CLIFTON THOMAS PANNELL LEWIS, M.D.

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Researchers studied the slipper lobster, a species that could be farmed for food, by examining 38 tissue samples from immature male and female lobsters. They found that certain hormones related to reproduction were more abundant in various tissues, especially in the testis and ovary, which could aid in developing methods to improve lobster farming. This understanding of lobster reproduction may help increase production efficiency in aquaculture. Who this helps: This benefits lobster farmers and the aquaculture industry.

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This study looked at how previous efforts to restore coral in the Florida Keys helped protect two critically endangered species—elkhorn and staghorn coral—during a major heatwave in 2023 that caused widespread coral bleaching. Despite the severe impact, the restoration work done over the past 20 years has built a network of experts and resources, allowing these corals to survive and keep their genetic diversity intact. Specifically, these efforts prevented the total loss of these species in the region, demonstrating the importance of planning and readiness in protecting vulnerable marine life from climate threats. Who this helps: This information benefits conservationists, scientists, and marine ecosystem managers focused on coral preservation.

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The study looked at how doctors communicate the results of whole genome sequencing (WGS) to parents of children with rare diseases, specifically focusing on 10 consultations. Out of the 10 families, seven received a clear genetic diagnosis, two got results that were ambiguous, and one had no clear findings. The research highlights challenges in explaining unexpected or uncertain diagnoses, which can create confusion and stress for families. Who this helps: This research benefits families with children who have rare diseases and the doctors who communicate these complex results.

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This study looked at the relationship between lipoprotein (a) levels and serious heart problems after heart procedures in people with coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes. Researchers found that patients with high lipoprotein (a) levels were 20% more likely to face serious heart issues or die compared to those with lower levels. This matters because understanding these risks can help doctors better manage care for patients undergoing heart procedures. Who this helps: Patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes.

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This study examined how certain proteins, called beta-adrenergic receptors, affect survival rates in patients with oesophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer in the esophagus. The researchers found that patients with high levels of a specific type of beta-adrenergic receptor had better chances of living longer without cancer returning (by about 43% less risk) and improved overall survival (by about 47% less risk), especially those with tumors at the gastro-oesophageal junction, which had an even stronger benefit (about 73% less risk). Understanding these factors can help doctors better predict outcomes and tailor treatment plans for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with oesophageal adenocarcinoma and their doctors.

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This study looked at how much radiation UK orthopaedic surgeons are exposed to while using modern imaging equipment during surgeries. It tracked the radiation doses for 189 surgeons over three months, and none exceeded the yearly limit of 20 millisieverts. However, over half of the surgeons hadn't received recent training on radiation safety, and most weren't being regularly monitored for radiation exposure, highlighting the need for better safety practices in the workplace. Who this helps: This benefits orthopaedic surgeons and ultimately their patients by promoting safer surgery practices.

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The study examined how GLP-1 targeting agents affect treatment outcomes in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Researchers found that patients taking GLP-1 medications during chemotherapy had a significantly lower rate of successful treatment response—30.8% compared to 65% in those not on these drugs. This is important because it shows that GLP-1 drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of crucial cancer therapies, potentially making treatments less successful for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer and their doctors.

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This study examined how certain immune cells in the lungs, specifically a type of macrophage called Ly6G⁺Nur77⁺, respond to allergens, using a mouse model with house dust mite exposure. Researchers found that these macrophages help trigger allergic reactions by capturing allergens and facilitating the movement of other immune cells, which play a role in causing asthma-like symptoms. Notably, when the production of certain chemicals (cysteinyl leukotrienes) was blocked, there was less movement of these immune cells and a decrease in allergic responses. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with allergies and asthma by identifying potential treatment targets.

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This study looked at the safety of bicalutamide, a medication used by transfeminine adolescents and young adults to block male hormones, particularly focusing on its effects on liver enzymes called transaminases. Researchers found that taking bicalutamide for at least ten months did not significantly raise liver enzyme levels compared to other anti-androgen treatments, even though slightly more patients taking bicalutamide had elevated levels (10.7% compared to 1.5%). This matters because it suggests that bicalutamide may be a safe option for these individuals as part of their hormone therapy. Who this helps: Transfeminine adolescents and young adults undergoing hormone therapy.

