DR. VICTOR M. SANTANA, MD

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This study looked at clinical trials for children and teens with cancer around the world, focusing on the differences between high-income and low- or middle-income countries. Out of nearly 139,000 oncology trials, only about 3,149 were specifically for pediatrics, with 81.2% coming from high-income countries. This shows that low- and middle-income countries have fewer advanced treatment trials, which shows a need to improve access and collaboration for better care in these regions. Who this helps: This helps patients in low- and middle-income countries by highlighting the need for better access to cancer clinical trials.

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This study focused on creating a registry to track childhood cancer cases in Chennai, India, since many countries lack this important resource. Researchers found that while there are challenges, such as limited technology and poor record-keeping, positive factors like a belief in the value of data sharing and strong professional networks can help make the registry work. Establishing this registry is crucial for understanding how many children are affected by cancer, ultimately improving treatment options and support for families. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by improving cancer tracking and care.

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Researchers identified a new species of long-horned caddisfly in Chile's Andes mountains, specifically in the Tricahue Natural Park. This new species, named Desidério, has unique genital features that set it apart from related species, which helps refine our understanding of these insects. The findings highlight the diversity of life in this region and lay the groundwork for future studies on their evolution and biology. Who this helps: This helps scientists studying biodiversity and the ecological health of the Andes.

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This study looked at how well a new digital system for tracking pediatric cancer patients, called the Hospital-Based Cancer Registry (HBCR), and a resource implementation tool (ARIA) could work together in hospitals in Ethiopia. Researchers found that healthcare providers felt these digital tools were innovative and better than previous manual methods, with the digital registry seen as more effective in managing patient data and ARIA helping to standardize care. However, while there are supportive factors for implementing these systems, challenges like power outages and unreliable internet need to be addressed for success. Who this helps: This benefits pediatric cancer patients and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers created a workshop to improve research skills among pediatric cancer specialists in countries with limited resources. Over two weeks, 29 participants from 12 countries learned about research methods, ethics, and scientific writing, with strong feedback on their learning experience. This initiative helps build better research capacities in pediatric oncology, leading to improved treatment and outcomes for children with cancer. Who this helps: This helps pediatric oncologists and ultimately benefits young cancer patients.

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This research focuses on a new software system that controls a specialized type of scientific instrument called a High-Frequency Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (HF-EPR) spectrometer. The software successfully measured various materials under different conditions, such as Silicon Carbide with vanadium and lithium phthalocyanine, providing valuable data for studies in EPR. This matters because it improves how researchers can gather and analyze information about materials, leading to advancements in fields like materials science and chemistry. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists working in EPR spectroscopy and related fields.

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This study looked at using infrared imaging of the inner corner of the eye as a way to measure body temperature in children who do not have a fever. It involved 36 children, and results showed that measurements taken with this method were very similar to traditional methods like underarm and ear temperature checks, with minimal differences. This is important because being able to quickly and accurately measure body temperature can help identify fevers early, which is crucial during disease outbreaks, such as COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps children, parents, and health care providers by offering a quick, non-invasive way to monitor for fever.

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This study examined how endurance training (ET) influences motor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. The researchers analyzed data from 27 different trials involving 1,152 participants and found that ET significantly lowered motor symptom scores, showing an average reduction of 8 points compared to inactive controls and 6.8 points compared to active controls, which is above the suggested range for important changes in Parkinson's symptoms. This is important because it highlights the potential of ET to improve quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's disease by reducing their motor difficulties. Who this helps: Patients with Parkinson's disease.

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This research reviewed studies on regenerating whole teeth in animals, which could lead to new treatments for people who have lost teeth. The studies involved over 100 animals, including mini pigs and dogs, and showed that about 44% of them developed new teeth about 3.5 months after the procedure. This work is important because it suggests that creating natural teeth from scratch might be possible, offering a potentially better solution for tooth loss than current methods. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have lost teeth and are seeking more natural replacement options.

