DR. JESSE MOSS JR., M.D.

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Researchers at a children's hospital developed a training program called VIPER to help pharmacists better manage the use of vancomycin, an important antibiotic for kids. Since the program started in 2020, over 100 pharmacists have been trained, with 89% finding it effective for keeping up with guidelines, and 84% feeling more confident in adjusting dosages. This is important because vancomycin dosing can be complex in children, and better training leads to safer medication use. Who this helps: This benefits children who need vancomycin and the pharmacists who manage their treatment.

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This study examines a new method for quickly and efficiently creating 4D MRI images of the lungs, which can capture how the lungs move as we breathe. Researchers found that their method reduced memory usage by about three times and allowed high-quality images to be produced in under 10 minutes, even on standard computer hardware. This is important because it makes lung MRI more accessible and practical for clinical use, improving the ability to examine lung function without invasive procedures. Who this helps: Patients and doctors needing non-invasive assessments of lung health.

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This study looked at how different methods of measuring agreement among raters work when they evaluate things like symptoms or conditions on a scale. The researchers found that two commonly used measurements, Fleiss' kappa and Conger's kappa, are related in specific ways, meaning that if raters tend to give similar average scores, the differences in their ratings become less significant. This is important because it helps to clarify how we interpret agreement scores in medical evaluations, ensuring that doctors can more accurately assess consensus in patient ratings. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers analyzing patient assessments or treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at the drug ambroxol to see if it can slow the progression of Parkinson's disease in patients who have a specific genetic risk factor called GBA1. Researchers are testing the drug on 330 patients, expecting to improve their movement and daily living activities as measured by a standardized rating scale. The results are important because if ambroxol proves effective, it could provide a new treatment option for a group of patients who currently have limited options. Who this helps: This helps patients with Parkinson's disease, especially those with GBA1 genetic variants.

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This study looked at a 36-year-old man who had severe nausea and vomiting caused by a condition called mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), which is not often recognized as a cause of stomach problems. The doctors found that he had delayed stomach emptying, which is linked to his MCAS. This is important because it shows that MCAS can cause serious gastrointestinal issues, and doctors need to be aware of it when treating patients with similar symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from recurrent vomiting and stomach issues that don't have clear explanations.

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This study looked at a method used to analyze relationships between data when only summary statistics from other research are available. The researchers found that their new approach, which takes into account the uncertainty in reliability estimates, is more accurate than the traditional method (Hunter-Schmidt). In testing, their method showed that it correctly identified relationships about 95% of the time, while the older method often fell short. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and statisticians who analyze data from previous studies.

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This study looked at new methods for testing how well statistical models fit data in psychology and related fields. Researchers found that a particular method called penalized eigenvalue block averaging (pEBA) performed best in ensuring accurate results while managing error rates when comparing different models. Specifically, the best version tested used pEBA with four blocks and a specific statistic, showing strong performance in controlling error rates and measuring invariance across groups. Who this helps: Patients and researchers in psychology who rely on accurate data analysis for understanding behavioral and mental health assessments.

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This study looked at whether the herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of developing dementia, analyzing data from seven studies involving over 751,000 people. The results showed no strong link between HSV-2 and Alzheimer's disease, with odds ratios around 1.1, and only a slight indication of increased risk for all-cause dementia (hazard ratios around 1.37). Understanding the relationship between HSV-2 and dementia is important for guiding future research and public health strategies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare providers looking to understand dementia risk factors.

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This study looked at glioblastoma, a serious and complex brain tumor, to understand its different cell types and how they affect patient survival. Researchers analyzed 263 glioblastomas and found that these tumors were made up predominantly of oligodendrocyte-like cells (43%), with a higher number of these cells linked to shorter survival times (14.3 months vs. 15.3 months). In contrast, tumors with more astrocyte-like cells were associated with better survival (15.3 months vs. 13.4 months), and an ideal balance of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes led to even longer survival rates (15.8 months vs. 11.9 months). Who this helps: This research benefits patients with glioblastoma and their doctors by providing insights that could inform more personalized treatment approaches.

