ANDREW CHUNG-MING SHIH, M.D.

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This study looked at how to better assess the severity of plagiocephaly, a condition in which an infant's head shape is uneven. Researchers created a new measurement tool called the Craniofacial Asymmetry Index (CAI) and found that it perfectly matched the evaluations made by craniofacial surgeons, while traditional methods produced more varied results. This means that using the CAI can provide a clearer and more reliable way to determine how severe the condition is, ensuring infants receive appropriate treatment. Who this helps: This helps infants with plagiocephaly and their doctors.

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This study examined how certain compounds can improve the function of uterine cells that become damaged in conditions like endometriosis and infertility. Researchers found that flavonoid compounds like quercetin and fisetin, as well as dasatinib, significantly improved the ability of these cells to support embryo implantation—an important step for successful pregnancy—without harming the cells themselves. All tested flavonoids and dasatinib also reduced the movement of these problematic cells, suggesting they could help manage conditions affecting women's reproductive health. Who this helps: This benefits patients with endometriosis and infertility, as well as healthcare providers treating these conditions.

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This study looked at the differences in the physical properties of blood clots in veins after 7 days compared to 14 days. Researchers used a new model in pigs to create blood clots and found that older clots had a different structure and were tougher; for example, the pressure needed to compress them increased significantly from 35.3% for 7-day clots to 66.6% for 14-day clots. Understanding these differences is important to help improve treatments for patients with chronic blood clots. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on better treatments for patients with chronic deep vein thrombosis.

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This study looked at new materials designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) effectively, especially in environments with high humidity, which can hinder performance. The researchers created three new compounds, two of which (CALF-20M-w and CALF-20M-e) managed to retain over 20% of their ability to capture CO₂ even at 70% humidity, whereas the original material (CALF-20) performed poorly under the same conditions. This improvement is significant because it means these new materials could be used in real-world settings, like cleaning emissions from power plants, where both CO₂ and water vapor are present. Who this helps: This research benefits industries that need to reduce carbon emissions, such as power generation and manufacturing.

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This study looked at how different parts of platinum (Pt) surfaces react during a specific chemical reaction called oxygen reduction. Researchers found that the area around steps on these surfaces can be much more active than the flat areas, with activity increasing up to 50 times for atoms near the step edge compared to those in the middle of a flat surface. This finding is important because it helps scientists design better catalysts by understanding which specific surface features enhance reactivity. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and engineers working on catalyst technology for various chemical processes.

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Researchers studied how quercetin, a natural compound, affects the cells in the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) from patients with endometriosis, a condition that causes chronic pain and infertility. They found that quercetin helps these cells to mature properly, which is essential for embryo implantation, and it activates certain pathways in these cells that are linked to cell aging. Specifically, quercetin improved the cell maturation process significantly in both healthy and endometriosis-affected cells, suggesting it could be a promising treatment option. Who this helps: This benefits patients with endometriosis who are seeking more effective treatments for their condition.

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This study looked at two methods of temporarily stopping severe bleeding in pigs with serious liver injuries: an initial technique called gastroesophageal resuscitative occlusion of the aorta (GROA) followed by a second technique called resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). Out of 19 pigs, all 9 that received both methods survived the intervention, while 9 of 10 pigs in the control group died within about 8.5 minutes. These findings are significant because they show that using these two techniques together could improve survival rates for patients suffering from life-threatening abdominal bleeding. Who this helps: This benefits emergency doctors and trauma patients facing severe bleeding injuries.

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Researchers studied patients with therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (t-MN) to see if they had inherited cancer risks. They found that out of 225 patients, 23% were identified as high risk for inherited cancer issues, and when testing a smaller group, 37% of those at high risk had harmful genetic mutations, while none of the lower-risk patients did. This is important because it helps pinpoint who should get genetic testing, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment options. Who this helps: This helps patients with therapy-related myeloid neoplasms and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers developed a machine to automate the assembly of high-density carbon fiber electrode arrays, which are used for recording brain activity. This new machine places tiny carbon fiber electrodes with great precision and successfully created two arrays containing 16 electrodes each. These arrays showed similar performance to those made by hand, making the process faster and more efficient. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working with brain-computer interfaces and neurological studies.

