DR. STEVEN HARDING MOSS, M.D.

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This research looked at how policies affect the participation of pregnant women in medical studies. It found that 76% of countries with specific policies assess risks before including pregnant women, while in the US, 96% of top research institutions also use similar risk-based criteria. Changing these policies to promote inclusion instead of exclusion is important for better understanding health issues affecting pregnant women and improving their care. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and healthcare providers by ensuring more inclusive research that leads to better medical care.

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This study looked at a genetic change called mosaic loss of chromosome Y (mLOY) in patients with pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a rare lung disease. The researchers found that while mLOY is present in PF patients, its impact on the disease is minimal, meaning it doesn't significantly influence the severity or progression of PF. Instead, mLOY is more closely related to aging and shorter telomeres, which are protective ends of chromosomes, indicating that telomere shortening might play a role in developing both mLOY and PF. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers understand genetic factors in pulmonary fibrosis, guiding better patient care and treatment strategies.

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This study looked at how some malaria parasites in East Africa are becoming less responsive to key treatments, specifically the drugs artemisinin and lumefantrine. Researchers found that certain genetic changes in these parasites make them less susceptible; for instance, among 39 parasite samples tested, six with the least response to lumefantrine came from travelers returning from Uganda. This is important because it highlights a rising resistance, which may make standard malaria treatments less effective, potentially leading to more severe illness. Who this helps: This helps patients with malaria, especially those in or traveling to areas of East Africa.

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This study focused on improving the understanding of malaria cases in the UK that have unclear origins, known as cryptic malaria cases. By using rapid whole genome sequencing, researchers analyzed samples from nine individuals and identified specific types of malaria along with drug resistance markers, which can affect treatment. This information is crucial for tracking the spread of malaria, enhancing public health responses, and preventing future outbreaks. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and healthcare providers managing malaria cases.

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This study looked at how well adolescents can maintain their balance under different conditions by measuring the time it takes for them to correct their posture when standing still. The researchers found that on average, the balance scores were consistent, meaning one test was sufficient to assess balance, with moderate reliability scores noted. However, balance was generally more difficult when participants couldn’t see or stood on a soft surface. Who this helps: This information benefits healthcare providers working with adolescents who need to assess balance and postural control.

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This study analyzed genetic information from nearly 17,600 malaria parasite samples from 39 countries to understand how the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, evolves and adapts, particularly concerning drug resistance. The research found specific patterns of genetic changes linked to resistance to treatments like artemisinin, with notable variations between regions. For instance, samples from Vietnam and Brazil showed significant signs of recent adaptation to local drug pressures. This information is crucial for tracking how malaria evolves and may help in developing better strategies to combat the disease. Who this helps: This helps doctors and public health officials in effectively managing and treating malaria.

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This study looked at how well doctors followed a risk assessment model (RAM) for preventing blood clots in hospitalized patients. It found that only 30% of doctors stuck to the recommendations at a high rate, with those who did often feeling more confident in their decisions and able to document care better. In contrast, doctors with low adherence were more focused on concerns like missing important risk factors and work disruptions caused by using the model. Who this helps: This benefits doctors by providing clarity on how to better adopt risk assessment tools, ultimately improving patient care.

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Researchers studied how having pharmacists involved in patient care affects the time it takes to get approvals for a type of medication known as glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), which help with weight loss. They found that with pharmacist support, the median time to get a decision on these approvals was about 19.87 hours, significantly faster than the national average of 72 hours. This matters because quicker approvals mean patients can start their treatment sooner, improving their access to important weight loss medications. Who this helps: This helps patients who need GLP-1 RAs for weight management.

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This study focused on improving the way teams review fatal overdoses by creating a user-friendly dashboard that combines data from various sources into one platform. Researchers found that the current review process is mentally demanding, with average workloads rated around 12.6 out of 15, and revealed that many users struggled with manual data handling and technology issues. The new dashboard prototype was rated positively, showing a high likelihood of adoption and a perceived usefulness score of about 3.61 out of 5, which can help teams work more efficiently to find ways to prevent future overdoses. Who this helps: This benefits overdose review teams and public health officials working to prevent overdose deaths.

