THOMAS M. PARK, MD

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This study focused on a new method called DeepIMB that helps improve the accuracy of analyzing microbiome data, which often includes unreliable "zero" counts that don't reflect actual biological conditions. The researchers found that DeepIMB outperformed other methods used to fix these zero counts, showing better accuracy in various tests. This is important because better data quality leads to more reliable results in microbiome research, which can improve our understanding of health and disease. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists studying the microbiome, as well as patients seeking better treatments based on microbiome data.

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This study looked at how salt levels affect our ability to taste certain flavor-enhancing compounds found in fermented soybean paste, specifically nine gamma-glutamyl peptides. Researchers found that as saltiness increased, most of these peptides were harder to detect, but one peptide, gamma-Glutamyl-Phenylalanine (gamma-EF), was stable and detectable even at higher salinity levels. This is important because understanding how to maintain or enhance flavors in fermented foods while managing salt content can lead to healthier options without sacrificing taste. Who this helps: This benefits food manufacturers and consumers looking for tasty, lower-sodium fermented products.

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This study looked at how many patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis) are using cannabis to manage their symptoms. Researchers analyzed 2.6 million health records and found that cannabis use increased from 0.1% to 1.1% from 2004 to 2024, with 24.5% of patients documenting current use, especially among Black (36.2%) and Hispanic/Latino (30.1%) groups. The main reason for using cannabis was pain, particularly among women and patients of color, highlighting significant differences in who is using cannabis for symptom relief. Who this helps: This benefits patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases seeking better pain management options.

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This study focused on creating a new type of wearable pressure sensor that can measure a wide range of pressures, from very low (70 Pascals) to very high (4 megapascals). Researchers found that their sensor, made using a special material, can work effectively under various conditions, making it suitable for prosthetic devices that need to handle a lot of pressure. This technology is important because it allows for continuous monitoring of pressure in prosthetics, improving comfort and functionality for users. Who this helps: Patients using prosthetic limbs.

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This study looked at how aquatic mammals, like whales and dolphins, have developed different feeding methods over time. Researchers found that instead of all these species fitting neatly along an evolutionary path of feeding strategies, many of them show unusual adaptations that don't follow the typical route—like how their hearing has evolved, which has influenced their feeding shape. This matters because it helps us understand the complex ways animals adapt to their environments, which can inform conservation efforts and species management. Who this helps: This helps researchers and conservationists working to protect aquatic mammals.

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This research looks at the importance of living plant collections, like those found in botanic gardens, which hold about 30% of all land plant species. The study finds that to meet modern challenges such as conservation and education, these collections need better ways of managing and sharing their data across the globe. Improving data management is essential for advancing research and protecting plant diversity effectively. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists, researchers, and anyone interested in plant biodiversity.

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This research looked at how to produce nickel, which is important for electric vehicle batteries, in a more environmentally friendly way using hydrogen instead of traditional methods that create a lot of carbon emissions. The team found that by adjusting the size of the ore particles, they significantly improved the efficiency of nickel recovery, achieving about 20% mass loss in just 15 minutes at a high temperature of 900°C, resulting in high-quality nickel and iron. This work is important because it offers a way to make nickel production more sustainable, which is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of electric vehicle batteries. Who this helps: This benefits electric vehicle manufacturers and environmental advocates.

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This study examined how liver cancer cells become resistant to a treatment called sorafenib. Researchers found that in these resistant cells, levels of a tumor-suppressing protein called TIMP3 were notably lower, which led to increased tumor aggressiveness and growth. They discovered that a molecule called miR-149-3p reduced TIMP3 levels, promoting cancer cell invasion and survival; this links lower TIMP3 levels to more aggressive tumors and resistance to treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer, particularly those struggling with treatment resistance.

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This study looked at mental health issues that develop in patients who survived cardiogenic shock (a severe heart condition), focusing on the effects of new mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. About 11,166 out of 112,297 patients (9.9%) developed these disorders after leaving the hospital, which increased their risk for serious health problems, but those who started taking psychiatric medications saw significant improvements, including a 49% lower risk of dying. This finding emphasizes the importance of managing mental health in heart patients to improve their long-term health. Who this helps: This benefits patients who survive cardiogenic shock and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a virus that infects Salmonella bacteria, called phage P22, assembles and starts an infection. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to visualize the structure of the virus and discovered that certain proteins play key roles in its assembly and infection process. Specifically, they found that a protein called gp10 helps organize different parts of the virus, allowing it to effectively penetrate and infect bacterial cells. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying viral infections and could aid in developing treatments for bacterial diseases.

