program, students' nutrition knowledge improved significantly, from an average score of 73.3% to 87.0%, and 65% reported feeling more informed about food ingredients. This matters because it shows that experiential education can enhance future doctors' understanding of nutrition, which is vital for helping patients make healthier lifestyle choices. Who this helps: This helps medical students and, indirectly, their future patients.

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This study looked at how glioblastoma patients in Australia responded to a new type of radiation therapy that adapts to changes in tumors during treatment. Researchers treated 27 patients and found that they experienced manageable side effects, with 39.3% needing adjustments to their treatment plans due to rapid tumor changes. On average, patients lived for 14.1 months after starting treatment, and most showed a decline in their quality of life at three months, with some recovery by six months. Who this helps: This benefits glioblastoma patients by offering a treatment option that can adapt to their changing conditions.

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The IMPACT program was designed to encourage physical activity in children and teens with cancer during treatment. Out of 93 patients referred to the program, only 12 completed the 12-week exercise sessions, which shows a participation rate of 39%. This is important because while many patients were referred, most did not engage fully, highlighting a need for better recruitment and support strategies. Who this helps: This helps pediatric cancer patients looking to improve their quality of life through physical activity.

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This study examined how well a physical therapy program can identify physical issues in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) during treatment. The researchers found that 95% of the 20 children tested had reduced ankle movement, and 74% showed problems with motor and sensory function. Improving how we assess these issues is important because it can help provide timely support for children suffering from side effects of their cancer treatment. Who this helps: This helps children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and their healthcare providers.

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The MOMI Consortium studied serious pregnancy complications like preterm birth and stillbirth by analyzing data from over 24,000 pregnant women in countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan. They used advanced techniques to look at genetic and biological information to understand the causes of these problems better. This research is important because it aims to improve healthcare for mothers and babies, especially in low-income countries where these issues are most common. Who this helps: Patients, especially pregnant women in low- and middle-income countries.

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This study focused on creating a specific health measurement tool for thyroid cancer survivors to better understand their quality of life. Researchers developed the Thyroid Cancer Quality of Life Index (TCQOLI) and tested it with over 200 patients, confirming that it accurately reflects their experiences. This tool helps improve health care decisions and resource planning for thyroid cancer, leading to better support and care for patients. Who this helps: Patients with thyroid cancer.

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This study looked at how frequently moving affects children's chances of experiencing difficult life events, known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). It found that kids who move often are more than twice as likely to face ACEs, especially if their families are going through tough times like divorce or financial struggles. Improving neighborhood support can help reduce both the number of moves and the associated risks for children, making stable and safe environments crucial for their well-being.

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This study looks at how well different treatments for concussions work in older adults, specifically those aged 65 and older. Most existing research has focused on younger populations, so this review will pull together all available studies to better understand how to help older adults who have had concussions. By examining data from various sources, researchers aim to determine which treatments are effective and to improve future care guidelines for older patients. Who this helps: This benefits older patients who experience concussions and their healthcare providers.

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This research discusses the need for a consistent monitoring program for coastal wetlands in Hawai'i. It highlights that these wetlands are crucial for endangered species and local food systems but lack coordinated data collection, which leads to inefficiencies. Establishing a statewide program could improve tracking of important environmental changes, helping to protect native wildlife and support climate resilience efforts. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists, wildlife managers, and local communities relying on coastal resources.

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This study looked at how to better target abdominal tumors during radiation therapy using advanced MRI technology, focusing on two new methods for creating treatment areas when standard 4D imaging isn’t available. Researchers analyzed data from 10 patients, comparing the new methods with traditional imaging; they found that the new "Boolean Combine" method produced smaller and more accurate treatment areas for tumors that move a lot. This is important because it can lead to more effective treatment while reducing side effects for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing radiation therapy for abdominal tumors, especially those with moving lesions.

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This review studied the emotional distress that nurses experience after making medical errors, known as the "second victim" phenomenon, and how it relates to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It found that 60% of healthcare professionals reported negative changes in their mood and thinking patterns, while 35% experienced anxiety, 30% had insomnia, and 20% dealt with intrusive memories. Understanding this emotional impact is important because it shows that healthcare workers suffer significantly from the consequences of their mistakes, highlighting the need for better support systems in medical environments. Who this helps: This helps healthcare professionals, especially nurses, who face emotional challenges after adverse events.

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This study looked at a specific protein channel called TRPML1, which is important for cell function, and how different compounds can influence its activity. Researchers used a technique called cryo-electron microscopy to create detailed images of the TRPML1 channel when it was combined with ten different compounds designed to either activate or block it. They found new insights into how these compounds interact with the channel, which could help develop better drugs in the future. Who this helps: This research benefits drug developers and patients who may need improved treatments for diseases related to lysosomal function.

