G J Tan

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This study looked at the levels of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) in newborns and infants to help doctors better understand heart health in these young patients. Researchers analyzed samples from 1,047 children without heart disease and found that hs-cTnT levels are highest in newborns, with a drop over the first year of life; for instance, the 99th percentile cut-off for newborns was 114 ng/L, while for infants aged 5-6 months, it was 23.5 ng/L. This information helps doctors diagnose and treat heart conditions in infants more effectively by providing clear reference points for what is normal. Who this helps: This helps pediatricians and cardiologists caring for infants and newborns.

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This study investigated a new treatment approach for patients with unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, a type of liver cancer that can't be surgically removed. Researchers found that a combination of specific chemotherapy (called HAIC-FO) and an immunotherapy drug led to better survival and progression-free periods than a standard chemotherapy plus immunotherapy, with average overall survival of 14.5 months compared to 10.5 months for the standard treatment. Importantly, the new treatment also caused fewer severe side effects related to issues like anemia and fatigue. Who this helps: This treatment benefits patients with advanced liver cancer.

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This study focused on improving the detection of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by using two types of heart signals: electrocardiograms (ECGs) and phonocardiograms (PCGs). Researchers developed a new method called PACFNet, which achieved a remarkable accuracy of 97.7%, with a sensitivity of 98% and specificity of 97.3% in tests. This is important because it demonstrates a reliable way to diagnose heart problems, even when some data is missing. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing more accurate and reliable heart disease diagnoses.

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This study looked at how other medications taken alongside immune therapies (ICIs) affect the treatment outcomes for patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Researchers analyzed data from 851 patients and found that those who took antibiotics had shorter survival (13.6 months) compared to those who did not (20.7 months) and also experienced more health complications. On the other hand, patients who used glucocorticoids to manage treatment-related side effects had better survival rates than those who used them as a preventative measure. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients by guiding medication choices during cancer treatment.

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This study examined the risk of gastric cancer (GC) in Asian patients with a condition called gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM), which can indicate early signs of cancer. Researchers found that Asian adults with GIM are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop GC compared to those without GIM, and certain subtypes of GIM pose a higher risk. Understanding these risks is important for improving early detection and treatment strategies, which can ultimately save lives. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with GIM, by highlighting the importance of regular check-ups for early cancer detection.

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This study compared two methods of monitoring people at risk for liver cancer: ultrasound (US) and a more advanced type of MRI without contrast (NCEMRI). It looked at the costs and benefits for 482,000 people over 40 years, finding that MRI, while more accurate, is not worth the extra money compared to ultrasound. Specifically, the average costs were about SGD 8,099 for ultrasound and SGD 9,720 for MRI, with ultrasound providing more overall value. Who this helps: This information benefits healthcare providers and patients at risk for liver cancer by guiding more cost-effective screening choices.

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This study compared two types of weight-loss surgery—Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (LSG)—to see how well they help obese Malaysian patients with type 2 diabetes achieve better blood sugar control. It included 172 patients and found that remission rates for diabetes were high across both types of surgery: 92.9% for mild diabetes, 56.2% for moderate, and 14.7% for severe cases. Both surgeries significantly improved blood sugar levels and reduced the need for diabetes medications, making LSG a simpler and lower-risk option that works just as well as RYGB for early diabetes management in obese patients. Who this helps: Patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at the best way to monitor patients with small liver tumors after treatment with radiofrequency ablation. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 patients and found that the most cost-effective follow-up plan is to do a CT scan every three months for the first two years, then every six months, and switch to a combination of ultrasound and blood tests every six months after five years. This matters because it helps ensure patients get the right level of care while managing costs effectively. Who this helps: Patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma.

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The study looked at how well Veterans followed up on their health care after visiting the emergency department (ED) for conditions like asthma, heart failure, and diabetes. Out of 35 Veterans surveyed, 20 received or scheduled the necessary follow-up care, while 15 either partially received or did not receive any care at all. Many Veterans either forgot the follow-up instructions or thought they didn’t need them, which highlights a need for better communication and education about follow-up care after ED visits. Who this helps: This helps Veterans who need follow-up care after emergency visits.

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This study looked at how students' ability to think in three dimensions and the style of 3D models used in anatomy education affect learning outcomes. It found that students with lower spatial skills scored lower on drawing heart diagrams compared to those with higher skills, and that students who studied a color-coded liver model performed better in tests than those who used a highly realistic model. This matters because using the right teaching tools can make a big difference in how well students learn anatomy. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and educators in anatomy courses.