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This study looked at how well professional women football players understand menstrual health. It found that development players scored an average of 5.4 out of 19 on a knowledge test, which was lower than the professional players’ average of 7.8 and the staff’s average of 9.1. None of the groups scored over 50%, indicating a need for better education about menstrual health in women's football. Who this helps: This benefits female athletes and their coaches by promoting better understanding and support for menstrual health.

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Researchers looked at how meetings between specialists for patients with spondyloarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease affected patient care in a UK hospital. They found that 97% of these meetings improved communication among the healthcare teams, and 57% led to immediate changes in treatment. Importantly, this collaboration helped avoid excessive drug use, potentially saving costs and improving patient safety. Who this helps: This benefits patients with these conditions by providing them with better and safer treatment options.

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Researchers studied the effectiveness of adding a drug called ivermectin to a standard malaria treatment in the Bijagos Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau. They found that adding ivermectin did not significantly lower the number of malaria infections compared to using the standard treatment alone; in the control group, 5.05% had malaria compared to 6.64% in the group that received ivermectin. This matters because it shows that, in this case, ivermectin does not provide extra benefits for controlling malaria, helping guide future treatment options. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and researchers by providing clarity on malaria treatment strategies.

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This study looked at the experiences of medical students from low-income backgrounds to understand how their basic needs affect their education and well-being. Researchers interviewed 42 students and found that many faced significant challenges, including food insecurity, poor mental health, unreliable transportation, and difficulty connecting with peers. These unmet needs can lead to lower academic performance and high dropout rates, highlighting the importance of providing supportive resources to help these students succeed in medical school. Who this helps: This benefits low-income medical students by identifying specific challenges they face and suggesting ways that schools can better support them.

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This study examined the role of a protein called LRG1 in patients undergoing cancer treatments like stem cell transplantation and CAR-T cell therapy. Researchers found that patients with severe inflammatory reactions showed higher levels of LRG1, and removing this protein in experimental models led to less severe symptoms and complications. These findings suggest that targeting LRG1 could improve patient outcomes by reducing harmful side effects after these cancer therapies. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients receiving stem cell and CAR-T cell treatments.

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Researchers developed a new method to create advanced tissue scaffolds using 3D bioprinting with collagen, which can imitate real organs and support cell growth. They created special structures called CHIPS that can allow fluids to flow through them and have various designs, improving how nutrients and molecules move to support healthy cells. This innovation can help in studying diseases and developing new therapies by mimicking full organ functions more accurately. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing organ transplants and doctors researching disease treatments.

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The study looked at various health advisory groups set up by the Canadian government and assessed why their advice often isn’t used. Researchers found that many members believed their recommendations were ignored, and proposed that these bodies should aim to build partnerships when creating health policies, include clear plans for how these policies will be enacted, and track the outcomes of their suggestions. This matters because improving how health policies are developed and implemented can lead to a better health system for everyone. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how using a risk assessment model (RAM) for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitals affected the prescription of preventive treatments. Out of over 131,000 patient visits, doctors prescribed VTE prevention less frequently when they used the RAM—44% of patients received prophylaxis with RAM versus 73% without. Understanding VTE risk better helps ensure that only patients who truly need preventive measures get them, which can avoid unnecessary treatment and side effects. Who this helps: This benefits patients by reducing unnecessary medication, particularly low-risk individuals.

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This study looked at how lung transplant patients participate in and progress through a rehabilitation program combining in-person and home-based exercise. It found that only 48% of the 166 participants were highly engaged in the program, achieving at least three exercise sessions per week. However, patients showed significant improvements in walking distances and strength over the program, with walking distance nearly doubling for both in-person (from 536 to 1073 meters) and home rehab (from 968 to 1556 meters), indicating the effectiveness of this hybrid approach. Who this helps: This helps lung transplant patients improve their recovery and physical fitness.