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This study looked at how a protein called eCIRP affects certain white blood cells (neutrophils) during sepsis, a serious infection. Researchers found that eCIRP triggers the formation of a specific type of aged neutrophil, which in turn increases inflammation and damages the lungs in mice with sepsis. Specifically, mice that received these aged neutrophils had worse outcomes: they showed elevated signs of injury and inflammation and a decreased chance of survival, indicating that these cells play a harmful role in the disease. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with sepsis and their doctors by providing insights into the immune response that worsens the condition.

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This study looked at a specific type of immune cell called age-associated or autoimmune-associated B cells (ABCs) in mice that are models for lupus. The researchers found that ABCs are more effective than regular B cells at activating T cells and that when treated with the diabetes drug metformin, they become less capable of presenting antigens and supporting T cell growth. This is important because it highlights how metabolism affects immune cell function and could lead to new approaches for treating autoimmune diseases. Who this helps: Patients with autoimmune diseases like lupus.

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This study looked at how the loss of certain microRNAs (miR-15/16) in mice affects blood cell development and leads to diseases like acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Researchers found that when both miR-15/16 clusters were removed, the mice showed a dramatic increase in blood cell progenitors, which contributed to a higher risk of developing AML; specifically, these mice had more than three times the number of specific progenitor cells compared to normal mice. This research is important because it identifies a potential early indicator of blood cancers and could help in developing new treatments or diagnostics. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for blood cancers, particularly those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes.

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This study looked at how well a specific model can predict walking patterns in people using ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) with different stiffness levels. The researchers tested two AFOs on six healthy volunteers and found that the model's predictions for step length were fairly close, with a maximum prediction error of 70%, while swing time predictions had up to 67% error. These findings matter because they highlight the model’s strengths and weaknesses in predicting how AFO stiffness affects walking, which can inform better AFO designs. Who this helps: This helps patients who use ankle-foot orthoses and the doctors designing those devices.

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This study focused on creating free software that allows doctors to use regular 2D ultrasound machines to produce 3D images of blood vessels, specifically for patients with dialysis fistulas. The researchers found that these 3D images, called "sono-angiograms," closely matched traditional images from a fistulogram in five test subjects, with a match rate ranging from 42.8% to 77.0%. This accomplishment is important because it makes point-of-care diagnostics cheaper and more accessible, especially for assessing dialysis access. Who this helps: Patients with end-stage kidney disease who rely on dialysis.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of devices used to remove blood clots from large blood vessels in the brain during strokes, using 12 human brains to simulate the process. Researchers found that while devices successfully opened up blocked arteries 71% of the time, many patients still faced challenges: 73% had some blockage remaining, and 28% had leftover clots despite what appeared to be successful procedures. Understanding these limitations is crucial for improving stroke treatment, as better devices could lead to improved outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from strokes and their doctors in choosing better treatment options.

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This research studied a medical device called gastroesophageal resuscitative occlusion of the aorta (GROA) to see if it could help control severe bleeding and increase survival in pigs with serious liver injuries. They found that while 7 out of 8 pigs with no treatment died quickly, all pigs treated with GROA or another device called REBOA survived the 60-minute intervention, with GROA pigs surviving an average of 86 minutes afterwards. This is important because it shows that both devices can effectively stop life-threatening bleeding and extend survival time in critical situations. Who this helps: This research benefits patients facing severe abdominal injuries and emergency medical teams treating such cases.

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This study looked at how giving oxytocin to pregnant mice affects the brain development of their offspring. Researchers found that oxytocin treatment led to different gene activity in baby mice's brains just before and just after birth, particularly affecting female mice more than males. These changes in gene expression might influence important brain functions, which could have lasting effects on brain development. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and healthcare providers who study brain development and maternal health.

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This study explored a new type of ankle foot orthosis (AFO) that is made using 3D printing. Researchers created a segmented AFO with custom parts that fit the wearer perfectly, lasting over four months without breaking while providing comfort and stability. This innovation allows for quick adjustments to the device's stiffness and speeds up the manufacturing process. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need orthotic support for their ankles and feet.

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This study examined how aspiration thrombectomy, a procedure used to treat certain types of strokes by removing blood clots, affects delicate brain arteries. Researchers found that arteries can collapse during this procedure, especially when using larger catheters and at lower blood pressure, with collapse occurring in 98% of tested cases under specific conditions. Understanding these risks is crucial for improving patient outcomes during stroke treatments. Who this helps: Patients undergoing thrombectomy for stroke.

