MARWAN G. FAKIH, MD

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This research paper looks at the hippocampus, a brain area important for learning and memory, and how it relates to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study found that problems in the hippocampus, including its size and connections with other brain regions, are linked to key autism symptoms. Specifically, changes were noted in areas of the hippocampus, and genetic mutations were identified that affect social memory and brain communication, increasing the severity of autism traits. Understanding these issues is crucial for finding better treatments for ASD. Who this helps: This helps patients with autism and their families, as well as researchers and doctors looking for effective therapies.

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This study looked at how different chemotherapy treatments affect survival rates in patients with appendiceal cancer that has spread to the abdomen. It found that after surgery and heated chemotherapy (HIPEC), patients who received additional standard chemotherapy had a three-year survival rate of 46.3%, while those who only had HIPEC and no extra chemotherapy had a higher rate of 58.4%. The research indicates that adding chemotherapy after surgery and HIPEC does not significantly improve survival, suggesting that not all patients need this extra treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors make better treatment decisions for patients with appendiceal cancer.

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This study looked at a new treatment combining magrolimab with a standard chemotherapy regimen for patients with advanced colorectal cancer that couldn't be surgically removed. While this combination was found to be safe, it didn't significantly improve how long patients lived without their cancer worsening: those receiving magrolimab had a median time of 6.2 months without progression compared to 6.7 months for those who only received standard treatment. Additionally, patients taking magrolimab experienced more severe side effects (72.7% versus 52.4%). Who this helps: This information is important for doctors and patients exploring treatment options for metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study focused on patients with a specific type of advanced colorectal cancer (microsatellite-high metastatic colorectal cancer) who were treated with immunotherapy. Researchers looked at whether stopping the treatment early, after less than two years, would affect their survival compared to those who continued treatment longer. They found that 91.7% of patients who stopped early did not see their cancer worsen after a median follow-up of 32 months, and survival rates were similar between those who stopped early and those who continued longer. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with MSI-H metastatic colorectal cancer and their doctors when making treatment decisions.

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This study investigated a method called transrectal oocyte retrieval (TROR) for women who have never given birth and want to preserve their fertility. Researchers looked at 105 women who underwent this procedure and found that there was a strong connection between the hormone levels (AMH) and the number of eggs retrieved; higher hormone levels led to more eggs collected (0.83 correlation). The procedure had no complications, making it a safe alternative to the traditional transvaginal method for women who cannot use that approach. Who this helps: This benefits virginal women looking to preserve their fertility for future use.

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This study compared two treatment combinations for patients with a specific type of advanced colorectal cancer that is both wild-type and HER2-positive: one combination was trastuzumab and pertuzumab, and the other was cetuximab and irinotecan. The researchers found that the average time before the cancer worsened was similar for both groups, around 4.7 months for trastuzumab plus pertuzumab and 3.7 months for cetuximab plus irinotecan; however, patients with a higher number of HER2 gene copies had better results with trastuzumab and pertuzumab. This is important because it shows a potential new, safer treatment option for patients who may not respond as well to standard therapies. Who this helps: This helps patients with HER2-positive metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at how well a new combination treatment using trifluridine/tipiracil and bevacizumab works for patients with advanced colorectal cancer that hasn't responded to other treatments. It found that patients receiving this combination therapy experienced a longer time before their quality of life and overall health status worsened compared to those getting only trifluridine/tipiracil. Specifically, those on the combination treatment had a better quality of life and health status for longer, which is important because it can lead to better outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer.

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The EXONERATE study explored how a simple blood test, called an exosome-based liquid biopsy, could predict how well patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) would respond to treatments with drugs called cetuximab or panitumumab. The researchers found that in patients with left-sided mCRC, those identified as high-risk by the biopsy had a median progression-free survival (the time patients lived without their cancer worsening) of just 9.5 months, compared to 18.5 months for those not classified as high-risk. Likewise, in right-sided patients, 80.8% were high-risk and had a median progression-free survival of only 8.6 months, versus 41.2 months for low-risk patients. Who this helps: This research helps patients and doctors better understand treatment options and outcomes for metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at a man in his 60s who had a loose piece of cartilage in his knee that pressed on a nerve, leading to a condition called foot drop, which made it difficult for him to lift his foot. After doctors conducted tests, they removed the loose body and were pleased to see his leg function improve significantly, allowing him to walk normally again. This case is important because it's the first of its kind showing how this specific problem can affect mobility, helping doctors recognize and treat similar issues in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients with knee problems related to nerve compression.

