DR. CHARLES ROBERT VOSS, M.D.

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This study looked at how physical activity, measured by both devices and parents' reports, relates to mental health in children and youth with disabilities. Researchers found that when parents reported their children’s physical activity, there was a connection to better mental health, with higher activity linked to lower overall difficulties and fewer internalizing problems. However, the number of steps tracked by fitness devices didn’t show a clear link to mental health outcomes. Understanding these differences matters because it can help develop better ways to support mental health through physical activity. Who this helps: This benefits children and youth with disabilities and their parents.

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This research focused on why some chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients become resistant to imatinib, a common treatment. The study found that a protein called LIN28A is linked to this resistance; it was found at higher levels in resistant cancer cells, and reducing LIN28A made these cells more responsive to the drug again. Targeting LIN28A and specific related proteins could help restore the effectiveness of imatinib and newer treatments in resistant patients. Who this helps: This helps CML patients who are resistant to imatinib and their doctors seeking new treatment options.

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This study looked at how different types of carbon-based materials, like soot and nanotubes, trigger lung inflammation at a cellular level. Researchers found that these materials cause specific inflammatory responses in lung cells, helping to map out how they affect health. This is important because it guides the creation of safer nanomaterials and helps develop tests to assess their risk. Who this helps: This benefits patients with respiratory issues and researchers developing safer materials.

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This study looked at how much physical activity affects the quality of life for children and teens aged 8 to 19 who have type 1 diabetes. Researchers tracked the participants' daily steps for 28 days and measured their overall health and well-being using a questionnaire. They found that on average, participants took about 11,570 steps daily, and those who were more active reported a better physical quality of life, with an average score of 78.8 out of 100. Additionally, physical health scores were, on average, 16% higher than scores related to mental and social well-being, highlighting the importance of focusing on emotional support for these young patients. Who this helps: This research benefits children and teens with type 1 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how type 1 diabetes (T1D) affects the thinking skills of children and teens up to 19 years old. Researchers found that kids with T1D scored slightly lower on IQ tests compared to their peers without T1D, showing an average difference of about 3.5 points. It’s important because understanding these cognitive differences can help identify children who may need extra support in school and other daily activities. Who this helps: This helps children with type 1 diabetes and their families.

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This study looked at how high doses of certain non-genotoxic substances can lead to cancer by killing cells, which may cause dormant cancer cells to grow. Researchers found that this process, linked to inflammation signals in the body, can promote cancer development in already mutated cells. Understanding this mechanism is important because it might change how we evaluate the risks of these substances. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by improving cancer risk assessments.

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This study looked at different programs designed to get kids with type 1 diabetes active and found that only a few showed real improvements. Out of 12 reviewed studies, only three had significant increases in physical activity among participants, who were around 11 years old on average. This is important because children with type 1 diabetes often struggle to meet physical activity guidelines, and better programs could help them stay healthier. Who this helps: This helps children with type 1 diabetes and their families.

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This study examined how exposure to tiny air pollutants during pregnancy affects premature infants born before 32 weeks. The researchers found that pregnant women exposed to fine particulate matter were more likely to experience preeclampsia and their babies had abnormal birth weights for their gestational age. These findings are important because they highlight how air quality can influence serious health issues for both mothers and their very premature infants. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how breeding choices affected seed dormancy in barley, a key crop. The researchers found that specific genetic traits, particularly related to a gene called MKK3, influence how long seeds stay dormant before germinating. This is important because managing dormancy can help reduce crop losses due to bad weather, which costs farmers over 1 billion dollars each year. Who this helps: Farmers and crop breeders.

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This study looked at how family doctors in the rural areas of British Columbia can better help cancer survivors after their treatment. Researchers found that while family physicians generally support taking on this role, there are challenges such as gaps in knowledge and communication, especially for patients without a family doctor. To improve care, the study suggests creating easy-to-follow guidelines, better discharge information from hospitals, and enhancing collaboration among healthcare providers. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer survivors and their family doctors.

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This study looked at how a new deep learning method, called Deep Resolve Boost (DRB), affects the quality of brain MRI images when combined with traditional speed-up techniques. Researchers tested this on 24 patients and found that using DRB made the images clearer and reduced noise, while also decreasing the scan time from 75 seconds to just 39 seconds. This improvement is important because better-quality images can lead to more accurate diagnoses, although there might be some trade-offs with image artifacts. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need brain scans, as well as doctors interpreting the results.

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This study examined how nonstop mutations in certain genes contribute to kidney cancer by affecting the proteins that help control tumor growth. Researchers found that these mutations led to longer than normal protein extensions, which not only decreased the production of important proteins but also altered how the proteins were made. Specifically, they discovered that these mutations can cause severe disease early in affected patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with kidney cancer by offering insights into their genetic mutations and potential treatment options.