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This study focused on a specific type of immune cell called plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and how they react to the influenza virus. The researchers found that these cells release many important proteins, including type-I interferons and various cytokines, when they encounter the virus. They discovered that pDCs have diverse roles and can adapt their functions based on the situation, which is crucial for our immune response to infections and could impact autoimmune conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by enhancing our understanding of how the immune system fights viruses like influenza.

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Researchers studied a special device called an electrochemical membrane reactor that helps produce hydrogen more effectively. They found that this technology can generate hydrogen with better efficiency, meaning more hydrogen can be produced using less energy. This advancement is important because it can lead to cheaper and cleaner hydrogen production, supporting the move towards renewable energy sources. Who this helps: This benefits energy companies and anyone looking for cleaner energy solutions.

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This study examined food insecurity among families with children on the autism spectrum during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that these families were about four times more likely to experience food insecurity compared to families without disabilities, with a likelihood ratio of 3.7. This matters because it highlights the significant challenges faced by these families during a crisis, revealing a need for targeted support and resources. Who this helps: This information benefits families with children on the autism spectrum and the organizations that support them.

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This study looked at the endometrial tissues from the menstrual fluid of 33 women, comparing those with endometriosis to those without and those with symptoms suggestive of the condition. Researchers discovered that women with endometriosis had fewer natural killer cells and different types of other cells in their menstrual tissue, which could help identify the disorder more effectively. This is important because it could lead to faster diagnosis and better treatment options for women suffering from chronic symptoms related to endometriosis. Who this helps: Patients with endometriosis and doctors involved in their care.

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This study looked at muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) to find out if specific molecular markers could predict how well patients would respond to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Researchers analyzed tissue samples from 18 patients and discovered 2,309 genes and 13 types of microRNA that were expressed differently in patients who responded to the treatment compared to those who did not. Understanding these markers is important because it can help doctors select the right patients for NAC, potentially improving their treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer and their doctors by providing tools to tailor chemotherapy treatments.

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The study looked at how well the walls of blood vessels can stretch after specific medical procedures in an 83-year-old man with a problematic fistula. Researchers found that they could accurately measure very small changes in the vessel walls before and after the treatments using standard ultrasound equipment, showing that this method can effectively follow up on how blood vessels respond to surgery. This is important because it offers a reliable way to track improvements in blood flow and vessel health after interventions, potentially benefiting more patients in similar situations. Who this helps: This helps patients with vascular issues and their doctors monitor treatment effectiveness.

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This study explored a new way to create images of blood vessels for dialysis patients using simple 2D ultrasound instead of more complex and expensive methods like traditional angiograms. The researchers successfully developed a technique that produced images similar to standard angiograms, which could be done directly in dialysis clinics. This is important because it makes it easier for healthcare providers to assess and plan treatments for vascular access issues in patients with kidney disease. Who this helps: This helps dialysis patients and their healthcare providers by offering a more accessible imaging option.

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This study looked at how to measure the stress on blood vessel walls in patients who use dialysis, a treatment for severe kidney disease. Researchers found that they could use standard ultrasound data (called B-mode DICOM) to see high-resolution strain signals in blood vessels. They achieved this with an accuracy rate of at least 86.7%, showing this method can effectively monitor vascular health without needing more complex imaging tools. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing dialysis and their doctors by improving the way vascular access issues are monitored.

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This study developed a new method using ultrasound to measure how much blood vessels expand and contract with each heartbeat, which is important for understanding vascular health. The research tested this method on 10 patients preparing for surgery and found that it produced results similar to those obtained by experts, while reducing variations caused by factors like movement or changes in blood pressure. This matters because it could lead to more accurate and consistent assessments of blood vessel health, improving pre-surgery evaluations. Who this helps: Patients undergoing surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked at improving ultrasound measurements of blood vessel flexibility, which is important for patients needing hemodialysis. Researchers found that human error led to large differences in measurements, with variations in one case reaching 41%. They developed semiautomated software that significantly reduced these errors, making the measurements more reliable. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing hemodialysis and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how well thrombectomy devices, which are used to remove blood clots in strokes, work against the different types of material in the clots (called emboli) found in patients. The researchers tested 16 emboli from 11 stroke patients and found that the strength of these clots varied widely; for instance, they measured that the stress needed to break them ranged from 63 to 2396 kPa, with an average of 569 kPa. Understanding how these clots behave and how much force is needed to remove them helps improve treatment methods and reduce complications during procedures. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing large-vessel occlusion strokes and the doctors treating them.

