Cara L Lewis

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This research studied a new method for detecting tiny pieces of a biodegradable plastic called PBAT in soil and compost. The study found that using a specific technique combined with gas chromatography mass spectrometry significantly improved detection, making it easier to measure how PBAT breaks down over time. In an experiment, they observed that PBAT plastic degraded in industrial compost, showing that their method can effectively track plastic waste and assess its environmental impact. Who this helps: This helps researchers and environmental scientists understand and monitor biodegradable plastics' effects on soil health.

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This study looked at how satisfied military service members and veterans are with their participation in the Millennium Cohort Study, the largest ongoing health study of its kind. Out of 27,224 participants, 96% expressed satisfaction, mainly motivated by a desire to help other service members and to learn more about military health issues. These findings are important because emphasizing the community-focused motivations of participants can improve recruitment and keep people engaged in the study over the long term. Who this helps: This benefits military personnel and veterans who participate in the study and rely on its findings for better health care.

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This study looked at how strengthening certain muscles in the hip affects forces on the hip joint during walking, particularly for people suffering from hip pain due to femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Researchers found that as hip flexor strength increased, the forces on the hip joint during walking also increased; however, when strength decreased, the forces varied widely. These results are important because they show that improving hip flexor strength can create more consistent outcomes in how the hip joint is loaded while walking. Who this helps: This research helps patients with hip pain, particularly those with FAIS, by highlighting the importance of hip flexor strength in improving walking dynamics.

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This study examined how the forces exerted on the ground while walking (known as vertical ground reaction forces) affect the knee that is not affected by osteoarthritis in individuals who only have it in one knee. The researchers found that while these forces did not predict issues in the inner part of the knee, higher loading rates helped protect against damage on the outer part, while certain patterns of loading were linked to increased risk of cartilage loss. This matters because understanding these factors could help identify individuals at risk for worsening knee issues before they develop symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis and their doctors in managing and preventing further joint damage.

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This study looked at a new type of gel made from natural and synthetic materials that can be used for 3D printing living tissues. Researchers found that adding a specific compound called PEGDA made the gels stronger and improved their ability to hold specific shapes when printed, with stiffness ranging from 620 to 4600 Pascals. This is important because it allows for the creation of better designs for tissue structures that could be used in medical treatments. Who this helps: Patients needing tissue repair or replacement.

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This study looked at how women changed their preferences for breast cancer screening after learning about a new guideline that recommends screening every two years starting at age 40. After learning this, 86% of women preferred to have a screening at their current age, up from 81%, and 45% wanted to screen every two years, compared to 33% before the intervention. The findings show that even though the new guideline is more direct, women still want to know about the benefits and risks of screening, which is important for making informed choices. Who this helps: This benefits women ages 40-74 and healthcare providers guiding them on breast cancer screening.

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This study looked at why some women between the ages of 39 and 49 are skeptical about the benefits and risks of mammogram screening. Researchers found that skepticism stems from people feeling the new information clashes with their previous beliefs, rather than it being emotionally distressing. Interestingly, those who were more skeptical about the risks preferred to start regular screenings at a younger age, suggesting that better and clearer communication from health experts could help address misunderstandings and promote informed decision-making about screenings. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially women considering when to start mammography screening.

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This research focused on improving the materials used in 3D printing for creating human tissues, known as bioinks. By studying different combinations of ingredients like alginate and gelatin, the researchers found that a machine learning model was able to predict the thickness (or viscosity) of these bioinks very accurately, achieving a score of 0.99 in performance. This is important because it can help scientists design better bioinks quickly and efficiently, which can speed up advancements in tissue engineering. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers in the field of tissue engineering.

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This study looked at how the speed of walking affects knee pain and physical abilities in people with knee osteoarthritis (OA) over two years. Researchers found that while a decrease in walking speed (10 fewer steps per minute) might increase the risk of developing knee symptoms by about 10%, this link wasn't strong enough to be deemed significant. Overall, the study concluded that walking speed alone doesn't clearly influence pain or function in those with knee OA, indicating more research is needed to understand how these factors interact. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with knee osteoarthritis by clarifying the relationship between walking speed and knee symptoms.