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This study looked at how toddlers with Williams Syndrome (WS) walk compared to toddlers without any developmental issues. It found that children with WS start walking later, around 792 days old, compared to 396 days for typical children. Although their overall walking quality was similar, children with WS showed slightly more outward foot positioning while walking. Understanding these differences is important because it can help tailor interventions that support better motor development in these children. Who this helps: This helps parents and therapists working with children with Williams Syndrome.

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The study focused on connecting people who order at-home HIV and STI tests through TakeMeHome.org to PrEP services using a text messaging program called PrEPmate. It found that out of 537 people who ordered tests, 31% accessed PrEP information, and 16% enrolled in PrEPmate, with half of those receiving educational support. This is important because it increases the number of people who can access lifesaving HIV prevention medication. Who this helps: This helps individuals at risk of HIV by connecting them to important prevention services.

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This study looked at how well Yttrium-90 (Y-90) treatment works for breast cancer that has spread to the liver. Researchers found that patients receiving Y-90 had a 38% lower risk of dying at 3 months, a 30% lower risk at 6 months, and a 32% lower risk at 9 months compared to those who did not receive the treatment. This is important because it shows that Y-90 can significantly improve survival for patients with breast cancer that has spread to the liver within the first 9 months of treatment. Who this helps: This helps breast cancer patients with liver metastases.

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This study looked at how social groups in rural areas affect the rates of mammograms among women. Researchers found that while rural counties have more social organizations, they still have lower mammogram screening rates compared to urban areas. However, higher numbers of these social groups are linked to increased screening, suggesting that community connections can help improve access to mammograms in rural locations. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially women in rural communities.

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This study looked at a rare type of bladder stone made from calcium tartrate tetrahydrate found in a 60-year-old man with health issues, including diabetes and pesticide exposure. The stone measured about 24 mm by 36 mm, and its unique composition has mostly been studied in animals before. The findings highlight the importance of understanding how certain diets and environmental factors can increase the risk of developing these challenging stones, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for bladder stones, as well as doctors managing their care.

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This study examined a program aimed at helping people with interstitial lung disease (ILD) manage symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness. Over four weeks, participants attended group sessions led by a specialist nurse and physiotherapist, and the results showed that 59% saw significant improvements in breathlessness, while 51% improved their emotional health and 49% felt less fatigue. This is important because it highlights a successful way to enhance the quality of life for individuals with a challenging lung condition. Who this helps: Patients with interstitial lung disease and their caregivers.

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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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This study looks at how lung function tests, specifically the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (Dlco) and forced expiratory volume (FEV), relate to the progression of lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare lung disease that mainly affects women. It found that changes in Dlco are more closely linked to the disease's progression than changes in FEV, especially when looking at small cysts in the lungs that can be overlooked. Understanding these connections is crucial for better monitoring and treatment of LAM, particularly as new imaging techniques become available. Who this helps: This benefits patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the effects of a new treatment called the Optilume system on urinary and sexual function in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The researchers found that after the treatment, sexual function scores were similar in men who received the Optilume procedure and those who had a sham (fake) surgery, indicating that the treatment does not negatively affect sexual health. Out of 148 men, both groups had about the same rates of erectile dysfunction and experienced no significant changes in semen quality. Who this helps: This benefits men suffering from BPH, as they can find relief from urinary symptoms without risking their sexual health.

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This study looked at how patients who reported an allergy to iodinated contrast media (ICM)—a substance used in medical imaging—were managed in hospitals. Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 patients and found that while 501 had an allergy, nearly the same percentage received ICM injections as those without allergies (34% vs. 36%). Notably, patients with ICM allergy had a higher death rate (25.9%) compared to those without allergies (16.5%), but this higher mortality was not linked to their allergy status or the use of premedication to prevent allergic reactions. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers by improving the understanding of ICM allergies in high-risk patients.

