DR. WM. DENNIS NEWTON, M.D.

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This study looked at how low levels of a protein called albumin, which can indicate malnutrition, affect the risk of infections after foot and ankle surgeries. Researchers examined data from 500 patients and found that those with low albumin levels were more likely to develop superficial infections—about 2% of the low albumin group had infections compared to nearly 1% of those with normal levels. However, these patients did not have higher rates of hospital readmission or needing more surgeries afterward. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors caring for patients with foot and ankle issues, particularly those at risk of malnutrition.

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This study looked at whether patients who used opioids before foot and ankle surgery had more complications afterward. Out of 326 patients, those who had used opioids before surgery faced complications 29% of the time, compared to just 10% for those who had not used opioids. Additionally, patients who had used opioids were also more likely to continue using them post-surgery and had longer hospital stays. Who this helps: This information helps doctors better understand the risks for patients who use opioids before surgery.

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This study looked at high-pressure injection injuries to the hand, often caused by tools like pressure washers and paint sprayers, between 2012 and 2021. Researchers found around 15,307 cases, with most injuries happening on weekends, especially Sundays, and in late spring and summer. Notably, injuries from paint caused infections nearly six times more often than those from pressure washers (23.7% vs. 3.7%), although pressure washer injuries were more common overall. Who this helps: This information is helpful for patients using pressure washers and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how animals are treated in Australian aged care facilities from the perspective of experienced dog trainers who have worked in these places. The trainers highlighted serious problems, such as dogs being frightened and even one case of a dog being accidentally poisoned, showing that the welfare of animals is often neglected. Improving animal care and creating clearer guidelines for safe interactions between residents and animals are essential steps that need to be taken. Who this helps: This benefits both animals in care facilities and the residents who interact with them.

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This study looked at the costs of a surgery called midfoot arthrodesis, which is done to treat midfoot arthritis, by analyzing over 1,300 cases from South Carolina. The average cost for this procedure was around $54,300, with most expenses coming from surgical supplies and operating room use. This matters because understanding these costs can help hospitals and surgeons find ways to make the surgery more affordable for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by identifying cost-saving opportunities in surgery.

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This study focused on a harmful fungus that causes serious infections in people with weakened immune systems. Researchers created a detailed model of the fungus's metabolism, which revealed unique traits that help it survive and thrive, especially in the brain. They also identified specific genes that could be targeted for new antifungal drugs, which is crucial since this pathogen poses a significant health risk. Who this helps: Patients with weakened immune systems and doctors treating fungal infections.

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This paper examines how accepting homosexuality as a normal part of human sexuality conflicts with the views of gender critical feminists, who oppose theories that question traditional ideas about sex and gender. The author argues that if homosexuality is considered valid, it creates contradictions in gender critical feminism's stance, such as weakening their beliefs about sex being more important than gender. These insights matter because they reveal tensions within feminist thought regarding how identities are constructed and understood in the context of sexual orientation and gender identity. Who this helps: This benefits gender critical feminists and those interested in the intersections of sexuality and gender theory.

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This study focused on a dangerous fungus that causes serious infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Researchers created a detailed model of the fungus's metabolism, identifying 890 genes and predicting 96 genes that could be targets for new antifungal drugs. Their findings show an 85% accuracy in predicting how this fungus grows and survives, which is crucial for developing effective treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients with weakened immune systems and doctors treating fungal infections.

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This study created a new plan for the Family Medicine Certification Exam that starts in January 2025. Researchers surveyed 2,000 family doctors about 202 clinical activities, finding out how often they occur and their potential risks, resulting in a breakdown of what subjects will be tested and how much each will count on the exam. This matters because it ensures that the exam reflects the actual work family doctors do, prioritizing what’s most important for patient safety. Who this helps: Patients and family doctors.

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This study examined nearly 8,000 articles published from 1993 to 2023 in orthopedic research to find out which topics are most commonly discussed. It found that the most frequent subjects include arthroscopic shoulder surgery, treatments for meniscus injuries, and the design aspects of total knee replacements. Between 2020 and 2023, interest in arthroscopic shoulder surgery and total knee replacement designs grew, while topics like ankle instability lost popularity. Who this helps: This research benefits orthopedic doctors and surgeons by highlighting current trends in their field.