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This study examined how healthcare workers feel about using a new artificial intelligence system designed to help doctors decide how much blood is needed for surgeries. Researchers spoke with 14 staff members, including doctors and nurses, and found that while they believed the system could make blood ordering more efficient, they were also worried it might create extra work and could fail in unexpected situations. Their feedback highlights the need for careful planning and support to ensure the new system helps rather than hinders patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients who require blood transfusions during surgery by aiming to improve the blood ordering process.

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This study looked at how laparoscopic (small incision) and open surgery techniques compare in treating congenital duodenal obstruction (a blockage in the intestine) in children. It analyzed data from 75 patients and found that while laparoscopic surgery took longer to perform, patients who had laparoscopic surgery stayed in the hospital for a shorter time. Both types of surgery had similar rates of complications, and there were no deaths, indicating that laparoscopic surgery is a safe option for selected patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in deciding the best surgical approach for children with this condition.

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This study focused on developing a new type of optical amplifier, which helps improve long-distance communication and other applications like sensing and quantum computing. The researchers created a device that delivers more than 17 dB gain while using less than 200 mW of power, significantly better than previous models. This advancement makes it easier to integrate these amplifiers into small devices, paving the way for future technologies in both quantum and traditional optics. Who this helps: This helps engineers and researchers developing advanced communication and sensing technologies.

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Researchers developed a new device called a photospike-based true random number generator (PS-TRNG) that uses light and nanostructures to create highly random outputs for digital security. It can generate random numbers with almost perfect uniformity, and it successfully passed all 15 tests for randomness recognized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This technology is important because it helps verify the authenticity of images, making it possible to detect unauthorized changes even from advanced AI tools, which is crucial for maintaining trust in digital content. Who this helps: This benefits anyone who relies on digital images, including photographers, social media platforms, and news organizations.

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This study examined how mutations in the FOXA1 gene affect prostate cancer development. Researchers found that these mutations are present in 10% to 40% of prostate cancers and can change how cells respond to certain signals, leading to more aggressive tumor growth. Specifically, they discovered that different mutations result in distinct cellular changes, with some mutations encouraging the cancer to develop faster and shift in type. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with prostate cancer by providing insights that could lead to better-targeted therapies.

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This study looked at a targeted therapy for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a fast-growing cancer that is hard to treat, with a focus on a protein called KDM4A. Researchers found that a new drug they created could kill AML cells and stop them from growing while leaving normal blood cells unharmed. They discovered that this drug also made leukaemia cells more vulnerable to other treatments, especially those that work on DNA damage, which is important for developing better therapies for this challenging disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and their doctors by offering a new treatment option.

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This study explored a new type of tiny electronic device that mimics how our brains work using materials known as cadmium selenide nanowires. Researchers found that these devices can efficiently perform tasks similar to human learning, scoring over 80% accuracy in recognizing handwritten numbers, while using very little energy—about 8.848 femtojoules for each synaptic event. This is important because it could lead to smarter computers that operate more like our brains and use much less power. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working on advanced computer technologies and artificial intelligence.

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This study focused on a type of immune cell called Thetis cells (TCs), specifically how they develop and what regulates their formation. Researchers found that a group of cells, known as Thetis-lymphoid tissue inducer progenitors (TLPs), can develop into TCs, with one critical factor, RANKL, needed for their maturation. Understanding TCs is important because they help the immune system differentiate between harmless substances, like food and gut bacteria, and potential threats, which could lead to new treatments for allergies and autoimmune diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients with food allergies and autoimmune disorders by potentially leading to new treatments.