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This study looked at ways to prevent a serious eye infection called endophthalmitis, which can cause vision loss after eye procedures. Researchers tested various combinations of antibiotics and discovered three effective pairs: cefuroxime with azithromycin, azithromycin with tobramycin, and cefuroxime with tobramycin. These combinations were found to completely eliminate bacteria responsible for the infection, outperforming the commonly used antibiotic moxifloxacin. Who this helps: Patients undergoing eye procedures.

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This study looked at how two types of weeds, blackgrass and Italian ryegrass, have adapted their growth patterns to fit better with spring farming practices. Researchers found that blackgrass seeds from spring-cropped fields had a much higher germination rate (86%) in darkness compared to those from autumn-cropped fields (46%). This matters because understanding these adaptations can help farmers develop better strategies to manage weeds, making their crops more successful. Who this helps: This helps farmers by providing insights that can lead to more effective weed management.

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This study looked at how some mosquitoes in Puerto Rico resist certain insecticides used to control them. Researchers found that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes from five regions showed a high level of resistance to two common insecticides, deltamethrin and malathion, with five specific mutations linked to this resistance. This is important because it helps inform local vector control efforts, ensuring they use methods that are effective against these resistant mosquitoes. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and mosquito control programs.

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This study looked at how different movement behaviors—like exercise, sitting time, and sleep—affect cognitive skills in college students. Researchers found that students who were physically active and got enough sleep performed better on tasks requiring working memory, while those with higher body mass index (BMI) showed worse inhibition skills. Specifically, students with higher BMI scored lower in cognitive tests compared to their healthier weight peers. This matters because maintaining healthy movement habits and managing weight can improve mental performance in young adults. Who this helps: This helps college students and health professionals focused on student well-being.

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This study looks at how acute heart attacks (specifically STEMI) are diagnosed and treated in rural and remote areas, where immediate access to advanced medical procedures might not be available. It found that many doctors still rely on a treatment method called thrombolysis, which helps dissolve blood clots, especially when the preferred procedure (primary PCI) can't be done quickly. This matters because one-third of Australia's population lives in these areas, so understanding how to manage heart attacks effectively in such locations can save lives. Who this helps: This benefits patients in rural and remote areas, as well as the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how quickly and easily healthcare workers can prepare two different systems for a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. It found that healthcare practitioners were able to reconstitute the vaccine using the Act-O-Vial system in 88 seconds on average, compared to 119 seconds with the other system; 92% of participants preferred the Act-O-Vial because they found it faster and safer. These findings show that the Act-O-Vial system could be more efficient and reduce errors in vaccine preparation, making it a better option for healthcare settings. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and ultimately the patients who receive the vaccine.

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This study looked at how a Virtual Reality program combined with physical activity affected movement and thinking skills in preschool children at Head Start programs. After six weeks, the children took an average of 1,105 steps during 30-minute sessions and showed an increase in vigorous activity, although their overall cognitive skills did not significantly improve right away. These findings suggest that using virtual reality in physical play could help young children be more active and may even support their thinking skills over time. Who this helps: This benefits preschool children and their teachers by promoting more active play.

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This study looked at the genetic differences in Anopheles darlingi mosquitoes in Rondônia, Brazil, which are the main carriers of malaria in that region. Researchers found over 1.5 million small genetic variations among the mosquitoes, showing clear differences between wild and lab-bred populations. While they didn't find known markers for insecticide resistance, they identified specific genes that may be related to how mosquitoes resist these chemicals, which is crucial for controlling malaria. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and malaria researchers develop better strategies for managing mosquito populations and controlling malaria transmission.

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This research examined how certain mosquitoes in the Democratic Republic of Congo have developed resistance to commonly used insecticides for malaria prevention. The study found various genetic mutations linked to this resistance, including some newly identified ones, indicating significant regional differences in resistance patterns. Understanding these mutations is crucial as more than 58% of insecticide-treated nets distributed in 2023 contain a chemical meant to enhance efficacy, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring to ensure effective malaria control. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and malaria prevention programs.