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The study looked at how medical students' education and health were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in nine different countries. They surveyed 2,280 medical students and found that while most were satisfied with online and hybrid learning, many reported worsening mental health, including issues like insomnia (40% of students), emotional irritability (57%), and headaches (36%). This is important because it highlights the need for better support services for students during challenging times. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators by identifying the need for improved mental health resources.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affected routine vaccinations for children in Brazil. Researchers found that vaccination rates dropped from 53.4 vaccines per 100,000 children before the pandemic to 50.4 afterward, marking a 9.4% decline compared to 2019. This is concerning because even in a country with a strong vaccination program, many children missed important shots during this time, which could leave them vulnerable to preventable diseases. Who this helps: This benefits children and their families by highlighting the need for stronger vaccination efforts.

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This study focuses on figuring out how to effectively use a new cancer treatment called blinatumomab in low- and middle-income countries, where survival rates for pediatric cancer are much lower. Researchers will gather insights from healthcare professionals and assess the costs and feasibility of implementing this therapy, aiming to create a solid plan for future use of similar treatments. By doing this, they hope to improve access to advanced cancer care for children in these regions. Who this helps: This helps children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries.

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This study looked at a new treatment combining chemotherapy with an experimental drug called hu14.18K322A for children newly diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, a serious cancer. The results showed that 66.7% of the children had a positive response after the first two treatment cycles, with tumor size decreasing by a median of 75%. After three years, 73.7% of the children remained cancer-free, and 86% were alive, highlighting the treatment's potential to improve outcomes significantly. Who this helps: This benefits children with high-risk neuroblastoma and their families, as well as the doctors treating them.

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Researchers created a centralized information resource to help understand how COVID-19 affects children with cancer, as there was not enough data on this topic. The Global COVID-19 Observatory has three main parts: a library of resources, a registry to track cases, and a space for healthcare professionals to collaborate and share experiences. This initiative helps improve care and support for young cancer patients during the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with children diagnosed with cancer.

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This study focused on a species of caddisfly called Smicridea aequalis, examining its physical characteristics at different life stages and noting how common it is in certain regions, especially in the Amazon and Cerrado areas. Researchers found that this species can be easily identified, and males display a surprising variety of colors, which is unusual for caddisflies. Understanding this species helps improve wildlife studies and monitoring in its habitats. Who this helps: This helps researchers and environmental scientists monitoring freshwater ecosystems.

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This study looked at two new types of insects, specifically a group called Smicridea, found in Brazil's Atlantic Forest. Researchers identified and named these new species, called Smicridea (Rhyacophylax) boraceia and Smicridea (Rhyacophylax) dumasi, because they have unique physical features that set them apart from others. Discovering these species is important for understanding biodiversity and the health of the Atlantic Forest ecosystem. Who this helps: This helps scientists and conservationists working to protect and study biodiversity in the Atlantic Forest.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the lives of 2,776 medical students from nine different countries, focusing on their health and lifestyles while they adjusted to online learning. The findings revealed that 99% experienced changes in their education format, with 90% moving to online classes and many reporting worse habits around studying, sleeping, and eating—spending an average of 8.7 hours a day in front of screens. Additionally, many students reported more physical and mental health issues, such as back pain and irritability, which could affect their future careers as doctors. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators understand the challenges faced during the pandemic.

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This study examined three natural dyes—curcumin, bixin, and indigo—to see how they might be used in organic solar cells. The researchers found that curcumin is more structured than the other two dyes, and while bixin breaks down when heated, curcumin and indigo stay stable. All three dyes can conduct electrical charges, which is key for solar cells, and they also proved to be resistant to damage from UV light. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers working on solar energy technologies.

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This study looked at Chagas disease, caused by a parasite that affects about 8 million people worldwide. Researchers found that hybrid strains of this parasite had a higher percentage of dormant cells—15% in hybrid strains compared to only 5% in non-hybrid strains—indicating that certain genetic processes help the parasite enter a dormant state, which is related to drug resistance. Understanding how these dormant cells form is crucial for developing effective treatments for Chagas disease. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from Chagas disease by potentially leading to better treatments.