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This study looked at how stress and a specific stress marker in hair (hair cortisol) relate to alcohol use among young people aged 14 to 21 in Germany. Researchers initially assessed 1,180 participants and found that, over a year, girls who reported feeling more stressed had higher hair cortisol levels, but there was no direct link between stress levels and drinking alcohol at the start of the study. These findings are important because they suggest that chronic stress may affect how the body responds over time, particularly for girls, which could help target support for those struggling with stress and alcohol use. Who this helps: This helps young people dealing with stress and their doctors.

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This study looked at how accurately the Fitbit ChargeHR can count steps compared to a more precise research device called the ActiGraph, in children and young people with disabilities. Researchers found that the Fitbit counted an average of 1,388 more steps per day than the ActiGraph, showing it tends to overestimate daily activity, but it still provides valuable information about activity levels. They also found that taking at least 12,272 steps per day with the Fitbit can indicate if a child is meeting recommended activity levels. Who this helps: This research helps children and youth with disabilities and their caregivers in tracking physical activity.

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This study looked at a specific protein in malaria parasites called PbGRASP and how it affects the development of the parasite in the liver and its ability to cause disease in mice. Researchers found that while the absence of PbGRASP allowed the parasites to develop in the liver and enter the bloodstream, it led to higher levels of the parasite in the blood but reduced severe symptoms of cerebral malaria. This is important because understanding how GRASP influences the malaria parasite's growth and virulence can help in developing more effective treatments and prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients and researchers working on malaria treatment and prevention.

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This study looked at the experiences of families with children who have congenital heart disease (CHD) and the healthcare providers who care for them. It found that parents often feel overwhelmed by the healthcare system and face emotional trauma while trying to support their child's physical activity and everyday life. The research reveals that better communication and more support for these families are needed, with specific suggestions for improvements. Who this helps: This benefits families of children with CHD and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at how active Canadian children and youth with disabilities are, focusing on their physical activity, screen time, and sleep. It found that these youth only spent about 34 minutes a day in active play, while they averaged over 5 hours of screen time and got nearly 10 hours of sleep. Alarmingly, only 4.6% of them met all three movement guidelines, with older youth being less active and more likely to exceed screen time recommendations. Who this helps: This information is valuable for parents, doctors, and policymakers focused on improving health outcomes for children with disabilities.

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This study looked at how different carbon-based materials affect the lungs and cause inflammation. Researchers used advanced testing on mouse lungs and found that three types of carbon materials triggered inflammation through unique mechanisms: spherical nanoparticles increased certain immune cells without damaging lung cells, while other carbon nanotubes harmed cells and released inflammatory signals. These results are important because they can help develop safer carbon-based materials and improve health outcomes for people exposed to these substances. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with lung conditions or those potentially exposed to carbon-based materials.

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This study explored the genetic makeup of barley by examining the transcription processes in different barley plants. Researchers created a detailed map of barley genes, using data from 20 different types of barley, and found that gene activity varies significantly between different plant types and tissues. Specifically, they observed substantial differences in gene expression, which can influence how barley grows and develops. This work is important because it can help improve barley breeding and crop yields. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural researchers.

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This study looked at the challenges faced by primary care providers (PCPs) in managing cancer survivors’ care in the first five years after treatment. It reviewed 97 articles from various countries and found that the biggest issues include poor communication with cancer specialists, a lack of knowledge among PCPs, limited time for thorough care, and insufficient resources. Improving communication, educating PCPs, and providing more resources can help overcome these challenges and enhance cancer survivorship care. Who this helps: This benefits cancer survivors and their primary care providers.

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This study looked at why many young people aged 14 to 21 who struggle with mental health issues do not seek help from health services. Out of 597 participants with mental disorders, only 32.4% had ever used any health services, and even fewer received therapy or medication (12.1% for therapy and just 5.4% for medication). The research showed that a higher education level made young people less likely to seek help, and stigma around mental health was a key reason for not accessing services. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents and young adults struggling with mental health issues who need support but aren't seeking it.

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This study looked at how childhood maltreatment affects body image in young people aged 14-21 in Dresden, Germany. It found that over one-third (37.4%) of participants experienced maltreatment, mainly through emotional neglect or abuse, and those individuals reported feeling much less satisfied with their appearance than those without such experiences. This matters because it highlights that early negative experiences can lead to lasting issues with body image and self-esteem, which may increase the risk of mental health problems like eating disorders. Who this helps: This helps adolescents and young adults who have experienced maltreatment, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how socially anxious adolescents interact with others and how these interactions affect their mental health, particularly anxiety and depression. Researchers found that while these teenagers had fewer friends they interacted with (about 2.5 on average) compared to their healthy peers (about 3.2), their interactions didn't differ much in frequency or type. However, when they interacted with unfamiliar people, it worsened their depressive symptoms, showing that these social situations are handled poorly by those with social anxiety. Who this helps: This research benefits adolescents with social anxiety and their mental health professionals.

