JOSEPH J. CATANIA, M.D

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This study looked at the effectiveness of self-collecting samples from the rectum and throat to test for gonorrhea and chlamydia, key sexually transmitted infections. Researchers found that self-collected samples were highly accurate: they correctly identified 94.4% of chlamydia cases and 100% of gonorrhea cases from rectal samples, and for throat samples, they correctly identified 100% of chlamydia cases and 97.2% of gonorrhea cases. This matters because self-collection could make STI screening easier and more accessible, encouraging more people to get tested and helping to reduce infections. Who this helps: Patients, especially those at risk for STIs.

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This study focused on developing a new type of robotic system to help doctors perform catheterization procedures safely and accurately from a distance. The researchers designed a system that helped maintain control during the procedure, with tracking errors typically between 0.64 and 1.53 cm, indicating good precision. This advance is important because it could reduce radiation exposure for medical staff and increase access to care in remote areas. Who this helps: Patients and doctors, particularly in remote medical facilities.

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This study looked at digital mental health technologies (DMHTs) in the U.S. to see how they are evaluated from the perspectives of users, payers, and employers. Researchers reviewed 4,353 articles and found that 26 studies provided insights on how DMHTs are valued, revealing that 88% of users prioritize ease of use and features that help with their mental health goals, like anxiety management tools. The findings highlight that while DMHTs offer potential benefits, challenges such as internet access, technical skills, and privacy concerns can limit their use, emphasizing the need to create and choose apps based on user needs. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and mental health care providers by informing the development and use of digital tools for mental health support.

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This study looked at how a feeling of losing control over eating affects various eating behaviors in people with and without eating disorders. Analyzing 34 different studies, researchers found that this feeling of loss of control was linked to behaviors like binge eating, late-night eating, and emotional eating. Understanding this connection is important because it can help in developing better treatments for people struggling with their eating habits. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with obesity and eating disorders, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at whether giving probiotics to undernourished children under 5 years old helps them grow. After reviewing nine studies involving 5,295 children, the findings showed that probiotics likely have little to no impact on children's weight and height, with a standard mean difference of only 0.05 for weight and -0.04 for height. This is important because it suggests that probiotics may not be a useful solution for improving the growth of kids who are undernourished, indicating a need for more effective interventions. Who this helps: This helps healthcare professionals and policymakers understand the limitations of probiotics for treating undernutrition in children.

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This research looked at how animal milk and infant formula affect the health of infants aged 6-11 months who are not exclusively breastfed. It found that drinking cow's milk may increase the risk of anemia, with a risk increase of 226% compared to formula, and gastrointestinal blood loss also appeared to be higher. However, the evidence is uncertain, and more research is needed, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Who this helps: This helps parents and healthcare providers making feeding decisions for infants who are not breastfed.

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Researchers studied how different immune boosters, called TLR agonists, help with vaccine responses in mice. They found that most TLR agonists increased the production of protective antibodies against a component of the anthrax bacteria by more than 100 times compared to vaccines without these boosters. This matters because better vaccine responses can lead to more effective prevention of serious diseases like anthrax. Who this helps: Patients who need effective vaccines against bacterial infections.

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This research focuses on how drinking animal milk compares to infant formula for babies aged 6 to 11 months who are not exclusively breastfed. The study aims to gather and evaluate existing research to determine impacts like anemia and growth (weight and height) in these babies. Understanding these differences is important because it can influence health recommendations for infants who don't receive breast milk. Who this helps: This helps parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers understand the best feeding options for infants.

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This study looked at why young African-American men who have sex with men (ages 17-24) are not using PrEP, a medication that can prevent HIV. Out of 181 participants, 72.4% were aware of PrEP but had not started using it. The research found that increased awareness and understanding of PrEP can reduce stigma and improve uptake, with only 12.2% of those surveyed actually using the medication. Who this helps: This information is valuable for healthcare providers and public health programs aiming to increase PrEP adoption among young African-American men.

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This study looked at whether giving probiotics to young children (ages 0-59 months) helps them grow taller or gain weight. It found that probiotics had a small positive effect on weight (an increase of about 0.26 standard units) and height (an increase of about 0.16 standard units) in children from low- and middle-income countries, but not in those from high-income countries, where the effects were minimal and not significant. This matters because it highlights how probiotics might benefit young children in certain settings, which could help address growth issues in those regions. Who this helps: Children in low- and middle-income countries and their healthcare providers.