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This study looked at whether having low levels of a protein called albumin (hypoalbuminemia) affects the recovery of patients after total ankle replacement surgery. Researchers analyzed data from 710 patients and found that those with low albumin levels did not have higher rates of complications, readmissions, or the need for additional surgeries within 30 days after surgery compared to those with normal albumin levels. This matters because it shows that even patients who are malnourished can safely undergo this type of surgery without increased risks. Who this helps: Patients undergoing total ankle replacement surgery.

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This study examined how changes in residency program requirements for scholarly work affect the research output of family medicine faculty and residents from 2016 to 2021. It found that publications in respected journals increased from 505 to 3,617 and conference presentations went from 4,673 to 13,842 during this period. These results show that stricter residency requirements for scholarship likely led to more research activity, which is important for improving the quality of training and care in family medicine. Who this helps: This helps patients and family medicine residents by enhancing the quality of medical training and research.

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This study examined how well the INFINITY total ankle implant works over two years after surgery, focusing on patient experiences and complications. Out of 143 patients who received the implant, 97.8% still had their implant after two years, and 11.5% had to undergo another surgery, with only 2.7% needing a replacement. The findings show that patients felt better overall after the surgery, with those having less severe arthritis reporting more improvement. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with severe ankle arthritis considering surgery, as well as the doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at how using opioids before surgery affects recovery in patients getting ankle joint surgeries. Researchers examined 190 patients and found that those who used opioids before their surgery were more likely to continue using them afterward and faced higher rates of complications—12.5% had infections compared to 3.3% for non-users—and were also more likely to need another surgery, with 22.5% of opioid users facing reoperations versus 10.7% of non-users. This matters because it suggests that patients who use opioids before these surgeries may have a more difficult recovery and face more health issues. Who this helps: This information helps patients considering ankle surgeries and their doctors in planning safer treatment approaches.

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This research studied a specific surgical technique called scapholunate reconstruction, which is used to treat wrist injuries when the bones can be aligned properly and there is no severe damage. The procedure helps stabilize two wrist bones (the scaphoid and lunate) and aims to preserve movement in the wrist. Results showed that after surgery, patients generally had 55% to 75% of the range of motion and approximately 65% of grip strength compared to their uninjured wrist, but many faced some permanent stiffness and complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from wrist injuries, especially those who want to maintain wrist movement.

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This study focused on a rare heart disease called transthyretin amyloidosis, where abnormal proteins build up in the heart, making it stiff and less effective over time. In the case presented, doctors noticed the disease had progressed significantly before it was diagnosed, leading to serious heart issues. Understanding this late diagnosis is important because it highlights the need for earlier detection to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart conditions, especially those at risk for amyloidosis.

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The study looked at how animals are managed in Australian residential aged care facilities, which have used animal-assisted interventions for over 40 years to help residents. Researchers found that while most facilities had some animal policies in place, they often lacked important details about safety measures, like hand washing and animal welfare. This is important because it shows that better guidelines are needed to protect both residents and animals. Who this helps: This helps residents of aged care facilities, their families, and the staff involved in animal programs.

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This study looked at how animals are used in residential aged-care facilities in Australia to help reduce loneliness among elderly residents. It found that between 1990 and 2018, only nine relevant documents on this topic were published, highlighting a lack of strong, consistent policies to ensure resident and animal safety—as most facilities rely on outside providers for this support. This matters because better policies could enhance the safety and well-being of both residents and animals in these environments. Who this helps: This helps elderly residents in care facilities and the staff who look after them.

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This paper discusses the debate over how we understand gender, specifically arguing that the distinction between male and female comes from both the body and the soul, contrary to the view that it only stems from the soul. The author defends Aquinas's viewpoint, stating that there is a unified human nature that allows for the expression of gender, which can accommodate situations like intersex conditions. This is important because it offers a more comprehensive explanation of gender that takes into account biological realities. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those dealing with gender identity issues and intersex conditions.

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This study focused on the Dakota skipper butterfly, a threatened species in the Great Plains. Researchers created statistical maps to understand where these butterflies are found and found that they are more likely to be in varied grasslands with well-drained soils. They discovered that as you go further north in the Great Plains, the chances of finding Dakota skippers decrease, and they provided guidance for how to effectively monitor and potentially locate new colonies. Who this helps: This research benefits conservationists and ecologists working to protect threatened butterfly populations.