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This study looked at how a patient's sex influences the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in treating metastatic colorectal cancer that has specific genetic features (microsatellite instability-high or MSI-H). Researchers found that male patients with certain mutations had worse outcomes; for instance, they had a progression-free survival rate of only 23.9% and an overall survival rate of 41.8% after three years with monotherapy, while adding another treatment improved these rates. This information is important because it shows that sex and genetic factors can affect treatment responses, which could lead to more personalized care strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with MSI-H colorectal cancer, by informing treatment decisions.

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This study looks at a 70-year-old man with advanced right-sided colorectal cancer that had not responded to previous treatments. After trying several therapies without success, he received a combination of chemotherapy and a targeted treatment called panitumumab and had a remarkable response: his tumor shrank significantly, and his symptoms improved after just one treatment cycle. This is important because it shows that some patients with right-sided colorectal cancer might respond to anti-EGFR therapy, contrary to previous beliefs that these cases are mostly resistant to such treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with right-sided colorectal cancer who may have limited treatment options.

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This study looked at the quality of different drinking water sources in Lebanon, including bottled, tap, and spring water, by testing 200 samples from five regions. The results showed that all sources had high levels of phosphates (over 1.35 mg/L), and harmful bacteria, like total and fecal coliforms, were found everywhere, indicating that no source was clean. This is important because contaminated water increases the risk of waterborne illnesses for everyone in these areas. Who this helps: This helps patients and the general public who rely on safe drinking water.

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This study examined why some embryos tested with a technique called PGT-A do not provide results. Researchers analyzed data from 177 patients and found that the quality or characteristics of the embryos did not significantly affect the chances of getting a "no result." Instead, it was discovered that having more embryos available for testing increased the likelihood of inconclusive results, highlighting that the procedure itself and the sample quality are important factors. Who this helps: This information benefits patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and doctors performing genetic testing on embryos.

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The CodeBreaK 300 study looked at how well a treatment combining sotorasib and panitumumab worked for patients with a specific type of metastatic colorectal cancer that does not respond to standard chemotherapy. After following 160 patients for about 14 months, those taking the higher dose of sotorasib and panitumumab had a better response rate (30.2%) than those receiving standard treatments (1.9%), but the difference in overall survival wasn't statistically significant. This study suggests that the combination treatment could be a good option for improving outcomes in these patients. Who this helps: Patients with G12C-mutated chemorefractory metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This paper outlines the need for stronger infection prevention and control (IPC) programs in healthcare facilities. The authors emphasize that these programs should be well-integrated into the facility's operations and be led by experienced professionals, recommending the involvement of both doctors and infection control specialists. Effective IPC programs are crucial for minimizing the risks of infections in healthcare settings. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving safety in hospitals and clinics.

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This study looked at whether adding a drug called retifanlimab to standard chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel) would help patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal that can't be surgically removed. The researchers found that patients who received retifanlimab along with chemotherapy had a median progression-free survival of 9.3 months, compared to 7.4 months for those who received a placebo instead, meaning the treatment helped delay disease progression. Although there were more serious side effects in the group receiving retifanlimab, the findings suggest it could become the new standard treatment for these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal.

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This study looked at how common amebiasis, an infection caused by a parasite, is among children in South Lebanon and identified factors that increase the risk of getting it. Researchers found that 25% of the 180 children tested had the infection, with unsafe water sources and farming practices being major contributors. This information highlights the urgent need to improve water safety to protect children from this serious health threat. Who this helps: This helps children in South Lebanon and their families by informing efforts to improve water safety and health awareness.

