DR. WILLIAM KEVIN HARRIS, D.O.

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This study looked at three techniques for managing patient movement during lung cancer radiation therapy: deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH), free breathing (FB), and respiratory gating (RG). It found that patients using DIBH received less radiation to healthy lung tissue (average lung dose was 408.2 cGy) compared to those using FB (569.8 cGy) or RG (519.6 cGy), while FB took less time overall for the treatment process. These results help doctors make better choices about which technique to use based on patient safety and treatment efficiency. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing lung cancer radiation therapy.

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This research looked at how effective ultrasound is for checking lymph nodes in patients with vulvar cancer, comparing it to traditional lab tests. The findings showed that ultrasound has a high accuracy, with a sensitivity (ability to correctly identify patients with cancer) of 88% and a specificity (ability to correctly identify patients without cancer) of 87%. This matters because it confirms that ultrasound is a reliable tool for early diagnosis, especially since it has a high negative predictive value of 95%, meaning it's very good at ruling out cancer when the ultrasound result is negative. Who this helps: This helps patients with vulvar cancer by providing a reliable method for monitoring their lymph nodes.

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This study looked at the survival rates of patients with advanced clear cell kidney cancer in New Zealand compared to those in Australia. Researchers found that Australian patients lived longer, with a median survival time of 56.17 months compared to the New Zealand patients who received less effective treatments and had a higher chance of death. This is important because it highlights the need for better access to life-saving cancer treatments in New Zealand. Who this helps: This helps kidney cancer patients in New Zealand and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to effectively introduce digital devices for mobility exercises in rehabilitation settings by training physiotherapists and changing the environment. Researchers found that all 27 participating physiotherapists successfully used the devices with their patients after receiving support, and they received more training than expected, totaling 122 hours. This is important because it shows that a well-planned strategy can help integrate technology into rehabilitation, likely improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients in rehabilitation programs benefit from enhanced mobility training.

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In this study, researchers looked at how using digital devices for exercise helps people in rehabilitation improve their movement and physical activity. They found that while all patients got regular care, the group using digital devices was able to do the recommended 30 minutes of exercise daily about 36% of the time over two weeks. This is important because it shows that this approach can work within usual hospital staffing and may lead to better recovery outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients in rehabilitation programs.

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This study focused on improving a system called AlignRT inBore, which is used in surface-guided radiotherapy (SGRT) for cancer treatment. The researchers developed a new method for daily quality checks that allows the system to work effectively without needing to recalibrate every day, establishing a consistent performance level with very little movement (less than 0.2 mm drift). They found that the timing accuracy for a specific breast treatment technique was 0.6 seconds, which can be improved further. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving breast cancer radiotherapy by ensuring more accurate treatment delivery.

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This study looked at suicide rates among construction workers in the U.S. in 2021 and found that construction workers have a much higher risk of suicide compared to other industries, with 17.9% of all reported suicide deaths coming from this group, even though they make up only 7.4% of the workforce. Almost all (97.8%) of these suicide deaths were among men, with the highest rates occurring in white, non-Hispanic, single individuals who completed high school. This is important because it highlights a pressing need for targeted mental health support and prevention strategies in the construction industry. Who this helps: This research helps construction workers and their employers by emphasizing the need for improved mental health resources.

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This study tested a new blood pressure monitor, the Uscom BP+, to see if it works accurately for children and teenagers when following specific medical standards. They found that the device provided accurate readings when using standard-sized cuffs on 95 participants, with very small discrepancies in measurements (generally within +/- 8 mmHg). However, using a wider cuff led to less reliable results, and movement during the test affected the accuracy of measurements. Overall, this device can be confidently used in medical settings for young patients, while the wider cuff option should be avoided. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with children and teenagers.

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Researchers developed a new method called gneSeqCOO to classify a type of cancer known as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) by analyzing RNA from tumor samples. In tests with over 1,000 samples, this new method showed strong agreement with an existing test, suggesting it can accurately identify cancer subtypes even when there’s only one type present. This is important because it could improve how doctors predict patient outcomes and reduce the need for extra testing. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by providing more accurate cancer classifications.

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This study examined how well artificial intelligence (AI) can create synthetic CT images from CBCT scans for patients undergoing abdominal radiotherapy. The researchers found that using two training methods improved the quality of synthetic CT images, leading to a mean absolute error of around 41 units for the better-performing model, which indicates a high level of accuracy in mimicking real CT scans. This is important because accurate imaging ensures patients receive the correct radiation dose during treatment, which enhances treatment effectiveness and safety. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing abdominal cancer treatments by improving the accuracy of their radiation therapy.