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This study looked at how pushing off with the ankle while walking affects the movement mechanics of the hip and knee. Researchers found that when participants increased their ankle push-off, it changed the way their hips and knees moved: there was more pressure on the hip early in the step and greater pressure on the knee at the end of the step. These changes could be important for people who have hip or knee issues, as the mechanics of movement could increase their injury risk. Who this helps: This helps patients with hip and knee problems.

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This study looked at how US women respond to a decision aid that explains the risks and benefits of mammograms, especially the issue of overdiagnosis, which is when benign cancers are mistakenly identified as harmful. Researchers interviewed 30 women aged 39-49, and found that many struggle to understand the difference between overdiagnosis and false positives. Although the women generally viewed the decision aid as credible, they remained skeptical and often relied on their past experiences and opinions from doctors and family to form their views. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women considering mammograms, by providing information about the complexities of breast cancer screening.

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This study looked at how the forces generated while walking affect knee damage in people with osteoarthritis. Researchers found that higher peak impact forces during walking are linked to a greater risk of worsening bone and cartilage damage, particularly in certain parts of the knee—specifically, a 33% higher chance in the lateral patellofemoral joint and up to a 48% higher chance in cartilage damage across different joint areas. Understanding these connections helps pinpoint ways to potentially reduce knee damage by modifying walking techniques or habits. Who this helps: Patients with knee osteoarthritis.

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This study looked at how well athletes moved six months after having surgery for a torn ACL. Researchers tested 148 athletes and found that all of them showed poor movement patterns in at least one task, with problematic movements occurring in 52% to 95% of cases on their injured leg. These findings are important because they highlight that many athletes may not be ready to safely return to sports, which could increase their risk of re-injury. Who this helps: This helps athletes recovering from ACL surgery to better understand their readiness to return to sports.

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This study looked at how a trauma-informed care approach can improve staff management in psychiatric facilities, especially in preventing and managing workplace violence. It found that current management methods often fall short in addressing the trauma that nurses experience, which affects their ability to cope with violence. Implementing a trauma-informed approach could enhance the work environment for nurses and improve their resilience, ultimately helping them feel safer at work. Who this helps: This helps nurses and healthcare staff working in psychiatric facilities.

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This study looked at how the strength of the gluteus maximus muscle affects hip joint forces during walking in people with Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS) compared to healthy individuals. They found that while there were some variations in hip joint forces with different levels of muscle strength, the differences were small and not clinically significant, meaning they might not make a meaningful impact on treatment or outcomes. Understanding these relationships is important because FAIS can lead to osteoarthritis, and improving muscle strength could potentially prevent further joint damage. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with FAIS and healthcare providers looking for better treatment strategies.

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This study looked at why some people don't finish surveys in a large military research study called the Millennium Cohort Study. They found that 0.29% of people who were already part of the study and 15.43% of new participants didn’t complete the surveys. Factors like military rank and the type of questions asked influenced whether or not individuals finished the surveys, which is important for making sure the study's results are accurate and reliable. Who this helps: This helps researchers understand survey patterns to improve data collection methods.

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This study developed a new device to better understand how changes in mechanical forces affect cells in the intervertebral disc, which is important for treating back pain and disc degeneration. Researchers created flexible materials that could be adjusted to imitate different levels of strain, ranging from 8 to 20%, and found that the cells could still survive and align correctly under these conditions for up to 14 hours. This matters because it provides a more accurate way to study cell behavior in disc degeneration, helping to inform future treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with back pain and doctors looking for better therapeutic options.

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This study looked at how different joints in the legs help control movement when a person stands up from a seated position, comparing young adults to older adults. It found that older adults rely more on their ankle, knee, and hip strength to move upward when standing, while their ability to control forward motion doesn't seem to change with age. This matters because it highlights how older adults may need to adjust their strategies for standing up, which can impact their balance and safety. Who this helps: Patients, especially older adults who may struggle with mobility.

