CHARLES B. ROSS, MD

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This study looked at the causes and treatments of malignant glaucoma (MG) using data from a large medical registry in the U.S. Researchers found that 54.5% of MG cases involved patients with pre-existing glaucoma, with cataract surgery being the most common trigger for MG at 26.6%. Initial treatments included medication for 54.8% of patients and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for 31.9%; higher initial eye pressure was linked to a greater chance of needing PPV or additional treatments later. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with glaucoma and their doctors by guiding treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how eye pressure changes after a specific eye surgery called vitrectomy, both on its own and when combined with another procedure called phacoemulsification. They analyzed data from nearly 21,000 patients and found that people with glaucoma experienced a higher chance of a spike in eye pressure after surgery (0.8%) compared to those without glaucoma (0.1%). Overall, those who only had vitrectomy saw an increase in eye pressure after surgery, while those who had both procedures showed a decrease in pressure, which is important for managing eye health. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing eye surgery, especially those with glaucoma.

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The study looked at two children who became seriously ill after receiving incorrectly prepared, overly concentrated formula through feeding tubes. One child, a 5-month-old, was in intensive care, while the other, a 1-year-old at home, also ended up in intensive care due to this issue. These cases highlight the dangers of using improper formulas for children who rely on feeding tubes, as they can quickly become very sick. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially medically fragile children on feeding tubes, and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the outcomes for patients who had objects removed from their eyes, analyzing data from nearly 5,000 cases. It found that while most patients showed significant improvement in vision after two months, certain groups—particularly Black or African American patients and those with specific eye complications—had worse visual outcomes. Understanding these results is important for doctors to better inform and support their patients regarding what to expect after such surgeries. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who undergo eye surgeries and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new surgical approach to treat patients with recurring knee dislocations, known as patellofemoral instability. Researchers found that using a specific technique that combines two surgeries resulted in no patients experiencing re-dislocation after treatment, with only 14.3% facing complications. This is important because it shows promise for improving stability in individuals who suffer from this condition and could lead to better, more reliable treatment options. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with recurring knee dislocations.

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This research studied how to improve access to special education services for children with disabilities by integrating educational support into pediatric healthcare. The EASE Clinic model showed promising results, demonstrating improved coordination and family engagement, which helped reduce inequalities in access to education for marginalized communities. The study emphasizes that combining healthcare with educational advocacy can lead to better developmental outcomes for children and establish educational equity as a key part of their overall health. Who this helps: This benefits children with disabilities and their families by enhancing support systems in healthcare settings.

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This study focused on understanding how different genes interact when modified in human cells using a method called CRISPR-Cas9. The researchers developed a new scoring system, called the quantitative Genetic Interaction (qGI) score, to measure these interactions more accurately. They discovered that a large amount of data variability wasn't related to gene interactions but was due to other factors, which they corrected, leading to a clearer understanding of how about 125,000 gene pairs behave together. This research is important as it helps build a better picture of how gene interactions work in humans, which can improve genetic research and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare professionals working on genetic diseases and therapies.

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This study looked at how depression changes from adolescence into adulthood, using data from over 9,400 participants in a long-term health study. Researchers found five different patterns of depression: most people (66.8%) had minimal symptoms, while some experienced moderate (19.1%) or high levels of depression at certain times, especially among females and non-white individuals. Understanding these patterns helps identify those at risk and tailor interventions to improve mental health across different life stages. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with depression and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how oral morphine is processed in the bodies of healthy children aged 5 to 17 and how genetics might affect its effectiveness and safety. The researchers gave 13 children a dose of morphine and measured how long the drug and its metabolites stayed in their systems, finding that the effects lasted about 74 to 170 minutes depending on the metabolite. They also found that a specific genetic variation in one child was linked to increased pain, suggesting that genetic differences may influence how well morphine works for each child. Who this helps: This helps children who need pain management, as well as their doctors in deciding how to treat them effectively.