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This study looked at how different ways of measuring reading speed can help track changes in vision over time in people with geographic atrophy, a type of vision loss due to aging. The researchers analyzed data from nearly 940 participants and found that two measures—one based on reading the largest print sizes (Reading Accessibility Index) and another on the fastest three sentences read—were better at showing the decline in reading ability compared to other common measures. This is important because it can lead to better ways to monitor the progression of vision loss in patients and how they respond to treatments. Who this helps: Patients with geographic atrophy and their doctors.

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Researchers conducted a multi-center study using a specialized MRI technique called hyperpolarized Xe MRI to better understand the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This approach allows for detailed, non-invasive imaging of the lungs and may detect changes in patients more accurately than traditional lung function tests. The study aimed to create standard procedures for using this technology across different medical centers, showing that with these protocols in place, trials can be more efficient and effective. Who this helps: This benefits patients with COPD by paving the way for more accurate monitoring and treatment options.

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This research focused on improving the quality control process for a type of imaging called 4DCT, which tracks moving organs, like the lungs, during scans. The study found that using a specific tool, called the Catphan, and automation reduced the time for analyzing the scans to about 20 minutes—more than an 80% improvement over traditional methods. This matters because it makes the process more efficient and consistent, ensuring better imaging quality and accuracy in healthcare settings. Who this helps: Patients undergoing scans for moving organs and healthcare providers managing imaging quality.

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This study looked at a new method called nonstop gated cone-beam computed tomography (ngCBCT) to improve imaging for lung cancer treatment that requires precise breathing control. The ngCBCT technique reduces scan time significantly and lowers radiation exposure while still providing high-quality images, outperforming traditional methods. With the new approach, the imaging quality was much better, particularly when using specific algorithms for reconstruction, aiming to make the imaging process faster and safer for patients. Who this helps: Patients undergoing lung cancer treatment.

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This study examined how long patients with a specific type of heart valve infection, caused by methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), should be treated with antibiotics. Researchers looked at 34 patients over three years and found that treating them for an average of 28 days resulted in only one patient having a relapse and one death, both accounting for 2.9% of the group. This is important because it shows that shorter antibiotic courses can be effective and safe for certain patients, reducing the duration of treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with MSSA tricuspid valve infections, especially those who inject drugs.

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This study looked at the levels of two important omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, in different dietary groups, including vegans, vegetarians, pesco-vegetarians, and non-vegetarians, to see how their diets affected these levels. The research found that vegans had an average omega-3 index of 3.7, while vegetarians had 3.9, pesco-vegetarians had 5.7, and non-vegetarians had 5.0, indicating that vegans and vegetarians had significantly lower levels of these fatty acids compared to those who consume fish. The study highlights the need for vegans and vegetarians to consider taking algae-derived supplements to improve their omega-3 levels, as their dietary intake was far below the recommended amounts. Who this helps: This helps vegans and vegetarians who need to increase their omega-3 fatty acid levels.

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This study looked at a new way to take X-ray images for lung cancer treatment that can save time and reduce radiation exposure. The new method, called nonstop gated CBCT (ngCBCT), takes about 1 minute for a scan, compared to traditional methods that take between 1.8 to 5 minutes. Additionally, the ngCBCT uses significantly less radiation—between 26.7% and 60.1% of what traditional methods use—while still producing high-quality images. Who this helps: This benefits lung cancer patients by making their treatment more comfortable and safer.

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This study looked at a new treatment for advanced penile cancer, specifically combining two drugs: dostarlimab and niraparib. Researchers found that if more than 13% of patients respond positively to the treatment in the first group of 15, they will recruit even more patients to test its effectiveness further. This is important because it could provide a new option for patients whose cancer has not responded to standard treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced penile cancer who have run out of effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how patients with a serious heart infection called infective endocarditis (IE) were treated using either intravenous (IV) antibiotics or a mix of IV and oral antibiotics. Out of 236 patients, those who received partial oral therapy had similar rates of infection relapse and death within 90 days as those who only got IV treatment—0.7% versus 2.2% for infection relapse and 2.8% versus 6.5% for overall mortality. This matters because it shows that patients can safely transition to oral antibiotics, making treatment easier and possibly more convenient without harming their health. Who this helps: This helps patients who need treatment for infective endocarditis and the doctors managing their care.