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Researchers studied children with blood cancers who were admitted to intensive care for sepsis. They found an 85% survival rate overall, but certain factors increased the risk of death, such as not being in complete remission and having just undergone stem cell transplants. Additionally, children with viral infections had a much lower survival rate of 50%, and about 25% were readmitted due to sepsis, especially those with high-risk cancers or whose central lines weren't removed. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by identifying high-risk groups and informing treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how to improve the training and roles of Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) in radiotherapy. The revised competency framework helps ensure that ACPs are well-prepared and trained to meet the needs of patients by clearly defining their skills and responsibilities, while also supporting their development through training programs. The changes aim to create a better and more effective radiotherapy service, which is crucial as the demand for these services grows. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving radiotherapy by ensuring they have access to well-trained professionals.

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This study looked at caregivers in Canada who retired from their jobs to provide full-time unpaid care to someone else and what factors influenced their decision to stop working. Out of 672 caregivers examined, 336 retired to care for someone else, with most of the factors affecting this decision being related to the caregiving demands rather than the caregivers’ health or income. The findings highlight the need for workplace policies that offer flexibility for caregivers and suggest that improving access to support services could help reduce the burden on them. Who this helps: This benefits caregivers, patients receiving care, and policymakers.

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This study looked at how the experiences of people seeking asylum in the UK affect their decisions about getting vaccinated. Researchers interviewed 25 asylum seekers, finding that many struggled with trauma, fear, and distrust in the healthcare system, which made them less likely to trust vaccinations. They discovered that when participants felt cared for and empowered, they were more inclined to accept vaccines; however, problematic living conditions and a focus on survival often took precedence over health decisions. Who this helps: This research benefits asylum seekers and healthcare providers working with them.

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This study examined how a tablet-based program called Nurse AMIE could help manage symptoms in 344 rural patients with advanced cancer. Researchers wanted to see if using this technology would improve survival rates, aiming for a 19% increase over two years compared to standard care. The findings are important because they could show that continuous symptom management using technology can lead to better health outcomes for patients who struggle to access care. Who this helps: This helps rural cancer patients by providing them with better support for their symptoms.

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This study looked at how structural racism affects the self-control and behavior problems of Black adolescents. Researchers found that a family-centered program called Strong African American Families (SAAF) helped reduce the negative impact of structural racism on the youths' self-regulation skills. Specifically, while it didn't directly reduce behavior issues related to low self-regulation, the program did interrupt the link between structural racism and those behavior problems, suggesting that supporting families can be a protective factor. Who this helps: This benefits Black adolescents and their families by offering support to improve mental health and behavior.

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This study looked at how to improve air quality in New York City nail salons by using better ventilation systems. Six salons were monitored, and it was found that those effectively using both local and general exhaust systems reduced harmful chemical levels in the air by as much as 73.8%, while one salon that opened windows achieved an 82.2% reduction. Improving ventilation is important because it can lower health risks for workers and customers in these salons. Who this helps: This helps nail salon workers and their customers.

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This study looked at Farber's lipogranulomatosis (FL), a rare genetic disease causing severe pain and swelling in joints, voice problems, and painful lumps under the skin. A girl with FL who was struggling with debilitating symptoms improved significantly after receiving a treatment combining a medication called Tocilizumab and a stem cell transplant; her cognitive function and overall well-being got better, and her painful lumps disappeared. This is important because it shows that a combination of targeted therapies can lead to a better quality of life for patients with this challenging condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with Farber's lipogranulomatosis and their families.

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This study looked at how effective granulocyte transfusions (GTXs) are for children with cancer and infections that don’t respond to regular treatments. Researchers found that after receiving GTXs, patients had higher levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections, which increased significantly in those who received larger transfusions. Additionally, C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, dropped notably after treatment, suggesting that the transfusions may help improve the patients’ conditions. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric cancer patients with infections that are hard to treat.

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This study looked at how to effectively switch patients with Parkinson's disease from a standard medication (immediate-release carbidopa-levodopa) to a new version that lasts longer (IPX203). Researchers found that by adjusting the doses, around 506 out of 589 patients successfully transitioned to the new medication, with most taking it three times a day. This is important because it shows that the new medication can provide better control of symptoms with fewer doses, which can improve patients' quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at how well large animal experiments, specifically using pigs, sheep, rabbits, and dogs, help advance a technique called ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) that assesses and conditions donor lungs for transplantation. Researchers reviewed 32 studies and found that 88% had low certainty in their findings, indicating that many results might not be reliable due to potential biases in the research methods. This matters because improving the quality of evidence can lead to better strategies for preserving and using donor lungs, ultimately helping more patients receive transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients in need of lung transplants, as well as doctors looking to improve transplant outcomes.

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This research paper focused on how to better manage pregnancies for women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The experts gathered 34 data-based recommendations and 35 consensus statements to create clear guidelines, recognizing that many doctors have different practices due to a lack of consistent data and understanding. These guidelines are important because they aim to improve maternal health during pregnancy, which in turn benefits the baby's health. Who this helps: This helps women with IBD who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, along with their healthcare providers.