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This study explored how the ability to enjoy positive experiences (called savouring) affects people's mental health after they go through a stressful event. Researchers surveyed 300 individuals who had faced a significant stressor in the past year and found that savouring is linked to healthy coping methods, such as seeking support and finding meaning, while it is associated with less effective methods like avoidance. The findings suggest that savouring can play an important role in improving mental well-being, as it is tied to lower depression and greater life satisfaction. Who this helps: This helps individuals who have recently experienced stress, as well as mental health professionals offering support.

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This study focused on Nocardia infections in patients who have received solid organ transplants, such as kidney transplants. Researchers found that over the last five years, 13 cases of these skin and soft tissue infections were documented, mainly in kidney transplant recipients, and the time between transplantation and infection ranged from 6 months to 16 years. The most effective treatment was a specific antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which successfully prevented relapses. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating solid organ transplant patients.

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This study looked at how antibiotic use to prevent infective endocarditis (IE) has changed over time. It found that since 2006, antibiotics are now only recommended for high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures, which helps reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. The research highlights the importance of using antibiotics wisely and offers safer prevention methods for those with lower risk of IE. Who this helps: Patients at risk for infective endocarditis and their doctors.

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This study looked at how to keep peritoneal dialysis fluid (PDF) sterile when mixing in antibiotics, comparing two methods: a non-touch technique used by nurses and a sterile technique used by pharmacists. The researchers found that all the PDF bags stayed sterile for up to three days, regardless of the technique or the type of PDF used. This is important because it shows that a simpler method (non-touch) can effectively prevent contamination, which benefits patients who rely on this treatment. Who this helps: Patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.

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This study focuses on a 66-year-old man with no symptoms but was found to have intestinal spirochetosis (IS) during a routine colonoscopy. Even though biopsies showed the presence of spirochetes in his colon, further tests confirmed he was healthy and did not need antibiotic treatment. This research highlights the importance of careful monitoring for IS in patients who are otherwise well, rather than rushing into treatment. Who this helps: This benefits doctors making decisions about treating intestinal infections in healthy patients.

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This study looked at the risk of pneumonia caused by a fungus called Pneumocystis jirovecii in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who were taking medications that suppress the immune system. Out of 937 patients studied, only 3 developed this type of pneumonia, leading to very low risk estimates of 0.2 to 0.6 cases per 100 patient-years based on different treatment combinations. This suggests that most patients with IBD on immune-suppressing medications may not need routine preventive treatment for this pneumonia, while those on triple therapy should still be monitored closely. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with IBD and their doctors by informing treatment decisions.

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This research paper looks at how well oral HIV self-testing is being used and what challenges people face when trying to test themselves for HIV. It finds that while the convenience and privacy of these tests can encourage more people to get tested, the high cost of testing kits and complicated instructions are major obstacles. Only one oral HIV test is currently approved for sale in the U.S., and efforts are needed to improve how these tests are distributed and used, particularly among high-risk groups. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for HIV, especially those who may prefer testing in the privacy of their own homes.

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This study looked at how the fungus *Candida glabrata* is becoming more resistant to echinocandin treatments, which are commonly used when other antifungal drugs fail. Over a decade, the resistance to echinocandins grew from 4.9% to 12.3%, and resistance to another antifungal, fluconazole, rose from 18% to 30%. Notably, 80% of patients with mutations linked to resistance did not respond well to echinocandin treatments, highlighting the need for better testing and understanding of these resistance patterns in hospitals to improve patient care. Who this helps: This research helps doctors treating patients with *Candida glabrata* infections.

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This study examined a new, more effective version of a protein called lethal factor (rLF-A) used in testing how well anthrax vaccines work. Researchers found that rLF-A is about 7 to 10 times more potent than the commonly used version (rLF-HMA), meaning it can achieve the same results with much less of the protein. This matters because it simplifies the testing process for vaccines and helps ensure a steady supply of the needed materials. Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers of anthrax vaccines.