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This study looked at a program started by the CDC in 2021 to help improve COVID-19 vaccination rates among racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. The program worked with local organizations to provide tailored messages and support, resulting in better access and confidence in vaccines. By focusing on community engagement and targeted training, the program aims to continue improving vaccination efforts and health equity in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those from minority racial and ethnic groups.

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This study looked at Anopheles mosquitoes on the Bijagós Archipelago in Guinea-Bissau to understand how resistant they are to insecticides used for controlling malaria. Researchers found specific genetic mutations related to insecticide resistance in these mosquitoes, with 12.2% showing the vgsc L995F mutation and 6.2% showing N1570Y. Understanding these mutations is crucial because they indicate potential challenges for malaria control efforts that rely on insecticide-treated nets, especially in areas like Bubaque Island, where resistance is more common. Who this helps: This information benefits public health officials and mosquito control programs.

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Researchers studied a new method of 3D printing using collagen to create tiny structures that mimic human tissues, which can help better model diseases and test drugs. They found that their printed structures, called CHIPS, support cell movement and can form complex networks, making them more similar to real tissues. This is important because it allows for more accurate research and testing, potentially leading to better treatments. Who this helps: Patients and doctors involved in disease research and drug development.

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This study looked at how we define 'success' when patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) use the low-FODMAP diet, a popular treatment for managing symptoms. Researchers found that while many patients report improvements, the methods used to measure these improvements in clinical trials aren't as strict as those used for medications. This inconsistency makes it hard for patients and doctors to understand what a true improvement means, especially since no trials have used the tougher standards seen in drug studies. Who this helps: This helps patients with IBS and their doctors by clarifying what to expect from the low-FODMAP diet.

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This study looked at seals along the Scottish and Liverpool Bay coasts to see how many antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) they carried, since these genes can indicate pollution from human activities. Researchers found 30 different ARGs in the seals, with the highest levels (29 genes) found in grey seals on the Isle of May during breeding season. This matters because it shows that seals can help scientists track antibiotic resistance in the environment, which is important for preserving public health. Who this helps: This benefits wildlife conservationists, environmental health researchers, and public health officials.

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This research paper looked at how to better identify fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in people involved in the criminal justice system. The study reviewed 52 different sources and found 11 screening tools and 38 characteristics that could help identify individuals with FASD. It emphasized the importance of screening and better support for these individuals, as both legal and medical professionals agree on the necessity of such measures. Who this helps: This benefits patients with FASD and the professionals who work with them in legal settings.

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This study looked at how exercise levels and unhealthy behaviors, like screen time and smoking, relate to depression in college students. Researchers found that men who used e-cigarettes and women who spent a lot of time in front of screens reported more depressive symptoms. Additionally, women experienced more depressive symptoms overall than men, and were less physically active. This information is important because it highlights the need to focus on increasing physical activity and reducing risky behaviors to improve mental health, especially in students who are overweight or obese. Who this helps: This helps college students struggling with mental health and health professionals looking to support them.

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This study looked at how a certain genetic change called mosaic loss of chromosome Y (mLOY) affects the risk and severity of pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a type of lung disease. Researchers found that while mLOY is present in PF patients, it does not appear to be a major cause of the disease, as it is more closely linked to age and shorter telomeres (the protective ends of chromosomes). Specifically, they found a significant relationship where mLOY is associated with older age (P = 0.00021) and shorter telomeres (P = 0.0081), but not the severity of PF (P = 0.0032). Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients by improving understanding of the genetic factors related to pulmonary fibrosis.

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This study looked at a type of mosquito called Anopheles melas, which could spread malaria in the Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau. Researchers sequenced the entire genome of 30 individual mosquitoes and found that they did not have the common genetic markers for insecticide resistance seen in related malaria-carrying mosquitoes, suggesting they might be more vulnerable to insecticides. Understanding the genetic makeup of these mosquitoes is important for managing malaria prevention efforts in the region. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and malaria prevention programs.