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This study examined the role of a specific gene, APOE, in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and found that factors beyond this gene also contribute to the disease. Researchers analyzed large datasets and discovered that over 64% of the proteins linked to AD were unique to those with the APOE gene, while 17% showed specific patterns related to this gene. Key issues identified include problems with cell energy production, inflammation, and fat metabolism, which are crucial for understanding AD and could help in creating better treatments. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Alzheimer's disease and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how to treat children who accidentally swallow multiple magnets. Researchers found that for certain children—like those who showed up early and had no severe symptoms—using an endoscopy (a less invasive procedure) instead of surgery led to fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and less need for antibiotics. Specifically, endoscopy allowed for a quicker recovery; all ten endoscopy patients were treated using moderate sedation rather than requiring general anesthesia like the 21 surgery patients. Who this helps: This approach primarily benefits young patients who ingest magnets and are otherwise stable and asymptomatic.

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Researchers studied how a specific protein called CD70, which sometimes appears in varying amounts in solid tumors, could be targeted by a new type of CAR T cell therapy. They found that some tumors have high levels of CD70 while others have very low levels, which often go undetected with traditional methods. By using a more sensitive detection method, they successfully targeted and eliminated these tumors, showing promise for treating various hard-to-reach cancers. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients with solid tumors that were previously difficult to treat.

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This study focused on creating a smart garment that allows for continuous and comfortable monitoring of breathing in dogs at home. The garment uses special sensors to track respiration, body temperature, and physical activity, showing over 94% accuracy in recognizing different breathing patterns in Labrador and Boxer breeds. This technology is important because it can help pet owners detect health issues early, improving care for dogs that may need closer monitoring. Who this helps: This benefits dog owners and veterinarians by providing better tools for at-home health monitoring.

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This study looked at the cost-effectiveness of psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) compared to standard treatments for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The researchers found that PAT was not only more effective but also saved about $7,000 per patient, leading to an additional 0.10 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. Over a longer period of 30 years, the savings could reach $215,900 with almost 10 additional QALYs, showing that early benefits from PAT help reduce longer-term healthcare costs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with treatment-resistant depression and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a special type of material called YbCrGe, which has unique electronic properties due to its arrangement of atoms. Researchers found that when the temperature drops, the electronic states combine in a way that creates different phases, suggesting that both geometric arrangement and electron interactions play a key role in its behavior. This is important because it could lead to new insights into materials that behave in unusual ways, which can help in the development of advanced technologies. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working on quantum materials and potential applications in electronics.

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This study looked at how bentonite clay near metal containers changes over time when exposed to real groundwater. Over 6.5 years, researchers found that while the bentonite’s properties slightly degraded, this was mainly due to minerals being washed away by water rather than the metals corroding. These findings are important because they help us understand how safe nuclear waste storage will be over time, showing that careful monitoring is needed to ensure that harmful substances don’t leak into the environment. Who this helps: This helps engineers and scientists involved in nuclear waste management.

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This study looked at the link between hearing loss and dementia by examining data from over 16,000 people. Researchers found that individuals with severe hearing loss were nearly seven times more likely to develop dementia, while those with sensorineural hearing loss had about a four times higher risk. Recognizing and treating hearing loss early may help reduce the chances of developing dementia in older adults. Who this helps: This benefits older adults and healthcare providers working to prevent dementia.

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This study looked at how salty the soil has become in the coastal mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. between 2000 and 2016, particularly due to rising sea levels and storms. Researchers found that while over 75% of the land stayed non-saline, there were fluctuations in salinity levels, with extreme salinity areas decreasing by 833 square kilometers and non-saline areas increasing by 1,138 square kilometers. This is important because understanding soil salinity helps us protect farmland and ecosystems in a changing climate. Who this helps: Farmers and environmental planners.

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This study focused on understanding how small molecules known as reactive oxygen species (ROS) affect the development of megakaryocytes, the cells that make platelets. The researchers found that a balanced level of ROS is necessary for the proper maturation of these cells, and poor regulation of ROS can lead to issues with platelet production in conditions like aging and inflammation. This matters because improving our understanding of ROS could help increase the number of platelets produced in labs, which is crucial for treating patients with low platelet counts. Who this helps: Patients who need platelet transfusions.

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This study looked at how ready the Korean American community in Los Angeles is for the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), which helps seniors get all their healthcare and support needs in one place. Researchers spoke with 28 people, including older adults and caregivers, and found that most were not aware of PACE, with many having misconceptions about it. While they appreciated benefits like coordinated care and staying in their homes, they raised concerns about changing doctors and the qualifications of PACE providers, suggesting that outreach needs to be tailored to their culture and concerns. Who this helps: This benefits older Korean American adults and their caregivers by making essential care programs more accessible and relevant to their needs.