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This study looked at microplastics on the beaches of Tortuga Bay in the Galápagos Islands, collecting 3,377 samples between 2020 and 2025 with the help of local volunteers. They found that about 93% of these samples were confirmed as plastic, mainly made of low-density polyethylene and polypropylene. The concentration of microplastics rose significantly in 2024, especially in areas where turtles nest, indicating a concerning accumulation linked to changing ocean conditions. Who this helps: This research benefits environmental scientists, conservationists, and local communities working to protect marine ecosystems.

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This study looked at a new digital therapy designed to help military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is typically treated through in-person cognitive behavioral therapy but can be hard to access. Researchers adapted an online program based on veterans' feedback, and in a small test, they found that 50% of participants no longer had PTSD symptoms after using the therapy, while most showed improvements in their condition. This matters because it offers a more accessible treatment option for veterans who struggle with traditional therapy methods. Who this helps: This helps military veterans dealing with PTSD.

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This study looked at the combined effects of two cannabinoids, cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabidiol (CBD), on a type of aggressive breast cancer called triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that is resistant to a common drug called doxorubicin (DOX). The researchers found that the CBC + CBD combination significantly reduced tumor volume by four times compared to untreated tumors and two times compared to each cannabinoid used alone, and it also decreased cancer cell invasiveness by about 55%. This matters because it offers a new potential treatment strategy for patients with drug-resistant TNBC, which currently has limited options. Who this helps: Patients with drug-resistant triple-negative breast cancer.

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This research looked at how different factors affect e-cigarette use among 11-17-year-olds in Europe. The study reviewed 21 pieces of research and found that key influences include ease of access in places like schools, how much e-cigarettes cost, and the ability to verify a buyer's age. Understanding these factors can help shape policies aimed at reducing e-cigarette use among young people. Who this helps: This information benefits policymakers and health advocates working to protect young people.

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This study looked at how certain small particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs), produced by immune cells in the lungs, may contribute to the worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in smokers. Researchers found that these EVs can create more of themselves and cause continued inflammation in the lungs, which leads to conditions like emphysema. Specifically, they found that activated neutrophil-derived EVs led to a cycle of inflammation and damage that can keep spreading, which is particularly concerning for COPD patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with COPD and their healthcare providers by improving understanding of the disease's progression.

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Researchers studied the link between hot flashes and night sweats (known as vasomotor symptoms, or VMS) and the risk of heart failure in midlife women. They followed 2,026 women over about 23 years and found that, despite 32 women developing heart failure, there was no significant connection between the severity of VMS and heart failure occurrences. This matters because understanding whether VMS is a risk factor for heart failure could help in managing women's health during midlife. Who this helps: This helps women in midlife and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied wheat stem rust, a serious disease affecting wheat crops, by analyzing samples from Argentina and Uruguay. They found three main groups (or clonal lineages) of the rust fungus, with one group making up 90% of the samples. This particular group is unique to South America, indicating its continued evolution without mixing with other strains globally, which highlights the need for better monitoring of this disease in the region. Who this helps: This information aids farmers and agricultural scientists in managing wheat crops more effectively.

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This study looked at the different types of psychological therapy offered for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) in Scotland's National Health Services. Researchers surveyed 49 clinicians about their therapy practices and found that most used phase-based approaches, with patients typically receiving between 21 to 30 therapy sessions. Among those who completed therapy, 86% showed improvement, while a small percentage either dropped out or did not improve, highlighting the need for more research to determine the best treatment methods and durations. Who this helps: This helps patients with CPTSD and their healthcare providers.

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This study developed new tools to predict heart and metabolic health issues in young people with psychosis spectrum disorders in the UK. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 26,000 individuals and created models that can predict conditions like metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The models showed strong accuracy, with scores indicating they can help identify at-risk patients effectively; for example, the model for type 2 diabetes had an accuracy score of 0.81. These tools are important because they help doctors manage the physical health of young people with mental health issues, potentially reducing serious health risks. Who this helps: This benefits patients with psychosis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how different types of microplastics in a coastal lagoon affect the bacteria that grow on them. Researchers found that bacteria on microplastics were more diverse than those in the surrounding water, with certain environmental conditions playing a big role in the types of bacteria present. Specifically, they noted that vibrios, which are often of concern for health risks, were more abundant in the water around the particles rather than on the microplastic surfaces themselves. Who this helps: This research benefits environmental scientists and public health officials by providing insights into the risks posed by microplastics in aquatic environments.