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This report focuses on a traveler who returned from South America with a fever that doctors couldn't immediately explain. The study highlights the importance of understanding the limits of lab tests, as delays in finding the right diagnosis can lead to serious but treatable conditions going unnoticed. Knowing these limitations can help healthcare providers act faster in similar cases. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and travelers returning from areas with infectious diseases.

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This study looked at factors that help predict whether critically ill ICU patients develop bloodstream infections caused by Candida glabrata (CG), a type of yeast. Researchers analyzed data from 246 patients with blood infections and found that four key factors—no renal failure, being in the hospital for less than seven days, having abdominal surgery, and using fluconazole—could help doctors identify those at risk for CG infections. The scoring model they developed accurately predicts CG candidemia about 73% of the time, which is important for guiding appropriate treatment choices when lab test results are unavailable. Who this helps: This helps doctors decide the best antifungal treatment for ICU patients.

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This study looked at a protein called p300 that is linked to diseases like neurodegenerative disorders and cancer, which occur due to the buildup of misfolded proteins in cells. Researchers found that a specific part of p300 can help these misfolded proteins stick together, which may worsen conditions like Parkinson's disease and other related illnesses. They discovered that reducing the amount of p300 leads to more damage in cells, highlighting its role in protecting against harmful protein clumps. Who this helps: This research helps patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, as well as doctors treating these conditions.

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This study looked at how reducing glucose in the diet affects high levels of a mutated protein called p53, which is commonly found in tumors and linked to cancer progression. The researchers found that cutting down on glucose leads to the breakdown of this mutant p53, causing cancer cells to die; specifically, a carbohydrate-free diet significantly lowered levels of p53 mutants in animals compared to a normal diet. These results show that diet can play a crucial role in how certain cancer cells survive, opening up new possibilities for treatment. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients and doctors looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at two patients with coccidioidal meningitis, a serious fungal infection affecting the brain's protective layers. Researchers used a technique called real-time PCR to analyze their cerebrospinal fluid and successfully identify the infection. This finding is important because it shows that PCR can quickly and accurately diagnose this condition, which previously took much longer. Who this helps: This benefits patients who are suffering from or may be at risk for coccidioidal meningitis.

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This study looked at how a receptor called LRP1 interacts with another receptor known as integrin alphaMbeta2, which plays a role in immune cell movement. The researchers found that LRP1 specifically binds to integrin alphaMbeta2, especially after the latter is activated, and identified key parts of both receptors that are important for this interaction. They discovered that a specific sequence within integrin alphaMbeta2 is crucial for LRP1 binding, which may impact how these receptors function, including reducing inflammation. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing insight into potential treatments for inflammation-related conditions.

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Researchers studied how a protein called SUMO-1 interacts with another important protein, p53, which helps control cell growth and prevent tumors. They found that when SUMO-1 is altered by acetylation, it helps p53 promote cell death in damaged cells, while a non-acetylated version of SUMO-1 has the opposite effect, leading to halted cell growth. This research highlights the importance of acetylation in regulating p53's activity and suggests ways to enhance cancer treatments by manipulating these proteins. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by offering insights for more effective therapies.

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This study looked at how certain mutations in a gene called p53, which often occur in tumors, affect its ability to bind DNA and regulate cell growth. The researchers found that restoring a protein called PCAF, which is less active in tumors with p53 mutations, can help reactivate the function of mutant p53, leading to cancer cell death. Specifically, when they increased PCAF levels or used certain inhibitors, the mutated p53 could rebind to DNA and resume its role in controlling gene activity. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients, particularly those with tumors carrying p53 mutations.

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This study examined how Peyronie's disease (PD), which affects around 5-10% of men over 50, impacts sexual and mental well-being. Researchers interviewed 64 men, including 28 with PD and 36 without, to identify key issues they face. They found that PD significantly affects how men view their bodies, their sexual performance, causes pain, and leads to feelings of embarrassment and social isolation. Who this helps: This research benefits men with Peyronie's disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how different types of childhood sexual experiences affect the health of gay and bisexual men in adulthood. It found that men who experienced forced sex as children had the most significant health issues, including high rates of psychological distress, substance abuse, and a greater risk of HIV. Among the men studied, 55% of those who experienced forced sex reported frequent drug use, compared to 35% in those who had consensual experiences and 15% in those with no experiences. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating targeted support and treatment for those affected. Who this helps: This helps gay and bisexual men who have experienced childhood sexual abuse by informing better health interventions.