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This study looked at how some patients with relapsed neuroblastoma develop antibodies against a treatment called hu14.18K322A, which is a type of cancer-fighting drug known as a monoclonal antibody. Out of 38 patients, 9 had these pre-existing antibodies, and notably, only 4 of these patients did not see their cancer progress for 2.5 years without further treatment. This finding highlights that the presence of these antibodies may influence how well the therapy works, which is important for improving treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers understand which patients might benefit more from specific treatments.

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This study looked at how a mobile app called Listeo+ can help patients get ready for major surgeries that don't require an overnight hospital stay. Researchers found that about 25% of these surgeries are canceled because patients don’t follow preoperative instructions, and they aim to see if using the app can improve patient compliance and reduce cancellations. They expect that the app will not only help patients prepare better but also support healthcare professionals by allowing them to monitor patients' readiness in real-time. Who this helps: Patients undergoing major ambulatory surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the levels of harmful chemicals, like PCBs and DDTs, in the livers of Northern sea otters in Alaska from 1992 to 2010. It found that while some contaminants like PCBs might be decreasing overall, six otters had very high levels that could lead to health issues, such as liver disease. This research is important because it shows the ongoing impact of pollution on marine life and emphasizes the need to consider both the diet and health of sea otters when studying these chemicals. Who this helps: This benefits scientists, conservationists, and policymakers working to protect marine ecosystems.

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This study looked at whether certain genetic changes might increase the risk of osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in children. Researchers found that 2% of children with osteosarcoma had a specific genetic variant linked to a disease called Rothmund-Thomson syndrome, making it much more likely for them to develop this cancer compared to those without cancer. This is important because it highlights a new genetic risk factor for pediatric osteosarcoma, which could lead to better screening and early detection strategies. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their doctors by providing new information about genetic risks for bone cancer.

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This study looked at how certain imaging factors, called Image-Defined Risk Factors (IDRFs), can help doctors decide whether high-risk neuroblastoma patients need radiation therapy after surgery. Among 76 patients, those who had no IDRFs and removed more than 90% of the tumor had a perfect 3-year survival without local recurrence, while those with at least one IDRF or incomplete surgeries had lower survival rates of 77.8% and 14.4%, respectively. This is important because if these findings hold true, doctors might be able to safely reduce radiation treatment for some patients, lowering their exposure to unnecessary side effects. Who this helps: This helps high-risk neuroblastoma patients and their doctors.

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This study looked at two types of microperoxidases (MPs) made from iron and copper to see how they work with lipids. They found that while both forms interacted differently with certain lipid compounds, the copper version showed a pattern of activity that could mimic a natural enzyme responsible for breaking down harmful substances. This is important because it suggests new ways to use these proteins in technology, like in sensors or drug development. Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers working on medical and environmental technologies.

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This study looked at the health and safety conditions of informal workers, who make up a large part of the workforce globally but often don’t receive proper protection compared to formal workers. The research highlighted that local authorities play a crucial role in improving health and safety by addressing issues like water and sanitation. Successful examples from Brazil and Ghana show that recognizing informal workers as important contributors to the economy leads to better health outcomes, especially when these workers can organize and when health and safety teams are equipped to understand their needs. Who this helps: This helps informal workers and the communities they belong to.

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This study looked at how a combination of two drugs, gefitinib and irinotecan, can be given safely to children with tough-to-treat solid tumors. Out of 19 patients, three showed stable disease for two to four treatment cycles, and one patient had a complete response after 18 cycles of treatment. The findings are important because they show that this drug combination has manageable side effects while still being effective in fighting these aggressive cancers. Who this helps: This helps pediatric cancer patients who have few treatment options left.

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This study looked at how well parents can report working memory issues in children who have survived brain tumors compared to their siblings and other childhood cancer survivors. Researchers found that parents rated brain tumor survivors as having more working memory problems than the other groups, but the parent's assessments didn't reliably match up with tests measuring actual memory performance. Knowing how parents view their children's memory capabilities is important because it helps clinicians understand their needs better and improve care. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers working with childhood brain tumor survivors.

