Justin J McGraw

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This study looked at how one day of less physical activity affects the body's response to exercise the next day. Researchers found that after a day of reduced activity (averaging about 3,581 steps), there were changes in 1,403 genes related to metabolism, inflammation, and immunity during exercise compared to a normal activity day (averaging 11,069 steps). These findings highlight that even a single day of inactivity can significantly impact how the body reacts to exercise, which is important for creating effective exercise guidelines. Who this helps: This helps patients trying to improve their health through exercise and doctors advising them on activity levels.

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This study looked at two types of mesh used for repairing ventral hernias in patients with infected or contaminated wounds: a resorbable biosynthetic mesh placed on top (onlay) and a biologic mesh placed underneath (underlay). Out of 94 patients, those with the biosynthetic mesh had significantly fewer surgical site problems (47% compared to 72%) and required fewer additional surgeries for these issues (19% versus 38%). These findings are important because they suggest that using resorbable biosynthetic mesh may lead to better recovery outcomes and lower costs for patients facing complicated hernia repairs. Who this helps: Patients with ventral hernias in contaminated surgical situations.

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This study looks at how swelling and evaporation affect the surface patterns of thin layers of hydrogel, a soft material. Researchers found that when the hydrogel swells, it develops surface creases that depend on its initial thickness, with thicker films creating longer creases. They also discovered that evaporation can significantly change these patterns after swelling, especially if the hydrogel reaches a certain thickness during the process. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and engineers working on materials used in medical devices and therapies.

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This study looked at different methods of rebuilding the area after a surgical procedure called abdominoperineal resection (APR), which is often done for cancers of the rectum. Researchers followed 80 patients who had reconstructive surgery using three types of skin flaps: VRAM, gracilis, and omental. They found that while 72.5% of patients experienced complications, those who received gracilis flaps had a significantly lower chance of developing a specific complication called enterocutaneous fistula compared to those who received VRAM flaps. Who this helps: This information helps patients undergoing APR by informing their doctors about safer reconstruction options.

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This study looked at a new method for creating tiny liquid droplets on demand by using short bursts of pressure in a microfluidic device. Researchers found that this approach allows for making droplets of different sizes and quantities, even when the pressure exceeds normal limits, which traditional methods couldn't handle. This is important because it improves the ability to produce specific droplet shapes and volumes needed for various applications, potentially enhancing medical testing and drug delivery. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving medical tests and treatments that rely on precise droplet sizes.

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This study looked at why people from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to participate in screenings for colorectal cancer using a simple stool test called fecal occult blood testing (FOBT). Researchers reviewed 48 studies involving over 2,200 people and found 30 reasons that prevent participation, including social and economic factors, as well as issues with healthcare systems. Improving relationships between patients and healthcare providers is crucial for increasing participation and ensuring that everyone has the same chance of being screened for cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those in disadvantaged communities.

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This study looked at two different surgical techniques used in young children with small jaws (mandibular distraction osteogenesis) and how these methods impact dental health. Researchers found that children who had the oblique osteotomy were much more likely to experience dental issues—specifically, they had 13 times greater odds of missing teeth and 39 times greater odds of any dental injury compared to those who had the inverted-L technique. This is important because choosing the right surgical method can help prevent dental problems later on. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by providing information that can lead to better surgical choices.

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This study looked at a 45-year-old woman who had severe complications due to illegal silicone injections in her buttocks, which caused infections and tissue damage. The researchers used a complex surgical technique involving flaps from her abdomen and special blood vessel loops to successfully reconstruct her buttocks, allowing her to regain the ability to sit comfortably and be happy with her appearance after 10 months. This matters because it shows a safe and effective way to fix serious damage from unsafe cosmetic procedures. Who this helps: Patients who suffer complications from unauthorized silicone injections.