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This study looked at a new mentor handbook created to help students in an accelerated medical program at the University of Arizona. Out of 14 mentors, 10 students responded to questions about the handbook, and they reported it was very clear, relevant, and helpful, with 100% satisfaction in clarity and most finding the contact information section especially useful. This matters because it aims to provide better support for students navigating the fast-paced medical education journey. Who this helps: APME students benefit from this support system.

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This study examined whether a treatment called guselkumab helps adults with giant cell arteritis (GCA), a condition that causes inflammation of blood vessels. Researchers found that at week 28, 40% of patients taking guselkumab achieved remission without the need for additional steroid treatment compared to 33% on a placebo, but this difference wasn’t significant. Overall, the study concluded that guselkumab did not improve outcomes for patients with GCA as the primary goal was not met. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors treating patients with giant cell arteritis, as it indicates that guselkumab may not be an effective treatment option.

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This study looked at how different treatments for glaucoma affect the likelihood of needing corneal surgery due to corneal damage. Out of over 7.8 million people, only 0.13% required corneal transplant surgery, but the risk was higher for those who had certain surgical procedures like tube/shunt surgery (6.63 times more likely) and trabeculectomy (3.06 times more likely) compared to untreated patients. In contrast, newer treatments like minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and laser treatment actually reduced the risk of needing corneal surgery. Who this helps: This research benefits glaucoma patients and their doctors by guiding treatment choices to protect eye health.

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This study examined how involving young people more actively in nursing research can improve health outcomes. It found that when youths are engaged as partners rather than just advisors, the research becomes more effective and relevant to the problems they face. Key findings emphasized the need for ongoing involvement, specialized training, and respecting young people's insights, which can lead to better public health results and informed community interventions. Who this helps: This benefits young patients and their communities.

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This study looked at the experiences of young Black women aged 18-20 in foster care who became pregnant and became mothers. Researchers talked to eight women and found that many did not consistently use birth control, which led to unplanned pregnancies. The women reported feeling unprepared for motherhood and received limited support from caregivers and healthcare providers, but they also saw their children as a source of joy and motivation. These findings show that better support and education about sexual health for young people in foster care is essential. Who this helps: This helps young women in foster care who face pregnancy and parenting challenges.

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Researchers studied a specific genetic mutation in the CLDN11 gene that is linked to a brain disorder called hypomyelinating leukodystrophy. They created a special type of stem cell line that carries this mutation to learn more about how it causes the disease. Their work is important because understanding these mutations could lead to better treatments for patients with this condition. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with hypomyelinating leukodystrophy and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new method for detecting pancreatic cancer by analyzing tiny particles in the blood that carry important genetic information and proteins. The research found that this method was able to correctly identify pancreatic cancer with 92% accuracy and distinguished it from non-cancerous conditions like pancreatitis with 83% accuracy. This approach is better than the current standard method, providing a more reliable and less invasive way to diagnose pancreatic cancer, especially in patients over 50. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for pancreatic cancer and doctors diagnosing and monitoring the disease.

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This study looked at how eating ultra-processed foods can harm the heart by increasing inflammation and dysfunction. Researchers found that a protein called calpain-1 contributes to this problem by promoting another protein, HMGB1, which leads to inflammation and heart issues. By blocking calpain-1, they were able to reduce heart inflammation and improve heart function in mice, showing a potential new way to treat heart failure related to unhealthy diets. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of heart failure due to poor diet.

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This study explored how genes interact in human cells by mapping around 89,000 important gene relationships using a method called CRISPR, which looked at almost 4 million gene pairs. The research found that these interactions are organized in ways similar to yeast cells and helped identify roles for lesser-known genes, particularly in relation to cancer. Understanding these gene interactions is crucial for developing targeted treatments for diseases like cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those with cancer, by informing better treatment strategies.

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The study looked at how the dengue virus affects the body by analyzing tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) from patients at different stages of the disease. Researchers found that certain messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in these EVs change as the disease progresses, influencing immune responses and leading to low platelet counts, a condition known as thrombocytopenia. This information is crucial because it helps predict how severe the disease might become, allowing for better management of dengue infections. Who this helps: This helps patients with dengue and their healthcare providers by improving disease monitoring and treatment strategies.