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This study explored a new way to create traffic noise maps using artificial intelligence. Researchers developed a computer model called a convolutional neural network (CNN), which significantly improved the accuracy and speed of predicting average noise levels during busy times in South Korean cities. The findings show that this technology could allow for quick and accurate traffic noise monitoring in various areas with little additional data. Who this helps: This benefits city planners and environmental agencies aiming to reduce noise pollution.

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In this study, researchers looked at how the absence of gut bacteria affected brain cells called microglia in germ-free piglets during a crucial time in brain development. They found that in one specific brain area, the prefrontal cortex, the density of microglia increased and showed signs of being activated, even though overall microglial density didn't change in other areas. This matters because it highlights how important gut bacteria are for brain health, suggesting that changes in gut microbiota can influence brain development and potentially affect the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors understand the link between gut health and brain development, which may lead to better strategies for preventing or treating neurodevelopmental issues in infants.

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This study looked at how adding molybdenum (Mo) to a thin film made of strontium ruthenate (SrRuO) affects its magnetic properties, particularly its electrical resistivity related to the Hall effect. The researchers found that doping with Mo increased the Hall resistivity significantly and created a unique pattern in its behavior, known as a "hump anomaly," which can be useful in improving spintronic devices. This is important because it helps scientists find ways to better control the flow of electrical spin in future technologies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working on advanced electronic devices, especially in the field of spintronics.

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This study focused on improving a type of fuel cell, called polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, which struggle with performance changes when humidity levels vary. Researchers used a new design featuring a carbon nanotube sheet, which significantly boosted power output by about 270%, while also reducing issues that limit efficiency by up to 76%. This innovation helps make fuel cells more stable and reliable, which is essential for their wider use in cleaner energy applications. Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers and developers of fuel cell technology, as well as industries looking to adopt cleaner energy solutions.

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This study looked at how using certain heart medications (ACEIs and ARBs) affects survival rates in COVID-19 patients who also have ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Researchers analyzed data from over 30,000 patients and found that those with IHD who took these medications had a 74% lower chance of dying from COVID-19 compared to those who did not take them, especially in patients older than 70. These results stress the importance of personalized treatment for older patients with heart conditions during the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps older patients with heart disease and their doctors make better treatment decisions during COVID-19.

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This study looked at how a protein called SMARCD3 affects the development of gastric cancer by influencing two key cell signaling pathways: PI3K-AKT and WNT/β-Catenin. Researchers found that when SMARCD3 was increased in certain cancer cell lines, it led to more aggressive cancer behavior, as shown by higher levels of markers associated with cancer spread. Specifically, SMARCD3 caused an increase in the proteins Snail and Slug, which help cancer cells become more mobile, contributing to tumor growth and spread. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with gastric cancer by highlighting a potential new treatment target to slow down or stop cancer spread.

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This research paper looks at the problem of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in oceans and coastal areas, which can have serious effects on human health, wildlife, and economies. It highlights that despite the increasing frequency and impact of these blooms, effective control methods are still underdeveloped. The findings emphasize the need for better regulations, more research funding, and greater public awareness to tackle this growing issue effectively. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, marine wildlife, and communities relying on fishing and tourism.

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The research discusses how machine learning can improve the design and manufacturing of photonic devices, which are used to control light in applications like communication and imaging. The study highlights that traditional methods for developing these devices are often slow and costly, but new machine learning techniques can make the process faster and more efficient. For example, these techniques help in producing better designs and quicker simulations, ultimately speeding up the time it takes to create advanced photonic devices. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers developing new technologies that rely on light control.

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This study looked at how changes in proteins found in blood over time relate to early signs of Alzheimer's disease and its progression. Researchers found that two proteins (ACES and IGFALS) are linked to the initial stages of cognitive decline, while six other proteins (including ACES, C7, and ZCD1) are associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease dementia. Notably, their method for predicting who might develop Alzheimer's showed an accuracy of 84.8%. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk of Alzheimer's disease and their healthcare providers by improving early detection and monitoring.