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This study looked at patients with a specific type of advanced colorectal cancer, known as dMMR/MSI-high metastatic colorectal cancer, to understand the effects of a mutation called BRAF V600E when treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Out of 909 patients, 345 had this mutation, and while overall they did not have shorter survival times than those without the mutation, those who started treatment with ICIs did show a higher risk of their cancer worsening after six months (20% vs. 11%). Thus, combining different cancer treatments early on may improve outcomes for patients with this mutation. Who this helps: This helps patients with dMMR/MSI-high metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at how effective a combination treatment of trifluridine/tipiracil and bevacizumab was for patients with colorectal cancer that didn't respond to other therapies. The researchers found that 48% of patients on the combined treatment experienced tumor shrinkage, compared to just 21% for those taking only trifluridine/tipiracil. Patients who saw early shrinkage with the combination treatment also had a longer time before their tumors started to grow again—3.8 months compared to 2.1 months for the other group. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have already tried other treatments without success.

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This study looked at the water quality of the Hasbani River and the drinking water in Hasbayya, Lebanon, finding that all samples taken from the area were contaminated with harmful bacteria and parasites. Specifically, some water samples had high levels of bacteria and unsafe iron levels, making the water unfit for drinking. This is important because it means local residents are using water that could make them sick. Who this helps: This helps patients and families living in Hasbayya who need clean drinking water.

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This study looked at the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to predict cancer recurrence and how well treatments work in 795 patients with early-stage colon cancer who had surgery. It found that patients with detectable ctDNA after surgery had a significantly higher risk of cancer coming back, with those who were ctDNA-positive being nearly ten times more likely to experience a recurrence. The research indicates that monitoring ctDNA could help tailor patient follow-up and treatment plans to improve outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with colon cancer by providing insights into their risk of recurrence and treatment options.

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This study looked at how well a new treatment combination of sotorasib and panitumumab helps patients with a type of advanced colorectal cancer that is difficult to treat. The findings showed that patients taking this combination had less fatigue and pain, and reported a better overall quality of life compared to those receiving standard therapies. Specifically, the sotorasib plus panitumumab group showed improvements of 0.89 points in fatigue and 1.45 points in pain, along with significant boosts in quality of life scores after 9 weeks. Who this helps: This helps patients with KRAS-mutated chemorefractory metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This study examined how healthcare systems can improve their ability to manage the use of antibiotics effectively, a practice known as antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). The researchers highlighted Ascension's AMS program, which uses eight key strategies, such as creating clear guidelines and encouraging teamwork among different healthcare professionals. The program successfully provided standardized guidelines and improved decision-making using data tools, which helps reduce antibiotic resistance and improve patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients by ensuring they receive the right treatment for infections while minimizing the risk of drug resistance.

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This study examined how adding a medication called GnRH agonist, during the luteal phase for women undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET), impacts the chances of a live birth and miscarriage. Researchers looked at 140 FET cycles, with 66 using the GnRH agonist and 74 not using it. They found that the group using the GnRH agonist had a higher implantation rate (61.6% vs. 48.4%) and a slightly higher live birth rate (60.6% vs. 47.3%), but the increase in live births wasn't statistically significant, and the miscarriage rates were similar between the two groups. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing frozen embryo transfers.

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This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of a new combination treatment of zanzalintinib and atezolizumab versus the current standard drug, regorafenib, for patients with hard-to-treat colorectal cancer. Researchers found that patients receiving the new combination lived about 1.5 months longer on average (10.9 months versus 9.4 months) compared to those on regorafenib. This is important because it offers a new, non-chemotherapy option that could help improve survival for patients with this challenging cancer type. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced colorectal cancer who need better treatment options.

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This study looked at two methods for managing nighttime urinary incontinence in women: the PureWick system and the Hollister Female Urinary Pouch. The results showed that both systems were effective, with a urine capture rate of about 91% for PureWick and 88% for Hollister, and minimal skin irritation for both (scores of 0.02 and 0.16 respectively). PureWick was also rated as more comfortable and easier to use, which is important for improving quality of life and sleep for women facing this issue. Who this helps: This helps women dealing with nighttime urinary incontinence.

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This study looked at managing side effects in patients with advanced colorectal cancer who are receiving a combination treatment of trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) and bevacizumab. Researchers found that common side effects include low white blood cell counts, anemia, nausea, diarrhea, and high blood pressure, and they developed guidelines to help doctors manage these issues effectively. This is important because it can improve the overall care and quality of life for patients undergoing this treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and their doctors.