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This study looked at how well a computerized test called ImPACT can assess thinking abilities in teenagers who survived brain tumors. Researchers found that these survivors scored lower on tests measuring memory, processing speed, and reaction time compared to survivors of other cancers and their healthy siblings, indicating significant cognitive challenges. Specifically, brain tumor survivors performed worse in areas like recognition memory and working memory, suggesting they experience long-term effects on their thinking abilities after treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits childhood brain tumor survivors by providing a way to monitor and address their cognitive challenges.

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This study looked at how dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) runs in families by comparing the risk of DLB between the siblings of people diagnosed with DLB and those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers found that the siblings of those with DLB were more likely to develop DLB themselves, with a 2.29 times higher risk and a 2.32 times higher risk of experiencing visual hallucinations compared to siblings of Alzheimer’s patients. Understanding these familial patterns helps identify genetic factors linked to DLB and distinguishes it from Alzheimer’s disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients and their families by improving awareness of genetic risks and symptoms related to DLB.

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This study looks at how different working conditions affect the health of employees and their families. Researchers found that about 1,500 workers die each day due to dangerous jobs and related diseases, highlighting the serious health risks associated with jobs like child labor and precarious employment. Understanding these issues is important because it can guide policies to improve workplace conditions and health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits workers, families, and policymakers focused on improving job safety and health equity.

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This study looks at how different work conditions and employment policies influence health inequalities among workers. The researchers created a detailed model that shows how the relationships between employers, the government, and workers affect people's health based on their job situations. They believe that understanding these dynamics can help find effective ways to improve health outcomes for workers, particularly those in less favorable job conditions. Who this helps: This helps workers and policymakers who want to reduce health inequalities in the workplace.

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This study looked at how different working conditions and employment situations contribute to health inequalities among various groups of people, considering factors like social class, gender, and race. Researchers found that these inequalities arise from harmful working conditions, economic hardships, and psychological effects, highlighting that the way people are treated at work directly affects their health. Understanding these connections is crucial for creating effective policies to improve health outcomes for those in vulnerable positions. Who this helps: This benefits patients and policymakers focused on improving workplace health and equity.

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This study looked at how different types of work conditions—like unstable jobs, unemployment, informal work, forced labor, and child labor—affect people's health around the world. It found that many workers, especially in low-income countries, face poor job conditions that lead to serious health problems, but these issues often go unnoticed in research. The study highlights the need for better tracking and awareness of how these job situations impact health, emphasizing that unequal job conditions can greatly worsen health disparities. Who this helps: This research benefits workers, health agencies, and policymakers.

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This study looks at how different job types—like informal work, unemployment, and even child labor—affect health inequalities. It found that people in risky jobs face higher rates of physical and mental health issues due to tough working conditions and lack of job security. For example, precarious jobs can lead to serious health problems because of their demanding nature and lack of support. Who this helps: This research benefits workers in precarious employment, policymakers, and health professionals seeking to improve labor conditions and health outcomes.

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This paper looked at how certain job conditions over the past 35 years have worsened health inequalities among people. It found that government policies and corporate practices have led to more harmful working environments, making people less healthy. The study highlights ways to change policies to improve these poor job conditions and promote better health for everyone. Who this helps: This benefits workers and patients by promoting healthier work environments and reducing health disparities.

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This paper examines how job relationships and working conditions affect health differences among people. It highlights that improving employment practices can help reduce these health inequalities. By focusing on better job environments, the research aims to create policies that support healthier workplaces for everyone. Who this helps: This helps patients and workers by promoting better health through improved job conditions.

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This study looked at the genetics behind when Alzheimer's disease symptoms develop in families of Caribbean Hispanic descent. They found that the APOE-epsilon4 gene variant led to symptoms starting about three years earlier, and identified several specific chromosomal locations linked to age at onset, including 5q15 and 17q25.1, which may harbor additional genetic factors influencing Alzheimer's. Understanding these genetic markers can help researchers develop better strategies for managing and treating Alzheimer's disease. Who this helps: This helps patients and families affected by Alzheimer's, as well as researchers looking for treatments.