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This study looked at knee pain and osteoarthritis (OA) in older adults to see how different criteria for diagnosing OA affected the characteristics of patients. Researchers examined 230 participants, finding that factors like weight and handgrip strength were strong predictors of OA, while anxiety mostly wasn't. They discovered that the way OA was diagnosed varied significantly among individuals, which can complicate how researchers understand and compare OA studies. Who this helps: This research is beneficial for doctors and researchers trying to better diagnose and treat knee OA in patients.

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This study looked at how social support and mental health affect the progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA) in older adults. Researchers followed 148 participants, average age 66, and found that 19% experienced worsening knee OA over about 29 months. They discovered that a strong social network can help slow down this decline, particularly when considering factors like depression and muscle strength. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults with knee osteoarthritis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at whether 3D-printed models of the heart and neck are as good for learning anatomy as traditional preserved human specimens. Participants showed a significant improvement in their understanding of the material, with learning boosts of about 30% in both groups. However, both methods resulted in similar test scores, indicating that either 3D models or plastinated specimens can effectively teach anatomy. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and educators by providing effective learning tools for anatomy.

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This study looked at a new testing method called digital PCR (dPCR) and its use in noninvasive prenatal testing to check for genetic conditions in unborn babies. The research found that dPCR is more precise than traditional methods, allowing for better detection of chromosome abnormalities and genetic mutations without needing a standard reference point. This is important because using more accurate tests can lead to better health decisions for expectant parents and reduce the need for invasive procedures that carry risks. Who this helps: Expectant parents and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new fungicide called pydiflumetofen to see how effective it is against rice bakanae disease, which is caused by a fungus. Researchers tested 121 samples from different parts of China and found that pydiflumetofen could reduce fungal growth by more than 90% when applied to seeds at certain concentrations, outperforming traditional fungicides like carbendazim. This is important because it offers a promising solution to manage this disease effectively while also preventing resistance. Who this helps: This benefits rice farmers and the agriculture industry by providing a more effective tool for crop protection.

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This study explored whether online training could help second-year medical students remember and apply what they learned about diagnosing chest X-rays. Students were able to diagnose trained cases accurately and quickly, scoring an average of 3.75 out of 4 with a response time of about 5 seconds. When tested on similar but different cases, their scores dropped to 2.08 and 1.31 out of 4, showing that while they retained some knowledge, they struggled more with variations and new conditions, scoring only 0.72 on completely new cases. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and their future patients by improving their diagnostic skills.

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This study looked at how drinking alcohol affects the chances of being hospitalized after a fall in adults aged 40 to 79. It found that people who drank moderately (up to 28 units of alcohol a week) had a lower chance of being hospitalized for falls, with a risk reduction of about 12% compared to non-drinkers. However, drinking too much—more than 28 units a week—increased the risk of hospitalization by 40%. Who this helps: This information is beneficial for older adults and healthcare providers aiming to prevent falls.

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This study looked at brain waves, called sharp wave ripples (SWRs), that play a crucial role in forming memories and planning behaviors. Researchers found that disturbances in these brain waves are linked to problems in memory, particularly in early Alzheimer's disease and temporal lobe epilepsy. Understanding these disruptions is important because it could lead to better treatments for these conditions, especially since these brain waves may also serve as indicators of disease progression. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer's disease and temporal lobe epilepsy, as well as doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a specific circular RNA called hsa_circ_PVT1 to understand its role in laryngeal cancer. Researchers found that higher levels of this RNA were present in laryngeal cancer tissues, and reducing its levels slowed down cancer growth by affecting certain signaling pathways. By targeting hsa_circ_PVT1, they could potentially develop new treatments for laryngeal cancer, which is important for improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with laryngeal cancer by providing new treatment options.

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Researchers studied how the habenula, a brain region involved in responding to threats, affects how animals react to stress throughout the day and night. They found that changes in the habenula’s internal clock influence anxiety responses; specifically, when signals indicating danger were introduced, zebrafish showed less anxiety during the day than at night. This research is important because it helps us understand how our body’s daily rhythms can influence how we react to stress, potentially leading to better treatments for anxiety disorders. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with anxiety and mental health professionals looking for effective therapies.

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This study looked at how medications with anticholinergic properties might impact the risk of older adults being hospitalized due to falls and fractures. Researchers followed nearly 25,640 people aged 40 to 79 for about 19 years and found that those using these medications had a higher risk of hospitalization—specifically, the overall rate was 5.8%. For every increase in anticholinergic cognitive burden score, the risk of hospitalization for falls also increased significantly, with those using more potent medications being at a 39% to 42% higher risk compared to those not using them. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who take these medications, their doctors, and caregivers looking to reduce fall risks.

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This study looked at creating a 3D printed heart model using detailed scans of a preserved heart to help medical students learn anatomy. Researchers found that their 3D model was accurate, flexible, and easy to distinguish, which students appreciated—most rated it as helpful for learning. This matters because it could improve how anatomy is taught, giving students a better way to understand the heart's structures. Who this helps: Medical students studying anatomy.