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This study created a new, cost-effective model to help test devices used in treating strokes caused by blocked blood vessels. Researchers built a simulation using 3D-printed and readily available materials that closely mimics how blood flow works in the human brain. They found that their model effectively displayed how blood clots interact with thrombectomy devices, allowing for better device design and research without exposing patients to radiation. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on stroke treatments.

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This study focused on improving treatments for strokes caused by blockages in large blood vessels by creating a testing system using human brains. They successfully tested 105 stroke cases, achieving significant results in the ability to restore blood flow in these situations, specifically completing 184 attempts to remove the blockages. This is important because even with current treatments, 40% of stroke patients do not have good outcomes, so advancing these methods could significantly improve patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients who suffer from large vessel occlusion strokes and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers tested a new device designed to stop severe bleeding in the abdomen by using pigs as models. They found that when this device was used, all five pigs survived for at least 60 minutes, while all three pigs that did not receive the treatment died within 43 minutes. This is important because it shows that the device can temporarily control life-threatening abdominal bleeding, giving patients more time to reach a hospital for further treatment. Who this helps: This benefits trauma patients and emergency medical responders.

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This study developed a new method to test how well a specific treatment for hardened plaque in blood vessels, called noncompliant balloon angioplasty (NC BA), works on human tissue. Researchers found that using a 4-mm balloon caused cracking in the plaque, which helped surrounding tissue expand, while a 3-mm balloon did not cause any noticeable changes. This method is important because it allows doctors to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments without damaging the samples, helping to improve care for patients with blocked arteries. Who this helps: Patients with atherosclerosis and heart disease.

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This study developed a new model to help predict how people walk using simple tools like video cameras and sensors, which can be used at home or in a clinic. The model accurately predicts different phases of walking, like when one leg is standing still and when both legs are in motion, focusing on factors like joint angles. It found that the accuracy of predictions is heavily influenced by the starting position of the joints and that the length of a person's stride is related to their height. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by enabling better assessment of walking and mobility.

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This study looked at how the makeup of blood clots (thrombi) affects the success of a procedure called mechanical thrombectomy, which is used to remove clots in stroke patients. The researchers analyzed data from 22 studies involving 1,623 patients and found that clots with higher red blood cell content led to better outcomes and shorter procedure times. Understanding the composition of these clots could help doctors choose the best treatment methods for patients. Who this helps: Patients suffering from strokes due to large vessel occlusion.

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This study looked at a specific gene thought to increase the risk of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Researchers found that this gene is primarily active in a type of immune cell called plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and may play a role in the disease by affecting how these cells produce interferon, a key protein in immune responses. Notably, they discovered that pDCs from individuals with a certain genetic variant showed a temporary issue with interferon production, indicating a potential link between this gene and lupus. Who this helps: Patients with lupus and their doctors.

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This study focused on developing a new method for creating carbon fiber electrode arrays that can record nerve signals. The researchers found that using a blowtorch to shape the tips resulted in the best performance, with the lowest resistance, making it easier to capture high-quality neural signals. This new approach allows for faster and cheaper production of these important devices, making them more accessible for scientific research and potential clinical use. Who this helps: Patients and researchers studying nerve activity and developing treatments for nerve-related conditions.

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This study looked at how angioplasty, a procedure that uses a balloon to open narrowed blood vessels, affects the blood vessels used for dialysis in patients with kidney disease. Researchers found that after angioplasty, the diameter of the blood vessels increased from 3.4 mm to 5.5 mm, and the stiffness of the vessel wall increased by over 52%. These findings show that while angioplasty can widen the vessels, it may also make them less flexible, which is important for the long-term success of dialysis access. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving dialysis and the doctors who manage their care.

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This study focused on understanding endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. Researchers looked at cells from menstrual fluid and found that those from women with endometriosis showed notable differences, like a 92% accuracy in identifying the disease. This means that testing menstrual fluid could offer a quick and non-invasive way to diagnose endometriosis, helping reduce the long wait time for diagnosis and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with endometriosis.