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This study looked at modifying corn starch to make better packaging films. The researchers found that a film made with 5% glutaraldehyde and a small amount of another material had excellent properties, including a maximum water contact angle of 95.07 degrees, very low water solubility at 2.31%, and a high strength rating of 30.22 MPa. These results are important because they show that this new packaging material is not only effective but also environmentally friendly, breaking down quickly in soil. Who this helps: This research benefits manufacturers and businesses looking for sustainable packaging solutions.

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This study looked at how registered nurse-led visits in a neurosurgery clinic improved patient access to care over 25 years. They found that the number of surgeries performed by one neurosurgeon rose from about 211 cases per year to 309 cases, showing a consistent increase in patient care thanks to the RN-led approach. This matters because it highlights how nurses can help optimize healthcare delivery and ensure patients receive timely treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients needing neurosurgery and the healthcare teams involved in their care.

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This study looked at how the strength of knee muscles affects knee pain in adults who have or are at risk for osteoarthritis. Researchers found that people with the weakest knee muscle power were 1.35 times more likely to experience worsening knee pain and 1.95 times more likely to develop frequent pain compared to those with the strongest knee muscles. This matters because improving knee muscle strength could help reduce pain and improve quality of life for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with knee osteoarthritis and those at risk for it.

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This study looked at how walking speed affects hip movements in people with and without mild hip pain. Researchers found that when individuals walked at the same speed, both groups had similar hip movements, and increasing their walking speed led to higher hip movements in both groups. This matters because it shows that walking speed, not just hip pain, influences how the hips move, which can help improve assessments and treatments for those with hip issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with hip pain and their doctors in understanding hip movements during walking.

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This study focused on improving a type of material called bioink that is used in 3D printing human tissue. Researchers tested different mixtures of ingredients in the bioink to see how they affected its thickness (or viscosity) during printing. They found that using the right combination of ingredients allowed them to create bioinks with a specific viscosity needed for successful printing, achieving a high accuracy in their predictions (R^2 of 0.98) and a very low error rate (0.12). This is important because better bioinks can lead to stronger, more reliable 3D-printed tissues, which could greatly benefit medical treatments and regenerative medicine. Who this helps: Patients needing tissue repair and doctors involved in regenerative medicine.

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This study looked at the careers of retired elite female football players, focusing on how long they played and how satisfied they felt with their careers. It found that players who competed at a higher level enjoyed longer careers and that those who were mentally and physically healthier reported greater job satisfaction. However, players who had surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during their careers tended to be less satisfied after retirement. Who this helps: This helps retired female athletes and sports medicine professionals understand how health impacts career satisfaction and longevity.

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The study looked at how juvenile ornate spiny lobsters respond to different salt levels in their environment. It found that when the salinity was too high or too low, the lobsters struggled to manage their internal balance, which could lead to slower growth and lower survival rates. Specifically, the optimal salinity for their health and growth is between 25 and 34 parts per thousand (ppt), and exposure to higher salinity can cause significant stress. Who this helps: This helps aquaculture farmers and those managing lobster habitats.

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This study looked at how changes in the strength of the gluteus maximus muscle affect the forces on the hip joint while walking. The researchers found that when the gluteus maximus is stronger, the forces on the hip joint are better directed, which could help reduce injury risk. Understanding this relationship is important because it can inform training and rehabilitation practices for improving hip joint health. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from hip injuries and their doctors.

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This study examined how the mechanical stretching of cells called annulus fibrosus (AF) cells, which are part of the spine's discs, affects their behavior and health. Researchers created a flexible material that can be stretched in different ways and found that the stiffness of this material could range from 8.72 to 238 kPa. They discovered that when AF cells were stretched, they remained healthy for up to 14 hours and changed their shape to align with the direction of the stretch. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with disc degeneration and spinal issues by improving understanding of how mechanical forces impact their cell health.