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This study looked at patients with a type of bleeding in the brain called intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) to see how the location of the bleed (deep in the brain vs. other areas) affects the risk of having a stroke or heart problem after minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Researchers found that 80.7% of the 1,470 patients had deep ICH, with those patients facing a higher risk of ischemic events (2.3 times more likely) compared to others, although the surgery did not seem to affect this risk. However, if surgery was successful in reducing the size of the hematoma to less than 15 mL, it led to better outcomes for patients one year later, regardless of whether they experienced an ischemic event. Who this helps: This helps patients with deep brain bleeds and their doctors understand the risks and benefits of surgery.

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This study looked at how some patients with cholangiocarcinoma, a type of bile duct cancer, develop resistance to FGFR inhibitors, a treatment that can improve their outcomes. Researchers analyzed samples from 138 patients, finding that 65% of those who responded well to treatment had specific mutations in the FGFR2 gene, compared to just 10% of those who did not benefit. Understanding these resistance patterns is critical for developing better targeted therapies and improving treatment options for cancer patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with cholangiocarcinoma and their doctors by providing insights for more effective treatments.

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This research paper outlines guidelines for treating biliary tract cancers, which include gallbladder cancer and two types of cholangiocarcinoma. The experts recommend specific treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation for patients with these cancers, especially for those in advanced stages. This is important because it helps ensure that patients receive the best possible care based on the latest research and treatment options. Who this helps: Patients with biliary tract cancers and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a rare type of cancer called primary appendiceal carcinoma, which can spread to nearby organs like the bladder and rectum. In the case discussed, a 75-year-old man, who showed no symptoms, tested positive for this cancer using a screening test, and further imaging revealed it originated from the appendix, affecting the surrounding areas. The findings highlight how important it is to use MRI before surgery to accurately understand the cancer's origin and spread to improve treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps patients diagnosed with rare cancers and their doctors in planning effective treatment.

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Researchers studied a specific type of yeast called RS1, which comes from rice seeds. They sequenced its genome, finding it has around 18.3 million base pairs and 6,817 genes that code for proteins. Understanding this yeast is important because it plays a significant role in the community of microorganisms found on rice seeds, which could impact rice growth and health. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study looked at how consistent the responses were from school principals and health education teachers in a survey about school health policies across two time points in 2020. The findings showed that while the reliability was moderate for principals (with a kappa score of 0.49 for 191 questions) and strong for teachers (with a score of 0.65 for 260 questions), a significant majority—60.7% of principals and 91.1% of teachers—had reliable answers. This is important because it means the School Health Profiles can be trusted by schools and health agencies to accurately track and improve school health practices. Who this helps: This helps school administrators and health educators maintain and enhance health programs in schools.

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This study looked at how the size of a brain bleed (called a hematoma) affects the chances of having a stroke afterward. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,400 patients and found that those with larger hematomas (17.3 mL or more) had a 2.5 times higher risk of experiencing a stroke compared to those with smaller hematomas. This is important because it highlights that larger brain bleeds can lead to more severe health problems, which can help doctors better predict and manage patient care. Who this helps: Patients with brain bleeds and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new way to deliver radiation therapy for lung cancer using devices called electromagnetic transponders that are implanted near the tumor. Researchers found that this method was successful in 96% of patients, meaning they could precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Out of 48 patients, only a few experienced serious side effects, and the treatment was generally deemed safe, with most patients completing their therapy. Who this helps: This helps lung cancer patients by providing a more precise and effective treatment option.

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This study looked at how well a new treatment method using yttrium-90 plus chemotherapy works for patients with liver cancer that started from colorectal cancer and didn't respond to initial chemotherapy. The results showed that among carefully selected patients, the new treatment improved their cancer progression-free survival (9.4 months versus 7.6 months with standard chemotherapy) and quality of life duration (5.7 months versus 3.9 months). It’s important because this approach can lead to better outcomes for certain patients, making treatment more effective. Who this helps: Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who have not responded to earlier treatments.