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This paper looks at how the World War I Empyema Commission changed the way doctors treated lung infections. By moving away from immediate open surgery to a more careful approach that included closed drainage and better nutrition, the death rate from these infections dropped significantly, laying the groundwork for modern treatments. These improvements are still important in how we handle lung diseases today in both military and civilian settings. Who this helps: This benefits both patients with lung infections and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how different species of wild baboons and their relatives organize their social groups. Researchers analyzed behavior and relationships across 135 group-years and 28 social groups, and they found that there are two main types of social structures: one is more cohesive and family-focused, while the other is more cliquish and rank-oriented. These findings show that social ties, especially among family members, play a crucial role in how these animals form their communities, which helps us understand their behavior better. Who this helps: This research benefits animal behaviorists and conservationists studying primate social systems.

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This study looked at a new test called the AMDI™ Fast PCR Mini Respiratory Panel, which can quickly detect various respiratory viruses, such as the flu and COVID-19, in less than 10 minutes using a nasal swab. Researchers found that the test reliably detects viruses with a high accuracy—over 99% positivity in moderate samples and no false positives in negative samples. This matters because having a fast and accurate test can help doctors quickly identify and treat patients, preventing further spread of these viruses. Who this helps: Patients with respiratory infections and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how a Mediterranean-style diet modified for New Zealand (called NZMedDiet) affects digestive symptoms in adults who are at risk for heart and metabolic diseases. Researchers found that after 12 weeks, participants on the NZMedDiet reported less severe digestive symptoms, especially in abdominal pain, which dropped by an average score of 0.27 compared to those who didn’t change their diet. This is important because improving digestive health can lead to a better quality of life for these individuals. Who this helps: This helps adults with increased risk for heart and metabolic diseases, particularly those experiencing digestive issues.

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This study looked at the best ways to treat certain brain aneurysms located in the middle cerebral artery using different methods such as microsurgery and endovascular treatments. Researchers analyzed data from 1,060 patients and found that microsurgery had better success rates in closing off the aneurysms, with 95% of cases showing effective results immediately after the procedure, compared to 83% for stent-assisted coiling. It's important because choosing the right treatment can significantly affect patient recovery and complication rates. Who this helps: This benefits patients with middle cerebral artery aneurysms by providing clearer treatment options.

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Researchers developed a new computer model to predict how long patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) might live, focusing on those with severe breathing issues. They analyzed data from nearly 7,000 patients and found that factors like breathing decline and age were particularly important for making these predictions. For instance, patients were grouped by risk level, and those in the high-risk group had a 43% chance of surviving at least eight months, compared to an 85% chance for low-risk patients. Who this helps: This model benefits patients and doctors by providing more accurate survival predictions, which can inform treatment decisions and clinical trials.

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This study looks at the Japan Trench, which experienced a massive earthquake in 2011, and examines why the earthquakes there can be particularly strong. Researchers found that the area has a weak fault zone due to certain types of clay, allowing the ground to slip more easily during an earthquake, which could result in larger shaking. Specifically, they observed that the fault can slip up to 70 meters at its shallowest points, making this region more vulnerable to severe earthquakes compared to other areas with different soil properties. Who this helps: This information benefits earthquake researchers and disaster preparedness planners.

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This study looked at how twelve different food additives affect the gut bacteria of adults with Crohn’s disease and healthy individuals. It found that additives like maltodextrin increased the production of beneficial compounds in both groups, while additives like sodium sulphite and polysorbate-80 modified the gut bacteria structure and decreased the total bacterial count. This research matters because it highlights how certain food additives can impact gut health, which is crucial for managing conditions like Crohn’s disease. Who this helps: Patients with Crohn’s disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how different healthcare professionals can work together to improve the treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It found that by involving nurses and other allied professionals more effectively, the healthcare system can better address problems like unequal access to care and poor patient education. Key strategies include clearer roles for these professionals and sharing successful methods of care. Who this helps: This helps patients with cardiovascular disease by improving their access to comprehensive care.