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This study looked at how different levels of physical activity affect pain in people with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Researchers found that when individuals increased their light physical activity (LPA) or moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), their pain levels also tended to rise. Specifically, just above-average LPA and simultaneous spikes in both LPA and MVPA were linked to increased pain. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with FAIS by guiding their exercise choices to manage pain effectively.

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This study looked at a way to measure the movement of the hip joint using a technique called dynamic hip ultrasonography. The researchers tested this method on 13 healthy young adults and found that different measures of hip movement were reliable, with a high reliability rating of 0.85 for one specific measurement (PFADIR). This matters because having a reliable way to assess hip movement can help doctors diagnose and treat hip-related issues more effectively. Who this helps: Patients with hip joint problems.

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This study looked at a group of enzymes called cytochrome P450s in the ornate spiny lobster, which play key roles in the lobster's growth and development, particularly during its shedding or moulting process. Researchers identified 28 important genes out of 42 potential cytochrome P450 genes, focusing on those involved in the production and breakdown of a hormone critical for moulting. This is significant because understanding these genes can help us better grasp how lobsters grow and adapt through their complex life stages. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying crustacean biology and could inform lobster farming practices.

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This study looked at how the hip shapes of female athletes differ from those of male athletes, especially concerning issues like hip pain that can lead to arthritis. It found that most existing research focuses on males, even though females make up two-thirds of those experiencing hip problems. This gap in research means that many treatment recommendations for women may not be effective, highlighting the urgent need for studies centered on female athletes to ensure better long-term hip health. Who this helps: This research benefits female athletes and healthcare providers treating them.

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This study explored the preferences of women aged 39 to 49 regarding when to start mammography screening for breast cancer. After receiving information about the benefits and drawbacks of screening, the number of women wanting to delay screening at age 40 increased from 27% to 38.5%. This is important because it shows that providing detailed information can change women's decisions about when to begin mammograms, highlighting that many prefer to wait based on their personal risk and understanding of screening. Who this helps: This helps women in their 40s who are deciding when to start mammography screening.

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This study examined how women with hip pain walk compared to those without it. Researchers looked at the walking patterns of 69 women—35 with hip pain and 34 without it—and found that those with hip pain had less hip extension and greater pelvic tilt when walking, both at a normal pace and when walking faster. Understanding these differences is important because it can help develop better physical therapy strategies for treating women with hip conditions. Who this helps: Patients suffering from hip pain.

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This study looked at the impact of immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS) on the risk of infection after surgeries. Out of nearly 24,000 procedures, 416 surgeries (1.7%) resulted in infections, and those that used IUSS had a 52% higher risk of infection compared to those that did not. This information is important because it highlights the need to reduce the use of IUSS to lower the risk of infections in surgical patients. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing surgery.

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This study looked at how the hip joint moves and is shaped in healthy individuals who have no hip problems. Researchers found that the hip bone can move up to 7 millimeters in different directions during passive movement, with an average movement of about 2 millimeters. These movements are linked to how the hip rotates and its overall shape, which is important for understanding hip function and potential issues like instability or impingement. Who this helps: This helps patients with hip conditions and doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at how different levels of a blood sugar marker (HbA) affect heart disease risk in people with two specific haptoglobin types (Hp2-2 and non-Hp2-2) who have type 2 diabetes. It found that people with the non-Hp2-2 phenotype had a 29% lower risk of heart disease if their HbA level was below 6.5%, while those with the Hp2-2 phenotype only showed increased risk when their HbA was high and they had a history of heart disease. Understanding these differences can help tailor treatment plans to better prevent heart problems in diabetes patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes and their doctors in managing heart disease risk.

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This study looked at how tiny structures in silicon dioxide (SiO₂), often used in electronics, respond when hit by radiation from lasers. The researchers found that in certain situations, the recovery time for free electrons in nanostructured SiO₂ increased sharply from less than 1 picosecond to more than 50 picoseconds. Understanding these dynamics is important because it helps explain why materials may be damaged over time when exposed to radiation, which has implications for improving materials used in technology and safety measures. Who this helps: This helps engineers and researchers working on materials for electronics and radiation protection.