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This study looked at a new way to create MRI images during cancer treatment for abdominal tumors, using artificial intelligence and images from another type of scan called 4D CBCT. The researchers found that their method produced MRI images with a very small error rate (0.012±0.001 on one measure), showing that this technique could be accurate enough for use in real treatments. This matters because it could make radiation therapy more effective and accessible for patients with abdominal tumors, especially in places that can't afford expensive MRI machines. Who this helps: Patients undergoing radiation therapy for abdominal tumors.

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This research looked at improving single photon emitters in a material called hexagonal boron nitride, which are essential for future quantum technologies. They found that using special gold-coated pillars with an alumina layer significantly boosted the brightness of these emitters, achieving a rate of over 5 million light particles per second and a yield of 29%. These advances help create more effective and scalable quantum information systems, which can enhance various technologies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies developing quantum technologies.

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This study looked at a procedure called bedside transfontanelle drain placement, which is used to treat fluid collections in the brains of infants. Out of 28 babies treated between 2013 and 2023, 19 didn't need any further surgeries after the procedure, and the average amount of fluid drained was about 590 mL over 3.5 days. This finding is important because it shows that this method can effectively prevent the need for more invasive surgeries, allowing for quicker and safer treatment in infants. Who this helps: This helps infants with brain fluid collections and their doctors.

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The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) conducted a survey to understand the workplace environment related to equity, diversity, and inclusion among its members. Out of 5,500 members invited, 1,385 participated, revealing that while many felt the workplace was welcoming, 17% had experienced or seen microaggressions, and a majority (34% to 60%) felt limited in their opportunities for involvement. Women and members from outside the U.S. and Canada reported feeling less included than their peers, highlighting the need for improvement in making the AAPM a more supportive environment for everyone. Who this helps: This benefits medical physicists, especially women and those from diverse backgrounds.

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This study looks at how certain proteins released by plant pathogens—like bacteria, fungi, and nematodes—attack plants by interfering with their natural defense systems. Researchers found that these proteins, called nuclear effectors, target important processes inside plant cells, particularly in their nuclei, which are crucial for plant health. By understanding how these effectors function, scientists can better develop strategies to protect crops and improve yields, which is vital for global food security. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to protect crops from disease.

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This study looked at a protein called MoHTR3 from a rice-infecting fungus that helps the fungus overcome the plant's defenses. Researchers found that when they modified the fungus to produce more MoHTR3, rice plants showed fewer signs of infection, including less damage and lower levels of harmful substances like hydrogen peroxide. This matters because it reveals how the fungus evolves to manipulate rice plants' defense systems, which can lead to better strategies for protecting crops from diseases like rice blast. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists working to improve rice crop resilience.

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This study investigated how improving the accuracy of clinical coding in outpatient hysteroscopy clinics can boost departmental income and support nurse development. The researchers found common coding errors that could be easily fixed, leading to better coding accuracy and increased annual funding for the department. This improvement allowed for restructuring that funded the training of a new hysteroscopy nurse, ultimately enhancing patient care. Who this helps: Patients and nursing staff in outpatient hysteroscopy clinics.

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This study looked at the levels of critical metals, like cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, in groundwater near two sites where dredged materials were dumped. It found that at both locations, metal concentrations were significantly higher than in most natural water sources, with cobalt and nickel levels exceeding 1 mg per liter and rare earth elements exceeding 3 mg per liter. Understanding these metal levels is important because recovering these metals from groundwater could reduce disposal costs and provide additional domestic resources. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists, resource management agencies, and industries interested in metal recovery.

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This study looked at how aggressive medical treatment affected the management of risk factors for strokes in Black and non-Black patients with a specific type of artery disease. Researchers found that at the start of the study, Black patients had higher levels of hypertension (95% compared to 87.5% in non-Black patients) and diabetes (52.9% compared to 39.7%), but after one year of treatment, the differences in blood pressure and exercise levels between the two groups had nearly disappeared. This is important because it shows that strong medical management can help reduce health disparities, making care more equal for different racial groups. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those from Black communities at risk for strokes.

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This study looked at how a specific plant lipid called lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) boosts plant immunity against harmful pathogens. Researchers found that applying LPE to plants made them more resistant to diseases caused by fungi, including Botrytis cinerea and Cochliobolus heterostrophus. Specifically, plants treated with LPE showed enhanced defense mechanisms and better management of reactive oxygen species, which are important for fighting off these diseases. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists looking to improve crop resilience.