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This study looked at different types of immune cells called cDC2s to understand how they develop and function in the body. The researchers found that there are two main groups of cDC2s, which they named cDC2As and cDC2Bs, and that the cDC2As need specific signals from retinoic acid and lymphotoxin-β to survive and work properly. This is important because it helps clarify how these immune cells are made and controlled, which can lead to better treatments for diseases related to the immune system. Who this helps: This helps patients who have immune system disorders.

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This study looked at different types of immune cells called conventional dendritic cells (cDC2), specifically focusing on two subsets: cDC2A and cDC2B, in mice. Researchers discovered that a specific signaling pathway involving signals from the lymphotoxin beta receptor and retinoic acid is crucial for maintaining the cDC2A cells, which are most common in the spleen. Understanding how these signals work helps explain why certain immune responses happen and can lead to new treatments for diseases. Who this helps: This research benefits immunologists and researchers developing therapies for immune-related diseases.

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This study looked at the nutritional quality of livestock feed from different factories in South Korea to improve animal health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers found significant differences in feed qualities like moisture, protein, and fiber content, and developed a new imaging system that can accurately measure these nutrients in real-time. Using this technology can help farmers give their livestock the best diet, leading to healthier animals and less pollution. Who this helps: Farmers and livestock producers.

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This study looked at how mothers with heart disease before pregnancy affect the health of their babies. It found that babies born to these mothers had higher risks for problems like congenital malformations (about 9% more likely), needing care in a neonatal intensive care unit (19% more likely), and developing neurodevelopmental disorders (8% more likely). Understanding these risks is important for healthcare providers to monitor and support affected pregnancies more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients, specifically mothers with heart conditions and their children.

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This study looked at a dietary questionnaire designed for patients who had stomach surgery due to gastric cancer. Researchers found that patients' food intake dropped to about 40% of their normal amount one month after surgery but gradually improved to nearly 75% by a year. The questionnaire effectively tracked patients' nutrition and recovery, showing it can help identify those at risk of poor nutrition after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits gastric cancer patients recovering from surgery.

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This study focused on improving how robots learn to perform tasks, such as pushing and grasping objects, by using a new method called Most Overestimated Q Value Regularization (MQR). The researchers found that MQR led to a success rate of 96.94% in simulations and 99.04% in real-world tests, greatly reducing errors compared to previous methods. This matters because it helps robots become more reliable and efficient in complex environments, making them more suitable for real-world applications in industries. Who this helps: This helps patients, doctors, and industries that rely on robotic systems for tasks.

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This study looked at factors that might increase the risk of developing sialolithiasis, a condition where salivary stones form. Researchers examined data from 2,160 participants, including 540 with the condition. They found that Sjogren's syndrome and obesity were linked to higher chances of developing sialolithiasis, while conditions like essential hypertension and Type 2 diabetes without complications seemed to reduce the risk. Understanding these factors is crucial for early diagnosis and better treatment of salivary stones. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for salivary stones and their doctors in managing and preventing the condition.

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This study focused on creating a four-episode telenovela specifically for Puerto Rican caregivers looking after hospice patients. Ten caregivers participated, and their preparedness and knowledge about end-of-life care improved after watching the videos. The participants found the telenovela helpful, culturally relevant, and emotionally engaging, highlighting the need for better resources for this group. Who this helps: This helps Puerto Rican hospice caregivers improve their skills and knowledge in caring for loved ones at the end of life.

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Researchers studied how a molecule called PIP2 affects a specific ion channel in human eyes that helps us see in low light. They found that PIP2 inhibits this channel, making it less sensitive to a key signaling molecule, which impacts how well our eyes can adjust to changes in light. Specifically, when PIP2 is present, the ability of the channel to open and allow ions to flow is significantly reduced. Who this helps: This helps patients with vision issues related to light sensitivity.

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This study explores how a specific magnetic effect, called the gyrotropic magnetic effect (GME), behaves in certain metallic materials that have unique spin arrangements. The researchers calculated how this effect can vary in different metals and found that it can be quite significant, particularly in nonrelativistic metals with a high energy level, indicating specific values for the rotatory power. Understanding these dynamics is important because it could help us discover new materials with unique properties for advanced technologies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers developing new magnetic materials and technologies.