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This study focused on creating a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program for teenagers who struggle with insomnia and also have mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Researchers collaborated with experts through three rounds of questionnaires, helping to shape a new four-week program that includes both sessions and training for practitioners. The findings underscore the importance of tailoring treatment for adolescents and involving their parents in the process, making it a significant step towards better support for this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents with insomnia and mental health issues, their families, and the professionals helping them.

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This study looked at a rare but serious eye condition called post-injection endophthalmitis (PIE) that can occur after patients receive their first anti-VEGF injection, a common treatment for eye diseases. Out of over one million eyes treated, only 600 (about 0.06%) developed PIE, with symptoms usually showing up 3 to 8 days after the injection. Factors that increased the risk included living in U.S. territories and having previous corticosteroid eye treatments, while not smoking decreased the risk. Who this helps: This research benefits patients receiving anti-VEGF treatments by identifying risk factors for complications, allowing for better monitoring and management.

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This study looked at how genes interact with each other in human cells by analyzing over 4 million mutant cell lines. Researchers created a detailed map of about 90,000 genetic interactions, which helps explain how genes function together and can identify critical roles for genes that are not yet fully understood. This research is important because it can enhance our understanding of cancer genetics and improve treatments by uncovering specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer and their doctors by providing insights into genetic factors that influence treatment options.

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This study looked at how the different arrangements of collagen fibers in human tissues affect their function. Researchers developed a new method called the heterogeneous peridynamic neural operator (HeteroPNO) to analyze and model these variations using digital images of tissue under stress. They found that their approach could successfully determine the fiber orientation and predict how the tissue would respond to different forces, which helps us understand and model biological tissues more accurately. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers studying tissue mechanics and developing treatments for injuries.

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This study looked at how Black and White older adults experience end-of-life care, particularly focusing on the quality of death and the agreement between expected and received care. It found that Black individuals reported feeling better about their death quality compared to White individuals, even though they faced more challenges. Receiving hospice care improved the death experience for Black patients but did not affect the care satisfaction of White patients. This research is important because it points out the need for fair access to quality hospice care and highlights that understanding patients' individual needs is crucial. Who this helps: This research helps patients and healthcare providers by emphasizing the need for equitable and personalized end-of-life care.

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This study focused on improving how scientists analyze groups of genes that share similar functions by using an AI tool called GeneAgent. The researchers found that GeneAgent was more accurate than another AI model, GPT-4, when it came to analyzing 1,106 gene sets, confirming its ability to reduce errors. This matters because accurate gene analysis can lead to better understanding of biological processes and faster advancements in research. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working with genetic data.

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This study looked at hospitals in India that treat people with hemophilia to see how well they meet European care standards and how they can improve. Out of 291 treatment centers contacted, only 30% responded, and just 34% of them met European standards for treatment facilities. The findings show that many centers lack essential resources, like laboratories and qualified staff, which means a new, flexible model for grading these centers could help improve care quality across different regions. Who this helps: This helps patients with hemophilia and their families by ensuring better access to appropriate medical care.

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This study looked at a rare and serious condition called ruptured splenic ectopic pregnancy, where a pregnancy occurs outside the uterus, specifically in the spleen. The case involved a 36-year-old woman who initially showed signs of a different type of ectopic pregnancy, but further tests revealed high pregnancy hormone levels and a rupture in the spleen. Timely recognition and treatment were vital, as misdiagnosis could lead to severe complications. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by improving awareness and diagnosis of splenic ectopic pregnancies.

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This study looked at the outcomes of surgery for patients with corneal opacity, a major cause of vision loss in the U.S. Researchers analyzed data from over 44,000 patients and found that after surgery, vision improved significantly from an average score of 0.56 to 0.72, which means patients could see better post-treatment. The findings highlight that earlier surgical treatment leads to better vision outcomes, especially for patients who start with severe vision issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with corneal opacity and their doctors by emphasizing the importance of timely surgery.