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This study focused on a 59-year-old woman with a mechanical aortic valve who mistakenly switched from her prescribed blood thinner, acenocoumarol, to rivaroxaban due to its unavailability. It was confirmed that she needed acenocoumarol to prevent blood clots, as the mechanical valve requires careful management to avoid complications. When treated properly, her blood-thinning levels were adjusted to the safe range, highlighting the importance of education for patients about their medications. Who this helps: This helps patients with mechanical heart valves and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the combination of two drugs, nintedanib and capecitabine, for patients with advanced colorectal cancer that did not respond to prior treatments. Out of 36 patients evaluated, 42% remained stable and did not see their cancer progress after 18 weeks, which is better than expected based on previous treatments. Patients lived an average of 8.9 months, and while some experienced serious side effects like fatigue and dehydration, the treatment was generally well tolerated. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with hard-to-treat colorectal cancer.

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This study focused on a specific type of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) that has mutations in the POLE and POLD1 genes, which affect the cancer's ability to repair its DNA. Researchers found that patients with these mutations had a much higher response rate to immune checkpoint inhibitors (89% compared to 54% for other types of mCRC) and enjoyed significantly longer periods without disease progression and better overall survival after treatment. These findings are crucial because they indicate that patients with POLE/POLD1-deficient mCRC may benefit more from certain immunotherapies than those with other genetic forms of mCRC. Who this helps: This helps patients with POLE or POLD1-deficient metastatic colorectal cancer.

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This research paper looks at treatments for colorectal cancer that has a KRAS G12C mutation, which is a common change in cancer cells that makes them grow uncontrollably. It found that just using KRAS blockers alone wasn't very effective, but combining these blockers with another type of drug (EGFR blockers) showed more promise—though challenges remain, such as resistance from the cancer cells to these treatments. This matters because it highlights a new and potentially more effective approach to treating a tough form of colorectal cancer, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that has the KRAS G12C mutation.

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This study focused on the safety of combining a liver cancer treatment called transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with various systemic cancer therapies, like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Researchers found that for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, some chemotherapies need to be given at lower doses when used with TARE, and certain targeted therapies should be avoided for four weeks before the TARE procedure. This research is important because it fills a gap in knowledge regarding safe treatment combinations for liver cancer, helping doctors make better decisions for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors in choosing safer treatment options.

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The SUNLIGHT study examined the effects of a combination treatment of trifluridine/tipiracil and bevacizumab on patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that had not responded to previous therapies. Results showed that patients receiving both drugs lived a median of 10.8 months, compared to 7.5 months for those on trifluridine/tipiracil alone. The combination therapy also helped delay cancer worsening and maintained patients' physical abilities longer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have exhausted other treatment options.

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This study explored a new method of delivering chemotherapy directly to the abdomen of patients with biliary cancer that has spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneal metastases). Researchers tested a treatment combining a new spray method called PIPAC with a standard chemotherapy regimen and focused on how safe this treatment is. The results are important because finding safer and more effective treatments for these patients could lead to better outcomes, as the standard treatments have uncertain benefits for this group. Who this helps: This helps patients with biliary cancer and peritoneal metastases.

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This study looked at a new way to treat difficult cases of colorectal and appendiceal cancer using a method called PIPAC, which delivers chemotherapy directly into the abdomen. The results showed that patients who received PIPAC had more "good days" (181 days out of the hospital in 6 months) compared to those receiving traditional therapy (131 days). Additionally, patients treated with PIPAC had a longer overall survival (11.3 months versus 5.1 months) and experienced fewer hospital stays, all without a decline in quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with advanced colorectal and appendiceal cancer.

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This study examined how the location of cancer spread affects the response to checkpoint inhibitors in patients with a specific type of colorectal cancer known as MSI-high (microsatellite instability-high). Researchers found that patients with cancer spreading to the peritoneum (the lining of the abdomen) had a lower response rate to treatment and shorter survival compared to those without such spread. However, those with liver metastases responded well to treatment, with a response rate of 58%, particularly if they had fewer than five liver lesions. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating patients with metastatic colorectal cancer by providing insights on treatment responses based on disease spread.