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This study looked at the awareness and attitudes of 879 gay and other men who have sex with men in San Francisco about microbicides, a type of treatment that could help prevent HIV. The research found that about half of the participants had unprotected anal sex, and 26% were still using a substance called Nonoxynol-9, which is not recommended for this purpose. Many men were open to using microbicides if they were seen as effective, especially those who had unprotected sex or were already HIV-positive, suggesting that education on safe practices could improve acceptance and use of these treatments. Who this helps: This information benefits patients at risk of HIV, particularly gay men.

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This study looked at how common HIV is among men who have sex with men (MSM) in San Francisco and what factors lead to risky sexual behaviors. They found that 25.2% of participants were HIV positive, and those who used Viagra or had more sexual partners were more likely to engage in unprotected sex. Additionally, men who had lived in San Francisco for less than a year, used certain drugs, or felt safer about sex due to better HIV treatments also showed higher risks. Who this helps: This research assists public health officials and healthcare providers in creating targeted prevention strategies for men who have sex with men.

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This study looks at a rare skin infection called giant orf, which usually comes from sheep and goats and spreads to humans through contact with infected animals. The researchers found a case involving a sheep farmer who developed severe facial lesions after attempting to remove the infection, leading to additional growths nearby. This is important because it highlights how the infection can worsen and affect people in unexpected ways. Who this helps: This helps farmers and healthcare providers by raising awareness about the risks and complications of giant orf.

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This research studied how different chemical changes to the p53 protein affect cell behavior and gene activity. The findings showed that acetylation at a specific site (K320) helps p53 support cell survival after DNA damage, while changes at another site (K373) lead to cell death by promoting genes that trigger cell death. Understanding these processes is crucial because they can influence how cells respond to stress or damage, which has implications for cancer treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing insights that could improve cancer therapies.

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This study looked at how a protein called p53 affects the growth of nerve fibers (neurites) and the ability of nerves to regenerate after injury. Researchers found that p53 is necessary for this process in both lab-grown neurons and mice, specifically by influencing two proteins related to the structure of cells. This finding is important because it opens up new possibilities for treatments that could help nerves heal after injuries. Who this helps: This benefits patients with nerve injuries, doctors treating these conditions, and researchers looking for new therapies.

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This study looked at how gay identity and experiences of violence might influence the risk of HIV behaviors among urban men who have sex with men (MSM). Researchers found that childhood sexual abuse and gay identity are linked to higher HIV risk behaviors. They also identified that experiences of being battered play a significant role in connecting these childhood traumas to risky behaviors, highlighting the complexity of these relationships. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers, especially those focused on HIV prevention and support for MSM.

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This study created and tested a new questionnaire called the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ) to evaluate sexual function and satisfaction in older men dealing with urogenital health issues. The questionnaire, which includes 25 questions, was shown to be reliable and effective in distinguishing between men with sexual dysfunction and those without, scoring high reliability numbers (0.81 to 0.90) for its different sections. This matters because it provides a strong tool for doctors and researchers to assess and understand sexual health problems, leading to better care and treatment for aging men. Who this helps: This helps older men experiencing sexual health issues and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how searching for health information on the internet affects the relationship between patients and their doctors. It found that 31% of people had looked for health information online, and of those, 71% wanted their doctor's opinion about what they found rather than a specific treatment. This is important because it suggests that when patients bring information to their doctors and the doctors communicate well, it can strengthen their relationship, but better access to information and communication skills are needed to ensure everyone benefits equally. Who this helps: Patients seeking to be more involved in their health care.

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This study looked at how U.S. doctors view patients bringing health information from the Internet to their appointments. It found that 85% of physicians had encountered this behavior, and accurate information could improve care, but inaccurate information often harmed it. Notably, the feeling that patients were challenging their authority led to a significant decline in the quality of care and the doctor-patient relationship, with more than a third of doctors believing it made visits less efficient. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking information about their health and doctors trying to manage patient interactions.

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This study looked at two ways to ask teenagers about their risky sexual behaviors related to STDs and HIV: a phone interview and a self-administered computer interview done at home. Researchers found that more teens reported having sex in the last three months when using the computer interview (43.8%) compared to the phone interview (33.3%), but both methods produced similar levels of comfort and honesty in responses. This matters because it shows that both methods can be reliable for collecting information on sensitive topics, allowing researchers to choose the more cost-effective phone interviews without worrying about biased answers. Who this helps: This helps researchers and public health officials who need accurate data from teens about sexual health.