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This study looked at how much effort older adults need to stand up from a chair compared to younger adults. Researchers found that while older adults (average age 70) have less strength and generate lower peak force in their knees and hips during this task, they use a similar relative effort as younger adults (average age 22). This means that older adults are not pushing their muscles to their limits when standing up, indicating they have some unused strength reserves. Who this helps: This research helps older adults and health professionals understand mobility and strength in aging.

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This study looked at whether the way the pelvis tilts while walking can lead to a specific hip bone deformity called cam morphology, which is linked to early arthritis. Researchers used a computer model to simulate how the hip bone develops under different conditions, finding that a tilted pelvis increased the risk of this deformity, shown by a change in the angle of the hip bone from 53° to 68°. Understanding this connection could help prevent cam deformity in young people by encouraging better physical habits before their bones finish growing. Who this helps: This helps young patients and their doctors manage risks for hip deformities.

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This study looked at how women with hip-related pain (HRP) move compared to women without such pain. It found that women with HRP had less movement power at the hip and ankle during walking—specifically, they used less force in their hip during a walking motion called pushoff. This matters because it highlights how hip pain affects movement in women differently than in men, suggesting that improving ankle movement could help reduce hip pain in women. Who this helps: This helps patients with hip-related pain, particularly women.

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This study focused on understanding the concept of health equity, which is the idea that everyone should have fair opportunities to achieve their best health without unfair differences. The researchers identified key factors that contribute to health equity, such as financial issues, laws, and social conditions. They emphasized that solving these problems is essential for improving health outcomes for everyone. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare providers and policymakers who aim to create fairer healthcare systems.

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This study looked at how people react when they hear about overdiagnosis in breast cancer screening, specifically focusing on feelings like skepticism and doubt. Researchers surveyed 525 women aged 39 to 49 and found that negative reactions, such as disbelief and defensiveness, are linked to a lower willingness to consider information about overdiagnosis in their screening decisions. The findings are important because if people don't trust or take this information seriously, they may struggle to make informed choices about their health. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women considering mammography screening.

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This study looked at how elite college sprinters run and whether their hip movements differ if they have a history of hamstring injuries. The researchers found that sprinters with past hamstring injuries showed much more side-to-side movement and unevenness in their running compared to healthy runners. This matters because these differences could affect their risk of re-injury and highlight the need for specific rehabilitation to improve their stability while running. Who this helps: This helps injured athletes and their coaches.

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This study looked at how personalized information affects the ordering and use of colorectal cancer screenings in veterans aged 70 to 75. Researchers found that while screening orders were customized to individual patients, only 62.8% of those who received this personalized approach were screened compared to 65.9% in the control group. Specifically, those who needed it the most were less likely to be screened with the personalized approach, highlighting a gap in effective intervention. Who this helps: This benefits older veterans who need proper guidance on cancer screenings.

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This study focused on hip osteoarthritis, which has been less studied compared to knee osteoarthritis. Experts gathered to discuss and share insights on effective rehabilitation and exercise strategies for managing hip osteoarthritis. The discussions included five presentations that highlighted various clinical approaches to better treatment and care. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from hip osteoarthritis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the timing and length of treatment for newborns with developmental dysplasia of the hip (a condition affecting their hip joints) influences their bone growth. Researchers found that starting treatment earlier is very important for healthy hip joint development, while extending treatment beyond six months doesn't significantly help. Understanding these factors can guide better treatment plans for affected infants. Who this helps: This helps infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip and their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at what happens after total hip replacement surgery, particularly focusing on rehabilitation and recovery. It found that while surgery is common for hip arthritis, patients often don't regain full function after the operation. The paper outlines necessary rehabilitation steps and guidelines to improve recovery, which is critical as more younger people are getting this surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from hip replacement surgery.