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This study looked at specific genes on chromosome 12p13 to understand their connection to late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Researchers examined genetic markers in families from North Europe and the Caribbean, finding strong links especially in the Caribbean groups, with two particular genetic variants (rs740850 and rs1060620) associated with Alzheimer's. This is important because identifying these genetic risk factors can help in understanding who might be at higher risk of developing Alzheimer's, ultimately aiding in prevention and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with late-onset Alzheimer's and their families.

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This study examined how dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer disease (AD) affect cognitive abilities in Caribbean Hispanic patients. Researchers tested 89 patients with DLB and 118 patients with AD from family groups, and 70 DLB and 157 AD patients from the general population. They found that patients with DLB had more severe difficulties with orientation and visual reasoning than those with AD; especially, those with two family members having DLB showed the worst memory issues. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and families dealing with DLB and AD by improving understanding of their differences and informing treatment approaches.

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This study looked at how many servicemen in the Brazilian Navy died from AIDS between 1991 and 1995, focusing on their military rank and job roles. Out of the 2,586 death certificates reviewed, 125 deaths (4.8%) were due to AIDS, with the highest rates among younger servicemen and those in lower ranks. The findings showed that certain job categories, such as management, secretarial, and janitorial roles, had much higher AIDS mortality rates, particularly among lower-ranking personnel. Who this helps: This research helps military leaders and health officials understand the impact of AIDS on servicemen, enabling better health strategies and support for affected individuals.

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This study looked at how experiences of racial discrimination relate to depression among adolescents aged 10 to 21 in Salvador, Brazil. It found that while the overall rate of major depression was 10.4%, the feeling of being discriminated against doubled the likelihood of experiencing major depression, regardless of skin color. This is important because it highlights that addressing perceptions of racial discrimination could be key to improving mental health in these young people. Who this helps: This research benefits adolescents experiencing racial discrimination and the mental health professionals who support them.

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This study looked at how much genetics affects the ability to think abstractly in Caribbean Latinos with family history of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found that 79.9% of the differences in abstract reasoning scores were due to genetic factors, but this dropped to 32.6% after considering education, which explained 40.8% of the difference. The study shows that while genetics play a big role in abstract reasoning, education is also very important, and that other genes beyond APOE-epsilon 4 are involved. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer’s and their families by highlighting the importance of education and genetic research in understanding cognitive abilities.

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This study looked at how a specific gene, called APOE epsilon4, affects the age when Alzheimer's disease starts in Caribbean Hispanics. Researchers found that people with familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD) began showing symptoms at an earlier age than those with sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (SAD). Specifically, those with the APOE epsilon4 gene who had FAD tended to develop symptoms significantly earlier; the difference was particularly notable in those who carried only one copy of the gene. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with a family history of Alzheimer’s and their doctors by providing insights into the timing of onset for the disease.

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This study looked at families from the Caribbean with a history of late-onset Alzheimer's disease to find new genetic areas linked to the disease. The researchers identified a specific location on chromosome 3 (3q28) that showed a strong connection to Alzheimer's, with a high score indicating significant evidence (LOD score of 3.09). They also found other promising regions, but 3q28 was the most important discovery, suggesting it may play a key role in understanding Alzheimer's in these families. Who this helps: This helps patients with familial Alzheimer's disease and their families by providing insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment options.

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This study looked at how smoking, noise exposure from work, and age together affect hearing loss in men working at a metal processing factory. Researchers found that all three factors combined had a stronger impact on hearing loss than each factor alone, with the most significant effects observed in younger adults aged 20-40 who smoked and were exposed to noise. Understanding these combined effects is important because it highlights the need for better hearing protection and smoking cessation programs in noisy work environments. Who this helps: This helps workers in noisy industries, especially young men who smoke.