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This study looked at how a new way of measuring Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can give better insights into their impact on health and substance use. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 9,000 adults in Utah and found that a three-factor model of ACEs showed strong connections to health problems and substance use. For example, those with higher ACE scores were linked to poorer health (health β = 0.83) and increased substance use (substance use β = 0.14). This matters because it suggests that a more nuanced approach to measuring ACEs may lead to better understanding and treatment of their effects. Who this helps: Patients affected by ACEs and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined a specific questionnaire used to check for recurrence of a type of hernia after surgery. Researchers found that the Ventral Hernia Screening (VHS) tool was not very effective: it only correctly identified 40% of patients with a recurrence, and just 5.7% of those who tested positive actually had a recurrence. This is important because it shows that many patients might not realize they have a recurring hernia, indicating the need for better ways to monitor for this issue after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients who have had hernia surgery.

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This study focused on testing a model that predicts the likelihood of patients developing incisional hernias after colorectal surgery. Researchers examined data from 802 patients, finding that 24% of them developed a hernia within two years. The model showed moderate accuracy in predicting hernias, which can help doctors better identify patients at higher risk and improve their surgical care. Who this helps: This research benefits surgeons and colorectal cancer patients by enhancing surgical decision-making and patient management.

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This study focused on how certain rats, which prefer alcohol, respond to sugary solutions compared to other rats. The researchers found that these alcohol-preferring rats showed a different reaction to sugar rewards—specifically, they reacted similarly to different sugar concentrations without clearly favoring one over the other. This suggests that they may have a reduced sensitivity to rewards, which could make them more likely to develop addictive behaviors, such as drinking more alcohol. Who this helps: This research helps patients struggling with addiction by highlighting the differences in reward sensitivity that may contribute to their behaviors.

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This study looked at how problematic pornography use (PPU) is connected to suicidal thoughts in different groups of people. They found that among college students (422 participants), PPU was linked to a higher likelihood of thinking about suicide, and in a larger group of U.S. adults (1,455 participants), those with PPU reported more past-month suicidal thoughts as well. Understanding this relationship matters because it can guide mental health professionals in addressing the suicidal feelings of individuals struggling with PPU. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with problematic pornography use and mental health professionals treating them.

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This study looked at how effective a surgical technique called microvascular free flap reconstruction is for repairing soft tissue damage around the elbow. Out of 21 patients who had this surgery over a 15-year period, all successfully recovered their limbs, and 47% were able to bend and straighten their elbow normally about a year after the procedure. This research shows that this type of surgery can effectively restore elbow function and save limbs after severe injuries, which is important for helping patients regain mobility and quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with severe elbow injuries.

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This study looked at two types of surgeries for repairing ventral hernias: one that includes a panniculectomy (removal of excess skin and fat) and one that does not. The research found that while both surgery methods had low rates of issues like hernia recurrence and complications, the combination surgery had higher rates of delayed healing (44% compared to 4%) and fluid buildup (seromas) (24% compared to 4%). However, patients in both groups reported significant improvements in their quality of life after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with ventral hernias considering surgery, especially those dealing with excess skin or fat.

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This study looked at how well acellular dermal matrices, a type of skin substitute, work for repairing large defects in the nose after Mohs surgery, which is a treatment for skin cancer. Researchers reviewed the cases of 51 patients over 12 years and found that the reconstruction was successful in 94.2% of cases. The average time for the skin to heal completely was about 28 days, and the overall complication rate was low at 9.6%, with larger defects being more likely to cause complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from nasal surgery due to skin cancer, as it offers an effective reconstruction option with minimal risks.

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This study looked at a surgical technique called Fleur-de-lis panniculectomy, which can take a long time and has certain risks. Researchers compared two methods of closing the surgery: one using a special absorbable stapler and the other using traditional stitches. They found that the stapler reduced surgery time from about 125 minutes to about 67 minutes, while keeping recovery and appearance results the same. Most importantly, patients who had the stapler reported better quality of life improvements in six out of nine areas compared to those with stitches. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing Fleur-de-lis panniculectomy by reducing their surgery time and improving their recovery experience.

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This study looked at the trends in matching applicants to microsurgery fellowships from 2019 to 2022, comparing them to earlier data from 2016 to 2018. The analysis showed that while the number of fellowship programs and positions increased, the number of applicants per position decreased, leading to a higher match rate of 80.2% in the more recent period, compared to 67.8% earlier. However, by 2022, a record low was reached, with only 75.4% of available positions filled. Who this helps: This helps future microsurgery fellows and residency programs by providing insights into the competitive landscape of fellowship matches.