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Researchers studied 44 patients with early-stage clear cell kidney cancer to find out which ones might develop aggressive cancer later. They discovered that 131 genes and 2 types of small RNA were expressed differently in patients who developed metastasis within 5 years compared to those who stayed disease-free for over 5 years. This is important because it helps identify patients at higher risk for cancer spreading, even when they initially appear low-risk, allowing for more tailored monitoring and treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients who are diagnosed with early-stage clear cell kidney cancer.

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This study reviews tissue mimicking materials (TMMs) used in medical imaging and therapy, such as CT scans and radiotherapy. It highlights the need for better standards in developing these materials, as more advanced imaging techniques are being used. Establishing common guidelines for TMMs could enhance their effectiveness across different medical applications, ultimately improving patient care and treatment precision. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers involved in imaging and therapy.

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This study created artificial blood clots, called embolus analogs (EAs), to help researchers study strokes caused by large vessel blockages. Researchers mixed different amounts of red blood cells, plasma, and platelets to make these EAs and tested how they behaved compared to real clots from stroke patients. They found that the EAs closely resembled actual clots, showing similar composition and strength, which is important for improving treatments like thrombectomy. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing strokes and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a new, less invasive method for controlling severe bleeding in animals, called gastroesophageal resuscitative occlusion of the aorta (GROA). Researchers found that GROA worked similarly to a more traditional method (REBOA) for managing hemorrhagic shock, with most animals surviving interventions of up to 60 minutes. However, both methods had complications after being turned off for longer periods; only 2 out of 10 animals survived with GROA after 90 minutes, while none survived with REBOA. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and emergency responders treating patients with severe traumatic injuries.

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This study looked at healthcare access for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) using data from a 2016 survey. It found that children with ASD are nearly four times more likely to have unmet healthcare needs compared to children without disabilities, while children with other disabilities are about twice as likely to face similar issues. These findings show significant health inequalities and highlight the need for better healthcare solutions for these children. Who this helps: This helps children with autism and their families.

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This study looked at how the structure and arrangement of copper ions in a specific type of zeolite material (Cu-SSZ-13) affects its ability to be used in chemical reactions, particularly for reducing nitrogen oxides and partially oxidizing methane. Researchers found that different arrangements of aluminum within the zeolite led to a mix of different copper species, which could not be easily identified due to their similar chemical behavior. Specifically, when heated to 523 K, larger copper complexes were converted into distinct mononuclear forms, highlighting how the material's structure plays a significant role in its effectiveness as a catalyst. Who this helps: This helps researchers and engineers working to develop better catalysts for pollution control and methane oxidation.

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This study looked at how much heat is generated during the insertion of Kirschner wires (K-wires) using two different drilling methods: unidirectional and oscillatory. The researchers found that the oscillatory method produced 13% less heat but took 46% longer to drill compared to the unidirectional method. This is important because high temperatures during drilling can harm the bone, so finding a balance between faster drilling times and lower heat generation is crucial for safer surgical procedures. Who this helps: This benefits orthopedic surgeons and their patients by offering insights to improve surgical techniques and reduce the risk of bone damage.

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Researchers studied a new type of bone drilling tool called a hollow notched K-wire to see if it could reduce harmful heat buildup during surgeries. They found that this new tool led to a 42% reduction in the peak bone temperature compared to traditional solid K-wires, and using compressed air during the drilling process lowered the temperature rise by an additional 48%. This is important because it helps prevent damage to the bone from overheating, improving outcomes for patients with fractures. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing orthopedic surgery for bone fractures.

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This study looked at different types of cells in ovarian cancer by analyzing samples from nine patients with various grades of cancer and different tumor locations. The researchers found 16 distinct cell types, with certain cells linked to more aggressive (high grade) tumors and others unique to a patient with a breast cancer relapse. They discovered that as tumors spread from the original site to other areas, the types of cells changed, indicating a shift in how the cancer behaves. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients and doctors by providing insights into how ovarian cancer develops and spreads.

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This study focused on identifying different types of cells in serous epithelial ovarian cancer, a common form of ovarian cancer, using a technique called single cell RNA sequencing. Researchers found that the cancer has specific cell groups linked to the tumor's grade and origin, which could lead to better-targeted treatments. Understanding these cell types is important for developing more effective therapies and improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with serous epithelial ovarian cancer by informing better treatment options.