CHARLES HARWOOD FUNDERBURK JR., MD

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The study focused on a rare condition called tuberous breast deformity in a 12-year-old boy who had unusual breast shape and enlargement. The surgical treatment involved removing excess breast tissue and skin and transplanting the nipple, which resulted in a satisfactory appearance and good patient satisfaction after six months. This matters because it provides a new approach to treating a condition that has not been well-studied in boys, helping to improve their body image and quality of life. Who this helps: This helps prepubescent boys dealing with tuberous breast deformities.

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This study examined how the color of crapemyrtle flowers affects the populations of a plant-eating insect called Frankliniella bispinosa and its predator, Orius insidiosus. Researchers found that both the herbivores and their predators preferred white flowers over other colors. The white 'Acoma' flowers not only attracted more predators but also prevented the plant-eating insects from increasing in number, showing that these flowers are very effective in managing pest populations. Who this helps: This benefits gardeners and landscapers looking to control pests naturally.

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This study examined brain samples from people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) to identify specific proteins that are significantly altered compared to healthy individuals and those with other brain disorders. They found 81 proteins that were notably different in AD patients, including known ones like beta-amyloid and tau, and newly recognized ones like serine protease 15 and 14-3-3 eta. This research is important because it helps us understand the unique features of Alzheimer's and could lead to new treatments for the disease. Who this helps: Patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how genetics and environmental factors interact to influence Parkinson's disease using fruit flies as a model. Researchers found that exposure to the herbicide paraquat caused symptoms similar to Parkinson's in male fruit flies more quickly than in females. They discovered that mutations affecting dopamine levels played a crucial role; in particular, boosting dopamine production helped protect against damage from paraquat, while reducing dopamine made fruit flies more susceptible. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying Parkinson's disease and may inform treatments for patients.

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This study looked at how children and teenagers in a Florida town view political legitimacy and how that influences their opinions on political protest and violence. The researchers found that beliefs in political legitimacy significantly affect how young people feel about political violence, but these beliefs do not play a major role in their views on protest actions. Understanding these connections is important because it helps shed light on what influences young people's views on serious political issues. Who this helps: This helps educators and policymakers understand youth attitudes towards political actions.

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This study looked at how a synthetic version of somatostatin, a hormone that can stop the release of other hormones, affects the levels of growth hormone (GH), insulin, and glucagon in sheep. The researchers found that when they infused somatostatin, it reduced GH levels significantly—by about 50% and up to 80%—after a specific treatment that normally raises GH levels. This is important because it could help us understand how hormone release works in the body, which might inform treatments for hormone-related issues. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers studying hormone treatments.