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This study looked at trends in matching applicants to independent plastic surgery residency programs from 2019 to 2022. They found that while more applicants (42.3%) were trying to get into these programs, the actual matching rate dropped from 82% to 56%. The research revealed that graduates from U.S. allopathic schools, high test scores, and more interviews increased the chances of success, but many programs are considering cutting their independent tracks due to decreasing numbers of available spots. Who this helps: This information benefits medical students interested in plastic surgery and program directors making decisions about residency offerings.

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This study looked at over 340 patients who had surgery for a ventral hernia using a specific type of mesh from 2015 to 2021. Researchers found that 4.3% of these patients experienced mesh exposure, with higher risks for those with diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The results matter because they highlight important risk factors and show that, even when mesh exposure occurs, most patients healed well and kept their original mesh. Who this helps: This information is useful for patients with ventral hernias, especially those with diabetes or COPD, as well as their doctors.

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In this study, researchers created artificial fish using computer models and placed them in virtual environments to see if they could develop social behaviors similar to real fish. They found that when these artificial fish were given specific rewards and learning techniques, they started to behave socially, such as forming groups and preferring to interact with their own kind. This is important because it shows that even artificial systems can learn complex social behaviors, which can help us understand how such behaviors develop in real animals and may have applications in artificial intelligence. Who this helps: This benefits researchers in both biology and artificial intelligence.

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Researchers studied the effects of different treatments on pig livers that had experienced severe injury due to lack of blood flow. They found that a specific treatment called regulated hepatic reperfusion at a subnormal temperature (RHR-S) significantly improved liver health, reducing harmful enzyme levels and signs of damage. This treatment also boosted the liver's mitochondria function and activated genes that help the liver heal itself, potentially leading to better outcomes after liver transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing liver transplantation and improves outcomes for transplant doctors.

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This study looked at how conversations about healthy eating and exercise between romantic partners affect their willingness to engage in these healthier behaviors. It found that when partners deliver messages that might seem threatening, it can lead to resistance instead of motivation. Specifically, positive messages that still seem threatening increased resistance, reducing healthy eating and exercise; however, using polite communication strategies helped lower that resistance. Who this helps: This research benefits couples looking to support each other in making healthier lifestyle choices.

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This study looked at the outcomes of a medical procedure called transarterial embolization (TAE), used to stop severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Out of 269 patients treated, 25% experienced rebleeding, and 26% died within 30 days. However, after the procedure, 85% of patients showed no new harmful changes in their stomach or intestines, suggesting TAE is generally safe and effective. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how different beliefs related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affect depression and suicide risk among sexual minorities who are current or former members. Researchers found that those with nonaffirming beliefs reported higher levels of depression, particularly linked to feelings of internalized stigma, while affirming beliefs did not show this connection. This is important because it highlights how certain religious beliefs can significantly impact mental health in this group, suggesting that supportive beliefs could help reduce the risk of depression. Who this helps: This helps sexual minority individuals in the Latter-day Saint community and mental health professionals working with them.

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This study investigated how tiny charged particles behave when they are close to charged surfaces in fluid flows. Researchers found that adjusting the amount of salt in the surrounding fluid greatly affected how these particles spread out, leading to a tenfold decrease in their movement compared to when they do not interact with the surface. This is important because understanding these interactions could help improve processes in fields like drug delivery and material science. Who this helps: Patients receiving medication through nanoparticles and scientists developing advanced treatments.

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This study looked at how completing dedicated research training affects the career success of plastic surgeons in the U.S. It found that surgeons who completed research training were more likely to become full professors (31.4% vs. 24.1%), secure National Institutes of Health funding (18.4% vs. 6.5%), and have higher research impact scores. This matters because it shows that investing time in research training can lead to better career outcomes for plastic surgeons, which can ultimately improve the field as a whole. Who this helps: This helps plastic surgery trainees and academic institutions.