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This research paper looked at the effectiveness of combining two treatments, trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) and bevacizumab (BEV), for patients with advanced colorectal cancer who can't undergo intensive chemotherapy. The findings from the SOLSTICE trial showed that while this combination did not work better than another treatment option (capecitabine plus bevacizumab), it provided similar benefits in terms of maintaining quality of life and survival rates, making it a viable alternative. This matters because it gives more options to patients who may not tolerate traditional treatments well. Who this helps: This helps patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer who are not candidates for intensive chemotherapy.

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This study looked at how the shape of sperm affects the chances of getting pregnant after a procedure called intra-uterine insemination (IUI). Out of over 1,000 IUI cycles, about 15% resulted in a pregnancy, and sperm shape did not significantly change these chances; for instance, couples with normal sperm shape had a 16% chance, while those with severe abnormalities had only a 10% chance. This is important because it shows that even if a man's sperm isn't perfectly shaped, it doesn't mean couples should avoid trying IUI, as sperm shape alone is not a reliable predictor of pregnancy success. Who this helps: This information benefits couples undergoing fertility treatments, especially those concerned about sperm quality.

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This study focused on how to define important treatment outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Researchers found that, since 2014, new treatments have been developed, but most clinical trials have not met the standards set by expert groups regarding improvements in survival and quality of life. Only one trial, known as the SUNLIGHT trial, met all these key standards while also showing manageable side effects and better quality of life compared to a different treatment approach. Who this helps: This benefits patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer and their doctors as it sets clearer expectations for treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at how a specific genetic variation (rs3804099) in Lebanese children relates to a type of infection called amebiasis. Researchers found that children with the rare CC genetic pattern had over three times the risk of getting amebiasis compared to those without it. Understanding this link could help in identifying which children are more vulnerable to this infection, leading to better prevention and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with children, particularly in Lebanon.

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This study looked at a combination treatment of regorafenib, ipilimumab, and nivolumab for patients with advanced colorectal cancer that hasn't spread to the liver and has not responded to other treatments. Out of 22 patients treated, about 36% showed a positive response, with a median survival rate of roughly 27.5 months. Some patients experienced long-lasting benefits, with three remaining cancer-free for over 18 months after finishing treatment. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients with refractory colorectal cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how monitoring circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) could help detect cancer recurrence in patients with colorectal cancer who had surgery to remove their tumors. Researchers followed 184 patients for about 26 months and found that only 1.6% of those monitored via ctDNA showed long-term benefits from the test compared to standard imaging methods. This is important because it indicates that simply adding ctDNA testing to regular scans didn't significantly improve patient outcomes and more research is needed to understand its value. Who this helps: Patients with colorectal cancer and their doctors.

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This study reports on a 16-year-old basketball player who developed a blood clot in his leg, known as deep venous thrombosis (DVT), after surgery for a broken leg. Despite having few known risk factors for blood clots, he experienced sudden leg pain and fever, which led to the DVT being diagnosed. Quick treatment with blood thinners helped him recover well, but the case highlights how hard it can be to predict DVTs in young athletes after surgery and stresses the need for better guidelines to prevent this serious condition. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and healthcare providers taking care of young athletes after surgery.

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This study looked at the safety of two cancer treatments, trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) and bevacizumab, for patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have had previous treatments or are receiving treatment for the first time. Out of 669 patients involved, 86.8% experienced severe side effects in the first-line study compared to 72.4% in the later-line study, with common issues being low white blood cell counts and low red blood cell counts. Understanding these side effects helps doctors manage treatment better and ensures that even older patients or those with more health issues can safely receive these therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced colorectal cancer and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied the combination of pembrolizumab, an immune therapy drug, with two different chemotherapy regimens for patients with a type of colorectal cancer that is resistant to standard therapies. They found that 61% of previously untreated patients (31 participants) responded positively to the treatment, while only 25% of those who had been treated before (32 participants) had similar results. This matters because it shows that this new treatment approach could be effective for patients facing limited options and has a manageable safety profile. Who this helps: This benefits patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, especially those who have not responded to standard treatments.