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This study looked at a program called the Pathways Enhanced Resettlement Service (PERS) that provides psychological support to men in minimum security prisons in England who are at high risk of reoffending. The findings showed that PERS users were less likely to return to closed prison settings, with a 27% lower risk of doing so compared to those not in the program, but they took longer to be released back into the community, waiting over six times longer than their counterparts. Understanding these outcomes is important for improving support for these individuals and helping them reintegrate successfully into society. Who this helps: This research benefits inmates with personality disorders, their families, and policymakers focused on rehabilitation.

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This study looked at how certain proteins, called claudins, interact with immune cells in cancer, specifically focusing on their role in weakening the body’s immune response to tumors. Researchers found that when claudins bind to specific immune receptors (LILRB2 and LILRB5), it can lead to more aggressive tumor growth by enhancing the ability of immune cells to suppress immune activity. In mouse models, blocking this interaction led to less tumor progression, suggesting a new way to improve cancer treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer and doctors looking for better treatment options.

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This study looked at how physical work conditions affect the likelihood of male construction workers needing surgery for arthritis in their hips and knees. Researchers found that out of over 291,000 workers, 10,336 needed hip replacements and 8,926 needed knee replacements due to osteoarthritis. Workers who often worked in bent positions or spent a lot of time kneeling had a higher risk of needing knee surgery, with risks increasing by 38% and 27%, respectively. Who this helps: This information benefits construction workers and their employers by highlighting the risks of certain job activities.

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This study looked at the inspection reports of 108 zoos in Britain to see how well they followed animal welfare rules over three inspections. Out of 324 reports, only 59 (18%) of the zoos passed all requirements, and 41% failed to conduct enough escape drills. While 89% of animal welfare criteria were met overall, only 26% of the zoos met all welfare standards. These findings highlight that many zoos still need to improve, especially farm parks, as new standards are coming in 2027 to ensure better care for animals. Who this helps: This helps zoo operators, animal welfare advocates, and ultimately the animals in their care.

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This study focused on a hormone called fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and its role in managing mineral and bone health in healthy children aged 0-16. Researchers found that FGF23 levels were highest in infancy, with a median value of 43.0 pg/mL at 2 years and staying nearly the same at 42.9 pg/mL by 16 years. By creating charts that detail FGF23 levels by age and sex, the findings will help doctors better understand and treat conditions related to mineral and bone metabolism in children. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with pediatric patients.

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This study looked at how older workers, especially those over 50 years old, pose and move their arms and backs while working in physically demanding jobs like construction, kitchens, cleaning, and nursing. Researchers found that construction workers often had their arms elevated at awkward angles, spending about 7.9% of their time with arms above 60 degrees, which is more than workers in other jobs (4.4-5.6%). Many workers also spent a significant amount of time in positions that can lead to injuries, with some exceeding recommended limits on certain days. Who this helps: This research benefits older workers and employers in physically demanding jobs by highlighting the need for better ergonomic practices to prevent injuries.

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This study explored the experiences of 39 Black women in England regarding prenatal testing for genetic and chromosomal conditions. It found that while these women valued prenatal testing, they faced emotional challenges, limited discussions about test outcomes, and feelings of pressure in their decisions. Many experienced anxiety during the waiting period for results, and their care was often inconsistent, influenced by systemic racism and a lack of support. Who this helps: This research helps Black women seeking prenatal care and healthcare providers to better understand their needs.

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This study looked at a program called PEERS, which teaches social skills to young adults with autism, and adapted it for college students. The researchers found that autistic participants rated their social skills better after the program, and two individuals showed significant improvements in their overall social abilities and quality of life. This matters because helping autistic students improve their social skills can enhance their college experience and well-being. **Who this helps:** This helps autistic college students and their social partners.