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The study looked at how previous infections with dengue or Zika viruses affected the severity of later infections with the other virus in macaques. Researchers found that having had one virus infection did not change how severe the secondary infection was; all animals remained asymptomatic and did not show significant changes in their blood. These findings are important because they suggest that past infections with either virus might not have the impact on health that some had feared. Who this helps: This helps patients and health professionals by clarifying the relationship between dengue and Zika virus infections.

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This study focused on understanding a protein called DdlR in the bacterium Clostridioides difficile, which plays a key role in producing an important building block for its cell wall. Researchers found that DdlR is crucial for activating the genes needed to make this building block - if DdlR doesn't work, the bacteria can't grow at all. Specifically, when they removed the ddlR gene, the bacteria couldn't thrive, highlighting how critical DdlR is for their survival. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying C. difficile and potential treatments for infections caused by this bacterium.

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This study looked at how the Zika virus behaves during infections in pregnant and non-pregnant monkeys and how it spreads through mosquitoes. Researchers created a special version of the Zika virus with unique genetic "barcodes," allowing them to track different versions of the virus over time. They found that the virus population changed very little during the infection and remained stable even for 67 days in a pregnant monkey. Understanding these dynamics is important for controlling Zika virus transmission and its effects during pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and researchers working to manage Zika virus outbreaks and protect pregnant women.

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This study looked at how often primary care doctors refer patients to specialists and how residency programs teach these doctors about referrals. Researchers found that referral rates varied widely, with some programs sending 7% of their patients to specialists and others sending up to 31%. Only 23% of programs taught a formal way to make referrals, highlighting a need for better training in this area to help control healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps patients by improving the referral process and ensuring they receive appropriate care.

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Researchers studied how the Zika virus spreads through mouth and throat contact in monkeys. They found that when they applied a high dose of the virus directly to the tonsils of the monkeys, the virus appeared in their blood within two days. However, when they tested the saliva from infected monkeys on other uninfected monkeys, those ones did not get infected, indicating that there's a low risk of spreading the virus through saliva. Who this helps: This helps doctors and public health officials understand the transmission risks of Zika virus.

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This study looked at how getting infected with the Zika virus through mosquito bites affects its behavior and spread in rhesus monkeys. The researchers found that when monkeys were infected this way, the virus took longer to reach its highest levels and mostly stayed in certain tissues like the liver and reproductive organs. This work is important because it helps scientists better understand Zika infections in humans, which usually show mild symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients and researchers studying Zika virus infections.

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This study looks at improving the effectiveness of medical training programs in North Carolina. Researchers found that by monitoring results like where doctors choose to work and how many accept Medicaid and Medicare patients, the system could better support healthcare needs. They suggest adjusting the financial support for medical residents based on these outcomes to ensure that more doctors stay and practice in the state. Who this helps: This benefits patients in North Carolina by ensuring more doctors are available to meet their healthcare needs.

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This study looked at how providing support to small primary care practices in North Carolina to use electronic health records (EHR) and improve their quality of care could impact diabetes management. They found that patients in practices receiving this support had a 19% increase in achieving good diabetes control (with a hemoglobin A1c level below 7%), and the number of patients with poorly controlled diabetes dropped significantly. This is important because better diabetes management can lead to fewer health complications for patients. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes and their primary care doctors benefit from improved care practices.

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This research focused on how Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) interacts with human proteins to take control of the host's cellular processes, particularly in the context of gene expression. The study identified over 500 interactions between the virus and human proteins, revealing that a specific KSHV protein helps the virus to hijack the cell's machinery necessary for activating late gene expressions, which is crucial for the virus's lifecycle. Understanding these interactions is important because it helps clarify how KSHV contributes to cancers associated with AIDS and may uncover potential strategies for treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with AIDS-related cancers and the doctors treating them.

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This study focused on lung cancer cells with a specific mutation that affects the EGFR gene. Researchers found that when these cancer cells were treated with drugs targeting the mutated EGFR, the cells activated a survival mechanism involving a protein called NF-κB, which allowed them to persist despite treatment. By using a drug that blocks NF-κB, they were able to improve the effectiveness and duration of the initial treatment, suggesting that combining EGFR and NF-κB inhibitors could lead to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps lung cancer patients, especially those with EGFR mutations, by potentially improving their treatment responses.