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This study looked at a new type of surgical graft made from pig skin that has antimicrobial properties, used to repair hernias in 75 patients, average age 59. The researchers found that 14.7% of patients had complications needing treatment within the first 45 days, and 20% experienced issues after that. However, only 5.8% had a hernia return, and 10.7% needed another surgery within two years, while patients reported significant improvements in their quality of life. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing hernia repair surgery.

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This study looked at how religion and spirituality affect the health of sexual and gender minorities (SGMs). Researchers proposed a new model that outlines five key ideas about how stress related to being part of a minority group, and religious beliefs can either support or harm health. They found that these relationships can be influenced by factors like acceptance in religious groups and how strongly individuals identify with their sexual or spiritual identities. This matters because understanding these connections can help improve health outcomes for SGMs. Who this helps: This helps sexual and gender minorities and the healthcare providers who serve them.

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This study explored the effectiveness of a training program designed to help mental health organizations and therapists better support LGBTQ+ clients. The training, called the Sexual and Gender Diversity Learning Community (SGDLC), was tested against a control group and showed positive results: organizations that received the training improved on 10 out of 18 items related to LGBTQ+ climate, while the control group only improved on 5. Therapists who participated in the training reported significant increases in their supportive attitudes and practices. Who this helps: This benefits LGBTQ+ patients seeking mental health services.

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This study looked at how satisfied patients are after having their breast implants removed due to breast implant illness (BII). Of the 24 patients surveyed, 70% felt better overall after the surgery, reporting relief from common symptoms like chest pain and headaches. The research found that quicker removal times can lead to fewer ongoing symptoms, while insurance coverage doesn’t seem to affect satisfaction about breast appearance post-surgery. Who this helps: Patients with breast implant illness.

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This study looked at how effective a material called Integra is for rebuilding faces after Mohs surgery, which is used to remove skin cancer. Among 130 patients studied, 90.2% had successful results using Integra, with an average healing time of around 32 days. This method allows for larger facial defects to be treated effectively and helps reduce the need for more complex procedures. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from facial skin cancer treatments.

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This study looked at suicide thoughts and attempts among LGBTQ+ individuals and heterosexual people in Utah. It found that 14.7% of LGBTQ+ individuals reported having suicidal thoughts in the past two weeks, compared to only 3.5% of heterosexuals. Additionally, 37.2% of LGBTQ+ individuals reported a history of suicide attempts, while only 5.8% of heterosexuals did, showing that LGBTQ+ individuals are significantly more at risk for these issues. Who this helps: This helps mental health professionals and support organizations working with LGBTQ+ communities.

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This study looked at how childhood experiences affect suicidal thoughts and attempts in both sexual minorities and heterosexuals in Utah. Researchers found that sexual minorities reported higher levels of negative childhood experiences and more suicidal thoughts, with 45% of sexual minorities indicating such thoughts compared to 15% of heterosexuals. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving mental health support and prevention strategies for at-risk groups in Utah. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, and mental health professionals working with them.

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This study looked at suicidal thoughts among sexual minorities in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), comparing those who are active in their faith with those who are not. Researchers found that both active and nonactive Latter-day Saint sexual minorities had similar levels of suicidal thoughts and feelings of minority stress, but active members felt more connected to their faith. Factors that increased suicidal thoughts included struggles with religious beliefs and internalized negative feelings about being a sexual minority, while support from family and friends helped reduce these thoughts. Who this helps: This study helps sexual minority individuals in the LDS community and their families by highlighting the importance of support and acceptance.

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This study looked at how being religious affects the health of sexual minority individuals, specifically focusing on feelings of internalized homonegativity (the negative feelings LGBTQ+ people might have about their own sexuality) and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. It included 1,317 sexual minority participants and found that, while religiousness didn't directly improve or worsen mental health outcomes, those who attended religious services regularly had lower levels of depression linked to internalized homonegativity. This is important because it shows that religious involvement can help mitigate some negative feelings about being a sexual minority, which can inform better healthcare and policies for these communities. Who this helps: This helps sexual minority individuals and healthcare providers.