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This study looked at how the seagrass Thalassia testudinum responds when it gets infected by a harmful fungus called Labyrinthula. Researchers found that within 48 hours of infection, the seagrass increased its oxygen use and produced substances to fight off the infection. This is significant because it shows the first evidence of a specific type of response, including the production of chemicals like nitric oxide, that helps seagrass battle pathogens, which is important for the health of marine ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps marine biologists and environmental scientists studying seagrass ecosystems and their resilience to diseases.

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This study looked at how prescribed opioid use affects cognitive function and depression in American Indian elders aged 64-95. Researchers found that while opioid use did not lead to significant changes in cognitive abilities, it was associated with worse quality of life and higher levels of depression, showing a link with a beta coefficient of -14.5 (indicating a notable negative impact on well-being). Understanding this relationship is important as it highlights the need for targeted support for this community, which faces significant health challenges. Who this helps: This helps American Indian elders dealing with chronic pain and mental health issues.

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This study looked at how much adult patients with severe hemophilia in India know about gene therapy and what their concerns are. Out of 415 responses, nearly 50% thought gene therapy was the best treatment option, but only about 31% were willing to join a clinical trial for it. Patients were mostly worried about costs, side effects, and the possibility of serious health issues, showing a clear need for more information about the treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hemophilia and their families by providing insights into their needs for information regarding gene therapy.

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This study looked at misconceptions surrounding electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), commonly known as vaping, and how they impact public health. It found that about 19.6% of U.S. middle and high school students vape, often due to appealing marketing and social trends, while many people incorrectly believe that vaping is safe and emissions are harmless. These misunderstandings can normalize ENDS use and lead to health risks, highlighting the urgent need for education on the dangers of vaping. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially youth and their families, by informing them of the risks associated with vaping.

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This research looked at how effective and safe leflunomide is for treating giant cell arteritis, a condition that can cause headaches and vision problems, while reducing the need for corticosteroids. The study found that about 45% of patients stopped showing symptoms and could stop using corticosteroids after 6 to 12 months, while 48% could keep their symptoms under control with a low dose of corticosteroids. However, nearly 39% of patients reported side effects, and the quality of the included studies was not very high. Who this helps: This helps patients with giant cell arteritis who are seeking alternative treatments to corticosteroids.

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This study looked at how often patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) experience strokes or temporary strokes. It found that between 2.8% and 8.2% of people with GCA can present with these issues, particularly in those over 50. Common symptoms included headaches and pain related to GCA, and many patients showed signs of complications in their blood vessels. Recognizing GCA in these cases is important because it can affect treatment and recovery. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers diagnose and treat older patients at risk for strokes related to GCA.

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This study looked at how well workers in West Virginia's Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services understand and use person-centered, trauma-informed care (PCTIC) techniques. Interviews with 32 professionals from 19 organizations revealed significant knowledge gaps in areas like trauma understanding, behavior support, and access to mental health services. Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving the skills and effectiveness of workers who support trauma survivors in the community. Who this helps: This benefits direct service professionals and the trauma survivors they serve.

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This study focused on improving how gene editing is delivered to the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) using specially designed tiny fat particles called lipid nanoparticles. Researchers found that their method could modify about 12% of the CFTR gene in cells from CF patients, which is a significant improvement compared to previous attempts. These results are important because they show a potential new way to treat cystic fibrosis, a disease currently without a cure. Who this helps: This helps cystic fibrosis patients looking for effective treatments.

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This study looked at how certain genes related to WNT signaling behave in early human development compared to mice. Researchers found that human embryonic stem cells have lower levels of one key gene, TCF7L1, than mouse cells, and they identified differences in how other related genes are expressed as well. These findings highlight that human cells require WNT signaling in a unique way during their early development, which is important for advancing stem cell research and potential therapies. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on stem cell therapies and embryonic development.