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This study looked at how easy it is for children to read information leaflets that explain research studies they might join. Out of 191 leaflets reviewed, those meant for kids under 12 were too difficult to understand, with readability scores higher than what's appropriate for their age; specifically, all scores for ages 10 and under were significantly above the target (p<0.005). The findings highlight that these leaflets are often not suitable for younger participants, especially in studies sponsored by commercial companies, pointing to a need for clearer communication. Who this helps: This helps children and their families involved in research studies.

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This study looked at two different methods of guiding a catheter during heart surgery to see which one causes fewer brain injuries. They found that patients who had a transseptal puncture (a specific entry point) had a 28% chance of developing brain lesions, compared to a 45% chance for those using the traditional retrograde aortic method. This is important because reducing the risk of brain damage can lead to better overall patient outcomes and less chance of cognitive impairment after surgery. Who this helps: Patients undergoing heart procedures.

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This study looked at the problems patients in England face when they are prescribed opioid medications for pain that isn't related to cancer. Out of 619 participants who responded, nearly 80% reported facing issues with their opioids, and many felt they needed higher doses to achieve the same pain relief. These findings highlight the need for doctors to closely monitor patients taking opioids to manage their care effectively. Who this helps: Patients taking opioids for pain management.

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This study examined how the way we understand a task affects the strategies we choose to solve problems and how well we perform. Researchers tested 144 participants with a specific task and found that people are more likely to use successful strategies when they clearly understand the task. Additionally, individual abilities, like attention and memory, impacted how quickly and effectively people solved problems, with those who could monitor their attempts and explore different approaches performing better. Who this helps: This helps patients and anyone who engages in problem-solving tasks, like students and professionals.

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This research focused on how a protein named TRIM23 helps the body's defense mechanisms against the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) by promoting a process called autophagy, which helps clear viral infections. The study found that when TRIM23 is not functioning properly, as in a patient with a specific genetic mutation, the body struggles to activate autophagy and effectively respond to the virus. Understanding this process is important because it opens the door to new treatments for viral infections and inflammatory diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with viral infections, particularly those susceptible to herpes-related diseases.

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This study created a comprehensive database called GRUMP, which includes DNA samples from ocean water collected between 2003 and 2020. Researchers found that, on average, bacteria made up 71% of the genetic material, eukaryotes 19%, and archaea 8%, although in colder waters above latitudes of 40 degrees, eukaryotes made up 32%. This matters because it allows scientists to easily compare microbial populations in the ocean globally, enhancing our understanding of marine ecosystems. Who this helps: This benefits marine biologists and ecologists studying ocean health and biodiversity.

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This study looked at how measuring moisture just below the skin's surface can help prevent pressure ulcers that patients acquire while in the hospital. By adding this moisture measurement to standard care, the incidence of these ulcers could go down by about 32.9%, saving the National Health Service (NHS) around £26.53 for each patient admitted. This is important because it offers a way to stop these painful injuries early, which can improve patient outcomes and save money in healthcare costs. Who this helps: Patients in hospitals, especially those at risk of pressure ulcers.

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This study looked at the link between autism, anxiety, and intolerance of uncertainty in people with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and Fragile X syndrome (FXS). Researchers found that for participants with CdLS, intolerance of uncertainty played a role in how their autistic traits were connected to anxiety, but this was not the case for those with FXS. Understanding these differences is important for developing better treatments tailored to each syndrome. Who this helps: This helps patients with CdLS and FXS, as well as their families and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the behavior of children and the coping methods of their caregivers affected the mental health of those caregivers during and after COVID-19 lockdowns. Researchers found that from August to December 2021 to January to March 2022, both challenging child behaviors and caregiver psychological distress decreased. However, the way caregivers coped with their stress influenced their level of distress, suggesting that helping caregivers develop better coping strategies could improve their mental health. Who this helps: This benefits caregivers of children with and without intellectual disabilities.