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This study looked at how everyday tension affects disordered eating behaviors in nearly 1,000 adolescents and young adults. It found that those who generally felt more tension were more likely to engage in behaviors like skipping meals, overeating, or feeling a loss of control when eating. This is important because it highlights that managing tension could help reduce unhealthy eating habits in young people. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially adolescents and young adults struggling with eating behaviors.

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Researchers studied how marine reserves affect fishing yields, particularly focusing on the spiny lobster fishery. They found that in the northern region where a network of reserves was established, the catch increased significantly; catch rates went up by about 29% after reserves were put in place. However, in the southern region, the catch declined because fishers moved away from areas that had previously been productive. This matters because successful marine reserves can help sustain fish populations and restore fisheries when fishermen and scientists work together effectively. Who this helps: This helps fishermen and coastal communities that rely on sustainable fishing practices.

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This study examined how environmental pollutants affect the cells in the lungs of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at different disease stages. They found that the most severe cases of COPD had a significant increase in secretory cells, two times more than healthy individuals, while the number of hair-like multiciliated cells decreased by three times, leading to increased resilience against damage from particles like zinc oxide. Understanding these changes is crucial, as they could guide better treatment and prevention strategies for COPD patients. Who this helps: Patients with COPD.

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Researchers studied blood cells from critically ill COVID-19 patients to understand why their immune responses were abnormal. They found that the infection caused significant changes in proteins that help manage immune activity, leading to ineffective responses from important immune cells and heightened signaling that could worsen the disease. These findings identify potential new targets for COVID-19 treatments, including several proteins associated with immune regulation. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from severe COVID-19 and doctors seeking better treatments.

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This study focused on barley and its specialized compounds called hydroxynitrile glucosides (HNGs), specifically looking for ways to reduce a harmful byproduct, ethyl carbamate, formed during whisky production. The researchers identified three wild barley lines with unique HNG ratios, as well as six key genes responsible for HNG production. Understanding these genes allows breeders to develop better malting barley that minimizes ethyl carbamate, improving the quality of whisky. Who this helps: This benefits whisky producers and consumers by ensuring safer, higher-quality whisky.

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This study looked at unhealthy eating habits among teenagers and young adults who do not have eating disorders. Researchers found three main groups: those with no disordered eating behaviors, those with low levels, and those with high mixed unhealthy eating habits. The high mixed group, particularly among females, showed the strongest links to other risk factors for developing eating disorders, highlighting the need for early prevention and intervention. Who this helps: This helps young people and health professionals working to prevent eating disorders.

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This study explored the genetic information from 76 wild and domesticated barley plants to create a comprehensive pangenome, which is a collection of DNA sequences showing genetic diversity within the species. The researchers found new genetic variations linked to disease resistance, plant growth, and starch production, including a specific change that improves powdery mildew resistance and another that affects how barley grains develop. These findings highlight how genetic variations can help barley adapt better to farming conditions, ultimately leading to improved crop yields. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists looking to enhance barley production and disease resistance.

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This study examined anxiety levels in college students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as before and after the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was approved. The study found that while immediate anxiety levels did not change much during the pandemic, trait anxiety, which reflects a person's general tendency to feel anxious, was significantly higher during the pandemic (from 43.01 to 45.10). After the vaccine approval, there was a slight trend toward lower anxiety levels, but it wasn't a significant change. Who this helps: This helps college students who may be struggling with anxiety during and after the pandemic.

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This study looked at how emotions, thoughts, and behaviors change in young people aged 14-21 with anxiety disorders compared to those without. Researchers tracked 1,180 individuals' experiences by checking in with them eight times a day over four days. They found that those currently experiencing anxiety had more ups and downs in their feelings and thoughts, like increased anxiety and avoidance, compared to healthy peers, while those who had recovered from anxiety showed stability similar to healthy individuals. Who this helps: This research benefits young people with anxiety disorders and the professionals treating them.

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This study looked at how much weight adults with binge eating disorder expect to lose and how that relates to their eating habits and concerns about weight. Researchers found that people who binge eat or have strong worries about their weight expect to lose more weight than those who do not; for example, those with severe concerns expected to lose the most. This matters because overestimating weight loss can lead to dissatisfaction and lower chances of success in treatment programs. Who this helps: Patients with binge eating disorder seeking effective weight management strategies.