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This study looked at whether small electromagnetic devices, placed near lung tumors, can effectively track tumor position and lung inflation during a specific type of lung cancer treatment. Researchers analyzed 219 imaging tests and found that while the devices reliably tracked tumor positions—showing an average difference of only 0.13 cm between the devices and the tumors—only 59% of lung inflation measurements matched closely during treatment compared to the initial scans, suggesting inconsistencies in lung volume. This matters because accurate tracking of tumor position can improve treatment outcomes, but the variable lung inflation could complicate the effectiveness of the therapy. Who this helps: This benefits lung cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.

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This study looked at the mental health of male construction workers in the U.S., revealing that nearly 30% experience psychological distress and about 2.5% have thoughts of suicide in the past year. Younger workers, those who work part-time, and those missing work due to health issues are more likely to have serious mental health problems. The study found that using illicit opioids and having alcohol dependence significantly increased the chance of suicidal thoughts, especially among those with severe psychological distress—who were 33 times more likely to consider suicide than those with minimal distress. Who this helps: This research benefits male construction workers by highlighting the need for better mental health support and preventative measures in the workplace.

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This study looked at how a protein called MPK4 affects the life and death of specific cells in plants, which are necessary for reproduction. The researchers found that when MPK4 is disrupted, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase, causing these cells to die too soon. This finding, showing that MPK4 and another protein called SUMM2 work together to control cell death, is important because it helps us understand how plants can balance their immune responses with the need to reproduce. Who this helps: This helps plant biologists and agricultural researchers improve crop yields by managing plant immunity and reproduction.

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This research paper focuses on the side effects of immunotherapy for cancer, specifically looking at immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The authors explain that while immunotherapy greatly helps fight cancer, it can also harm healthy tissue, leading to issues similar to autoimmune diseases. Recent advancements in managing these side effects, such as using fewer steroids and developing new treatment options, have improved patient care and quality of life during cancer treatment. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients receiving immunotherapy and their doctors.

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This study focused on a new treatment for ovarian cancer using special nanoparticles that can help reprogram certain immune cells (called tumor-associated macrophages) to fight tumors better. The researchers found that mice treated with these nanoparticles showed a significant reduction in tumor size and improved immune responses, indicating that the therapy was effective. For example, in one mouse model, the treatment resulted in a notable decrease in tumor burden and a healthier immune cell environment, without causing any harm to the mice. Who this helps: This helps ovarian cancer patients by potentially improving treatment options.

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This study looks at how immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are being used to treat advanced clear-cell kidney cancer, the most common type of this disease. Researchers found that combinations of drugs like pembrolizumab with axitinib or lenvatinib have been approved by the FDA and are the main treatment options for all patient risk groups, while other combinations are used for patients with higher risk. Despite some improvements in patient outcomes, many still face treatment-resistant cancer, highlighting the need for ongoing research into new therapies. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced clear-cell kidney cancer.

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Researchers studied how glucose is transported and used in the brains of rats with tumors compared to healthy rats using a special MRI technique. They found that glucose transport was significantly higher in tumor tissue, with a maximum rate of 7.1 µmol/min/mL for tumors versus 3.2 µmol/min/mL for healthy tissue. This information is important because it helps us understand how brain tumors may require more energy, which could assist in developing better treatments. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on brain tumor treatments.

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This study looked at how critical illnesses, like severe injuries or illnesses requiring intensive hospital care, change social factors that affect health, such as money, education, housing, and social connections. Researchers interviewed 86 patients and caregivers across the USA, UK, and Australia and found that many experienced negative financial changes, like job loss or reduced income, which made it harder to access necessary healthcare and led to more mental health issues. Understanding these effects is important because it highlights the need for better support for patients' social and financial situations after they leave the hospital. Who this helps: Patients recovering from critical illness and their families.

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This study explored the feelings and experiences of critical care patients and their caregivers during recovery after being in the ICU. Researchers conducted 86 interviews and found that both groups faced significant emotional challenges and adjustments, such as a sense of losing their former selves and dealing with caregiver burden. They also gathered various improvement ideas, like better education for families and peer support groups, to enhance recovery experiences. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have survived critical illnesses and their caregivers.

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This study looked at blood markers related to heart artery disease (atherosclerosis) in 665 patients, mostly around 56 years old. Researchers found that triglyceride-rich low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is strongly linked to the development of atherosclerosis, with more than 95% of their tests showing this connection. This is important because measuring these triglyceride-rich LDL particles may help doctors better understand and treat heart disease. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of heart disease and their doctors.