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This study looked at how the blood-brain barrier (the protective layer around the brain) changes as mice age, focusing on different brain areas: the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and corpus callosum. The researchers found that at 18-20 months old, the prefrontal cortex showed the most significant age-related changes, including altered cell protein levels and increased permeability; for example, the blood-brain barrier became more "leaky." Understanding these changes is important because they may help explain why certain areas of the brain are more susceptible to diseases as we age. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying age-related brain diseases and may improve treatments for affected patients.

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This study looked at how well children with different conditions—Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS), fragile X syndrome (FXS), autism, and those without developmental conditions—understand what others are thinking. Researchers found that while typical children performed better on traditional tests of understanding others' thoughts, the CdLS and FXS children did just as well on a simpler, more instinctive test compared to autistic children, who struggled with both types. This is important because it helps us understand that complications in handling language may obscure true mentalizing abilities in children with autism and other genetic syndromes. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and educators working with children with developmental conditions, helping them better assess mentalizing abilities.

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This study looked at a new online consultation service for doctors to get advice on treating substance use disorders (SUD) at a medical center. They found that among 103 consultations, the most common issues were alcohol and opioid use disorders. The service helped doctors prescribe new medications in 65% of cases, and most patients stayed on these medications afterward, which is important for effective treatment. Who this helps: This benefits both patients struggling with substance use and primary care doctors seeking guidance on treatment options.

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This study looked at a rare lung disease called lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), which mostly affects women and is hard to diagnose due to low levels of a common marker, VEGF-D. Researchers found a new protein, premelanosome protein (PMEL), that was twice as high in LAM patients compared to healthy individuals, and developed a diagnostic score using six proteins that correctly identified LAM patients 100% of the time. This could mean that in the future, diagnosing LAM might not require invasive lung biopsies. Who this helps: This helps patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis by providing better diagnostic options.

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This study looked for a type of theoretical particle called a magnetic monopole in heavy-ion collisions at a particle accelerator. Researchers analyzed data and found no clear evidence of these particles, setting limits on their possible existence. They ruled out magnetic monopoles with specific masses below 80-120 GeV, which helps refine our understanding of particle physics. Who this helps: This benefits physicists and researchers studying fundamental particles in the universe.

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This study focused on the search for dark matter particles created alongside a specific type of particle called a dark Higgs boson during high-energy proton collisions. Using a large dataset, the researchers found that dark Higgs bosons with masses between 30 and 150 GeV are unlikely to exist, as their presence would conflict with observed data. This finding is significant because it narrows down the possibilities for dark matter models, helping scientists better understand the universe's hidden components. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying dark matter and fundamental physics.

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Researchers studied the production of top quark pairs during collisions of lead nuclei at very high energy levels (5.02 TeV) using the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. They found a significant production rate of these quarks, estimating it at about 3.6 microbarns, with a strong confidence level (5.0 standard deviations). This discovery supports our understanding of fundamental particles and conditions similar to those in the early universe. Who this helps: This helps physicists studying particle physics and the fundamental forces of the universe.

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This study looked at spine problems among Indigenous adults in Cross Lake, Manitoba, focusing on how common these issues are and how they affect daily life. Nearly 90% of the participants reported having spine symptoms in the past month, with over 70% experiencing limits to their daily activities due to neck or lower back pain. Many people preferred self-care or over-the-counter medication, highlighting a strong desire for accessible treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits Indigenous patients dealing with spine issues and health care providers looking to better support their needs.

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This study looked into how to improve care for people with spine problems in Cross Lake, a remote Indigenous community in Manitoba, Canada. Researchers are developing and testing a new approach to spine care that involves a system for prioritizing patients and pathways for treatment. Their goal is to address the growing issue of spine-related disability, which affects many people, particularly in areas with limited healthcare, and has been a leading cause of disability worldwide. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from spine disorders in underserved communities.