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This research overview reports on findings presented at the 2022 International Congress by the European Respiratory Society. It highlights how air pollution, climate change, and early life factors impact lung health throughout life, pointing out the Human Lung Cell Atlas as a valuable resource for understanding healthy lung cells and identifying new treatments. The study also emphasizes that different types of therapies for lung diseases should be chosen based on how severe the condition is. Who this helps: Patients with chronic lung diseases and their doctors.

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This study looked at how college students' screen, phone, and social media usage changed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that students spent significantly more time on screens and phones during the pandemic, while their time on social media stayed about the same. This matters because it shows that while students increased their technology use for work and socializing, they were not necessarily using social media more. Who this helps: College students and educators.

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This study looked at how well the Fitbit Charge HR works for tracking physical activity in children and teenagers with disabilities. Out of 157 participants aged 4 to 17, most wore the Fitbit for about 21 days, with girls wearing it more than boys. The findings showed that boys were generally more active, taking about 1,040 more steps per day than girls, and that kids with nonphysical disabilities were also more active than those with physical disabilities. This research is important because it shows that Fitbits can effectively monitor activity levels in young people with disabilities, helping to identify trends and areas for improvement. Who this helps: This helps children and youth with disabilities, their families, and healthcare providers.

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This study focused on understanding how lung fibroblasts from patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) affect the nearby lung cells, known as epithelial cells. Researchers created a lab model using human lung cells to show that fibroblasts from ILD patients caused changes in the behavior of the epithelial cells, which could lead to further lung damage. They found that out of over 2000 proteins examined, 47 were notably different in patients with ILD, highlighting the role of certain proteins, especially Interleukin 11 (IL11), in driving these harmful changes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with interstitial lung disease by identifying potential new targets for treatment.

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This study looked at how avoiding uncomfortable feelings is related to disordered eating behaviors in teenagers and young adults. Researchers asked 1,180 young people in Germany to report their experiences with avoiding feelings and behaviors like skipping meals or binge eating multiple times a day over four days. They found that those who avoided feelings were more likely to engage in all types of disordered eating, which suggests that these eating habits may be a way of coping with negative emotions. Who this helps: This research benefits mental health professionals and young patients struggling with eating disorders.

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This study looked at how confidence in one's abilities (self-efficacy) affects stress and symptoms of depression and anxiety in 1,072 adolescents aged 14 to 21. The researchers found that higher self-efficacy helps reduce the impact of stress on depression, but not on anxiety, in daily life. They also discovered that while self-efficacy can protect against anxiety caused by stress in general, it doesn't seem to work for depression. This matters because it suggests that treatment for depression should focus on stress reduction, while treatment for anxiety might benefit from boosting self-confidence. Who this helps: This helps mental health professionals and therapists working with teenagers.

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This study looked at how well a plant-based nutritional drink works for adults at risk of not getting enough nutrients. Over 28 days, 24 participants used this vegan drink and received dietary advice, leading to significant improvements: the number of people at high risk of malnutrition dropped from 20 to 16, average body weight increased by 0.6 kg, and daily energy intake went up by 387 calories. These findings are important because they show that plant-based nutrition support can effectively help those at risk of malnutrition improve their health and nutrition. Who this helps: This benefits patients who prefer or require plant-based diets.

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This research focused on developing a simple and effective method to study protein complexes affected by chemical changes after they are made, known as post-translational modifications (PTMs). The researchers created a new strategy that uses a specific tag to easily assemble and analyze protein complexes, finding it had a similar effectiveness as previous methods but was more versatile. This is important because understanding these protein interactions can reveal critical information about various biological processes and diseases. Who this helps: Patients and doctors working to understand and treat diseases linked to protein interactions.

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The study focused on a new method called FIND-IT that speeds up the process of identifying and isolating specific genetic changes in plants and microbes. Researchers used this technique on 500,000 barley samples and successfully identified over 125 important genetic variants in less than 10 days. This advancement is crucial for developing crops that can better meet food demands and adapt to climate change. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to improve crop resilience and yield.

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This research studied the use of lung organoids—tiny, lab-grown lung tissue models— to assess the safety of tiny particles, called nanomaterials, that people might inhale. Researchers found that these organoids, which can be created from either human or mouse cells, offer better insights into how these materials affect lung health compared to traditional testing methods. This matters because it can lead to more accurate safety evaluations of inhaled products, ultimately protecting public health. Who this helps: Patients and regulatory agencies overseeing public health.

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This study focused on improving how computers recognize emotions by using crowd-sourced input from people to label emotional expressions in children's faces. The researchers found that when they filtered workers who provided labels, their accuracy in agreeing with standard emotional expressions was very high—100% for happy and neutral emotions, and 88.8% for anger and disgust. This matters because capturing the range of human emotions is more accurate and useful than just providing a single label, making emotion detection in technology more effective. Who this helps: This helps developers of emotion recognition technology, as well as researchers studying emotional responses.