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This study examined how Anopheles mosquitoes, which spread malaria, are becoming resistant to deltamethrin, a common insecticide used on bed nets in the Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau. The researchers found that these mosquitoes have specific genetic changes related to this resistance, with four notable changes appearing in more than 5% of the population. This is important because understanding the resistance helps improve mosquito control strategies, ultimately protecting people from malaria. Who this helps: This helps patients in malaria-affected areas, as well as public health officials and mosquito control programs.

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This study looks at how health checks specifically designed for autistic adults can improve their healthcare. The research involves 200 autistic adults to see how many new health needs are identified and addressed after nine months, while also examining the costs and overall effectiveness of these health checks. If successful, this program could help autistic people access the care they need earlier, improving their health outcomes and reducing the inequality they face in healthcare. Who this helps: This benefits autistic adults and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how different reproductive factors, like the number of children a woman has (parity) and the age at which she has her first child, affect mammographic density (MD), which is related to breast cancer risk. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 11,000 women and found that having more children is linked to lower MD, while having a child later in life is associated with higher MD. Understanding these relationships is important because they may help explain how reproductive factors influence breast cancer risk. Who this helps: Women concerned about breast cancer and healthcare providers.

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This study examined how different gut bacteria in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affect their response to a low FODMAP diet, which is known to help reduce symptoms. Out of 56 people with IBS, half had a specific type of gut bacteria (IBS-P), which responded better to the diet, showing a significant decrease in pain and symptoms compared to another group (IBS-H) that resembled healthy individuals. The findings indicate that understanding a person's gut bacteria could help tailor dietary treatments, improving outcomes for those likely to benefit most. Who this helps: Patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

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This study looked at how being overweight or obese affects young children's movement skills and thinking abilities. Researchers found that preschoolers who were overweight or obese scored significantly lower on cognitive tests, with performance differences ranging from 0.93 to 1.43 on various assessments, while both weight groups showed similar skills in physical movement. These findings highlight the need to help children maintain a healthy weight, as it is important for their overall brain development and readiness for school. Who this helps: Parents and educators of preschoolers.

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This study looked at how outdoor temperatures in Georgia affect the number of snakebites. Researchers found that for every 1°C increase in temperature, the chances of getting bitten by a venomous snake went up by 5.6%, while non-venomous snakebites increased by 5.8%. This is important because it helps us understand how climate can influence snakebite incidents, particularly in a biodiverse state like Georgia, allowing for better prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of snakebites and healthcare providers in emergency departments.

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This research looked into how the yellow fever vaccine could be transmitted through organ transplants and blood transfusions in the United States. In 2021, four transplant patients developed brain inflammation, and all had received organs from a donor who had recently received a yellow fever vaccine. The study found that the virus from the vaccine was present in the organ recipients, and it confirmed that the donor had a blood transfusion from someone vaccinated just before donating, highlighting the need for precautions after vaccination. Who this helps: This information helps medical professionals and patients by reinforcing safety guidelines regarding blood donations after receiving certain vaccines.

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This study looked at how well the COVID-19 vaccine based on the Omicron variants and the seasonal flu vaccine work when given together to healthcare workers in Israel during the winter of 2022-2023. The results showed no negative effects on the effectiveness of either vaccine when given at the same time, with significant increases in protective antibodies: COVID-19 antibody levels rose notably in those who received both vaccines, and the flu vaccine also triggered higher antibody levels against specific flu strains in those who received both. This finding supports giving both vaccinations together, making it easier for people to stay protected during flu and COVID-19 seasons. Who this helps: This helps patients getting vaccinated, healthcare workers, and public health officials.

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This study looked at how air pollution affects pregnancy outcomes in Kansas from 2000 to 2015. It found that higher exposure to ozone during the second and third trimesters was linked to an increased risk of preterm birth and lower birth weight. Additionally, nitrogen dioxide exposure during the first trimester was associated with a higher chance of gestational diabetes, while ozone exposure in the first trimester was connected to gestational hypertension. This matters because reducing air pollution could improve birth outcomes and overall maternal health. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women and their babies.