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This study looked at how many gay and bisexual men in the U.S. have attempted suicide and what factors are related to this. It found that 12% of these men had tried to take their own lives, with most making their first attempt before age 25. This matters because it highlights a significant mental health risk for young gay and bisexual men, especially in environments where they face discrimination or hostility. Who this helps: This helps gay and bisexual men and mental health professionals.

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This study looked at how childhood sexual abuse (CSA) affects sexual risk-taking in men who have sex with men (MSM). Among nearly 3,000 participants, about 20% reported experiencing CSA, often involving severe force, with many experiencing penetrative sex. These men are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected anal intercourse, highlighting the need for targeted HIV prevention strategies for this vulnerable group. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly men who have experienced childhood sexual abuse.

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This study explored how a chemical called trichostatin A (TSA) affects the process of making ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in cells. The researchers found that at higher doses of TSA, rRNA production increased significantly, with transcription levels rising as much as two to three times compared to untreated cells. They also discovered that certain proteins involved in modifying chromatin (the material that makes up chromosomes) play a role in this process, indicating that ribosomal RNA production is flexible and can be influenced by acetylation, which is a type of chemical change in histones (the proteins that help package DNA). Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and researchers working on gene regulation and potential treatments for diseases involving rRNA production.

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This study explored whether men who have sex with men (MSM) would use a home HIV test kit after being contacted through a phone survey. Out of 615 men, 80% agreed to receive the test kit, and 67% actually returned their samples for testing. Most of those who reported being HIV-positive were confirmed positive by the test, while only a very small number of those who had previously tested negative turned out to be positive (1.5%). Who this helps: This approach benefits MSM by making it easier for them to get tested for HIV in private and could lead to better understanding of HIV prevalence in larger communities.

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This study looked at how cells develop a certain old-looking shape (senescent morphology) when exposed to hydrogen peroxide. Researchers found that after just two hours of exposure, cells changed significantly within a week, driven by specific proteins that affect cell growth. Notably, when a viral gene called E7 was introduced, it stopped the changes usually caused by hydrogen peroxide, showing that certain proteins play a crucial role in this aging process. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying cell aging and could lead to insights for patients dealing with age-related diseases.

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This study looked at how well gay and bisexual men with HIV follow medical advice for treatment and prevention. Out of nearly 2,600 men surveyed, about one-third didn't know their HIV status, while about 75% of those who did know their HIV-positive status were following treatment recommendations. The study found that good communication with healthcare providers, along with positive beliefs about treatment effectiveness, were key factors in whether these men adhered to their treatment plans. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with HIV, healthcare providers, and public health efforts aimed at improving treatment and prevention strategies.

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Researchers studied an HIV prevention program aimed at reducing risky sexual behavior among African-American gay and bisexual men. They found that participants who attended three sessions of the program significantly decreased their unprotected anal intercourse from 46% to 20% after one year and maintained that reduction at 18 months. In contrast, those who attended just one session saw only a slight decrease, while the control group showed no significant change. Who this helps: This benefits African-American gay and bisexual men at risk for HIV.

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The study looked at how thirst and a hormone called arginine vasopressin respond to drinking water or receiving a sodium solution in younger people (average age 27) compared to older people (average age 72). Researchers found that both groups experienced a lot of thirst and changes in blood composition after consuming water or sodium, but older adults felt thirst differently and had a quicker increase in vasopressin levels when their blood saltiness rose. This matters because understanding these age-related differences can help improve hydration strategies for older adults. Who this helps: This helps older patients and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how often older Americans (aged 50 and up) engage in behaviors that put them at risk for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. It found that about 10% of older people have at least one risk factor for HIV, but very few use condoms or get tested for HIV; specifically, at-risk older adults are six times less likely to use condoms and five times less likely to get tested compared to younger at-risk individuals in their 20s. This is important because even though HIV affects older populations, many still do not take necessary precautions to protect themselves. Who this helps: This information benefits older patients and healthcare providers working to improve awareness and prevention of HIV among older adults.