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This study looked at the damage to coral reefs caused by extreme heat from 2014 to 2017, during a significant global bleaching event. Researchers found that 80% of reefs experienced moderate bleaching, while 35% suffered significant coral death. This event was the most damaging on record, with predictions indicating that over half of the world's coral reefs faced serious bleaching and loss during those years. This matters because coral reefs are crucial for marine life and coastal protection, and their decline threatens entire ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists, conservationists, and coastal communities.

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Using the ATLAS detector at the LHC, physicists made the first direct measurement demonstrating that the radial expansion of the quark-gluon plasma — the hot soup of quarks and gluons briefly created in heavy-ion collisions — is truly collective, meaning all particles participate in a coordinated outward flow. The measurement showed that momentum correlations span long distances, factorize predictably, and are insensitive to collision centrality, all hallmarks of collective behavior. This new tool for probing the properties of quark-gluon plasma will help pin down key parameters like bulk viscosity.

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Researchers studied how seabed sediments in the UK store microplastics, which are tiny bits of plastic that can harm marine life. They analyzed data from 2017 to 2021 and created a model showing which areas might have higher concentrations of these microlitters. Their findings indicate specific zones, such as dredge disposal sites and marine protected areas, that are at risk and could be targeted for better monitoring and protection. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists, policymakers, and conservation groups focused on protecting marine ecosystems.

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This study focused on finding a better way to manage high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in patients who receive steroid treatment for a serious condition called acute graft versus host disease (GVHD) after a stem cell transplant. Researchers created a specialized tool kit for medical teams, which helped reduce the time it took to start treatment from an average of 46 days down to 9 days just a few months later. This faster response can lead to better health outcomes for patients by managing their blood sugar levels more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing stem cell transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 and related restrictions affected conflicts and self-harm incidents among prison inmates with complex health needs over three years. They found that the chances of conflicts dropped significantly during the first two years of the pandemic, with a 63% decrease in year one and a 60% decrease in year two compared to before COVID-19. However, younger inmates and those of White ethnicity were more likely to experience self-harm, indicating that the pandemic had different effects based on age and ethnicity. Who this helps: This research benefits policymakers, prison staff, and mental health professionals working with inmates.

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This study looked at how experiencing racial discrimination affects anxiety and PTSD symptoms in Black teenagers, specifically focusing on their brain activity and behavior. Researchers found that higher levels of racial discrimination were linked to increased anxiety and PTSD symptoms, and that this was related to how they avoided certain situations. For example, those facing more discrimination showed greater activity in a specific brain area (the hippocampus) when responding to threats. Who this helps: This research helps Black youth coping with the effects of racial discrimination.

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This research looked at how community programs aimed at preventing suicide are working in rural and remote areas of Australia, where suicide rates are higher than in cities. The study found that out of 11 programs reviewed, most lasted between 18 to 24 months and focused on educating people and raising awareness, but many didn’t show significant improvements in mental health measures. This is important because it shows that simply having programs in place isn’t enough; without proper funding and follow-ups, these initiatives may not effectively reduce suicide rates, especially among vulnerable groups like Indigenous people and youth. Who this helps: Patients at risk of suicide and the communities around them benefit from better informed and supported prevention efforts.

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This paper reviewed the process of inducing labor (IOL) in pregnant women when it is safer for them to deliver than continue the pregnancy. It highlighted that successful induction often happens within 24-48 hours, with specific methods like using a Foley catheter or medications such as misoprostol. The study found that timing is crucial, suggesting IOL can be safely done at 39 weeks for low-risk pregnancies and 37 weeks for those with mild complications, which ultimately helps enhance safety for both mothers and babies. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women and healthcare providers managing labor and delivery.

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This study examined how a protein called oligomeric cystatin C affects immune cells in cancer environments. Researchers found that when cystatin C interacts with specific receptors on immune cells (called LILRB2 and LILRB5), it boosts their ability to suppress T-cells, leading to increased tumor growth. Specifically, when the gene for cystatin C was removed from mice, tumor growth slowed down, while its overproduction sped up cancer progression. Who this helps: This research helps patients with cancer by highlighting potential targets for treatments that could enhance immune responses against tumors.