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This study looked at how a new chiropractic service in Cross Lake, Manitoba, changed the way adults in the Indigenous community received treatment for musculoskeletal disorders. After six months of the chiropractic program, the need for medical imaging dropped from 63.4% to 44.9%, and the use of common pain medications like NSAIDs fell from 80.5% to 53.1%. This is important because it shows that the new service is helping people manage their pain with fewer medications and less reliance on imaging, which can be costly and invasive. Who this helps: This helps patients with musculoskeletal disorders in the Indigenous community.

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Researchers looked at the difficulties and potential solutions for comparing the effectiveness of different vaccines under new European regulations. They found that while vaccines often lack direct comparisons from clinical trials, there is a pressing need to assess their efficacy and safety due to various challenges, such as differences in how infections affect populations. They suggest that using a step-by-step approach and better methods for analysis could help address these issues. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and policymakers in making informed decisions about vaccine use.

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This study looked at how obesity affects the physical abilities and overall health reported by rural patients with advanced cancer. Researchers found that out of 348 patients, 44% were classified as obese, and those with higher body mass index (BMI) experienced reduced physical function and more fatigue. For example, patients with a BMI over 30 had an average score of 8.1 on a physical performance test, compared to 9.1 for those with a normal weight, and reported lower energy levels. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced cancer living in rural areas who struggle with obesity.

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This study looked at a specific type of particle interaction, where pairs of W bosons (particles related to the weak force) are produced in proton collisions. The researchers found evidence that at least one of these W bosons is longitudinally polarized, meaning it's oriented in a certain way, which has not been strongly established before. They reported a significant result with a notable confidence level, indicating that these polarized pairs are more common than previously thought, potentially providing new insights into fundamental forces in physics. Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers studying particle physics and the fundamental forces of nature.

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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.

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This study looked at the costs and benefits of using cryoballoon ablation compared to antiarrhythmic drugs for treating a type of heart condition called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in patients who had not received treatment before. The researchers analyzed data from 703 patients and found that cryoballoon ablation was not only more effective, leading to fewer recurring atrial fibrillation episodes, but also cost-effective, costing about €200 per patient and providing an increase of 0.18 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). This matters because it shows that starting treatment with cryoballoon ablation can improve patients' lives and reduce long-term healthcare costs. Who this helps: Patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at how well hospital doctors recognize and treat obesity in patients during their hospital stays. Out of 1,531 patients with severe obesity, doctors noted obesity as a problem in over 60% of cases, but only a small number actually received treatment for it, like referrals to weight management clinics or prescriptions for weight-loss medications. This is important because it shows that while doctors are aware of obesity, they often don’t follow through with treatment, indicating a need for better processes in hospitals to help these patients manage their weight. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity who are hospitalized, as they could receive better care and support.

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This study looked at rare types of particle decays involving the W boson, specifically how it transforms into other particles like pions, kaons, and rho mesons. The researchers found that these decays are extremely rare, with upper limits set at B(W→πγ) less than 1.9 millionths, B(W→Kγ) less than 1.7 millionths, and B(W→ργ) less than 5.2 millionths, which helps to better understand particle interactions and the fundamental forces governing them. This is important because it improves our knowledge of physics and could aid in measuring the W boson mass in future experiments. Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers in the field of particle physics.

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This study looked at how certain factors influence the behavior of a type of soup made of quarks and gluons, created during high-energy collisions of lead and xenon atoms. Researchers measured aspects like the average momentum of particles produced in these collisions and found that in very close encounters, the usual patterns changed because the collision area reached its largest size. Understanding these variations helps scientists gain insights into the early conditions of this quark-gluon plasma and its properties, including how sound travels through it. Who this helps: This helps researchers and physicists studying the fundamentals of particle physics and the early universe.

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This study looked at how Z bosons are produced in high-energy proton collisions and measured various related characteristics using advanced machine learning. Researchers collected data from 139 trillion collisions and analyzed 24 different properties of Z boson events without dividing them into limited categories. This approach provides a more detailed and flexible dataset, which can help improve our understanding of the strong force in physics and enhance simulations used in future research. Who this helps: This benefits researchers in particle physics and related fields.