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This study looked at how a compound called NAD+ affects a model of multiple sclerosis (MS) in mice. The researchers found that treating mice with NAD+ reduced inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath around nerves, leading to lower disease severity scores and a slight delay in the onset of symptoms. Specifically, NAD+ treatment increased the number of certain immune cells that help reduce inflammation and changed the levels of several important proteins related to immune response. Who this helps: This benefits patients with multiple sclerosis by suggesting a new potential treatment option.

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This study looked at tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) that carry RNA and their role in cancer. Researchers found that these EVs have different types of RNA that help cancer cells grow and spread. Specifically, they discovered that RNA from EVs plays a key role in cancer's development and how cancer cells communicate with other cells, which is important for understanding cancer progression and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing insights that could lead to better cancer treatments.

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This study focused on developing a new method called QuantICV for measuring cell health in tiny 3D tissue cultures used for drug testing. Researchers found that this technique effectively counted live and dead cells, matching results from traditional methods in larger cultures. They confirmed that when testing a drug called Gefitinib, the method could differentiate the responses of regular and aggressive cancer cells, which is crucial for understanding how to treat different types of tumors. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer by improving drug testing methods used by doctors.

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This research paper reviews the findings from 39 studies on heart valve disease in Malaysia published between 2000 and 2016. It highlights important information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment outcomes of these conditions, helping to improve the understanding of how heart valve disease affects Malaysians. The research emphasizes the need for more studies to better address this health issue in the future. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart valve disease and healthcare providers in Malaysia.

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This study looked at how to predict whether women who have had a cesarean section can successfully have a vaginal birth afterward (called TOLAC). Researchers analyzed data from 498 women and found that using a scoring system based on six factors—like cervical score, fetal weight, and body mass index—helped assess the likelihood of a successful vaginal delivery. The best forecasting method was the one that combined these factors, providing valuable information for pregnant women considering TOLAC. Who this helps: This helps patients planning to attempt a vaginal birth after a cesarean section.

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This research reviewed studies on blood markers that could help diagnose and manage osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer most common in children and young adults. Out of 286 studies reviewed, 24 were relevant, revealing that various blood biomarkers can predict patient outcomes. Identifying these markers is important because they may lead to better treatments and monitoring for patients with osteosarcoma. Who this helps: Patients with osteosarcoma and their doctors.

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This study looked at how medical students diagnose chest X-rays to see if a certain way of thinking, called "system-2 thinking," has a clear connection to brain activity. Researchers found that students were much more accurate—85% correct—when identifying cases they had practiced versus those they hadn’t. Additionally, their response times were quicker for practiced cases, and only the unpracticed cases showed specific brain activation, indicating that different types of thinking are used for different tasks. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and their educators by improving diagnostic training methods.

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This study looked at the role of a specific signaling pathway (p38MAPK/SGK1) in the behavior of immune cells called macrophages in a model of multiple sclerosis (MS). The researchers found that this pathway is necessary for changing macrophages in a way that could help lessen the severity of MS symptoms, with chitin-promoted changes reducing disease severity by a significant amount. Understanding this relationship could lead to new treatments for MS, helping to manage the disease more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple sclerosis.

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This research paper looks at studies on aortic diseases, such as aneurysms and congenital issues, that were conducted in Malaysia from 2000 to 2016. Out of 213 papers found, 60 were closely examined, revealing important information about how these diseases are handled, their prevalence, and how well treatments work in Malaysia. The findings highlight gaps in current research and suggest that improvements are needed in managing these conditions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with aortic diseases and healthcare providers in Malaysia.

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This study examined the use of advanced 3D printing technology to create realistic models of human airways for training doctors in bronchoscopy, a procedure used to examine the lungs. Researchers created models that accurately represent different airway conditions, including one normal airway and others affected by a tumor and a goitre. All five expert doctors who tested the models agreed they were effective for training, noting their flexibility and anatomical accuracy, and recommended further improvements to enhance their realism. Who this helps: This helps training doctors and medical professionals, especially those learning bronchoscopic techniques.

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Researchers studied a 48-year-old woman with worsening pain in her left hip and weakness in her left leg. Imaging showed that a space in her hip called the ischiofemoral space was too narrow, causing swelling in nearby muscles and nerves. This condition is known as ischiofemoral impingement syndrome, which can lead to pain and mobility issues, emphasizing the need for proper diagnosis and treatment. Who this helps: Patients suffering from hip pain and weakness.