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This article examines how widespread use of contraception affects societal beliefs about sex, human life, and morality, arguing that it leads to an acceptance of abortion and other harmful practices. The author, referencing Pope John Paul II, emphasizes that contraception and abortion are closely linked, both contributing to a negative shift in cultural attitudes. These changes can be profoundly damaging to society by promoting a culture that undervalues life. Who this helps: This helps patients and society by encouraging deeper conversations about the value of life and ethical considerations surrounding contraception and abortion.

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This study explores how North Carolina is working to enhance the quality of health care amidst significant changes in the health system. It highlights programs and partnerships that have been successful in improving care over the years and points out the need to focus on measuring and advancing quality moving forward. Overall, the research found that while progress has been made, there are still areas for improvement to ensure better health outcomes for all residents. Who this helps: This helps patients in North Carolina by aiming to provide them with better health care.

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This study investigated whether obesity is increasing in animals living near humans, similar to the obesity crisis seen in people. Researchers analyzed over 20,000 animals from eight species, including primates, rodents, and pets, and found that average body weights have been rising consistently across these groups. For example, all studied populations showed a trend of weight increase, with a very low chance that this trend occurred by random chance. Understanding these trends in animals may help identify new factors contributing to obesity in both humans and animals. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying obesity, healthcare providers, and animal welfare organizations.

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This study examined the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and how consumers often misunderstand the differences between them. It found that different types of omega-3s have varying effects on health, and many consumers may buy products that don’t provide the benefits they expect because they lack accurate information. This matters because consumers could waste money on supplements that aren't effective for their health needs. Who this helps: This helps consumers, especially those seeking better health outcomes through dietary supplements.

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This study examined how a group of 25 primary care teaching sites in the Southeastern U.S. worked together to improve their practices using the Patient-centered Medical Home (PCMH) model over a 20-month period. As a result, 12 sites (48%) received recognition for their progress, and many participants reported significant improvements in their practice transformation efforts. This is important because it shows that collaboration among residency programs can lead to better care for patients, even with a limited investment of resources. Who this helps: Patients and doctors in primary care settings.

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This study looked at ways to enhance care for patients with diabetes and congestive heart failure in teaching hospitals across North and South Carolina. Over three years, the quality of care for diabetes improved slightly, but there was a remarkable 380% decrease in hospitalizations for heart failure. This matters because better training for medical residents can lead to less hospital visits and lower healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic illnesses and the doctors who care for them.

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This study looked at the relationship between eating fish and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). It found that consuming fish may help lower the chances of getting AD, which affects many elderly people—projected to reach 104 million cases by 2050. If eating fish can delay the onset of AD by even one year, it could reduce the total number of cases by 10%, which highlights the importance of seafood in our diets as a potential preventative measure. Who this helps: This benefits elderly patients and their families, as well as healthcare providers focused on dementia care.

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This study looked at how useful a special heart imaging test called transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is for stroke patients over 50 years old. Among 188 patients with unclear reasons for their strokes, 66% were older than 50, and TEE showed that 12.8% of these older patients had complex heart issues, compared to none of the younger patients. The findings suggest that 22.4% of older patients needed anticoagulation treatment based on their heart conditions revealed by the TEE, highlighting its importance in diagnosing and treating strokes in this age group. Who this helps: This helps patients over 50 who have had a stroke and may need specific cardiac treatment.

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This study looks at how federal funding through Title VII has shaped family medicine education over the past 30 years. The findings show that these grants helped establish family medicine in almost every medical school, increased attention to care for underserved populations, and improved diversity in the health professions. However, as funding decreased, there were negative impacts on clinical missions and educational programs that now face risks. Who this helps: Patients and communities without adequate access to healthcare.

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This study looked at the effects of calorie restriction on energy use in rhesus monkeys over several years. Researchers found that male monkeys on a calorie-restricted diet burned about 568 calories a day, which is significantly lower than the 630 calories burned by monkeys who ate normally. The study also revealed that energy use decreased with age, but calorie restriction did not change this decline. Who this helps: This research benefits both scientists studying aging and doctors looking for ways to manage age-related health issues in humans.

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This study looked at intimate partner violence (IPV) among Latinas in rural North Carolina, involving 1,212 women. It found that 19.5% of the women had experienced IPV, which is similar to rates seen in non-Latina women. Latinas who suffered from IPV often had less social support and were more likely to have children living with them, highlighting the need for tailored support services for Latina immigrants dealing with this issue. Who this helps: This helps victims of intimate partner violence, particularly Latina women and their families.