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This research focused on how to manage pregnancy for women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as there is not enough reliable information on this topic. A group of experts reviewed existing data and created 34 specific recommendations for treatment and care to help ensure both the health of mothers and their babies. This is important because clear guidelines can reduce confusion among doctors and improve pregnancy outcomes for women with IBD. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

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Researchers gathered a global team of experts to create a unified set of guidelines for managing pregnancy in women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They reviewed the available studies and compiled 34 recommendations based on strong evidence, plus 35 additional statements based on expert opinion. Their main finding is that prioritizing the mother's health is essential for the health of her baby, and these guidelines aim to improve care for women with IBD during pregnancy. Who this helps: This benefits patients with inflammatory bowel disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a rare heart condition called coronary artery fistula (CAF), where abnormal connections form between blood vessels. Researchers successfully used a specially designed stent in a patient with a complex case, which improved blood flow to the heart and led to better health outcomes. This new approach is significant because it provides a solution for patients at high risk where traditional treatments do not work. Who this helps: This benefits patients with complex coronary artery fistulas and their healthcare providers.

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This research focuses on how to manage pregnancy for women who have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Experts from around the world reviewed existing data and came up with 34 recommendations and 35 consensus statements to improve care for these patients. Their main finding is that prioritizing the health of the mother leads to better outcomes for the baby, aiming to create consistent guidelines for doctors to follow. Who this helps: This helps women with IBD who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the safety and complications related to lower eyelid surgery, known as lower blepharoplasty, which is a popular cosmetic procedure in the U.S. Review of 36 research articles showed that serious complications are rare, with no major issues causing vision problems reported; most minor issues can be easily fixed. Understanding these outcomes helps patients feel more confident about the procedure and encourages doctors to refine their surgical techniques. Who this helps: This information benefits patients considering lower eyelid surgery and the doctors who perform it.

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This study investigated how certain building blocks of proteins, called depsipeptides, form structures in water. Researchers found that depsipeptides made with alpha backbones were significantly more stable and formed assemblies more easily than those with beta backbones, showing that the ability to assemble might have helped shape the selection of amino acids crucial for life. This discovery helps us understand the early chemistry that could have led to life on Earth. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying the origins of life and the development of biological molecules.

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This research looked at whether cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects how lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, and drinking alcohol impact brain health and the risk of dementia in people over 45. The study found that CVD may partly influence the relationship between physical activity and brain health, but the evidence is weak and limited, with only five relevant studies being analyzed. This is important because understanding how heart health connects to lifestyle and brain function can help develop better strategies for preventing dementia. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers seeking to improve brain health and reduce dementia risk through lifestyle changes.

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This study looked at how to make retirement homes in Ontario more equitable for older adults, especially for those from low-income backgrounds and diverse communities. Researchers planned to gather information from community groups and real-world data to see how often people choose retirement homes compared to long-term care facilities, and how social factors like income and language affect their decisions. The goal is to create recommendations that help ensure all seniors have fair access to these essential services, particularly in light of the barriers faced by some groups. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults, especially those from disadvantaged and diverse backgrounds.

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This study looked at how weather changes affect silicone sealants used in windows, specifically those made from a material called polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Researchers found that older, weathered sealants start to break down at much lower temperatures (450-510 °C) compared to new ones (610-710 °C), indicating that exposure to the elements weakens them. Despite this weakening, the overall amount of key silicone compounds remained mostly the same, meaning the sealants change in how they break down thermally rather than in their chemical makeup. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers and builders by providing insight into how long window sealants last and when they might need replacement.

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This study looked at how certain substances produced by gut bacteria can help protect infants from rotavirus infection, a serious cause of diarrhea in young children. Researchers found that in healthy adults, higher levels of two specific substances—indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-propionic acid (IPA)—were linked to less rotavirus shedding in stools. In Zambian infants with active rotavirus infections, the levels of these substances were significantly lower than in healthy infants, suggesting that increasing these compounds might help protect vulnerable children from the virus. Who this helps: This helps infants at risk of severe rotavirus infection.

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This study explored why low-income Black and Latina women aged 35 to 60 in North Philadelphia face challenges in starting and continuing mental health treatment. Researchers interviewed 50 women and found that stigma, lack of trust in providers, and negative past experiences with treatment were significant barriers. Meanwhile, having a supportive therapist and recognizing the benefits of treatment were important factors that encouraged them to seek help. Who this helps: This helps midlife women struggling with mental health issues, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

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This study focused on a program called IMPACT that provides physical activity sessions to children and teenagers with cancer through videoconferencing. Initially, participants took part in up to three tailored sessions per week for 12 weeks. The goal was to improve physical activity levels and quality of life, with the research looking at changes in activity tracked by devices and reported by participants and their caregivers after the program. Who this helps: This research benefits young cancer patients and their families by offering accessible ways to increase physical activity and improve overall well-being.