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This research looks at a specific type of immune cell called γδ T cells, which help the body fight tumors. The study highlights how these cells are activated by certain signals that increase in tumors, and discusses a particular group of these cells found in the skin that plays a key role in recognizing and destroying cancer cells. The findings suggest that targeting the signals that activate γδ T cells could improve cancer treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing cancer treatment.

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This study looked at how using a CT scan before certain procedures can help doctors treat patients with serious abdominal and pelvic injuries. Researchers found that patients who had a CT scan before their procedure were more likely to successfully receive treatment for their injuries, with a success rate of 65.8% compared to 44.8% for those who did not have a CT scan. Additionally, having a CT scan led to reduced use of contrast dye and fewer blood transfusions during treatment, which is important for patient safety. Who this helps: This benefits patients with abdominal and pelvic trauma by improving their treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at how fluids move through flexible, small channels, which is important for both biology and technology. The researchers measured how long it takes for the flow to settle after a change in pressure, finding that this "relaxation time" can vary dramatically, sometimes over 10 years in certain conditions. Understanding these dynamics helps improve how microfluidic devices work, which are used in various medical and scientific applications. Who this helps: This helps researchers and engineers working on medical devices and diagnostics.

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This study looked at a new surgical technique called thoracic duct lymphovenous bypass, which can help patients whose thoracic duct (a major lymphatic vessel) is blocked. Researchers followed nine patients who underwent this surgery from 2019 to 2022 and found that while their heart rates increased right after the operation, this change settled down within a few hours. The surgery was generally safe and well tolerated, even for patients with heart or lung issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with thoracic duct obstructions and their doctors.

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This study looked at how certain polymer solutions behave near surfaces, focusing on their movement and interactions with materials like glass. Researchers found that the charge of the polymers is important for their flow; specifically, neutral polymers stick to surfaces, while charged (anionic) polymers show a property called "slip" that changes based on how fast they are moving. By examining these behaviors, the researchers aim to provide a foundation for further investigations into how the structure and chemistry of materials affect fluid movements. Who this helps: This benefits scientists and engineers working with complex fluids in industries like pharmaceuticals and materials science.

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This study looked at how cancer treatments can affect heart health, as heart disease is a major issue for people who survive cancer. Researchers found that understanding how cancer and heart medications interact is crucial for preventing harmful side effects. By working together, doctors from different specialties can better manage these interactions and improve patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer and heart disease, along with their doctors.

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This study looked at how traditional ideas of masculinity affect men’s use of health services in Australia across different age groups. Researchers found that men who strongly identify with traditional masculine norms are less likely to regularly use primary and preventative health services, with this effect varying by age group. For example, younger men are not as influenced by these norms as older men, but they still demonstrate a lower health service use compared to women. Understanding these dynamics can help health practitioners develop strategies to encourage men to seek medical care. Who this helps: This benefits men seeking better health outcomes and healthcare providers looking to improve health service engagement among male patients.

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This study focused on how a protein called JAML helps boost the immune response of specific T cells against tumors. Researchers found that when they removed JAML in mice, tumors grew faster, and T cells were less effective. However, treating the mice with an antibody that activates JAML slowed tumor growth, improved T cell function, and worked better with existing cancer therapies. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients by identifying new ways to enhance their immune response against tumors.

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Researchers studied how a new drug, MJN110, affects rats' responses to rewards when they see cues like flashing lights or sounds. They found that MJN110 made the rats more motivated to respond to these cues for a sugar reward, increasing their responses and reducing the time it took them to act, compared to when a different drug, rimonabant, was used, which decreased their motivation. This matters because it shows that boosting certain brain signals can enhance motivation for rewards, which could have implications for treating issues like addiction. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with addiction and healthcare providers working to improve treatment options.

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This study looked at a 13-year-old boy who suffered a serious hip injury and later developed complications that could threaten the health of his hip joint. By using a special imaging technique called preoperative angiography, doctors identified a key blood vessel that supplies the hip, which helped them choose a surgical method that would preserve the child's hip instead of needing to replace it. This approach is important because it helps surgeons see how to protect the patient's hip joint and improve outcomes after severe fractures. Who this helps: This benefits young patients with serious hip injuries.