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This study looked at the role of a molecule called MALAT1 in rats that suffered a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Researchers found that when they reduced MALAT1, the rats showed better heart function, with improvements in measurements like ejection fraction and less heart tissue damage after two weeks. Specifically, the rats with reduced MALAT1 had a ejection fraction and fractional shortening that improved significantly compared to those with higher levels of MALAT1. Who this helps: This research helps patients who have experienced heart attacks by highlighting a potential target for improving heart recovery.

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This research studied how medical students felt about using three-dimensional (3D) printed models of the upper limb for learning anatomy compared to traditional plastinated specimens. The students (15 in total) found the 3D models to be accurate and beneficial due to their color-coded features, flexibility, and ease of handling, although they noted that these models looked less realistic. The findings suggest that 3D printed models can be a helpful addition to traditional learning methods in anatomy education. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators in anatomy programs.

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This study looked at a new method of repairing the airway after removing a bronchogenic cyst, a type of mass that can form in the chest and is often found by chance. The researchers successfully used a robotic technique to remove the cyst from a 45-year-old woman, and when a tear in the bronchus (the airway) occurred, they repaired it using a 2.4-centimeter piece of tissue from the heart, all done in about 3 hours. The patient went home just 2 days after surgery, highlighting that this approach is effective and could improve recovery times in similar surgeries. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing bronchial repairs after cyst removal, particularly those undergoing robotic surgery.

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Researchers studied the effects of a compound called nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for multiple sclerosis (MS). They found that NDGA significantly reduced EAE's progression by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting it could be a promising treatment option. This matters because if NDGA is effective, it could lead to new therapies for managing MS symptoms and slowing down the disease. Who this helps: Patients with multiple sclerosis and autoimmune diseases.

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This study looked at using robotic surgery to remove a rare type of lung tumor called a carcinoid tumor from a patient’s left lung lobe. The researchers successfully performed a sleeve lobectomy (removing part of the lung and repairing the bronchus) using a robotic system, which offered precision in the surgery. This approach is significant because it combines advanced technology with effective treatment for a type of tumor that typically requires surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with lung carcinoid tumors by providing them with a minimally invasive surgical option.

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This study explored how energy levels affect the growth and nutritional quality of broccoli sprouts. Researchers found that adding a substance called ATP boosted the levels of important nutrients and antioxidants in the sprouts, with a significant increase in key components from 38.82 to 142.69 mg per 100 grams. In contrast, another treatment that lowered energy levels slowed down growth and reduced nutritional value. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and health-conscious consumers looking for nutrient-rich foods.

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This research focused on female sex workers aged 35 and older in six cities in China, examining their condom use and rates of syphilis infection over a three-year period. The study found that consistent condom use increased from 46.9% to 64.3%, and syphilis infection rates decreased from 15.9% to 7.2%. These findings are important because higher condom use correlates with lower sexually transmitted infections, helping to protect the health of this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This information benefits female sex workers and public health officials working on infection prevention strategies.

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This study looked at how α-lipoic acid (LA) might protect the nervous system in a long-term model of multiple sclerosis (MS) using animals. The researchers found that, after 180 days, animals treated with LA had healthier nerve fibers, lower inflammation, and better overall nerve function compared to those that did not receive LA treatment. These findings suggest that LA could play a significant role in treating MS by reducing damage and enhancing recovery. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple sclerosis.

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This study investigated how oxidative stress and a specific signaling pathway (p38MAPK-SGK1) are involved in multiple sclerosis (MS) using a mouse model. The researchers found that both oxidative stress and the p38MAPK-SGK1 pathway contribute to nerve damage in MS, and treatments with a p38 inhibitor and an antioxidant significantly slowed the disease's progression. These findings are important because they highlight potential new targets for therapies to help manage MS. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple sclerosis.

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This study looked at new tools, called biomarkers, which can help identify people at high risk of heart problems before they occur. The researchers found several promising biomarkers that can predict heart attacks and related events, such as cardiac troponin and various inflammatory markers, improving early diagnosis and risk assessment. This is important because it can lead to better prevention strategies and save lives by identifying at-risk individuals sooner. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of cardiovascular disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well different methods could identify who wrote a piece of text in English, Chinese, and Arabic from 2011 to 2016. The researchers found that while advancements were strong for English and Arabic—showing significant improvement—progress for Chinese was much slower due to its complex writing system. Additionally, they noted that larger datasets made it harder to accurately identify writers. Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers working on text identification technologies.

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This study looked at how preoperative chemotherapy affects long-term survival in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. Out of 73 patients treated, 62.5% were alive five years after treatment when they responded well to chemotherapy, compared to 41.7% for those who didn't respond. This matters because chemotherapy before surgery can significantly improve survival rates for patients battling this type of cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced tongue cancer and their doctors in deciding treatment options.