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The study surveyed British and Irish junior doctors working in Auckland, New Zealand, to understand why they left their home countries and whether their experiences met their expectations. Out of 55 doctors, 23 responded, and 91% moved to New Zealand for a better work-life balance, but many felt they had less free time instead. Additionally, 83% of the respondents planned to leave New Zealand soon to be closer to family and friends, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction despite the initial hopes for improvement. Who this helps: This information is useful for healthcare organizations looking to retain doctors and improve working conditions.

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This study looked at how using documentaries in medical training can help future doctors understand trauma-informed care for refugees. They found that after watching the documentary, 160 medical students showed a significant increase in knowledge about refugee healthcare, including better recognition of trauma and the challenges refugees face (with p-values less than 0.001). More than 90% of the students felt motivated to apply what they learned in their future medical practice, indicating that this teaching method is more effective than traditional lectures. Who this helps: This helps medical students and, ultimately, the refugees they care for.

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This study looked at how parents cope with grief while caring for children with rare and undiagnosed medical conditions. Researchers interviewed 24 parents and found that they often grieve the loss of the future they expected for their child. Parents reported that their grief is ongoing but changes over time, and they find ways to cope by seeking meaning and building resilience. Understanding these experiences can help improve support for families dealing with similar challenges. Who this helps: Parents of children with rare and undiagnosed conditions.

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This study examined preeclampsia and eclampsia, serious pregnancy-related conditions, in Ugandan hospitals and found that about 4.3% of pregnant women are affected by preeclampsia. The researchers identified key issues contributing to these conditions, such as young mothers and delays in seeking medical care, and noted that they often lead to severe complications, like HELLP syndrome occurring in 18.6% of cases. Improving early detection and treatment is crucial because these conditions significantly impact the health of mothers and their babies in Uganda. Who this helps: This research benefits pregnant women and healthcare providers in Uganda.

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This study looked at a new device called the NanoLymph, designed to help patients who receive transplanted cells by reducing the immune system's rejection of those cells. Researchers found that this device successfully attracted regulatory T cells, which help the immune system accept the transplant, and maintained its function for up to a month. This is important because it means patients can potentially avoid the harmful side effects of general immunosuppressive drugs while still achieving successful transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving cell transplants.

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This study focused on a type of thyroid cancer called oncocytic carcinoma (OCT), which is linked to specific changes in a part of the cell called mitochondria. Researchers created a new cancer cell line and found that a mutation in a gene (NDUFS1) affects how energy is produced in the cell, leading to a common defect in OCT that was traced back to inherited genetic changes. They analyzed 91 OCT tumors and discovered that this genetic issue occurs frequently, contributing to the cancer's development and growth. Who this helps: This research benefits cancer patients and doctors by providing insights into the genetic factors driving this type of thyroid cancer.

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This research looked at how to create better vaping policies in the UK that encourage smokers to quit while protecting non-smokers from starting to vape. The study found that while there is a lot of information about how people move between smoking and vaping, we need more data on the effectiveness of current vaping policies and the long-term health effects of vaping, especially for people who have never smoked. This is important because it can help create rules that effectively reduce smoking rates without attracting new users to vaping. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and lawmakers in creating effective vaping regulations.

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This study looked at how combining different methods for predicting the risk of rejection in kidney transplant recipients could improve patient outcomes. Researchers analyzed data from 594 kidney transplant patients over several decades and found that 17.5% developed donor-specific antibodies (dnDSA), which increase the risk of transplant failure. By using three algorithms together, they were able to better identify high-risk patients, leading to earlier interventions that could improve the success of kidney transplants. Who this helps: This helps kidney transplant patients by allowing for personalized treatment plans that reduce the risk of rejection.

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The ATLAS experiment at the Large Hadron Collider found evidence — at a statistical significance of 3.4 sigma — that the Higgs boson decays into two muons, the heaviest observed Higgs decay involving second-generation particles. This result, combining new Run 3 data with earlier Run 2 data, provides the first direct evidence that the Higgs boson couples to second-generation quarks and leptons. Confirming this coupling is a key test of the Standard Model of particle physics.